French Open 2022: Novak Djokovic to take on Rafael Nadal on Tuesday renewing his epic-16 year rivalry

With a semi-final spot on the line, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal renew their 16-year rivalry at the French Open on Tuesday. The 13-time champion could end his Roland Garros career if he wins.

The 36-year-old Nadal plays the defending champion in Paris on Friday, offering up his record of 109 wins and just three losses since he made his title-winning debut in the year 2005.

In his entire tournament history, Nadal has been taken to five sets for only the third time. This happened in the match against 21-year-old Felix Auger-Aliassime.


After that victory, Nadal told reporters his future on the court might be at stake not only for this year's French Open but for the rest of his career.

The Spaniard, who had been suffering from a chronic foot injury that has plagued him for most of his career, arrived in Paris not knowing if he would be able to compete. Nadal admitted that he was aware of his situation and he accepts it, further adding, that he can’t complain much.

Nadal further added that he was just enjoying the moment and the fact that he is there for one more year. Being very honest, he added that with every match that he plays there, he doesn’t know if it would be his last game at Roland Garros. He has gone through a tough process with his foot and is uncertain about what can happen in the coming future.

Overall, since their first career meeting that took place at the French Open of 2006, Djokovic leads Nadal 30-28.

When it comes to Nadal, he has the edge of a 19-8 on clay. He has won seven of the pair's nine meetings that took place in Paris.

However, Djokovic leads in the semi-finals at Roland Garros in 2021 on his way to second title.