Rafael Nadal to Face Novak Djokovic in Rome Final

Joaquin Heredia, Sports, The Pawprint

Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic have had some of the most blockbuster finals in tennis history, as they have played each other a total of 56 times, their first meeting being all the way back in 2006. It’s no coincidence the two are the World Number 1 and 2 players on tour respectively, as both players find ways to outsmart, wear down, and ultimately, win against their opponents.

The tournament in Rome this year was particularly tough for Djokoivc, as rain delays forced the Serbian to play the quarter and semi finals on the same day. Both of Djokovic’s matches went to 3 sets, meaning Novak spent more than 6 hours on court yesterday. Because of this, Rafa obviously holds the advantage. However Nadal’s road to the final was no cake walk, for he faced Dennis Shapovalov, and had to defend multiple match points to win it all in 3 hours. Then he defeated Madrid Champion, Alexander Zverev, in straight sets, and finally sent American, Reily Opelka, home in straight sets as well.

Fair or not fair, both players will undoubtedly be at their best tonight, but only one will be crowned Rome Champion.