Djokovic believes that the fierce rivalry at the top level is the barrier that prevents him and Nadal from being friends - Photo: REUTERS
Legendary Novak Djokovic has just shared candidly about his relationship with arch-rival Rafael Nadal. Despite being only one year older, Djokovic affirmed: "At first we even went to dinner together, twice. But both he and I knew that being friends was impossible."
According to Djokovic, the fierce rivalry at the top level is the barrier that separates the two players, even when Nadal has retired.
Djokovic defined this relationship clearly in Corriere Della Sera : "We have never been friends. With great rivals, that doesn't happen, but we have never been enemies either."
Statistically, Djokovic currently leads Nadal 31-29 in 60 head-to-head matches. However, Nadal dominates Grand Slams (11-7) and clay courts (20-9), while Djokovic dominates hard courts (20-7). On grass, they are tied after four meetings.
Despite the friendship barrier, Djokovic has absolute respect for his Spanish rival. "I have always respected and admired Nadal a lot. Thanks to him and Federer, I grew up and became the player I am today.
That will bond us forever, so I thank them. Nadal is part of my life. In the past 15 years, I have seen him more than my mother," the Serbian tennis player expressed.
Djokovic has always had absolute respect for Nadal - Photo: REUTERS
The Serbian insists this line is not just for Nadal. He believes that at the most intense level of competition, brotherhood is impossible for anyone.
"I always respected Federer, he is one of the greatest of all time. He had a huge influence, but I was never close to him," Djokovic continued.
However, many readers on tennis forums have refuted Djokovic's views, citing the close friendship between Nadal and Roger Federer. Or Djokovic's own previous open relationship with Andy Murray.
Source: https://tuoitre.vn/djokovic-toi-ton-trong-nhung-khong-the-lam-ban-voi-nadal-20251015092208703.htm
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