“Titles won by Novak Djokovic not a decisive factor in GOAT debate,” says Panatta


“Titles won by Novak Djokovic not a decisive factor in GOAT debate,” says Panatta
Novak Djokovic

Adriano Panatta, the former Italian Professional Tennis Player, who also went on to win the French Open of 1976 has weighed in on the Greatest Of All Time debate, and it’s not good news for the present World Number 1, Novak Djokovic.

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While acknowledging Novak Djokovic’s tremendous last decade and how he’s had an upper hand over Nadal and Federer, along with his 17 Grand Slam Titles which are not far away from 20 and 19 of Roger and Rafael Nadal respectively.

In a chat with UBITennis, Panatta pointed out why Novak Djokovic can’t be called the GOAT. Nole seems troubled by the idea of pleasing the public at all costs,” said Panatta. The Italian believes that Rafael Nadal and Roger have always had the crowd support and have never had to explicitly gain their support, being the fan favorites, on the contrary, Djokovic has had a tough time pleasing the crowd.

Djokovic did none of this intentionally: Panatta on the Adria Tour fiasco

Adria Tour ended with several positive covid-tests and controversies

Panatta also spoke about the ‘Adria Tour Fiasco‘ and how that backlashed. The Adria Tour did not have enough safety protocols as the players were seen to be indulging in activities without masks. Eventually, the Djokovic organized Adria Tour had several positive cases before the tournament ended. Djokovic and his wife, Jelena also tested covid-positive.

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“The rules should be respected, period. Djokovic did none of this intentionally. It was a beneficial initiative, but it turned into a disaster,” Panatta said.

He didn’t forget to give the credit where it’s due and mentioned briefly how Novak and his wife have donated approximately $6 million to the Serbian public health system and charities, but they got overshadowed by the Adria Tour disaster.

Fans have chosen Roger, and then Nadal at his side. Novak is a great player, but in the end, as always, the count of the titles won will not be decisive. The ones who intend to be the best, they go on the field to win. But the show must be worth the ticket price,” concluded Panatta.

Also Read: Career Loss percentage against each other of The Big 4

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