Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic “have one thing of their mind not typical of people”, says Magnus Norman.

The 2 titans are tied on 22 Grand Slams every and can seemingly spar once more on the upcoming French Open for the moniker of probably the most profitable males’s tennis participant of all time – at the very least in the meanwhile.

That may be the fourth yr in succession they’ve met on the second main of the tennis yr. However the image is difficult considerably by Nadal’s ongoing restoration from harm, which has seen him out of motion because the Australian Open, the place he retired from his second-round match with Mackenzie McDonald.

Norman, coach of Stan Wawrinka – one other a number of main champion nonetheless competing effectively into his thirties – says it’s the mentality of Djokovic and Nadal that elevate them.

“They’re hungry to be higher on a regular basis, they’ll deal with the strain like no person else.

“I’m very impressed by how they’re doing over all these years. It is exhausting to think about.

“They’ve one thing particular that places them within the high three or 4 of all time.”

Increasing on Nadal’s prospects in 2023 because the clay season comes into view, Norman stated: “It is going to be troublesome [for him to show his usual form], but when he’s wholesome, he’s a champion and I hope he performs effectively.

“You by no means need to rule out Nadal, [Andy] Murray or Djokovic. Nadal has received many Grand Slams.

“It is not going to be straightforward, as a result of the competitors is harder, however he will discover a approach to play effectively and win large tournaments this yr too.”

Norman additionally had his say on the following technology making waves in tennis, amongst them Carlos Alcaraz.

“There’s a change on the high,” the Swede, a former French Open finalist, stated. “Roger [Federer] retired, Novak is on high, however Rafa goes down from the appears to be like of it proper now.

“There’s a complete new technology knocking on the door, led by Alcaraz, who has already received a Slam.

“Zverev is coming again, Tsitsipas, Kyrgios, Felix [Auger-Aliassime] is taking part in very effectively, [Jannik] Sinner in fact.

“I do count on a brand new Grand Slam champion in 2023.”

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