Juan Martin del Potro bid a very emotional farewell to the sport at Buenos Aires. The Argentine had a storied and celebrated 17-year career, in which he faced the Big 3 on several occasions. In an old clip which resurfaced after Delpo’s retirement, Roger Federer praised the Argentine for his playing attributes.

When asked about picking between 2 Argentine greats, Del Potro and David Nalbandian Federer selected 33-year-old Juan. The Swiss maestro said, “I think the best Del Potro is a little bit more difficult to beat, because of the serve and the forehand. It’s less in your control.” Of course, Roger acknowledged Nalbadian’s greatness but considers Potro a more difficult opponent.

Del Potro is an offensive baseline player and possesses a powerful serve. A deep, flat, topspin groundstroke forces his opponents deeper in the court. His forehand and serve caused difficulties to many fellow professionals and have been his main artillery of the game.

Roger Federer highlighted this attribute of his game as he said, “maybe just the sheer power that Juan Martin brings is harder to control, so maybe it’s a bit more difficult.” Porto surprised everyone when he defeated Rafael Nadal in the semis and Roger Federer in the final for his maiden US Open 2009 title.

Roger Federer Vs Del Potro

Del Potro was one bright star in the “Big 3 era”. The former World No. 3  managed to get some impressive victories over them in important matches. He stands just behind the other “big 3” challenger, Andy Murray. Murray won 29 matches while Potro has won 17 matches against the Big 3.

He was unlucky to be playing in an era dominated by the three superstars, and injuries have also cruelly curtailed his proficiency. Among the top 3 players, Delpo managed seven wins against Roger Federer. But Djokovic was difficult to beat for the Argentine, as he won just 4 matches against him.

He is a true great of modern tennis and the tennis world will sorely miss him now that he has bid his goodbye to the sport.  

Also Read: ‘Incredibly Well Prepared’ – 6-Time Grand Slam Champion Says Novak Djokovic Will Surpass Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal