Rafael Nadal has set up a highly anticipated second-round clash with longtime rival Novak Djokovic at Paris 2024 after winning his opening Olympics singles match.
Spain’s Nadal, 38, had cast doubt on his participation against Hungary’s Marton Fucsovics due to a thigh injury.
However, the 2008 gold medallist overcame Fucsovics with a 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 victory.
Playing at Court Philippe Chatrier, where he holds a record 14 men’s singles titles, Nadal returned less than 24 hours after partnering with Carlos Alcaraz in men’s doubles.
An impressive first set against Fucsovics initially alleviated concerns about his physical condition, although he struggled to maintain that level in the second set.
Despite his heavily strapped thigh, Nadal fought back in the decider, securing victory with his trademark tenacity.
Nadal will now face Djokovic, likely on Tuesday, extending their enduring rivalry to a 60th meeting.
Serbia’s Djokovic, 37, moved to the second round with an easy win over Australia’s Matt Ebden on Saturday.
Nadal and Djokovic are two of the greatest players of all time, with a combined 46 Grand Slam singles titles—24 for Djokovic and 22 for Nadal—and numerous records that may never be broken.
Nadal hinted last year that 2024 might be his final season on tour, although he has since backtracked slightly. His future remains uncertain after a series of injuries over the past two years.
Djokovic, a year younger, continues to compete for the sport’s most prestigious prizes, still chasing the elusive Olympic gold.