Rafael Nadal Jokes About Novak Djokovic 2nd-Round Matchup: Normally We Play in Finals

One of the greatest rivalries in tennis will be renewed on Monday when Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic meet in the second round of the men's singles tournament at the Paris Olympics.

After defeating Marton Fucsovics of Hungary 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 in the first round on Sunday, Nadal found humor in a major difference in his upcoming match against Djokovic.

"It's been always super special to play against Novak, no? No doubt about that. But the difference is normally we have been playing for finals or for semifinals. This is a second round," Nadal said with a laugh, per Howard Fenrich of the Associated Press.

Djokovic and Nadal have met 59 times in their legendary careers, with Djokovic leading the series 30-29. The 37-year-old Serbian also has a 15-13 record against Nadal in tournament finals, but Nadal has an 11-7 record in majors and a 5-4 edge in major finals.

The 38-year-old competed with a wrap on his thigh on Sunday and had to have his finger treated by a trainer during the third set. Djokovic is also banged up, as he underwent knee surgery in June after suffering a torn meniscus at the French Open.

Still, it can be expected that another meeting between Nadal and Djokovic will be an exciting showdown between two of tennis' all-time greats.

"Every single match that I played against Novak — almost every single match — I arrived with a different situation (than) I am (in) today. So that makes the match more difficult for me. And more unpredictable," Nadal said. "But I always have hope, I always believe, and I'm going to give my best."