"When we hang up our racquets, we'll look at it in a more relaxed way": Novak Djokovic believes Federer and Nadal could go from rivals to friends in retirement

Novak Djokovic commented that he could be friends with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal after their retirements.

The current world No. 1 is the only active player from the Big-3, which included Federer and Nadal, dominating the ATP Tour for over 15 years. Following Federer's retirement in 2022 and Nadal's injury at the beginning of 2023, which kept him out for the rest of the season, Djokovic was not hindered by his iconic rivals. Nevertheless, Nadal's imminent return in 2024 is expected, marking what will likely be his last season as a professional, as he himself has indicated.

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The trio collectively accumulated 66 Grand Slam titles, and Djokovic remains the favorite in each tournament, seeking to further extend his advantage over his rivals. In a recent interview with Marca, 'Nole' addressed his relationship with Federer and Nadal, admitting that the intense rivalry they share doesn't allow them to be friends.

However, Djokovic expressed his belief that after retirement, this rivalry could transform into friendship, considering that over the last 15 years, they have shared their journey on the ATP Tour:

"It's true that we can't be friends because with friends you talk about everything, the good, the bad, your secrets. With your rivals I don't think you feel very comfortable revealing all that. In the last 15 years I have seen more of Nadal and Federer than my parents," the 24-times Grand Slam champion said.

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"That means they have been a very important part of my life and my career. I have incredible respect for them and for the rivalry we've had for so long. It's been a long journey together and when we hang up our racquets we'll look at it in a more relaxed way," Djokovic added.

‘Nole’ ended the 2023 season with 7 titles, three of them Grand Slam victories (only losing in the Wimbledon final against Carlos Alcaraz). Additionally, he had a record of 55-6, claiming two Masters 1000 titles in Cincinnati Open and Paris-Bercy, along with the ATP 250 Adelaide Open and the ATP Finals.

Cedric

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