The sporting world witnessed Rafael Nadal make yet more history at Roland Garros, yesterday, as the King of Clay comprehensively defeated Stan Wawrinka in straight sets to lift his TENTH French Open title.
Nadal's 'La Decima' is his 15th Grand Slam overall, just three short of Roger Federer's 18 titles and the Swiss master wasted no time in congratulating the Spaniard on his phenomenal achievement.
The victory at Roland Garros saw Nadal fail to drop a single set throughout the entire tournament, losing just 35 games en route to his tenth title.
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As the sporting world paid their tributes to the 31-year-old, one tribute stood out among the rest, from his historic rival, Federer.
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The pair have contested some of the most memorable finals of the modern era, establishing themselves as not just the two greatest players of their generation, but of all time.
Nadal and Federer went head-to-head at three straight Wimbledon finals between 2006 and 2008, with Federer taking the 2006 and 2007 titles before Nadal lifted the championship for the first time in 2008.
Nadal was imperious during his straight sets victory over Stan Wawrinka, yesterday. Images: PA
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A year later, Nadal saw off Federer in the Australian Open final and also has a perfect record against his Swiss counterpart in Roland Garros finals, triumphing over Federer in 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2011. Federer would emerge victorious from their most recent final meeting, however, claiming this year's Australian Open at the Spaniard's expense.
Respect. Image: PA
Despite their rivalry on the court, however, both men are deeply respectful of each other, as Federer's tweet proves. Here's hoping we get to see them play out a few more five set epics before they decide to call it a day.
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(H/T Give Me Sport)
Topics: Tennis, Rafael Nadal, roger federer