Roger Federer did Rafael Nadal a favor by defeating Novak (41-0) Djokovic in Friday’s French Open semifinal.

Nadal did not return the favor in Sunday’s French Open Final.

Instead he reverted to form, beating Federer for the fourth straight time in the tournament’s final round. Via the New York Times:

Rafael Nadal won his sixth French Open, tying Bjorn Borg’s record, with a 7-5, 7-6(3), 5-7, 6-1 victory over Roger Federer, his primary rival and the winner of 16 Grand Slam tournaments.

Nadal started slowly before winning five games in a row to capture the first set, then seemed ready to cruise to his 10th Grand Slam singles victory. But Federer, trying to beat Nadal for the first time in four finals at Roland Garros, surged back behind the wide support of fans at Court Philippe Chatrier. Nadal rolled through the fourth set, putting all his clay courts skills on exhibition.

“Congratulations, Roger, for this fantastic tournament,” Nadal said during the trophy presentation, a familiar end to two weeks at Roland Garros. “I think he do very, very well. Sorry for today.”

Classic Rafa, both during and after the match. Now all’s that’s left is to end Djokovic’s four-final winning streak against him.

Strawberries and cream Novak, anyone?