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During a recent interview with MARCA, Ilie Nastase addressed the eternal question relating to the GOAT, especially talking about Roger Federer. Nastase said: "If the greatest ever is the one who has won the most titles, the choice falls on Rafael Nadal right now.
If we take other factors into consideration, it's hard not to mention Roger Federer. In addition to being incredibly talented, the Swiss has contributed more than any other to increasing the popularity of tennis around the world.
Roger has played very little in the last two years, but if he manages to get back on his feet he will always have a chance to get to the bottom." Ilie also spoke of Novak Djokovic's situation: "They are practically all vaccinated except him, it is clear that he has a problem.
I will not be the one to judge him, because it is a personal choice." The number 2 in the world will not be able to participate in the Masters 1000 in Indian Wells and Miami due to the well-known vaccination issue. As if that were not enough, Nole had to surrender the scepter of the ATP ranking in the hands of Daniil Medvedev.
The GOAT fight
Nobody expected such a start to the season from Rafael Nadal. Fresh from a long stop due to injury, the former world number 1 won the first 15 games played in 2022. The Spanish champion won the Melbourne ATP, the Australian Open and the Acapulco tournament, leaving everyone to mouth open.
Imposing himself for the second time in his career at Melbourne Park, the 35-year-old from Manacor has hoisted himself to 21 Majors, beating Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in the all-time rankings. Rafa also became the fourth man in history to have won all Grand Slams at least twice (along with Djokovic, Rod Laver and Roy Emerson).
The Majorcan will try to reach 22 already at the Roland Garros, waiting to understand whether or not Nole will be present in Paris (the imminent abolition of the Green Pass in France should give him the green light).