Reuters

Nadal beats Federer in Monte Carlo

Updated 09.18 Mon Apr 28 2008

Keywords: rafael nadal, monte carlo masters, roger federer, sport, tennis

Rafael Nadal proved he is the world's best tennis player on clay by beating Roger Federer in the final of the Monte Carlo Masters.

Nadal won 7-5 7-5 to win the title for the fourth year in a row, fighting back from 4-0 down in the second set.

"I just tried to put pressure on his backhand when I had the chance" - Rafael Nadal

Nadal said: "I just tried to put pressure on his backhand when I had the chance, tried to be aggressive and tried to have a good long return.

"I am very happy, for sure. It is a very special moment for me. I played all the tournaments this year very well but I didn't play the last match of every tournament well because I lost easily in Australia, Indian Wells and Miami."

Nadal has beaten Federer in seven of their eight matches on clay but only twice in seven matches on other surfaces.

Federer said: "He's a tough player on clay. Maybe my attacking game did not work so well. I am coming back strong and am happy the way things are now."

Nadal is the clear favourite to win the French Open next month for the fourth year in a row.