<p>Norway's 23-year-old Casper Ruud was up against his idol Rafael Nadal in the 2022 French Open men's final on Sunday (June 05). Becoming the first-ever from his country to reach a Major final, Ruud had no answers against Nadal as the Spainard won the battle 6-3, 6-3, 6-0 in straight sets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was a dominant display from Nadal. While he won the first set, 6-3, in no time, he was behind in the second set as Ruud led 3-1. However, the 36-year-old rose his game to bounce back and demolished his opposition in a jiffy to seal the finale and win his 14th French Open trophy, also claiming his 22nd Grand Slam title overall.</p>

<p>After the proceedings, Ruud lavished huge praise on Nadal and revealed how not to play against him on clay courts. "Well, I wish I knew the answers too, but I got a cheap break of serve I think in the second set and was up 3-1, and of course wanted to get the match going and maybe try to win the set," Ruud said in a post-match press conference.</p>

<p>"But then he stepped up and he showed that when he needs to he plays great. It was tough for me to really know where I should play the ball. When you are playing defensive against Rafa on clay, he will eat you alive," Ruud opined.</p>

<p>"I said before the match that I guess it is. But now I think I know it is. At least what I have faced. It's really challenging and really tough. But I already knew it in a way,"&nbsp;Ruud added, who&nbsp;has also trained at Rafael Nadal's academy.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/do-you-use-make-up-french-open-champion-iga-swiatek-responds-to-absurd-question-by-journalist-485474">'Do you use make up?' French Open champion Iga Swiatek responds to absurd question by journalist</a></strong></p>

<p>At 36, Nadal battled injury concerns to reach the summit clash at the Roland Garros and returned with the elusive trophy. After the finale, he opened up on his future and Wimbledon participation and said, "I am going to be in Wimbledon if my body is ready to be in Wimbledon. Wimbledon is not a tournament that I want to miss. Wimbledon is a priority, always has been a priority. If I'm able to play with anti-inflammatories yes. To play with anaesthetic injections, I do not want to put myself in that position again. It can happen once but no it's not the philosophy of life I want to follow. Let's see. I am always a positive guy and always expect the things are going the right way. Let's be confident, let's be positive and let's see what's going on," Nadal stated.</p>


Norway's 23-year-old Casper Ruud was up against his idol Rafael Nadal in the 2022 French Open men's final on Sunday (June 05). Becoming the first-ever from his country to reach a Major final, Ruud had no answers against Nadal as the Spainard won the battle 6-3, 6-3, 6-0 in straight sets.

Norway's 23-year-old Casper Ruud was up against his idol Rafael Nadal in the 2022 French Open men's final on Sunday (June 05). Becoming the first-ever from his country to reach a Major final, Ruud had no answers against Nadal as the Spainard won the battle 6-3, 6-3, 6-0 in straight sets. It was a dominant display from Nadal. While he won the first set, 6-3, in no time, he was behind in the second set as Ruud led 3-1. However, the 36-year-old rose his game to bounce back and demolished his opposition in a jiffy to seal the finale and win his 14th French Open trophy, also claiming his 22nd Grand Slam title overall. After the proceedings, Ruud lavished huge praise on Nadal and revealed how not to play against him on clay courts. "Well, I wish I knew the answers too, but I got a cheap break of serve I think in the second set and was up 3-1, and of course wanted to get the match going and maybe try to win the set," Ruud said in a post-match press conference. "But then he stepped up and he showed that when he needs to he plays great. It was tough for me to really know where I should play the ball. When you are playing defensive against Rafa on clay, he will eat you alive," Ruud opined. "I said before the match that I guess it is. But now I think I know it is. At least what I have faced. It's really challenging and really tough. But I already knew it in a way," Ruud added, who has also trained at Rafael Nadal's academy. ALSO READ | 'Do you use make up?' French Open champion Iga Swiatek responds to absurd question by journalist At 36, Nadal battled injury concerns to reach the summit clash at the Roland Garros and returned with the elusive trophy. After the finale, he opened up on his future and Wimbledon participation and said, "I am going to be in Wimbledon if my body is ready to be in Wimbledon. Wimbledon is not a tournament that I want to miss. Wimbledon is a priority, always has been a priority. If I'm able to play with anti-inflammatories yes. To play with anaesthetic injections, I do not want to put myself in that position again. It can happen once but no it's not the philosophy of life I want to follow. Let's see. I am always a positive guy and always expect the things are going the right way. Let's be confident, let's be positive and let's see what's going on," Nadal stated.

