‘Rafa’ nearing legend status: McEnroe

Former American tennis star John McEnroe believes that Rafael Nadal is destined to finish as one of the undisputed legends of tennis.

London: Former American tennis star John McEnroe believes that World No. 1 Rafael Nadal is destined to finish as one of the undisputed legends of tennis.

Nadal will be contesting his fourth successive Wimbledon final at the All England Club on Sunday."This guy (Nadal) is a chance to be there with Federer, Sampras and Rod Laver. He plays it down, but let`s face it: he`s 14 (wins) and seven (losses) against Federer. Federer`s the greatest player off all time, so if this guy stays healthy for another couple of years, how can you not put him in the same league as those guys?" The Sydney Morning Herald quoted McEnroe, as saying. "My worry is simply health. A week ago, we were saying: `how on earth is this guy going to finish this tournament?` Now we`re saying: `how in the world can you beat this guy?`" he added. Nadal was ranked World No. 2, behind Roger Federer for a record 160 consecutive weeks before earning the top spot, which he then held from August 18, 2008 to July 5, 2009.He regained the World No.1 ranking on June 7 after winning his fifth French Open title. His success on clay has earned him the nickname "The King of Clay", and has prompted many experts to call him the greatest clay court player of all time. The 24-year-old will play giant-killing Czech Tomas Berdych in the final. ANI