Novak Djokovic appears set to end the debate over who will go down in the history books as the greatest player of all time, but Stefanos Tsitsipas has a slightly different take on the long-running debate.
Djokovic’s 24th Grand Slam title in New York all but ensured he will end his career as the male player with the most titles, with his nearest rival Rafael Nadal sitting on 22 Grand Slam victory and retired Roger Federer returns to 20.
Nadal confirmed he does not know if he will play competitive tennis again as he battles injury issues and Djokovic looks set to add to his Grand Slam total as he continues to dominate the men’s game which is 35.
The numbers appear to prove that Djokovic is in a league of his own, but world No 5 Tsitsipas has always been a big fan of Federer and that stance is unlikely to change now.
The Greek star admitted that he was blessed to be part of Federer’s farewell party at the Laver Cup in London last year and he even slept with a tennis racket signed by his idol after the event.
Now he spoke Kathimerini that he still believes Federer made the greatest contribution to tennis as he pulled the sport into a golden era before being joined by Nadal and Djokovic.
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“He is undoubtedly the best, by the numbers. He breaks record after record,” said Djokovic when he was asked about Djokovic.
“He also has a thirst, even though he has nothing to prove. That’s how he’s wired.
“He was never happy; it looks like he is trying to prove something to someone. I don’t know what or who. He always seems to want a rematch. He had such a sparkle in his eye. “
When asked who has had the biggest impact on tennis, the answer from Tsitsipas was quick: “Federer, by a landslide.
“The sophistication and beauty that she brings to tennis, her magic on the court. I don’t think anyone else can match her.”
He also described Nadal as “the greatest fighter I’ve ever seen, and not just in tennis, but in any sport,” as he reflected on the best qualities of the ‘Big Three’ as we arrived at the point where the reflections of their legacy. will be formed.
Djokovic’s fans are quick to condemn Tsitsipas for suggesting anyone other than their man is the greatest player of all, yet this debate is often focused on other factors.
“There are two different conversations about the greatest player, the best player, that comes down to a numbers game and Djokovic wins that,” former British No 1 Tim Henman told Tennis365 .
“When you talk about impact and popularity, it’s a horse race and there’s no doubt that Federer is the most popular player to ever play our game.
“With numbers like today, you have to say that Djokovic is leading this debate as to who is the greatest.
“The fact that we have this debate as often as we do highlights the fact that other people have a different perspective and that’s the beauty of the game.
“If you’re a Federer fan, you might not say Djokovic is the greatest player of all time, but the numbers support Novak’s case.”