Novak Djokovic is the last of the ‘big three’ still competing on the ATP Tour, as he continues his pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title.
His old rivals, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, called it a day on their legendary careers in 2022 and 2024, respectively.
Djokovic secured a winning record against both Federer and Nadal, leading the Swiss star 27-32, and the Spaniard 31-29.
The Serb has always had an up-and-down relationship with the other two greats, which he once explained in depth.
When Novak Djokovic explained his relationship with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal
When asked in a 2023 interview with 60 Minutes if he saw himself having dinner with his two rivals in the future, Djokovic responded: “I would like to.
“I would really like to personally. I would like to. I mean, I know that obviously didn’t get along so well throughout our careers.
“Off the court, we are not friends because, you know, we’re rivals and it’s difficult. As competitors, to be very close, give insights into your life or to how you feel, because it could be used against you.
“The greatest respect is always there, at least for my side towards them.
“So, yeah, I hope that one day, when the curtains are slightly more closed, that we are able to sit down and reflect, it will be amazing.”
Djokovic appears to have softened this stance now and has since appeared at Nadal’s tribute ceremony at Roland Garros, where the three legends were reunited.
Roger Federer’s first impression of Novak Djokovic
In his 2024 documentary, ‘Federer: Twelve Final Days‘, the 20-time major champion said of his first meeting with Djokovic: “Even though there was some hype around him, I wasn’t fully convinced.
“I think I didn’t give Novak the respect he deserved because of his technical flaws.
“I felt like Novak had a very extreme forehand grip and his backhand for me wasn’t as fluid as it is nowadays.
“But then he ironed those things out super well and became an unbelievable monster of a player.”
Federer won their first clash, which came in 2006 at the Monte-Carlo Masters.
Receive exclusive tennis news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
