There is a growing feeling in the tennis world that the ‘Big Three’ era is finally over. Roger Federer has retired, Rafael Nadal’s best days appear to be behind him and Novak Djokovic had a disastrous first half of the 2024 season. Last year, Djokovic was by far the best player in the world, but many argue that the Serbian had it easier compared to his previous seasons due to the weakened competition around him. In response to this, Serena Williams’ former coach, Rick Macci, has an understandable reaction.
In an exclusive interview with “The SportsRush,” Macci switched his coaching hat to a fan, who over the years has cherished the three legends who dominate the sport at the same time. He couldn’t help but pay tribute to each of them.
But if he had to pick a favorite, it would be Djokovic, who he referred to by his own interesting nicknames, such as “The Contortionist” and “Serbian Sniper.”
“(Novak Djokovic is a) bit of both Federer and Nadal. (He is) The rubber band man, contortionist, can improvise, the Serbian sniper.” he said.
Macci believes that the fact that Djokovic is still playing professional tennis after more than 20 years on the ATP tour and is coming up with such incredible numbers is unprecedented.
He is baffled by the critics who believe Djokovic achieved these feats without facing quality opposition. The USPTA Florida Hall of Fame coach also dismissed the argument that Djokovic is lucky because he no longer has to face Federer or a prime Nadal.
“To be consistent at 37 and by the numbers, he’s the GOAT. He’s still playing now. You can’t really criticize the competition he’s getting given that Federer is no longer playing and Nadal is past his prime. Macci continued.
Macci is also a big fan of Roger Federer, whom he considers extremely handsome. The Florida-based coach finds it even more incredible that Federer remains the most beloved player in the sport for his epitome of grace and poetry. Macci even referred to the 20-time Grand Slam champion as a “Swiss Army Knife”.
“Everybody loves him (Federer), poetry in motion, swiss army knife, graceful, never messed his hair and sweated in 3 out of 5 sets but hardly looked (that way). (In) style he is the best, expressed Macci.
While Nadal is trying to make a comeback, Macci, like many around him, believes that the Spaniard’s 112-4 (win-loss) record and 14 French Open title wins will never be broken. When it comes to Rafa’s work ethic, Macci is reminded of his former star pupil, Andy Roddick, but believes Nadal is more successful, being more versatile than the 2003 US Open champion.
“(Nadal is a) grinder. (He has an) I’ll be out there for 5 hours attitude. (We’ll) never see somebody dominate the French Open. 112-4 record, that’s crazy! His game is more physical and his work ethic is second to none.” Macci said. “(Roddick is) kind of like Nadal, but Nadal was more successful because he was more versatile, especially on the court.”
However, the American coach is optimistic; therefore, he did not hesitate to mention Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, the two players expected to take over the big three. Furthermore, these two have arguably eclipsed Djokovic in less than 12 months.
Rick Macci makes a bold prediction for Djokovic’s rivals, Alcaraz and Sinner
Macci is a bigger fan of Alcaraz, who is back in the top 2 of the ATP rankings. The tennis icon believes that even at such a young age, the Spaniard is a role model for fans and upcoming tennis players for his innate ability to smile even when he loses a point.
“Alcaraz is a once in a generation player. He is only 21. He already has 3 Grand Slams in his pocket. Alcaraz can catch up. I have never seen a player like that. He is an artist who can hit any shot from which any place.” said the coach.“He drops a point and he smiles. What a great role model for dealing with pressure.”
Macci later went on to call Alcaraz a “once in a generation player”, even predicting that the Spaniard, along with Sinner, will end up with double-digit Grand Slam title wins just like their predecessors.
With a Grand Slam win each this year, Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner could potentially advance to the final of the 2024 Wimbledon Championships. Sinner would look to justify his world No.1 ranking by showing his versatility on grass, while Alcaraz has 2000 points to defend from his dominant win last year.
But if Djokovic is fit and regains form, everything could change. And with his opponents stronger this year, Djokovic would like to prove pundits like Rick Macci right by showcasing his skill against the new generation.
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