Talks of an end to Rafael Nadal's reign proved premature once again as the claycourt king stayed on course for a record-extending men's 22nd Grand Slam title by beating arch-rival Novak Djokovic 6-2 4-6 6-2 7-6(4) in a vintage French Open quarterfinal clash on Tuesday.
A 10-minute opening game, won by Nadal on Djokovic's serve, set the tone of the clash of the heavyweights.
The Serbian fell 3-0 behind in the second, but a poorly-executed drop shot by Nadal allowed him to pull a break back. A smile appeared on Djokovic's face.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Djokovic, Nadal clash for 59th time in French Open blockbusterRafael Nadal has a 19-8 edge on clay and has won seven of the pair's nine meetings in Paris.
Read more »
Djokovic and Nadal clash for 59th time in French Open blockbuster | The CitizenDjokovic leads Nadal 30-28 at all tournaments since their first career meeting at the 2006 French Open.
Read more »
Nadal downs Djokovic in late-night epic to reach 15th French Open semi-final | SportRafael Nadal edged a late-night classic against old rival Novak Djokovic in the early hours of Wednesday in four sets to reach his 15th French Open semi-final. | Sport24news
Read more »
Djokovic v Nadal: All set for another French Open thriller | The CitizenTwo of the biggest names in world tennis are set to meet at Roland Garros in the quarterfinals.
Read more »