Ishan Mehta - Major Project 1: Podcast (Tennis GOAT)

The question of whether Novak Djokovic is the greatest tennis player of all time is still debated. He has an impressive record with 24 grand slam titles and numerous career titles. However, his behavior on and off the court has affected his public image. Some argue that his numbers make him the GOAT, while others believe that charisma and humility are important factors. Ultimately, it's up to the fans to decide. Good evening folks, today I have a question that has already set the tennis world ablaze, but still remains unanswered. I for one am a huge tennis fan. The only time my television is on is if Jeopardy is airing or one of the grand slams is taking place. A grand slam refers to the biggest international tournaments of the year. There are four played annually, the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open. To win even one of these tournaments is to be on top of the tennis world. Now imagine doing that 20 times, or how about 22 times, or maybe even 24. Well there have been a lot of up and coming players, young, unbridled athletes to carry on the legacy of tennis. However, in the modern era, say from the year 2000 till recently, there have been primarily three men to absolutely dominate. Everyone knows Federer. 20 grand slams, ambassador of Nike, polished and smooth on court. He had the charisma, and even when he took up a problem with the umpire, the crowd always seemed on his side. This was American tennis legend John McEnroe's message to Federer before he retired. The guy was loved, and he had an unparalleled personality. Then we have Nadal, the king of clay, an absolute machine on the court. He has an energy that disseminates to the room the second he steps into the arena. Humility and grit defined him best. Even his foes acknowledge his prowess and drive. And then there's Jokovic. Athleticism, craftsmanship, and vigor are of the highest quality. And according to the stats, he is the best. 24 grand slams, 98 career titles, and ranked world number one for over 410 weeks, spanning 13 different years. As a tennis player, it just does not get any more decorated than this. And that's where we come to the big question. Despite the legendary shot making and undeniable success, does the coveted title of GOAT, or greatest of all time, truly belong to Jokovic? To those who look at the numbers, it's an easy answer. By far, he is the GOAT. But ultimately, the fans decide. Humility, respect, charisma, these qualities are tantamount to tangible success in the sport. The fact of the matter is, he just doesn't have the same aura as his competitors. Sly comments, racket smashing, and arrogance gets the best of him. At least in the eyes of the public. That right there was the sound of Jokovic breaking his racket out of frustration. It is important for a champion to emblematize the highest order of poise and esteem. And for a lot of people, these sort of consistently belligerent behaviors don't reflect that. But there is the other side to it. Jokovic is constantly gilding the lily. He wants to be the best of the best, and if that comes at the expense of fan popularity and conventionally acceptable behavior, so be it. In the words of a fellow tennis enthusiast, the public can criticize, the crowd can boo, and the umpire can whine, but he's got a tunnel vision to win. And so there you have it. Undoubtedly, he deserves praise and commendation for such immeasurable success. Does what he has in numbers make up for what he lacks in personality? Does it even matter whether he has that charismatic air when it comes to the discussion of the GOAT? Well, we'll leave that for you to decide. That was a fun rally. Thank you for listening, and I'll see you next time.