In a twist that few saw coming, tennis legends Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic have shared their unexpected and heartfelt reactions to the news of Rafael Nadal’s imminent retirement. The three icons, who have dominated tennis for nearly two decades, share a storied rivalry that has shaped the sport. Nadal’s decision to step away from professional tennis at the end of the 2024 season has prompted both Federer and Djokovic to express sentiments that reveal the deep respect and complex relationship between these fierce competitors.

Roger Federer, who retired in 2022 after a historic career, was one of the first to respond publicly to Nadal’s announcement. Despite their intense battles on the court, Federer and Nadal have maintained a close friendship over the years, famously known as “Fedal.” Speaking at a recent event, Federer described Nadal’s retirement as “the end of an era” and reflected on their many matches, including their iconic Wimbledon final in 2008, which is still regarded as one of the greatest tennis matches of all time.

Federer’s reaction was filled with admiration and respect, as he acknowledged the incredible impact Nadal has had on the game. “It’s hard to imagine tennis without Rafa,” Federer said. “His tenacity, his willpower, and his sportsmanship have been unparalleled. Even though we were rivals, I always looked up to him in a way. The sport will miss him, but his legacy will last forever.”

Federer’s response was unexpected in its emotional depth, showing the bond that grew between the two players despite their rivalry. “Rafa pushed me to become a better player. He’s been my greatest rival, and yet, one of my closest friends in this world.”

Novak Djokovic, Nadal’s other arch-rival, also weighed in on the news with an equally unexpected tone. Over the years, Djokovic and Nadal have had some of the most grueling and intense matches in tennis history, battling it out on nearly every surface. Their fierce competition often placed them as the two most physically dominant players in the sport.

However, in response to Nadal’s retirement, Djokovic surprised many by showing genuine warmth and gratitude. “Rafa is one of the greatest athletes this world has ever seen,” Djokovic remarked during a press conference. “Our rivalry has been one of the defining aspects of my career. I’ve learned so much from every match we’ve played—whether I won or lost, Rafa always brought something extra out of me.”

Djokovic continued, “He’s a fighter, a true champion, and it will be strange not having him out there competing anymore. We’ve shared so many moments on the court, both good and bad, but there’s no denying the respect I have for him as a player and a person.”

What was particularly unexpected was Djokovic’s candid admission that Nadal’s retirement has made him reflect on his own future. “With Rafa stepping away, it reminds me that we are all nearing the end of this incredible journey. I know I’ll miss our battles, but I also know that Rafa will continue to inspire, even beyond tennis.”

The reactions from Federer and Djokovic are a testament to the unique nature of the rivalry they shared with Nadal. While their matches were marked by intense competition, off the court, the three men developed a mutual respect that transcended their battles. They each pushed one another to reach new heights, and their careers are forever intertwined in the history of tennis.

Nadal’s retirement marks the beginning of the end of the “Big Three” era, which has seen Federer, Djokovic, and Nadal dominate the sport for nearly two decades. Together, they have won an astonishing 65 Grand Slam titles, with Nadal holding the record for the most French Open titles at 14.

Nadal’s announcement has sent shockwaves through the tennis world, with fans, fellow players, and commentators all paying tribute to his extraordinary career. Many are expressing disbelief that the end is near for a player who has been a pillar of consistency, resilience, and passion.

As Nadal steps away, the tennis landscape is poised for a new generation to take center stage. However, the legacy left by Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic will be hard to match. The three have set an unprecedented standard, not only in their level of play but also in their sportsmanship and respect for one another.

Federer and Djokovic’s reactions to Nadal’s retirement serve as a powerful reminder of the respect that exists between these giants of tennis. While their rivalries may have been fierce on the court, their shared experiences, struggles, and triumphs have bonded them in a way that only fellow greats can understand.

Nadal’s retirement will leave a massive void in the sport, but his legacy, along with those of Federer and Djokovic, will continue to inspire future generations of tennis players and fans alike.