It’s been over 20 years since Novak played his first tournament. Honestly, there is no need to discuss his achievements, we all know he is the best, a GOAT!
What I wanted to write is about his rivalries.
Did you know that Novak faced over 300 different tennis players by now?
Let’s start with some well-known names.
Djokovic vs Nadal H2H
In the annals of tennis history, few rivalries have captivated the world like that between the GOAT and Rafael Nadal. Their head-to-head encounters, spanning over a decade, have been marked by intense competition, thrilling comebacks, and a showcase of unparalleled skill and determination.
As of their last encounter, Novak leads Nadal with a head-to-head record of 30-29. This intense rivalry has seen them clash in all four Grand Slam finals and numerous ATP tour events, making their encounters a highlight of the sport.
The year 2024 might become the moment when Novak will make an even bigger difference by winning at least one more Grand Slam.
Grand Slam Battles
One of the most fascinating aspects of their rivalry is their meetings at Grand Slam tournaments. Here, Nadal holds an edge with an 11-7 lead.
Memorable Victories
2011 Wimbledon Final
- Score: 6-4, 6-1, 1-6, 6-3
- Highlight: Djokovic’s first Wimbledon title came at the expense of Nadal. His relentless baseline game and impeccable defense frustrated Nadal, leading to a convincing victory and establishing the Serbian player at the top of the ATP rankings.
2011 US Open Final
- Score: 6-2, 6-4, 6-7(3), 6-1
- Highlight: On the hard courts of Flushing Meadows, he showcased his superior hard-court skills and tactical acumen. Despite dropping the third set in a tiebreak, he roared back in the fourth, overwhelming Nadal with precision and power.
2012 Australian Open Final
- Score: 5-7, 6-4, 6-2, 6-7(5), 7-5
- Highlight: This epic five-set match is often considered one of the greatest tennis matches ever played. Lasting nearly six hours, Novak displayed incredible endurance and mental toughness to outlast Nadal. His ability to stay aggressive and maintain composure under immense pressure was key to his victory.
2015 French Open Quarterfinal
- Score: 7-5, 6-3, 6-1
- Highlight: Defeating Nadal on the clay courts of Roland Garros was a significant milestone. Known as the “King of Clay,” Nadal had been nearly unbeatable at the French Open, but relentless aggression and precision groundstrokes dismantled him in straight sets.
2019 Australian Open Final
- Score: 6-3, 6-2, 6-3
- Highlight: In a commanding performance, Novak dominated Nadal from start to finish. His flawless execution, combined with his ability to dictate play, left Nadal with few answers. This victory gave Djokovic his seventh Australian Open title, setting a record for the most titles won at the tournament by any player.
2021 French Open Semifinal
- Score: 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(4), 6-2
- Highlight: In one of the most significant matches of their rivalry, Novak defeated Nadal in the semifinals of the French Open, ending Nadal’s reign on clay. His resilience and tactical adjustments throughout the match allowed him to overcome the physical and mental challenge posed by Nadal on his favored surface.
Dominance in All Areas
Novak Djokovic has systematically dismantled Rafael Nadal’s dominance in several ways, fundamentally altering the dynamics of their rivalry and the landscape of professional tennis.
Psychological Edge
He has managed to get into Nadal’s head, particularly in high-stakes matches. By consistently challenging Nadal on his favorite surfaces and beating him in crucial games, the Serbian has shifted his mental balance. This psychological advantage has often seen Nadal doubting his usual strategies, leading to more unforced errors and tactical missteps.
Tactical Brilliance
Djokovic’s game is built on an exceptional defensive foundation combined with aggressive baseline play. His ability to return almost any shot with interest and to turn defense into attack has often left Nadal scrambling. Djokovic’s deep returns and his strategy of targeting Nadal’s backhand have neutralized Nadal’s potent forehand, forcing him out of his comfort zone.
