Novak Djokovic has teased a potential matchup with his longtime rival Rafael Nadal on a golf course.
Djokovic has triumphed in 30 out of 58 meetings against Nadal on the ATP Tour in what many consider one of the most prolific rivalries in men's tennis.
There is not a lot to separate between them on a tennis court. The Spaniard has lifted 21 Grand Slam trophies, which is the most of any man. His Serbian rival has 20 majors and can draw level at the French Open next month.
But before they turn their attention to the clay-court Grand Slam, Djokovic and Nadal could still face each other in the semifinals of the 2022 Italian Open this week.
Djokovic eased past three-time major champion Stan Wawrinka 6-2, 6-2 to reach the last eight stage at the Foro Italico. It will be his 16th successive quarterfinal at a single Masters 1000 tournament, which is a record on the ATP Tour.
Speaking after the match to reporters, Djokovic welcomed the prospect of facing Nadal this week in the semifinal stage, provided they both get there. His great rival, who saw off John Isner, must beat Denis Shapovlaov and Casper Ruud for it to happen.
Djokovic, meanwhile, will have to oust Felix Auger-Aliassime in the quarterfinal. But the Serb, who has played Nadal 58 times, wants to test himself against the Mallorcan on a golf course.
Both players are avid golfers, and it's one of their favorite hobbies. Djokovic suggested that it might be fun to play a game of golf against Nadal one day, just as a friend. However, he later added that it would probably end up with both trying to win anyway.
"I think Rafael Nadal and I have challenged too many times on the tennis court. One day we could play golf just as friends, but knowing ourselves it will end with both of us trying to win."
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