A “part of me left with them” when Andy Murray, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer retired, according to a nice message from Novak Djokovic.
Following the forthcoming Davis Cup Finals in Malaga, Rafael Nadal, 38, will likely hang up his racket. If the Netherlands defeats Spain, his final match could take place on November 19.
Djokovic is the only member of the Big Four generation of professional men’s tennis players remaining, as Federer and Murray have already announced their retirements. ‘I shared…’ On Friday, Djokovic replied, “You saw it on Instagram.” I said everything with meaning. The biggest opponent I’ve faced is [Nadal]. In my career, there has been no greater influence on me than the rivalry I had with him.
We knew that the moment was coming sooner than later. But it’s still a shock. When it came officially, also for Roger a few years ago when he announced retirement… Andy as well this year… it’s a bit overwhelming for me to be honest.
Djokovic, 37, enjoyed a blockbuster rivalry with Nadal and eventually moved past him for the most Grand Slam singles titles in the entire history of men’s tennis.
The Serbian posted on X: ‘Rafa, one post is not enough to express the respect I have for you and what you have done for our sport.
‘You have inspired millions of children to start playing tennis and I think that’s probably greatest achievement anyone can wish for.
Your tenacity, dedication, fighting spirit is going to be taught for decades. Your legacy will live forever.
‘Only you know what you had to endure to become 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 best possible farewell in Malaga with Davis Cup team of Spain. I will be there in person to pay respect to your stellar career.’
Nadal has experienced several significant losses to Djokovic throughout his career.
The 2012 Australian Open final was particularly heartbreaking for Nadal, who suffered defeat after nearly six hours on the court, in what became one of the longest finals in Grand Slam history.
That will undoubtedly be among Nadal’s most painful career losses as well as his defeat to Djokovic at the Olympic Games in Paris earlier this year at his favourite location, Roland-Garros.
Nadal had been hoping to clinch a medal in one his last-ever professional events but 24-time major champion Djokovic beat him 6-1 6-4 – moving 31-29 up in their overall head-to-head – before going on to clinch singles gold himself.
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