World No. 1 Novak Djokovic wants a final meeting with the 14-time French Open champion at Roland Garros.
Rafael Nadal's absence from the Monte Carlo Masters puts the 22-time Grand Slam champion's participation in the French Open in doubt, but Novak Djokovic says he is still looking forward to the final chapter in their historic rivalry. Ta.
The 37-year-old Spaniard, who said he would retire after the 2024 season, returned to competition in Brisbane in January after nearly a year out with a hip flexor injury, but has not played in an ATP event since.
“As a tennis fan, I would like him to play at least one more tournament before he retires,” world No. 1 Djokovic told Eurosport in an interview published on Saturday.
“We all know what he has done in his career on clay courts, especially at Roland Garros.
“That's his goal, we all know that and he says so too. For tennis in general and Roland Garros in particular, we hope he can play there. Also nice I hope we have a chance to meet each other.”
Djokovic will begin his quest for a third title in Monte Carlo on Tuesday without coach Goran Ivanisevic in the box after ending his highly successful partnership with the Croat last month.
The Serbian player has been training with former world doubles number one Nenad Zimonjić in recent weeks.
“We have known each other very well for over 20 years. He has always been like an older brother to me, a mentor, a friend, always willing to help me as a person and as a player. “He gave me that,” Djokovic said.
“He was there when I stopped by Goran when I was starting to prepare for the clay courts in Belgrade. I asked you to come here.
“We're trying to make the most of it. He gave me very useful advice on finding the right position when approaching the net, but I don't play doubles matches as much. That’s the thing I’m not the best at because I’m not playing.”