World number one tennis player Novak Djokovic admitted that he does not get along with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal off the court, but always wants to be close to his two rivals.
Djokovic just attended a 60-minute interview with journalist Jon Wertheim of Sports Illustrated magazine. The Grand Slam record holder shared many issues in his career, but was asked the most about his relationship with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.
Djokovic and Nadal attend the Laver Cup to bid farewell to Federer in September 2022. Photo: ATP
“The respect for Federer and Nadal is always there, at least from my side,” Djokovic said. “I really want to become closer. It’s clear that we haven’t gotten along throughout our careers, such as off-field issues. We’re also not friends, it’s difficult to become close when we’re opponents. each other’s greatest”.
According to Djokovic, close rivalries are unlikely in top sports, because details of their personal lives can be exploited when they compete on the court. Djokovic won 30 out of 59 matches against Nadal, and won 27 out of 50 matches against Federer. The Swiss legend retired in 2022, and Nadal is expected to return to competition next year after a season off due to injury.
Djokovic holds the record of 24 Grand Slams, Nadal has 22 trophies, and Federer has won 20 titles. No other male tennis player in history has reached 15 Grand Slams.
Djokovic expressed his hope that when his career ends, the “Big 3” will sit down and look back at the great battles between them over the past two decades. “We’ve been on the same stage for many years,” the 37-year-old tennis player said. “It would be great if we put everything down and sit and reflect.”
Regarding not getting vaccinated against Covid-19, Djokovic said he acted based on his own views on health. “I am not against vaccines, nor do I support vaccines. I was vaccinated with many types of vaccines when I was a child. With the Covid-19 vaccine, I support each person’s right to freedom of choice,” the Serbian tennis player said.
Djokovic is expected to return to competition on December 29, when the Serbian team attends the United Cup in Australia. He will play a few singles matches against opponents China and the Czech Republic to warm up for the Grand Slam at the beginning of the year.
