‘He Has Pushed Me to Do So’ – Novak Djokovic Credits Rafael Nadal and Sidelines Roger Federer for Helping Him Grow as a Champion

With all the stats and records in place, Novak Djokovic is one of the greatest players of all time. Over the years, the Serbian has outplayed a number of opponents. To put it in simpler words, it will be a long list that’s difficult to count. However, amongst the long list of opponents, one opponent that has pushed Djokovic to his ultimate limits is none other than the legendary Spaniard, Rafael Nadal.

Recently, Djokovic won the Rome Masters, a  title that Nadal has won 10 times. Going ahead, the World No. 1 will now try his luck at Roland Garros.

During the post-match press conference after the finals in Rome, Djokovic sidelined Federer and called Nadal his greatest opponent.

Novak Djokovic calls Rafael Nadal his greatest opponent

The rivalry between Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic dates back to 2006 when the two first met in the quarterfinals of Roland Garros. Building on the legacy, the two today played 58 matches against each other. Looking at the head-to-head, Djokovic leads the race with a slight margin, 30-28.

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Looking at their matches, the two have given the tennis world some of the most memorable matches to cherish. The majority of the matches between the two players have gone the distance. Being two of the greatest players of all time, they have pushed each other to a level that have forced them to cross their limits.

Opening up on his rivalry with Nadal, Djokovic said, “We are always competing. Federer and Nadal have always been there, but for me Nadal is the greatest opponent of my career. I have grown as a player because he has pushed me to do so.”  

Is Djokovic thinking of retirement considering his age?

In his two-decade long career, Djokovic has achieved impossible feats and achievements that remain a dream for a majority of players in the sport.

However, one must also not forget that despite a player’s skill, another major factor that directly influences one’s game is age. Being a physically demanding sport, tennis usually sees retirement by players in their mid to late 30’s.

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But, that doesn’t seem to be the case with Djokovic. Even at 34 years of age, the Serbian feels that he has much left within himself. In addition to calling Nadal his greatest opponent, Djokovic also spoke about his retirement during the post-match press conference after his title win in Rome.

He confessed, “I do not feel near the end of my career, age is just a number.”

Djokovic is in his mid 30’s. Even after being at a reasonable age, he has time and again proved why he doesn’t need to think about retirement anytime soon with his performance at Rome Masters being the latest example.

On the way to achieve good momentum, the title at Rome will surely act as a confidence booster for the World No. 1 for the upcoming Roland Garros. Starting from 22nd May, Djokovic will fight for his third Roland Garros title and one can expect the Serbian to go all the way.