"He is the best of all-time mentally": Patrick Mouratoglou explains how Djokovic outshines Federer and Nadal

Sunday, 30 March 2025 at 03:30

Patrick Mouratoglou, current coach of Naomi Osaka, claimed that Novak Djokovic is mentally stronger than Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, which, according to him, favors him in the debate of who is the GOAT of tennis.

Mouratoglou stated that the great weapon of his former pupil to face Federer and Nadal was "his relentless self-belief and confidence." He also believes that the Serbian’s great potential was noticed in an interview, not on the court.

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"I remember the first time when Novak came onto the tour and Rafa and Roger were winning everything," Mouratoglou said. "All the other guys were thinking these two are unbeatable and then this young guy from Serbia comes onto the screen and he is about to play Roger in one of the first rounds of the Grand Slam.

"He was getting interviewed before the match and Novak said ‘I’m going to beat him’," explained the former Serena Williams coach. "Straight away the reaction to these comments was really negative and people were asking who was this guy who thinks he can beat the great Federer."

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"Then another journalist said to Djokovic that he sounded a bit cocky and I remember his response. He was polite and said: ‘I’m not cocky, I’m just confident in my abilities’. Well, he went on to prove it. Time and again. He became world No. 1, he beat both Roger and Rafa time and again and ended up with the best record of the three."

In the future, Novak would prove his words to be true, showcasing talent throughout his career, and also winning more Grand Slams and Master 1000 titles than Roger and Rafa. For Mouratoglou, the key is a greater mental strength, something he considers natural and unteachable.

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"When you look at Novak’s game and compare it to Roger and Rafa, you say how can this guy with this game have a better record than the other two, but it is because he is the best of all-time mentally."

The French coach added that Nole’s mental strength goes beyond what happens on the court. "You look at what he is doing every day in his life and it gives Novak so much confidence. He builds his life around being the best he can be and he is the only one doing this."

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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