Monica Seles’s career, marked by exceptional athleticism and a two-handed playing style, revolutionized women’s tennis. Her dominance in the early 1990s, including eight Grand Slam singles titles before the age of 20, shifted the landscape of the sport, inspiring a generation of players and altering training methodologies. The tragic on-court attack she suffered in 1993 further highlighted the vulnerability of athletes and led to increased security measures at sporting events.
Her resilience and eventual return to professional tennis after the attack became a symbol of courage and determination, transcending the sport itself. Seles’s influence extends beyond her impressive record. Her aggressive baseline game and mental fortitude changed how the game was played, pushing the boundaries of women’s tennis and paving the way for future power players. The increased focus on player safety following the attack significantly impacted the organization and security protocols of professional tournaments, contributing to a safer environment for athletes.