Novak Djokovic lost to Rafael Nadal in the quarterfinals of the 2022 Roland Garros and also lost his chance to match the Spaniard's 21 Grand Slam titles in Paris.
On the other hand, Rafael Nadal can earn his 22nd and get 2 titles away from Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer in so called 'GOAT Race'. Although both players had their strong moments throughout their quarterfinal match at the Roland Garros, the Serbian claims that the crowd massively helped his opponent, when he said:
“Congratulations to Nadal. He was a better player I think in important moments. [He] started very well. I didn't start so great, 2-6, 0-3, double break down. I was gaining momentum as I was coming back in the second set, managed to win the second set, and I thought, I'm back in the game."
“But then he had another two, three fantastic games at the beginning of the third. He was just able to take his tennis to another level in those, particularly moments at the beginning of all sets except the fourth…. he showed why he's a great champion. Staying mentally tough and finishing the match the way he did. Congrats to him and his team. No doubt he deserved it.”
“I gave my best. I know I could have played better. I'm proud of fighting and staying until the last shot. As I said, I lost to a better player today. Had my chances. Didn't use them. That's it. Over four hours' battle and I have to accept this defeat.”
"It’s not the first time that he is able to, a few days after he is injured and can barely walk, come out 100% physically fit. He has done it many times in his career so I am not surprised. I think the crowd contributed a lot to the turnaround in the fourth set. They were 99.9% by his side and they lifted him up in crucial moments. They helped him to find his energy."
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