Physical Resilience
The physical endurance of Djokovic has been a key factor in their rivalry. Matches between them often extend to the limit, testing stamina and physical conditioning. Djokovic’s superior fitness has allowed him to outlast Nadal in marathon matches, which has been crucial in grinding down Nadal’s usually robust physical game.
Versatility Across Surfaces
While Nadal is the undisputed “King of Clay,” Djokovic has proven his mettle across all surfaces. His victories on grass, hard courts, and even clay have ensured that he remains a formidable opponent in any setting. This versatility has forced Nadal to adapt constantly, often with less success, as Djokovic’s all-court game remains consistently strong.
Djokovic vs Federer H2H
These two legends have faced off 50 times, with Djokovic leading the head-to-head 27-23. Their battles have provided some of the most memorable moments in the sport.
Grand Slam Battles
Djokovic holds an 11-6 advantage over Federer in Grand Slam matches, including several crucial finals that have defined their careers.
Memorable Victories
2011 US Open Semifinal
Score: 6-7(7), 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 7-5
In an incredible comeback, Djokovic saved two match points in the fifth set, breaking Federer’s spirit and advancing to the final.
2014 Wimbledon Final
Score: 6-7(7), 6-4, 7-6(4), 5-7, 6-4
He outlasted Federer in an epic five-set battle, securing his second Wimbledon title and proving his mettle on grass.
2015 US Open Final
Score: 6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-4
His relentless play and tactical precision were too much for Federer, earning him his second US Open title.
2019 Wimbledon Final
Score: 7-6(5), 1-6, 7-6(4), 4-6, 13-12(3)
In the longest Wimbledon final ever, Djokovic saved two championship points to win in an unprecedented fifth-set tiebreaker, a match that will go down in history for its drama and intensity.
Dominance Over Federer
Psychological Edge
The best tennis player ever has a knack for getting under Federer’s skin, especially in crucial moments. His ability to save match points and turn the tide has left Federer visibly shaken in several encounters.
Tactical Brilliance
His game plan against Federer often involves wearing him down with long rallies and exploiting his backhand. This strategy has consistently paid off, especially in tight matches.
Physical Resilience
One of Djokovic’s greatest strengths is his endurance. He can outlast Federer in marathon matches, keeping his energy levels high even as the match drags on.
Versatility Across Surfaces
His ability to win on any surface has made him a nightmare opponent for Federer. Whether it’s grass, clay, or hard courts, famous Serbian has found ways to adapt and emerge victorious.
Djokovic vs Andy Murray H2H
With a head-to-head record of 25-11 in favor of legend, their encounters have been marked by high-intensity battles and strategic depth.
Grand Slam Battles
In Grand Slam tournaments, the Serbian star leads Murray 8-2, reflecting his dominance on the biggest stages. Their clashes in major finals have often been pivotal moments in both players’ careers.
Memorable Victories
2011 Australian Open Final
Score: 6-4, 6-2, 6-3
Novak outplayed Murray in straight sets, showcasing his superior baseline play and mental toughness to claim his second Australian Open title.
2012 Shanghai Masters Final
Score: 5-7, 7-6(11), 6-3
In a dramatic match, Djokovic saved five match points, demonstrating his resilience and ability to perform under pressure to win the title.
2015 Australian Open Final
Score: 7-6(5), 6-7(4), 6-3, 6-0
After a tight first two sets, Djokovic raised his game to dominate Murray, especially in the final set, securing his fifth Australian Open crown.
2016 French Open Final
Score: 3-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-4
This victory was particularly significant as it completed Djokovic’s career Grand Slam, a feat that highlighted his versatility and superiority across all surfaces.
Dominance Over Murray
Psychological Edge
The Serbian ace has consistently held a psychological advantage over Murray. His ability to stay composed in crucial moments and come back from difficult positions has often left Murray struggling to find answers.
Tactical Superiority
His game plan against Murray typically involves deep, aggressive baseline rallies, exploiting Murray’s defensive play. This approach has forced Murray to play out of his comfort zone, leading to numerous errors and breakdowns under pressure.
