Rafael Nadal Wins His 13th French Open Title, Iga Świątek Wins on Women's Side
The GIST: This weekend, Rafael Nadal hoisted his 13th (!!!) French Open (aka Roland-Garros) trophy, and fresh-faced newcomer 19-year-old Iga Świątek (pronounced SHVEE-ON-TIK) took the title on the women’s side. Très magnifique.
How’d Rafa do it?: Nadal defeated rival Novak Djokovic (pronounced JOKE-OH-VITCH) in straight sets en route to the title, meaning the King of Clay now holds an incredible 100-2 match record at the French Open. The final marked the 56th time Nadal and Djokovic have squared off, an incredible rivalry — but not the greatest in the history herstory of the sport.
- Nadal’s win also earned him his 20th career Grand Slam title, tying Roger Federer’s record and setting off another intense GOAT debate...men’s GOAT, of course.
And on the women’s side?: Newcomer Świątek swept world No. 4 Sofia Kenin in straight sets, making her the first Polish player to ever win a Grand Slam singles title. She’s also the youngest to win the French Open since nine-time Grand Slam champion Monica Seles lifted the trophy in 1992. Pretty good company.
- Świątek’s French Open performance was truly next-level. She won every single set she played, eliminating top players (including world No. 2 Simona Halep) on her way to the title.
- And now Świątek joins a slew of first-time Grand Slam title winners. Over the last 14 Grand Slam championships, nine first-time winners have been crowned. Are you not entertained?
