Rafael Nadal picked his “greatest rival” and put an end to the tennis GOAT controversy with a decisive Novak Djokovic-Roger Federer decision.
Novak Djokovic defeated Rafael Nadal 6-2 7-6(5) in the third-place match at the Six Kings Slam exhibition event in Saudi Arabia. Nadal will retire following the Davis Cup finals next month. Their illustrious rivalry came to an end as Nadal met the Serbian ace for the final time.
The Spaniard made the decision to conclude the Big Three’s GOAT argument—which includes Roger Federer, Djokovic, and himself—in an interview with AS.
“Djokovic’s level has been the highest since the statistics indicate that he is the greatest of all time. Additionally, he is the one who has avoided injuries the longest. It isn’t an excuse; he is the greatest and deserving of this distinction because of it. Even though Novak is in great shape, I believe it is human for him to have a minor breakdown and decide to leave after Federer has retired and I am ready to do the same. Everyone experiences it. He can still compete at the greatest levels and try to win the biggest tournaments if he is healthy,” he stated.
“I believe he will decide to resign if all of the sacrifices he makes are not reimbursed at some time. Federer was my fiercest opponent, but Djokovic is the player I have faced the most during my career. When I initially started on the ATP Tour, Roger was the first person I had to defeat. Roger has always been there, and they have specifically marked you for years. I don’t know why, but my rivalry with both of them was more fierce than theirs,” he continued.
Prior to the exhibition event, Nadal and Djokovic faced off in Paris 2024, where the Serbian won and went on to win gold. “It was a battle, obviously very different from the ones we had on tour,” Nadal remarked in response to his loss in Saudi Arabia. “It was fun, especially in the second set.” Since I haven’t played nearly anyone since the Olympics, I didn’t perform well enough in the opening set. Finding my rhythm took some time. Our history is so lengthy that it’s always interesting to play against Nole. I was extremely fortunate, and throughout every event I participated in during my career, I always felt like they adored me.”
“I can’t express how grateful I am to everyone for their support; it’s difficult to put into words the energy and personal fulfillment it brings. My life will change significantly as a result. Because I was a professional athlete as a child, I need time to consider what I want to do with my life. I’m now concentrating on enjoying these final months as a professional and getting ready for the Davis Cup. I just need some time to think; I don’t want to put any pressure on myself.”
More times than any other partnership in the Open Era, Djokovic and Nadal have faced each other. Nadal trails 29–31 overall, but leads 11–7 at Grand Slam competitions. They are tied 2-2 on grass, with Nadal leading 20-9 on clay and Djokovic leading 20-7 on hard courts.
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