Was Bill Tilden really the number 1 for 1922 and 1923?

[timnz]

It seems that Bill Tilden largely was ranked number 1 in 1922 by coasting on his 1921 achievements. Bill Johnson won Wimbledon and beat Tilden in 3 out of the 4 meetings they had. I know that Tilden didn't go to Wimbledon - but Johnson shouldn't be penalized because Tilden didn't show up. 1921 rankings should in no way influence 1922 rankings.

In 1923 Johnson won 2 Majors (Wimbledon & the World Hard Court Championships) and Tilden only won 1 Major (the US Championships).

Tilden's 1921 was so shining it appears that tennis writers gave him a free ride in 1922 and 1923.

(Note: I know he was still very strong in 1922 and 1923 - but the top ranked guy? - let's discuss).

[Mustard]

Opinions seem divided about 1922. Tilden was generally considered to be better than Johnston or at least a tie, as he won the most important match between them, but Johnston did beat Tilden 3 out of 4 times that year. Cochet won both the WHCC and WCCC, but he was not considered to be as good as Tilden and Johnston.

As for 1923, Tilden was dominant in the US Championships, thrashing Johnston, the man who had won the WHCC and Wimbledon in Tilden's absence.

[kiki]

I agree since the 3 frenchmen and specially Cochet were not at Tilden level untiç some time later