The Sport Matrix: Monday 10 June 2013

Emotional Nadal makes Roland Garros history

Rafael Nadal eased to an eighth French Open title in nine years at Roland Garros yesterday, overcoming Spanish compatriot David Ferrer in straight sets, as well as a number of interruptions from the crowd.

The 27-year-old took the crown 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 against an outclassed Ferrer, above, to become the first player to win a Slam title eight times - his only defeat in nine years coming in the fourth round against Robin Soderling in 2009. His success follows a seven-month break due to injury.

“You don’t know whether you will have the chance to come back,” he said. “That makes this very special.” MORE

Vettel stretches his title lead in Canada

Reigning champion Sebastian Vettel won his third race of the season in Montreal last night, leading Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton home in the Canadian GP. The German leads Alonso by 36 points in the overall standings, with Kimi Raikkonen eight further back. MORE

Kiwis scramble home in Cardiff

New Zealand edged Sri Lanka by one wicket in their opening Champions Trophy match against Sri Lanka. Set 139 to win – Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara making 68 – the Kiwis lost wickets at regular intervals before reaching their target. MORE

Trading Leather puts down marker

Trading Leather joined the roster of those set to square up against Irish Derby favourite Ruler Of The World at the Curragh after winning the 10-furlong Silver Stakes with conspicuous ease.

Froome cruises to Dauphiné victory

Chris Froome cruised to overall victory in the Critérium du Dauphiné to underline his status as favourite for the Tour de France. “I’m going to do everything possible to win,” the Team Sky rider said after finishing second in yesterday’s final stage. “But in cycling, nothing is guaranteed.” MORE

Review is needed, admits Bernstein

The FA chairman, David Bernstein, says a review of the selection process is needed following England’s poor showing in the European Under-21 Championship. Several players missed out on the tournament after being selected for senior action. MORE

Gatland fears Lions are undercooked

British and Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland fears his side may be underprepared for the Test series with Australia next week. “We’re two matches light on this tour,” he said ahead of the opener in Brisbane in 12 days. “Another couple of games would have been perfect, but we don’t have them.” MORE

Returning pair inspire Saints

The returning duo James Roby and Jonny Lomax helped a rejuvenated St Helens return to form yesterday as they overcame Bradford 30-18. The hosts were dominant against an obdurate Bulls side, who fell behind Saints in the table. MORE

Opinion: James Lawton

The wounds sustained by Stuart Pearce’s side are beyond the healing powers of any one messiah. English football is a game gorged on cash and starved of the vision enshrined in places across Europe. MORE

Serena: I want it more than anyone

Serena Williams has attributed her continuing form to a ferocious will to win. “It’s fair to say that, throughout my career, I’ve really wanted it more than any other human being on the planet,” the American said after winning the French Open at the weekend – her 16th Slam. MORE

Rose ready for debut major title

Justin Rose believes he is well placed to secure a debut major as he prepares for this week’s US Open. “I stand on the tee with anybody and feel good,” the 32-year-old said. “To be among the favourites to win events shows my game is right there.”