During that time they collected a combined 66 Grand Slam titles and in the process raised the standard to heights it had not previously reached.

Now with Roger Federer retired and Nadal soon to be a former player, only Djokovic remains from an era beloved by tennis fans all over the world, including Guardiola.

What did Pep Guardiola say about Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic?

Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic have been praised by many for what they pushed each other to achieve throughout their outstanding careers.

But a prominent figure outside of tennis has also expressed his admiration for the ‘Big 3’, as Guardiola told Sky Sports’ new One on One series and podcast.

The manager of Manchester City, who has won a plethora of trophies in his career, stressed how important their drive and will to work hard is towards their success.

“The one detail that defines them is how hard they work. People believe that when you are on top of any sport it’s because of the talent, the skills,” the Spaniard said. “But what defines [those at the top] is that they work harder than everyone else. They prepare better than everyone else. 

“They are never satisfied in how they accept the bad moments, the defeats, which are normal in life and in sport. During the games when they are nervous or playing badly, they come back immediately.

“I think they come back because they work harder, they accept that the situation is going wrong in certain moments, but they know they work harder than the others. Mentally they are incredibly positive.”

What did Pep Guardiola say about Rafael Nadal’s retirement?

Nadal shocked the world when he posted a video to his social media accounts announcing he will be hanging up his racket.

As the injuries issues contour to pile up, 22-time Grand Slam winner Nadal decided it was time to bid farewell.

Guardiola, who said he was to see his compatriot retire, added: “I think it happened because he saw that he cannot be or compete in the level that he had been for two decades, but I admire all of them, all three.

“I admire all of them, so for me they are three geniuses. I tried to learn a lot from their body language, how they behave in the bad moments, how strong they are mentally, and of course the talent and skill.

“I think all three will be missed – but still Novak Djokovic can enjoy it – but the three will be missed.”

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