Rafael Nadal (Related Stories)

Rafael Nadal stories in the SI Vault

Come Se Dice 'Real Deal'?By Jon Wertheim, May 23, 2005In a sport famous for eating its young, Spanish phenom Rafael Nadal looks like he's here for good. The French Open may prove it.

Game On: Roger Vs. Rafael By Jon Wertheim, June 13, 2005With his conquest of Roger Federer in Paris, teen sensation Rafael Nadal announced the onset of a fascinating new tennis rivalry. Next episode, Wimbledon.

A King Ruled By A Prince By Jon Wertheim, June 19, 2006Second-ranked Rafael Nadal defended his French Open title by continuing his domination of No. 1 Roger Federer and spoiling his rival's Grand Slam bid.

Trey Bien By S.L. Price, June 18, 2007Rafael Nadal and Justine Henin once again ruled the French Open, winning their third straight titles in grand fashion on Roland Garros's terre battue.

Courtly Rivals By Jon Wertheim, August 27, 2007Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are as different as two fierce foes could be, but in one thing they're identical: Neither man will take a verbal shot at the other.

The Spin Master By Jon Wertheim, July 14, 2008Imposing his game on grass, Rafael Nadal ripped powerful topspin and sidespin shots to dethrone Roger Federer in a Wimbledon marathon that was the greatest match of all time.

The Takedown By S.L. Price, May 18, 2009How did Rafael Nadal humble the great Roger Federer and take his No. 1 ranking? It wasn't a simple triumph of will or youth or brute strength. It was the tennis, stupid.

Too Hard On Himself By Jon Wertheim, June 29, 2009Rafael Nadal's physically taxing style of play is starting to catch up with him.