Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic will face each other in the small final of the Six Kings Slam on Saturday in Saudi Arabia, for a last clash before the Mallorcan’s retirement.
At the twilight of an immense career about to end, Rafael Nadal savors each moment with all the more intensity as he knows full well that these are the last. The Spanish legend, who will retire from sport next month in Malaga, during the final phase of the Davis Cup, considers the Six Kings Slam as a final preparation for this last stand. The exhibition tournament organized in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, although devoid of the slightest sporting challenge, also offers him the opportunity to cross swords one last time with one of his greatest rivals, the Serbian Novak Djokovic.
Both lost in the middle of the week and will play today in the small final, for a last legendary clash which inevitably awakens memories. “We have met so many times, so it will be nice to play against each other one last time,” said the Mallorcan, who was soundly beaten by Djokovic in the second round of the Paris Olympics this summer. . Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic have faced each other 60 times. The Serbian leads 31-29 in their confrontations, most of which have been played in the semi-finals or finals of the biggest tournaments.
“I’m taking advantage of the fact that I’m playing for one of the last times as a professional. That’s all,” the Mallorcan tried to evade at a press conference. “I’m excited to get back on the court especially, regardless of the opponent. But of course, having Novak opposite, it makes me a little nostalgic,” he admitted however. “We played against each other so much. It will be nice to play against each other once again. In the end, I hope we put on a show and a good match to give the spectators a good level of tennis and entertain them. I I’m going to try to do that and I’m sure he is too. I’m happy to play him one more time.”
“I will be emotionally ready”
Happy but above all focused on what awaits him next month, knowing that he could once again lift the Silver Bowl with Spain and thus close the chapter of his life in the most brilliant way possible. If he feels ready. There’s one month left. I’m going to prepare and try to be in good shape to help the team try to win. If the captain thinks I’m ready, that will be his decision. If I don’t feel ready, I’ll be the first to say, ‘I can’t play singles, let’s see if I can help in another way.’ I will only be on court if my captain feels I am a better choice to win, not because I am retiring.”
In singles or doubles, on the court or on the sidelines to encourage his partners, Rafael Nadal will think first and foremost of his country, even if the heavy emotional context of his own farewell to tennis will not necessarily make it easier for him easy. “There will be emotions during the Davis Cup, of course, because it will be my last tournament and I will represent my country one last time. But I am sure I will be emotionally ready.”