'He'll eat you alive' - Casper Rudd on his experience of playing invincible Rafael Nadal in French Open final

<p>Rafael Nadal was absolutely unstoppable as he thrashed Norway's Casper Ruud in straights sets to win the French Open 2022 men's singles final in Paris on Sunday (June 05). Nadal has now won the French Open crown a record 14 times, a feat which has not been achieved by any male or female player in tennis history. He has also clinched a record-extending 22nd Grand Slam title further enhancing his lead over arch-rivals Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer, who are both tied on 20 Grand Slams each.</p>

<p>Nadal was an overwhelming favourite heading into the summit clash against 23-year-old Ruud, who he had mentored during his early days at the famous Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, Spain. Rudd had admitted ahead of the final that he almost lost each time he came up against the Spaniard during practice matches at the academy.</p>

<p>It was nothing different at the&nbsp;Court Philippe Chatrier in Paris on Sunday as Nadal once again proved why he remains the King of Clay. Nadal extended his flawless record in the French Open finals to 14-0. The 22-time Grand Slam champion has never lost in a final at the Roland Garros throughout his illustrious career.</p>

<p>He has come up against some of the best in the business with the likes of Djokovic, Federer and Stan Wawrinka among others trying to stop him in a French Open final. However, the Spaniard has managed to outclass them all to create an unparalleled legacy at the Roland Garros.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">All hail the King <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://t.co/jIOvOirGgN">pic.twitter.com/jIOvOirGgN</a></p>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-iga-swiatek-receives-standing-ovation-for-stay-strong-ukraine-message-after-french-open-win-485278">WATCH -&nbsp;Swiatek receives standing ovation for 'Stay strong Ukraine' message after French Open win</a></p>

<h3><strong>Rafael Nadal - Oldest men's champion in French Open history</strong></h3>

<p>Ahead of the much-awaited final, Nadal had no second thoughts in his mind when he was asked if he would give up a potential 22nd Grand Slam title for a new foot. The Spaniard, who has been dealing with a chronic injury in his left foot for quite a while now, said he would 'prefer to lose the final' against Ruud for a new foot as it would keep him happy for the rest of his life.</p>

<p>Despite battling a serious injury and in the final lap of his career, Nadal remains a force to reckon with on clay courts and has now become the oldest men's champion in French Open history by winning the title at the age of 36. 14 out of his 22 Grand Slams have come at the Roland Garros, showcasing his incredible dominance at the tournament.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The stage is yours again, <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/Nhp3e6wrwV">pic.twitter.com/Nhp3e6wrwV</a></p>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/casper-ruud-the-nadal-academy-trainee-up-against-his-mentor-in-french-open-showdown-485305">Casper Ruud - The Nadal Academy trainee up against his mentor in French Open showdown</a></p>

<p>Nadal dominated the proccedings from the word go in the final against Ruud and clinched the first set 6-3 inside 51 minutes before taking second set 6-3. He was trailing 3-1 in the second set after double faulting on break point but was quick to bounce back and get the better of Ruud, who was clearly struggling to battle his nerves in his very first meeting with Nadal so far in his career.</p>

<p>Ruud, the first man from his country to reach a Grand Slam final, was a no match for the tenacity of the Spaniard, who has known and dominated the competition so well over the years. Nadal was 19 when he won his first title at the Roland Garros in 2005 and 17 years later, he still remains untouchable in the competition.</p>

<p>In what is a testament to his longevity, Nadal has not only shown he can still be one of the best in the world despite carrying a serious niggle, but has also achieved several feats on his way to his 22nd Grand Slam title. 2022 is the firt time Nadal has won the Australian Open and French Open in the same year.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Rafael Nadal was absolutely unstoppable as he thrashed Norway's Casper Ruud in straights sets to win the French Open 2022 men's singles final in Paris on Sunday (June 05).

