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Martin Verkerk, finalist at Roland Garros 2003. Photo: gettyimages

The most unexpected Grand Slam champions and finalists in tennis history

We review the biggest surprises in the history of Grand Slams since the beginning of the Open Era in 1968. We selected three champions and three finalists that no one expected.

The day Spain conquered Wimbledon, this was the greatest feat of Manolo Santana. Source: Getty

Can a Spaniard Win on Grass?

It is the question that was never heard on the circuit until Manolo Santana proved it was worth asking. It has been 60 years since his feat at Wimbledon.

This is Arthur Fery, the great surprise of Wimbledon. Source: Getty

This is Arthur Fery, the 'millionaire without privileges' who is breaking the bank at Wimbledon

Born in France to French parents but British at heart: Arthur's story includes a stint at university, a millionaire father, and a strong work ethic.

Yevgeny Kafelnikov, the last man who won the Grand Slam. Source: Getty

Yevgeny Kafelnikov, the last man to win a Grand Slam

30 years ago, the Russian tennis player left Roland Garros with arms full: champion in singles and champion in the doubles draw. It has never happened again.

History of the Faulconbridge Cup, the book that tells the origins of tennis in Valencia. Source: Punto de Break

Who was Alfred Faulconbridge?

David Castelló has written the first book that contains the origins of the Faulconbridge Cup, the reason for its foundation, and the complete list of champions: "This work is an act of historical justice".

Interview with Joan Gisbert and Fernando Murciego from Barcelona. Source: Punto de Break.

"In my time, there were no managers that controlled us, we spoke with whomever we pleased"

We interviewed Joan Gisbert from the Conde de Godó, one of the great pioneers of Spanish tennis: "Whether Alcaraz reaches the Big3 will depend on injuries."

Jimmy Connors in heated discussion with chair umpire Jeremy Shales. Source: Getty

The day Connors collapsed with Lendl... and with the chair umpire

Jimmy Connors was one of the players who suffered the most from Ivan Lendl's on-court solidity. 40 years ago, at the Miami tournament, frustration led to his disqualification.

David Ferrer, the man who prevented the 'Rafa Slam'. Source: Getty

The man who prevented the 'Rafa Slam'

Back in 2011, after winning in Paris, London, and New York, Rafa Nadal lands in Melbourne with a unique opportunity. Until a good friend snatched it away.

Jelena Dokic and her tense relationship with the Australian public. Source: Getty

The abyss of Jelena Dokic

The former Australian player lived in Melbourne the toughest moment of her professional career. She wouldn't heal that wound until eight seasons had passed.

Novak Djokovic Returns, the Master of Grand Slam Titles. Source: Getty

The Grand Slam master returns

When Novak Djokovic steps onto the Rod Laver Arena this Monday to face Pedro Martínez, he will have conquered the last record that was missing for him to have in major territory.

Nicola Pietrangeli and Manolo Santana, friends forever. Source: Getty

Last night there was a party in the sky

Nicola Pietrangeli bid us farewell this Monday at the age of 92, news that broke the hearts of tennis fans for hours. Thankfully, his great friend Manuel was waiting for him above.

Spain in its first Davis Cup final, in 1965. Source: Getty

Spain's first 'approach' to the Davis Cup

It's been 60 years since Spain's first Davis Cup final back in 1965. It was an easy loss against Australia but marked the first step of our rise to the top.