Since the dawn of the Open Era in 1968, the US Open has stood as one of the toughest battlegrounds in tennis. It has been played on hard courts since 1978, making it a true test of speed, stamina, and shot-making. The US Open is not only a highlight of the tennis calendar but also one of the most-watched sporting events in the world.
7. Ivan Lendl – 3 Titles
- Years Won: 1985, 1986, 1987
- Nationality: Czech Republic
Ivan Lendl made the US Open finals for a record eight consecutive years from 1982 to 1989. In a similar heroic fashion, he won three consecutive US Open titles in 1985, 1986, and 1987.
6. John McEnroe – 4 Titles
- Years Won: 1979, 1980, 1981, 1984
- Nationality: United States of America
John McEnroe was Pablo Picasso using a tennis racquet instead of a paintbrush. McEnroe embodied the spirit of the US Open with his artistry and fiery temperament. He dominated his home turf, winning four titles during the early 1980s, making him one of the tournament’s most iconic champions.
5. Rafael Nadal – 4 Titles
- Years Won: 2010, 2013, 2017, 2019
- Nationality: Spain
Though more associated with clay, Nadal has proven equally formidable on the US Open hard courts. He is often regarded as one of the most decorated professional tennis players in the sport’s history. He holds a place alongside Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in the famous “Big Three”.
4. Novak Djokovic – 4 Titles
- Years Won: 2011, 2015, 2018, 2023
- Nationality: Serbia
Similar to Rafael Nadal, Djokovic was also a part of the famous “Big Three,” which collectively dominated men’s tennis for nearly two decades. His strong defense, unmatched stamina, and mental fortitude have helped him compete in New York well into his mid-30s.
3. Jimmy Connors – 5 Titles
- Years Won: 1974, 1976, 1978, 1982, 1983
- Nationality: United States of America
The fierce Jimmy Connors won eight major singles championships, which included a joint-record five US Opens. His five US Open titles were won across three different surfaces: grass, clay, and hard courts. He finished as the year-end No.1 five times in his career.
2. Pete Sampras – 5 Titles
- Years Won: 1990, 1993, 1995, 1996, 2002
- Nationality: United States of America
In a fairytale ending, Pete Sampras’ 2002 US Open victory was the final match of his 15-year career. Sampras’ thunderous serve and fearless net play made him nearly unstoppable in New York.
1. Roger Federer – 5 Titles
- Years Won: 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
- Nationality: Switzerland
Roger Federer’s inclusion in this list completes all the additions that form the “Big Three”. Federer not only won the US Open five times, but he achieved this feat in five consecutive years, highlighting his dominance in his peak years. He has cemented his place as one of the greatest champions in US Open history.
Conclusion
The US Open has produced some of tennis’ greatest moments, with these seven players standing out for their sustained brilliance in New York. Whether it was Federer’s record run, Sampras closing his career in style, or Djokovic and Nadal battling for modern dominance, each has added to the tournament’s legacy in their own way.
Written by: Thillai Ritvik
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