Marin Cilic says what was so ‘different’ about Roger Federer compared to Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal

By | November 8, 2024

Marin Cilic has highlighted the way in which Roger Federer was different from Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic.

The 2014 US Open champion played against each of the tennis’ ‘Big 3’ on multiple occasions throughout his career.

He knows more than most just how difficult a task it was to defeat the legends of the game, irrespective of the tournament or surface.

Having played against the trio as often as he did, Cilic learned a thing or two, one of which he shared during his time at the Belgrade Open.

Marin Cilic, the 2014 US Open champion and a prominent figure in tennis, has had the unique experience of competing against each member of the Big 3—Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic—multiple times. As a player who has faced them in some of the most challenging environments and highest-stakes matches, Cilic has developed a nuanced understanding of what makes each of these legends so formidable and unique. His insights provide a rare glimpse into the strengths and idiosyncrasies of Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic, and how their contrasting styles have shaped the modern era of tennis.

Federer’s Elegance and Unpredictability

Cilic highlighted Roger Federer’s elegance on the court and his remarkable ability to play an unpredictable game. Federer’s style has often been described as effortless, with a fluid motion that makes it seem as though he’s not putting in as much physical effort as other players. However, this is deceptive. Federer’s strategic mind and technical proficiency make him incredibly challenging to beat, as he’s capable of adapting his approach mid-match and making slight adjustments that throw off his opponents.

**1. Federer’s Versatile Game: Federer is known for his versatility, adapting his style to various surfaces and opponents. His one-handed backhand, particularly on grass courts, combined with a powerful serve, made him a nearly unstoppable force. He has an arsenal of shots that few can replicate, enabling him to hit from virtually any angle and keep his opponents guessing.

2. The Mental Challenge of Facing Federer: Cilic, like many players, found Federer’s mental game to be as strong as his physical one. Federer’s calm demeanor masks an intense competitive drive, and he has the ability to maintain focus through challenging moments. This mental strength has allowed him to come back from seemingly impossible situations, making him particularly tough in tight matches.

Nadal’s Relentless Intensity and Physicality

Cilic also spoke about Rafael Nadal’s intensity, describing him as a relentless fighter who never gives up, no matter the score. Known for his physical endurance and powerful topspin-heavy groundstrokes, Nadal has a unique approach to tennis that is deeply rooted in his competitive spirit. His unparalleled success on clay courts is a testament to his ability to play long, grueling rallies and wear down his opponents over time.

1. Nadal’s Physical Dominance: Nadal is renowned for his physical conditioning, which allows him to chase down every ball and engage in long rallies. His stamina and endurance have set a benchmark in the sport, as he is willing to stay on the court for hours if necessary. This physicality, combined with his topspin-heavy forehand, has made him almost unbeatable on clay.

2. The Psychological Impact of Nadal’s Energy: Opponents often speak about the psychological toll of playing against Nadal. His energy on the court is relentless, and he never seems to have a moment of weakness. For players like Cilic, facing Nadal requires not only physical preparation but also a mental resolve to withstand his unbreakable spirit. Nadal’s never-say-die attitude and his constant movement put enormous pressure on his opponents, often leading them to make unforced errors or to try riskier shots to shorten rallies.

Djokovic’s Precision and Consistency

In Cilic’s view, Novak Djokovic stands out for his incredible consistency and precision, qualities that have enabled him to dominate on all surfaces. Djokovic’s game is built on his ability to return virtually every shot with remarkable accuracy, and his return of serve is considered one of the best in the sport. Unlike Federer’s elegance or Nadal’s brute force, Djokovic’s style is rooted in a kind of relentless precision, where he grinds down his opponents with consistently deep, penetrating shots.

1. Djokovic’s Impeccable Return Game: One of Djokovic’s greatest strengths is his return game, which puts immediate pressure on opponents right from their serve. His ability to neutralize serves from even the best players allows him to dictate points, a skill that has made him particularly dangerous on hard courts.

2. Mental Fortitude in Clutch Moments: Djokovic’s mental toughness is often highlighted as one of his defining traits. He has an uncanny ability to perform his best under pressure, frequently saving match points and turning around seemingly lost matches. Cilic, who has been on the other side of the net during Djokovic’s remarkable comebacks, understands how frustrating it can be to face someone who thrives in high-stakes moments.

Comparing the Big 3 Through Cilic’s Lens

For Cilic, each member of the Big 3 presents a distinct set of challenges:

Federer’s Style: Elegance, unpredictability, and a varied shot selection that requires opponents to be highly adaptive.

Nadal’s Approach: Physical endurance and relentless energy, demanding opponents to be not only physically prepared but mentally resilient.

Djokovic’s Precision: Consistency and mental toughness, along with a superior return game that makes him dangerous on any surface.

This analysis of their unique styles not only showcases their individual strengths but also highlights why they’ve remained at the pinnacle of tennis for so long.

Legacy of the Big 3

As Cilic reflects on his career facing these three legends, it’s clear that Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic have each brought something invaluable to the game. Federer’s elegance has inspired a generation of players to focus on technique and finesse; Nadal’s grit has redefined what it means to be a competitor, and Djokovic’s consistency has set a new standard for resilience and mental toughness.

The Big 3’s influence extends beyond their individual matches; they’ve collectively pushed each other to new heights, driving one another to continually improve. For players like Cilic, who’ve had to compete against them, their presence has meant constantly striving for higher standards. Each has a legacy that will undoubtedly shape the sport for years to come, influencing emerging players and changing the way tennis is approached.

Cilic’s experiences with Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic have provided him with valuable insights into the nuances of competing at the highest level. While many players have seen the challenges posed by these legends as insurmountable, Cilic’s perspective underscores the respect and admiration they command from their peers.

In summary, Cilic’s career facing the Big 3 has left him with a profound appreciation for their unique approaches to tennis. Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic each represent a different facet of excellence, and together, they’ve elevated the sport to unprecedented levels. Cilic’s insights serve as a testament to their enduring impact and the indelible mark they’ve left on tennis.