Rafael Nadal has won 22 Grand Slams, but one is much more special to him than any other.
Nadal had a profound effect on the ATP Tour, becoming one of the most beloved stars in the whole sport for his dominance.
The Spaniard was unbeatable on clay, winning 14 Roland Garros titles on the surface between 2005 and 2022.
Nadal picked one of his Roland Garros titles as his favourite Grand Slam victory due to his defiant return from injury.
Rafael Nadal picked Roland Garros 2006 as favourite Grand Slam win
When asked for his favourite moment from his career, Nadal was quick to pick his Roland Garros victory from 2006.
“Because it was the first year after the foot injury,” said Nadal in an interview with Spanish publication AS.
“Really, and I don’t want to make an epic story, it’s true, we didn’t think I would play tennis at a competitive level again,” he added.
The star suffered from Muller-Weiss Syndrome, a rare condition that affects the adult navicular bone throughout his career.
“I remember that one, because we went through many bad times,” continued the 22-time Grand Slam champion.
“The more advanced injuries in your career, when you have already achieved a lot, are tolerated in one way or are seen from a slightly different perspective.”
Nadal’s Roland Garros victory in 2006 was the second of his career and part of his four-year streak at the tournament.
Rafael Nadal gives his thoughts on the Roland Garros final
Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz’s French Open final has been widely acclaimed, with several pundits calling it one of the best matches ever.
Nadal has shared his thoughts on the final calling it ‘a match for the ages’ in an interview with ATP Tour.
“I’m very happy for Carlos,” said Nadal. “It was a spectacular final, very exciting. Ending up with the cup after Sinner was so close to taking it for so long… I’m very happy for him.”
Nadal was given an emotional tribute on the opening Sunday of Roland Garros after his retirement from the sport in 2024.