Novak Djokovic was Asked about Nadal... his Response was Brilliant!

Summary

In this heartfelt interview, Novak Djokovic reflects on significant milestones in his career, including his 100th tour title in Geneva, his Olympic gold medal, and celebrating Rafael Nadal's legendary career. He shares insights into his relationship with Andy Murray, explaining the mutual decision to end their coach-player partnership. Novak also discusses his return to form after a challenging start to the season and his preference for technology over traditional line judges. Reflecting on the loss of his Big Four rivals, Novak expresses both pride and sadness, acknowledging the profound impact they had on his career and the emotional significance of Nadal’s farewell.

Takeaways

• 😀 Novak Djokovic reflects on his milestone 100th title win in Geneva and the emotions tied to it.
• 😀 Djokovic highlights the significance of celebrating Rafael Nadal's career and achievements during his ceremony.
• 😀 Djokovic expresses pride and happiness in being part of Nadal's farewell ceremony with fellow tennis legends, Federer and Murray.
• 😀 Djokovic discusses his close relationship with Andy Murray, emphasizing the valuable learning experiences from their partnership.
• 😀 Djokovic clarifies that his split with Murray was mutual and not initiated by either side.
• 😀 Djokovic shares that his recent Geneva title was important for his game and confidence, particularly heading into the French Open.
• 😀 Djokovic values match play and needed wins, especially on clay, to feel ready for major tournaments like Roland Garros.
• 😀 Djokovic mentions that despite not winning as many matches early in the season, he remains confident in his game.
• 😀 Djokovic expresses his preference for technology over traditional line umpires for more accuracy and efficiency during matches.
• 😀 Djokovic reflects on the emotional aspect of being the last member of the 'Big Four' still competing at a high level and the sadness of seeing his rivals retire.
• 😀 Djokovic shares his emotional reaction to Nadal's farewell speech and expresses a desire to be celebrated in a similar way when his career ends.

Q & A

How did Novak feel about winning his 100th tour title in Geneva?

Novak was pleased and saw it as an important milestone for his career. He mentioned that it was much needed for both his game and confidence, particularly as he prepared for the upcoming tournaments, including Roland Garros.

What were Novak's feelings about participating in Rafa's career celebration?

Novak described the experience as beautiful and one of the nicest moments of his career. He emphasized the importance of celebrating Rafa’s achievements, acknowledging that Rafa deserved a proper farewell, which he felt was lacking at previous events.

What kind of relationship does Novak have with Andy Murray, and how did their partnership end?

Novak and Andy share a long-standing friendship and mutual respect. They have spent most of their careers together, and Novak values Andy’s tennis IQ. Their coaching partnership ended mutually, as they both agreed that it was time to part ways after not achieving the expected results.

What did Novak think about Andy’s comment regarding his new coach and recent success?

Novak took Andy's comment as a lighthearted joke. Although Andy congratulated him, joking that having a 'proper coach' led to his tournament wins, Novak appreciated Andy’s comment but also highlighted their positive working relationship, despite the results not meeting expectations.

Why did Novak describe his victory in Geneva as 'much needed'?

Novak felt that winning in Geneva was crucial for him because it allowed him to gain match practice, particularly on clay, which he feels does not come naturally to him. He needed the matches to build confidence and prepare for the bigger tournaments, with Roland Garros being the top priority.

What is Novak’s opinion on the use of line judges versus electronic systems in tennis?

Novak expressed his understanding of traditionalists who prefer line umpires, but he personally favors technology. He believes it offers more accuracy, saves time, and reduces the number of people on the court, which can be beneficial, particularly on smaller courts.

How does Novak feel about being the last of the 'big four' still competing at the highest level?

Novak expressed both pride and sadness about being the last one standing. While he is proud of continuing to compete at the highest level, he also feels a sense of loss as his rivals, who were major motivations throughout his career, retire one by one.

How did Novak feel during Rafa’s farewell ceremony at Roland Garros?

Novak felt emotional during Rafa’s farewell, especially when reflecting on their fierce rivalries and the memories they shared. He admired the way Rafa poured his heart out during the ceremony and was touched by the reactions from Rafa's family and team.

What did Novak say about his rivalry with Rafa and other top players like Federer and Murray?

Novak reflected on the significance of his rivalries with Rafa, Federer, and Murray. He described them as his greatest motivations for competing at such a high level and noted that he values the memories of facing them in key matches throughout his career.

What is Novak’s perspective on the future of tennis and the possibility of his own farewell?

Novak stated that while he is proud to still be competing, he also recognizes that his time will eventually come. He expressed hope that one day, like Rafa, he would receive a grand farewell from the tennis community but hasn’t yet thought about the exact timing of his retirement.