In a candid reflection on the game’s most iconic rivalries, Novak Djokovic recently shared his views on what made Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal such unique and dominant forces in tennis.
Describing Federer, Djokovic praised the Swiss maestro’s effortless grace and technical precision. “He moved lightly, so elegantly, so efficiently,” he said, emphasizing Federer’s distinctive flair and innate talent. Federer’s playing style has often been lauded for its seamless blend of beauty and effectiveness, earning admiration from fans and players alike.
In stark contrast, Djokovic characterized Nadal as a player of sheer physical dominance. Nadal’s relentless drive and unmatched intensity on court created a different kind of spectacle—one rooted in endurance, power, and grit. “Nadal was the opposite extreme,” Djokovic noted. His clay-court mastery and tireless energy set a new benchmark in the sport.
Djokovic identified his own style as a hybrid of the two, leaning more towards Nadal’s approach with heavy sliding, deep baseline rallies, and high physical engagement. This balance has contributed to his sustained success and his adaptability across all surfaces.
This is what he said: “Federer is the most talented one, the most beautiful to watch. He moved lightly, so elegantly, so efficiently. Nadal was the opposite extreme: dominated physically. I was somewhere in between but I leaned more towards Nadal: more sliding, more running, baseline-focused play.”
The Serb’s reflections paint a vivid picture of how each player carved out their legacy in distinct ways, and how their presence continually pushed him to evolve. It’s a rare glimpse into how a champion views his peers—not just as rivals, but as forces who shaped his own journey.
"Federer is the most talented one, the most beautiful to watch. He moved lightly, so elegantly, so efficiently.
Nadal was the opposite extreme: dominated physically. I was somewhere in between but I leaned more towards Nadal: more sliding, more running, baseline-focused play." pic.twitter.com/j4xy2YwpeS
— Dan Gernez (@GernezDan) June 15, 2025
Novak Djokovic in 2025
LWWWWWLWWW At the moment ranked no.5, the Serbian played his last match on the 6th of June when he capitulated to world no.1 Jannik Sinner 6-4 7-5 7-6(3) in the semifinal of the French Open (draw).
During this season Novak owns a composed 21-8 match record. The Serbian has won 1 title in Geneva. Novak was the runner-up in Miami.
