"He put tennis in everyone's TV set": Tennis legends including Wilander and Henman believe Federer eclipses Djokovic as GOAT for different reasons
Tennis NewsFriday, 29 September 2023 at 21:30
Some tennis
legends have debated the GOAT and put Roger Federer ahead of Novak Djokovic.
In recent
years, the battle to be the tennis player with the most Grand Slam titles has
provided fans with one of the greatest rivalries in the history of the sport,
with Djokovic, Federer, and Rafael Nadal competing for major titles over the
last 15 years, with each of them leading the Grand Slam count at some point.
However,
'Nole' Djokovic has reached 24 Grand Slam titles, pulling ahead of the retired
Federer's 20, and still holding a two-title lead over Nadal, who is nearing
retirement. While Djokovic's achievements might settle the GOAT discussion for
many, some tennis legends believe there are other factors to consider beyond
just the numbers.
Seven-time
Grand Slam champion Mats Wilander, former British No. 1 Tim Henman, and 18-time
Grand Slam doubles champion Mike Bryan have all voiced their support for
Federer in the GOAT discussion, despite him being third in terms of the number
of Grand Slams won.
Mats Wilander:
“You know I
don’t like the saying who is the GOAT, because ‘greatest of all time’ is one
thing, but ‘best of all time’, we will give to Novak Djokovic these days. The
‘greatest of all time’, I like to give to Roger Federer because I think he put tennis
in everyone’s TV set.
“It will be
interesting to see what he (Federer) does with the rest of his life, is he
going to be part of tennis in the way we are [in the media]? Is he going to be
coaching?
“He has his
management company and is involved in a clothing line, but I would love to hear
him commentate just to hear what he has to say, it would be great.
“It was so
sad when he decided to retire, that is the saddest moment I have witnessed in
professional tennis. He is a great guy, so nice to everybody, a class act.”
Tim Henman:
“There are
two different conversations to be had about the greatest player, the best
player, that comes down to a numbers game and Djokovic will win that.
“If you are
talking about impact and popularity, it is a one-horse race and there is no
doubt that Federer is the most popular player that has ever played our sport.
“Overall,
Djokovic is the best of all-time on the numbers, but many will still pick
Federer because of what he contributed to the game on so many levels.”
Doubles legend Mike Bryan:
“All three
of these great champions are amazing, but for me, it has to be Roger Federer at
the top. Those few years when he was dominating, he barely lost any matches.
“The way he
does is it always so smooth. He doesn’t sweat, he is just like a zen master. He
is also the most relaxed in the locker room.
“Before a
Wimbledon final, he is laughing in the dressing room like it’s a Sunday
afternoon in the park.
“When it’s
all said and done, who knows who will have all the records? It will probably be
Djokovic, but I will always have a special place in my heart for Roger.”
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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