Novak Djokovic paid tribute to Rafael Nadal, who will retire from sports in November, during an exhibition tournament on Saturday in Riyadh, where he faced and beat for “last time (his) biggest rival”.
“Don’t quit tennis, man”launched the 37-year-old Serbian, world number 4 and record holder for Grand Slam victories (24) onto the court at the 38-year-old Spanish legend whom he had just beaten 6-2, 7-6 (7/ 5).
The two players, who formed with the Swiss Roger Federer the famous « Big Three » of world tennis, have faced each other 60 times on the main circuit before this exhibition match, with Djokovic leading 31 victories to 29.
It was “a very moving day, a special day” because it was “the last time I played against my biggest rival, Nadal”confided Djokovic at a press conference.
“I saw Andy Murray retire this year at Wimbledon, Roger (Federer) a few years ago too. And now Rafa. It’s hard to see them go.”he added.
Nadal thanked Djokovic for “the incredible rivalry” et “for all the moments we shared on the court”.
The Majorcan with 22 Grand Slam titles, including 14 at Roland Garros, plans to play the final phase of the Davis Cup in Malaga next month (November 19-24), at the end of which he will retire.
