Former World No. 1 Ilie Nastase believes Rafael Nadal has an advantage over Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in the GOAT debate as he now owns the all-time Grand Slam record. Nadal, 35, won a record-breaking 21st place.
Grand Slam title after beating Daniil Medvedev in Australian Open final. Djokovic didn’t get a chance to compete at the Australian Open after Australian authorities canceled his visa.
On the other hand, Federer, who underwent knee surgery in August, wasn’t ready to return to action at Melbourne Park. Djokovic and Federer are in second place with 20 Grand Slams each.
“Clearly, if the question is who has more great titles, the answer is Nadal,” Nastase told Marca. “When we talk about the best of all time, there are other factors.
Roger Federer has an impressive talent… But there is no doubt that Rafa has 21 Grand Slams and Federer and Djokovic don’t.”
Nadal broke the record in stunning fashion
World no.
Nadal saved those break points and it was the start of his tragic comeback. “It was one of the most emotional matches of my career,” said Nadal during the award ceremony. “It was just an honor to share the place with Daniil.
It is amazing. To be honest, a month and a half ago I wasn’t sure if I could play tennis again on the tour. But today I stand here before all of you with this trophy in front of me. You are just amazing thank you so much.” Nadal is now the top favorite to win the French Open and take his Grand Slam number to 22.
Djokovic is expected to be allowed to play the French Open while Federer will skip the second Grand Slam of the season.
