Rafael Nadal’s uncle and former coach Toni Nadal believes Roger Federer is the best player in tennis history.
Toni Nadal was the architect of Rafael Nadal’s first 14 Grand Slam titles before splitting with his nephew in 2016 as former World No. 1 Carlos Moya was appointed as the 10-time French Open winner’s head coach. Rafa’s partnership with Moya turned out to be an instant hit as he won the Roland Garros and the US Open trophies in 2017.
Even though Rafa had a great run last year, Federer overshadowed him with his own spectacular comeback. The Swiss maestro continued his imperious form in 2018, winning his 20th Grand Slam in Melbourne and overtaking Rafa at the top of the men’s rankings.
And Federer’s recent accomplishments have convinced Toni that the 36-year-old from Basel is indeed the greatest player of all time.
“Right now, Roger is the best of all time,” Toni Nadal told Tennisnet.com. “Nobody did what he achieved. Rod Laver was also very good, but no one has won 20 Grand Slam titles, a Davis Cup victory, and many other victories.
“Rafael has also won 16 majors, triumphed four times in the Davis Cup – but Federer is better, he’s the best!”
Toni Nadal added: “Of course I want my nephew to be at the top of the list – not Federer. But of course Roger is an exceptional player, it’s unbelievable what he has achieved in his old age. He is a special tennis player, has a great serve, a great forehand. I think he can play at this level for a while longer.”
When Toni was asked whether Nadal could play like Federer when he will turn 36, the celebrated coach responded by saying: “I cannot say that yet. But if his body is involved, I do not exclude anything. On the other hand, there are many young professionals moving up.”
“But if Rafael sees the opportunity to win big tournaments, it is possible that he will play for a few more years.”
French Open champion Rafa Nadal was scheduled to make his return from hip injury in Acapulco but pulled out of the tournament on Tuesday. It is not yet clear whether the Spanish southpaw will regain full fitness to compete in the Indian Wells Masters, the first 1000 event on the ATP calendar in 2018. The tournament will begin in California from March 8.
