Djokovic and Nadal - Intensive training before the last Masters
Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic had a joint training session ahead of the ATP Masters 1000 tournament in Paris-Bercy. The first in a long time.
by tennisnet.com
last edit: Oct 30, 2019, 10:10 am
Novak Djokovic has just a good deal of Rafael Nadal in his life. Conversely, the same naturally applies. A few days ago, they were both celebrating at a showcase in Kazakhstan, now it was a joint practice session ahead of the ATP Masters 1000 tournament in Paris-Bercy. For the first time in years, as Djokovic explained afterwards to the ATP website.
It goes without saying that these two legends are also in the training to the full, of course. The circumstances were very special. "It was very unusual," said Djokovic. "It was funny, because seeing Rafa across the net usually means I'm playing against him in the semifinals or finals of a big tournament. But this time it was a training session. But nevertheless the intensity was like in a match. "
Nadal and Djokovic open on Wednesday
Rafael Nadal did not want to attach too much importance to the session. "I'm happy to train with Novak, so I have no problems," added the Spaniard. That's sport. Looking at a common training as something abnormal would not be right. I think that's what my main rivals think. And that's why it feels so natural, not funny. "
The two superstars will join the last ATP Masters 1000 tournament of the year on Wednesday. Rafael Nadal gets to start with Adrian Mannarino, Novak Djokovic with Corentin Moutet. The local hero extended the good run of the French in Paris-Bercy, beating Dusan Lajovic in three sets.