Rafael Nadal’s stunning performance to win his 13th French Open and 20th Grand Slam title drew praise from across the world. His long-time rival Roger Federer paid tribute to the Spaniard, labelling his reign on clay as ‘one of the greatest achievements.’
“I have always had the utmost respect for my friend Rafa as a person and as a champion,” Federer, whose record of most number of Grand Slam titles Nadal equaled on Sunday, tweeted.
ALSO READ: Where Nadal aced the Djokovic test
“As my greatest rival over many years, I believe we have pushed each other to become better players. Therefore, it is a true honour for me to congratulate him on his 20th Grand Slam victory.
“It is especially amazing that he has now won Roland Garros an incredible 13 times, which is one of the greatest achievements in sport. I also congratulate his team, because nobody can do this alone. I hope 20 is just another step on the continuing journey for both of us. Well done, Rafa. You deserve it.”
Upgrade your serve with our FREE guide
Here’s how the Twitterati reacted to Nadal’s phenomenal achievement:
Congratulations to the King of Clay @RafaelNadal. Winning 13 Slams in Paris is extraordinary, a fitting Grand Slam finale to a challenging year. You're an inspiration Rafa, gracious and great. Here’s to 20 majors. 🚀
— Rod Laver (@rodlaver) October 11, 2020
Congratulations Rafa. You’re an example to everyone in our sport and the best we’ve seen. Most importantly, a great person. Huge respect. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 @RafaelNadal
— Simona Halep (@Simona_Halep) October 11, 2020
Congratulations to @RafaelNadal, the Men’s Singles champion at #RolandGarros!
100 matches and 13 titles @rolandgarros.
And his 20th Grand Slam win! pic.twitter.com/qM72xsT4mG
— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) October 11, 2020
Beyond the impossible!!! 13x #champion @rafaelnadal @rolandgarros #congrats pic.twitter.com/jo9q2mtM5V
— Gustavo Kuerten (@gugakuerten) October 11, 2020
Both of you won your first Grand Slam at age 19.
Just saying. 🤷♂️ 😉 @iga_swiatek | @RafaelNadal | #RolandGarros https://t.co/7J1ak1AmRW
— ATP Tour (@atptour) October 11, 2020
The King's Speech
"For me winning here another time is I even cannot say a dream. It's something that's out of my better thoughts."@RafaelNadal #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/OA9P0OvfkQ
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) October 11, 2020
Amazing @RafaelNadal 👏 A legend on and off court. Congrats 🏆 @rolandgarros
— Kevin Anderson (@KAndersonATP) October 11, 2020