Djokovic vs Other Big Names
Djokovic vs Wawrinka H2H
Novak and Stan Wawrinka have faced each other 25 times, with a Serbian leading their head-to-head record 19-6. Despite this, Wawrinka has managed to win two of their most important encounters.
In the 2015 French Open Final, Wawrinka won 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4, denying him a career Grand Slam by claiming his first French Open title. In the 2016 US Open Final, Wawrinka triumphed again with a score of 6-7(1), 6-4, 7-5, 6-3.
Djokovic vs Del Potro H2H
Novak and Juan Martin del Potro have had a series of intense matches. Djokovic leads their head-to-head record 16-4.
In the 2018 US Open Final, Serbian won 6-3, 7-6(4), 6-3, demonstrating his superior hard-court skills and mental fortitude in securing his third US Open title.
Djokovic vs Berdych H2H
Novak has a dominant record against Tomas Berdych, leading 25-3 in their head-to-head encounters. A notable match was the 2013 Wimbledon Quarterfinal, where the GOAT won 7-6(5), 6-4, 6-3.
Djokovic vs Tsitsipas H2H
Against Stefanos Tsitsipas, the Serbian leads 10-2. One of the key matches was the 2021 French Open Final, where Novak triumphed 6-7(6), 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4, coming back from two sets down to win his second Roland Garros title.
Djokovic vs Thiem H2H
In matches against Dominic Thiem, he holds a 7-5 lead. A significant victory came in the 2020 Australian Open Final, where the famous Djoker won 6-4, 4-6, 2-6, 6-3, 6-4, securing his eighth Australian Open title after a tough five-set battle.
Djokovic vs. Daniil Medvedev H2H
Novak has a 9-5 record against Daniil Medvedev. A significant match was the 2021 US Open Final, where Medvedev won 6-4, 6-4, 6-4, denying a calendar Grand Slam.
Djokovic vs. Carlos Alcaraz H2H
We recently updated this section, as the new score between them is 5-3 for the Serbian player. Novak made a historic success after winning against Carlos in the Paris Olympics 2024 finals. This gold was the only thing Novak never won before!
If you ask us, he can now freely retire. Chances are low that anyone will achieve the same in the world of tennis. Maybe Alcaras is the one. Time will show.
Djokovic vs. Nick Kyrgios H2H
Against Nick Kyrgios, Nole trails 1-2. Kyrgios won notable matches in 2017 at the Acapulco and Indian Wells tournaments, both in straight sets.
Djokovic vs. Alexander Zverev H2H
The score is 7-4 against Alexander Zverev. A notable match was the 2018 ATP Finals, where Zverev won 6-4, 6-3.
Djokovic vs. Grigor Dimitrov H2H
He has a dominant record against Grigor Dimitrov, leading 10-1. A key match was the 2014 Wimbledon semifinals, where Novak won 6-4, 3-6, 7-6(2), 7-6(7).
Djokovic vs. David Ferrer H2H
He holds another impressive record against David Ferrer, leading 16-5. A notable match was the 2013 Australian Open semifinal, where the Serbian won 6-2, 6-2, 6-1.
Djokovic vs. Gael Monfils H2H
This is the most impressive lead, 17-0 against Gael Monfils. A memorable encounter was the 2016 US Open semifinals, where he won 6-3, 6-2, 3-6, 6-2.
Djokovic vs. Kevin Anderson H2H
The record is 10-2 for the Serbian against Kevin Anderson. A key match was the 2018 Wimbledon Final, where Novak won 6-2, 6-2, 7-6(3), securing his fourth Wimbledon title.
Djokovic vs. Milos Raonic H2H
The lead against Raonic is 12-0 in their head-to-head record. A key match was the 2020 Australian Open quarterfinal, where the Serbian won 6-4, 6-3, 7-6(1).
