WATCH: Rafael Nadal’s old comment on not liking Novak Djokovic’s challenge goes viral amid the Serb’s latest comment on their rivalries
Rafael Nadal's vintage comment on Novak Djokovic's challenge resurfaces
Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic (Credits: Twitter and Sports Illustrated)
An old video of Rafael Nadal has surfaced on the internet, which has caused quite a stir in the world of tennis. In the video, Nadal was asked about his feelings towards Novak Djokovic, and his response has left everyone in stitches.
The video dates back to an old press conference from several years ago, presumably from a time when Nadal was at the peak of his career. A reporter asks the Spanish about his fondness for challenges. He proceeded and continued his question by asking if Nadal was happy that Djokovic existed.
To this seemingly straightforward question, Nadal responded with a playful but candid “no,” which instantly sent the room into fits of laughter. He continued, “I like challenges, but I am not stupid.”
Notably, Nadal’s response showcases his self-awareness in his sport. While he does have a liking for challenges, he also acknowledged that the Serbian is not an easy opponent. The clip’s resurfacing couldn’t have come at a more intriguing time, as Djokovic himself recently commented on the historic rivalry between the ‘Big Three‘.
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Djokovic playfully teases about missing Nadal and Federer
Novak Djokovic, fresh off his unprecedented 24th Grand Slam title at the US Open, joked about the absence of his old rivals Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.
Djokovic arrived in Valencia to represent Serbia in the Davis Cup Finals. He was met with queries regarding Nadal’s noticeable absence since the Australian Open earlier this year. In answer, the Serbian grinned and joked, “I don’t miss them, but I’m sure tennis misses them.“
Nadal, a clay-court master with 22 Grand Slam wins, has long been a fan favorite for his never-say-die attitude. Roger Federer has enthralled spectators across the world with his exquisite style and Grand Slam triumphs, becoming a tennis legend in his own right.
The ‘Big Three,’ Djokovic, Nadal, and Federer, have reinvented tennis, setting unparalleled standards of excellence and sportsmanship. Their ferocious yet courteous rivalries have become legends, enthralling spectators and raising the sport’s global profile.
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Navya Mishra
(407 Articles Published)