Before Open Era, best player

Who do you choose? And why?

Come on! Nobody?

I chose Laver because he was a champion in singles, doubles, and mixed. I think Jack Kramer and Pancho Gonzales were probably better strategists and thinkers but weren't physically fit as Laver. His only weakness was that he tried to overpower two-handed backhanders instead of using his quickness more. But that doesn't detract him as being the best. Another, is that he did a better job of being a marked man than those two. I think he did a better job than later champions with the exception of Federer in singles.

My sentimental vote is for Budge, in reality it sure ain't far wrong. Budge's entire career was pre Open era, whilst Lavers crossed over a bit.

My sentimental vote is for Budge, in reality it sure ain't far wrong. Budge's entire career was pre Open era, whilst Lavers crossed over a bit.

I kind of like Frank Sedgeman and Tony Trabert.

I think I've met five, maybe six of the above...and would lean to Gonzales, or Tilden. (Just on the basis of what I've read.--)

As to players of the above, whom I'd seen play on TV: Laver, Rosewall, Gonzales (maybe, I don't quite remember :confused:)

Budge pwns

http://www.thoughtequity.com/video/clip/1617554_005.do

I pick Tilden. Laver is the GOAT, but before the Open era Tilden & Rosewall & Budge were more consistent

Thanks for coming and share your opinions!

Thanks for coming and share your opinions!

Rosewall. From 1960 till about 1966 Ken was the top pro. Laver joined the tour in 62 or 63. By 1966 Rod probably reached his peak, while Rosewall nearly 32, was just past his. Laver never would have won his first Slam, as great an achievement as it was, had there had been Open Tennis. Gonzalez certainly could be considered the greatest too. Touvh call, but I still give a slight edge to "Muscles" Rosewall.