Denis Shapovalov, Dominic Thiem, and Thanasi Kokkinakis recently shared their thoughts on facing Roger Federer and how it compares to playing against Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal. Shapovalov had a strong finish to 2024 by clinching the Serbia Open in Belgrade, even after battling through two qualifying rounds. He triumphed over Marton Fucsovics, Nuno Borges, Christopher O’Connell, Jiri Lehecka, and Hamad Medjedovic in the main draw before receiving his trophy from Novak Djokovic.
Meanwhile, Kokkinakis showcased his skills at the Davis Cup Finals with an intense match against Ben Shelton. Despite Shelton having four match points, Kokkinakis emerged victorious. However, he later faced a narrow defeat against Matteo Berrettini in the semifinals. Fans might think that with such performances, Kokkinakis could have an amazing 2025 if he keeps up this level of play.
Thiem announced his retirement at the Vienna Open this season due to a persistent wrist injury that hindered his performance since winning the 2020 US Open. As these players looked back on their experiences with Federer, they couldn’t help but notice how different he was compared to others like Nadal or Djokovic.
| Name | Age | Points | Stats 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| ca Denis Shapovalov | 25 | 550 | 9 - 14 |
Reflections on Federer’s Unique Style:
Shapovalov remarked that playing Federer felt like being a junior again despite defeating top players like Rublev and Tiafoe along the way. “But Federer can literally make you feel like a junior,” he said about their Miami semifinal clash. “He is just messing around… I felt like Rafa was so predictable.”
Kokkinakis echoed similar sentiments about feeling ridiculous on court when facing Federer: “No one can make you feel more ridiculous than him.” He humorously noted Federer’s seemingly effortless style: “I’ve never seen him sweat dude.”
Thiem also shared insights into Federer’s unpredictable tactics despite having a decent record against him: “You feel like okay… then first point… he steps in and goes down the line.”
Federer’s elegance contrasted sharply with Nadal’s power and Djokovic’s precision during their era of dominance. Interestingly enough only Djokovic remains active today as both Federer retired at Laver Cup 2022 while Nadal ended his career after Spain’s exit from Davis Cup Finals last week.
What do you think about these tennis legends?
