Casper Ruud has close links to Rafael Nadal, but the Norwegian still thinks Novak Djokovic is the best player in tennis history.
Most fans, analysts, and former players believe Djokovic, Nadal, and Roger Federer are the three greatest players ever. The trio dominated the sport for years in an era widely regarded as the best the sport has seen.
After years of hard work, Djokovic is statistically the most successful player ever. He secured an Olympic gold medal at Roland Garros this year, meaning he has won every significant title in tennis.
The Serbian could have claimed even more titles if it had not been for Nadal in particular. Djokovic recently discussed how he would have won more French Open crowns if Nadal was not there to stop him repeatedly.
Although the 24-time Grand Slam champion lost to Nadal several times at Roland Garros, he is also the only one to beat him twice at the venue. He achieved this at the 2015 French Open and at this year's Olympics.
Djokovic was very proud to beat Nadal at his most successful venue at the Olympics. Being the only man to beat the 14-time French Open winner at Roland-Garros is another reason why some think Djokovic has proven himself to be the best.
Casper Ruud came through Nadal's academy, and the three-time Grand Slam runner-up also idolized the 22-time major champion when he was growing up. That would make it tempting for him to call Nadal the greatest ever.
However, Ruud gave an honest assessment in a recent interview. He says that Djokovic winning all the big titles in the sport means he should be considered the greatest player ever, and he was happy to see him win the Olympic gold that had eluded him until this year.
"Djokovic is a tough nut to crack and certainly deserves to be considered the best of all time. There is no doubt about everything he has won. I often say that it is not possible to ‘round off’ tennis like a video game when there is nothing else to achieve, but in terms of merits and tournament victories, Djokovic has won all the titles possible. It was fantastic to see him win Olympic gold this season."
It is tough to argue with Ruud's logic. Nadal and Federer were special players in their own right and probably more universally loved worldwide, but Djokovic's achievements have eclipsed them.
Federer retired two years ago at the Laver Cup, but Nadal is still trying to return to the court despite numerous injury problems. He has not competed in singles since that defeat to Djokovic at the Olympics.
The Spaniard undoubtedly knows that matching Djokovic's statistical achievements is impossible. Nadal wants to come back because he loves the sport and to retire fittingly.
His retirement will not come at the Laver Cup after Nadal withdrew from the tournament. Whether the tennis legend can return to a level good enough to challenge at big tournaments again is unclear, but he has not given up hope of returning.
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