Born in Argentina, Vilas was raised in Mar del Plata, playing his first tour event in 1968. Vilas arrived on the professional scene in 1970, two years after the Open Era in which he was the second player to win more than 900 matches, capturing 62 ATP championships and four major singles titles: the Australian Open in 1978 and 1979 and the French and US Opens, in 1977.

Vilas's patience and focus were unrivalled, and combined with his fitness, grace, and heavy return, he was certainly a formidable opponent to meet on the court.

1977 Winning Streak
Whilst Vilas's dominance was well established, 1977 saw his remarkable winning streaks reach new heights. He embarked on a 46-match winning streak during the year, showcasing his unparalleled skill and mental fortitude.

This, in part, was down to his new coach, Ion Tiriac, who improved his focus, enhanced his serve, and encouraged him to attack the net more often.

During the year, Vilas set all-time records for most titles (17) and wins (145) and amassed a huge 57 consecutive wins on clay, a testament to his mastery of the surface.

21 singles titles but no No.1 ranking
Vilas won 21 singles titles, including 16 ATP titles in the 1977 season, including the French Open and the US Open. Despite these successes, Vilas was controversially never ranked by the ATP as world No. 1.

He was instead ranked world No. 2, behind Jimmy Connors, who won 8 singles titles, as the rankings at the time were based on the average of a player's results. Despite this official ranking, Vilas is generally considered the 'real No. 1' for the year.

The end of the streak
Both his all-surface and clay court winning streaks came to an end in October 1977 in the final of the Raquette d'Or tournament, where he faced Ilie Năstase.

After losing the first two sets, Vilas retired in protest against Năstase's use of a spaghetti racquet, which was set to be banned by the ITF (International Tennis Federation) the day after the match.

Despite this setback, Vilas went on to win 28 consecutive matches, claiming titles at tournaments in Tehran, Bogotá, Santiago, Buenos Aires (on clay), and Johannesburg (on hard courts). His winning streak was eventually halted in the Masters semi-finals by Björn Borg.

Grand Slam Triumphs
Vilas clinched four major singles titles during his career. He emerged victorious at the French Open in 1977, triumphing over formidable opponent Brian Gottfried and at the US Open, winning against Jimmy Connors. He also claimed back-to-back Australian Open titles in 1978 and 1979, solidifying his status as one of tennis's elite.

Davis Cup Success
Vilas played in the Davis Cup for Argentina from 1970 to 1984, helping the team earn three huge wins in 1977, 1980, and 1983 over the favourite US team. In 1981, Vilas and José Luis Clerc led Argentina to their first-ever final against the US, which they ultimately lost.

Vilas was known for his smooth moves on the court, with a heavy, looping topspin drive that would force opponents into endless rallies. He was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1991, retiring in 1992 and will certainly leave a lasting legacy on the world of tennis.