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Xtra Time Web Desk: World No. 2 Novak Djokovic has expressed a desire to face his long-time rival Rafael Nadal in the Round 2 of the tennis tournament at the Paris Olympics 2024. Djokovic, drawn against Australian Matthew Ebden, and Nadal, who will compete against Hungarian Marton Fucsovics, could potentially meet if they both advance past their respective opponents. This match would mark their 60th meeting across all major competitions.

In a recent interview, Djokovic hinted at the excitement such a match would generate, referring to it as a "probable last dance" between the two tennis legends. "If we get to meet, expect some fireworks on the court. Like the good old times. I hope we get to meet because there will probably be one last dance for both of us," Djokovic told Access Hollywood.

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The Serbian player also praised Nadal, acknowledging his dominance on clay and his impressive record at the French Open. "All the respect to Rafa, of course. He’s always the king of clay and what he's done at Roland Garros is unprecedented," Djokovic added.

#NovakDjokovic wants to play #RafaelNadal at 2024 Paris #Olympics pic.twitter.com/EvojvwHieg

— Access Hollywood (@accesshollywood) July 25, 2024

The Djokovic-Nadal rivalry remains one of the most compelling in tennis history. Djokovic currently leads with 30 wins to Nadal’s 29. Their last encounter was at the French Open 2022 quarter-final, where Nadal emerged victorious. Nadal holds a notable 20-8 record over Djokovic on clay courts.

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Nadal, thrilled to be back in Paris, described it as a significant honor to represent his country at such a prestigious event. "It’s my first time here, and it's a great privilege to be part of this wonderful evening," Nadal said. "The Olympic Games are the oldest and most important historical sports event, and representing my country is the greatest honor."

Djokovic, who won gold in singles at the Beijing Olympics in 2008 and a doubles gold with Marc Lopez at Rio de Janeiro in 2016, echoed Nadal’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the Olympics in the world of sports. "We are fortunate in tennis to have many big tournaments, but the Olympic Games have always been the highest priority for me and many other players," Djokovic noted.

As anticipation builds for a potential Djokovic-Nadal showdown, fans are eagerly awaiting what could be a historic and thrilling encounter on the clay courts of Paris.