Novak Djokovic talks about his special relationship with his long-standing rivals Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. The Serb also assesses his chances of winning the Golden Slam
A few days after his historic title at the ATP Finals in Turin, Novak Djokovic has spoken out about his long-time rivals Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer and explained why he can’t be friends with them.
“It’s true that we can’t be friends, because with friends you talk about everything, the good, the bad and your secrets,” the Serb said in an interview with Marca, adding: “I don’t think you feel very comfortable with your rivals when you reveal all that. “
However, Djokovic emphasized the enormous respect he has for Federer and Nadal. The two are “a very important part” of his life. “In the last 15 years, I’ve seen them more often than my parents,” added the 36-year-old.
Moreover, Djokovic is sure that the three rivals will take a more relaxed view of the whole thing when they have all ended their careers at some point.
Golden Slam? Djokovic: “I know myself “
In sporting terms, Djokovic still has ambitious goals in mind. When asked whether he thought it was realistic to win the Golden Slam in 2024 at the age of 37, he replied with a rhetorical question: “Was it realistic to think that I would win three of the four Grand Slams this year?” So far, only Steffi Graf has won the Golden Slam from all four majors and the gold medal at the Olympics in one year
Djokovic emphasized that he did not want to sound disrespectful to his opponents, but with regard to a possible Golden Slam, he said: “I know myself and I know that I am capable of it when I feel good physically and mentally.”
The Serbian already has the most Grand Slam titles, the longest time as world No. 1 and the most ATP Finals won to his name.
However, there is one special record he is determined to achieve, that of Jimmy Connors. The US icon has won 109 tournaments on the ATP Tour and leads the rankings ahead of Federer (103) and Djokovic (98). “I want to win as many tournaments as possible and overtake Connors,” emphasized Djokovic
