Novak Djokovic managed to fend off a determined comeback attempt by Rafael Nadal on Monday, potentially marking the final act in their legendary tennis rivalry at the Paris Olympics. Meanwhile, British diver Tom Daley secured his fifth consecutive Olympic medal.
In the swimming events, Canada's Summer McIntosh began her quest for gold in the 400m medley during the morning session, while Australian swimmer Ariarne Titmus was highly anticipated to win her second gold of the day in the 400m freestyle. Under clear blue skies in Paris, a stark contrast to the rainy opening ceremony just three days prior, gold medals were contested in 11 different sports.
As heat warnings were issued for Paris and its surroundings, the most sought-after event was at Roland Garros, where Djokovic and Nadal faced off for the 60th time. Despite Djokovic's slight 30-29 lead in their head-to-head, Nadal had traditionally dominated on the clay courts of Paris. However, age and injuries have taken a toll on the Spanish star, who had admitted prior to the match that he might struggle to compete with Djokovic.
The prediction proved accurate as Djokovic swiftly won the first set 6-1. Nadal, however, showed glimpses of his former prowess in the second set, rallying from a 4-0 deficit to tie at 4-4, cheered on by a packed audience at Roland Garros. Djokovic ultimately secured a 6-1, 6-4 victory, with both players exchanging embraces and Nadal acknowledging the crowd.
The evening featured more thrilling swimming competitions, with Titmus aiming to add the 200m freestyle title to her 400m victory, where she outperformed rivals McIntosh and Katie Ledecky. Titmus, the reigning champion and world record holder, faces her toughest competition from fellow Australian Mollie O'Callaghan.
In diving, Daley and partner Noah Williams claimed a silver medal in the men's synchronised 10m platform, behind China's Lian Junjie and Yang Hao. Williams was emotional, reflecting on the loss of his former coach, Dave Jenkins. Daley, who also lost his father to cancer, expressed his pride in their performance.
China secured the first diving gold in Paris, leading the United States and Britain in the women's synchronised 3m springboard. The men's gymnastics team final promises a compelling contest between China and Japan. Gold medals were also contested in archery, canoeing, mountain biking, equestrian, fencing, judo, shooting, and skateboarding.
Yuto Horigome defended his men's skateboarding street title, with Japan potentially sweeping all three medals. In women's basketball, the United States started their quest for an eighth consecutive gold against Japan, with Diana Taurasi aiming for her sixth gold in her final international tournament. The Olympic organizers canceled a second day of triathlon training in the Seine due to water pollution caused by weekend rains.
