The rivalry between Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic is one of the most storied in tennis history. Spanning nearly two decades, their encounters have consistently showcased unparalleled skill, resilience, and drama. The pair met 60 times with the Serbian edging their rivalry 31-29. Here, we revisit ten of their most iconic clashes. (You can find links to highlights of these matches by clicking on the scorelines.)
10. 2007 Indian Wells Masters Final
Winner: Rafael Nadal (6-2 7-5)
This early meeting marked the beginning of a rivalry that would transcend the sport. Nadal, then already a Grand Slam champion, outmaneuvered a rising Djokovic with his consistency and footwork. Though this wasn’t their closest battle, it was a pivotal moment that hinted at their future dominance.
9. 2009 Madrid Masters Semifinal
Winner: Rafael Nadal (3-6 7-6(5) 7-6(9))
Widely regarded as one of the greatest three-set matches in history, this epic clash lasted over four hours. Djokovic pushed Nadal to the brink in front of a raucous Spanish crowd, holding three match points in the third set. Nadal’s ability to withstand Djokovic’s relentless baseline assault cemented his reputation as a fighter.
8. 2010 US Open Final
Winner: Rafael Nadal (6-4 5-7 6-4 6-2)
Nadal completed his career Grand Slam by defeating Djokovic in this hard-fought final. Although Djokovic claimed the second set, Nadal’s improved serve and relentless aggression proved decisive. This victory solidified Nadal’s status as one of the all-time greats.
7. 2012 Australian Open Final
Winner: Novak Djokovic (5-7 6-4 6-2 6-7(5) 7-5)
The longest Grand Slam final in history at five hours and 53 minutes, this match epitomized the physical and mental toll of their rivalry. Djokovic’s ability to outlast Nadal in an electrifying fifth set remains one of his career-defining moments. Both players left everything on the court, earning widespread admiration.
6. 2013 French Open Semifinal
Winner: Rafael Nadal (6-4 3-6 6-1 6-7(3) 9-7)
On Nadal’s beloved clay, Djokovic came closer than ever to ending his dominance at Roland Garros. The match was a rollercoaster of momentum, culminating in a dramatic fifth set where Nadal saved a break point at 4-4. A stunning overhead winner sealed one of Nadal’s most memorable victories in Paris.
5. 2013 US Open Final
Winner: Rafael Nadal (6-2 3-6 6-4 6-1)
This final encapsulated Nadal’s resurgence after an injury-plagued 2012 season. Djokovic leveled the match after the second set but couldn’t maintain his intensity as Nadal dictated play with his forehand and court coverage. The victory secured Nadal’s second US Open title and his 13th Grand Slam overall.
4. 2014 French Open Final
Winner: Rafael Nadal (3-6 7-5 6-2 6-4)
Djokovic was once again poised to dethrone Nadal in Paris after claiming the first set. However, Nadal’s superior fitness and tactical adjustments allowed him to claim his ninth French Open title. This victory cemented his legacy as the “King of Clay.”
3. 2018 Wimbledon Semifinal
Winner: Novak Djokovic (6-4 3-6 7-6(9) 3-6 10-8)
Played over two days due to Wimbledon’s late scheduling, this five-set marathon exemplified the razor-thin margins between the two legends. Djokovic edged Nadal in an unforgettable fifth set, using his precision and mental toughness to secure his first Wimbledon final since 2015.
2. 2021 French Open Semifinal
Winner: Novak Djokovic (3-6 6-3 7-6(4) 6-2)
Djokovic achieved what many thought impossible: defeating Nadal in the French Open semifinals. Despite Nadal starting strong, Djokovic’s unrelenting pressure turned the tide. This match is considered one of the greatest performances in Grand Slam history, as Djokovic ended Nadal’s streak of 13 Roland Garros titles.
1. 2022 French Open Quarterfinal
Winner: Rafael Nadal (6-2 4-6 6-2 7-6(4))
In their final clash at Grand Slam level, Nadal reminded the world of his enduring greatness on clay. Facing Djokovic under the lights of Court Philippe-Chatrier, Nadal played inspired tennis, particularly in the fourth-set tiebreak. The victory laid the foundation for his 14th French Open title and extended his Grand Slam tally to 22.
The Nadal-Djokovic rivalry has given tennis fans some of the sport’s most thrilling matches. Each encounter has contributed to their legacies, showcasing contrasting styles and unrelenting determination. As their careers wind down, these matches serve as a testament to the golden era of tennis they helped define.
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
