The “Big Four” of tennis—Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray—have dominated men’s tennis for nearly two decades. Their individual rivalries have produced some of the most thrilling and unforgettable matches in tennis history, often on the sport’s biggest stages. Each rivalry within this exclusive group has its own flavor, with contrasting playing styles, immense skill, and mental toughness leading to epic battles. With the recent retirement announcements from Andy Murray and Rafael Nadal following two years after Roger Federer’s at Laver Cup in 2022, it means it means we will never again witness one of these epic matches on the main tour ever again.
Below are some of the most legendary matches from each rivalry, showcasing the brilliance and intensity that has defined this era.
Federer vs. Nadal
The Federer-Nadal rivalry is arguably the most iconic in tennis history, pitting the elegance and precision of Federer against the power and tenacity of Nadal. Their contrasting styles—Federer’s fluid, attacking game and Nadal’s heavy topspin and relentless defense—have produced some of the sport’s most memorable moments.
1. 2008 Wimbledon Final: Nadal def. Federer 6-4, 6-4, 6-7, 6-7, 9-7
Widely regarded as one of the greatest matches ever played, the 2008 Wimbledon final was an epic showdown between the five-time defending champion Federer and Nadal, who was emerging as a threat on grass. After winning the first two sets, Nadal saw Federer come storming back, taking the next two in dramatic tiebreakers. In fading daylight and after nearly five hours of play, Nadal finally triumphed 9-7 in the fifth set, claiming his first Wimbledon title and cementing his place as an all-surface champion. This match symbolized the peak of their rivalry and is remembered for its high level of play, intensity, and the emotional swings both players endured.
2. 2017 Australian Open Final: Federer def. Nadal 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 3-6, 6-3
After years of injuries and doubts about their longevity, Federer and Nadal rolled back the years to meet in the 2017 Australian Open final. This match was a spectacular contest of skill and willpower, with both players returning to their best after long layoffs. Federer’s aggressive playstyle, punctuated by an improved backhand, allowed him to overpower Nadal in the final set, coming from a break down to win his 18th Grand Slam title. The match reignited the Federer-Nadal rivalry and reminded fans that the two legends could still deliver thrilling encounters deep into their careers.
Djokovic vs. Nadal
The Djokovic-Nadal rivalry is known for its sheer physicality and intensity, often producing marathon matches. Djokovic’s consistency from the baseline and Nadal’s ferocious topspin have led to some of the longest and most grueling battles in tennis history.
1. 2012 Australian Open Final: Djokovic def. Nadal 5-7, 6-4, 6-2, 6-7, 7-5
The 2012 Australian Open final is remembered as the longest Grand Slam final in history, lasting five hours and 53 minutes. Djokovic and Nadal pushed each other to the brink of exhaustion in a match that featured incredible rallies, mental fortitude, and stunning shot-making. Djokovic ultimately prevailed in the fifth set, cementing his position as the world’s No. 1 player and proving his ability to outlast even the most physically imposing players. Both players were so drained by the end that they needed chairs during the post-match ceremony. This match exemplifies the extreme resilience and intensity that defines their rivalry.
2. 2013 French Open Semifinal: Nadal def. Djokovic 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7, 9-7
Nadal’s dominance at Roland Garros is legendary, but Djokovic came perilously close to toppling him in this dramatic 2013 semifinal. The match swung back and forth, with Djokovic taking the fourth set in a tiebreak to force a deciding fifth set. In a breathtaking conclusion, Nadal saved a break point at 4-4 in the final set and ultimately broke Djokovic to win 9-7, maintaining his incredible record at the French Open. This match is often cited as one of the best clay court battles ever, showcasing the incredible physical and mental endurance of both players.
Federer vs. Djokovic
Federer and Djokovic’s rivalry has produced some of the most tactically intriguing matches, with Federer’s attacking game pitted against Djokovic’s incredible defense and return. The two have faced each other in numerous Grand Slam finals, often in gripping, high-stakes encounters.
1. 2019 Wimbledon Final: Djokovic def. Federer 7-6, 1-6, 7-6, 4-6, 13-12
The 2019 Wimbledon final will go down as one of the most heartbreaking moments for Federer and one of the most astonishing comebacks by Djokovic. Federer had two match points on his serve at 8-7 in the fifth set, but Djokovic saved both and eventually won the match in a historic tiebreaker at 12-12—the first time a final-set tiebreak had been played at Wimbledon. Lasting four hours and 57 minutes, it became the longest Wimbledon final in history. Djokovic’s resilience and ability to withstand Federer’s attacking game in crucial moments exemplified his mental toughness and ability to perform in high-pressure situations.
