People identify more with Rafa and Roger. For me, Novak is the greatest in everything: Goran Ivanisevic

It was at the French Open this year that the Serb overtook Rafael Nadal in the tally of all-time grand slam holders with his 23rd.

Serbia's Novak Djokovic celebrates after beating Switzerland's Stan Wawrinka in a men's singles match on day five of the Wimbledon tennis championships in London, Friday, July 7, 2023. (AP)

Listen to this article

00:00

1x 1.5x 1.8x

Eight time grand slam winner Goran Ivanisevic has termed Novak Djokovic as the greatest ever in his opinion when it comes to the age old debate of the Serbian’s standing with respect to Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

“People identify more with Rafa and Roger because they were the first to reach the big stage, but Novak also has a lot of support. He is one of the best athletes of all time. And he still plays. It’s amazing what he did for tennis and sports in general. I think people still appreciate it, but they will appreciate it more when he finishes his career,” Ivanisevic was quoted recently by Sportske Novosti.

He further added, “For me, Novak is the greatest in everything, in terms of results. Federer may have played the most attractively, but they all helped each other become better players. First Roger, then Rafa, and then Novak came. The rivalry of this trio was incredible. They made tennis a better sport, and everyone loves tennis. But you have to single someone out. Some prefer Roger or Nadal, but for me it’s Novak.”

Story continues below this ad

It was at the French Open this year that the Serb overtook Rafael Nadal in the tally of all-time grand slam holders with his 23rd. Djokovic had also claimed the Australian Open earlier this year.

At the ongoing Wimbledon, the defending champion is through to the Round of 16 and will face Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz on Sunday.