Putting the rivalries aside! In July 2024, Novak Djokovic acknowledged that he would like to improve his personal relationship with Rafael Nadal once they retire from tennis. “No there is no brotherhood. We are rivals and colleagues,” said the Serb at that time. Now, three months later, Novak Djokovic penned down a heartfelt note for his long-time rival, pleading, “Don’t leave tennis, man, stay a little bit more. Stay with us.” What a moment it was at the Six Kings Slam to witness these two greats take on each other for probably one last time in the tennis world! Djokovic’s emotional message after the match drew in reactions from several bigwigs of the tennis world.

Novak Djokovic defeated Rafael Nadal by 6-2,7-6(5) in that match. This result doesn’t get counted on the H2H record between the two. However, if we still take a look at the stats, Djokovic currently has a fine edge over the Spaniard by 31-29. This shows us how close this rivalry was between the two. Reflecting on his thoughts on Rafael Nadal’s incredible career, Djokovic said, “Who would know that we are standing here almost 20 years later with 60 times that we faced each other on the biggest stages of the sport? I have the utmost respect for you. You are an incredible athlete and an incredible person. The rivalry has been incredible, it has been very intense, so I hope we will have a chance to sit on the beach somewhere and have a drink reflecting on life and talking about something else.”

Djokovic even congratulated Rafa’s team and his family for aiding him in his remarkable journey. He added that it was an “honor” and “incredible pleasure” to share the court with Rafael Nadal.

Lastly, he asked Rafa, “Don’t leave tennis, man, stay a little bit more. Stay with us…You left an incredible legacy and we really appreciate it.” Jannik Sinner’s coach Darren Cahill later shared this beautiful message on his X account with the caption, “Well said.” Even Coco Gauff’s former coach Brad Gilbert was spotted sending in a few reactions under Cahill’s post. He commented, “💪👍🙏😎” on that post.

https://twitter.com/darren_cahill/status/1847712378676277645?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

Playing tennis for so many years, competing against each other in multiple do-or-die matches, and snatching the titles in front of each other’s eyes. This rivalry was very intense indeed! Who would have known that there would be a day when these two would recall their fond memories and wish to take forward this rivalry for a few more days? Nevertheless, what did Rafael Nadal say after this historic match in Saudi Arabia?

Rafael Nadal thanks Novak Djokovic for all the moments they shared on the court during their careers

Shortly after his defeat to the Serb, Rafael Nadal reflected on the “amazing rivalry” he had shared with Novak Djokovic over the years. “Thank you Novak for everything for all the moments we shared on court during our careers. It’s been an amazing rivalry. In a personal way, you helped me go over my limits during almost 15 years. Without that, I wouldn’t be the player I am today. Congratulations for all the titles and amazing career to you and your team. I wish you all the best of luck for the future.”

They even shared a warm embrace at the net after the match. Rafael Nadal will probably next be in action (for one last time) at the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga. It was a dream for the young boy from Mallorca to reach the biggest stage of the racket sport. He not only managed to reach the heights but also dominated the tennis world for almost 23 years. What a remarkable journey!

What will Rafael Nadal miss the most after his retirement? “What I will miss is almost everything,” said the 22-time Grand Slam champion. Share your thoughts on Rafa’s incredible career and let us know which is your favorite moment from his epic rivalry with Novak Djokovic.