Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic met for the 58th time in the semi-final of Roland Garros. Two great champions made it a memorable one, Djokovic winning with a score of 3-6, 6-3, 7-6, 6-2 in four hours and 11 minutes on the Philippe-Chatrier court for his sixth game for the title in Paris.
After five straight losses to Nadal on the slowest surface, Djokovic was ready to take the extra step and beat the most important rival for the second time in Paris after 2015, confident in his abilities before the clash.
The Serb made eight breaks (Nadal lost serve as many times during the entire Roland Garros season in 2020) and established himself as the most determined player on the pitch with 50 winning strokes and 37 unforced errors. .
Additionally, Djokovic pushed Nadal’s backhand to its limits and tamed his rival’s forehand to forge a massive advantage in mid-distance rallies and bring home victory after an epic battle.
Rafael Nadal against Novak Djokovic:
Rafael Nadal lost to Novak Djokovic at Roland Garros in four sets. Despite a good start and a 5-0 lead in the first game, Nadal lost speed in the crucial moments and lost his chances in the final stages of the second set.
The 13-time winner wasted a set point at 6-5 in the third before losing the tie-break, his seventh in a row against the Top 10 players of the Majors!
Rafa had no chance in the fourth set following a foot injury, losing the serve three times in a row to give the victory to Djokovic. The Spaniard praised the Serbian and his performance, saying Novak has become a deserved winner.
From 5-3 in the third set, Nadal climbed to 5 everywhere and created a set point in the 12th game that could have been crucial. Novak saved it and gained momentum before the tie-break, winning it at 7-4 and never looking back.
“I have to give Novak credit. I won several times here, but I couldn’t today; that’s the reality. I can play better tennis, but there is no apologies.
The conditions were a bit slower and Novak handled them better; that’s why he deserves to win. The crowd was incredible. I was super tired at times, and they gave me the energy to keep fighting.
It is very moving for me to feel the love of people on the most important court of my tennis career, without a doubt. So I really thank them, ”said Rafael Nadal.
