The clock is ticking on Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic’s historic rivalry and a singles meeting at the Paris Olympics on Monday could be the final time the two tennis icons meet.
Nadal, 38, is widely expected to call time on his majestic career at the end of 2024 and is narrowly behind by 30-29 in a totemic head-to-head with Djokovic.
Recently beaten Wimbledon finalist Djokovic, 37, heads into this match as the favourite against his injury-ravaged old-foe, but if Nadal can turn back on the clock anywhere it will be on the famous clay courts of Roland-Garros.
A record 14 of his 22 career Grand Slam titles came at the French Open. Only Djokovic, with 24, can claim a more handsome haul. It truly is a rivalry without compare in sport. Is Paris about to witness the final chapter?
The Sporting News is following Novak Djokovic vs. Rafael Nadal from the 2024 Olympic Games live, providing game-by-game updates and highlights.
Novak Djokovic vs. Rafael Nadal live score
| 1 | 2 | 3 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Novak Djokovic (1) | 3 | ||
| Rafael Nadal* | 0 |
Novak Djokovic vs. Rafael Nadal live updates, highlights from Paris 2024 Olympic Games men’s tennis singles
Novak Djokovic* 1-0 Rafael Nadal
Nadal wins the toss and opts to receive first. As he drags back 40-0 to deuce, it looks like a decent play. Djokovic regroups, nails a forehand at the net and then Nadal goes wide.
2:00 p.m. CET/ 8:00 p.m ET: One last dance? Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal have met 59 times in their history-making careers. One of those was Nadal’s three-set victory in the semifinals of the 2008 Olympic Games. Sixteen years on, will this meeting at the Paris Olympics be their last?
