As Men?s Tennis? Young Guns Fail to Displace Novak Djokovic, the Serbian Reminisces ?Strong and Solid? Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal Rivalries

The Novak Djokovic juggernaut marches on in style! The Serbian legend defeated Russia’s Daniil Medvedev 6-3, 7-6(5), 6-3 in the US Open finals on Sunday to win a record-breaking 24th grand slam title. With this victory, he surpasses Serena Williams‘ tally of 23 grand slam titles to become the first person in the Open Era to win 24 majors. This further solidifies his claim in the G.O.A.T debate, something that for decades has revolved around the Big 3 in tennis – Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic.

Without a doubt, the epic rivalry of these 3 has redefined modern tennis and taken it to new heights. Now, with Roger Federer retired and Rafael Nadal out of action due to injury, is Novak Djokovic missing the intense competition from his great rivals? His post-match interview after the US Open finals certainly hinted at the same.

Novak Djokovic recalls iconic rivalries with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal post US Open glory

With a whopping 69 grand slam titles amongst them, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray dominated the sport for the last 20 years and pushed each other to greatness. As Djokovic still remains at the top of his game, it is evident that the younger generation is failing to consistently match up to the greatness of the Serb.

After his US Open triumph, Djokovic was asked about the difference between his opponents of today and those of the yesteryears. “Four times different opponent. Yeah, right. It’s different, because the rivalries I had with these guys were so strong and solid that it was very high probability that I’ll face either Roger or Rafa or Andy in the finals of a slam for most of those years when we were facing each other at the highest of the levels. Nowadays, that’s different. I don’t mind playing different players in the slams as long as I win”, he quipped.

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Djokovic also acknowledged the rise of a certain Carlos Alcaraz, against whom he played 3 epic matches this year. However, no one is being able to consistently rise to the occasion as the Serb will yet again end the year with 3 grand slam titles in his kitty.

Another incredible year on the tennis court for Djokovic

At the ripe age of 36, Novak Djokovic is showing no signs of slowing down. He reached the finals of all 4 grand slams this year, facing 4 different opponents in each event. The Serb clinched 3 majors this year, with his only loss coming against Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz in an epic 5-setter at the Wimbledon finals. By winning his 4th US Open title, Djokovic increased his grand slam count to 24, equaling Margaret Court’s record of winning the most singles grand slam titles in the history of the sport. Not only this – Djokovic became the first player ever to bag $175 million as prize money on the tennis court which puts him way ahead of other greats of the game in this department.

All in all, it has been yet another super-successful year on the court for Djokovic. While the absence of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal is certainly felt on the tour, Novak Djokovic isn’t ready to pass on the baton to the new generation as of yet!

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