Rafael Nadal was absolutely unstoppable as he thrashed Norway's Casper Ruud in straights sets to win the French Open 2022 men's singles final in Paris on Sunday (June 05). Nadal has now won the French Open crown a record 14 times, a feat which has not been achieved by any male or female player in tennis history. He has also clinched a record-extending 22nd Grand Slam title further enhancing his lead over arch-rivals Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer, who are both tied on 20 Grand Slams each. Nadal was an overwhelming favourite heading into the summit clash against 23-year-old Ruud, who he had mentored during his early days at the famous Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, Spain. Rudd had admitted ahead of the final that he almost lost each time he came up against the Spaniard during practice matches at the academy. It was nothing different at the Court Philippe Chatrier in Paris on Sunday as Nadal once again proved why he remains the King of Clay. Nadal extended his flawless record in the French Open finals to 14-0. The 22-time Grand Slam champion has never lost in a final at the Roland Garros throughout his illustrious career. He has come up against some of the best in the business with the likes of Djokovic, Federer and Stan Wawrinka among others trying to stop him in a French Open final. However, the Spaniard has managed to outclass them all to create an unparalleled legacy at the Roland Garros. All hail the King #RolandGarros | @RafaelNadal pic.twitter.com/jIOvOirGgN — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 5, 2022 × Also Read: WATCH - Swiatek receives standing ovation for 'Stay strong Ukraine' message after French Open win Rafael Nadal - Oldest men's champion in French Open history Ahead of the much-awaited final, Nadal had no second thoughts in his mind when he was asked if he would give up a potential 22nd Grand Slam title for a new foot. The Spaniard, who has been dealing with a chronic injury in his left foot for quite a while now, said he would 'prefer to lose the final' against Ruud for a new foot as it would keep him happy for the rest of his life. Despite battling a serious injury and in the final lap of his career, Nadal remains a force to reckon with on clay courts and has now become the oldest men's champion in French Open history by winning the title at the age of 36. 14 out of his 22 Grand Slams have come at the Roland Garros, showcasing his incredible dominance at the tournament. The stage is yours again, @RafaelNadal#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/Nhp3e6wrwV — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 5, 2022 × Also Read: Casper Ruud - The Nadal Academy trainee up against his mentor in French Open showdown Nadal dominated the proccedings from the word go in the final against Ruud and clinched the first set 6-3 inside 51 minutes before taking second set 6-3. He was trailing 3-1 in the second set after double faulting on break point but was quick to bounce back and get the better of Ruud, who was clearly struggling to battle his nerves in his very first meeting with Nadal so far in his career. Ruud, the first man from his country to reach a Grand Slam final, was a no match for the tenacity of the Spaniard, who has known and dominated the competition so well over the years. Nadal was 19 when he won his first title at the Roland Garros in 2005 and 17 years later, he still remains untouchable in the competition. In what is a testament to his longevity, Nadal has not only shown he can still be one of the best in the world despite carrying a serious niggle, but has also achieved several feats on his way to his 22nd Grand Slam title. 2022 is the firt time Nadal has won the Australian Open and French Open in the same year.

Ruthless Rafael Nadal thrashes Casper Ruud to win 14th French Open crown, clinches 22nd Grand Slam title

<p>Casper Ruud will be up against his mentor Rafael Nadal in the men's singles final of the French Open 2022 on Sunday (June 05). Rudd has so far won six titles in his career, five of which have come on clay. He has an exceptional game for the claycourt and has been one of the most consistent players in this year's French Open. However, the Norweigan is set to play the biggest game of his career so far in the summit clash against Nadal on Sunday as he will be tasked to stop the raging Spaniard, who has been invincible at the Roland Garros.</p>

<p>Nadal, one of the greatest of all time, has dominated at French Open over the years and is yet to lose a final at Roland Garros. He has not lost once in 13 final appearances so far in the prestigious competition and will be bidding for a 14th title at the Court Philippe Chatrier on Sunday.</p>

<p>If he manages to win the trophy, it will also be a record-extending 22nd Grand Slam title for Nadal, further extending his lead over arch-rivals Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer, who are both tied on 20 titles each. But standing in between him and the 22nd Grand Slam crown will be Ruud, who is the first man from his country to reach a Grand Slam singles final.</p>

