“Hard to make a prediction on Rafael Nadal… Novak Djokovic has chances” – Roger Federer assesses future of his two biggest rivals

Legendary Roger Federer has shed light on the future of his two biggest rivals – Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. The Swiss Maestro said it is tough for him to comment on Nadal as the Spaniard has been out of action due to injury concerns but feels Novak Djokovic can keep on going strong at the top level.

Nadal only played at the Roland Garros and the Paris Olympics and withdrew from other Slams of the year because he hadn’t achieved 100% fitness. Furthermore, the 22-time Grand Slam champion recently opted out of the Laver Cup.

On the other hand, Novak Djokovic won the gold medal at the Olympics but could not go all the way in any of the Majors in the season.

“With Rafa we don’t know — it remains to be seen. It’s hard for me to make a prediction on Rafa because of the little tennis he has played this year,” Federer said on Laver Cup pre-tournament press conference.

“Novak, winning the Olympics and playing somewhat let’s say a full season — he didn’t bow out because of injuries, he chose to play less which is normal when you get a bit older. I feel like he has chances moving forward,” Federer added.

The 20-time Slam was hopeful that Nadal would play for Team Europe in the Laver Cup but it isn’t going to be the case.

“I had high hopes that somehow he would manage to play a match, but he simply told us he preferred not to, that he can’t and doesn’t feel prepared. I think he has to decide what to do next, and I think that’s the moment he is going through right now,” Federer said.

Nadal has a 12-7 match record on the season. The Spaniard suffered a hip injury in 2023, which has kept him out of action.

The Laver Cup will run from 20-22 September.