Novak Djokovic has opened up on his relationship with Rafael Nadal, admitting he was never able to form a friendship with his long-time rival despite years of shared respect and unforgettable battles on the court.
The Serbian legend, 38, remains one of tennis’s greatest ever players with a record 24 Grand Slam titles to his name.
Over the past two decades, his fierce rivalries with Nadal and Roger Federer have defined the sport, producing some of the most iconic matches in tennis history.
Now ranked world No5, Djokovic continues to compete against a new generation of stars such as Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have 66 Grand Slam titles between them | GETTYBut even after Nadal’s retirement, he admits their competitive edge made a personal bond impossible.
He said: “Nadal is only a year older than me, we are both Geminis, and at first we even went to dinner together, twice, but even with him, friendship is impossible.
“I have always respected and greatly admired him. Thanks to him and Federer, I grew up and became who I am. This will unite us forever; therefore I feel gratitude towards them.
"Nadal is a part of my life — in the last 15 years I’ve seen more of him than my mum! We have never been friends. Between rivals, it is not possible, but we have never been enemies."
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Djokovic also spoke about his professional distance from Federer, saying: “I’ve always had respect for Federer, he was one of the greatest of all time. He had an extraordinary impact, but I’ve never been close to him.”
He explained that while Federer’s elegance and composure on and off the court inspired him, their contrasting personalities meant a true friendship never developed.
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Novak Djokovic says he will miss Rafael Nadal after the Spanish tennis star announced his retirement | PAThe Serb’s comments came after a frustrating exit from the Shanghai Masters at the weekend.
Djokovic was visibly in discomfort during his semi-final defeat to France’s Valentin Vacherot, appearing to struggle with a back issue throughout the match.
In clear pain during the opening set, Djokovic vented his frustration by striking a ball away in anger.
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Although treated by the physio, he went on to lose the first set 6-3 before falling 6-4 in the second, crashing out in straight sets.
Vacherot, who kept his celebrations subdued in recognition of Djokovic’s condition, was left stunned by the victory, “I can’t put any words to it,” he told Sky Sports.
Novak Djokovic suffered a surprise straight-sets defeat to qualifier Valentin Vacherot at the Shanghai Masters
| GETTYHe added: “This is crazy — just to be on the other side of the net was an unbelievable experience. I have learnt so much from this match. He is really appreciated here and almost got lost in all the titles they were announcing.”
Djokovic's future remains uncertain as he struggles with his health, but the Serbian legend has left a legacy on court that will remain for decades to come.