Tennis is a sport of legendary rivalries that brings out the best in players while captivating fans around the globe. There have been several iconic rivalries over the years, and one of the greatest ones in men’s tennis is that of Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic.

In a recent interview, the legendary Serbian talked about the nature of his rivalry with Nadal. He also touched on topics like the responsibility they both carry towards the sport and their passionate fans.

Novak Djokovic on his friendship with Rafael Nadal

During his interview with Graham Bensinger, he was asked about the notion that Djokovic and Nadal’s friendship changed after he started beating the Spaniard. In response, Djokovic laughed and said, “We have to define what close friends mean.” Furthermore, he clarified, “We were never really close as I would be close with my childhood friends or he would be with his friends.”

The Serbian player elaborated on the fact that it is difficult to maintain a close friendship when they share an intense rivalry. He said, “It’s just very hard because you are both fighting for something that only one can get.” However, he did not limit the scope of it only to rivalry.

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He said, “But we always had respect for each other. Because I think we are all aware of how many kids look at us and look at what we do, what we say, how we behave, towards each other, towards the sport, towards other people.” He also added, “And the example that we give is something that is very important to all of us.”

The rivalry between Djokovic and Nadal

The players share a long and intense rivalry, which is still going strong. They have met each other 59 times on the tour and it is in favor of the Serbian by a ratio of 30:29. The last bout between the two was at the quarter-finals of the Roland Garros where the Spaniard won.

Moving on, the Serbian has 21 grand slam titles under his name and he would like to equalize the record of his arch-rival Nadal, who is currently leading the race with 22 titles.

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For this, he will have to win the US Open. However, the current restrictions on unvaccinated foreigners are very strict in the US, holding the Serb back from taking part in the last Grand Slam of the year.