WATCH: “That’s a lot of titles in one shot,” Rafael Nadal & Novak Djokovic embrace a hug at Roland Garros
The greatest of rivals have a hearty interaction during practice session in Paris.
Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal shared a hug (Via IMAGO/Instagram)
One of the biggest rivalries in sports, between Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, is on its last leg, with Nadal looking to retire by the end of the season and Djokovic seemingly losing his edge. Fans cherish whatever moments they get to witness, when these legends are on court. The excitement is even higher when it’s the two of them together.
Today, as Rafael Nadal completed his practice in his courtyard, the Philippe Chatrier Court, Novak Djokovic entered as he was scheduled to practice there next. The two were seen sharing an embrace and having a quick chat.
As Djokovic arrived on the court, Nadal walked to him and had a friendly interaction, inviting a huge cheer from the crowd that had gathered to watch them train. The fans went wild seeing the two rivals hug and engage in conversation. Djokovic then greeted the rest of Nadal’s team, which included Carlos Moya, as they exited the court.
Fans react as video surfaces of Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal meeting each other at Philippe Chatrier
As a fan posted the video of Nadal and Djokovic sharing an embrace, others were quick to comment on their opinions and feelings about it.
Some appreciated the mutual respect shown and some made comments about fans on Rafa and Nole, saying the two fanbases fight endlessly while the players themselves remain friendly. A fan also threw some unwarranted shade at Nadal, saying he didn’t seem as genuine as Djokovic did. Here are some of the reactions:
A great deal is being communicated through everyone's body languages.
— Genku (玄空) (@Dogenku) May 25, 2024
Let us hope that Novak will be and remain well. I trust that he will.
If only both fandoms can be as cordial
— Don M???? (@Pimlico888) May 25, 2024
Nobody saw this coming so soon. Wow.
— Lazyqueen (@lazyqueen07) May 25, 2024
And their fan bases fight each other ?
— N o a h (@0RealNoah0) May 25, 2024
Gracious N°1e, the ? & gentlemen vs…. I unfortunately can not c or say the same according to footage & body language
— V-Theena (@VTheena9) May 25, 2024
They discussed the flight itinerary for travelling to US Open..
— sourasubha ghosh (@imsubhag) May 25, 2024
"Let's meet at Semis."
— Suvo Pyne (@PynesH) May 25, 2024
There were also some hilarious comments speculating what the conversation between the two may have been about. Nadal will be facing Alexander Zverev in the first round, whereas Djokovic will be up against Pierre-Hugues Herbert. While Djokovic is expected to breeze past the Frenchman, Nadal will have to grind it out against the German has been in sublime form.
In case you missed it:
- “She definitely motivates me,” Aryna Sabalenka hails Iga Swiatek for improving her game despite their rivalry
- “I don’t think…,” Iga Swiatek talks about her rivalry with Aryna Sabalenka and if it will go in history books
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