With Federer retiring and Nadal hardly playing owing to injuries, the Big Three discussions have lost some of their significance.
In contrast, Djokovic has made history with his Grand Slam trophies and weeks as the world’s top player. However, in defending Nadal, former top-10 player Schwartzman offered fresh justification for why the Frenchman was the most difficult opponent.
Schwartzman’s single victory came at the 2020 Rome Masters, making Nadal the only one of the Big Three that he has been able to defeat. He is 0-7 against Djokovic and 0-4 against Federer, with a 1-11 record against the Spaniard. Even yet, the four-time champion still found it more challenging to go up against Nadal.
“Out of the three, I believe Rafa is the one who commands the greatest respect when you walk into the court.” You feel a little more defeated when you step onto the court, Schwartzman said to ESPN’s Generation F. The former world No. 8 claims that Nadal’s strategy for each point he plays contributes to some of that intimidating aspect.
By signing up, you allow us to better understand you and deliver material in ways that you have approved to.
Advertising from us and other parties may be included, depending on what we understand. Unsubscribing is possible at any time.
The Argentine went on, “With the others, Federer, being so easygoing, sometimes gives you chances to get into the match, and if you catch Djokovic mad one day or if he grabs a couple of balls and has moments of irritation.
However, Nadal gives the impression that this is the last stage of his career from the minute you begin playing with him. It’s challenging.
Schwartzman claimed that the 22-time Major champion worried his opponents because he left them feeling helpless in every match, even though he managed to win their Rome quarterfinal 6-2 7-5. He said, “He demands so much respect in you that you ask yourself, ‘How do I do it?'”
And he manages that flawlessly, taking less strokes than Djokovic or Federer while continuing to win. It is really challenging to continue doing what he does right away.
Due to injuries, Nadal hasn’t been able to demonstrate his intimidating nature during the past 12 months. After suffering a left psoas strain at the 2023 Australian Open, the Spaniard had surgery in June of last year and was unable to play any more matches.
After making a comeback at the Brisbane International in January, he participated in two encouraging games before suffering another injury during his quarterfinal loss.
The 37-year-old was forced to withdraw from the Australian Open due to a microtear in his muscle. He had planned to return to Doha, but he withdrew.
After that, Nadal traveled to America and played an exhibition match in Las Vegas against Carlos Alcaraz, losing. He was eager to return to Indian Wells official competition, but he pulled out a day before his opening round.
