Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal inflicted some of the most disappointing defeats on one another, but they also hold each other in high regard.
That's at least from Djokovic's standpoint as the Serbian considers Nadal by far his greatest rival. They played many times, sometimes it was Djokovic who won, other times it was Nadal but they always respected each other.
Speaking at Wimbledon, Djokovic once again praised Nadal for what he's been able to achieve this year and what he's trying to do moving forward. They both value their legacy and they both want to make it even bigger.
"Just in general, overall, things that he is trying to do, to create even more of a successful legacy for himself on the court is something that you just have to respect and admire."
"Of course, even though we are biggest rivals and we had incredible matches during our careers, I have nothing but respect for him and what he has achieved."
Djokovic certainly can appreciate what Nadal has done and he certainly knows how hard it has been for him. It's always inspiration between rivals because the two of them, as well as Roger Federer, credited their rivals for pushing them to achieve even more.
Although they are all incredibly successful and talented tennis players, maybe if they didn't have one another, neither would reach the heights that they managed to reach.
"He had surgery, in the second part of last year and coming back after that surgery and winning a Grand Slam right away is something that is really impressive of course."
"Making history as well with Grand Slam wins - in Roland Garros - a tournament where historically he has won the most titles, so hats down. I mean what he has achieved and what he keeps on doing on the court, great fighting spirit, amazing champion."
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