Novak Djokovic has now won 23 slams. (Photo by JULIEN DE ROSA / AFP)

Rafael Nadal sends humble message to Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic made history at Roland Garros yesterday, and French Open icon Rafa Nadal was the first man to congratulate him.

by James Freemantle

12-06-2023 10:40

in Tennis

Novak Djokovic has now won 23 slams. (Photo by JULIEN DE ROSA / AFP)

2023 French Open winner Novak Djokovic made history by claiming his 23rd Grand Slam title. Roland Garros legend Rafael Nadal was the first man to congratulate him.

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Nadal gives Novak Djokovic French Open props

Rafa Nadal is no stranger to glorious moments on Court Philippe Chatrier at Ronald Garros. The Spaniard has won 14 French Open titles, 10 more than Djokovic, but the Serbian has now collected 23 Grand Slam crowns overall. His win over Casper Ruud takes him one ahead of Nadal in that all-important metric. Nadal, typically humble, was the first to congratulate Djokovic on this momentous achievement.

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Novak looks ahead to Wimbledon

Nadal is currently injured and was absent from Roland Garros. Indeed, 2023 was the first year since 1998 that featured neither Nadal nor Roger Federer in the French Open draw. Meanwhile, Djokovic will surely be the red-hot favourite for this year’s Wimbledon crown with action at SW19 commencing on July 3rd. He’ll look to defend his crown there, with Kazakh star Elena Rybakina the defending champion in the women’s draw.

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