Roger Federer snubbed as Novak Djokovic edges Rafael Nadal in debate

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Roger Federer has been snubbed as Express Sport readers feel that Novak Djokovic has edged ahead of Rafael Nadal in the ongoing greatest of all time debate. Djokovic’s GOAT claim was boosted by completing a 378th week as world No.1 last month – breaking the long standing record held by Steffi Graf.

Express Sport readers were asked in a poll: “Will Djokovic officially become the GOAT by setting a new weeks at No.1 record?” A total of 4,712 readers answered with 2,594 voting ‘yes’, which was 476 more than said ‘no’ (2,118), giving Djokovic the edge in the ongoing GOAT debate.

Djokovic is well ahead of Nadal in terms of weeks at world No.1, with the Spaniard spending 209 weeks at the summit during his career. The Spaniard also has to climb back up the rankings after dropping out of the world top-10 last week for the first time in 18 years.

Djokovic equalled Nadal’s record of 22 Grand Slam crowns by winning the Australian Open crown in January – a title he has won 10 times. After being beaten by Djokovic in the final 3-6, 6-7, 6-7 – runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas labelled his rival the GOAT.

“I’ve had the privilege to play a lot of high intensity matches,” said Tsitsipas in his runner-up speech. “But he’s (Djokovic) one of the greatest in sport and the greatest who has ever held a tennis racket, for sure. It’s been an unbelievable journey for you, I admire what you’ve done for sport and you make me a better player, so thank you.”

Djokovic and Nadal are both scheduled to begin their clay court seasons at the Monte Carlo Masters after an injury update was provided regarding the Spaniard by the tournament organiser. Federer retired last year after undergoing knee surgery – finishing his career on 20 Grand Slam crowns and could be left behind in the GOAT debate.

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Djokovic sent Nadal a French Open message last month as the Serbian highlighted his fellow 22-time Grand Slam winner as his biggest rival. “The rivalry that counts the most matches in the history of any rivalry in tennis,” Djokovic said.

An Express Sport poll asked: “Do you agree with Novak Djokovic that Rafael Nadal is his biggest rival?” A clear majority of 3,525 voted ‘yes’ while 1,307 said ‘no’ – supporting Djokovic’s theory.

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