Novak’s hope of winning his first Roland Garros title and completing career Grand Slam was dashed when Rafael Nadal defeated him 3-6, 7-5, 6-2, 6-4 in three hours and 31 minutes in the French Open final on Sunday.
History was at stake for both men, Nadal was playing for a record ninth Roland Garros title; Nole was looking to become the eighth man in tennis history to complete a career Slam.
The Spaniard turned out to be an invincible obstacle like in all previous matches on Parisian clay since they first met in 2006. He is now tied in the second place with Pete Sampras on list of men’s Slam titlists with 14 Major trophies. Roger Federer holds 17 titles.
It was the 13th Grand Slam championship final for Novak (6-7 record), who received standing ovation on Court Philippe Chatrier as he stepped up to receive the finalist’s plate.
“It was a very emotional day and I gave everything,” he said.“Thanks to the fans for all the passion and emotion they’ve shown throughout the tournament. The trophy was a bit too far out of reach this year. I’ll come back again and again until I win it.”
“It’s always a pleasure to play against you Novak and congratulations for all the things you are doing. All the best to you and your team, I am sure you will win here one day,” Nadal said at the on-court trophy presentation.
Novak broke three times from nine opportunities, while the Manacor native converted six of his 10 break point chances.
Match statistics: aces (11-3), double faults (3-4), winners (43-44), unforced errors (49-38), total points won (116-130).
In the ATP Ranking list to be released on Monday, June 9, Novak will have just 170 points less than the top-ranked Nadal.
After his second Roland Garros final, Nole heads to Wimbledon, the third Grand Slam event of the season, where he reached final last year (l.to Murray 4-6, 5-7, 4-6).
Photo: AP
