‘One has 22 Grand Slams, one has only one’ – Bartoli says Djokovic is the best in the world ahead of Alcaraz

In the latest episode of Match Points, the panel spoke to host Josh Cohen about who they believe to be the true world No 1

Carrie Dunn

April 10, 2023

Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz have been trading the world No 1 spot in recent months – but a former Wimbledon champion says it’s very clear which one of them is the best in the world.

Marion Bartoli said in the latest episode of Match Points, Tennis Majors’ panel discussion show, that the Serbian deserves his ranking.

“It’s very simple – it’s Novak Djokovic [who is the true world No 1],” she said.

“I’m not saying Carlos Alcaraz didn’t deserve the results he’s had, he obviously played tremendous tennis. It’s great to see that those kids are taking over and making sure the ATP has a really bright future ahead.

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Tennis Majors

“For now, you have one guy who has 22 Grand Slams and another one who has one Grand Slam. It’s very easy to say who is No 1. But I’m looking forward to the clay and to Wimbledon ahead to see when both of them are able to play those events, if they go toe to toe, who will be the best.”

Rothenberg: This is a generational moment

Reflecting on the quirks of fitness and schedule that have kept Alcaraz and Djokovic apart so far in 2023, journalist Ben Rotherberg added: “It’s closer than Marion made it sound!”

He said that he hoped that the two would get the chance to face each other later in the year, saying: “If they were to play each other on a clay court in Madrid, let’s say, I think I’d pick Djokovic.

“I just hope they play each other more and more. I hope they get the chance to build up a bit of a rivalry. This is a real torch-passing generational moment.”

Fellow journalist Simon Cambers agreed, explaining: “I think Alcaraz is taking the game to a new level – dragging a few other people along with him. But who’s to say that Novak won’t be able to take care of him when they play each other?”