French Open: Rafael Nadal, Simona Halep, other greats shine
By Harry Floyd
Action at the 2018 French Open comes to a close. Several veteran greats and young stars in both men’s and women’s singles tennis impress.
French Open play did not fail to impress this year. History has been made on many levels. Outside contenders, such as Italian Marco Cecchinato, went on unexpected runs and shocked the field. Cecchinato would ultimately see his time come to an end against Austrian star Dominic Thiem in the semifinals. Thiem advanced, finding himself face to face with the King of Clay Rafael Nadal in the men’s singles final. Nadal was feeling right at home at Roland Garros this year. His semifinals meeting against veteran great Juan Martin del Potro brought him a major challenge. Nadal ousts the 2009 US Open champion in straight sets though, cementing his place in the finals.
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After going up two sets on Thiem, an 11th Roland Garros title appeared in sight for Rafa. Clay court season, with the culmination being at the French Open, has always been his best stretch of tennis year to year on the ATP World Tour. He came up just short of an Australian Open title earlier this year, falling to eventual runner-up Marin Cilic in the quarterfinals. Roger Federer would win a title at Melbourne Park yet again, but then skipped the clay court season, giving way to Nadal. The King of Clay bounced back strong in the weeks leading into play at Roland Garros.
Rafael Nadal defeats Dominic Thiem 6-4 6-3 6-2 to win the 2018 French Open. The King of Clay takes home his 11th career title at the Grand Slam while also defending his 2017 performance.
Other highlights of note include Novak Djokovic reaching the quarterfinals at the French Open. He is continuing to return from injury, looking for momentum on the ATP World Tour. American John Isner fared well, ultimately falling to Del Potro in the round of 16. There is plenty more to take in as we continue to wrap up action at Roland Garros.