Novak Djokovic triumphed over Rafael Nadal in a captivating match at the Six Kings Slam exhibition tournament, winning 2-0 in straight sets (6:2, 7:6[5]). This marked the final chapter in their legendary 18-year rivalry, with Djokovic sealing victory in their 60th head-to-head meeting, bringing his tally to 31 wins against Nadal’s 29.
Djokovic made an early statement by breaking Nadal’s serve in the first game and once again in the seventh, comfortably securing the first set. The second set was more competitive, with both players exchanging breaks. Djokovic had a chance to serve for the match after a break in the ninth game but missed a match point, allowing Nadal to break back and force a tiebreak.
Emotional scenes at the net 🥹
A warm embrace at the net between Djokovic and Nadal as Novak defeats the Spaniard 6-2 7-6 🤝#SixKingsSlam pic.twitter.com/cARfLjn03Q
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) October 19, 2024
In the tiebreak, both players held their serves until 4:4, when Djokovic managed a minibreak. Nadal immediately responded, but Djokovic won the final two points after a 5:5 tie, securing victory and concluding their iconic rivalry with a dramatic finish.