10-Time Grand Slam Winner Weighs in on Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic Debate
In the ongoing debate over the greatest tennis player of all time, a prominent voice has emerged in favor of Novak Djokovic. Patrick Mouratoglou, a well-respected coach and long-time mentor to Serena Williams, weighed in on the rivalry between Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal.
Debate Over Tennis Greatness
For over 15 years, Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic have dominated men’s tennis. Together, they have earned an impressive total of 66 Grand Slam titles. While Federer and Nadal retired in 2022 and 2024, respectively, Djokovic continues to compete actively, currently participating in the Australian Open.
Mouratoglou’s Perspective
Mouratoglou, who coached Williams to 10 Grand Slam victories, believes Djokovic deserves the title of the greatest tennis player. During his discussion on the High Performance podcast, he noted that while Djokovic might not possess certain strengths of his rivals, his mental toughness sets him apart.
- Djokovic’s meticulous attention to detail
- His unmatched professionalism
- Unwavering self-belief even when facing formidable opponents
Mouratoglou stated, “It’s not about talent or weapons. The mindset is everything.” He further emphasized Djokovic’s achievements, arguing that they outshine those of any other player in history.
Djokovic’s Rise in Tennis
Having made his breakthrough at the 2008 Australian Open, Djokovic ended a three-year streak dominated by Federer and Nadal. Mouratoglou reflected on Djokovic’s confidence during the early days of his career. Despite skepticism from fans and the media, Djokovic was determined to challenge his competitors.
Despite opinions varying among fans and experts, Mouratoglou maintained, “Djokovic is the greatest of all time.” His comments contribute significantly to the ongoing debate among tennis enthusiasts about who truly deserves the title of the ultimate champion.
As the tennis world watches Djokovic compete, the conversation surrounding his legacy continues to unfold. With each match, he adds another chapter to a storied career that could redefine greatness in the sport.