Rafa’s historic win in the Australian Open final was truly a remarkable personal achievement in the Spaniard’s illustrious career. It also gave him an edge in the ever-lasting Greatest Of All Time (GOAT) debate. Rafael Nadal, who now has 21 Slams, got the better of Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in the tally at last.

But Rafa’s coach, Carlos Moya, isn’t bothered much by the debate. In a recent interview, Moya said that his team is more focused on staying in the moment, rather than chasing history. 

Carlos Moya shares his views on GOAT debate

The former World No. 1 joined Rafa’s coaching team in 2016. The coach separated himself and the team from the ongoing GOAT debate. He believes that it is just a point of discussion for the fans and the press.

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While commenting positively on Rafael Nadal’s competitive nature and hunger for more titles, he said, “It’s not good to obsess; yes get motivated. Obviously, he is not going to give up on 22, if the opportunity arises he will fight for him, but it is a debate that, with all of them still active, does not make much sense.”

Rafael Nadal’s claim for GOAT

Rafa still looks incredibly fit for a 35-year-old player. Amazingly, he is the only one in the top 20 rankings who is above 35 years. “What Rafa is looking for is to be competitive and continue to evolve. It is true that over time you lose physique, speed, or explosiveness, but you are smarter and handle situations better,” says Moya about Rafa’s age.

For the GOAT comparison between Rafa, Roger Federer, and Novak Djokovic, the Slam count is surely with the Spaniard. But in head-to-head matches, Rafa has an advantage over the Swiss professional with 24 wins and 16 losses in total 40 games played between the two.

While Djokovic has won 30 and lost 28 matches against Rafa out of their 58. What is your take on the GOAT debate? Let us know in the comment box below.

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