Novak Djokovic: Federer and Nadal made me the player I am today

Published at :June 24, 2020 at 9:37 PM

Modified at :June 24, 2020 at 9:37 PM

The 33-year-old firmly believes that he will take over both legends in terms of Grand Slam trophies.

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic heaped praise on his greatest rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal and said that both players have played a huge role in his growth as one of the greatest tennis players of all-time.

The Serbian player has won 17 Grand Slam titles in his illustrious career so far, while Federer has 20 and Nadal has 19 titles to his name. The rivalry between these three legends has also intensified the ‘GOAT’ debate in the last decade, with fans taking sides of their favourite players. The big three have won the last 13 Grand Slam titles among themselves.

Novak Djokovic stated that their rivalry is good for the promotion of the sport and he will continue to work hard in order to become the most successful tennis player of all-time.

"What Roger and Rafa are doing is epic. Both of them are legends. They do inspire me and I have said this millions of times and I will say it again. They made me the player I am today. They still continue to inspire me and motivate me to be even better, said Novak Djokovic to Tennis Channel.

"I think these rivalries that we have are a great promotion for our sport. They are really good for tennis in general and also for the upcoming generations. Hopefully, we give a positive example and inspire younger players to be the best they can possibly be."

The 17-time Grand Slam champion is younger then both Federer and Nadal. He started 2020 with his eighth Australian Open title before the coronavirus pandemic affected the season. However, Novak Djokovic is in no mood to stop right now.

"I like to have long-term goals and be devoted to them. But, at the same, I time have my daily goals, daily routines, the weekly routines, the season goals and understand what is best for me and my team. I love this sport. I'm very passionate and devoted to it. As long as there is that flair in me I am going to keep going," concluded Djokovic.