Top Five Fastest Serves in Grand Slam History on the ATP Tour

The US Open is one of the most esteemed tournaments in tennis, known for its rich traditions and enthralling atmosphere. Over the years, legendary players like Roger Federer, Pete Sampras, and Jimmy Connors have mastered the courts at Flushing Meadows, each winning five titles. Federer’s victories are especially notable, as he clinched five sequential titles. On the other hand, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, the other two members of the famed “Big 3,” have each won the US Open four times.

While these legends are celebrated for their mastery of the game, none of them make it to the list of players with the fastest serves in US Open history. The final Grand Slam of the season often sees players pushing the boundaries of physical and technical performance, and serving speed is no exception. American players, specifically, have set astonishing records for intense serves at Flushing Meadows.

Without diversion, let’s get into the top five fastest serves in US Open history, representing the players who have pushed the limits of speed and power:

5. Sam Groth – 147 MPH (236.57 KMH)

Sam Groth, an Australian tennis player, is popularly known for holding the record for the fastest serve in the history of tennis, which he set during the 2012 Busan Open Challenger tournament. His name was naturally expected to feature in this list.

At the 2014 US Open, Groth faced the iconic Roger Federer in the second round. During the match, Groth unlocked a serve clocked at 147 MPH. In spite of the immense speed, Federer, a five-time US Open champion, returned the serve with ease, as though it were a regular baseline shot. Federer went on to win the match in straight sets. Interestingly, Federer is the only player on this list to have successfully returned such a high-speed serve, featuring his unmatched skill and composure under pressure.

4. Taylor Dent – 148 MPH (238.18 KMH)

Taylor Dent, a former World No. 21, represented flashes of talent during his career, but injuries and disparity prevented him from fully realizing his possibility. His best performance at the US Open came in 2003 when he reached the fourth round.

That same year, Dent carved his name in the record books with a serve clocked at 148 MPH during the tournament. Even though his career didn’t quite reach the heights many expected, this serving record remains as an evidence to his raw power and ability to make an impact on the big stage.

3. Ivo Karlovic – 149 MPH (239.79 KMH)

Ivo Karlovic, the elevated Croatian known for his enormous serve, is a name that has become synonymous with power in tennis. His serve reached a remarkable speed of 149 MPH at the US Open, earning him a spot among the fastest servers in the tournament’s history.

Known as “Dr. Ivo” for his ability to rule matches with his serve, Karlovic’s career highlights include multiple ATP titles and a uniform presence among the top servers in the sport. His ability to maintain such speed and precision has made him one of the most feared opponents on fast surfaces like hard courts.

2. Ben Shelton – 149 MPH (239.79 KMH)

The young and dynamic Ben Shelton announced himself on the world stage during the 2024 US Open with a stunning performance. In the Round of 16, Shelton fired a serve at 149 MPH, equaling Karlovic’s speed and securing the second-fastest serve in US Open history.

Playing against fellow American Tommy Paul, Shelton dominated with his powerful serves, hitting 13 aces and saving 11 checkpoints. Shelton ultimately won the match in four sets, representing not just his serving prowess but also his ability to handle high-pressure situations. At just 21 years old, Shelton showcases the future of American tennis and continues to impress with his enthralling serve speeds.

1. Andy Roddick – 152 MPH (244.62 KMH)

At the top of the list is Andy Roddick, one of the greatest servers in tennis history. The 2003 US Open champion holds the record for the fastest serve at Flushing Meadows, clocked at an astonishing 152 MPH.

Roddick achieved this feat in 2004 during a match against Rafael Nadal in the second round. The serve was so fast that Nadal, a player known for his outstanding return game, could only stand still and watch the ball go by. Roddick won the match in straight sets, and his exceptional serve remains unparalleled at the US Open.

Conclusion

The US Open has always been a stage for records and notable performances, and the fastest serves in its history highlight the power and precision needed to flourish in modern tennis. From Sam Groth’s blistering speed to Andy Roddick’s unmatched record, these players have left their mark on the tournament.

While tennis is about much more than just speed, these serves remind us of the sheer strength and skill that define the sport. Who knows what the future holds? As technology and training continue to evolve, it’s only a matter of time before these records are challenged once again.

Cover Credits - Tennis.com