French Open Champion Rafa Nadal Left Speechless After La Decima
After winning the French Open title for an unprecedented 10th time, Rafael Nadal was left searching for words to explain his emotions.
OMNISPORT
French Open champion Rafael Nadal found it "impossible to describe" his feelings after claiming an unprecedented 10th title at the same major.
Nadal was in stunning form as he overcame third seed Stan Wawrinka 6-2 6-3 6-1 in Sunday's final on Court Philippe Chatrier, making history in the process.
Victory provided the Spaniard with a 15th major that surpasses the haul of Pete Sampras and puts him three back of Roger Federer's all-time record of 18, while also sending him second in the rankings for the first time since October 2014.
After clinching victory, an emotional Nadal struggled to explain what he was feeling about his slice of tennis history.
He said: "It was an incredible final and a special one, to win 'La Decima'.
"I try my best in all events, but the feeling that I have here is impossible to describe. It's difficult to compare to other places.
"For me the nerves, the adrenaline I feel when I play on this court is impossible to compare to another feeling.
"This is the most important event in my career without a doubt so to win here is something that I cannot describe."
Nadal was presented with the Coupe des Mousquetaires by his uncle Toni in a heart-warming moment, and he thanked his former coach for helping him achieve historic heights.
"It's difficult to talk today but the only thing that I can say is thank you," he said.
"For me just to be here for such a lot of years is something difficult to describe. Every time I come back I see a lot of people I have good relationships with, that's why it's difficult to compare to another tournament. You're always going to be in my heart.
"Thanks to my friends, my family, my team, all the people that came from all around for the final means a lot to me.
"Especially to my uncle who has been with me since I was three years old. We have been working a lot and without him no trophies would be possible. Thank you for everything.
"Playing on this court and feeling the support of you guys who I love more than anyone else is incredible so thank you."