Rafael Nadal has won his 22nd career Grand Slam, winning the Roland Garros for the 14th time in his career. The Spaniard is now the tennis player with the most number of Grand Slam titles of the current big three of tennis. He also became the oldest player to win the clay court tournament, receiving the trophy two days after turning 36.
The veteran defeated Casper Ruud 6-3, 6-3, 6-0 in a one-sided affair to win the 2022 edition of the tournament. He has captured a record 63 tour-level titles on clay during his illustrious career.
Rafael Nadal wins the 2022 Roland Garros
“It’s amazing, much more probably emotional than the first time because completely unexpected to be where I am at this age, at this stage of my career,” Nadal said. “So, means everything, I have been going through tough times the last couple of months and to have the trophy with me is something just unbelievable.”
The 36-year-old leveraged his fiery forehand during the game, and was able to take advantage of the clay court environment as well. Casper Ruud had a difficult time dealing with the power of his opponent’s crosscourt shots, and succumbed to them as a result.
After the game, Rafael Nadal also spoke on retirement owing to his recurring foot injury. “I don’t know, I can’t confirm or say you know I think – of course I will love to keep coming but at the same time, we need to find a solution for that no because I can’t keep going the way that I’m doing,” said Nadal.