2. 2011 US Open Semifinal: Djokovic def. Federer 6-7, 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 7-5
In this thrilling five-setter, Djokovic came back from two sets down and saved two match points on Federer’s serve in the fifth set, hitting a jaw-dropping forehand return winner on the first of those match points. His aggressive play and refusal to give in marked a turning point in the rivalry, with Djokovic going on to win the match and eventually the tournament. This match was one of the key moments that solidified Djokovic’s rise to dominance and his reputation for coming through in clutch moments.
Nadal vs. Murray
While Nadal has largely dominated the Nadal-Murray rivalry, their matches have often been fiercely competitive, particularly on hard courts. Murray’s exceptional defense and strategic play made him a tough opponent for Nadal, especially on faster surfaces.
1. 2016 Madrid Open Semifinal: Murray def. Nadal 7-5, 6-4
In the heart of Nadal’s clay-court kingdom, Murray produced one of his best-ever performances on clay to defeat the Spaniard in straight sets. The 2016 Madrid Open semifinal was a huge confidence booster for Murray, showcasing his ability to compete with Nadal on his preferred surface. Murray’s defensive skills and tactical brilliance frustrated Nadal, allowing him to become one of the few players to topple the King of Clay in his home country. Murray’s victory was significant in solidifying his status as a threat on all surfaces, even against one of the greatest clay-court players ever.
2. 2010 Australian Open Quarterfinal: Murray def. Nadal 6-3, 7-6, 3-0 (ret.)
One of the key turning points in the rivalry came at the 2010 Australian Open, where Murray faced Nadal in the quarterfinals. Murray was in sublime form, using his variety of shots and exceptional defense to outplay Nadal for two sets. Unfortunately, Nadal was forced to retire in the third set due to a knee injury, but Murray’s dominant performance up until that point showed his growing maturity and confidence against the best in the world. This match was a major step forward for Murray as he reached his second Australian Open final and signaled that he was closing the gap on the Big Three.
Murray vs. Djokovic
Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic have one of the most intense rivalries, marked by their mental and physical endurance. While Djokovic often came out on top in their meetings, Murray’s victories over Djokovic have been some of the most significant in his career.
1. 2012 US Open Final: Murray def. Djokovic 7-6, 7-5, 2-6, 3-6, 6-2
Murray’s first Grand Slam title came in a thrilling five-set victory over Djokovic at the 2012 US Open. The match was an emotional rollercoaster, with Murray taking the first two sets before Djokovic came storming back to level the match. Murray, however, found his second wind in the final set, pulling away to claim his long-awaited first Grand Slam trophy. This victory was a breakthrough moment for Murray and established him as a member of the sport’s elite.
2. 2016 Wimbledon Final: Murray def. Djokovic 6-4, 7-6, 7-6
In 2016, Murray and Djokovic met in a critical Wimbledon final, with Murray seeking his second title at the All England Club. In a closely contested match, Murray’s superior serving and groundstrokes proved to be the difference as he won in straight sets. This match was particularly significant for Murray as it cemented his status as a two-time Wimbledon champion and was a rare victory over Djokovic in a Grand Slam final.
Federer vs. Murray
Although Federer and Murray’s rivalry is less intense compared to others, it has still produced several high-quality and important matches. Federer’s dominance over Murray in major finals has been one of the defining features of their head-to-head encounters.
1. 2012 Wimbledon Final: Federer def. Murray 4-6, 7-5, 6-3, 6-4
This match was a turning point for both players. Federer claimed his record 17th Grand Slam title, while Murray, despite the loss, earned respect and adulation for his emotional performance. The match was closely fought, with Murray taking the first set and pushing Federer hard in the second. However, Federer’s experience and poise in big moments helped him turn the match around. The victory also marked Federer’s return to the world No. 1 ranking.
2. 2012 Olympic Gold Medal Match: Murray def. Federer 6-2, 6-1, 6-4
Just weeks after their Wimbledon clash, Murray and Federer faced off at the same venue for the 2012 London Olympics gold medal match. In a stunning reversal, Murray dominated Federer in straight sets, avenging his Wimbledon loss and winning the gold medal for Great Britain. This victory was monumental for Murray, giving him the confidence to break through at Grand Slam events shortly after.
The rivalries among the Big Four have produced some of the most extraordinary matches in tennis history. These battles are not just defined by technical brilliance but also by the sheer will and resilience that each player demonstrates in the biggest moments. Whether it’s the grace of Federer, the ferocity of Nadal, the mental strength of Djokovic, or the grit of Murray, the matches between these legends will be remembered as some of the most epic and defining moments in the sport.
