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Rafael Nadal Wins Unprecedented 9th French Open Title
Rafael Nadal takes home the 2014 French Open men's singles title for the ninth time in his tennis career.
The accomplished athlete applied an incredible amount of strength and precision in the final against Novak Djokovic, beating Djokovic 3-6, 5-7, 2-6 and 6-4. The grand slam took place Sunday June 8. 2014 and lead Rafael to his record fifth victory in a row.
The finals was not all smooth sailing for Nadal, as Djokovic won the first set, in control of nearly every point. But as the game progressed, Nadal regrouped; leaving behind a sloppy service game and found his killer forehand.
"Every moment is crucial now. All the points are so hard," Nadal said. "Playing against Novak always is a big, big challenge for me."
Breaking down Djokovic’s defense, Nadal won eight of the final nine points and bagged the second set. The third set brought about unbreakable serves from Nadal that lead to Djokovic’s demise. As the heat increased both players used ice-filled towels to cool down but it was Nadal who kept up his killer form, winning both the third and fourth sets.
Nadal and Djokovic on the red clay courts of Roland Garros/ mashable
After 31 jaw dropping minutes, Djokovic double-faulted for the third time on match point, resulting in Nadal's sweet victory where he immediately dropped to his knees.
"I played at the maximum of my power, my strength, and my capability, but Rafa was the best player on the court," said Djokovic.
The 28-year-old Spaniard is tied with Pete Sampras for the second most overall grand slam titles by a man, pulling in behind Roger Federer who has 17.
Hailed as the “King of Clay” and now the no 1 ranked player, Nadal is also known for his excellence as he's won 66 out of the 67 career matches played at Roland Garros.
Djokovic said, "It's not impossible, but it's very, very difficult to stay with Rafa in this court, throughout the whole match, on the highest level of performance. That trophy is out of reach this year but I will come back again, and again, and again and again until I win it.”
In regards to his opponent Nadal said, “I think he deserves to win this tournament, I'm sure he will in the future."
Featured Image: sportsnet
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