I've always respected Rafa, never really liked or rooted for him because of some of his gamesmanship tactics.
Gotta say, both guys were hurt today, and Rafa pulled it out of the hat.
1. Federer - 17
2. Sampras - 14
3. Nadal - 14
While I don't think Nadal will win another major this year, he will definitely pass Sampras next year and be #2 in sole place...
What's amazing is the more Rafa wins, the more it adds to Federer's legacy as well for both of them... The Greatest Clay Courter of All Time, his biggest rival was undoubtedly the Greatest All-Around Player of all time. Nadal broke Federer's record streak on grass that amassed over 5 years, Federer broke Nadal's record on clay that he amassed over 3 years, and then again. And then broke Djokovic's 44 match winning streak at 30 years old.
Props to Rafa for pulling it out today.
Rafa, 9 French Opens, 1 Australian, 2 USO, 2 Wimbledons
Federer, 7 Wimbledons, 5 USO, 4 Australians, 1 French Open.
How great is it that Federer is the only person in the last decade to win the French except Nadal.