The greatest era in men’s tennis history is nearing its end. It is still surreal for tennis fans to wrap their heads around the incredible rivalries this era has witnessed. Mostly dominated by Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic, the last 2 decades have gifted us some of the most memorable tennis matches of all time. But the era of the Big 3 was left with a huge void when Roger Federer retired from the sport at last year’s Laver Cup. And now, with Rafael Nadal pulling out from the remainder of the season and hinting at a possible farewell run next year, discussions about the end of the ‘golden period’ are rife.

As Novak Djokovic moves ahead without his biggest rivals on the tour, what does the Serb really feel about his own future?

Farewell of Roger Federer, and now the absence of Rafael Nadal leaves Djokovic thoughtful

During an interview with Eurosport ahead of his French Open journey, Djokovic spoke about Nadal’s absence from the event for the first time since 2004. He said, “..it made me wonder and, and question myself and, and where, where the end of my career is going to be and how, so because, you know, we all knew that that might be coming around the corner because of his injuries and everything and, and of course, the age and the amount of years he has played on the tour.” The King of Clay’s absence will be felt even by his arch-nemesis, as is clear from his words.

All You Need to Know About the Epic Rivalry Between Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic at the French Open

Djokovic was also seen getting emotional after Roger Federer’s grand farewell from tennis at Laver Cup 2022.

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He expressed his desire of being able to bid goodbye to the sport in a similar fashion to that of the Swiss maestro, in the presence of his greatest rivals, when he finally decides to end his career.

Will a Rafa-less French Open open the doors for Djokovic’s 23rd grand slam?

Novak Djokovic has had a rough run of results leading to Roland Garros. Although he bagged the Australian Open title for the 10th time this year, his clay court season didn’t turn out as expected. An elbow injury forced him to withdraw from the Madrid Open while he lost to Dane Holger Rune in the QFs of the Italian Open. However, Novak Djokovic can never be counted out from grand slams. After all, he is the only person to beat Rafael Nadal twice at Roland Garros and went on to win the event on both occasions.

With both Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic’s days as competitive tennis players numbered, it will indeed be a hard sight for everyone watching the grand slams without two of the famed triumvirate.

WATCH THIS STORY: ‘He’s A Perfectionist’ – Days After Novak Djokovic’s Friendship Bomb On Roger Federer, Ex-Coach’s Blunt Revelation Shows Mysterious Similarities Between The Two Tennis Legends