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(Reuters) – Roger Federer saw his men’s record of 20 Grand Slam singles titles equaled by Rafa Nadal on Sunday and the great Swiss was quick to congratulate the Spaniard.
Nadal crushed Serbian world number one Novak Djokovic 6-0, 6-2 and 7-5 to claim a 13th French Open title and catch up with Federer for the first time in his career.
“I have always had the utmost respect for my friend Rafa as a person and as a champion,” Federer, who already owned four Grand Slam titles when Nadal won his first French Open title in 2005, said on Twitter.
“As my biggest rival for many years, I think we have pushed each other to become better players.
“It is therefore a real honor for me to congratulate him on his 20th Grand Slam victory.”
The 34-year-old Nadal has lost just two games at the French Open, racking up his 100th win on Sunday.
“It is especially surprising that he has won Roland Garros an incredible 13 times, which is one of the greatest achievements in the sport.” I also congratulate his team because no one can do this alone. “
Federer turned 39 in August and missed the French and US Open while recovering from injury, but has vowed to return to the Australian Open next year.
“I hope 20 is just one more step in the ongoing journey for both of us,” said the Swiss.
“Well done Rafa, you deserve it.”
Djokovic is third on the list with 17 Grand Slam titles.
(Reporting by Martyn Herman, Editing by Pritha Sarkar)
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