<p>Several greats in the past, including the likes of Federer, Djokovic and Stan Wawrinka among others have tried to stop Nadal in a French Open final. However, they have all failed with the Spaniard maintaining a perfect 13-0 record. But Ruud will have some advantage this time around having played against Nadal several times at his academy.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/id-prefer-to-lose-the-final-rafael-nadal-ready-to-sacrifice-22nd-grand-slam-title-for-new-left-foot-485045">'I'd prefer to lose the final': Rafael Nadal ready to sacrifice 22nd Grand Slam title for new left foot</a></p>

<p>Not many know, but the Norweigan used to train at Nadal's academy in Manacor as a teenager and played several practice games against the Spanish icon. Ruud will be hoping to bring all his experience to use in the final against Nadal with his maiden Grand Slam title in sight.</p>

<p><strong>Casper Ruud - The Rafa Nadal Academy graduate</strong></p>

<p>Ruud trained under Nadal and got to learn the tricks and trade of te sport from him after he was sent to the Rafa Nadal Academy in 2018. The academy is run by Nadal's former coach and his uncle Tony along with the other members of his family and team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ruud's father Christian Ruud had revealed how his son got a chance to train at Nadal's academy and also stated that they enjoy a great relationship with the coaches and staff at the academy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When Casper Ruud was [a teenager], Carlos Costa came to me during the French Open and was wondering if he wanted to come [to the Rafa Nadal Academy] and try it out," Christian Ruud said. "It was a big step for us. We are very happy with our relationship with them, and hope it will continue for many years," Ruud's father had recalled in an interview.</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BS1IJ8kDHTW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Casper Ruud (@casperruud)</a></p>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-iga-swiatek-receives-standing-ovation-for-stay-strong-ukraine-message-after-french-open-win-485278">WATCH: Swiatek receives standing ovation for 'Stay strong Ukraine' message after French Open win</a></p>

<p>Talking about training with Nadal at his academy in&nbsp;Manacor, Ruud said he almost always got beaten by the Spaniard in practice matches between the duo. However, the Norweigan warned his mentor that it won't be his disciple but his opponent who would turn up against him at the French Open final on Sunday.</p>

<p>"We have played some practice sets (at the academy). And, yeah, it's been, I don't know honestly, but (Nadal)&nbsp;always pretty much has always beaten me. There's been some close sets, 7-6, 7-5, but it always goes his favor. But it's because we are playing in the academy and I want to be nice to him and give him (the win)," Ruud joked after beating Marin Cilic in the semi-final.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Casper Ruud will be up against his mentor Rafael Nadal in the men's singles final of the French Open 2022 on Sunday (June 05). Rudd has so far won six titles in his career, five of which have come on clay.

Casper Ruud will be up against his mentor Rafael Nadal in the men's singles final of the French Open 2022 on Sunday (June 05). Rudd has so far won six titles in his career, five of which have come on clay. He has an exceptional game for the claycourt and has been one of the most consistent players in this year's French Open. However, the Norweigan is set to play the biggest game of his career so far in the summit clash against Nadal on Sunday as he will be tasked to stop the raging Spaniard, who has been invincible at the Roland Garros. Nadal, one of the greatest of all time, has dominated at French Open over the years and is yet to lose a final at Roland Garros. He has not lost once in 13 final appearances so far in the prestigious competition and will be bidding for a 14th title at the Court Philippe Chatrier on Sunday. If he manages to win the trophy, it will also be a record-extending 22nd Grand Slam title for Nadal, further extending his lead over arch-rivals Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer, who are both tied on 20 titles each. But standing in between him and the 22nd Grand Slam crown will be Ruud, who is the first man from his country to reach a Grand Slam singles final. Several greats in the past, including the likes of Federer, Djokovic and Stan Wawrinka among others have tried to stop Nadal in a French Open final. However, they have all failed with the Spaniard maintaining a perfect 13-0 record. But Ruud will have some advantage this time around having played against Nadal several times at his academy. Also Read: 'I'd prefer to lose the final': Rafael Nadal ready to sacrifice 22nd Grand Slam title for new left foot Not many know, but the Norweigan used to train at Nadal's academy in Manacor as a teenager and played several practice games against the Spanish icon. Ruud will be hoping to bring all his experience to use in the final against Nadal with his maiden Grand Slam title in sight. Casper Ruud - The Rafa Nadal Academy graduate Ruud trained under Nadal and got to learn the tricks and trade of te sport from him after he was sent to the Rafa Nadal Academy in 2018. The academy is run by Nadal's former coach and his uncle Tony along with the other members of his family and team. Ruud's father Christian Ruud had revealed how his son got a chance to train at Nadal's academy and also stated that they enjoy a great relationship with the coaches and staff at the academy. "When Casper Ruud was [a teenager], Carlos Costa came to me during the French Open and was wondering if he wanted to come [to the Rafa Nadal Academy] and try it out," Christian Ruud said. "It was a big step for us. We are very happy with our relationship with them, and hope it will continue for many years," Ruud's father had recalled in an interview. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Casper Ruud (@casperruud) × Also Read: WATCH: Swiatek receives standing ovation for 'Stay strong Ukraine' message after French Open win Talking about training with Nadal at his academy in Manacor, Ruud said he almost always got beaten by the Spaniard in practice matches between the duo. However, the Norweigan warned his mentor that it won't be his disciple but his opponent who would turn up against him at the French Open final on Sunday. "We have played some practice sets (at the academy). And, yeah, it's been, I don't know honestly, but (Nadal) always pretty much has always beaten me. There's been some close sets, 7-6, 7-5, but it always goes his favor. But it's because we are playing in the academy and I want to be nice to him and give him (the win)," Ruud joked after beating Marin Cilic in the semi-final.

