Novak Djokovic (Photo : WireImage)
Novak Djokovic admitted that Rafael Nadal is the tennis rival behind his success on the court.
In an interview with Spanish media outlet Marca, Djokovic heaped praise at his career rival Nadal, whom the Serb considered as the figure that helped him to become the player he is today. The Belgrade native confessed Nadal has been a role model for him, citing the Spaniard's incredible career that started 15 years ago.
"As something very beautiful and special. It's a privilege to have played him so many times because he is a legend in our sport. The rivalry with Rafa have helped me to become the player I am today." Djokovic said.
Djokovic and Nadal will have a chance to once again meet each other on the court at the Madrid Open. The world No. 1 has won their last six outings, most recently in the semifinal round of Indian Wells. The top seed Djokovic is also the top favorite to win the ATP 1000 Masters event in the Spanish capital, despite suffering a rare loss in Monte Carlo last month.
But in spite of the number games against Nadal, Djokovic is not entirely convinced he has a sure shot of defeating the world No. 5 again, especially now that the 29-year-old seems to have found his tennis mojo back.
"I think Rafa is everybody's main rival on clay courts because of his history on this surface and the results that he's had throughout his career," Djokovic said, reports the ATP's official website.
"This year, he's already showing a much higher quality of tennis. He really played terrifically in both Monte-Carlo and Barcelona. I'm sure he's very motivated to do well here on his favourite surface. He's definitely the player to beat."
Nadal has come off impressive runs in Monaco and Barcelona, winning back-to-back titles, a feat he has not done since winning the Cincinnati Masters and US Open in 2013. The Mallorcan has continued to display his vintage form after successfully opening the Madrid Open with a win against Andrey Kuznetsov 6-3 6-3.
Meanwhile, Djokovic starts his Madrid Open campaign against Croatian Borna Coric, who defeated Spain's Nicolas Almagro 6-2 6-2 in the opening round.
With the clay surface seemingly on Nadal's side, Djokovic may truly find it hard to beat the King of Clay in Madrid, and unless he makes another dominating run in his second clay-tournament of the season, that may also be the case at the French Open later this month.
