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Nadal Delighted To Equal Federer Record
Rafael Nadal equalled Roger Federer’s record of 20 Grand Slam titles as he brushed aside Novak Djokovic in the French Open final.
The Spaniard made just 14 unforced errors and hit 31 winners on the way to a 6-0 6-2 7-5 win over the Serb on Court Phillipe Chatrier.
Nadal, who is five years younger than Federer, moved level with the Swiss and three clear of Djokovic in slams won.
“I always say the same, that I would love to finish my career being the player with more Grand Slams,” said Nadal.
“But on the other hand I say, ‘OK, I have to do my way’. I did my way during all my career. Worked well. I’m not going to be thinking all the time Novak has this one, Roger is winning the other one. You can’t be always unhappy because your neighbour has a bigger house than you or a bigger boat or has a better phone.
“Of course I care. I am a big fan of the history of sport in general. For me it means a lot to share this number with Roger. But let’s see what’s going on when we finish our careers.
“I don’t know what can happen in the future. I am just excited. At the same time to share this record between us, that we had an amazing rivalry for such a long time, is something in some way beautiful I really believe.”
Djokovic praised Nadal for his performance in winning a record 13th French Open and the Spaniard was pleased with the level he found in Paris.
He added: “I played at an amazing level of tennis. For two-and-a-half sets I played great. I can’t say another thing. It’s impossible to have this score against him without playing great. Yeah, played a very good final.
“I played at my highest level when I needed to play at my highest level, so something I am very proud.”
/Stewart Sports news editor
