"Even if he breaks all the records, there will always be a debate" - Nicolas Mahut on Novak Djokovic breaking the World No. 1 record

Nicolas Mahut, a former World No. 1 in doubles, recently reacted to Novak Djokovic breaking the World No. 1 record.

Djokovic has achieved another historic milestone in his career, surpassing Steffi Graf’s all-time record for most weeks by a men's or women's tennis player as World No. 1.

The Serb already held the record for the most weeks as No. 1 in the history of the ATP Rankings when he surpassed Roger Federer's 310-week record in March 2021. He has now surpassed Graf by beginning his 378th week at the top of the rankings.

Reacting to the milestone, Nicolas Mahut stated in an interview with L'equipe that there will always be a debate when it comes to Djokovic in the GOAT conversation, even if he breaks all the world records. The Frenchman asserted that the same would not be the case with Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. Mahut went on to say that he believes the Serb is underappreciated for his value.

"Even if he breaks all the records, there will always be a debate (GOAT), which would not be the case if it was Federer or Nadal. Novak is not appreciated at his fair value. I find unfair criticism of all that he has accomplished," Mahut said.

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"It's surreal in a way to be that many weeks world No. 1, to match Steffi Graf" - Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic pictured at the 2023 Australian Open trophy photoshoot.

Novak Djokovic told reporters in Dubai that he never expected to break the World No. 1 record of all time but always strived to achieve more.

"Well, I could not have imagined it at that point, to be honest. I was dreaming as a kid to be Wimbledon champion, to be No. 1 in the world. I achieved those dreams 2011. After that, of course, I wanted more. I still want more achievements," he said.

Djokovic attributed his achievement to his dedication to the sport.

"Of course, I'm driven by the goals. I'm as dedicated to the sport really as anybody else. I obviously know that it's not handed to me, that I have to earn it," he added.

The 35-year-old added that it is "surreal" to match Steffi Graf's record, who he considers to be one of the all-time greats in both men's and women's tennis combined.

"Of course, it's surreal in a way to be that many weeks world No. 1, to match Steffi Graf, that is one of the all-time greats of our sport, both men and women. Just being amongst these legendary names is flattering. Of course, I'm very proud of it," he said.

Novak Djokovic will next compete in the Dubai Tennis Championships, where he will face Tomas Machac in the Round of 32 on Tuesday, February 28.