Novak Djokovic defeated Rafael Nadal on Friday, his only third in the last sixteen years of the French Open. 

In an epic Showdown at the Semifinals Djokovic defeated Nadal  3-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 and stays on course to capture a 19th major and become the first man in over 50 years to win all four Slams twice. 

Nadal, 35, who would have been the oldest finalist at the French Open in the modern era, remains tied on 20 majors with Roger Federer. 

To put how rare the defeat is, Nadal has conquered 13 out of the last 16  French Open Titles, with only three losses out of the 108 clashes.

"It was a privilege to face Rafa in such an incredible match," said Djokovic after four hours and 11 minutes of intense action. 

It was Nadal's first defeat in 14 semi-finals in the French capital. 

"Probably it was not my best day today, even if I fought," said Nadal, "sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. I had a big chance. There were some crazy points but there was fatigue there."

The semifinal was allowed to have spectators despite exceeding the COVID-19 11 pm curfew.