‘There Were Never Friends’ Novak Djokovic doubles down and insists Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal…

Novak Djokovic Reaffirms Stance: Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal ‘Weren’t Friends’

Tennis great Novak Djokovic has once again emphasized that despite sharing one of the most storied rivalries in sports history with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, the trio were never personal friends. While their on-court battles were legendary and captivated fans worldwide, Djokovic has made it clear that any relationship he had with his peers was strictly professional.

Djokovic, Federer, and Nadal have dominated tennis for the better part of two decades, claiming the majority of Grand Slam titles between them and pushing one another to new heights. Although their camaraderie was often praised, the Serbian star has now reiterated that the bond between them was more about competition than friendship.

Speaking to the Argentinian newspaper *La Nacion*, Djokovic reflected on his rivalry with Federer and Nadal. He shared his pride in being part of the famous trio but clarified that there was never a close personal connection. “For many years, I saw them more often than my mother,” Djokovic said. “We weren’t close friends, but I can say that we got to know each other well.”

Djokovic acknowledged the importance of their rivalries in promoting tennis globally, with their matchups drawing millions of fans to the sport. He remarked on the significance of their battles: “These rivalries bring millions of people to the sport and connect people in a way that is eternal. Because even those who are not tennis fans might be fans of one of us. I think everyone is a fan of our matches.”

The 37-year-old Djokovic also reflected on the early stages of his career, during which Federer and Nadal often blocked his path to major titles. Between his first Grand Slam win in 2008 and his next in 2011, Djokovic said that period was “fundamental” to his development. It was during these years that he solidified his mental and physical strength, eventually rising to surpass both Federer and Nadal in the Grand Slam race.

While Federer has retired and Nadal has announced that he will retire after the upcoming Davis Cup Finals, Djokovic stands as the last of the trio still competing at the highest level. With 24 Grand Slam titles to his name, he has cemented his place in tennis history and, for many, has claimed the title of the greatest of all time.

Despite his rivalry with Federer and Nadal, Djokovic remains respectful of their contributions to the sport, noting that their impact will resonate for generations to come. However, his latest comments reaffirm that their relationship remained largely on the court, with no close friendship off it.