French Open Victory Propels Nadal to Tennis Legend Status

Spanish tennis star Rafael Nadal conquered the wet clay of Roland Garros and defeated rival Novak Djokovic to earn more than just another Grand Slam title.

Nadal earned himself a spot in tennis immortality by breaking a record in dramatic fashion, while also passing a tennis legend.

Nadal, only 26 years old, captured his record seventh title with his victory on Monday at the 111th annual French Open. This win boosts Nadal past Swedish tennis great Bjorn Borg in titles won on Paris's famed clay courts.

This tournament is, for me, the most special tournament of the world, said Nadal. I feel very lucky to achieve all what I have achieved.

Even Djokovic, defeated with a final tally of 6-4, 6-3, 2-6, 7-5, noted how this title win has framed Nadal's greatness.

He's definitely (the) best player in history ... on this surface, said Djokovic.

While Nadal may statistically be the greatest French Open performer, many are also beginning to call him the best clay court tennis player of all time.

Results are showing that he's one of the best ever, said Djokovic.

With seven of Nadal's 11 Grand Slam titles being won on clay, it's hard to argue.