Rafael Nadal believes he would have more Grand Slam titles if he had not been competing in the same era as Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.
The Spaniard won his 19th major tournament at the US Open last month which takes him three ahead of Djokovic’s tally and one behind Federer’s record.
But the world No 3 has found it difficult playing in the same era as two of the greatest players of all time.
“For the number of victories it has not been positive to have coincided with them,” Nadal told Spanish publication El Mundo.
However, there have also been positives as he has been made to raise his game to unfathomable levels.
Nadal added: “At the level of personal demand, of course.
“When you have clear references ahead, evolution is easier and it is easier to understand the path you need to achieve success.
“We are the ones who to date have won the most Grand Slams and we agree at the same time.
“It is a unique and unique time, and for me it is a great satisfaction to be part of it.”
Meanwhile, Nadal also confirmed he plans to compete for his country at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games.
“I have always been to the Olympic Games with great enthusiasm,” he said.
“I am a person who lives them in a very special way, with an intensity and an illusion very difficult to explain.
“My intention is to go to Tokyo in what could be my last Games. Hopefully the physicist will allow it.”
But first Nadal will return to action at the Paris Masters next week before traveling to London for the ATP Finals.
His season draws to a close in Madrid for the Davis Cup finals next month.
