Despite Novak Djokovic’s Phenomenal Records, Former ATP Star Rates Rafael Nadal Head and Shoulders Above the Serbian

The GOAT debate is one that is endless, and everyone who follows the tennis world has shared their name for the GOAT of tennis. The leading figures are Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. The three players changed the landscape of tennis in the last two decades and live large in the hearts of fans. As the discussion of the greatest between the three heats up, a former Moroccan legend shares his claim.

Younes El Aynaoui talked about the factors that made him pick his favorite. But aside from that, he also talked about one quality that sets Djokovic apart from his two rivals.

Moroccan legend rates Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer higher than Novak Djokovic

Interviewing with Punto De Break, Aynaoui talked about his new role as a coach and the current scene of tennis. He retired before the three biggest stars of tennis stepped up and changed the game. But that gave him enough time to watch their matches. Now, the Moroccan coach has established enough knowledge on them.

When asked about who could be the GOAT of the sport, he said that Djokovic was the best when talking about titles. He also mentioned the behavior of the players and held Rafa and Federer higher in regard than Djoker.

He further said, “For me it’s not all about tennis and numbers, you also have to look at what the person is like or how they handle defeats. In that sense, Rafa is number one, we never saw him do anything strange on the track, and I’m not saying this because he is in Spain. He never broke a racket, nor did we see him complain about anything or throw a match, he has always shown a good attitude, he is an example for everyone who plays tennis.”

He also talked about being able to enjoy watching the three players perform at their best. “Fortunately we were able to enjoy the era of these three players, Djokovic is still playing and expanding his legend, we will see next year how far the new generation goes.”

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Reading his comments, some would feel Aynaoui does not give Djokovic much respect. However, the former player respects the Serbian legend and praises his abilities as well.

Djokovic possesses a unique trait absent from his two rivals

In the same interview, Aynaoui talked about the quality that was possessed by Rafa and Federer and how we will never see players like them again. He said that when one wins, everything is easy, and a real champion is seen in defeat. Both accepted defeat better than Djokovic, which he postulates became the reason the Serbian star has surpassed them in numbers.

Djokovic’s career is nowhere near its conclusion. As he keeps breaking records and achieving new feats, he will sway the minds of many as they will be drawn to him. As he possesses qualities that make him a winner, the Djoker will keep the competition alive in the current generation. 

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