Casper Ruud - The Nadal Academy trainee up against his mentor in French Open showdown

<p>Rafa Nadal has never lost a French Open final. A win on Sunday against first-time Grand Slam finalist Casper Ruud would deliver a record-extending 14th crown to the Spaniard and widen his lead in the men`s race for the most major titles.</p>

<p>Nadal, who turned 36 on Friday, overcame physical ailments and a dismal period of preparation to win the Australian Open in January to take his record-breaking 21st Grand Slam title, breaking a three-way tie with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.</p>

<p>If he lifts the Musketeers` Cup again on Sunday, it will be the first time the left-hander has taken the hardcourt major in Melbourne and the Roland Garros title in the same year and would keep him in contention for a calendar Grand Slam.</p>

<p>Nadal enjoys near-mythical status at Roland Garros, where a statue has already been erected in his honour. But standing in his way will be the eighth-seeded Norwegian, 13 years younger and the most consistent player on clay courts in the last three years.</p>

<p>Ruud has led the men`s Tour since the start of the 2020 season in clay-court wins, finals and titles and is the first man from his country to make a Grand Slam singles final.</p>

<p>"I have a huge respect for him. First of all in terms of a friend, he has a great character," Nadal said of Ruud, who has been training at his academy in Mallorca since 2018. "He`s a great guy, and he has a great family.</p>

<p>"As a player, of course, I respect him a lot. He did a lot of great things the last couple of years," he said. "It`s not a surprise."</p>

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<p>Nadal and Ruud have never played a competitive match before, but the duo have hit against each other plenty of times and the Norwegian says he has never won a practice set against his idol.</p>

<p>Ruud, who will rise to a career-high ranking of sixth on Monday, said he has already gone past his pre-season target of making a quarter-final at a major in 2022.</p>

<p>"It is amazing... He is the last player of the Big Three and the very top players in the world I have never played against," Ruud said.</p>

<p>"So I guess this is perfect timing and worth the wait. To finally play him in a Grand Slam final will be a special moment for me. Hopefully a little bit for him as well.</p>

<p>"He has played so many finals, but at least he is playing a student from his academy this time. So it is going to be a fun one hopefully."</p>

<p>Similar to his leadup to the Australian Open, Nadal arrived at Roland Garros with persisting fitness doubts after suffering a rib stress fracture and struggling with a chronic foot injury. He won his first three rounds at the claycourt Grand Slam in straight sets but then had to survive intense four-hour battles to beat Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime in five sets and arch-rival and 2021 champion Djokovic in four.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/id-prefer-to-lose-the-final-rafael-nadal-ready-to-sacrifice-22nd-grand-slam-title-for-new-left-foot-485045">&nbsp;'I'd prefer to lose the final': Rafael Nadal ready to sacrifice 22nd Grand Slam title for new left foot</a></p>

