The era of the Big Three is indeed over, as there will be no member of the legendry trios of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and
Novak Djokovic competing at the year-ending
ATP Finals for the first time in over two decades.
The Serbian superstar was in contention for qualification at the elite event, sitting at No.6 in the race. However, Djokovic announced he would be withdrawing from this year's edition, effectively putting an end to his 2024 season.
Lack of Big Three signals beginning of new era
Swiss Maestro Federer retired at the 2022 Laver Cup, and Spanish icon Nadal announced his retirement for the 2024 Davis Cup this month. With Nadal not anywhere near contention for a spot at the ATP Finals, it was up to Djokovic to fly the flag for the Big Three at the event. The 37-year old is the defending champion at the event, where he won his seventh title last year.
However, Djokovic announced earlier this season that he would be shifting his focus to winning Grand Slam titles. The 24-time Major titlist stated he would not be competing at other events, including the elite eight-man tournament at the end of the season. After skipping the Paris Masters, Djokovic confirmed he would be withdrawing from the Finals in Turin due to an ongoing injury.
With Djokovic not competing at the event, it will be the first time in 23 years that a member of the illustrious Big Three will not be participating at the event. It now lies on the likes of rising superstars Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz to usher in the new era.