"What Novak Djokovic has done does not tarnish what Roger Federer did" - Ivan Ljubicic compares Swiss to Michael Jordan for his influence on the sport

Roger Federer's former coach, Ivan Ljubicic, recently compared the Swiss great to NBA legend Michael Jordan in terms of the influence they had on their respective sports.

The GOAT debate in men's tennis has picked up pace once again following Novak Djokovic's third Roland Garros title earlier this year, the 23rd Major crown of his career. The 36-year-old is now ahead of Rafael Nadal in the Grand Slam tally, and with the Spaniard being at the tail end of his career and Federer already retired, it is almost certain that Djokovic will have the most Major titles when he retires.

Ljubicic, who coached Federer for six years, was recently asked about his opinion on who the best player in tennis history is. The Croat replied that although the debate is not objective, the best according to him is someone who has had the greatest impact on the sport.

He also touched upon Michael Jordan's legacy and said that despite the American not being the most successful, he is considered the greatest by many due to his unrivaled influence on basketball.

In the same vein, the former French Open semifinalist believes that Roger Federer's legacy and achievements will not lose their shine regardless of what Djokovic goes on to accomplish.

"You may not be objective in this. For me, the best is the one that has had the greatest impact on your sport," Ljubicic told Tages Anzeiger. "Novak is the most successful. It has all the statistics, but there is a difference between being the largest and the most successful."

"Michael Jordan was not the most successful, but everyone considers him the greatest for his influence on the sport. Not all of us have to agree. What Novak has done does not tarnish what Roger did," he added.

"I can't imagine Roger Federer being a coach" - Ivan Ljubicic

Nitto ATP Finals

Interestingly, Ivan Ljubicic further opined that he does not see Roger Federer as a coach in the future. Federer hung up his tennis boots in 2022 after playing his last match with Rafael Nadal in doubles at the Laver Cup in London.

In the same interview, Ljubicic said that he sees his former student becoming a mentor rather than a coach.

"I can't imagine him being a coach. I see him more as a mentor. He loves helping, but I don't see him wanting to make the commitment that being a coach requires. He likes to do many things," Ljubicic said.

Under Ljubicic's tutelage, Federer won three Grand Slam titles -- two Australian Opens and one Wimbledon. He also returned to the No. 1 ranking in 2018.

Since his retirement, Federer has seemingly been enjoying his life to the fullest. Recently, the Swiss was honored at the Centre Court of Wimbledon and was in the Royal Box watching players such as Andy Murray and Elena Rybakina in action.