Djokovic relieved after overcoming Nadal at the Olympic Games: “You can't give Nadal any chances”
ATP
Novak
Djokovic admitted feeling relieved after overcoming the second round of the
Olympic Games against Rafael Nadal with a convincing 6-1, 6-4 victory. It was a
particularly tough draw for the Serb, who had to face the 14-time Roland Garros
champion in just the second round of the tournament.
The world
No. 2 started strong, comfortably winning the first set after securing two
consecutive breaks, leading 5-0. Although Nadal managed to hold his serve once,
Djokovic closed the set 6-1.
In the
second set, Nole was once again impeccable with his returns. He gained two
early breaks, taking a 4-0 lead. Nadal rallied to win four consecutive games
and level the set at 4-4. However, it was not enough against Nole, who secured
another break and finally sealed his victory 6-1, 6-4 after one hour and 44
minutes.
After the
match against his eternal rival, Djokovic confessed to Eurosport his relief at
overcoming the challenge posed by Nadal, especially after the Spaniard's small
comeback in the second set. For the Serb, maintaining his concentration was
crucial to staying focused on the match, particularly given the Philippe
Chatrier court setting, with much of the support for Nadal.
"I'm
very relieved because everything seemed to be going my way at 6-1 and 4-0,
maybe I felt too comfortable at that moment. At 4-1 I played a regular serve.
You can't give Nadal any chances because he'll take them, he'll get back into
the match, especially on this court with the crowd involved," the world
No. 2 said.
"It
was very tough, the crucial game at 4-4, the last game with used balls and
trying to break his serve and then serve with new balls. I did well on my last
two serves, but it was a very, very close match, especially in the second set.
I'm very happy with the level at which I played," he added.
In the
third round of the tournament, Nole still awaits his opponent, who will be
decided between Dominik Koepfer or Matteo Arnaldi. For now, Djokovic continues
his pursuit of the gold medal, the only title that remains elusive in his
career.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
claps 0visitors 0
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- I, like writer of this wonderful article, also picked Noskova to win this entire thing. I would love it if she and Andreeva are in the final.Rapunzel12-11-2026
- "Priorities", Saba... spend less time in front of cameras, anti-Social Media, selfies and back to Tennis.
mandoist12-11-2026 - Tell this to Andreeva!mandoist12-11-2026
- Andreeva with 11 games in a row to add to Saba's downward spiral issue !!! Personal feelings aside... Jess Pegula may want to reassess her evaluation of Mirra's abilities.mandoist12-11-2026
- I predicted whenthe list was finalised that Linda Noskova would win the WTA Finals and her matches against Gauff and Kostyuk prove that. She is the best (underrated) player in the world!Rapunzel11-11-2026
- Either Lena has a chronic internal ailment (i.e., colitis, enteritis, Crohn's, or some type of lower abdomen issue) -- or she is once again dealing with 'Vukovitis'. Mental stress can indeed cause lower body pains. No matter... whatever is truly going on sucks. "Virus" excuse is getting a bit old -- and often -- at this point.mandoist09-11-2026
- Ironically, Martina became a U.S. Citizen about the same time as the Orange Convicted Felon & Abuser was just beginning on his road to losing all Daddy's Millions!!mandoist09-11-2026
- "Another fresh start is in the cards." Thanks for the Humor!! I'm guessing this is the minimum one can do to keep all your sponsors hanging-on in perpetuity?mandoist09-11-2026
- Vukov is doing this to Lena... AGAIN!!!!! WTA's autonomous collective should be dismantled for allowing Vukov to re-emerge from his hand-slapping suspension. Just ask WTA employees how that's been going lately as they witness his continued verbal abuses. Women's Pro Tennis should start over.mandoist08-11-2026
- Can't help but suspect Vukov is back to his old self again. Thank you, WTA. Perhaps you can give them a "Battling Couple of the Year Award 2026" ??mandoist08-11-2026
