NADAL is the King of Clay as he takes record eighth title

RAFA Nadal took a record-breaking eighth French Open title when he swept aside fellow Spaniard David Ferrer at Roland Garros. The Mallorcan confirmed his unofficial title as the King of Clay with the title that lifted him into top position as holding the most Grand Slams from a single tournament.

It takes him above Pete Samprass and Roger Federer who both hold seven Wimbledon titles in the Open era.

As expected the 27-year-old was just too good for Ferrer, even though his opponent had not dropped a set all tournament. Nadal who, despite his dominance over clay, was only third seed, dominated the match to win 6-3 6-2 6-3 in two hours and 16 minutes.

That made it an incredible seven titles from nine tournaments since he returned from injury.

He only made his come-back in February after seven months out following a knee injury.

Nadal showed he had lost none of the desire for titles that has seen him win 12 Grand Slams and an Olympic Gold. But the win was not enough to stop him slip a place in the ATP rankings to number five, one behind Davis Ferrer.