The missing piece: Why Novak Djokovic didn’t clinch GOAT status after the slam

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Novak Djokovic added to his incredible legacy in 2023 by becoming the all-time leader in men’s singles Grand Slam titles

After spending his career chasing Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, Djokovic finally pulled ahead with a 23rd major title, surpassing the record held by the Spaniard at the time.

He capped off that year with another Grand Slam win at the US Open, taking his total to 24.

The debate over who deserved to be called the greatest of all time only grew louder after that. But even then, at age 36 and coming off another major win, Djokovic wasn’t willing to take on that label.

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What Novak Djokovic said after the 2023 Roland Garros final

When asked if he felt like the greatest ever, Djokovic replied: “Well, thank you. I mean, I don’t want to say that I am the greatest.

“I’ve said it before, it’s disrespectful towards all the great champions in different eras of our sport that was played in a completely different way than it is played today.

“So I feel like each great champion of his own generation has left a huge mark, a legacy and paved the way for us to be able to play this sport in such a great stage worldwide.”

“I leave those kind of discussions of who is the greatest to someone else. You know, I have, of course huge faith and confidence and belief, you know, to myself and for everything that I am and who I am and what I am capable of doing.

“So this trophy obviously is another confirmation of the quality of tennis that I’m still able to produce, I feel.”

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