Is it generally acknowledged that Ili Nastase had the best natural tennis talent but never used it?

Question

I have heard people say that he would have been the greatest if only he were stable. What do you say to this? Agree or disagree?

Answer 1

Having watched Nastase play I agree we was very talented and didn't use it to its full extent.  But the best natural tennis talent ever, no, I don't think so.

When a guy plays an out of his mind match folks overrate the experience.  If he could do that every time, he would.  Think Safin today - very talented yes, and I love watching him play when he is on.  On any given day, the best, yes.  The best over time, or of all time, not hardly.  Same for Nastase.

Answer 2

yeah, that could be true, he did have great talent.  don't forget, he was also a great character.  one day at wimbledon, there was a light rain falling, and ilie thought the game should be called off, but the referee didn't agree.  then, as he was receiving, he took an umbrella from someone in the front row, held it up with one hand, while having his racket in his other hand ready to receive.  his opponent on the day nearly had hysterics when he looked up and saw that, just before he served!

Answer 3

Nastase was certainly a talented player.    I suspect, though, that his manner on court was, at least, partly showmanship.  He was incredibly 'entertaining', and his sense of humour is sadly missed today!  

Who says he 'never used' his talent for tennis?  It HAS been said that if he took the game 'more seriously', he might have done better.  I don't really agree, and I fail to see why everyone HAS TO behave like a dedicated brain surgeon when they are playing a game!  

Nastase was quite successful in his career, particularly as he was 'quite mediocre' on lawn.   To single out his fine sense of humour as a 'reason' for him never quite reaching 'the top' is preposterous.   I saw him play often, and his game was hardly up to regular victory over, e.g., John Newcombe.  (Who also displayed a very highly developed sense of humour!)

Answer 4

I don't know about "natural" talent, but he was a very good player - great fun to watch.  Maybe he could have done better, but I don't think he could ever have been "the greatest".