Berdych sees end of ‘big four’ era

DOHA: The dominating ‘big four’ era of Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal and Andy Murray could be coming to an end, former Wimbledon finalist Tomas Berdych said Sunday.

Speaking ahead of his appearance in the year-opening tournament, the Qatar Open which starts on New Year’s Day, the world number 19 said men’s tennis was set for a “very interesting year”.

Since 2010 28 of 32 Grand Slam titles were won by the quartet.Asked if the ‘big four era was over, the Czech Republic star responded: “ It’s hard to say right now. But yes, I think it’s very possible. “I’m not saying that it’s over, but I think it’s the nature of the process of the time and of the sport.”

He added that he expected other players emerging through the year to “be definitely competitive to get a chance to win a Slam”.The 32-year-old was speaking after the late withdrawal from the tournament of defending champion Djokovic, who has an elbow injury.

Combined with the continued injury concerns of Nadal, still recuperating from a knee problem, Murray recovering from a hip issue, as well as Federer turning 37 in 2018, the door seems open for new stars to stake their claim next year.