Ranking Top 10 ATP players yet to win a Major: Richard Gasquet

Last month, I counted down my picks for the top ten active WTA players who have not won a singles major and assessed the likelihood of them becoming a Grand Slam champion. I named former world number one Karolina Pliskova as the best active female player yet to win a major. Now, it’s time to count down the men. Number 10 on my list is Richard Gasquet.

Earlier this season, French veteran Richard Gasquet won his 600th career win, becoming one of only four active players to reach that mark. Gasquet turned pro in 2002 and still has the ability to challenge the best in the world.

Gasquet has won 16 titles on the ATP tour during his career, including a title this season. Gasquet has reached three semifinals at the majors, has qualified for the ATP Finals on two occasions, and has made three finals at ATP 1000 events. Also a capable doubles player, Gasquet won the 2004 French Open mixed doubles title and won a bronze medal in men’s doubles at the 2012 Olympics.

Richard Gasquet among the top ten ATP players who haven’t won a Grand Slam

When you think of Richard Gasquet, you think usually think of one shot: his glorious one-handed backhand. Gasquet can do anything with his backhand, but it is at its most beautiful when he decides to rip it. It may not be the biggest weapon in the game, but it has been the most reliable shot in his impressive career.

Likelihood to win a major: Highly unlikely

Gasquet is unfortunately in the late, late stages of his career. He was unfortunate to be playing in the Big Four era, and he did not seem to have enough weapons in his arsenal to get over the hump at the majors.

At least Gasquet doesn’t have Roger Federer to contend with and Rafael Nadal is aging. Still, he has to potentially face Novak Djokovic. Also, Carlos Alcaraz, so that’s not good.