He was world’s No.1, beat Pete Sampras, Roger Federer and Andre Agassi, and retired at the age of 32

Undoubtedly, one of the most influential tennis players in Latin America, especially in Brazil, is Gustavo Kuerten. Widely regarded as the best tennis player from this region, Kuerten made history as the second Latin American player to reach the world’s No. 1 ranking. He earned recognition for his victories over tennis legends like Roger Federer, Pete Sampras, and Andre Agassi—three of the most iconic players in the sport’s history.

Kuerten turned professional in 1995, and it quickly became clear that he was destined for greatness. Just two years after entering the pro circuit, he made waves by capturing his first Roland Garros title, an achievement that stunned reporters and the tennis world alike.

However, the immense fame and expectations that came with his success began to take their toll in 1998. Kuerten suffered a setback, losing to Marat Safin at Roland Garros. Even Brazilian journalists left France feeling disheartened by the defeat. The pressure he faced, which had been building from the outset of his career, wasn’t always the motivating force it was made out to be.

Despite this difficult setback, Kuerten remained determined. In 1999, he bounced back and broke into the ATP Top 5. That same year, he claimed two ATP Masters 1000 titles in Monte Carlo and Rome, bringing him closer to the No. 1 spot in the world.

Gustavo Kuerten of Brazil kisses the French Open Trophy after victory against Sergi Bruguera of Spain at Roland Garros Stadium in Paris, France.

In 2000, Kuerten achieved the pinnacle of his career by reaching the No. 1 ranking after winning Roland Garros, the ATP World Tour Finals, and the ATP Masters 1000 in Hamburg. Though he didn’t fare as well in the other Grand Slam events, failing to advance past the third round, his dominance on the clay courts cemented his place among tennis’ elite.

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Kuerten vs. Agassi

One of the players that he faced from the top 5 at that time was the American Agassi. With a 4-7 record, the Brazilian couldn’t beat in specific moments of his career Agassi, as there were multiple matchups between both tennis legends in the ATP World Tour.

However, the only final that Kuerten beat Agassi was in 2000, when the Brazilian became champions at Tennis Masters Cup, winning in three sets 6-4. Before that, in the same year, Kuerten defeated Agassi at Miami ATP Masters 1000 by 6-1; 6-4.

Kuerten vs. Federer

Despite the Suisse player was starting his career when he faced the Brazilian star, Kuerten had a difficult time with Federer. It was in 2002, when the two tennis legends faced at Hamburg ATP Masters 1000 in the quarterfinals. Federer beat 6-0; 1-6; 6-2 Kuerten, who already won that tournament in 2000.

The other two times they faced in a tournament were at 2004 Roland Garros and 2003 Miami ATP Masters 1000. They were in the same round of 32, in which Kuerten demonstrated his experience.

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Kuerten vs. Sampras

In three games they faced each other, Sampras had the lead with 2-1 record and the most important matchup between then was for the American. It happened at 2000 Miami ATP Masters 1000 in an intense match with 6-1; 6-7 (2); 7-6 (5); 7-6 (8).

The only game that Kuerten could beat Sampras was in 2000. At Tennis Masters Cup the Brazilian showed his best performance and defeated Pete in three sets: 6-7 (5); 6-3; 6-4. He became champion in that tournament after defeating Agassi in the final.

After 13 years playing in the World Tour, Kuerten retired at 32 years old. He recorded 20 titles according to the ATP, three of them in Roland Garros, won 358 games and lost 195, and won 9 titles in doubles. That career made him one of the best Latin American players in tennis history, and for some, the best of the best.