Mats Wilander praises Djokovic for enduring the challenges posed by the legendary duo, as he looks to inspire the next generation of tennis stars.

In the world of tennis, few rivalries have captivated fans as profoundly as that of the “Big Three” — Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal. With the recent retirement of Nadal, who announced his decision to step away from the sport last week, Djokovic stands as the last man remaining from this illustrious trio. This transition marks a significant moment in tennis history, highlighting Djokovic’s resilience and dominance amidst a fiercely competitive landscape.

Mats Wilander, a former world No. 1, commended Djokovic for not only surviving the intense rivalry with Federer and Nadal but also for thriving in the aftermath of their departures. “I think Novak will feel so proud,” Wilander remarked during an interview with Eurosport. He acknowledged the bittersweet nature of Djokovic’s achievement, noting that while it signifies an end to an era, it also underscores Djokovic’s unparalleled success and longevity in the sport.

Having witnessed the remarkable journeys of Federer and Nadal, both of whom have set numerous records and garnered legions of fans worldwide, Djokovic’s career has been a testament to his tenacity and skill. As of now, he holds an impressive record of 24 Grand Slam titles, surpassing Nadal’s 22 and Federer’s 20. In addition, Djokovic has dominated the ATP Rankings, accumulating a staggering total of 428 weeks as the world’s No. 1 player — a feat that further cements his legacy in tennis history.

Wilander highlighted the unique position Djokovic occupies, stating, “He is the winningest male tennis player ever.” He pointed out that despite being younger than both Federer and Nadal, Djokovic has weathered the pressures and expectations that come with being part of this legendary rivalry. “He lived through the storm,” Wilander noted, emphasising the immense challenges Djokovic faced while competing against two of the greatest players the sport has ever seen.

Looking ahead, Djokovic is eager to test his skills against the rising stars of tennis, such as Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. Wilander acknowledged the profound impact that Federer and Nadal have had on this new generation, noting, “I think he sees it more than anyone, the effect that Federer and Nadal have had on Alcaraz and Sinner and the guys behind him.” Djokovic’s ability to adapt and evolve in the face of changing competition is a testament to his commitment to the sport.

As Djokovic continues his journey, he carries the legacy of the Big Three with him, while also paving the way for future generations of tennis players. His experiences and insights into the game will undoubtedly shape the landscape of tennis in the years to come. Wilander emphasised the physicality and mental resilience that Djokovic has brought to the sport, stating, “The effect of Novak is very clear when it comes to the physicality of all the players today.”

In a landscape that is ever-evolving, Djokovic’s presence serves as a bridge between the past and the future of tennis. With Federer and Nadal no longer competing, fans will be keen to see how Djokovic embraces his role as the elder statesman of the sport while continuing to chase further records and titles.

Djokovic’s story is one of determination, skill, and legacy. As he stands as the last man of the Big Three, the tennis world watches with anticipation to see how he will navigate this new chapter, inspiring not only the next generation of players but also millions of fans around the globe who have followed his incredible journey.