Rafael Nadal along with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic has been the sheer epitome of dominance on the court for over a decade. Together, they have formed the formidable ‘Big Three’ in tennis. They have won a total of 293 career titles throughout their reign, including a staggering 66 major singles triumphs. The ‘Big Three’ held the top spot in men’s singles ranking for almost 17 and a half years. But despite ruling the tennis world together for such a long span, they have locked horns several times to outclass each other.
One has created a record waiting for the other to break it a few months later. This has been the story for quite a while. But there remains a historic feat which Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer have achieved thrice each. But Rafael Nadal has failed to achieve it. What is it?
The record which only Rafael Nadal has failed to achieve among the ‘Big Three’
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The 37-year-old Spanish icon has achieved several milestones in his illustrious career so far. Still more to come? Well, only Rafael Nadal can give this answer. He has 92 singles titles in his career, including 22 Grand Slam triumphs, among which 14 are in the French Open itself. This is the reason why he’s called the ‘King of Clay.’ Nadal has a record of being the world no.1 for 209 weeks. However, there is an area where he is left far behind by Federer and Djokovic.
Only Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic have made all four Grand Slam finals in a single season since the former no.1, Rod Laver won the calendar year Grand Slam in 1969! Both Federer (2006,2007,2009) and Djokovic (2015,2021,2023) managed to put their name for this historic feat thrice in their career.
Now, with Federer being already retired, it’ll be interesting to see if Novak Djokovic can extend it further in his career. Or will the Spaniard come up with a surprise in 2024?
READ MORE: Rafael Nadal ‘No Longer in Pain’, Says French Veteran After Hitting with the King of Clay
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Nadal is leaving no stone unturned
After missing out almost a year due to a hip injury, Rafael Nadal is set to make a comeback in 2024. The 2024 season could probably be the last time his fans will be witnessing the legend on the Tour. He has played only 4 matches in 2023 and won only 1 among them. Surely, he would love to recover all his lost ground and make a statement before putting an end to his illustrious career. Can he win his 23rd Grand Slam next season?
Well, let’s not build up any expectations and enjoy the show for one last time. When the new season arrives, it is more important for Rafa to put in all his efforts and make 2024 the most memorable season. He was recently seen practicing with Arthur Fils in Kuwait to get adjusted to the climate similar to Australian Summer.
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Now he’s back in his hometown practicing with some of the top players in the circuit. Everyone now wishes him to return to his winning path as soon as possible and end the journey on his terms.
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