Novak Djokovic shares Rafael Nadal’s ‘huge success’ on social media | ATP Tour
Rafael Nadal
Djokovic shared Nadal’s ‘huge success’ on social media
Serbian says ‘rival’s legacy will live forever’
October 10, 2024
Anne-Christine Poujoulat/AFP via Getty Images
Novak Djokovic leads Rafael Nadal 31-29 in their Lexus ATP Head2Head series.
By ATP staff
Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal have been battling it out on the tennis court for nearly two decades, yet their rivalry goes beyond mere competition. There is a deep mutual respect between the two legends, a sentiment Djokovic captured well in a social media tribute to Nadal, who announced on Thursday that he will retire in November.
“One post is not enough to express the respect I have for you and what you have done for our game,” Djokovic wrote. “He has inspired millions of kids to start playing tennis and I think that is the greatest achievement anyone could wish for. Your strength, your dedication, and your fighting spirit will be taught for decades.”
Rafa, one post is not enough to express the respect I have for you and what you have done for our game. He has inspired millions of kids to start playing tennis and I think that is the greatest achievement anyone could wish for. Your strength, dedication, fighting spirit… pic.twitter.com/HO9kUkyccN
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) October 10, 2024
Both former No. 1s in the PIF ATP Rankings, Djokovic and Nadal have contested countless epic exhibitions, often lasting hours and testing the physical limits and mental endurance of both players. Djokovic and Nadal have met a record 60 times, with the Serbian holding a 31-29 lead in their Lexus ATP Head2Head series.
It is one of the biggest rivals not only in tennis, but in sports.
“Your legacy will live on forever,” added Djokovic. “Only you know what you had to endure to become an icon of tennis and sports in general. Thank you for pushing me many times in our rivalry which has had a great impact on me as a player.”
The 38-year-old Nadal will compete in his final tournament at the Davis Cup Finals, which will be held in Malaga, Spain from November 19-24.
“Your passion for representing Spain is always amazing,” said Djokovic. “I wish you a good farewell in Malaga and the Spanish Davis Cup team. I will be there in person to honor your professional work.”
