Rafael Nadal received worldwide love and appreciation after winning the French Open 2020 title. From Roger Federer to Sachin Tendulkar, superstars from every field and sport have congratulated the Spaniard for his terrific performance. It was a special moment for the World No. 2 as he now has 20 Grand Slam titles.

Nadal has truly been an inspiration, not just for the younger generation but also for his contemporary players. Recently, the French professional tennis player Richard Gasquet paid tribute to Rafa. He posted a picture with Nadal on his Instagram story and called him a ‘legend’.

“No words for this legend @rafaelnadal,” wrote Gasquet on Instagram.

In the 17 matches so far between Gasquet and Nadal, the Frenchman has managed to win on just one occasion. Their last face-off was at the French Open 2018, where Nadal defeated Gasquet in straight sets. He eventually went on to win the tournament.

Richard Gasquet has always admired Rafael Nadal

Gasquet, right from the beginning, has had immense respect for the 13-time French Open winner. The two have even played against each other since they were teenagers.

In an interview in May 2020, Gasquet talked extensively about Nadal. He said that he got to know very quickly that the Spaniard would be an extraordinary player. The Frenchman admitted that Nadal’s hitting was monstrous even when he was a teenager.

The two first met at the 2005 Monte Carlo Masters. Both were 19 at that time. Gasquet earned the spot in the semi-finals of the tournament beating Roger Federer and was now up against Nadal. He regretted that he lost that match but witnessed a phenomenal Nadal. Soon, Rafael Nadal in the same year went on to lift the French Open title beating Gasquet again in the third round of the tournament.

Rafa has truly inspired a generation. Fans are looking forward to witnessing yet another Djokovic-Nadal final if he agrees to play at the Vienna Open 2020.

Also Read: Organizers are trying hard to convince Rafael Nadal to take part in the Vienna Open 2020