Novak Djokovic shares most memorable clashes with Rafael Nadal with clay at the forefront
ATPMonday, 08 April 2024 at 18:45
As their final knockings of their career begin, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal will spend most of their time reflecting on the past and for the former, he looks back on fondness when asked for the three most memorable matches against him.
All wins of course, but ahead of the Monte-Carlo Masters, most have taken place on clay. Speaking to Alizé Lim for Eurosport in Monaco, he said that the first wins over him on clay and at Roland Garros stick out as well as an Australian Open epic.
But often many of the top moments get lost in the annuls of time and for Djokovic, he sees it more of a reflection tool when he leaves the sport than when he currently is in it.
"The one that I have to remember, the one I won in Australian Open finals that went almost six hours in 2012. Of course the first time I won against him on clay in Monaco in the finals 2013. The first time I won against him in Roland Garros in 2014 or 2015," he said to Eurosport.
"I picked those three but I've lost way more times against him on clay. But we played almost 50 times. I mean it's amazing. The rivalry we had and played the most matches against each other. I've been very proud of that rivalry. I think we can probably appreciate it and reflect on it more once we leave the racquet aside then we can drink a mojito on the beach and really remember moments together."
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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