5 Memorable Matches at Roland Garros

#4 Rafael Nadal vs. Roger Federer, Semi-final, 2005

Rafael Nadal

The epic rivalry between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal was kicked off in this match, and it was the first time they met in a Grand Slam tournament. Their head-to-head record was 1-1 before this match.

This was as much a battle of the minds as a physical one. Nadal was a favourite to win the tournament considering the spectacular record he had till then. Federer was World No. 1, looking to win the only Grand Slam that had evaded him till then.

But Nadal was in good form and Federer made too many unforced errors. Nadal broke Federer's serve nine times and went on to defeat Federer 6-3, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 in a riveting semi-final match. It was a perfect way for Nadal to celebrate his 19th birthday. It was also one of those rare matches where Federer had some emotional outbursts!

His forehand also did not unleash hell like it usually does. He hit too many of them long. Nadal sealed his victory when Federer hit a forehand long in the last point. Nadal went on to win the championship that year and added nine more to his kitty.

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