“Clear Sign”: Pete Sampras Regards Novak Djokovic as the GOAT Over Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal

Novak Djokovic has truly exhibited his top level game in the year 2021. Winning three of the four Major Slams and ending the year as World No. 1 for the 7th time is a remarkable achievement. Just recently, after his opener at ATP Finals, Djokovic was awarded the prestigious year-end World No.1 trophy.

In the interview, Djokovic mentioned about the inspiration he received from the tennis legend, Pete Sampras. Sampras held the record before Nole and, reacting to his achievement, Pete applauded the 20-time Grand Slam champion.

Pete Sampras calls Novak Djokovic the greatest of all time

Just after lifting the ATP’s year-end World No. 1 trophy, Novak Djokovic said he considered Pete Sampras as his childhood role model. According to him, surpassing Sampras’s record was a surreal moment for him.

In an interview with, Sampras said, “I do think what Novak’s done over the past 10 years, winning the Majors, being consistent, finishing No.1 for seven years, to me it’s clear sign that he is the greatest of all time.”

The American further talked about the dominance Djokovic prevailed over the two finest players, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. “But I think he’ll appreciate it more as he gets older. He did it at a time where he dominated two of the greats, in Roger and Rafa, and he handled the next generation of players very well – all at the same time“, Pete said.

Sampras has given his take on the GOAT debate, and the numbers certainly seem to back up his claim.

Sampras says Djokovic is always learning

Furthermore, Pete Sampras talked about Novak Djokovic’s willingness to learn from his mistakes. Sampras added, “He’s willing to change, he’s willing to learn about himself. He’s always looking to get better.”

The former World No. 1 certainly didn’t hold back on his praise for Djokovic. After his incredible 2021 season, it’s difficult to argue he doesn’t deserve it.

For now, Nole will be hoping to emerge victorious at the ATP Finals and match yet another Roger Federer record (of 6 Finals wins).

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