Maybe even none of the greatest tennis historians shall be entitled to decide who is considered as the best or most successful coach who ever lived. Yet, the most obvious method of resolving such an eternal debate may be based on the science reflecting exactness and clarity: the world of numbers.
BB = Bergelin-Borg
Between 1974 and 1981, the Lennart Bergelin – Bjorn Borg combo won 11 Grand Slam titles (6 French Open and 5 Wimbledon) of 16 Grand Slam finals becoming the first player-coach combination to claim more than 10 major titles in the Open-era. Under Bergelin’s coaching tenure:
Furthermore, as of today, Bergelin’s protege holds 2 remarkable streak-record of all-time; winning 41 consecutive sets at French Open (1979-1981) and being undefeated for 41 consecutive matches in Wimbledon (1976-1980). 2 days shorter than 30 years,between June 7, 1981 and June 5, 2011, Bergelin held the record as the winningest coach in the Grand Slam history (men’s single category) with 11 Grand Slam titles (6 French Open, 5 Wimbledon).
2N = (Toni & Rafa Nadal) 2nd to None
On June 5, 2011, when Rafael Nadal beat Roger Federer, Bergelin’s record was equalled by Rafa’s uncle and coach, Toni Nadal. Since June 9, 2013, when Rafael Nadal defeated David Ferrer in the final of Roland Garros in Paris, Toni Nadal took over the lead on the coaches’ rank list with 12 Grand Slam title. The same year, with his nephew’s victory at US Open, they added another Slam to their unparalleled collection, then in 2014, Rafa’s 9th Roland Garros championship solidified Toni’s top position with 14 Major titles ahead of Bergelin.
Rafa’s achievements under Toni:
Ps.: Rafa and Toni Nadal’s accomplishments are still counting…