“Between rivals, it’s not possible,” Novak Djokovic SHOCKINGLY reveals he has ‘never’ been friends with Roger Federer

In what may come as a shocking statement for fans of both Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer, Djokovic has revealed that he has never been close to the 20-time Grand Slam champion Federer. The 35-year-old Serb, who himself is a 22-time Majors winner, the most in the history of men’s singles tennis, has, however, given a sigh of relief by saying that he has never been enemies with the Swiss Maestro.

Djokovic and Federer have played a lot of matches against each other and have always shown great respect for each other. There have been instances when their opinions have differed, but they don’t have animosity or don’t hold a grudge against each other. Both have immense respect for the contributions they have made to the sport.

This was evidenced during a recent interview with Corriere Della Sera, where Djokovic said, “We have never been friends, between rivals it’s not possible; but we’ve never been enemies. I’ve always had respect for Roger, he was 1 of the greatest of all time. He had extraordinary impact, but I’ve never been close to him”

The recent statement from Djokovic has drawn mixed responses from the fans of the two as well as the neutral audiences. While some have termed it ‘obvious’, others have criticized him for making such a statement as Federer and Rafael Nadal are good friends off the court, despite being fierce rivals on it.

Keep exploring: Daniil Medvedev raises an eyebrow on his ‘spicy’ rivalry brewing up with Alexander Zverev

Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer have a storied rivalry

The tennis rivalry between Djokovic and Federer is arguably one of the greatest tennis has ever seen, if not the greatest. Both have faced each other 50 times in all, with the Serb leading the head-to-head record 27-23, including 13-6 in finals.

Djokovic and Federer played each other 17 times at Grand Slams, five of which were championship matches and a record 11 in the semis. Djokovic is the only player to defeat the Swiss Maestro at least once in each of the four Majors. Likewise, Federer is the only man to beat his Serbian opponent at each Major.

While Federer hung up his boots last year bringing an end to his glittering career. Djokovic, at 35, on the other hand, is still going strong and at 22 Grand Slams, is tied with Nadal for the most in the history of the men’s singles category.

In case you missed it:

• Novak Djokovic HUMBLY believes his rivalries against Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, and Andy Murray made him ‘stronger’
• Who is Fábián Marozsán’s idol- Rafael Nadal or Novak Djokovic?

Stay Updated!

Join our newsletter to receive exclusive updates and curated insights directly to your inbox.

Subscribe NOW