Novak Djokovic (35, Serbia) greeted ‘tennis emperor’ Roger Federer (41, Switzerland), who announced his retirement, “Your career is an example of ‘excellence’.”
“It’s hard to put into words all the moments we’ve been together,” Djokovic said on social media on the 16th (local time).
Djokovic, along with Federer and Rafael Nadal (36, Spain), was called the ‘Big 3’ of men’s tennis in the 2000s.
Djokovic, who has won 21 majors in singles, is chasing Nadal (22) and ahead of Federer, who has won 20.
“Your career with Federer has set the bar for excellence,” Djokovic wrote.
He said, “There will be great new chapters coming to you in the future,” and wished you a good time with your family.
He added that they would meet at the Laver Cup next week, when Federer will make his retirement stage.
Federer and Djokovic met 50 times, with Djokovic leading the way with 27 wins and 23 losses.
In the major championships, they met 17 times and Djokovic took the lead with 11-6, and in the major finals, Djokovic won more with 4-1.
In particular, in the 2019 Wimbledon final, Djokovic went 3-2 (7-6) following a close battle of 4 hours and 57 minutes. 1-6 7-6 4-6 13-12) to win is considered a famous match.
Federer took a 40-15 lead in his sub game leading 8-7 in the five-set game, but it didn’t end the game.
If Federer had won, this would have been his last major win.
Federer’s last major win was the 2018 Australian Open.
/yunhap news
