Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic have been impressive in their respective campaigns at the French Open this week. With the duo safely through to the Round of 16, there is only one round stopping a 59th meeting of the two giants.

The last meeting came at last year’s French Open, where Djokovic prevailed in the semi-finals in Paris. However, things will be different this time around as both players will have different requests for the potential clash.

Rafael Nadal and Djokovic deliver their verdict

While the 13-time champion Nadal prefers the matchup in the day, the World No. 1 Djokovic has admitted to a possible conflict arising in the coming days. Djokovic stated, “All I’ll say is Rafa and I might make totally different requests.” 

Nadal explained his stance saying, “I don’t like to play on clay during the night, because humidity is higher, the ball is slower, and can be very heavy conditions especially when it’s cold. I think that makes a big difference on the way who played tennis on clay during the night and during the day.”

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But with night sessions on the tournament’s main stadium, court Philippe-Chatrier – a new feature for 2022 – one man will be left short-changed.

Tough test in the round of 16 for Djokovic & Nadal

Before the exciting quarter-final clash, the duo will face a stern test in the 4th Round. While Djokovic faces Argentinian Diego Schwartzman in a tricky contest, Nadal will face his toughest opponent so far.

The Spaniard will face former coach and uncle Toni’s new recruit; Felix Auger-Aliassime, who has already broken into the Top 10 rankings will pose a tough test for Nadal.

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Nadal has been impressive in the opening rounds of the tournament, despite returning to action after a two-month absence. He returned to action in Madrid, losing to teen star Carlos Alcaraz. It was followed up with a disappointing loss to Dennis Shapovalov. Djokovic, meanwhile, won his first title of 2022 prevailing over Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final.