British broadcaster Andrew Castle believes Federer, Nadal and Djokovic still have something to offer

Although the "Big Three" of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic may be approaching the tail end of their careers, former British No.1 and broadcaster Andrew Castle believes they still have something to offer the sport.

Rafael Nadal recently won a record 21st Grand Slam singles title and is on a 15-0 unbeaten streak to start the 2022 season. Meanwhile, 20-time Slam champions Djokovic and Federer may both face a struggle compete at and subsequently win further Slams.

Federer has only just stepped up his rehabilitation from a third knee surgery that has ruled him out since July of last year, whilst Djokovic could face a struggle to compete at a large number of ATP Tour level events as he intends to remain unvaccinated against Covid-19.

Nonetheless, Castle has remained optimistic and believes all three can still reach the top of their games and compete at the latter stages of Grand Slams.

"All credit to Daniil Medvedev for becoming World No.1, but I believe these legends of our game still have something to offer," Castle said at a recent Game4Padel event. “Then Rafa turns up and reminds you what real glamour is with a five-hour final like that and a narrative you couldn’t have written. Who knows what Novak still has to say and if Roger can be a part of it.

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“We can see a future without those guys, but I’d rather not contemplate that at the moment. I can’t help but think that if Roger can tee it up at Wimbledon, he can still be a part of that tournament."

The retired British pro believes Djokovic's motivation will be key following the ongoing battle surrounding his vaccination status, as this may influence his performance on the court.

“With Novak, I’d imagine his motivation will be 1000 per-cent going forward," added Castle. "Whether he will be allowed to play in France we don’t know, but I think he’s going to be incredibly motivated.

“The only camera we were missing at the Australian Open was one on Novak’s face when Rafa made it to 21 Grand Slams. I’m sure he will want to come back and be part of that story again.”