Former Alpine ski racer Lindsey Vonn was forced to defend her remarks about Roger Federer’s GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) status after facing backlash for the perceived slight to Novak Djokovic.

Vonn recently penned a heartfelt message on social media, recounting her memorable experience of hitting the slopes with Federer. She gushed over the former World No. 1, deeming him to be the “forever GOAT” for his immeasurable impact on the sport, regardless of his statistics compared to other players.

“Normally, people you look up to always let you down in one way or another, but not Roger [Federer]. Rog is the epitome of a true sportsman and champion in every sense of the word. We’ve been talking about skiing together for such a long time I wasn’t sure if it would happen…. But here we are; retired, skiing and enjoying life! Thanks for this memory Rog,” she posted on X (formerly Twitter).

“You and your family are truly one of a kind and no matter what the statistics say (or Leo lol) you’re the forever GOAT because it takes a lot more than numbers to make the kind of impact you have, I’m just one of millions. Cheers my friend,” she added.

However, Vonn was subjected to backlash for her remarks, especially from Novak Djokovic fans, who took offense at her disregarding the statistics to praise the Swiss legend as the GOAT.

The American ultimately deleted her post in response to the criticism but clarified that she made that choice to not allow the negative comments to tarnish her pleasant memory. She also emphasized that her post wasn’t intended as a comparison between Federer and other players and asserted that the former World No. 1 could be her GOAT irrespective of other people’s opinions.

“I wasn’t forced, I just didn’t want the negative comments ruining my memory. And the post wasn’t a comparison, it was a tribute to my friend who has made a big impact in my life. Everyone just freaks out when the term goat is used. He can be my goat no matter what other people think,” she posted on X.

Vonn further contended that the title of the GOAT was “subjective,” as everyone had different criteria for determining the greatest player.

“GOAT or greatest of all time is a subjective title. What makes someone great? Is it statistics? Is it records? Is it impact? Is it character? Is it all of the above? People have differences of opinion and that’s OK. My goat might not be your goat and there will always be a debate but opinions are just that, opinions, and everyone is entitled to them,” she posted further.