What a treat it was to watch Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic do battle on the red clay of Court Philippe-Chatrier at Roland-Garros.

Djokovic defeated Nadal in straight sets (6-1, 6-4) but not without a fightback from the legendary Spaniard.

It’s no surprise that most of the crowd appeared to be on Team Rafa - he has to be the most popular non-French athlete at these Games, at least judging by the spontaneous roar of joy when he appeared by the Seine during Friday night’s opening ceremony to accept the Olympic torch from Zinedane Zidane.

Nadal and Djokovic have 46 grand slam titles between them, and 16 French Opens.

Djokovic took the first set 6-1 and was on track to take the second when Nadal brought the crowd to their feet with a point that reminded everyone why he is the king of clay. To level the set at 4-4, Nadal sent up a defensive lob, followed by a smash that Djokovic had to dig up from his toes, followed by a sizzling forehand passing shot. The Serb broke back and served out the match with an ace. The pair shared a hug at the net, before Nadal waved to the crowd as he left the stadium.

Nadal is still in the doubles with young Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz - they’re known in these parts as “Nadalcaraz”.

It’s hard to believe Djokovic has never won Olympic gold. This could be his time.