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The last chapter in one of the most fascinating tennis rivalries, between Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, was played out in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday night. Forget the result, as Djokovic won 6-2, 7-6 (7-5) in the Six Kings Slam exhibition, for the tennis was riveting. For all those who have raved about Nadal’s ravishing forehand, it was on view, again. If one thought an exhibition match would only be about pleasantries, this one still produced sparks and tears.
And when Djokovic said in an interview after the match: “Don’t leave tennis, man,” it was straight from the heart. This was not pretence or Djokovic faking it. He has been one of the most honest tennis professionals, and his words were almost like a plea to Nadal not to go away. Why? Would not the Serbian, who holds a 31-29 record against Nadal, be happy that his bitter rival is leaving? No, that is not the way these two competed on the ATP Tour and in Grand Slams.
These were raw emotions, coming straight from the heart, as Djokovic knows that he too will not be there too long. For some belonging to this generation of tennis fans, who may have missed a few contests where the two superstars won a combined total of 46 Grand Slam titles, the farewell exhibition was laced with emotion.
Djokovic was almost in tears when Roger Federer retired in 2022. He has always shown massive respect to opponents who troubled him. “I have the utmost respect for you,” he told Nadal. “Incredible athlete. Incredible person. I’d like to congratulate all your team and family on the amazing career.” These lines were not rehearsed.
For his part, Nadal kept his emotions in check, fully aware this was his last meeting, his last dance, with a rival who has pushed him so hard. Tennis rivalries become even more beautiful when the combatants play with different styles – right hand and left hand. The contests between Nadal and Djokovic were spread across surfaces – hardcourt, clay, grass, and even indoors. Each was a test of skills and supremacy.
The last chapter was not about the result, but how two players who defined grace and elan on court could produce dream moments one last time. “I’m going to miss almost everything,” said Nadal before he was presented a tennis racquet made of gold. “It’s been a dream come true to be able to play for almost 20 years. Having the chance to play in the best places in the world. It’s something I watched on TV as a kid. At the end, I realised my dream to become a pro tennis player and be a successful one. I can’t thank enough the support and love I received all around the world.”
The Spaniard will play the Davis Cup final in Malaga next month, and singles may be out of question, given his dropping fitness levels and injuries. So, for all those who wanted to see the artist play singles one last time, Riyadh was fortunate to be the last destination. Missed it? You can still catch moments on YouTube.
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