Rafael Nadal reveal why dismisses suggestions Olympic match with Novak Djokovic will be tennis duo’s ‘last dance’

Spanish tennis star Rafael Nadal celebrated his 38th birthday last month.

The 22-time Grand Slam singles winner has had some injury setbacks in recent years, which fueled the belief he would soon step away from the sport he has dominated for so long.

But Nadal did his best to dispel any notion the 2024 Paris Olympics would mark the final chapter of his storied career.

Shortly after the opening round of men’s doubles matches at Roland Garros, where he has won the French Open 14 times, Nadal hinted his longtime rivalry with Novak Djokovic is nowhere near its ending.

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Rafael Nadal plays a backhand
Rafael Nadal of Team Spain plays a backhand during a training session ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at Roland Garros July 24, 2024, in Paris. (Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

“Who say that’s last dance?” Nadal quipped when asked if he was prepared for a possible “last dance” with Djokovic in singles competition during the Summer Games.

Nadal is scheduled to face Hungary’s Marton Fucsovics in the opening round of men’s singles Sunday. The Spaniard previously seemed uncertain if he would compete against Fucsovics, saying, “I don’t know if I’m going to play or not,” according to The Associated Press.

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Nadal noted that he wanted to discuss his plans for Sunday’s competition after he finished playing on Saturday “and then make the smartest decision possible to have the best chances to bring [a] medal back home.”

Rafael Nadal of Spain carries the Olympic torch
Rafael Nadal of Spain carries the Olympic torch during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics July 26, 2024. (Stephanie Lecocq/Pool/AFP via Getty Images)

If Nadal defeats Fucsovics, he would earn a spot in the second round, which is where he would likely face Djokovic.

The Serbian and all-time major singles title record holder expressed excitement about the opportunity to compete against Nadal — especially if it would indeed be for a final time.