‘Nadal, Djokovic, and Federer Are Not Champions’ – After Years of Fierce Rivalry, French Star Gael Monfils Delivers His Ultimate Verdict on the Big 3

The French tennis star Gael Monfils is one of the most experienced names in men’s tennis. When the Frenchman was at the peak of his powers, he was ranked World No. 6 in the ATP Tour rankings. He also had some famous encounters with the ‘Big 3’ – Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic. While Monfils was a quality player, he always came up short against Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic. In a recent interview, Monfils revealed what he thinks of them.

The Frenchman spoke at length about the remarkable feats that the trio has achieved. According to Monfils, Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic, “are not champions”, but something else entirely.

Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic are in a different league, claims Gael Monfils

Before Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic came along, there were plenty of greats in men’s tennis. However, in terms of achievements, the ‘Big 3’ smashed every imaginable record. For instance, Federer won a record 8 Wimbledon titles before calling time on his career. As a result, he will be honored at this year’s edition of the tournament. Nadal established himself as the ‘King of Clay’ following a whopping 14 French Open titles. Djokovic is a record holder when it comes to the number of Australian Open titles. The Serb has won 10 Australian Open titles so far.

In his interview, Monfils said, “We always want to compare the incomparable. Nadal, Djokovic, and Federer are not champions”. He added, “These guys are legends. People forget it. If we could achieve the same things as them, we would be legends too.”

Monfils cited Nadal’s example as well. “I always take the example of Roland-Garros. Who has won it 14 times? Has this ever existed? Two other legends have won it three times, once Roger and twice Novak. And we are slapped on the knuckles.”

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How did Monfils fare against the ‘Big 3’?

In 2006, Monfils faced Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic across different tournaments. The Frenchman, despite putting in commendable performances, lost all 3 matches. Monfils met Federer in the final of the Doha Championships and suffered a straight sets defeat.

At the Rome Masters, Monfils clashed against Rafael Nadal in the semifinals. However, yet again, he registered a straight sets loss. At the French Open, he met Djokovic in the fourth round. Unfortunately, Monfils lost once again.

Do you agree with the French tennis star?

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