“For me, there’s no doubt that Djokovic is the best” : David Nalbandian explains why he thinks Novak Djokovic is the GOAT ahead of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal
The discussion about the GOAT of tennis is never-ending. Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal are widely considered the greatest tennis players of all time, and the GOAT debate has been a point of discussion over the last decade. Former Argentine tennis player David Nalbandian weighed his opinion, and believes that Novak Djokovic is the greatest of all time according to him.
He explained that in terms of numbers, records and titles won, Novak Djokovic is certainly a level above the likes of Nadal and Federer. The Serbian has claimed 24 Grand Slam titles in comparison to Nadal’ 22 and Federer’s 20 majors. However, Nalbandian also believes that Nadal and Federer meant more for tennis than did the Serbian.
“No doubt, Nole. For results, for numbers, and everything. You might like Roger and Rafa, who are a bit lower numerically, but they were symbolically much more for the people. It’s also a matter of taste. For me, there’s no doubt that Djokovic is the best,” said Nalbandian.
David Nalbandian played professional tennis from 2000-2013, and also finished as the runner-up at 2002 Wimbledon. He faced off against the likes of Nadal and Federer on multiple occasions in his playing career. Rafael Nadal retired last year at the 2024 Davis Cup, whereas, Roger Federer called it a day at the 2022 Laver Cup.
Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic continues to push himself at the highest stage. The Serbian is chasing his 25th Grand Slam title, which has eluded him since his US Open title in 2023. The Serbian has no intention of retiring any time soon, hinting that he would like to defend his gold medal at the LA 2028 Olympics.
