The trio formed the Big Three in tennis and their rivalry transcended tennis for more than two decades, but all good things must come to an end as Federer retired in September 2022 while Nadal will call it a day after this year’s Davis Cup Finals in November.
When asked about his relationships with his fellow greats during an interview with DAZN, Nadal said the fact that they realised there is more to life than tennis was key.
With Roger I have a special relationship, but with Novak too I have a good relationship,” he said.
“It’s the way you approach the sport because in the end, we understand, that’s all it is a match.
In life, we have more important things outside of tennis.
“At the end of the day, if you have a good relationship with your colleagues, those around you with people in general, undoubtedly the experience will be happier.
In the end, tennis is only a game, relationships go beyond that.”
He added: “That is the beautiful thing about sports.
You always need to have a clear goal and determination to be better and better and better.
Having big opponents in front gives you a clearer perspective on what things you need to keep doing.”
