Rafael Nadal wins ninth French Open

Rafael Nadal, the top-ranked player in the world, hits a patented top-spin forehard return against Novak Djokovic in the championship match of the French Open on Sunday.

(Darko Vojinovic / Associated Press)

June 8, 2014 12 AM PT

Rafael Nadal extends his record-setting performance at the French Open by defeating Novak Djokovic in four sets to claim his ninth title at Roland Garros, including his fifth in a row.

Rafael Nadal hoists the winner’s trophy after defeating Novak Djokovic in four sets in the French Open championship match on Sunday.

(Darko Vojinovic / Associated Press)

Rafael Nadal is congratulated by six-time French Open winner Bjorn Borg of Sweden after winning an unprecedented ninth title at Roland Garros on Sunday in Paris.

(Darko Vojinovic / Associated Press)

Novak Djokovic reacts following a point during his four-set loss in the French Open final against Rafael Nadal on Sunday. Djokovic, who has won six Grand Slam events, is seeking his first championship at Roland Garros.

(Michel Euler / Associated Press)

Rafael Nadal tracks down a shot against Novak Djokovic in the French Open final on Sunday.

(Michel Euler / Associated Press)

Novak Djokovic looks toward his coaches after losing a point against Rafael Nadal in the French Open final on Sunday.

(Michel Spingler / Associated Press)

Rafael Nadal, who is 66-1 during his career in the French Open, prepares to serve against Novak Djokovic in the championship match on Sunday.

(Darko Vojinovic / Associated Press)

Novak Djokovic shows his athleticism and flexibility in tracking down a shot by Rafael Nadal in the French Open final on Sunday.

(David Vincent / Associated Press)

Novak Djokovic, left, and Rafael Nadal pose for photographers before a grueling four-set championship match in the French Open on Sunday.

(Michel Euler / Associated Press)