Roger Federer’s former coach defends Rafael Nadal’s 13 French Open titles record and calls it “madness” to consider it ‘a flaw’

Rafael Nadal lifted his 20th Grand Slam title earlier this month. He vanquished World No.1 Novak Djokovic 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 in the finals of French Open 2020 to do so. Nadal has maintained dominance in the grounds of Roland Garros ever since he broke out on the scene. 

In addition, he lifted his first French Open title upon his debut. The Spaniard has only lost in Paris twice throughout the course of his entire career. Sometimes, Nadal is discounted on account of this very feat.

Since, the majority of Rafa’s Grand Slam titles have come from Roland Garros, he is considered by some to be a one-trick pony. However, the truth couldn’t be further away from this. 

As of today, Rafa has more titles than Novak Djokovic at the U.S Open. He has also finished as the year-end No.1 for 5 years. The 34-year-old couldn’t have done this if he wasn’t reaping significant results on other surfaces. Moreover, he defeated World No.1 at the time Roger Federer in 2008 to lay claim to his 1st Wimbledon trophy. He won the Queen’s Club title the week before as well. 

To the people who wish to write off Nadal, the legendary coach Paul Annacone has a simple message. Annacone is the former coach of the likes of tennis greats, Roger Federer and Pete Sampras.

In an interview with Tennis Magazine Italia, Annacone said, “I understand the concept (of GOAT). But just considering that having won a Grand Slam 13 times could be a flaw in some way is madness. Indeed, I believe it can be considered the greatest achievement in the history of the sport. It is a goal that I cannot even think can be beaten.”

Clay stands to be his most successful surface for Rafa, he is almost unbeatable on clay. However, his achievements on hard-courts and grass courts can’t be pushed to the shadows.