Rafael Nadal says the GOAT race with Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer is ‘NOT’ what he wants to be remembered by as he reveals his ideal legacy
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Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal
Rafael Nadal continues to hold the distinction of the winner of most Grand Slam singles titles in the Open Era on the men’s side. The Spaniard with his 22 majors has a one title lead over fellow Big-3 member Novak Djokovic and led Roger Federer with two titles before the Swiss maestro called it quits.
The 36-year-old managed to claim two Grand Slams this year at the age of 35. He won his first Australian Open title since 2009, his second ever, while winning his record-extending 14th French Open title in Paris this year. Had it not been for his untimely abdominal injury, he could have had a real shot at winning the Wimbledon as well as he had made his way to the semis.
With 92 titles across his career, most majors to date for a man, undoubtedly ‘King of Clay’, there are a plethora of records that the Mallorcan has to his name. Despite the unmatchable success, the former World No. 1 has a very different viewpoint when it comes to his legacy.
“I don’t think about it. I think it’s something that takes a backseat. The important legacy is that all the people I have met during these 20 years of my career have a good human memory of me.
“At the end of the day, the personal issue, education, respect, and the affection with which you can treat people comes before the professional issue, because that is what remains with time,” said Nadal during a press conference in Ecuador as part of his Latin America exhibition Tour.
Rafael Nadal praises Carlos Alcaraz and Casper Ruud
Nadal however hinted that continuing to play at the level he showed in the 2022 season will be difficult. With recurring injuries, Nadal has hinted at playing very specific events. These events could be just for preparation for the Grand Slams which remain the biggest motivation for the Spaniard.
“I don’t think it’s going to be a trend. It’s difficult to maintain such a high level. I play very few events at this stage, so it’s difficult to maintain a very high ranking because you have to be very accurate in the events where you compete,” said Nadal before praising Casper Ruud and Carlos Alcaraz for their results and performances this year.
“Carlos has incredible potential and that’s why he is where he is, because he deserves it, and he is also very young and has a lot of years ahead of him. Casper was very close to being world No 1 and winning his first Grand Slam at the US Open,” added Nadal further.
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Sarthak Shitole
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