Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer have combined for a whopping total of 64 grand slam victories – but they’ve never truly been friends. That’s according to Djokovic, who says the now decades long rivalry between the trio made it impossible to become close over the years.
Men’s tennis may never again see a three-way rivalry involving three players at their level, and while Djokovic insists the trio have always held each other in the highest regard, their fierce rivalry always stopped them from growing closer. Djokovic made the surprising admission in an interview with Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera.
Explaining that it was simply ‘not possible’ for them to strike up a friendship, Djokovic said the fact they weren’t necessarily friendly with one another allowed their tennis rivalry to reach greater and greater heights – inspiring each to their record-breaking grand slam success. The Serbian superstar added that they had become somewhat closer in recent years as Federer retired and Nadal’s career enters its twilight.
“I’ve never been friends with Federer and Nadal, between rivals it’s not possible,” Djokovic explained. “I’ve always had respect for Federer, he’s one of the greatest of all time.
“He’s had an extraordinary impact, but I’ve never been close to him. Same with Nadal. We went to dinner together twice, but even with him friendship is impossible.”
“I have always admired and respected him. Thanks to them I have become who I am.
“This will unite us forever. Nadal is a part of my life: in the last 15 years I’ve seen him more than my mother.”
