Rafael Nadal Wins His 13th French Open Title, Iga Świątek Wins on Women's Side

October 12, 2020
is first Polish player to win a Grand Slam singles title.
Sports NewsTennis
Rafael Nadal Wins His 13th French Open Title, Iga Świątek Wins on Women's SideRafael Nadal Wins His 13th French Open Title, Iga Świątek Wins on Women's Side
Source: Charles Platiau/Reuters

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?