Cilic confesses the big difference between the era of the Big 3 and the current generation

Carlos Navarro | 13 Feb 2026 | 17.21

Great reflection by Cilic when comparing generations. Source: Getty

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Marin Cilic is, without a doubt, one of the most authoritative voices on the circuit when it comes to giving his opinion on comparisons between eras. The Croatian, a seasoned veteran and the latest name to join the select club of players with over 600 wins on the circuit, is experiencing a new lease of life in the last two seasons, free from the injuries that plagued what seemed to be his final moments on the circuit. He luxuriates in opining on any subject with the tranquility and conviction of someone who knows he has already left his mark on this sport.

In the midst of ATP Dallas 2026, where he already reaches the quarterfinals, the player from Medjugorje was asked about a recurring debate that has gained prominence in recent weeks. The words of Patrick Mouratoglou, along with the subsequent responses from figures like Rafael Nadal or Boris Becker, have sparked controversy on social media during hectic days where everyone has taken the liberty to defend two "contenders", as if they were in conflict when in fact they represent two historical periods in this sport. Big 3 era or current era? Are Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz truly better than Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal were in their time?

Voices as qualified as Marin's bring depth and insight to the debate, much appreciated. The Croat experienced the best versions of those three giants, also having to defeat one of them (Roger Federer) on his way to his only Grand Slam title. He faced many duels against one of these giants in numerous Masters 1000 tournaments that were also dominated by them. He has also had the chance to compete against Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, assessing their ball speed, in addition to facing many of the names in the current top 20... and in that consistency and depth of the circuit, according to him, lies the major difference.

Marin Cilic explains what has changed between the current era and the time of the Big Three

Cilic didn't mince words in explaining that the level, according to him, is quite similar between eras... but the gateway to titles, mainly due to the lack of consistency in the current second tier, is different. "If we compare level to level, I don't think there are many differences. Ten, twelve, or fourteen years ago, we had ultra-consistent players, capable of playing at a very high level week after week.

There were players like Tomas Berdych, David Ferrer, Tsonga... these players performed very well every week. Today, I believe the guys have the level, compete incredibly well, and play stunning tennis, but that group of players from #5 to #20 in the world can work on consistency to show that level every week. I would say that is the main difference, emphasized the Balkan player.

Marin also commented on Tennis Channel about how motivating it could be to see a contemporary like Novak Djokovic, a generational peer, still competing to conquer Grand Slams. "It's total inspiration. You can see how committed he continues to be to this sport, after reaching the semifinals of all four Slams, enduring tough losses to Carlos and Jannik... and he keeps believing, keeps refining his tennis. In this Australia, he played more aggressively and reaped the benefits by reaching the final. It also gives me confidence: he is a year older than me, so maybe I can catch up (smiles), continue to be as consistent as he is. He is very professional and diligent with his diet, mobility, everything related to his body, and that shows every day". Marin's next challenge in the American soil will be against the surprising Brit Jack Pinnington Jones.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Cilic confiesa la gran diferencia entre la era del Big 3 y la generación actual