“Champion of His Era”: Rod Laver Picks Roger Federer as the GOAT Over Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic

Published 02/16/2021, 1:31 AM EST

The decision on who is the ‘Greatest of All Time’ amongst Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic is highly debatable. But now tennis legend Rod Laver has taken his pick for the best among the ‘Big 3’.

In a recent interview, Rod Laver claimed that Roger Federer is the best of his era. He even went on to call the Swiss Maestro the “Greatest of All Time”.

“For me, I think Roger is the champion of his era. I think he’s certainly … you know, you look at his record and there’s a lot to say he’s the best of all time.”

Article continues below this ad

Who could challenge Roger Federer’s legacy?

But Rod Laver also thinks that Federer’s rivals can reach his level. He especially reckons that Novak Djokovic can reach Federer’s level because of his pedigree and consistency.

“But give some of the other guys a little bit more time, maybe they’ll come up and… be as good as Roger. Djokovic is certainly is on his way because he won a huge amount of tournaments and his consistency is amazing.”

Federer is still out recovering from his knee surgeries, and according to Rod Laver, he can still play past his 40s and win tournaments.

“Roger, when I chatted to him the past year or so, he thought he’d play his best until he’s 40 and I think he’s pretty much on it.”

Roger Federer and his anticipated return

Article continues below this ad

The main part of Federer’s 2021 season will come in the second half of the season. Federer would turn 40 and has the Wimbledon, US Open, and Olympic Games in sight.

“I wouldn’t think too much about him winning the French. But I think Wimbledon is certainly going to be there and the US Open. I think he can win more tournaments. He loves to play, loves to compete. He loves the environment he’s in.” Rod Laver said. (h/t- Fox Sports)

Federer is all set to begin his 2021 on 8th March at Doha, Qatar. He will be seen on the tennis court for the first time in 14 months.

Article continues below this ad

‘Roger’s Still the Greatest’: 6-Time Grand Slam Champion on GOAT Debate Between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Bhavishya Mittal is a tennis author for EssentiallySports, who is currently pursuing his Bachelor's degree in Journalism from Manipal University. A former sports editor for The Manipal Journal, Bhavishya has also worked for The New Indian Express. He has a keen eye for many sports but he is a particularly ardent follower of tennis, with a zest to create riveting articles on the ever-evolving sport.

“Champion of His Era”: Rod Laver Picks Roger Federer as the GOAT Over Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic

Who could challenge Roger Federer’s legacy?

Trending

‘RIP’ – Heartbroken Brother of John McEnroe Mourns ESPN Legend’s Tragic Death Who Last Tweeted About Coco Gauff

Serena Williams’ Husband Alexis Ohanian Gushes Over Her ‘Little Pink’ Attire as Part of Nike’s Latest Endeavor

‘Pure B**S*T Fandom Speculation’ – Andy Roddick Weighs in on a Highly Probable Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal Emotional Reunion at Laver Cup

Madrid Open: Aryna Sabalenka’s Fashion ‘Upgrade’ Stumps Tennis World As They React to Her Outing With Rumored Boyfriend

Mutua Madrid Open: Heart-Broken Taylor Townsend Makes Shattering Admission About Missing Son’s Martial Arts Performance

Roger Federer and his anticipated return