Novak Djokovic lays down surprise challenge to Roger Federer in GOAT race

World No.2 Novak Djokovic may be approaching Rafael Nadal and all-time leader Roger Federer’s Grand Slam tally, but it isn’t his overall goal the Serbian is aiming to achieve.

Djokovic ignited the GOAT debate again when he won the Australian Open and Wimbledon in 2019 to take his overall Grand Slam tally to 16.

‘HYPOCRITE’: Margaret Court's controversial recognition call divides tennis world

He has also expressed his desire to one day finish above Federer (20) and Nadal (19) as the holder with the most titles to their name.

His Paris Masters trophy also helped him surpass Federer and Nadal in big title victories with 55.

But when Djokovic was asked what record he would like to break, his answer surprised.

“It’s hard to pick one. I think I would like to play tennis for a long time,” he said.

“So I don’t know how long that is going to be, but I wish to really play pretty long.

“So hopefully you’ll be seeing me for many more years.”

Djokovic chasing Federer’s records

Djokovic is six years younger than Federer and is tipped by many to overtake the Swiss maestro at the top of the Grand Slam summit.

But Nadal could be the first to overtake Federer after claiming two Grand Slams in 2019 - French Open and US Open - moving him the closest he has ever been to the record.

Federer holds a few age records as well, which includes the oldest World No.1 and oldest Grand Slam winner.