Legendary Coach Rick Macci Opens Up on the GOAT Debate Between Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic

The ageless debate in men’s tennis about the Greatest of All Time rages on. Everyone has their own favorite between Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic and will defend their choice to the death. However, in a recent interview with Venus and Serena Williams’ former coach, Rick Macci, we got some expert opinion on the topic.

Macci is a seven-time USPTA national coach of the year and has trained legends like Andy Roddick, the Williams sisters, and Maria Sharapova. His journey with Serena and Venus is highlighted in the recently released film, King Richard.

Serena Williams’ former coach Rick Macci clears the GOAT debate

In an interview with journalist Mahalakshmi Murali of EssentiallySports, Macci gave his verdict on the GOAT debate. He began by appreciating the elegance of Roger Federer, soon after praising Novak Djokovic for his consistency.

Rick said, “Everybody loves Federer because of the way he plays, so graceful and artistic and stuff like that. We judge it on how many Slams that you win you can’t argue with Djokovic. Because of the way his consistency and staying up there have very few speed bumps.”

The coach elaborated that the picture would be clearer in a few years as the jury is still out with all three players still active. Furthermore, Macci continued, “It looks like Novak right now but Federer is maybe the best player in my opinion but Novak might go down as the greatest, but don’t count out Rafa either.”

However, in the end, Serena Williams‘ former coach couldn’t make up his mind and said, “I think maybe there’ll be a tie.” Given the incredible legacy of the Big Three, it’s difficult to pick a single name.

Watch this story: The Journey of Roger Federer to the Elite Billionaire’s Club

Roger Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic’s status for the Australian Open 2022

Unfortunately, Roger Federer has withdrawn from the Australian Open 2022, as he still needs time to recover from his knee surgery. The Spaniard, Rafael Nadal, is pretty confident about his participation at the ‘Happy Slam’.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 07: Roger Federer of Switzerland towels off during his men’s Singles Quarter Final match against Hubert Hurkacz of Poland on Day Nine of The Championships – Wimbledon 2021 at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 07, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

In addition, the nine-time Australian Open champion, Novak Djokovic, was included in the entry list for the year-opening Slam so he’s expected to be involved as well. Will either of Rafa or Nole grab the elusive and record-breaking 21st Slam next January?

ALSO READ: Former Coach Rick Macci Suggests Venus Williams Could Have Been the GOAT Over Serena Williams

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