Karl Rove has been in politics in one form or another since his high school days. I don't know about being the best but he sure has been associated and involved with some influencial politicians over his career.
He took a GOP Congressional Majority and possession of the White House and in 6 years turned it into a absolute political minority.
The GOP victories in 2002 had more to do with the aftermath of the 09-11 attacks then anything Rove did.
His only claim to fame is winning 2 Presidential races by the skin of his teeth and being completely wrong in his forecasting before the 2006 and 2008 elections.
Sorry but I see no evidence of any real “genius” from Rove other then that at marketing his reputation