The matches between Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal are some of the most memorable ones in tennis history. After meeting at the 2006 French Open for the first time, they faced each other 59 times in their careers, with Djokovic winning just one match more than the Spaniard by 30-29.
During a recent interaction with Eurosport, Djokovic opened up about the top three matches he played against his fiercest rival.
Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal (Image via Imago)
These three matches are the 2012 Australian Open final, the 2013 Monte Carlo Final, and the 2015 French Open quarterfinals.
There were many, but the one I have to remember the one that I won. In Australian Open finals that went almost six hours in 2012. And of course, the first time I won against him on clay here in Monaco in finals 2013. And the first time I won against him in Roland Garros, actually, as well, I think it was 2014 or 15. So, I picked those three. But you know, I lost way more times against him on clay.Novak Djokovic told Eurosport
Unfortunately for tennis enthusiasts, Djokovic and Nadal have yet to lock horns since 2022. That year, they faced each other at the French Open quarterfinal, where the ‘King of Clay‘ knocked out the Serb in four sets before clinching a record-extending 14th French Open title.
Novak Djokovic wants one more match against Rafael Nadal
Rafael Nadal is currently nursing an injury and has hinted that this year could be the last time he plays professional tennis. He is expected to make his comeback at this year’s French Open.
The 37-year-old made a comeback this season at the Brisbane International in January after missing almost an entire 2023 season due to a hip flexor injury. Amidst talks of his next tournament, he continued to pull his name out, with the latest being the Monte-Carlo Masters, where he is an 11-time winner.
As it’s uncertain when he will get back on court, Novak Djokovic wants Nadal’s return for the sake of tennis. The Serb also expressed his wish to play against the Spaniard at least one more time.
As a tennis fan, I want him to play at least one more tournament before he retires.Novak Djokovic told Eurosport
Djokovic withdrew his name from the recently concluded Miami Open. He will start his Monte-Carlo Masters campaign on Tuesday (April 9).