Rafael Nadal believes Novak Djokovic is the greatest tennis player of all time. On 30 June, Nadal reiterated his stance, saying Djokovic's numbers make a strong case for his status as the best.
What happened?
Djokovic began his Wimbledon campaign by beating Wu Yibing in four sets. He is bidding to win a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam and move level with Roger Federer on eight SW19 titles.
Why it matters for Rafael Nadal
Nadal, who has won 22 Grand Slams and a record 14 French Open titles, says Djokovic will continue to fight for the most important titles if his body allows it. Nadal told CNBC Sport that Djokovic's motivation and passion for the sport are key factors in his success.
What comes next?
Djokovic faces Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas in the second round of Wimbledon. World number one Jannik Sinner is the heavy favourite to win a fifth Grand Slam and second Wimbledon title at SW19. Sinner overcame a scare in his Wimbledon opener, twice finding himself behind and recovering from a couple of heavy falls to beat Miomir Kecmanovic.
Nadal thinks Djokovic's chances of winning depend on his physical condition. He said: 'While he maintains that motivation and his body allows it, he will continue to have chances to fight for the most important tournaments.'
Djokovic's record is impressive, with 24 Grand Slam titles already under his belt. Nadal believes that Djokovic's numbers make him the greatest tennis player of all time.
The emergence of current superstars Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz has raised doubt over Djokovic's ability to claim the 25th major he craves. But Nadal is confident that Djokovic will continue to compete at a high level.
Nadal also commented on the chances of Sinner and Alcaraz emulating the big three. He said: 'I don't know. I mean, you need to play well for a super long time.'
The Wimbledon tournament is ongoing, with Djokovic and Sinner both still in contention. The outcome of the tournament will be closely watched, as Djokovic bids to make history and Sinner looks to defend his title.
On 30 June, Nadal's comments sparked debate about who is the greatest tennis player of all time. The discussion is likely to continue, with Djokovic's performance at Wimbledon being closely watched.
Djokovic's next match is against Stefanos Tsitsipas, while Sinner takes on Portugal's Nuno Borges. The tournament is heating up, with several top players still in contention.
Nadal's comments have added to the excitement surrounding the tournament. His opinion on Djokovic's status as the greatest tennis player of all time has sparked interest and debate among fans and pundits alike.
The Wimbledon tournament will continue to be closely watched, with Djokovic and Sinner both looking to make history. The outcome of the tournament will be eagerly anticipated, as the top players battle it out for the title.