Eight-time Grand Slam champion Andre Agassi has weighed-in on the biggest debate in the tennis world; who is the greatest of all time Rafael Nadal or Roger Federer?
36-year-old Federer is currently ranked second in the official ATP rankings, but has accomplished a number of unprecedented landmarks throughout his career. The Swiss legend became the first man to win 20 Grand Slam titles when he defeated Marin Cilic of Croatia to lift a record equaling sixth Australian Open crown earlier in January. And in February, Federer became the oldest No. 1 in tennis history, when he captured the trophy in Rotterdam.
On the other hand, Nadal, 32, has won 16 Grand Slams, but ranked No. 1 in the world. Moreover, he is the firm favorite to claim an 11th Roland Garros title this week, which would take his Major count to 17.
Pundits, fans and former players have all been debating who they believe is the best player of all time. And Agassi thinks the Spaniard has a little advantage over Federer in this debate.
“It is interesting the debate about who is better if it is Nadal or Federer,” Agassi told Marca.
“Roger makes everything easy but Rafa’s intensity from the first to the last point is unique.
“What I have said and continue to say is the Spaniard is the biggest competitor that has given the sport regardless of the discipline.
“The numbers are there and it is true that 20 Grand Slams are 20 and 21 are 21.
“I do not question that but the story is not just numbers and there are examples of it.
“I go with Rafa every time he plays and I go with Roger every time he goes out on a track.
“And when they play between them, I take it as a historical moment.”
Federer is currently missing the French Open and will be back in action at the Mercedes Cup in Stuttgart next week.
