Rafael Nadal has rewritten the history books of tennis after toppling rival Dominic Thiem 6-3, 5-7,6-1, 6-1, to win the French Open.
The 33-year-old managed to tame the threat posed by his spirited rival to clinch the title for a 12th time in his career. Becoming the first ever player – man or woman – to reach that number of victories at the same grand slam. Producing a performance that saw him win 73% of his service points as he hit a total of 38 winners past Thiem. Nadal also converted seven out of 13 break point opportunities during a clash that lasted a fraction over three hours.
“It’s an incredible moment. I can’t explain it.” Nadal said in French moments after the win.
“It was a dream to play (at Roland Garros) back in 2005 when I won my first title. This continues to be a dream and thank you to everybody who continues to support me.“
In what was a repeat of last year’s final at Roland Garros, Nadal headed into the clash as the overwhelming favourite. Not only had he won the title on 11 previous occasions, he was also the fresher of the two. Compared to Thiem, who was playing for the fourth day in a role due to the turbulent weather in Paris.
Nevertheless, it had little impact on what was a stellar start to the final with both players engaging in gut-busting rallies. Triggering cheers from the packed crowd on Court Philippe Chatrier. 26 minutes into the proceedings, Thiem was the first to draw blood. Hitting an almighty forehand followed by a smash at the net to break for the 3-2 lead. However, Nadal responded immediately by breaking back. Continuing to weather the storm and withstanding some ferocious shot-making from his opponent, the second seed increased his intensity. Breaking a second time for the chance to serve for the set. An opportunity he seized with ease with the help of some costly errors from Thiem.
In control of the match, it looked as if Nadal would gain in momentum. During the second frame, he dropped only one point in five service games. Yet Thiem refused to be bullied off the court. Leading 6-5, the Austrian pounced at the most crucial moment. Back-to-back Nadal errors cost the former world No.1 dearly as he drew the match level. A huge breakthrough for Thiem, who failed to win a single set in his three previous meetings with Nadal at the French Open.
Exiting the court for a comfort break, Nadal returned like a completely new player. Giving the performance many expected and Thiem feared. A nightmare service game from the increasingly weary world No.4 at the start of the third lead to Nadal winning 11 consecutive points on route to a 4-0 lead. Continuing to capitalise against a rapidly faltering Thiem, the lead was swiftly restored with ease. Moving him to six games away from victory.
Closing in on his 93rd victory in the tournament, Nadal continued to dominate. Admirably Thiem continued to battle, but his form was nowhere near to what it was during the early part of the final. In the end it was a one-sided triumph for the king of clay, who prevailed on his second championship point after a Thiem forehand drifted beyond the baseline.
“The first thing I want to say is congratulations to Dominic. I feel sorry for him because he deserves it (the title) too.” Said Nadal.
“I hope that he will have a chance to win in the future. He has an unbelievable intensity and unbelievable passion for this sport. He’s a hard worker.”
There is some consolation for Thiem, who is now the only active player under the age of 30 to win a set in the final of a grand slam on the ATP Tour.
“It’s very tough right now because I have given everything I’ve had over these past two weeks. They were amazing.” Thiem reflected. “I love this tournament with my heart.”
“Rafa, well done. Of course, I’m very sad to lose, but you’re such an amazing champion, such a legend of our sport.” He added.
The latest win is Nadal’s 950th on the tour and 260th in a grand slam. He exits the tournament with 2000 ranking points and €2,300,000 in prize money. Nadal is also only the fourth man in history to claim a fourth grand slam title after turning 30.
