Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal set possible Olympic Games R2 clash!

07/25/2024 06:08 AM

Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic have forged the greatest rivalry in the Open era, meeting 59 times between 2006 and 2022. Two incredible players are just two wins away from embracing their 60th duel at the Olympic Games in Paris! Novak drew Matthew Ebden in the first round, which should be a relaxed day at the office for the 24-time Major champion. On the other hand, Rafa meets Marton Fucsovics in the first round and will have to play well to pass the first obstacle and set the clash against his greatest rival. Nadal and Djokovic met in the semi-final at the Beijing Olympics 16 years ago, with the Spaniard prevailing and remaining on the title course. Interestingly, their first meeting came at Roland Garros 18 years ago, and the milestone 60th could happen on Court Philippe-Chatrier again. Djokovic leads their H2H 30-29, although Nadal scored a win in four of their previous duels, staying close to his great opponent.

Their most recent encounter came at Roland Garros two years ago, with Nadal prevailing 6-2, 4-6, 6-2, 7-6 in the quarter-final. Two tennis titans battled for four hours and 12 minutes on Court Philippe-Chatrier despite two one-sided sets, as Novak pushed Rafa to the limits, looking good to force a decider before the Spaniard took charge and sealed the deal in four sets. Nadal made a reliable start and kept the pressure on the other side, notching his eighth win over Djokovic from their ten Roland Garros duels. The conditions on Court Philippe-Chatrier were cold and slow, and two rivals gave their best to produce quality tennis in another classic. Rafa played better behind the second serve and overpowered Novak in the pivotal moments, eager to avenge last year's defeat. The Spaniard dropped serve four times and grabbed 43% of the return points, turning them into seven breaks from 17 chances.

Nadal attacked and landed 57 winners and 43 unforced errors. He built a massive advantage in the shortest exchanges, playing determined tennis and moving over the top. Rafa made a great start, breaking Novak in games one and five of the opening set and closing it 6-2 after challenging 50 minutes. They battled for almost an hour and a half in the second set, embracing one of the most extended sets of their incredible rivalry. Nadal led 3-0 with a double break before Djokovic stepped in and took charge, dictating the pace with his forehand and forging a comeback. The Serb erased the deficit and closed the set with a break in game ten to level the overall score. Rafa made a fresh start in the third set, delivering a double break and taking it 6-2 for a boost of confidence. Djokovic provided four comfortable holds and forged a 5-2 advantage, looking good to force a decider and extend the marathon. However, he wasted two set points at 5-3 and lost serve after Nadal's forehand crosscourt winner. They served well in the next three games and introduced a tie break. Rafa moved 6-1 in front and wasted three match points. He converted the fourth at 6-4 with a backhand down the line winner, scoring his 29th victory over Novak and moving into the semi-final.