Juan Martin del Potro weighed in on the GOAT debate, backing Novak Djokovic while snubbing Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. The Argentine is set to officially bid farewell to tennis at an exhibition event, ‘El Ultimo Desafio,’ where he will take on the Serb.
The GOAT debate among tennis’ Big 3 has raged for over two decades, with each player earning admiration from fans and notable figures alike. Statistically, Djokovic leads the pack with 24 Grand Slam titles, followed by Nadal with 22 and Federer with 20.
Del Potro recently spoke about the matter in an interview with Telefe. While he praised all three legends, he admitted that Djokovic stood out for him as the toughest opponent on the court.
“Djokovic was the player who complicated me the most on the track. Rafa and Roger too, but Nole was the one who was the most, that’s why he’s here today. He is in his splendor and does not age,” Del Potro said.
“Equally, I was privileged to be able to fight tennis players who have set such great milestones in sports. I was one of many that from time to time bothered them in some tournaments. Seeing how you frustrated them was fun,” he added.
The former US Open champion continued:
“Over time you realize how difficult it was to achieve what I achieved and would choose my career again at this same time, I shared a lot with the great players in history. A mix of Big 3 make the perfect tennis player.”
The Argentine faced Novak Djokovic 20 times, winning only 4 of their encounters. He fared slightly better against Roger Federer, with 7 wins in 25 matches, and against Rafael Nadal, winning 6 of their 17 meetings.
“I have a very warm, very human relationship with Novak Djokovic” – Juan Martin del Potro
Juan Martin del Potro officially retired from tennis in 2022 at the age of 36. However, he is set to step on the court one last time in a farewell match against Novak Djokovic in Buenos Aires, Argentina, giving fans a final chance to see him in action.
Del Potro said during the interview with Telefe:
“This last confrontation it is a personal, emotional and psychological challenge to get ready and enjoy the last moment on the track a bit, and it will be the last because the day comes when I have to say goodbye forever. After this game, it is done.”
Del Potro shared that his close bond with Djokovic made him choose the Serb over Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer for his farewell and vowed to deliver a memorable performance.
“Let Djokovic come is the most beautiful prize he could have. I have a very warm, very human relationship with him and he is the one who always offers himself for these crazy things. He quickly replied that he was counting on me and that we were going to give a good show.”
Djokovic has arrived in Buenos Aires and is excited to be part of the Argentine’s last hurrah. He also expressed sadness that all of his former rivals have retired.
