Argentine legend with the most clay-court titles in history and a record-breaking career spanning decades.
Guillermo Vilas was born on 17 August 1952 in Mar del Plata, Argentina. He turned professional in 1969 and became one of the great clay-court champions of the 1970s and 1980s. He won the 1977 Roland Garros and US Open, the 1978 Australian Open and the 1979 Australian Open. He holds the record for the longest winning streak in professional tennis history — 46 consecutive matches — set in 1977. Vilas was known for his tireless running, heavy topspin and remarkable consistency. In 2015-16 there was a historical revision suggesting he may have been No. 1 in the world during the 1970s but the distinction was never officially recognised.
Winning 46 consecutive matches and capturing both the French Open and US Open titles during his phenomenal 1977 season.
He holds the record for the longest winning streak in professional tennis history — 46 consecutive wins in 1977.
Did You Know?How They Played
Vilas was renowned as one of the greatest clay court players of all time, possessing exceptional baseline consistency and powerful topspin groundstrokes. His left-handed playing style featured heavy topspin on both forehand and backhand, allowing him to construct points methodically from the baseline. He had tremendous physical endurance and mental fortitude, often outlasting opponents in grueling clay court battles.
Lasting Impact
Vilas paved the way for future generations of South American tennis players and remains an icon in Argentine sports history. His success helped elevate the profile of tennis throughout Latin America and inspired countless players from the region.
Career Honours
- Roland Garros 1977
- US Open 1977
- Australian Open 1978
- Australian Open 1979