Djokovic admits: Nadal is the reason for the development of my career

Serbian Novak Djokovic joked that he was relieved after Rafael Nadal withdrew from the French Open due to injury but had great respect for his long-time rival, saying that "part of him will leave if the Spaniard retires next year." "I have to say he's my biggest rival. When he announced that next season would be the last of his career, I felt that part of me would leave with him as well. I feel like he was one of the most influential people in my career, the evolution of my career and my development as a player."
Nadal has not recovered in time from a groin injury sustained at the Australian Open and the 14-time French Open winner has said next year could be the last of his professional career.

Both players have won 22 Grand Slam titles, but Djokovic may be the record for Grand Slam wins at Roland Garros, beating Nadal twice in ten encounters. Djokovic told reporters with a laugh: "Honestly, I don't miss him in the draw. I don't like seeing him in the Roland Garros draw." "I didn't have much success in the head-to-head matches that brought us together at Roland Garros. I beat them twice, but I had to do my best to achieve them."

"Many ruled that his career ended ten years ago, but he continued to play, which I respect and appreciate. I know it's hard to maintain that level and move on even after a tough injury." Djokovic said he was surprised by Nadal's announcement, noting that the Spaniard had pushed him to give his best over the years in which both players dominated the sport. "Definitely, it's a factor that motivates me to keep playing, keep competing and pushing each other – who will achieve more and who will play better."