Novak Djokovic reveals preference for Nadal in Big Three rivalry; Serb praises mutual respect with Federer

Novak Djokovic, the only active member of the iconic Big Three, shared insights into his relationship with Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. In an interview with the German outlet “20 Minuten” in early June 2025 in Rio de Janeiro, the Serb, currently ranked No. 5 in the ATP, reflected on the historic rivalry among the three tennis giants. He emphasized the cordiality that always defined their interactions, even during fierce on-court battles. The statement, made after a challenging 2025 season, sheds light on the dynamics among the greatest players of the modern era. Djokovic also addressed the public’s perception, noting he was never as favored as Nadal or Federer. The interview revisited epic clashes, like the 2012 Australian Open final, and underscored the mutual respect that shapes the Big Three’s legacy.

The 38-year-old Serb continues to compete at an elite level, even after Federer’s retirement in 2022 and Nadal’s gradual withdrawal from the courts in 2024. His career, marked by 24 Grand Slam titles, keeps fueling debates about who was the greatest among the trio. The interview, conducted during a moment of introspection, offers a unique glimpse into how Djokovic views his place in the sport.

• Key points from Djokovic’s interview:
• Respectful relationship with Nadal and Federer.
• Perception of less public support.
• Personal preference for Nadal in terms of rapport.

Big Three dynamics through Djokovic’s lens

The rivalry among Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer is regarded as one of the most remarkable in sports history. For nearly two decades, the trio dominated professional tennis, collectively winning 66 Grand Slam titles by 2025. Djokovic, who broke into the elite scene later in the mid-2000s, faced the challenge of competing against two established stars. He recalled that his arrival as a bold young player, openly aiming to be No. 1, may have sparked resistance among fans.

The Serb stressed that, despite intense competition, personal animosity never existed. He recalled moments of on-court tension but emphasized that the rivalry remained professional. “Respect is the foundation,” he stated, noting the trio’s consistent sportsmanship. This perspective reinforces the Big Three’s image as a group that, beyond talent, cultivated mutual admiration.

Preference for Nadal

Djokovic surprised some by revealing that, between Federer and Nadal, he bonded more closely with the Spaniard. He attributed this to Nadal’s warm and approachable off-court demeanor. The two delivered some of tennis’s most unforgettable matches, like the nearly six-hour 2012 Australian Open final, the longest in Grand Slam history.

• Key facts about the Djokovic-Nadal rivalry:
• 56 head-to-head matches, with Djokovic leading 30-26.
• Iconic finals at Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and the Australian Open.
• Last meeting in 2024 at the Paris Olympics.

While favoring Nadal, Djokovic was quick to praise Federer, highlighting the Swiss star’s elegance and impact on tennis. He noted that both rivals, despite differing personalities, helped shape his growth as an athlete.

¡EL BIG THREE! 🤩

🎾 Rafa Nadal tiene récord positivo ante Roger Federer (6-3) y Novak Djokovic (5-3) en finales de Grand Slam.

¿Es el GOAT del tenis? 🤔

🎙️ #Hilos con @JPVarsky pic.twitter.com/Pehj4rv0IN

— DSPORTS (@DSports) June 13, 2025

Public perception and challenges

One of the interview’s most compelling moments was Djokovic’s take on his popularity. He acknowledged that he was never the crowd’s favorite throughout his career. “Maybe because I was the outsider, challenging two idols,” he mused. Analysts agree that Federer and Nadal, with charismatic playing styles and engaging personalities, captured global hearts.

Djokovic, however, built a loyal fanbase despite facing criticism for his assertive style and confident remarks. He admitted that this dynamic fueled his drive for excellence, using public skepticism as motivation. In 2025, with less pressure to chase records, the Serb appears more at ease discussing these facets of his journey.

Moments that shaped the rivalry

The Big Three’s history is packed with matches etched in tennis lore. Beyond the 2012 Australian Open, other unforgettable clashes include the 2008 Wimbledon final between Nadal and Federer, often called the greatest match ever, and Djokovic’s 2019 Wimbledon victory over Federer, decided by a historic fifth-set tiebreak.

Djokovic noted that these matches tested his skills and deepened the trio’s respect for one another. He shared that, after grueling battles, they often exchanged supportive words in the locker room. This camaraderie, he said, is among the Big Three’s most enduring legacies.

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Djokovic’s 2025 journey

The 2025 season has been a distinct chapter for Djokovic. After a 2024 season hampered by injuries and subpar results, he climbed back to the ATP top 5. The Serb won a Masters 1000 title in Indian Wells and reached the Roland Garros semifinals, where he fell to young star Carlos Alcaraz. His consistency at 38 continues to impress experts.

He also discussed his preparation for Wimbledon 2025, aiming for an eighth title. Djokovic revealed he’s focusing on physical conditioning to handle five-set matches. “The body feels it, but the mind still wants to compete,” he said, hinting that retirement is not imminent.

Big Three’s lasting legacy

The Big Three era reshaped professional tennis, raising technical standards and drawing millions of new fans. Djokovic acknowledged that the trio inspired the next generation, including stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, who have already claimed Grand Slams. He praised the current circuit’s competitiveness but noted that the trio’s nearly 20-year dominance is tough to replicate.

• Big Three’s contributions to tennis:
• Global sport popularization.
• Record-breaking Grand Slam final viewership.
• Inspiration for young athletes.

Djokovic also highlighted the trio’s financial impact, which boosted tournament prize money and attracted sponsors. ATP data shows that Grand Slam revenues grew over 200% between 2005 and 2025.

Off-court relationships

Away from competition, Djokovic shared that he occasionally stays in touch with Nadal, particularly after the Spaniard’s partial retirement. He recalled exchanging messages before the 2024 Olympics, where Nadal won a doubles bronze medal. Contact with Federer is less frequent, but Djokovic cherishes their conversations at charity events.

This connection, though sporadic, underscores that the Big Three’s rivalry was fiercest on the court. Djokovic emphasized that, despite differences, the trio shares deep respect for each other’s achievements.

Djokovic’s future in tennis

With the 2025 season ongoing, Djokovic remains a central figure in tennis. He confirmed his participation in the US Open, where he’s a favorite, and plans to compete in the Laver Cup, a showcase of top global talent. The Serb also expressed interest in playing in 2026, provided his body holds up.

Experts believe Djokovic could still add to his Grand Slam tally, particularly at the Australian Open, where he’s won 10 times. His longevity and disciplined approach serve as a model for athletes across sports.

Memories of historic clashes

Tennis fans hold dear countless moments when the Big Three delivered epic showdowns. Djokovic cited the 2013 Roland Garros semifinal against Nadal as a personal favorite for its intensity and technical quality. He also recalled the 2019 Australian Open final, where he dominated Nadal in straight sets, as one of his finest performances.

These matches, he said, not only shaped his career but also defined modern tennis. Djokovic noted that competing against Nadal and Federer forced him to constantly evolve, adapting his game to various surfaces and styles.