Djokovic set for ‘biggest challenge’ against Nadal

Sports Desk

Published: May 31, 2022, 10:59 AM

Djokovic set for ‘biggest challenge’ against Nadal

Novak Djokovic says he is ready for the "biggest challenge one can have" at the French Open when he plays 13-time champion Rafael Nadal in a much-anticipated quarter-final on Tuesday.

The pair, who have 41 Grand Slam titles between them, continue their rivalry with a men's record 59th meeting.

The match starts at 19:45 BST in the Court Philippe-Chatrier night session.

"I like the way I've been feeling, the way I'm hitting the ball. I'm ready," said defending champion Djokovic.

Spain's Nadal, who is still finding his best level after recent fitness issues, added: "I haven't played these kind of matches for three months so it is going to be a big challenge for me."

Fifth seed Nadal, 35, has not played Serbia's Djokovic since he lost to the world number one in last year's semi-finals on the Paris clay.

Djokovic, 35, leads 30-28 in the head-to head record after he handed Nadal just his third loss at Roland Garros.

Nadal moved ahead of Djokovic and Switzerland's Roger Federer in terms of Grand Slam men's singles trophies when he won a record 21st title with victory at the Australian Open in January.

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