In a recent interview with Tennis365, Carlos Alcaraz said that he does not completely consider Novak Djokovic the GOAT of tennis. The comment didn’t sit well with the Serb’s diehard fans.
As a result, they accused Alcaraz of being bitter after his loss in the Olympics 2024 final to Djokovic.
Alcaraz can’t Cope
— Catalina ♟️ (@kate_catalina) August 6, 2024
As we should have imagined it. pic.twitter.com/SEjeQJfOf9
When asked whether he considers his rival the greatest tennis player of all time, Alcaraz was quoted as saying:
“There is not a single tournament he hasn’t won. By numbers, I can’t say no. Everything he’s set out to do, he’s achieved. But there are many other factors that enter the fray. I can’t say for me who is the best in history.”
Alcaraz’s hesitation in naming Djokovic as the GOAT could have something to do with his loyalty to Rafael Nadal. As he grew up idolizing his fellow countryman, Alcaraz might not want to ruffle his feathers and be unpopular in Spain.
While some have supported Alcaraz’s diplomatic stance, others have slammed him for not being that candid as compared to other interviews and for downplaying Djokovic’s dominance.
— Tennis world (@claygrasshard) August 7, 2024
Nevertheless, Alcaraz has a lot of regard for Djokovic. Recently, he praised the Serb’s willpower too, calling him “superhuman” for reaching the Wimbledon 2024 final despite going through a knee surgery after the French Open.
These comments show that Alcaraz prefers to let his tennis speak for itself rather than engage in such debates.
In the end, it is a reminder that the GOAT debate is subjective and multifaceted. This topic is always influenced by personal bias, national pride, and mutual respect.
