Novak Djokovic still lags behind Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in one aspect claims former British No.1
After Novak Djokovic’s impressive 23rd Grand Slam triumph, former British number one Andrew Castle has weighed in on the ongoing GOAT debate.
Follow Us
Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer (Images via Twitter)
A week after Novak Djokovic’s record-breaking 23rd Grand Slam triumph, former British number one Andrew Castle weighs in on the ongoing GOAT debate. Castle said that while Novak Djokovic is undoubtedly a great player, he still lacks the “beauty” of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.
Andrew Castle lauded Novak Djokovic’s 23rd Major victory, which he sarcastically described as a “joke.” Speaking to Express Sport, the veteran tennis pundit said: “What Djokovic has produced over the years and what I’ve seen him produce at times, it’s just been a privilege to watch him.”
Talking candidly about the much-hyped GOAT debate, Castle recounted watching Federer and Nadal, rather captivatedly, even though it is Djokovic who possesses the more well-rounded game. He said, “And now, something that a lot of people were saying five or six years ago, and more people are saying now, is that he’s the greatest player of all time.“
Keep Exploring: Novak Djokovic DISMANTLES opponents better than the likes of Becker and Sampras, claims Andrew Castle
Andrew Castle offers his take on the ongoing GOAT debate
Furthermore, Castle feels that Djokovic’s game lacks the “swashbuckling nature” of Nadal and Federer. Contrasting the playing styles of the Big 3, Castle added that Nadal’s defining image at the French Open with his“eyes flashing” and “muscles rippling in the sun” is something that he would always remember. Describing Federer as the “most beautiful player ever,” Castle likened the Swiss superstar to “a Rolls Royce” who is “balletic.” Castle extolled Novak Djokovic’s “substantive core of game” and his knack for dominating his rivals, a trait that he had never seen in tennis before.
Andrew Castle, who has played against some of the greatest tennis players of all time like Bjorn Borg, Boris Becker, and Pete Sampras, said that Novak Djokovic is “wondrous” to watch. He commended Djokovic’s ability to play, compete, and completely dismantle opponents. Castle went on to add that he truly admires Djokovic describing the Serb as“just awesome.”
The debate over who is the greatest tennis player of all time is unlikely to abate anytime soon. However, Castle’s comments suggest that Djokovic will need to do more than just win Grand Slams if he wants to be considered the GOAT. He will also need to win over the hearts of the fans with his playing style.
In case you missed it:
Stay Updated!
Vitasta Singh
(691 Articles Published)