While Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, and Novak Djokovic took the responsibility of bringing the ATP to its peak. Serena Williams, the 23-time Grand Slam champion, arguably single-handedly raised the bar in the WTA. These players became so successful that they brought crowds of fans to the sport.

Now as the former world number one, Williams has taken a decision to hang her racket. The circle of legends who carried the sport for decades will be broken. Therefore, along with fans and fellow professionals, one of the ‘Big Three’ players, Nadal also took a trip down memory lane and spoke about the changes they have brought together.

Rafael Nadal weighs in

After making his way into the Round of 16 at the US Open, Nadal addressed the ‘Big Three’ and the leaving legend’s contribution. He said, “Well, yeah, have been a great story for our sport, having a lot of players that achieved a lot during the last 20 years, without a doubt.”?

Thereafter, the 22-time Grand Slam champion added, “I think in some way helped to make our sport better, more popular, and create more jobs in our tour. In general, I think there is more people in the world living from our sport. That says that our sport, it’s bigger than before.”?

“I feel proud and happy to have a small contribution to the world of tennis. I think in a personal way have been amazing to share all these years with such great champions. Be part of this era is an absolutely honor.”

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The ‘Big Three’ comprise the biggest champions of tennis. Though when kept side by side, they form arguably the biggest rivalry of all time. They exceeded the prowess that the Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, and John McEnroe eras carried. Thus bringing new thrill to the sport.

Current stats of the ‘Big Three’

Speaking of their current standing in the game. While Novak Djokovic is still struggling to get past vaccination rules and Federer is recovering from his knee surgery, Rafael Nadal fighting all the in-match odds is furthering his record. He broke the tie of Grand Slam victories by claiming the Australian Open and took the lead of two Grand Slams in France.

Though the Serb has narrowed the drift by winning his fourth consecutive title in the grass courts of London. However, as he is barred from participating in the ongoing US Open, the 36-year-old Spaniard has a chance to reclaim the lead.

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But with the gruesome abdominal injury from Wimbledon weighing him down, the chances of him clinching the title have gone down considerably. Nadal will soon clash with Citi Open quarter-finalist Frances Tiafoe for a position in the last eight of the tournament.

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