Roger Federer, the maestro of the court, has always been known for his strategic brilliance. In a 2015 interview, he delved into his approach when facing his two biggest adversaries: Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic.

Federer emphasized that his overall game development remained his primary focus. He explained, “I need to work on my overall game that is going to have an impact against most of the players.” This philosophy ensures his skills remain sharp and adaptable against any opponent.

However, he acknowledged Rafael Nadal’s unique playing style. “Rafa is the unique player in the field,” Federer stated. This suggests a more intricate approach for Nadal. He might have “worked more precisely” towards Nadal, implying a deeper analysis and tailored strategies specifically for the Spaniard’s powerful baseline game.

The contrast becomes evident when discussing Novak Djokovic. Federer described his approach to Djokovic as “more straightforward.” The implication is that Djokovic’s style, while formidable, may require a more direct and well-executed version of Federer’s own aggressive baseline play. Here, success hinges on Federer’s own top performance rather than exploiting specific weaknesses in Djokovic’s game.

In essence, Federer portrays his rivalry with Nadal as a complex chess match, requiring specific strategies. Djokovic, on the other hand, is a formidable opponent who demands a high level of execution from Federer himself. This distinction highlights the adaptability and strategic depth Federer brings to each matchup, solidifying his position as a true tennis legend.