Rafael Nadal sets up blockbuster clash against Novak Djokovic after first-round win against Marton Fucsovics at Paris Olympics

The Tennis world is all set to witness a much-awaited clash between two of the greatest rivals in the history of the sport - Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. The Spaniard cleared his first-round hurdle at the Paris Olympics on Sunday 28 July, defeating Hungary's Marton Fucsovics 6-1, 4-6, 6-4. 

It was nowhere near Rafa's best, but he was unsure of his participation hours before the match. He entered the tournament with injury concerns but picked up his first doubles win with Carlos Alcaraz on Saturday. The 38-year-old is known for his fighting spirit and it was on full display today on his favourite Roland Garros stage.

Nadal, who advanced to the second round, will face long-time rival Djokovic, who defeated Australia's Matthew Ebden on Saturday. Nadal was 20 and Djokovic was 19 when they first met in 2006. The last time the two played in the Olympics was in Beijing in 2008.  

A final showdown between the iconic pair? 

While both young men are now approaching their 40s, they have earned the status of legends. After 18 years, the iconic fight is being staged once again at the biggest sporting event, and fans could possibly see them play each other for the final time in their career. 

“I can’t take anyone else but Nadal as my biggest rival. As long as Nadal is playing, he’s always my biggest rival,” Djokovic said in a recent interview with Tennis TV.

Meanwhile, Nadal hinted on Saturday that the upcoming clash at the Paris Olympics will not be his last meeting against Djokovic. Speculation rose when the 22-time Grand Slam winner expressed doubts about taking part in the singles following his doubles victory over Argentina's Maximo Gonzalez and Andres Molteni.  

Also Check: WATCH: Dynamic pair Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz's winning moments in doubles opener at Paris Olympics

Djokovic took a narrow 30-29 lead in their head-to-head battle. But Rafa has a 20-8 record against the 24-time Grand Slam champion on clay. The two are expected to clash on Monday or Tuesday as all eyes are on the legendary fight.