Who will make history?
Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal have faced each other more than any other players in the Open Era, and they will certainly write a new chapter in their legendary rivalry today in the blockbuster final at Roland Garros with history on the line for both men.
They have met in eight Grand Slam finals, with each great winning four times, but this result will shift the tide in the all-time battle for most major trophies.
World number one Djokovic is seeking an 18th Grand Slam title and a second French Open to become the first man in half a century to win all four Grand Slams twice. Meanwhile, defending champion Nadal is bidding to win a record-extending 13th Roland Garros and 20th major, which would tie the all-time men's record held by Roger Federer. Victory would also give the 34-year-old Spaniard a 100th match win in Paris against just two defeats in 15 years. One of those losses came against 33-year-old Djokovic in the 2015 quarterfinals, the last time the pair clashed on the crushed red brick surface of Court Philippe Chatrier.
But Nadal has a 6-1 advantage at the French Open, including wins in the 2012 and 2014 finals. "This is the house of Rafa," said Djokovic, describing facing him on clay as the sport's "biggest challenge".
The Serb has won 37 matches in 2020 with his one defeat self-inflicted via his infamous default at the US Open. "The only thing I know is to play against Novak, I need to play my best," said Nadal.
UNHAPPY NADAL
Nadal had complained about the cold weather at the rescheduled French Open, which is usually held in May-June, the new balls being used for this edition, and the late finishes. But the unusual conditions have had little impact on his performances since the Spaniard has not dropped a set in his six victories at this year's edition.
NOT DJOKOVIC'S BIGGEST MATCH
Djokovic insisted that he had played far more significant finals and pointed to his first win over Nadal at a Slam at Wimbledon in 2011. "I don't think this is the biggest match that I have ever played in my life," he said.
DREAM FINAL
"For me, it's the dream final," said Eurosport tennis expert and Spain's twice Roland-Garros finalist Alex Corretja.
Chris Evert, the winner of 18 Grand Slams titles, said, "I look at Nadal and see a warrior, fighting for everything, he's going to leave blood on the court." "I look at Djokovic and I see more of a robot but in a good sense. The mental part of his game is a level ahead of everyone else, it's awesome."
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