Top 5 underrated tennis players who deserved more recognition

Tennis has produced many legends who dominate headlines, but there are also several incredible players who never received the level of fame they truly deserved. They competed with heart, discipline, and skill, and although their achievements were impressive, they remained overshadowed by more popular names. 

This article highlights five such underrated tennis players who made a strong impact on the sport but never got the recognition they earned.

1. David Ferrer

David Ferrer is one of the hardest-working players the tennis world has ever seen. He relied on exceptional fitness, footwork, and mental toughness rather than flashy strokes or powerful serves. Ferrer reached a career-high ranking of World No. 3 and made the final of the French Open in 2013. 

For over a decade, he was consistently among the top players, reaching the later stages of almost every major tournament. Despite facing the Big Four at their peak, he still earned many victories and remained a constant threat. His relentless fighting spirit made him a respected figure, even though he never won a Grand Slam title.

2. Stan Wawrinka 

Stan Wawrinka is a three-time Grand Slam champion, yet he is still underrated because he played in the same era as Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, and Murray. With one of the most beautiful one-handed backhands in tennis history, Wawrinka had the rare ability to raise his level dramatically in big matches. 

On his best days, he could overpower even the greatest champions. His Grand Slam victories came against top-ranked opponents, proving his ability to perform under extreme pressure. Although he achieved huge success, he is often not mentioned in conversations about the all-time greats, making him one of the most underappreciated champions of modern tennis.

3. Kei Nishikori

Kei Nishikori made history as the first Asian male player to reach a Grand Slam singles final when he reached the US Open final in 2014. His style was built on speed, clean ball-striking, and sharp court coverage, making him one of the toughest baseline players of his generation. 

Nishikori climbed as high as World No. 4 and spent many years inside the top ten. Injuries unfortunately stopped him from achieving even more, but his influence on tennis in Asia is massive. He inspired millions of young players and proved that athletes from the region can succeed on the biggest stages. Despite this, he is rarely given the appreciation he deserves.

4. Tomas Berdych

Tomas Berdych was known for his powerful groundstrokes, strong serve, and ability to challenge the very best players. He reached the Wimbledon final in 2010 and achieved a career-high ranking of World No. 4. Berdych consistently stayed in the top ten for several years, reaching multiple Grand Slam semifinals and quarterfinals. 

He also played a crucial role in helping the Czech Republic win the Davis Cup. Even though he had the tools to defeat top players, he often remained out of the spotlight because he never won a Grand Slam title. His consistency and longevity make him one of the most underrated players of his era.

5. Gael Monfils

Gael Monfils is famous for his breathtaking athleticism, unbelievable court coverage, and entertaining playing style. But behind the showmanship is a highly skilled tennis player with real achievements. He reached a career-high ranking of World No. 6 and won numerous ATP titles throughout his career. 

Monfils reached the semifinals at both the French Open and the US Open and recorded more than 500 career match wins. Even in his mid-thirties, he continued setting records, proving his longevity and talent. Although fans love him, he often doesn’t get the same recognition as other top players because he prioritizes entertainment along with results. Still, his skill, flair, and personality make him one of the most unforgettable and underrated players in tennis history.

These five players may not have always claimed the spotlight, but their contributions to tennis are undeniable. They challenged the best, delivered inspiring performances, and earned their place among the most respected athletes in the sport. Whether through pure determination, incredible athleticism, or remarkable consistency, each of them deserved far more recognition than they received. Their stories remind us that tennis greatness is not only measured by titles, but also by heart, resilience, and passion for the game.

Cover Credits - ATP Tour