"Belittles every success": Novak Djokovic's former coach says Western press don't want to acknowledge GOAT status
ATP
Nikola
Pilic, former coach of Novak Djokovic, has recently voiced his belief that some
sections of the press underestimate the Serbian player.
World No. 1
likely broke the biggest record of his career this season by winning 3 Grand
Slam titles and becoming the most decorated tennis player in history. The
24-times Grand Slam champion had one of the best years of his career,
surpassing Rafael Nadal, who has 22 titles, and Roger Federer, who has 20.
Djokovic,
at 36 years old, continues to dominate the rankings, with over 400 weeks at the
top (an absolute record). He is the most successful player in ATP Finals and
Masters 1000 history, among many other achievements in his career.
However,
his former coach, Nikola Pilic, spoke to the Serbian website "Kurir"
and stated that 'Nole' is undervalued by a significant part of the press.
“The
Western press belittles every success of Novak and they don't want to accept
that he is the GOAT, and that is already a finished story. Today I received a
German magazine and on the cover is Federer in a tuxedo,” he said.
“What will
Federer do on the cover the day after the tournament in Turin foreign? With all
due respect for everything he has done, he has been in his well-deserved
retirement for a year now. This is their disparagement, but in vain, Novak won
and told them "arriveders" boys - continued one of the most deserving
people that Novak is where it is," Piilic added.
Novak
Djokovic recently fulfilled the mission of defending his title at the ATP
Finals (victory over Jannik Sinner 6-3, 6-3). He reached 7 trophies, surpassing
Federer, and ended the year as the undisputed world No. 1. Djokovic's last
challenge will be in the Davis Cup, a trophy that Serbia already won in 2010.
They will face the Great Britain team in the quarterfinals starting on
Thursday, November 23.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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