The debate surrounding who is the greatest tennis player—Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, or Novak Djokovic—continues to polarize fans as current players weigh in on the conversation. With Federer having retired in 2022 after earning 20 Grand Slam titles and Nadal concluding his career at the end of last year with 22 Grand Slam victories, only Djokovic remains active, currently holding the record with 24 Grand Slam titles.
In a recent interview, world No. 14 Arthur Fils expressed his admiration for Federer, labeling him the best male player of the era. Despite being sidelined with a back injury that forced him to withdraw from the French Open, Fils highlighted Federer’s status in a ranking method when asked pointed questions about comparisons with other players. He unequivocally stated his preference: when comparing Federer with Carlos Alcaraz and Djokovic, Fils affirmed that Federer tops the list. His affection for Federer shines through, stating, “I love Roger.”
Fils also provided insights about his ongoing struggle with injuries, specifically mentioning a stress fracture that compelled him to withdraw after his gripping five-set match against Jaume Munar. Acknowledging the need for strategic decisions regarding his health, Fils emphasized the importance of prioritizing his long-term fitness by choosing to rest rather than risk further injury by competing.
This ongoing debate about the greatest of all time (GOAT) serves as a testament to the remarkable impact these three athletes have had on the sport, captivating fans and inspiring the next generation of players. The commitment to excellence and sportsmanship demonstrated by Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic highlights the legacy they all leave behind as they continue to reshape the landscape of professional tennis.
Such discussions not only celebrate the accomplishments of these tennis legends but also point toward a hopeful future for tennis, where emerging players like Fils are motivated to reach their full potential, inspired by the greats who have come before them.