"As far as numbers go, it's Novak Djokovic; For me, it's Rafael Nadal & Roger Federer" - Carlos Alcaraz on 'GOAT' debate
Carlos Alcaraz revealed his pick for the tennis GOAT between Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal. The young Spaniard also opened up about who he thinks is the nicest and the funniest player on tour.
Alcaraz joined Youtuber Sharky for an interview as part of the ATP's 'Down the T' with Sharky. In the candid interview, the Spaniard was asked to answer the questions honestly.
He was asked who the nicest guy on tour was and he named Frances Tiafoe. The Spaniard and the American's friendship was on display as Tiafoe was named by Alcaraz for multiple answers including the 'Funniest guy in the locker room' and the 'best wingman on a night out'.
According to Alcaraz, Holger Rune is the 'biggest trash talker' on tour while Djokovic is the toughest competitor and hits the best returns. Lastly, Sharky asked the Spaniard who was the tennis GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) and the 21-year-old had to put his thinking cap on.
His answer was measured as he said that numbers are in favor of Djokovic but for him, Federer and Nadal are also at the top.
"As far as numbers go, it's Novak Djokovic without a doubt. The other two Federer and Rafa. For me, they're tops." Carlos Alcaraz said.
Carlos Alcaraz is the youngest to win 4 Grand Slams, surpassing Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Roger Federer
Carlos Alcaraz is outperforming the ATP's 'Big 3, Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Rafael Nadal, at 21 in terms of Grand Slam titles.
The 21-year-old Spaniard recently won his second Wimbledon title and fourth Grand Slam overall. The youngest to do so within the 'Big 3' was Nadal when he earned his fourth Slam in 2008 at Roland Garros at the age of 22.
Federer was 23 when he won his fourth Major - the 2004 US Open. Meanwhile, Djokovic did not reach the four-Major mark until he was 24. The Serb's fourth Slam title was the 2011 US Open.
Moreover, in terms of the total number of Grand Slam matches needed to win four titles, Alcaraz again comes out on top.
Federer needed 79 matches with a win percentage of 77.2 (61-18). Nadal took two matches more than the Swiss, 81, with a win percentage of 84 (68-13). Djokovic needed 134 matches with a win percentage of 82.1 (110-24).
Carlos Alcaraz, however, has just played 69 Grand Slam matches to earn his four titles with a win percentage of 85.5 (59-10).