Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic have joined several other tennis stars in mourning the death of Italian tennis legend Nicola Pietrangeli. The two-time French Open champion, who was the first Italian player to win a Grand Slam singles title, passed away at the age of 92 on Monday, December 1.Over the course of his career, Pietrangeli won 44 singles titles, triumphed at the French Open in singles, men's doubles and mixed doubles, and reached a career-high ranking of World No. 3, which cemented his status as one of the greatest Italian players in history. As such, the news of his passing triggered an outpouring of condolences from the tennis community.Nadal was one of the first players to express his sadness, sending his heartfelt condolences to Nicola Pietrangeli's family. The Spaniard also shared a touching throwback photo of a lighthearted moment he shared with Pietrangeli at the French Open."I have just learned of the sad news of the departure of a great of Italian and world tennis. My deepest condolences to his entire family, his son Filippo, and the entire Italian tennis family. DEP Nicola," he wrote (Translated from Spanish).Novak Djokovic, Lorenzo Musetti and Jasmine Paolini also reacted to the news of Pietrangeli's death with sorrow.Novak Djokovic, Lorenzo Musetti and Jasmine Paolini's Instagram storiesMeanwhile, Fabio Fognini shared a sentimental photo alonside an emotional tribute honoring his late compatriot."Dear Nick, a huge piece of our history is leaving. This photo in Montecarlo is worth everything to me: your example, your irony, your light. You taught everyone what winning really means. Safe travels, legend 🙏🎾," Fognini posted (Translated from Italian). View this post on Instagram Instagram PostNicola Pietrangeli gave his opinion on the best player in the world between Rafael Nadal and Novak DjokovicNovak Djokovic and the Spaniard - Source: GettyNovak Djokovic won his 22nd Major title when he triumphed at the 2023 Australian Open, bringing him level with Rafael Nadal's Grand Slam tally at the time. A month later, Nicola Pietrangeli gave his opinion on the best player in the world between the two while speaking to the press at an event.Although the duo were tied on Slam titles, Pietrangeli expressed his belief that Djokovic was the superior player, while the Spaniard appeared "worn out.""[The best in the world], even if everyone doesn't like him, is Novak Djokovic. Nadal seems a bit worn out to me," Pietrangeli said.Nicola Pietrangeli's assessment of Nadal's condition wasn't far off since the Spaniard was plagued with injuries throughout the 2023 season and ultimately retired from professional tennis at the 2024 Davis Cup Finals. On the other hand, Djokovic has since tied Margaret Court's all-time record of 24 Major titles.