Whilst Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer have become friends somewhat since the latter has concluded his career, Novak Djokovic will find it a bit more difficult.
Djokovic opened up on his lack of friendship with his great rival. But it isn't for any dislike or any other reason that they have been rivals for so long. The Serbian took checkmate on their 60th and potentially final clash at the Olympic Games.
While Nadal reacted defensively when asked if it would be their final tie, Djokovic believes it depends on a myriad of factors but admitted it is likely. But what about their relationship off court when it is all said and done? There is an appreciation there but no sense of friendship between the pair while they are still ingrained in the sport.
"I think there is no brotherhood really. It’s more rivalry, colleagues, respecting each other, appreciating each other’s careers and what we have achieved and brought to the sport," Djokovic said after beating Nadal.
"It’s tough to be close, honestly. [We’re] greatest rivals and you don’t want to maybe give insights into your life or the way you feel and stuff because that can maybe expose you and stuff.
"I guess that’s one of the reasons why we didn’t connect so close and I don’t think at that level you can really connect so close to anybody really."
"But who knows? When the career ends for both of us, it’s a long life hopefully for both of us, we’re both family people and hopefully we can address the different side of the relationship and reflect on things that we went through together, that we lived together, the special moments, in a different way."
As alluded to he doesn't rule out it being their last tie together either. "It really depends on many different factors, it depends on whether both of us will keep going and whether we’re going to participate in the same tournaments or not. I think we both want to play in the Grand Slams and the biggest tournaments.
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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