Rafael Nadal has once again demonstrated how gracious he is with a classy congratulatory message to his great rival Novak Djokovic, who clinched his 23rd Grand Slam title at the French Open.
The 36-year-old
sealed another historic Grand Slam title and his third at Roland-Garros on Sunday as he defeated fourth seed Casper Ruud in straight sets, 7-6(1) 6-3 7-5, to move ahead of Nadal and his 22 majors.
The Spaniard was quick to post a message of congratulations on social media after he saw Djokovic surpass his own legendary tally with a comprehensive and hugely impressive victory on the red dirt in Paris.
While it may have been tough for the injured Nadal to watch his main rival lift the trophy on Court Philippe-Chatrier – the place he has clinched a record 14 titles – he was sporting in posting his tribute to the Serb.
The 37-year-old Nadal, who may well have been hoping that his compatriot Carlos Alcaraz would have succeeded him in going all the way at Roland-Garros this year, described it as an “amazing achievement”.
“Many congrats on this amazing achievement, Novak Djokovic,” Nadal’s message began.
“23 is a number that just a few years back was impossible to think about, and you made it! Enjoy it with your family and team!”
Djokovic, who also triumphed at the Australian Open at the start of the year, now has another opportunity to clinch an unfathomable ‘Calendar Slam’ this season if he can also be victorious at Wimbledon and then the US Open.
The Serb came agonisingly close to doing so in 2021 before coming up just short in the US Open final against Daniil Medvedev at Flushing Meadows as his dream drifted away at the final hurdle.
While it may still be a huge challenge with only half of the job done, there will be few people doubting Djokovic’s ability to win all four Grand Slams this season after the start to his campaign.
(EuroSport)
