'Traumatic experience': Federer's ex-coach on facing Nadal at Roland Garros
What's the story
Ivan Ljubicic, former coach of tennis legend Roger Federer, has opened up about his experiences of facing Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros. Speaking to Eurosport, Ljubicic recalled the difficulties he encountered while facing Nadal's unique style. He also said that he finds it hard to digest that he won't be seeing Nadal professionally at Roland Garros after his retirement.
Retirement impact
Ljubicic reflects on Nadal's retirement and legacy
Ljubicic was surprised by Nadal's retirement announcement. "I was surprised when he announced his retirement. Obviously I can understand why, that's not the point," he said. He added, "But for me, Rafa Nadal is Roland Garros, and seeing that he's not going to play Roland Garros is difficult to accept."
Style comparison
Ljubicic compares Nadal and Federer's playing styles
Ljubicic also drew a comparison between Nadal and Federer's playing styles. He said Nadal's game was tactically simple but hard to deal with because of his unique topspin. However, he found Federer's style to be more complicated, saying "Roger came up with different solutions every time, and for me, tactically, it was very complicated."
French Open
King of Clay! A class apart on French Open
Nadal was a class apart at the French Open, thereby earning the title King of Clay. The Spaniard owns 14 French Open honors (2005-2008, 2010-2014, 2017-2020, and 2022), winning eight more than Bjorn Borg (6). Nadal also holds the record for winning most titles at a Grand Slam and on a single surface (clay). He has a perfect record in French Open finals (14).
Records
Only four French Open defeats, other records
Nadal has an incredible win-loss record of 112-4 at Roland Garros. He has the highest win percentage (97). His only defeats at this Slam came against Robin Soderling, Novak Djokovic (twice), and Alexander Zverev. The Spaniard also holds the record for winning 39 consecutive French Open matches. Nadal won four French Open titles without losing a set (2008, 2010, 2017, and 2020), the most for a player.