Sunday, February 1, 2009

Nadal takes Australian Open

Rafael Nadal defeated Roder Federer to win the Australian Open, 5-3, on Sunday.

The 22-year-old keeps the Grand Slam singles record, beating Federer 7-5, 3-6, 7-6 (3), 3-6, 6-2 in match that lasted four hours and 23 minutes.

Federer, a 27-year-old Swiss native, was attempting to equal Pete Sampras' 14 major titles. He has now lost to Nadal the last three times the two have met, according to The Associated Press.

Federer was visibly upset during the presentation, fighting back tears.

"Maybe I’ll try later. God, it’s killing me," Federer tearfully said. The tennis star did regain his composure to say, "You deserved it. You played a fantastic final."

After accepting the trophy, Nadal said to his opponent, "Roger, sorry for today. I really know how you feel right now. Remember, you’re a great champion, you’re one of the best in history."

Nadal became the first Spaniard to win the Australian Open.

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