French Open 2022: 'King of Clay’ Rafael Nadal favourite to win Men's title; Roger Federer probably the greatest athlete of all time, says Purav Raja

Rafael Nadal clinched his second Australian Open title earlier this year, 13 years after winning his first at the Rod Laver arena (2009). That made him the first men's player in history to win 21 Grand Slam titles, moving one ahead of Novak Djokovic. Rafa is currently playing on what is hands down his favourite surface - clay and at his favourite tournament - the French Open, and will be itching to lay his hands on title number 14 at Roland Garros. Nadal has overall won the French Open title 13 times - 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 - in his career. He last lifted the trophy at Roland Garros in 2020 when he defeated Novak Djokovic 6–0, 6–2, 7–5 in the summit clash. This year though it's Djokovic who is the defending champion and not Rafa. Indian tennis player Purav Raja feels Nadal will be able to snatch the crown back from Djoko this year. TimesofIndia.com caught up with Purav to talk about the French Open 2022 title favourites, Rafa, future of Indian tennis and more.

(Reuters Photo)Who do you see as the favourite to win the men's singles title at the French Open this time and why?I see Rafa still as the favourite to win the Roland Garros title this time. I see him as the favourite because he has won it and dominated the clay courts so many times. I am sure he is going to win it again. Rafa always rises to the occasion. Rafa at the French Open is a completely different kettle of fish. We all should understand that he is the overwhelming favourite on that surface and in that arena. What does Nadal do to make the clay-court game look so easy?I don't think he makes it look easy. He is just better at that surface than other people. He is the king of clay. His game style is so