The wish Jannik Sinner made about Rafael Nadal which never came true after he faced him for the very final time at Roland Garros

Jannik Sinner’s Wish to Face Rafael Nadal Again Never Came True

Jannik Sinner once hoped for more matches against Rafael Nadal, but that wish never became reality.

Now a three-time Grand Slam champion and the undisputed World No. 1, Sinner’s rise to the top has been nothing short of remarkable. However, one of his early career learning experiences came from facing Nadal on the legendary clay courts of Roland Garros.

Sinner’s Final Battle with Nadal at the French Open

The last time Sinner and Nadal met was in the fourth round of the 2021 French Open. Despite a competitive first set, Nadal took full control to win 7-5, 6-3, 6-0. After the match, Sinner praised the Spanish legend’s performance and expressed his desire for another showdown.

“I hope I can still have one more chance to play against him,” Sinner said. “He’s set the bar so high, and I’d love to test myself again.”

Unfortunately for Sinner, that opportunity never came. With Nadal now retired, their three-match head-to-head remains unchanged.

A Short but Memorable Rivalry

Between 2020 and 2021, Sinner and Nadal faced off three times, including two French Open clashes. Their first battle, in the 2020 quarterfinals, saw a teenage Sinner push Nadal before falling in straight sets. They also met at the Italian Open, with Nadal again emerging victorious.

Though their rivalry was brief, Sinner’s encounters with Nadal played a crucial role in shaping the champion he has become today.