Rafael Nadal pays tribute to Dominic Thiem in classy message after 12th French Open win

“First thing I want to say is congrats to Dominic. I feel sorry – he deserves it,” Nadal said.

“He has absolute intensity and passion for this sport. He’s such a hard worker. I wish him all the best for the future.”

“I can’t explain what I’ve achieved and how I feel. It’s a dream.

“To play for the first time in 2005 – never thought in 2019 I’d still be here. It’s an incredible moment and very special for me.”

Former British number one Greg Rusedski said on BBC Radio 5 Live: “Nadal is enjoying this moment more than ever.

“Thirty-three years young and he just gets better like a fine bottle of wine.”

ALL-TIME GRAND SLAM TITLES

Roger Federer – 20

Rafael Nadal – 18

Novak Djokovic – 15

Pete Sampras – 14

Roy Emerson – 12

Rod Laver, Bjorn Borg – 11

Bill Tilden – 10

Fred Perry, Ken Rosewall, Jimmy Connors, Ivan Lendl, Andre Agassi – 9