“To me, that achievement eclipses others”: Former world number 12 reveals why Rafael Nadal deserves GOAT status in tennis

Former world number 12 Feliciano Lopez believes that Spain’s Rafael Nadal is the greatest player in the history of men’s tennis because of his incredible record at the French Open. The 37-year-old is often regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of men’s tennis in the singles category in the Open era, having won as many as 22 Grand Slam titles.

Fourteen of those titles came while playing at Roland Garros which is why he is also known as the ‘King of Clay’. Lopez was recently quoted in a report where he stated that Nadal winning one Grand Slam as many as 14 times makes him the greatest player in the history of men’s tennis. “It’s almost an offensive question,” he said. “It’s obvious. Nadal has done things that have never happened in history. He’s not only the best Spanish sportsman of all time, for many he’s also the best tennis player in history. Yes, the debate is still open. Some say Djokovic, who has the irrefutable numbers.

“But others believe Rafa has also made a case. Personally, I believe he’s done incredible things that might contribute to him being considered the best in history, above all the fact that he’s won the same Grand Slam 14 times. To me, that achievement eclipses others. This tournament was born without Rafa, but it grew up with him and obviously he has made an inordinate contribution to the whole growth of the tournament. The people of Madrid adore him and it’s been amazing to see the tournament grow along with our best player.”