Roger Federer stands in a “category apart” when compared to Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, according to esteemed tennis figure Ion Tiriac.
Nearly two years have passed since Federer retired at the Laver Cup in 2022, yet the Swiss legend’s influence on the sport remains profound.
Throughout his illustrious career, the 43-year-old spent 310 weeks as the world No. 1, secured 20 Grand Slam singles titles, won a Davis Cup for Switzerland, and claimed 103 ATP Tour singles titles. Federer’s elegance on the court has earned him a global following, as reflected in the documentary 12 Final Days, released earlier this year.
While Federer’s career is often defined by his intense rivalries with Nadal and Djokovic—both of whom have since surpassed his Grand Slam tally—Tiriac, a former player, agent, and tournament owner, believes Federer is distinct in one crucial aspect. “I actually know very little about Roger Federer, but he always respected me,” Tiriac remarked. “Like the other stars on the tour, he calls me the chef.
“I genuinely believe he is in a category of his own when compared to Nadal or Djokovic, for example. He’s a player who invented things on a tennis court that didn’t exist before.
“Physically, he might have been a bit behind Djokovic and Nadal, but the talent in his hands was undeniable.”
Federer faced Nadal 40 times, with a head-to-head record of 16-24, and played Djokovic 60 times, holding a 23-27 record against the current world No. 2.
Though recent years have seen Nadal, a 22-time major champion, and Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam winner, edge ahead in the GOAT debate, Federer’s legacy remains unparalleled.
ESPN’s ranking of the 100 greatest sports stars of this century placed Federer higher than both of his rivals, with the Swiss maestro ranked sixth, Djokovic in 11th, and Nadal in 12th.
