Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic have dominated the international tennis scene for more than a decade. But do the top three also have the best shots and prerequisites for a successful game? A New York Times poll now provides clarity.
The New York Times surveyed ten active players and 25 experts, including coaches and former athletes. In each category the participants were allowed to give three details, whereby it should be noted that in the final account the votes of the coaches and active participants had more weight than those of the other respondents.
Four years ago there had already been such a survey, at that time Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal dominated. Not surprisingly, nothing has changed to this day: Perhaps the three best players of all time occupy almost all of the top positions in the current survey.
For example, Federer lies ahead of his permanent competitor Rafael Nadal in the “best forehand” category. Interesting: While the Spaniard is in the lead for the coaches and former players in this area, the active tennis players consider the maestro’s forehand even more dangerous. In addition, the Swiss has the best net game of all individual players and the most sensitive hand of all professionals.
Novak Djokovic’s strengths lie in other areas. According to the majority opinion, the Serbian has the most compact two-handed backhand, the best mobility and the strongest return. The setback of the world number one also appears in the category “most fearsome blow” – but only in fourth place. Juan Martin del Potro’s forehand is leading in this classification.
Rafael Nadal was even ahead in four areas. The Majorcan has the most dangerous passing balls, the best stamina and the strongest mental abilities. In addition, the 17-time Grand Slam champion also leads in the category “to Play a match for your life.” Somewhat surprising: Behind Federer, the Spaniard has the best net game of all individual players.
Thus, the “top three” lead two thirds of the surveyed subareas: Only in the categories “one-handed backhand” (Stan Wawrinka), “first and second serve” (John Isner) and “most frightening blow” (Juan Martin del Potro) are other professionals in front. And none of the three legends has the “strangest blow” either. This award goes to Ernest’s Gulbis Vorhand.
Click here for the New York Times survey