Paris, June 09: Rafael Nadal said he played near to perfection in his 6-1 6-3 6-0 drubbing of world number one Roger Federer for his record-equalling fourth consecutive French Open title.
The second-seeded Spaniard, who is unbeaten on the Paris clay since his debut in 2005, prevailed after only one hour and 48 minutes against a clumsy top seed.
"I did not expect a match like this," Nadal told reporters.
"I think I played an almost perfect match. Roger played more mistakes than usual and I played more inside the court.”
"I improved a little bit since last year. I have more control of the points, I am more aggressive than usual."
The 22-year-old Mallorcan said he was now more of a complete player, having dropped fewer than two games per set en route to his 28th consecutive win in Paris.
"I play more inside the court, not just two metres behind the baseline," said Nadal.
"I improved my slice, I change more directions. I hit more flat shots, especially with the backhand."
Although his level of play suggested he could be a threat to Federer on grass and hardcourts, Nadal shrugged off comparisons with the world number one.
"I feel like the number two because I am the number two and I am closer to the number three than the number one," he said.
Nadal was respectful of his beaten opponent, refusing to celebrate in effusive fashion just after the match point.
"Even if I'm playing my best tennis, I don't win 6-1 6-3 6-0," he said.
"He did not play very well, otherwise this result would not have been possible.”
"I did not prepare (for any celebrations). Today it was tough for Roger, I had to show respect. I have a good relationship with him."
Nadal, who looks set to beat Borg's record of six Roland Garros titles, said the match turned his way for good in the seventh game of the second set.
On a break point, Federer anticipated a drop shot and, instead of playing it safe, went for a backhand winner which eventually ended into the net.
"I saved a very good point at 3-3. It was the game of the match," said Nadal.
Bureau Report
First Published: Monday, June 09, 2008, 00:00