Tennis legends Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic embraces warm hugs at French Open 2024

Tennis legends Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic enjoyed a quick embrace at the 2024 French Open on Saturday, ahead of their likely semifinal match in the ongoing marquee event. Notably, the two embraced warm hugs as the Serbian started his first practice session at Roland Garros before the title defence. Nadal has taken part in several on-site training sessions since arriving in Paris a few days ago. 

On the other hand, the Spaniard, who has been practising with players like Stan Wawrinka, Holger Rune, and Daniil Medvedev, is optimistic ahead of his Clay Major campaign.

Meanwhile, the 37-year-old legend arrived in Paris on Saturday after playing up to Friday at the Geneva Open. The World No. 1 seed entered Roland Garros without a title this year after suffering a bizarre semifinal loss to Tomas Machac at the ATP 250 event.

The 24-time Grand Slam winner arrived on the grounds right away to begin a practice session. However, Nadal was leaving after his last training session at the same time. Following the same, they gave each other hugs and had some conversation before introducing themselves to each other's teammates.

On the court at Roland Garros, he is not the same Rafa we are facing: Novak Djokovic

Rafael Nadal is set to face Alexander Zverev in the opening round of the French Open, and Novak Djokovic expressed his delight about the match. Notably, the Serbian warned the German, stressing that Nadal is an entirely different beast when it comes to playing at Roland Garros. Meanwhile, Nadal aims to win his fifteenth French Open title and his 22nd Grand Slam overall. On the other hand, Djokovic will be seeking his fourth win at the tournament and his 25th major overall.

"I've seen it. Total spectacle. I'm excited to see that match, it will be a very interesting match. Zverev is in great shape, having won in Rome. On the court at Roland Garros, he is not the same Rafa we are facing. It's Roland Garros, so we'll see what happens," Djokovic said to the press during his time at the Geneva Open.