French Open 2019: Result from Roland Garros as Rafael Nadal beats Roger Federer
All the latest updates from Roland Garros
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Your support makes all the difference.Roger Federer has been knocked out by Rafael Nadal in the French Open semi-final in what might be one of the last occasions we see these two legends of tennis go head to head on such a major stage.
For both Federer, 37, and Nadal, 33, chances to add to their extraordinary haul of grand slam titles will not keep coming along forever, and Nadal did not pass up the opportunity.
Both players progressed serenely to the last four, each dropping only one set en route, and Nadal clinched the match in straight sets to reach the final. Re-live it live:
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Federer 3-5 Nadal* (40-30)
A big serve out wide by Rafa, and it's SET POINT after 49 minutes of gripping tennis.
Federer 3-5 Nadal* (40-40)
However, Nadal's backhand clips the top of the net and blows wide, and we're at deuce.
Federer 3-5 Nadal* (Ad Nadal)
Federer goes long with a backhand after a lengthy rally which undoubtedly favours Nadal.
Second set point.
*Federer 3-6 Nadal
SET TO NADAL, AND WHAT A WAY TO WIN IT!
A scintillating backhand crosscourt winner hits the line, and Rafa takes the first set 6-3.
Two sets from another French Open final, his 12th...
Work to do for Federer. Will the wind calm down, and who will that favour?
*Federer 3-6 Nadal (30-30)
A drop shot winner which barely bounces due to the wind gives Federer the first point, and Nadal forcing a volleyed error at 30-0.
But the shot of the match goes to Rafa here, with an exquisite backhand lob leaving Federer helpless.
Federer 3-6 1-0 Nadal*
Vital, vital hold for Federer.
The Swiss was more positive and aggressive there, with Nadal uncomfortable guiding a forehand into court near the net - it drifts wide.
We've already played an hour...
Federer 3-6 1-0 Nadal* (0-30)
Federer circles a mark on the baseline signalling Nadal's shot was long, and 0-15 soon turns to 0-30 as Federer somehow grinds out a point with the wind at his mercy!
That took a lot of adapting from both players. Crowd is raucous now.
Federer 3-6 1-0 Nadal* (15-40)
Federer completely misses his return at 0-30, but Rafa nets at 15-30 and it's TWO BREAK POINTS for Federer!
*Federer 3-6 2-0 Nadal
And on attempt number two, FEDERER BREAKS!
Nadal goes wide with a backhand, and a big fist pump from Federer.
2-0, big opportunity for Federer to take the initiative here.
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