Rafael Nadal is looking forward to a duel with long-time rivals

“Playing against Novak now is a nostalgic affair,” said Nadal after his semi-final defeat against his Spanish compatriot Carlos Alcaraz at the controversial “Six Kings Slam” in Saudi Arabia: “We have faced each other many times, so it will be a lot .” It would be fun to play against each other again in this match.

Nadal will face Djokovic in the game for third place on Saturday – both veteran stars had lost their semi-finals. Nadal had no chance at 3:6, 3:6 against Alcaraz, Djokovic won 2:6, 7:6 (7:0), 4:6 against world number one Jannik Sinner (Italy).

After the Davis Cup final next month in Malaga, Nadal ended his career. “Emotionally, I’m sure I’ll be ready. As far as the physical level is concerned, I still have a month to prepare,” said the Spaniard, who has struggled with injuries in recent years.