Novak Djokovic’s withdrawal from the 2024 Paris Masters has marked a significant historical milestone in the world of tennis. For the first time in 21 years, no player from the “BIG 3” – consisting of Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer – has claimed an ATP Masters 1000 title throughout the entire season. This unprecedented event highlights the end of an era dominated by the “BIG 3.”
The Conclusion of 21 Years of Success for the BIG 3
Since 2004, when Roger Federer first secured three Masters titles in a year, the “BIG 3” have set a record that spanned 21 seasons, with at least one of the three players winning an ATP Masters 1000 title each year. This golden era of tennis has seen Djokovic, Nadal, and Federer not only dominate tournaments but also leave an indelible mark on the history of sports worldwide.
The year 2024 witnessed the remarkable rise of young talents like Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and Andrey Rublev, who have officially ended the dominance of the “BIG 3.” Djokovic, who has won an impressive 40 ATP Masters 1000 titles, only achieved a runner-up finish at the Shanghai Masters this season, where he lost to Sinner. Meanwhile, Rafael Nadal, with 36 Masters titles, struggled to maintain form due to ongoing injuries, participating in only two Masters events in Madrid and Rome without significant success. Roger Federer, having retired in 2022, last won a Masters title at the Miami Open in 2019, concluding his career with 28 titles.
Djokovic’s Challenging Season at ATP Masters
Djokovic’s absence from the Paris Masters has left him without an ATP 1000 title for the season, a rare occurrence in his illustrious career, only happening twice before in 2010 and 2017. However, unlike those years, Djokovic competed fairly extensively in 2024 but could not overcome the challenges posed by emerging young opponents. Nonetheless, he still holds the record with 40 ATP Masters 1000 titles, a testament to the greatness of the Serbian player.
A Milestone Marking the End of an Era
The Paris Masters has been a venue of great success for Djokovic, with seven titles, including his victory in 2023. However, his absence from this year’s event officially concludes the 21-year reign of the “BIG 3.” From 2004 to 2024, Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic collectively amassed 104 ATP Masters 1000 titles – with Federer winning 28, Nadal 36, and Djokovic leading with 40.
Djokovic’s withdrawal from the 2024 Paris Masters not only signifies the end of a forgettable season but also marks the conclusion of a legendary era, as the “BIG 3” officially cedes the stage to a new generation of talented young players.
