Novak Djokovic comically expressed his feelings of Relief when Rafael Nadal reluctantly withdrew from the French Open due to… injury; Yet, with a lightness of spirit, the Serbian hero holds immense reverence for Constant rival, acknowledging that deep void Will be left Inside should The Spaniard decided to retire in 2024.
Nadal failed to restore full fitness from the hip injury He struggled at the Australian Open in January and 14-times Roland Garros winner He said 2024 could be last year of his career.
both of them players tied up on a record 22 Grand Slam titles but Djokovic can advance at Roland Garros where he only managed to beat Nadal twice in 10 meetings.
Honestly, I don’t miss him in The drawing. Me, no like see it in The drawing of Djokovic told reporters. with laugh.
“I didn’t have much success against for him in our head-to-head record in Roland Garros. I managed to beat him twiceBut I had to give up my heart and my guts out on court to do so.
“a lot of people his retirement already 10 years ago but he has continued, which is something I respect and appreciate. I know how hard It is to maintain this level and continue even after a difficult confrontation injury. “
said Djokovic Nadal announcement came as a shock and 36-year- Old praised his rival for had brought out the best in for him over The years they dominated the sport.
“I have to say he’s my biggest competitor. When he does that announced he will get last season of (His profession), I felt a part of I am leaving with he is too ” added.
“I feel like it was one of The most influential people which I already had in my career growth of My career and me player.
“Sure a great motivational factor for me to keep it playing And they kept competing and kept pushing each other – who’s going to do more and who’s going to do better.”
If Nadal did call Quit, Djokovic will be last of The remaining “Big Three”. on Tour after Roger Federer’s retirement last year But the Serb does not have it plans on suspended up bat after.
“He. She made I wonder, that made I think about my career and how I’m going to play for a long time,” said Djokovic.
“So far I won’t do anything announcement Today, however just reflects on it’s me also I felt a little emotional about what he was saying.
