Federer wins first French Open

Roger Federer fulfilled his dream of achieving a career grand slam on Sunday, defeating Robin Soderling in straight sets in the 2009 French Open final.

The 6-1, 7-6, 6-4 victory also saw Federer draw level with Pete Sampras' record of 14  grand slam titles. Many will rate Federer’s achievement as the more impressive, given that Sampras never managed to win the French Open during his career.

The match saw a determined Federer dominate Soderling from start to finish, putting in a performance reminiscent of his comprehensive defeat of Andy Murray in the final of the 2008 US Open. Federer moved Soderling around the court at will, and used the drop shot to devastating effect.

"It was probably my greatest ever victory, I was under big pressure. But I did it and it's phenomenal," Federer said to the crowd before claiming the French Open trophy. "I think that now and until the end of my career, I can really play with my mind at peace and no longer hear that I've never won Roland Garros."

With Rafael Nadal’s participation in the Wimbledon Open Championships in doubt Roger Federer will have an excellent opportunity to set the record for most grand slam victories in London next month.