Nadal's achievements by the tender age of 22 already entitled him to be regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time.

Even as a teenager the Majorcan, born on June 3rd 1986, had established himself as one of the finest clay-court players the world had ever seen, but in 2008 and 2009 he proved beyond doubt he was a champion on every surface.

By the time Wimbledon came around in 2008, Nadal had won the French Open in four consecutive years and had never lost a match in the main draw at Roland Garros.

His thrilling five-set triumph over Roger Federer in the final at the All England Club - avenging his defeats in the previous two years - was the launchpad for him to dethrone the Swiss star as the world No 1.

In 2009 Nadal added the Australian Open to the set of Grand Slams in which he had mastered arch-rival Federer, coming out on top in another exciting five-setter just two days after he and Fernando Verdasco had battled out a semi-final lasting over five hours - the longest match in the history of the tournament.

His list of other achievements included a singles gold medal at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, a 13th Masters series title at Indian Wells in March 2009 and helping Spain to the Davis Cup in 2004 and 2008.

Coached by his uncle Toni Nadal, Rafael is renowned for his fierce groundstrokes, pace, athleticism and stamina and a unique dress sense on court, favouring vest-style tops, three-quarter length trousers and a headband.