After defeating Jakub Mensik to earn a ticket to the Shanghai Masters 1,000 semi-finals, Novak Djokovic They questioned him at the foot of the track about the withdrawal of Rafa Nadal.
The Serb, still upset by the news, had only good words and gratitude towards the Manacorí.
“I already posted it on Instagram. He was my biggest rival, the rivalry I had with him. It is by far the one that has had the most impact on me in my career.“, it began.
“We knew this moment would come sooner rather than later, but it’s still a shock when it officially arrives,” he added.
Without Roger Federer, Andy Murray and Rafa Nadal, “Nole” recognizes that a part of him is gone with them.
“Also for Roger a few years ago when he announced his retirement and for Andy as well this year. It’s a bit overwhelming for me. I don’t know what to make of it, I still love competing, but a part of me left with them, a big part of me“, he explained.
“So yes, it’s hard news for the world of tennis and sport. Rafa is a source of inspiration for millions of children around the world, so he can be very proud of his career,” he said. he concluded.
“A big part of me left with them” 🥹
Novak Djokovic on Nadal’s retirement announcement @DjokerNolé#RolexShanghaiMasterspic.twitter.com/Y5UtOThfg8
– Tennis TV (@TennisTV) October 11, 2024
