The French Open 2022 is all set for a blockbuster encounter between Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. The two have had contrasting paths en route to the quarterfinals. While Djokovic has breezed into the last eight with comfortable victories in his earlier matches, Nadal has had to grind hard for his wins. Nonetheless, both the players will be determined to put on a good show in this match.

Last year, the two went on against each other in the last-four stage of the tournament where Djokovic prevailed in a four-set encounter. Nadal will look to avenge last year’s defeat as he steps onto the court. However, their match is scheduled for the night session, much to the Spaniard’s dislike. Subsequently, his coach, Carlos Moya, has reacted in a similar manner to the time of their match.

Carlos Moya on the request of Rafael Nadal going unnoticed

After his third-round victory at French Open 2022, Nadal revealed he didn’t prefer playing in night sessions at Roland Garros. Subsequently, he requested for his matches to be scheduled during the day session. However, the organizers instead scheduled his match against Novak Djokovic during the night session.

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Reacting to this, Moya said, “I wouldn’t say disrespect, but here at Roland-Garros, Rafa has credit. He has won the tournament 13 times, if he has a request, you should listen to him. He is part of the history of Roland-Garros. We know that nobody is bigger than the tournament, nobody is bigger than the Grand Slam, but in the end, it is a question of business and we understand that.” 

Nadal survives scare at French Open 2022

Earlier in the fourth round, Nadal defeated Canada’s Felix Auger-Aliassime in a five-setter thriller. In a match lasting four hours and 21 minutes, Nadal overcame some nervy moments to get the better of Felix Auger-Aliassime. The Canadian will be disappointed to have not crossed the finish line, having come so close to ousting the ‘King of Clay’.

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The match between Nadal and Djokovic is scheduled to take place today. Who will come out on top in this mouth-watering battle? Let us know your views in the comments below.