Novak Djokovic reveals how Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer retirements impacted him - 'A big part of me left with them'
Published 11/10/2024 at 15:20 GMT+1
The 'Big Three' era is over. The trio of Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal dominated men's tennis for 20 years, sweeping up 66 Grand Slam titles between them. However, with the news that Nadal is joining Federer in retirement, only Djokovic will still be playing in 2025. Djokovic has spoken about Nadal and what it means for him to be the last of the 'Big Three' playing tennis.
2021 French Open highlights: Djokovic overcomes Nadal in classic battle in Paris
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Novak Djokovic admitted “a big part of me left with them” as he reflected on how the retirements of Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer have impacted him.
The 'Big Three' of Djokovic, Nadal and Federer have dominated men's tennis for the last 20 years, but will soon be left with just one active member.
Nadal has announced that he will soon be following Federer into retirement, playing his last tournament at the Davis Cup Finals in November.
That will leave Djokovic, 37, as the only remaining ‘Big Three’ player on the ATP Tour.
Speaking about Nadal’s retirement after reaching the Shanghai Masters semi-finals, Djokovic said: “He’s been my greatest rival, the rivalry I had with him has impacted me the most in my career by far.
“We knew that the moment is coming sooner than later but it’s still a shock when it came officially, also for Roger a few years ago when he announced his retirement and Andy [Murray] this year, it’s a bit overwhelming for me to be honest. I don’t know what to make of it.
“I still enjoy competing but part of me left with them, big part of me, so it’s tough news for the tennis world, sports world.
“Nadal is an inspiration to millions of children around the world and he can be very proud of his career.”
Djokovic and Nadal faced off 60 times, with their final meeting at the Paris Olympics.
Djokovic, who shaded the head-to-head record 31-29, thanked Nadal on social media for pushing him to the “very limit”.
"Your legacy will live forever,” wrote Djokovic.
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Iconic moment as Djokovic coaches Federer and Nadal at Laver Cup
Video credit: TNT Sports
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“Only you know what you had to endure to become an icon of tennis and sport in general. Thank you for pushing me to the very limit so many times in our rivalry that has impacted me the most as a player.
“Your passion for representing Spain has always been remarkable. I wish you the best possible farewell in Malaga with the Davis Cup team of Spain. I will be there in person to pay respect to your stellar career.”
Federer admitted he “hoped this day would never come” with regards to Nadal’s retirement.
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