Current world number 1 and former French Open champion Simona Halep believes that Rafa Nadal is “the best we’ve seen”, following his stunning 13th victory at Roland Garros.Nadal swept Djokovic aside in three dominant sets in Sunday’s final, drawing him level with Roger Federer on 20 Grand Slam titles.
This prompted a wave of congratulations for Nadal over social media, with plaudits for the Spaniard’s phenomenal achievement coming from all corners of the tennis world. One of the more eye-catching comments came from Simona Halep, the reigning Wimbledon champion lauding Rafa’s attributes both as a person and as a champion – “You’re an example to everyone in our sport and the best we’ve seen. Most importantly, a great person. Huge respect.”
The outcome of this match had huge ramifications for the ongoing debate about who is the greatest male tennis player of all time. Novak was looking to become the first man ever to win every Grand Slam singles title twice, an historic accomplishment that would also see him move to within one major of Nadal’s overall haul, and two behind Federer.
But it was Nadal who triumphed, in breathtaking fashion, to extend his record on the Parisian clay and pull three ahead of Djokovic in the race for Grand Slam titles.
And with Federer announcing his return to competitive action at the Australian Open next year, and both Nadal and Djokovic still in scintillating form, this debate is far from over. Whatever the final outcome, it is going to be fascinating.
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
