Nadal says Djokovic is the best men’s Tennis player ever

Rafael Nadal has declared Novak Djokovic the best men’s tennis player of all time. The rivalry between Nadal, Djokovic, and Roger Federer has shaped tennis for many years, with the three players dominating Grand Slam titles.

As Nadal prepares to retire next month, he shared his thoughts in an interview with AS. He praised Djokovic, saying, “He’s a player who has managed to maintain a very high level and improve every year. The numbers show he’s the best, which means his tennis has also been the best.”

Nadal noted that Djokovic has faced fewer injuries, allowing him to stay in top form longer than anyone else. “That’s why he’s the best, and he’s earned it,” Nadal added.

As of 2024, Djokovic has won 24 Grand Slam titles, more than any other man. He surpassed Nadal’s 22 titles and Federer’s 20 by winning the 2023 French Open, a tournament Nadal has historically excelled in.

While many fans argue that Nadal is the Greatest of All Time (GOAT), especially on clay courts, others support Federer, who set the standard for the sport. Nadal acknowledged Federer as his biggest rival, saying, “I’ve played Djokovic more than anyone else, but for me, my biggest rival was Federer.”

He explained that when he started his career, Federer was already a top player. “In the prime years of my career, it was Roger and Novak,” Nadal stated. “But in those early years, which are so impactful, it was always Roger.”

Nadal will retire after the Davis Cup Final 8 in Malaga, starting on November 19, when Spain faces the Netherlands in the quarter-finals.