Tennis legend labels Novak Djokovic the ‘best’, but Roger Federer the GOAT
Tennis great Mats Wilander believes Novak Djokovic is the “best of all time”, but explained why he feels Roger Federer is the “greatest” to ever play.
The seven-time Grand Slam champion argued Federer, who retired last year, “took Wimbledon to the next level” and “put tennis in everyone’s TV set.”
Federer won 20 Grand Slam titles during his illustrious career, including a men’s record of eight at Wimbledon, which he collected between 2003 and 2017.
The 41-year-old Swiss returned to Centre Court for the first time since playing his last career singles match there in 2021 to watch two opening round contests on Tuesday.
Djokovic secured his 23rd major crown to overtake Rafael Nadal by winning his third French Open title last month. The 36-year-old is now the sole leader in the men’s Grand Slam title race.
The Serbian is a heavy favourite to add to his major tally and equal Federer’s Wimbledon record at the ongoing 2023 Wimbledon Championships.
Speaking to Eurosport, Wilander discussed Federer’s impact at Wimbledon after his return to his most successful major tournament.
“Here at Wimbledon – this is where he made his mark. I think he took Wimbledon to the next level with the way he played on the court and the ambassador he is,” said the Swede.
“You know I don’t like the saying who is the GOAT, because ‘greatest of all time’ is one thing, but ‘best of all time’, we will give to Novak Djokovic these days. The ‘greatest of all time’, I like to give to Roger Federer because I think he put tennis in everyone’s TV set.
“It will be interesting to see what he (Federer) does with the rest of his life, is he going to be part of tennis in the way we are [in the media]? Is he going to be coaching?
“He has his management company and is involved in a clothing line, but I would love to hear him commentate just to hear what he has to say, it would be great.
“It was so sad when he decided to retire, that is the saddest moment I have witnessed in professional tennis. He is a great guy, so nice to everybody, a class act.”
Federer won five straight Wimbledon titles between 2003 and 2007, before adding further triumphs in 2009, 2012 and 2017. He holds an incredible 105-14 record from his 22 appearances at the tournament.
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