Djokovic vs. Marin Čilić
Djokovic leads Marin Čilić 18-2 in their head-to-head matches. Their rivalry includes key matches like the 2014 US Open quarterfinals, where Djokovic won 6-2, 6-2, 6-2.
Djokovic vs. Kei Nishikori
Djokovic has an 18-2 record against Kei Nishikori. One notable match was the 2014 US Open semifinal, which Nishikori won in four sets: 6-4, 1-6, 7-6(4), 6-3.
Djokovic vs. Jannik Sinner
Djokovic leads Jannik Sinner 3-0. Notable matches include the 2022 Wimbledon quarterfinals, where he won in five sets after being down two sets: 5-7, 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2.
And we have to stop here as there are many other players that have a negative score against the GOAT. Actually, over 250 players lost more games against him.
Djokovic Negative H2H Score
As we already mentioned, there are so many players with a negative count against Nole.
It is an impressive fact that only 11 players managed to do this.
Djokovic vs Andy Roddick H2H
Record: 5-4
Andy Roddick’s powerful serve and aggressive play secured him five wins, especially early in their encounters. Notable victories include Roddick’s 2008 US Open win, where he outplayed the Serbian with his commanding serve.
Djokovic vs Marat Safin H2H
Record: 2-0
Marat Safin, known for his explosive groundstrokes, defeated him in their only two meetings. His wins at the 2005 Australian Open and 2008 Wimbledon showcased his dominance during those times.
Djokovic vs Jiri Vesely H2H
Record: 2-0
Jiri Vesely’s unexpected wins came at the Monte Carlo Masters in 2016 and Dubai in 2022. His ability to handle high-pressure situations and execute his game plan effectively has made him a tough opponent.
Djokovic vs Nick Kyrgios H2H
Record: 2-1
Nick Kyrgios’ unpredictable style and powerful serve gave him the upper hand in their first two encounters. However, Djokovic turned the tables in the 2022 Wimbledon final, showcasing his experience and mental fortitude.
Djokovic vs Fernando Gonzalez H2H
Record: 2-1
Fernando Gonzalez defeated him twice in the mid-2000s, including a significant win at the 2006 Madrid Open. His aggressive baseline play and powerful forehand were key factors in those victories.
Djokovic vs Ivo Karlovic H2H
Record: 2-1
Ivo Karlovic, with his towering serve, managed to edge out twice, first at the 2008 Madrid Masters and then in Doha in 2015. Karlovic’s ability to dominate with his serve posed significant challenges.
Djokovic vs Dan Evans H2H
Record: 1-0
Dan Evans’ victory at the 2022 Monte Carlo Masters was a surprise to many. Evans’ tactical variety and tenacity on the court allowed him to outmaneuver him on clay.
Djokovic vs Taro Daniel H2H
Record: 1-0
Taro Daniel secured a notable win at the 2018 Indian Wells, leveraging his consistency and strategic play to upset the Serbian star.
Djokovic vs Antony Dupuis H2H
Record: 1-0
Antony Dupuis defeated him in 2006 at a clay tournament in Valencia. This early career loss for Joker came against a seasoned clay-court specialist.
Djokovic vs Dennis Van Scheppingen H2H
Record: 1-0
In 2004, Dennis Van Scheppingen bested a young Novak in Bangkok. This victory highlighted the potential vulnerabilities the GOAT had early in his career.
Djokovic vs Filippo Volandri H2H
Record: 1-0
Filippo Volandri’s win came early in the Serbian’s career, showcasing Volandri’s expertise on clay courts.
Conclusion
Novak Djokovic’s career has been marked by intense rivalries with some of the greatest players in tennis history. His battles against Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, and Andy Murray have defined an era, showcasing the highest levels of competition, skill, and determination.
Despite facing over 300 opponents, Djokovic’s dominance is evident, holding positive head-to-head records against nearly all. The few players who have a winning record against him highlight the rare moments of vulnerability in his otherwise stellar career.