WATCH: Best of Rafael Nadal - Novak Djokovic rivalry as legends set to clash in second round of Paris Olympics 2024

Finally, the much-awaited battle between two of the greatest players of all time, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, is set to take shape at the 2024 Paris Olympics. As another chapter of the Nadal vs Djokovic rivalry is set to unfold on the Roland Garros stage on Monday (July 29), speculation is rife that this could be the last time they go head-to-head.

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. Spaniard Nadal is currently 38 and the Serbian Djokovic is 37, and the two are likely to meet for the one last time.

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Over the years, the two have shared intense rivalry on different occasions. Djokovic has a slight lead (30-29) in their head-to-head record, but Rafa has the upper hand (20-8) on clay. As the two giants prepare for their 60th meeting overall, let's take a look at some of their intense past rivalries.  

Here's the best of Rafael Nadal - Novak Djokovic rivalry 

Defying the laws of science 🧬



Special things happen when @RafaelNadal meets @DjokerNole! pic.twitter.com/fBYjicHJlj

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) July 28, 2024

Nadal is always my biggest rival: Djokovic ahead of R2 clash 

Nadal defeated Hungary's Marton Fucsovics 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 in his opening round. The 22-time Grand Slam champion was unsure of his participation until hours before the singles event due to injury concerns. However, he decided to compete and set the stage for a dream competition.

Meanwhile, Djokovic advanced to the second round after thrashing Australia’s Matthew Ebden in straight sets. In an interview with Tennis TV, the 24-time Grand Slam winner said that Nadal is always his “biggest rival”.  

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"As long as Nadal is playing, as long as I'm playing, Nadal is always my biggest rival, regardless of the rankings or what's going on the tour just because of the history of our rivalry," the Serbian said.

Nadal, who has won two Olympic golds, was also excited about the upcoming match. "Of course, it's beautiful to play against one of the two biggest rivals that I had in my career, especially on this court," he said.