As Rafael Nadal prepares to retire from professional tennis at the end of the 2024 season, the Spanish legend has opened up about his relationships with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, his greatest rivals. Speaking to DAZN, Nadal emphasized that his connections with the iconic duo extend beyond their fierce on-court battles, highlighting the importance of camaraderie and respect in their long-standing careers.
Nadal, who has won 22 Grand Slam titles, shared much of his time at the top of the sport with Federer and Djokovic, a trio that collectively dominated tennis for nearly two decades. Together, they have claimed an astonishing 66 major titles, with the rivalry between them producing some of the most memorable moments in tennis history.
With his retirement on the horizon, Nadal reflected on the personal relationships he formed with his fellow greats. “With Roger, I have a special relationship, but with Novak too I have a good relationship,” Nadal explained. He emphasized that while tennis may be the stage for their battles, life and relationships go beyond the sport, creating a deeper bond.
Nadal acknowledged how their fierce competition helped elevate their performances, stating that the presence of such high-level opponents always pushed him to improve. “Playing against Novak has always been a big challenge, and Roger as well. They’ve both pushed me to the highest level,” Nadal said.
As Nadal prepares to step away from the game, his respect and admiration for Federer and Djokovic remain a testament to the profound impact their rivalries have had—not just on their careers, but on the sport itself.
Rafael Nadal in 2024
Ranked no.153, the Spaniard played his last match on the 29th of July when he lost to world no.4 Novak Djokovic 6-1 6-4 in the 2nd round in Paris (draw).
Until now, during this year the Spaniard has a 12-7 record. Rafael Nadal’s most significant performance of the present year was getting to the final in Bastad.
Rafael Nadal |
| Embed from Getty Images |
Rafael Nadal in 2024
Currently ranked no.153, Rafael played his last match on the 29th of July when he was defeated by world no.4 Novak Djokovic 6-1 6-4 in the 2nd round in Paris (draw).
During this season the Spaniard owns an overall 12-7 record. Rafael Nadal’s best accomplishment of this year was getting to the final in Bastad.
Rafael Nadal |
| Embed from Getty Images |