Novak Djokovic has proved his worth in the tennis realm by adding yet another major title to his profile. Despite the 20-year-old Carlos Alcaraz posing a threat, Djokovic persevered and eventually won three out of the four major titles this year. However, in the dominant era of Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, no one except Nadal’s uncle, Toni Nadal was concerned about 18-year-old Djokovic becoming a threat to the two most sensational players of that time.

Toni Nadal’s prophecy came true and now Djokovic holds the most Grand Slam titles in the men’s circuit. But the sheer coincidence of coming across Djokovic 18 years ago, and Toni Nadal’s worry about him, is worth marveling at.

How did Rafael Nadal get to know about Novak Djokovic for the first time? 

The Spanish tennis star was fresh off his Roland Garros victory and was at Wimbledon, looking to add one more title to his name in 2005. At that point, the only major threat he had on court was Roger Federer.

However, it was Toni Nadal, his uncle and coach, who saw a third imposing talent brewing up. Nadal’s coach decided to take a glimpse of the first-round matches that were taking place in Court 18 at Wimbledon. Juan Monaco was playing his match. He was Rafa’s common hitting partner. However, it was not Monaco that caught his attention.

It was his opponent – who was none other than Novak Djokovic. The Serbian player had just made his Wimbledon debut and was ranked 128 at that time. However, he was outplaying Monaco with his rigorous gameplay. Inquisitive about the kid, he asked a spectator, “Who’s that kid? What’s his name?”

After getting his name, he rushed to the locker room and made the prophecy that eventually came true. He stated, “Rafael, we have a problem. I’ve just seen a really good kid. His name is Novak Djokovic.” 

That was the first time Nadal got to know about Djokovic. After that, the two players went on to play against each other a whopping 59 times, with Djokovic leading their head-to-head at 30-29.

READ MORE: ‘No Room for Three’- Novak Djokovic Recalls His Epic Struggle to Topple Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal’s Dominance in a Candid Confession to John McEnroe

Now, Uncle Toni has his eyes set on someone else. A certain compatriot – the new Spanish bull, Carlos Alcaraz – was the subject of his apprehension this time. Whether it will come true, only the 2024 season will tell.

Toni Nadal gets raw about the threat of Carlos Alcaraz 

Rafael Nadal is planning to make a comeback next year. Hoping to have his Roland Garros victory one more time in Paris next year, Nadal has wished to get back in good form.

Updating about the same in an interview with Marca, his uncle has stated Rafa is recovering well. Nadal wishes to be back in 2024. However, the coach has some worries about Alcaraz. Toni Nadal stated, “Let’s hope that Alcaraz will let us win something then.”

Alcaraz becomes a worrying player because he has posed a challenge to the likes of Djokovic. Djokovic himself is a prime rival of Nadal. Hence, Alcaraz’s recent performance speaks volumes about what danger he can pose for Rafa.

Do you think Rafa can win the Roland Garros once again? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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