Margaret Smith Court is an Australian former professional tennis player who was born on July 16, 1942, in Albury, New South Wales. She is widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time. Court's full name is Margaret Jean Smith Court, and she later married and became known as Margaret Court.
Court's exceptional career spanned from the late 1960s to the early 1970s. She is most acclaimed for her remarkable success in Grand Slam tournaments, where she achieved an astonishing 64 titles. This impressive feat includes a record 24 singles titles, 19 doubles titles, and 21 mixed doubles titles, making her the most successful player in Grand Slam history. For this reason, Court is often referred to as the "Queen of the Grand Slam."
Court's playing style was characterized by her exceptional agility, great technique, and powerful strokes. She had a dominant serve and a formidable forehand, which helped her achieve unparalleled success on various surfaces. Her skill and versatility allowed her to adapt to different court conditions, making her a force to be reckoned with on grass, clay, and hard courts.
Outside of her playing career, Court later pursued a successful coaching and broadcasting career. Despite retiring in the early 1970s, her achievements and impact on the game of tennis have left an indelible mark. Court's contribution to the sport earned her numerous accolades, including induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1979.
However, it is important to note that Court's personal beliefs and controversial public statements regarding same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ rights have sparked significant controversy in recent years. Consequently, her contribution to the sport is often overshadowed by her polarizing views.