<p>Nadal, who would pass fellow Spaniard Andres Gimeno as the oldest Roland Garros men`s singles champion if he wins, had to dig deep again in a three-hour slugfest in the semi-final against Alexander Zverev before the German was forced to retire mid-match after injuring his ankle.</p>

<p>Chris Evert, who won seven of her 18 majors at Roland Garros, was unsure of Nadal`s physical condition for the final.</p>

<p>"It`s going to be really interesting," Eurosport expert Evert said after Nadal`s semi-final win on Friday.</p>

<p>"Rafa today against Zverev, even though he gave such a fight, I felt like he was a step slower than normal because he has had such big matches and drawn-out matches along the way, and I wonder which Rafa is going to show up on Sunday."</p>


Rafa Nadal has never lost a French Open final. A win on Sunday against first-time Grand Slam finalist Casper Ruud would deliver a record-extending 14th crown to the Spaniard and widen his lead in the men`s race for the most major titles.

Rafa Nadal has never lost a French Open final. A win on Sunday against first-time Grand Slam finalist Casper Ruud would deliver a record-extending 14th crown to the Spaniard and widen his lead in the men`s race for the most major titles. Nadal, who turned 36 on Friday, overcame physical ailments and a dismal period of preparation to win the Australian Open in January to take his record-breaking 21st Grand Slam title, breaking a three-way tie with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic. If he lifts the Musketeers` Cup again on Sunday, it will be the first time the left-hander has taken the hardcourt major in Melbourne and the Roland Garros title in the same year and would keep him in contention for a calendar Grand Slam. Nadal enjoys near-mythical status at Roland Garros, where a statue has already been erected in his honour. But standing in his way will be the eighth-seeded Norwegian, 13 years younger and the most consistent player on clay courts in the last three years. Ruud has led the men`s Tour since the start of the 2020 season in clay-court wins, finals and titles and is the first man from his country to make a Grand Slam singles final. "I have a huge respect for him. First of all in terms of a friend, he has a great character," Nadal said of Ruud, who has been training at his academy in Mallorca since 2018. "He`s a great guy, and he has a great family. "As a player, of course, I respect him a lot. He did a lot of great things the last couple of years," he said. "It`s not a surprise." Also Read: WATCH: Swiatek receives standing ovation for 'Stay strong Ukraine' message after French Open win Nadal and Ruud have never played a competitive match before, but the duo have hit against each other plenty of times and the Norwegian says he has never won a practice set against his idol. Ruud, who will rise to a career-high ranking of sixth on Monday, said he has already gone past his pre-season target of making a quarter-final at a major in 2022. "It is amazing... He is the last player of the Big Three and the very top players in the world I have never played against," Ruud said. "So I guess this is perfect timing and worth the wait. To finally play him in a Grand Slam final will be a special moment for me. Hopefully a little bit for him as well. "He has played so many finals, but at least he is playing a student from his academy this time. So it is going to be a fun one hopefully." Similar to his leadup to the Australian Open, Nadal arrived at Roland Garros with persisting fitness doubts after suffering a rib stress fracture and struggling with a chronic foot injury. He won his first three rounds at the claycourt Grand Slam in straight sets but then had to survive intense four-hour battles to beat Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime in five sets and arch-rival and 2021 champion Djokovic in four. Also Read: 'I'd prefer to lose the final': Rafael Nadal ready to sacrifice 22nd Grand Slam title for new left foot Nadal, who would pass fellow Spaniard Andres Gimeno as the oldest Roland Garros men`s singles champion if he wins, had to dig deep again in a three-hour slugfest in the semi-final against Alexander Zverev before the German was forced to retire mid-match after injuring his ankle. Chris Evert, who won seven of her 18 majors at Roland Garros, was unsure of Nadal`s physical condition for the final. "It`s going to be really interesting," Eurosport expert Evert said after Nadal`s semi-final win on Friday. "Rafa today against Zverev, even though he gave such a fight, I felt like he was a step slower than normal because he has had such big matches and drawn-out matches along the way, and I wonder which Rafa is going to show up on Sunday."

