Nadal has now won seven titles from nine finals since he returned to the tour in February. PHOTO: REUTERS
Nadal wept as he watched the Spanish flag being hoisted above Roland Garros after his 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 win over compatriot David Ferrer made him the first man to win the same Grand Slam title eight times.
But after missing the Olympics, the US and Australian Opens to rest his suspect left knee following his stunning second-round exit at Wimbledon just under a year ago, Sunday’s triumph seemed far off on the horizon.
“It’s very emotional. It’s a very important victory for me,” said Nadal. “It’s a great personal satisfaction and I am only here because of so many people. Five months ago, we never dreamed about this. I would have thought it would be impossible. But we are here; it’s incredible, fantastic.”
Nadal first to qualify for ATP Tour Finals
The Spaniard also booked his place at the World Tour finals after winning his eighth French Open title, announced the ATP yesterday.
The 27-year-old is fifth in the world rankings, but is first in the Race standings that are based on the calendar year’s results. He has already guaranteed a top-eight finish and a place at the end-of-season showpiece event in London.
“Nadal has now qualified for the ATP World Tour Finals nine straight years,” the ATP said in a statement.
Published in The Express Tribune, June 11th, 2013.
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