Of the so-called ‘Big Three,’ only Novak Djokovic remains.
The Serbian star has entered the twilight of his career. However, even at 38 years old, Djokovic is still arguably the third-best ATP player behind Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.
However, his great rivals, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, have already retired, leaving the 38-year-old as the last active ATP Tour great of his generation.
Casper Ruud, who has endeavoured to challenge those three players over the years, discussed his experiences of playing the ‘Big Three’ on his podcast ‘The Sit-Down with Casper and Christian Ruud.’
The Norwegian star, who has reached three Grand Slam finals during his career, also paid his respects to another great: Andy Murray.
Photo by Franco Arland/Getty ImagesCasper Ruud includes Andy Murray in the same conversation as Djokovic, Federer and Nadal
On his podcast, Ruud spoke about playing Nadal, Djokovic and Federer, while noting the importance of including Andy Murray in the same conversation.
Ruud, who was asked about his experience playing Nadal, said: “It’s really fun. You have to pinch your arm every now and then when you watch your idols in a way become your rivals and opponents. It’s really fun. I’m very proud. I got to play all three of them.
“Also, I want to add Andy Murray in there, he was a big part. I was watching him a lot and he was always challenging them to the highest level, even though he didn’t even end up with as many Slams as them or these many things but he was always there.
“Having played all of those four has been like a checklist for me to say I have played the four greatest players I watched growing up, and it’s been really fun.
“I never got to beat Roger or Rafa, but I am proud to say I have beaten Andy and Novak. I have a bad record against Novak, but at least I have one win!
“He [Djokovic] is inching towards the end of his career unfortunately. But that’s how it goes.”
Casper Ruud defeated Andy Murray in their only ATP Tour meeting
In 2021, Casper Ruud played Andy Murray for the first and only time on the ATP Tour.
Ruud and Murray contested a round of 16 match at the San Diego Open, with the Norwegian claiming victory by a score of 7-5 6-4.
Photo by Gary Payne/Getty Images
Ruud, who has struggled to make an impact in 2025 despite winning the Madrid Masters, will look to bounce back at the US Open after losing his opening match at the Cincinnati Open to Arthur Rinderknech.
Murray retired from the sport in 2024 after the Paris Olympics, ending a storied career which included two Wimbledon Men’s Singles titles and two Olympic gold medals.