Djokovic return to Australian Open has seen GOAT debate conclusion more likely according to Wilander: "We really would like to know who we can label No 1 of all time"

Novak Djokovic will play at the Australian Open once more with Mats Wilander believing it a good thing for the GOAT debate.

Wilander like many often shared his views on the ever-changing GOAT debate in tennis but he thinks the Australian Open could finally provide a conclusion. Djokovic has dominated the grand slam event for years and is widely expected to do so next year upon his return.

He said:

“For the game, this is most probably the most single important piece of news since Covid-19 hit the first time, because we were stuck in this race between the biggest, greatest three players of all time on the men’s side, with three different contrasting styles coming up at different times. Roger pushing the envelope, Nadal pushing Roger and then Novak coming to kind of ‘spoil the party’.

He added:

“If Novak had not been allowed [to play unvaccinated], the history of our game would have become completely irrelevant. The numbers of Grand Slams would have become completely irrelevant if Novak wasn’t able to play anymore. For most people I say that we really would like to know who we can label No 1 of all time."