Tennis fans often wonder what will be left behind by the Big Three—Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic—once they retire.
Recently, I had a conversation with a leading tennis agent in Manhattan during the US Open about their enduring impact on the sport.
This talk resurfaced in my mind when, just a few hours apart on Sunday, I came across three images that reflect their diverse legacies.
The first photo was of Federer in a crisp suit, pouring chocolate to mark the opening of a new Lindt store in London’s Piccadilly Circus.
Next was a heartwarming image of Rafael Nadal with Alexandra Eala at her graduation from his tennis academy in Spain.
Finally, a tweet featured a photo of Novak Djokovic on court with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the infamous vaccine skeptic.
These snapshots speak volumes about how these icons are seen today: Federer, the suave and well-dressed ambassador; Nadal, the mentor inspiring the next generation; and Djokovic, who remains a polarizing figure amid controversy and devotion alike.
The Polarizing Legacy of Novak Djokovic
While Federer and Nadal’s legacies seem smooth and relatively free of controversy, Djokovic has sparked strong reactions from both fans and critics.
Djokovic’s choice to align himself with controversial figures, like attending an event with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has certainly caused waves.
Kennedy, known for spreading misinformation about vaccines, is a figure many would rather distance themselves from, especially in the aftermath of the 2019 Samoa measles outbreak that was fueled by anti-vaccine rhetoric.
Despite these controversies, Djokovic’s legacy in tennis is much more complex.
While Federer has focused on building his brand with the Laver Cup and Nadal has built a global empire of tennis academies, Djokovic has invested time into advocating for players’ rights.
The launch of the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) and the ongoing lawsuit against the ATP regarding player compensation and governance reflect his deep dissatisfaction with the current state of tennis.
The PTPA lawsuit could shape the future of the sport. If successful, it may transform how players are compensated and how tennis operates.
However, a loss in court could significantly damage Djokovic’s standing in the sport.
Yet, if he succeeds in his pursuit of player empowerment, his legacy could surpass even Federer’s and Nadal’s in terms of lasting impact on the structure of tennis.
Carlos Alcaraz’s Struggles on the Court
While much attention is given to tennis legends, young stars like Carlos Alcaraz are also under the microscope.
The 21-year-old Spaniard, who rose to prominence after winning the 2022 US Open, has been struggling recently.
Alcaraz’s loss to David Goffin in Miami and his lackluster performance against Jack Draper in Indian Wells raised eyebrows.
Despite a tweak to his service action in the off-season, Alcaraz’s second serve has been less effective on hard courts, particularly when it comes to his kicker serve, which is more suited to clay and grass.
Additionally, he added weight to his racket in hopes of improving his game, but there may still be growing pains with that adjustment.
What stands out most, however, is Alcaraz’s lack of tactical awareness on court.
He’s always been known for his exciting and entertaining playing style, but there was an expectation that, with age, he would develop more strategic insight into when and how to use his wide range of shots. Unfortunately, it seems he may have regressed in this aspect.
Though Alcaraz is still young, it might be time for him to consider making changes, perhaps to his coaching team.
He’s been working with Juan Carlos Ferrero since he was 15, but adding fresh perspectives might help him return to his best form.
Rising Star Alexandra Eala
While Alcaraz may be facing a dip in his career, 19-year-old Alexandra Eala is making a splash at the Miami Open.
Eala, originally from the Philippines, moved to Spain at the age of 13 to train at Rafael Nadal’s academy, where she has been honing her skills ever since.
Though her transition to the senior ranks has been challenging, she is now showing her potential in Miami.
Eala’s victories over Grand Slam champions Jelena Ostapenko and Madison Keys are impressive, and she now faces Iga Swiatek, another Grand Slam champion, in her next match.
With a playing style reminiscent of fellow left-hander Leylah Fernandez but with more natural power, Eala looks set to be a force on the WTA tour in the coming years.
Conclusion
As Djokovic pushes forward with his mission to reform the sport, Alcaraz tries to find his way, and rising stars like Eala make waves, tennis continues to evolve.
The sport’s history is shaped by its legends, but the future belongs to the players who are willing to adapt, innovate, and, in some cases, challenge the system.
The journey is never smooth, but it’s these moments of growth and change that define the true legacy of tennis players.