After losing the AO 2026 final to Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic paid tribute to retired rival Rafael Nadal. Fans on X called it "heartwarming" and "legendary." One wrote, "Respect to Novak & Rafa. Legends forever!" Another noted, "Watching Novak pass the torch to Rafa hits different," while many reflected on the Big 3 era and applauded their enduring legacy.