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I'll never knock Federer off top spot, says Nadal
(China Daily)
Updated: 2006-03-06 05:48
DUBAI: Rafael Nadal broke down in tears after his sensational Dubai Open
triumph over Roger Federer but admitted that he will probably never displace the
Swiss superstar from the world No 1 spot.
Rafael Nadal of Spain bites his trophy after
defeating Roger Federer of Switzerland in their final match at the Dubai
Open tennis tournament in United Arab Emirates March 4, 2006.
[Reuters] | The 19-year-old Spaniard clinched his
third win in four meetings with the triple Grand Slam title-holder when he won
the Dubai crown in a 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 victory here on Saturday.
It also brought to an end Federer's Open era record of 56 consecutive hard
court match wins.
But asked if he thought he could become world No 1 himself, Nadal answered:
"No! I don't have a chance. For me he's unbelievable. I will continue with my
comeback and I am just happy with that."
Nadal, who also beat Federer on his way to the French Open last year, is
still feeling his way back after a three-month absence caused by a worrying foot
injury.
The world No 2 said his tears at the end of the two hour final here were a
mark of relief as much as joy at his 13th career title.
He lay on his back, and then wept by the side of the court before paying
tribute to the man who has been described as potentially the greatest player
ever.
"To beat Roger is special," Nadal said. "I am so happy for this. I was crying
a little bit but that was because it has been difficult in the last three
months.
"I was crying a lot of times (during that time). So this comeback is special
for me. And so you can't control that."
Federer admitted the Spaniard was the better player on the day.
"We knew I would be the aggressive player and he would be the consistent
player," the world No 1 said.
"I made some mistakes but I am still pleased with my
game and Rafa was better on the day. It was a great effort by him and I think we
are going to have a fantastic rivalry."
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