French Open: Rafael Nadal defeats Casper Rudd to win 14th French Open
Rafael Nadal defeated Casper Rudd of Norway 6-3, 6-3, 6-0 in the men’s singles final of the French Open on Court Philippe Chatrier on June 5 to clinch his 14th French Open title
Rafael NADAL of Spain celebrates his victory with the trophy during the Day fifteen of Roland-Garros 2022Rafael Nadal has further improved his record to steer clear of Serbian star Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer with 22 Grand Slam titles. The victory improved his record at Roland Garros to 112-3. He is now level with Spanish sensation Carlos Alcaraz with four title victories in the ongoing season.
Rafael Nadal started the match aggressively and brilliantly utilized his forehand with heavy topspin to defeat his Norwegian opponent in the first set. Casper Rudd had a better start in the second half and quickly took a 1-3 lead. However, the Spaniard took back control with several stunning passing shots, winning more extended exchanges and hanging onto points. Rafael Nadal finished off his Norwegian opponent with a third set bagel to wrap up the match after two hours and 20 minutes of play.
Rafael Nadal put forth a brilliant display of trademark fighting ability and resilience to win the Roland Garros title for the 14th time. Despite struggling with a chronic foot injury, sustained just three weeks ago while playing at the Rome Open.
Rafael Nadal said, “For me, it is tough to describe my feelings during the trophy ceremony. It is something that I have never believed. To be here at 36, being competitive again on the most critical court of my career. 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 will keep fighting to keep going.
Following the victory, Rafael Nadal became the third player in history to defeat four top-ten opponents in a Grand Slam since Pepperstone ATP Rankings started keeping track in 1973. The 36-year-old has now won 63 tour-level titles on clay and holds a 30-3 record for the season. He will rise to the fourth spot of the Pepperstone ATP Rankings on June 6, owing to the victory.
Casper Rudd, who has previously trained and the academy of Rafael Nadal in Mallorca, was playing his maiden Grand Slam final. After the match, Casper Rudd said, To you, Rafa, your team, your family. You have taken me into your academy with open arms. So thank you a lot. You are a true inspiration to me and everyone who follows tennis worldwide. We all hope you will continue for some more time.