The torch may be about to be passed. For years, the debate raged: Rodger Federer? Rafael Nadal? Novak Djokovic? The “Big Three” of tennis, each with their own legion of fans and a mountain of trophies, battled for supremacy and the coveted GOAT title. But in a stunning turn of events, whispers suggest a change. Federer and Nadal, in a rare moment of unity, conceded the GOAT crown to Djokovic.

Recently, in an engaging Q&A session with Louis Vuitton, Federer and Nadal were exposed to a common question on their thoughts about how they want to be remembered. While both of them had nearly similar perspectives, they seemed to be passing away the crown to the World No. 1.

Rafael Nadal, who has spent over 20 years on the tour, highlighted that despite winning numerous titles and achievements, being seen as a good human being is what matters most to him. “At the end, what really will make me feel really proud and happy is when I leave this world, if the tournament directors, the people who work on the tournaments, staff, ATP, say good things about who I was on the tour or who I am as a person more than as a tennis player,” Nadal said.

Passing on the mic to Roger Federer, the legend also gave out a similar response, highlighting the importance of being remembered for his personality and impact on the sport. “I hope if I’m remembered not only as a tennis player but also as the person behind, what I gave to the game and what I represented to the game…if I was a good role model for the kids, I mean, that would make me happy too,” Federer shared.

Surprisingly, it isn’t just about Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal pushing the GOAT title towards Novak Djokovic. Sitting on the sidelines of the Indian Wells 2024, Jim Courier, the four-time Grand Slam champion, laid his take on the GOAT debate on the Tennis Channel desk.

Former pro-Jim Courier uses his analysis to explain why Novak Djokovic is the GOAT

According to the approach used by Jim Courier, it is Novak Djokovic’s resilient presence in an era where the Swiss tennis maestro has retired and Rafa is struggling with his form. “Statistically, it’s over. For now, unless Nadal somehow is able to find something and get back in the conversation with more Majors,” he said.

Jim Courier kept all of his focus on highlighting the massive wins that the Serb attained, surpassing the other two with his lead. Nole grabbed a total of 24 major titles whereas the Swiss tennis maestro’s body couldn’t manage to extend it more than 20. Rafa, who is currently struggling with his form, has 22 titles in his bucket, with an opportunity to hit one more at the upcoming Roland Garros.

The former tennis pro’s words tend to announce a clear winner according to the basis of comparison used. While it is a subjective opinion as all three of them have their own records and achievements, the debate seems to have no clear end.