Rafael Nadal continued where he left off at the Australian Open and claimed his 22nd Major title in Paris. Rafa conquered his 14th Roland Garros crown in June following a 6-3, 6-3, 6-0 triumph over Casper Ruud in two hours and 18 minutes.
Thus, Nadal extended his lead over Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer and became the second player with multiple titles at all four Majors after Djokovic. The Norwegian used a favorable draw to achieve a career-best result and become the first Major finalist from his country.
Still, he stood no chance against the king of clay, who broke him eight times from 16 opportunities. Rafa fired 37 winners and 18 unforced errors and pushed the rival’s backhand to the limits in one of his most one-sided Roland Garros finals.
They stayed neck and neck in the shortest range up to four strokes. However, Nadal forged the victory in the more advanced exchanges. The Spaniard was especially impressive in the rallies with five or six shots, building a 24-6 lead and marching over the finish line with a bagel in set number three.
Nadal trailed 3-1 in the second set before rattling off 11 straight games and sailing over the finish line.
Rafael Nadal lost six games against Casper Ruud in the Roland Garros final.
Rafa made the first strike in the encounter’s second…
