Patrick Mouratoglou, one of the most successful and well-known coaches in the tennis world, recently made an intriguing revelation: if he had the chance to choose among the legendary Big Three of Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer, he would have opted to coach Djokovic. Mouratoglou’s reasoning reflects not just his admiration for Djokovic’s skill, but also his foresight in predicting that the Serbian star would rise to become the greatest player of all time.
In an exclusive interview with Talking Tennis, Mouratoglou, who has worked with some of the biggest names in the sport, including Serena Williams, Simona Halep, and Coco Gauff, explained his rationale. His insight, based on years of experience in professional tennis, reveals a deep understanding of Djokovic’s unique attributes that separate him from his equally iconic rivals.
Mouratoglou’s Vision: Djokovic as the Greatest
When asked which of the Big Three he would have most liked to coach, Mouratoglou didn’t hesitate: “Any of the three, I would have liked for sure; if I had to pick one, I would pick Novak.” Mouratoglou’s choice of Djokovic might not come as a shock to those who have followed his career, as the French coach has long admired Djokovic’s qualities and potential. His prediction that Djokovic would eventually surpass both Nadal and Federer came as early as when Djokovic had “only” 15 Grand Slam titles—a number that, while impressive, pales in comparison to the record-breaking 24 titles Djokovic holds today.
Mouratoglou emphasized that Djokovic’s long-term health and physical condition were major factors in his prediction. While Federer and Nadal have battled injuries throughout their careers, Djokovic’s body has been remarkably resilient. Mouratoglou pointed out that Djokovic’s body was “healthier than the two others’,” which gave him an advantage in longevity. Federer, plagued by knee issues in the latter part of his career, retired in 2022, while Nadal, who has struggled with chronic injuries, is facing increasing uncertainty about his future on the tour.
Djokovic’s Motivation and Mentality
According to Mouratoglou, Djokovic’s unrelenting motivation to become the greatest was another key factor that made him stand out from his legendary peers. “I feel that his motivation to become the greatest was so huge,” Mouratoglou said. Indeed, Djokovic has often spoken about his desire to break records and push the limits of the sport, an ambition that has driven him to reach unparalleled heights.
This relentless drive is something Mouratoglou values highly in a player, especially one competing at the top level. He observed that Djokovic’s focus on accumulating Grand Slam titles was a critical factor in his success. “If you looked at how many Grand Slams per year he was winning, I thought at some point he was gonna become the greatest, and he did it,” Mouratoglou remarked. Djokovic’s consistency in performing at the highest level, year after year, has solidified his status as the most dominant player in tennis history.
Djokovic’s Record-Breaking Achievements
Mouratoglou’s admiration for Djokovic is rooted not only in his foresight but also in the undeniable achievements that Djokovic has accumulated over the years. With 24 Grand Slam titles, Djokovic stands as the undisputed leader in men’s tennis. His triumphs have come on all surfaces, and his versatility is unmatched. From his ten Australian Open titles to his victories at Wimbledon, Roland Garros, and the US Open, Djokovic has mastered the game in a way few others have.
What sets Djokovic apart, in Mouratoglou’s eyes, is not just the number of Grand Slams but the consistency with which he has won them, especially as his career has progressed. Despite the intense competition from both younger players like Carlos Alcaraz and seasoned rivals like Nadal, Djokovic has maintained an extraordinary level of performance.
Mouratoglou also pointed out the importance of achievements in determining who the greatest of all time truly is. “I’m not saying he’s playing better than the others,” Mouratoglou explained. “I don’t want to be offensive to the others when I say that. But at some point, to name someone the greatest, it has to be with achievements. And in terms of achievements, he’s the greatest.” Indeed, Djokovic’s dominance in the major tournaments and his ability to deliver when it matters most have placed him in a category of his own.
A Coach’s Perspective
Mouratoglou’s career has been built on coaching top-level players, helping them achieve their full potential. From guiding Serena Williams to multiple Grand Slam titles to recently working with Naomi Osaka, he has proven his ability to bring out the best in his athletes. Mouratoglou has always been known for his strategic mind and his ability to adapt his coaching methods to the individual needs of his players.
His work with Djokovic, had it happened, would likely have been a fascinating partnership. Djokovic, known for his meticulous preparation and focus on mental and physical conditioning, shares many traits that Mouratoglou values in a player. Both have a relentless commitment to perfection and a desire to constantly improve. It’s not hard to imagine that, had they worked together, Djokovic might have reached even greater heights.
Mouratoglou’s Recent Coaching Moves
Though Mouratoglou never had the opportunity to coach Djokovic, he continues to work with elite-level talent. After parting ways with Holger Rune in July 2024, Mouratoglou began coaching four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka. Osaka, a former world No. 1, has struggled with form and consistency in recent years, but under Mouratoglou’s guidance, she is aiming to return to the top of the sport.
Mouratoglou’s extensive experience working with the likes of Serena Williams, Simona Halep, and Coco Gauff has made him one of the most sought-after coaches in tennis. His ability to foster mental toughness, combined with his strategic acumen, has been a key factor in the success of his players. As he embarks on this new chapter with Osaka, many are eager to see whether Mouratoglou can help her rediscover the form that made her one of the most dominant players in the women’s game.
Patrick Mouratoglou’s choice to coach Novak Djokovic over Roger Federer or Rafael Nadal speaks volumes about his understanding of the game and his ability to recognize greatness. Mouratoglou’s belief in Djokovic’s longevity, physical health, and unyielding motivation to be the best has proven to be accurate as Djokovic now stands as the most successful male tennis player in history.
Though Mouratoglou never had the chance to coach Djokovic, his admiration for the Serbian star is clear. As Djokovic continues to set new records and cement his legacy, Mouratoglou’s prediction that he would become the greatest has come to fruition.
