Rod Laver

Who is Rod Laver?

Rod Laver is a legendary Australian tennis player, widely regarded as one of the greatest in the history of the sport. He was ranked world No. 1 from 1964 to 1970 and is the only player in tennis history to achieve two calendar-year Grand Slams—first in 1962 and again in 1969. His career bridged both the amateur and Open Era of tennis.

Family, Marriage & Personal Life

Rod Laver was married to Mary Shelby Bensen on June 20, 1966, in California. Mary was a divorcee with three children from her previous marriage. The wedding was attended by fellow tennis greats like Ken Rosewall, Barry MacKay, Mal Anderson, and Lew Hoad.

Together, Rod and Mary had a son named Rick Laver. They lived in several residences across California. Their marriage lasted for 46 years until Mary’s passing on November 12, 2012.

Early Life & Background

Rod was born to Roy Laver and Melba Roffey in Queensland, Australia. He grew up in a supportive family alongside his siblings, Trevor, Bob, and Lois Laver. He developed a passion for tennis early in life and was trained by the renowned coach Harry Hopman.

Although he dropped out of school to focus on tennis, his dedication would lead to unmatched success on the global stage.

Career Highlights

Amateur Career (1956–1962)

• Laver made an early mark by winning the Wimbledon mixed doubles title in 1959.
• In 1960, he claimed his first major singles title at the Australian Championships.
• In 1961, he won his first Wimbledon singles title.
• In 1962, he achieved a historic calendar-year Grand Slam, winning all four major tournaments.

Professional Era (1963–1978)

• Turned pro in 1963 and joined stars like Ken Rosewall and Pancho Gonzales.
• Dominated tournaments like the US Pro Championships and Wembley Pro.
• Regained the world No. 1 ranking in 1965 and again in 1967, with wins across 19 tournaments.

Open Era Breakthrough (1968–1969)

• In 1968, he won Wimbledon, US Pro, and French Pro, claiming the top global ranking.
• In 1969, he repeated the incredible feat of a calendar-year Grand Slam.
• That year, he won 106 out of 132 matches, including prestigious titles like:
  • South African Open
  • Philadelphia US Pro Indoor
  • Wembley British Indoor

Later Years

• In the 1970s, Laver continued to compete, winning titles and contributing to Australia’s Davis Cup victory in 1973.
• His world ranking slipped in later years, and by 1976, he joined the World Team Tennis League before retiring from professional play.

Awards and Honors

• ABC Sportsman of the Year (Australia)
• International Tennis Hall of Fame Inductee – 1981
• Sport Australia Hall of Fame – Inducted in 1985, elevated to “Legend” in 2002
• Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne’s premier tennis stadium, is named in his honor
• Honored on the Australian $1 coin in 2022 as part of a commemorative series

Legacy and Influence

Rod Laver’s influence on tennis is monumental. With 200 singles titles, more than any other player in history, and two calendar-year Grand Slams, his name is synonymous with excellence. He inspired generations of tennis players, and his sportsmanship and achievements continue to be celebrated worldwide.