Toni Nadal declared that Novak Djokovic is the “greatest tennis player in the history” following the Serbian’s triumph over Carlos Alcaraz in the final of the 2024 Olympic Games. The uncle and renowned former mentor of Rafael Nadal asserted that Alcaraz’s disappointment at missing out on the gold medal should not be seen as a defeat.
Djokovic displayed his highest level of performance in the 2024 season to defeat Alcaraz in straight sets in the gold medal match at the Paris Olympics. The 37-year-old’s victory on Court Philippe-Chatrier at Stade Roland Garros secured him his first-ever Olympic gold medal in his fifth appearance at the Games.
The Serbian holds the majority of the most significant records in men’s tennis, and with his Olympic success, he has now claimed every major prize in the sport. In addition to holding the most Grand Slam titles, Masters 1000 titles, and ATP Finals titles, Djokovic has spent the most weeks ranked as world No. 1 and has the most ATP year-end No. 1 finishes. He also boasts a winning record against his two greatest rivals: Rafael Nadal (31-29) and Roger Federer (27-23).
Carlos Alcaraz refrains from dubbing Novak Djokovic the “Greatest of All Time” despite the Serbian’s Olympic accomplishment. Novak Djokovic’s former coach offers a prediction for the US Open and delivers a foreboding warning.
Djokovic’s unparalleled achievements have led many current and former players, analysts, and fans to bestow upon him the title of the greatest tennis player in history. In his column for El Pais, Nadal commended Alcaraz’s feat of winning a silver medal while lavishing the highest praise on Djokovic. “The sight of Carlos in tears on the court, displaying clear signs of grief and frustration, has left us with a bitter sentiment. However, we must not perceive this as a defeat,” wrote the Spaniard. “He lost a match that could have gone in his favor, giving his utmost effort at all times, battling until the last ball, as we have come to expect from him, and captivating an entire nation that relished watching his exceptional tennis skills and his passion. His silver medal against the greatest tennis player in history undoubtedly deserves our utmost admiration.”
Photo from Rafael Nadal Instagram
