Nadal Names Djokovic as ‘Best Player in History’ Due to 24 Grand Slam Titles
In an interview this week, Rafael Nadal paid his long-time rival Novak Djokovic perhaps the highest compliment possible, calling the Serbian the greatest tennis player ever.
Nadal’s reasoning? Djokovic’s record 24 Grand Slam singles titles.
“In the end, the one who has the most Grand Slams will be the best player in history – and at the moment it’s Novak,” Nadal stated. “He has won the most Grand Slams, which is the most important thing.”
The Spaniard’s comments come after Djokovic surpassed him by winning the 2024 Australian Open, taking his career major tally to 24 – one ahead of Nadal’s 23.
Despite their epic on-court rivalry and polarizing public images, Nadal insists there is great respect between the two champions.
“In terms of our relationship, it has always been correct,” Nadal said. “Sometimes the image he projects is worse than he really is.”
“If I consider him a good person or not, the truth is it doesn’t matter. I consider him the best in history due to his results and achievements on the tennis court.”
The 37-year-old Nadal knows the window may be closing on his chance to catch Djokovic’s Grand Slam record. But he remains determined to keep chasing history.
“Ambition is not and has never been a problem for me,” Nadal stated. “Competition is why I continue playing tennis.”
Nadal and Djokovic have pushed each other to greatness over their storied careers. And now, the Spaniard is crediting his long-time rival as the most accomplished player men’s tennis has ever seen.
