Rafael Nadal has won a record seventh French Open title after emerging a 6-4 6-3 2-6 7-5 victor in the final against Novak Djokovic. The encounter had to be pushed into a second day after rain disrupted it on Sunday at the Roland Garros.
Last year Nadal, who has now won 52 matches at Roland Garros and lost just one, equalled Bjorn Borg’s record of six wins on the Paris clay. Yesterday he became the greatest player the tournament has seen. “For me it is a great honour,” Nadal said, clutching the Musketeers Cup under his arm.? “This tournament is probably the most special in the world and having this trophy with me I am really emotional. It is probably one of the most special moments in my career.”
By contrast Djokovic was denied a career Grand Slam and also the chance to become the first player since Rod Laver in 1969 to hold all four Slam titles simultaneously. “Congratulations to Rafa and his team for another title; he is a great player,” Djokovic said. “I am privileged to be in this position for the first time. Rafa was a better player and I hope to come back next year and play even better.” In the final game, Djokovic hit long for 30-30 and another error gave Nadal the chance of victory.
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