By Chris Oddo | @TheFanChild | Thursday October 10, 2024
They were heated rivals. So much so, that they rarely had time for friendship. Such was the sway of the Nadal - Djokovic rivalry, which spanned three decades, and 60 meetings, so many of them truly epic.
Today, when Rafael Nadal announced the end of his career, Djokovic responded with a heartfelt post on Twitter, thanking the 38-year-old for inspiring millions – including himself.
“Rafa, one post is not enough to express the respect I have for you and what you have done for our sport,” Djokovic wrote. “You have inspired millions of children to start playing tennis and I think that’s probably the greatest achievement anyone can wish for. Your tenacity, dedication, fighting spirit is going to be taught for decades. Your legacy will live forever. Only you know what you had to endure to become an icon of tennis and sport in general.
“Thank you for pushing me to the very limit so many times in our rivalry that has impacted me the most as a player.”
Djokovic who won 31 of the sixty matchups, but was lost 11 of 18 at the majors, defeated Nadal en route to his gold medal at the Paris Olympics this year. It was the pair’s last meeting. Djokovic commended Nadal for his patriotism as well.
“Your passion for representing Spain has always been remarkable. I wish you best possible farewell in Malaga with Davis Cup team of Spain. I will be there in person to pay respect to your stellar career.”