‘We did great things for our sport!’ Rafael Nadal feels ‘lucky’ to be part of the BIG THREE era with Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer
Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer
Rafael Nadal took the advantage in the Big Three race, as he claimed his 21st major title on Sunday. The Spaniard came back from two sets down to defeat Daniil Medvedev in the finals of Australian Open 2022. Whilst doing that, he also became the only fourth player to complete his Double Career Grandslam.
Rafael Nadal was asked about his opinion on the Big Three race, and whether clinching the 21st title changes anything. Nadal, as humble as ever clearly stated that there is immense amount of respect between Federer, Djokovic and himself. Moreover, the rivalry has pushed each player to their limits in a positive manner.
Rafael Nadal received messages from Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic for his incredible triumph in Melbourne. He thanked every single person for their wishes, and asked for forgiveness if he has missed out on replying to anyone.
“We are always very respectful of each other. I think we treat this rivalry in a positive way throughout our careers. I received plenty of messages. I am sorry I have not been able yet to reply to every one, you can imagine. But I really feel very proud about the way that we managed our rivalry during all our careers,” said Nadal.
Rafael Nadal believes each of Big Three members have achieved their dreams
Rafael Nadal stated that at the end of the day, tennis is just a game, and the magnitude of success Federer, Djokovic and Nadal himself have achieved is quite commendable. Hence, the Spaniard feels that the number of Grandslams won is not of much relevance. He believes it is not important if someone wins 21 majors, 23 majors etc.
“At the end of the day it’s just a game, and in some way we achieved more than what we ever dreamed when we were kids. So at the end, it’s not the fact that one has 21, and the others have 20. Or one has 23 and the others have 21,” said Nadal.
Rafael Nadal added that he feels that the Big Three players have done a great thing for the sport of tennis over the past several years. Moreover, he is extremely lucky and delighted to share the stage with two of the finest players in the history of the game, Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer.
“We did, I think, great things for our sport, and we achieved our dreams. And I feel lucky to be part of this era, that has been very special,” said Nadal.
Nirmit Mehta
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