Novak Djokovic’s Sad Theory Backed by Grigor Dimitrov: “I Don’t See That Now”

Veteran Stars Reflect on Changing ATP Tour

Grigor Dimitrov has echoed Novak Djokovic’s sentiments on watching their longtime rivals step away from tennis. This year has witnessed a series of emotional farewells as Dominic Thiem, Andy Murray, Angelique Kerber, and Rafael Nadal prepare to retire, leaving Djokovic as the last of the Big Four still active on tour.

High-Profile Retirements Shake the Tennis World

Dominic Thiem recently ended his career at the Vienna Open, and Rafael Nadal is set to retire after the Davis Cup Finals. Djokovic, who has battled alongside these stars for over a decade, admitted that a part of him was “leaving” with each of his old foes.

“It’s overwhelming,” Djokovic said, reflecting on his Big Four rivals entering retirement.

Dimitrov Shares Nostalgia for Past Rivalries

Dimitrov, also feeling the shift, expressed how tough it has been to watch his peers leave.

“It’s sad… seeing these guys that are pushing you to do better, it takes a little piece away from you,” he told Eurosport.

While Dimitrov, 33, has seen a resurgence this season, winning the Brisbane International and reaching the top 10, he’s noticed a difference in the younger generation’s camaraderie.

“Off the court, it was a lot of fun; we were always poking fun at each other, and I don’t see that now,” Dimitrov admitted. “I miss that healthy competitiveness.”

Djokovic Struggles to Adjust as Last of the Big Four

With Nadal’s retirement, Djokovic will stand alone as the last active member of the Big Four. Despite his ongoing passion for competition, Djokovic confessed that each farewell has been difficult.

“Part of me left with them, a big part of me,” he shared, adding that the wave of retirements has been “a bit overwhelming.”