Novak Djokovic has recently opened up about his feelings towards his long-time rival, Rafael Nadal, while also expressing his surprise at the presence of Roger Federer and Andy Murray at Nadal’s upcoming tribute at the French Open. This reunion of the “Big Four” promises to be a momentous occasion for tennis fans worldwide.
A Heartfelt Tribute to Nadal
Rafael Nadal, one of the greatest tennis players of all time, is set to receive a special tribute at the 2025 French Open. This tribute acknowledges Nadal’s remarkable achievements, particularly his record 14 titles at Roland Garros. Djokovic, Federer, and Murray will join the ceremony, marking a rare reunion of the Big Four.
Djokovic expressed his sentiments, stating, “It will be a very special, very emotional moment for everyone. Along with Federer and Murray, we will be there for the ceremony. It will be a beautiful moment.”
Nadal was initially approached for a tribute last year. However, he declined, as he was still considering his future in tennis. This year, he accepted the offer, explaining that the deep connection he feels with Paris and Roland Garros made it the perfect place for such an event.
Nadal said, “I’ve felt appreciated and loved in Paris, in France in general, and that’s something unforgettable. So it’s a nice moment to say goodbye, and I kind of wanted to do no other tribute elsewhere, to give priority to Roland-Garros.”
Djokovic’s Struggle After Nadal’s Davis Cup Finals Retirement
Djokovic has often cited Nadal as his biggest rival. Following Nadal’s retirement at the 2024 Davis Cup Finals, Djokovic admitted to experiencing a lack of motivation.
“Yes, it was hard to stay motivated without him (Nadal). Honestly, I didn’t think it would be like this. A part of me left with him, and it was a challenge to get my motivation back,” Djokovic confessed.
He further elaborated on the impact of Nadal’s absence: “When Rafa quit, I felt something I’d never felt before. I thought, ‘What do I do now?’ There was a bit of that, especially on the court where I felt flat. Off the court, I feel like it didn’t impact me in the same way. But after six months, I think I can say it’s better.”
Djokovic has since found new sources of inspiration to fuel his competitive drive.
The Big Four: A Bond Beyond Rivalry
The reunion of Djokovic, Nadal, Federer, and Murray at the French Open tribute highlights the unique bond these players share. They dominated men’s tennis for nearly two decades, creating unforgettable rivalries and pushing each other to achieve greatness. Their last appearance together was at the 2022 Laver Cup. This was where Federer bid a tearful farewell to the sport.
Andy Murray’s head-to-head records against the Big Three:
- Novak Djokovic: 11-25
- Rafael Nadal: 7-17
- Roger Federer: 11-14
Despite their fierce on-court battles, the Big Four have always maintained a deep respect for each other. Their presence at Nadal’s tribute underscores the camaraderie and mutual admiration that exists among these legends.
Quotes About Their Better Halves
- Roger Federer: Federer’s wife, Mirka, was also a tennis player. The two met at the Sydney Olympics in 2000 and got married in 2009. They have four children together. Federer has often acknowledged the important role his wife has played in his career and life in general.
- “Being a husband is for me as big a priority as being a father.”
- “She also taught me what discipline is, because she is incredibly disciplined; I was more the player, the artist, if you will, and I needed guidance in that aspect.”
- Novak Djokovic: Djokovic married Jelena Ristic in 2014. He acknowledges the importance of the support she provides him. He has often had nice things to say about his wife.
Nadal’s Legacy: More Than Just Victories
Rafael Nadal’s career is defined not only by his numerous titles but also by his fighting spirit, humility, and sportsmanship. His impact on the sport extends far beyond the court, inspiring millions with his unwavering dedication and positive attitude.
Some of Nadal’s memorable quotes:
- “I play each point like my life depends on it.”
- “Winning would be amazing. The rest—being number one, number two—it doesn’t matter. I always try to play my best.”
- “The glory is being happy. The glory is not winning here or winning there. The glory is enjoying practice, enjoying every day, enjoying working hard, trying to be a better player than before.”
- “Success is not the victory, but everything you have overcome in order to win.”
- “I enjoyed today’s final. I suffered, but I enjoyed it.”
- “My biggest rival is the next one.”
- “We have a lot of respect for each other. We’ve played a lot of times. I think we did important things for tennis, and we appreciate that.” — On his rivalry with Roger Federer.
- “Enduring means accepting. Accepting things as they are and not as you wish them to be. And then looking ahead. And not behind.”
- “You can’t overcome doubts, you always live with them. What you can do is give your best every day.” — On how he uses self-doubt as motivation to work hard.
Federer’s Perspective
Federer, known for his elegant style and sportsmanship, has also shared his thoughts on Nadal.
Federer on Nadal: “It could get into my mind. I could start thinking, ‘I can’t play against this guy, his game doesn’t suit me’. I could start accepting the fact that I have been losing against him, but that would be a bad thing for me to do.”
Murray’s Comeback and Reflections
Andy Murray, who has faced numerous injury challenges throughout his career, has also provided insightful comments about competing against the Big Three.
Murray stated: “They were alright weren’t they? They weren’t the easiest guys to get past. I was obviously incredibly fortunate to play in this time and I think all tennis fans have been incredibly lucky to witness what they’ve obviously gone on to achieve.”
A New Chapter
As Nadal prepares for his tribute at the French Open, it marks the beginning of a new chapter in his life and in the world of tennis. While his absence from the court will be felt, his legacy will continue to inspire generations of players and fans alike. The reunion of the Big Four serves as a reminder of the golden era of men’s tennis and the enduring bonds that were forged through competition and mutual respect.
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