Nadal took his career record at Roland Garros to 14-0

The 20-year-old put the victory over his debut win last year as he was facing "the best player in history".

Nadal won 1-6 6-1 6-4 7-6 (7-4) to retain the title he won as a teenager in 2005, and extend his winning streak on clay to 60 matches.

"This is a fantastic victory and an incredible moment in my career as a tennis player," said Nadal.

Highlights: Nadal beats Federer to win French Open

"Federer is the best player in history - no other player has ever had such quality.

"If I look at the rankings and at the difference of points between us, he is definitely the number one simply because he plays very well overall.

"Since I was born I've never seen such a complete and great player on the circuit.

"So even if I won the French Open again I cannot say that I am better than him. For now we cannot be really compared."

Nadal now turns his attentions to Wimbledon, beginning this week on his least favourite surface at the Stella Artois Championships at Queens.

"It's hard to adapt to the grass in just two days. If I lose, well, never mind because I know that I am not perfect on that surface," he said.