Jack Draper concluded the 2024 tennis season ranked in the top 15 for the first time in his career, having secured two ATP titles. As he looks forward to the upcoming season, the young British player is currently sidelined from the United Cup due to hip discomfort but remains hopeful for a strong recovery ahead of the Australian Open.
In a recent discussion, Draper addressed the ongoing debate about the greatest of all time (GOAT) in tennis, revealing a personal connection to both Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. Draper expressed a heartfelt admiration for Nadal, citing his own childhood idolization of the Spanish left-hander, even emulating his style and attire. However, he acknowledged Djokovic’s remarkable achievements, labeling him the most successful player in tennis history.
Nadal, who has won 22 Grand Slam titles from 2005 to 2022, faced significant challenges in 2021 but rebounded in 2022, capturing both the Australian Open and Roland Garros. This success propelled him ahead of both Roger Federer and Djokovic in the Grand Slam count. However, an abdominal injury at Wimbledon hindered his performance for the remainder of the year, leading to a second-place finish behind Carlos Alcaraz in the rankings.
The start of 2023 proved difficult for Nadal, who sustained a severe hip injury at the Australian Open, requiring surgery and sidelining him for the rest of the season. Determined to end his career on his own terms, Nadal returned to competition in early 2024, achieving two wins in Brisbane before losing in the quarter-finals. Further injuries hampered his performance, resulting in a disappointing exit from Roland Garros, where he lost in the first round to Alexander Zverev.
Nadal’s final Olympic appearance in Paris saw him face Djokovic in a highly anticipated second-round match, where Djokovic triumphed. After missing the US Open and Laver Cup, Nadal announced his retirement in October, ultimately competing in the Davis Cup Finals, where he lost to Botic van de Zandschulp in his last match.
Meanwhile, Djokovic continued to solidify his GOAT status, winning Wimbledon in 2022 and achieving an impressive run in 2023 with three Grand Slam titles, bringing his total to 24. His victories included a tenth Australian Open title and a third Roland Garros crown, making him the first player to win three titles at all four Grand Slam tournaments. However, he fell short in the Wimbledon final against Alcaraz and struggled to maintain that momentum in 2024.
As he prepares for the 2025 season, Djokovic has added Andy Murray to his coaching team, aiming to enhance his chances of securing more Grand Slam titles.
Reflecting on the GOAT debate, Draper stated, “Who is the best player of all time? My heart is with Rafael Nadal. Growing up, I mirrored Rafa with every kit and new look. He is a left-hander like me and was iconic in my early years. However, if you ask my head about the GOAT, it’s obviously Novak Djokovic.”
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