Rafael Nadal continued his love affair with Phillippe-Chatier as he defeated Casper Ruud by 6-3, 6-3, 6-0 in the final to win his 14th Roland-Garros title and his record-extending 22nd Grand Slam title on Sunday. Nadal now has two more Majors to show than his rivals, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.
Ruud gave some competition to Nadal in the first two sets but the Spaniard totally dominated the contest in the final set as he bageled the Norwegian. The veteran was able to take a break in the second game of the opening set and didn’t look behind.
However, Ruud took an early break in the second set and took a lead of 3-1. But Nadal went on to win 11 games in a row to create history. The 36-year-old won a total of 86 points whereas Ruud could only win 55 points.
Nadal now has a 112-3 record at Roland-Garros as he carried his domination at French Open. In fact, there were doubts over Nadal’s supremacy because of his foot injury but the experienced campaigner once again proved his mettle.
“For me personally, it is very difficult to describe the feelings that I have. It is something that I have never believed. To be here at 36, being competitive again on the most important court of my career,” Nadal said during the trophy ceremony.
“One more title means a lot. It means a lot of energy to try and keep going…I don’t know what can happen in the future but I am going to keep fighting to try and keep going.”
Nadal gave his gratitude to his family, team, organisers, who did a fine job. Nadal has received a lot of support from family and team during this difficult phase of his career as he is struggling with foot injury.
”Team, family, everyone who is there. It is amazing the things that are happening this year,” Nadal said. “I just thank you very, very much for all the things you are doing for me and over the years. Without you none of this would be possible, without any doubt. Especially in the very tough moments we went through with injuries.
“Thank you to everyone who made this event possible. Without a doubt for me and for a lot of people who love the history of the sport, it is the best tournament in the world… You make me feel like home so I just want to say thank you very much everyone here and the French Federation.”
