Rafael Nadal on Sunday defeated Casper Rudd in the French Open final to win the tournament for a record 14th time. The Spaniard now has won 22 Grand Slams, two more than his closest rivals Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer. 

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Nadal won the last 11 games after trailing 3-1 in the second set. He defeated his 23-year-old opponent 6-3, 6-3, 6-0.  His victory came two days after his 36th birthday and made him the oldest title winner in the history of the clay-court tournament.

After shattering multiple records and winning the tournament, Rafa thanked his team, the organisers and his family members. The tennis GOAT added that he is unsure about the future but wants to keep figthing. 

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Immediately after Nadal’s win, celebrities and stars across professions congratulated the 36-year-old. Rudd, who lost to him, said, “We all know what a champion you are. Today I got to feel how it is to play against you in a final – it’s not easy, I am not the first victim, I know there have been many before.”

Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar tweeted: “To go out there and win a record 14th @rolandgarros & 22nd Grand Slam at the age of 36 is an incredible achievement. Congratulations @RafaelNadal.”

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Former India men’s cricket coach Ravi Shastri said Nadal is Hercules. 

“A modern day Hercules who just will not melt in the hottest Claypot. Starts favourite to make it 15 only. Just insane. Salute forever,” he tweeted. 

Also Read: Nadal, unsure of future, ‘will fight to keep going’ after French Open win

Rafa’s favourite football club, Real Madrid, who had win their 14th Champions League last week said, “Congratulations on this historic feat, @RafaelNadal. It’s an honour being able to enjoy a great madridista and honorary club member as the best tennis player of all-time.”

A player for Madrid, Marco Asensio said, “THE FOURTEENTH. Coincidence? I don’t think so. Historic @RafaelNadal BRAVO”