French Open 2022 final: Rafael Nadal's bid for more Roland Garros history meets Casper Ruud's resistance

<p>Rafael Nadal said he is ready to sacrifice a record-extending 22nd Grand Slam title in exchange for a new foot. Nadal has been playing in the ongoing French Open 2022 with a chronic left foot injury which he believes can prove fatal and end his illustrious career any day. However, the great Spaniard, who has been en epitome of grit and determination over the years, has made it to yet another final despite the injury. Nadal will take on Casper Rudd in the men's singles final of the French Open 2022 on Sunday (June 05).</p>

<p>It has been far from an easy ride for Nadal in the French Open this year. It's a tournament that the 21-time Grand Slam winner has dominated over the years, however, playing with an injury means he is always at risk of worsening it at the fag end of his career. Nadal said he would 'prefer to lose the final' against Rudd in exchange for a new left foot.</p>

<p>Ahead of the final against Rudd at French Open 2022, Nadal said a new foot would allow to live him happily for the rest of his life and that is worth more than a record-extending 22nd Grand Slam title. Nadal had become the first man to complete 21 Grand Slam titles after winning the Australian Open this year.</p>

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<p>"Without a doubt, I'd prefer to lose the final," said Nadal, who turned 36 on Friday when asked about if his foot injury. "My opinion does not change. A new foot would allow me to be happier in my daily life," he added.</p>

<p>"Winning is very nice and gives you an adrenaline rush, but it's temporary and then you have to go on living. I have a life ahead of me and in the future I would love to play sports with my friends. My happiness goes ahead of any title," explained the 21-time Grand Slam champion.</p>

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<p>On Friday, Nadal won the semi-final at French Open 2022 against German Alexander Zverev, who was forced to retire from the game after a horrific ankle injury. The German left the court in a wheelchair screaming in pain and agony before returning to concede the semi-final. Nadal and Zverev were seen embracing each other after the German's injury.</p>

<p>In the other semi-final, Norway's Casper Rudd got the better of Marin Cilic to enter the final. He will now face Nadal in the summit clash for the elusive title in what can prove to be one of the toughest games of his career.</p>


Rafael Nadal said he is ready to sacrifice a record-extending 22nd Grand Slam title in exchange for a new foot. Nadal has been playing in the ongoing French Open 2022 with a chronic left foot injury which he believes can prove fatal and end his illustrious career any day.

Rafael Nadal said he is ready to sacrifice a record-extending 22nd Grand Slam title in exchange for a new foot. Nadal has been playing in the ongoing French Open 2022 with a chronic left foot injury which he believes can prove fatal and end his illustrious career any day. However, the great Spaniard, who has been en epitome of grit and determination over the years, has made it to yet another final despite the injury. Nadal will take on Casper Rudd in the men's singles final of the French Open 2022 on Sunday (June 05). It has been far from an easy ride for Nadal in the French Open this year. It's a tournament that the 21-time Grand Slam winner has dominated over the years, however, playing with an injury means he is always at risk of worsening it at the fag end of his career. Nadal said he would 'prefer to lose the final' against Rudd in exchange for a new left foot. Ahead of the final against Rudd at French Open 2022, Nadal said a new foot would allow to live him happily for the rest of his life and that is worth more than a record-extending 22nd Grand Slam title. Nadal had become the first man to complete 21 Grand Slam titles after winning the Australian Open this year. Also Read: Woman protestor disrupts French Open semi-final, ties herself to the net "Without a doubt, I'd prefer to lose the final," said Nadal, who turned 36 on Friday when asked about if his foot injury. "My opinion does not change. A new foot would allow me to be happier in my daily life," he added. "Winning is very nice and gives you an adrenaline rush, but it's temporary and then you have to go on living. I have a life ahead of me and in the future I would love to play sports with my friends. My happiness goes ahead of any title," explained the 21-time Grand Slam champion. Also Read: It's human to feel sorry for Zverev, says Nadal after injury ends German's French Open bid On Friday, Nadal won the semi-final at French Open 2022 against German Alexander Zverev, who was forced to retire from the game after a horrific ankle injury. The German left the court in a wheelchair screaming in pain and agony before returning to concede the semi-final. Nadal and Zverev were seen embracing each other after the German's injury. In the other semi-final, Norway's Casper Rudd got the better of Marin Cilic to enter the final. He will now face Nadal in the summit clash for the elusive title in what can prove to be one of the toughest games of his career.

'I'd prefer to lose the final': Rafael Nadal ready to sacrifice 22nd Grand Slam title for new left foot