“I don’t know any other record in any other sport that equals that” : Boris Becker on Rafael Nadal’s incredible French Open record

Rafael Nadal is all set to compete in what could be his last appearance at the French Open. The Spaniard has been handed a very difficult first round opponent, as he faces Alexander Zverev on Monday. Former six-time Grand Slam champion Boris Becker has heaped praise on Rafael Nadal, and stated that his record at the French Open is the greatest in the history of the sport.

Rafael Nadal has won the French Open on a staggering 14 occasions, as he has rightfully earned the title of the ‘King of the Clay.’ Boris Becker was in awe of the Spaniard’s incredible record in Paris, and stated that winning the French Open on 14 occasions is something which could never be matched in the sport.

“You win it five times, that’s a lot, you win it 10 times, it’s impossible. Nadal’s won it 14 times. I don’t know any other record in any other sport that equals that,” Becker said to CNN.

French Open is often regarded as the toughest Grand Slam of the year, given the nature of the clay courts. Rafael Nadal’s first triumph at the French Open came in 2005, and he has been dominating the tournament ever since.

Boris Becker admits being surprised at discovering Rafael Nadal’s first round opponent

Boris Becker admitted he was surprised at finding out Rafael Nadal’s first round opponent. The German stated that fans are used to seeing the Spaniard seeded first or second at his beloved slam, and being unseeded has left him with a tough draw this time around.

“In the beginning, I didn’t believe it and thought that someone had made a mistake. Only then did I realize that Nadal wasn’t seeded this year. So it was logical. But at first I actually thought that they were both seeded – because you’re just used to Rafa being seeded first or second in Paris,” said Becker.

Rafael Nadal has not played much tennis this year, as he has struggled to get going in the clay court season. The Spaniard face a second round exit at the hands of Hubert Hurkacz in the second round of the Italian Open, losing in straight sets. He did well at the Madrid Masters, reaching the fourth round, after getting through a couple of tricky battles.

Also Read: “Of course I am worried” : Novak Djokovic on his chances at the 2024 French Open