Rafa king of Clay

Rafael Nadal has won a record breaking Seventh Roland Garros title against world number 1 Novak Djokovic in a match which was full of drama. The Rivalry between the Spaniard and the Serb is quickly becoming one of the fiercest in tennis. Both players have a great deal of respect for each other but give no quarter.

Djokovic who bested Nadal in the previous 3 Grand Slam finals could not hold on to beat Nadal at the French, the only title which he is yet to win. The Spaniard sped to 2 set lead before rain threw a spanner in the works. Nadal who uses his superior spin, coupled with the balls and the clay make him almost unbeatable on clay. The rain making the balls and the surface wet and heavy which cancelled out Nadals advantage. Djokovic capitalised on this winning the third set comfortably against a rattled Nadal.

The Serb was looking set to take the Fourth set until the rain became too heavy and play was delayed until the next day. Play resumed with Nadal leading the Fourth set 3-2 but hardly looked comfortable. Djokovic showed signs of brilliance which helped him take the previous Grand slams but could not break the defence of Nadal. At 6-5 in the Fourth Djokovic double faulted to give Nadal his record breaking win. Wimbledon could be the next place where these 2 champions do battle once again.

Rafael Nadal © Gallo Images