The Superman of Clay: Rafael Nadal Wins 6th French Open (Roland Garros) Title and Ties Historic Record of Bjorn Borg

Paris, France

Rafael Nadal (Spain, No. 1 Seed) defeated Roger Federer (Switzerland, No. 3 Seed) 7-5, 7-6 (3), 5-7, 6-1, at Court Philippe Chatrier for his 6th French Open (Roland Garros) Title, tying him for the historic record with the great Bjorn Borg. It was his 10th Grand Slam championship title, and keeps him at World No. 1 rank.

"To win this final against one of the best players in the world and in history is something which is really fantastic for me," said Nadal. "It's one of my most beautiful dreams."

Overcoming a slow start, Nadal methodically ground down his opponent with defensive shot-making gems, and heavy powerful topspin attacks.

His trademark Reverse Forehand always produces devastating power and spin, inevitably generating winners or unforced errors against any opponent, especially on the clay court surface.

Federer made a gallant effort especially early in the first set, and in taking the third set, but fell short again against Nadal at Roland Garros. "As it often happens, he is the best on clay," Federer said. "He proved it once again."

Nadal joins only Borg, who won this title 6 times in the 1970s and early 1980s, in the record books as "Masters of the Red Terra Batu" in Paris.

Congrats, Rafa!
Gary