Novak Djokovic showcased his superiority over longtime rival Rafael Nadal in their Olympic second-round match, advancing in his quest for a coveted gold medal.
The 37-year-old Serbian seemed to be on another level compared to Nadal during most of the one-sided match, winning decisively with scores of 6-1, 6-4 on the clay courts of Roland Garros.
Djokovic raced to a 4-0 lead in the second set, dampening the fervent support for the Spaniard, though 38-year-old Nadal managed to fight back and erase the double break.
However, Djokovic responded, as he has so often, by breaking Nadal’s serve again to lead 5-4, ultimately serving out the match.
“I’m very relieved,” Djokovic commented. “Everything was going my way; I was up 6-1, 4-0, but I had a sloppy service game and gave him some chances.”
Nadal, often hailed as the King of Clay with 14 French Open titles at this venue, couldn’t translate his legacy into a challenge for Djokovic’s elite play.
The two, having claimed 46 Grand Slam singles titles collectively, shared a moment together at the net before Djokovic graciously applauded Nadal off the court.
This encounter marked the 60th clash of their storied rivalry—the most prolific in tennis history.
Since their first match in 2006, Djokovic now leads their head-to-head 31-29.
“I never imagined back in 2006 that we would still be competing against each other nearly 20 years later,” Djokovic remarked.
Having accomplished everything in men’s singles tennis, including 24 Grand Slam titles and victories at every ATP Masters event, Djokovic still yearns for the Olympic gold, which has remained elusive.
He delivered one of his best performances of the season, storming out of the gates and unsettling the 2008 gold medalist Nadal.
Nadal, whose thigh injury was heavily bandaged once again, appeared diminished compared to the player who has secured 22 major titles and struggled to match Djokovic’s standard until a late rally.
On Tuesday, Nadal will return to Roland Garros, where a metallic statue honors his achievements, as he partners with reigning French Open and Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz in the men’s doubles.
What lies ahead is uncertain.
Due to injuries, Nadal has barely played over the last two seasons and hinted at a possible retirement at the conclusion of the 2024 season.
While the former world number one has expressed a desire to continue as long as his body permits, this match could potentially mark his last singles appearance on Court Philippe Chatrier.
Whether Djokovic and Nadal will face each other again remains an open question.
