Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have it all to prove again, says former world number one

Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer

Novak Djokovic’s imperious return to dominance means that Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer have to prove they can compete with him in 2019, says Gustavo Kuerten. 

Djokovic started the campaign in poor form after injury, with Nadal and Federer taking advantage to win a Grand Slam a piece.

However, since the Serbian rediscovered his best, he has won both Grand Slams as well as two Masters events.

“Without any doubt, Djokovic is the one [to beat],” said Kuerten.

“He was under a cloud, with all the difficulties you have to get to a very high level [after injury].

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“But he returned, and he is the most prepared guy to triumph.

“I believe we ended the year with a guarantee, that in the next three or four years, the big protagonist will be him (Djokovic), and Rafa and Roger need to find solutions one more time.

“They are the best [placed to challenge], but Djokovic is still able to make it.

“Djokovic now has more room to achieve a complete year.”

“I do not know serious Rafa’s injury is, but he definitely is very willing to fight for the number one.”


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