Gilles Simon has a chapter called “Federer Myth” in his new book as he writes on the BIG 3

Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic has been in the continuous battle for the GOAT title. While Roger and Rafa have 20 titles each, Novak lags behind with 17 titles.

The Big 3 debate in tennis has the trio, Federer, Nadal and Djokovic. The French player has authored a book titled, ‘This Sport that Makes You Crazy’. In a chapter titled, “The Federer Myth”, Simon has spoken about the titles won by the trio and what it means for the future of tennis.

“The GOAT story gaining proportions” writes Simon

In his book, Gilles Simon has portrayed the role of the big 3 debate on the other players. While Roger is the most adored, Novak does not enjoy the same love.

“If Federer’s records fall, then we will no longer be able to pretend, we will no longer be able to limit tennis to one player,” Simon wrote.

“We agree that the game proposed by Federer is without doubt the most pleasant to watch, but it is not necessarily the most effective. Novak Djokovic, it may be less dreamy, but it is no less effective. And if he exceeds him in terms of Grand Slam victories (because ultimately that’s what counts), then we will no longer be able to hide our face,” he added.

“If Roger Federer keeps his records, that will allow us to say that, of course, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal are good players too, but above all that they are less strong,” Simon further wrote.

The Frenchman has pointed out the roles of the big 3 in tennis. While Roger Federer is the clear favourite, the compatriot Novak Djokovic is not as admired by the fans. The Swiss master stood alone with 20 titles, but now as Rafa has levelled the score. If surpassed, Roger will lose the “exceptional” stature he holds.

Effect of Big 3 on the younger generation

Out of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, Roger is most admired. But to see Novak surpass him, it will be changing the thought patterns of the masses.

“That’s why this GOAT story has been gaining such proportions for years, because there are many who believe that Federer’s records will never fall. But if Novak Djokovic overtakes him when he hardly makes any volleys, it will break the thought patterns of a lot of people. Because we just don’t like him as much as Roger Federer,” Simon wrote.

“Federer, who keeps his records, means that for generations to come, they will put him in all the sauce. And I don’t want that. I would like a kid who is forced to play like Federer (to be able to) answer: ‘Yes but Novak and Rafa have won 21 titles by playing differently’,” Simon added.

Simon has indicated that if Roger is surpassed there will exist no compulsion to follow his style. While Rafa and Novak are also talented, Roger is considered the ultimate when it comes to technique. The backhand of the Swiss master and his footwork is flawless at court.

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