Novak Djokovic is one of the greatest tennis players of all time but according to Patrick McEnroe, he's the greatest in some aspects.
The American former player talked about Djokovic on his podcast following the Serbian's latest triumph at Roland Garros. It was a glorious day for Djokovic's career, a huge step towards solidifying himself as the greatest tennis player of all time.
Even if you don't consider him that, he's likely going to end up with the greatest tennis career of all time which is incredible. He dismissed the GOAT mantle following his triumph admitting that he leaves those discussions to others. Some of those others include tennis pundits like Patrick McEnroe who has no doubts anymore.
Now he's got 23 [Grand Slam titles], it's not all about that for me. He's got 23, the other is 22 [for Rafael Nadal] and 20 for Roger [Federer]. It's about longevity, it's about the surfaces, he's got at least three now at every Major with his third French Open. It’s his record against those other two great guys.
That is one part of the story with the other being able to play his best when it matters most the other thing that impresses McEnroe. While being human like the US Open match against Medvedev proved, Djokovic still managed to produce his best level when it matters the most.
It's also what I see is his incredible ability to play his best when it matters most. You know, he's beaten them [other players] more than they beat him. To beat him, you got to be at your absolute best. He never plays a bad match in a big spot.
Heading into Wimbledon, McEnroe has no doubts about Djokovic being the favourite for the event. Already the GOAT, McEnroe thinks that we'll likely see another crowning moment for Djokovic as he'll get his 24th grand slam trophy.
I put him as a greatest [player in men's tennis] at 23 but now you've got Wimbledon, where he's going to be a significant favorite. Now that he’s won the French, that just gives him even more confidence. He won’t play any warm-up tournaments. He’ll show up there. He'll just work his way into the tournament. There's a handful of guys, I've said this for the last couple years and it's still true, there's only a handful of guys that can even play with them on grass.
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