It has very rare when the tennis community witnessed a player holding the number 1 ranking spot without even winning a major title. It became evident when the former Serbian tennis player, Jelena Jankovic, clinched the top spot in the WTA rankings without having any Grand Slam title in her bag. However, many in the tennis realm were not impressed by the same, including Roger Federer.

The Swiss tennis legend criticized the way the rankings were calculated given a particular player’s achievements. Later, Jankovic took note of those harsh comments and slammed the 20 singles Grand Slam champion for interfering in women’s tennis.

Roger Federer once got criticized for his opinion on the WTA rankings

In 2009, Jelena Jankovic claimed the number 1 spot on the WTA rankings after putting on some great displays on the tennis court. Despite being the world’s No. 1 player, she never had a single major title in her bag. The former Serbian tennis player came close to winning her first Grand Slam title in 2008 during the US Open. However, the American tennis legend, Serena Williams, defeated Jankovic in the finals of the tournament.

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While many were impressed with her performances, some were still not impressed with the way the WTA rankings were calculated. The list of such players also included the tennis great, Roger Federer, who irked the former tennis ace with his harsh opinion on the ranking system.

Later, Jankovic had her own way to took a jab at the 20 singles Grand Slam champion. She compared Federer to his arch-rival, Rafael Nadal while saying that the Spaniard is much more a humble person. Jankovic also said that she believes that Nadal is a role model for everybody.

Federer, on the other hand, received some sharp criticism from her. Jankovic said, “Why should he even care? I don’t like putting my nose in other’s business.”

She expressed her frustration by saying that the 41-year-old tennis legend should focus on his own tennis journey rather than criticizing others. Jankovic also called him a great champion while expressing her skepticism over his harsh comments.

Apart from Roger, the Serb has been involved in verbal sparring with other tennis greats including Serena Williams.

WATCH THIS STORY: Serena Williams pays tribute to Roger Federer.

What do you think of Federer’s opinion on the WTA rankings method? Also, what do you think of Jankovic’s blunt response to the Swiss tennis legend? Let us know in the comments section.