Photos: Best shots from the 2014 French Open men's final

Once again, the King of Clay reigns in Paris, as Rafael Nadal beats Novak Djokovic, becoming the first man to win five straight French Open titles. His 14th

Once again, the King of Clay reigns in Paris, as Rafael Nadal beats Novak Djokovic, becoming the first man to win five straight French Open titles.

His 14th Grand Slam victory -- and ninth French Open title in 10 years -- ties him on the all-time list with Pete Sampras, and moves him just three behind Roger Federer's 17 Slam wins.

Whatever happens for the rest of the season, I must say I have done so much already since the beginning of the year," Nadal said. "Since I started my career, it's been ten years, and for ten years I have played many tournaments at a high level. [...] The fact that I won my ninth Roland Garros in a row is a very good thing. Mentally it really shows that I can play in a very consistent way for many months. You know, it's not just a oneweek preparation. You have to work hard and practice for days and weeks and months. To me, winning is the result, the equivalent of lots of effort; therefore, I feel more serene and personally I'm very satisfied."

Here are some of our favorite shots from Nadal's victory:

Nadal: A helpful Apple Store "Genius" insisted to me that Nadal does some sort of "black magic voodoo" on Paris' red clay. This photo does not dispel that theory. (Bob Martin/SI)

Nadal: Leaving it all on the court. (Bob Martin/SI)

Djokovic: The Serb started well and took the first set before a slight lapse cost him the second and the hot conditions undermined him for the rest of the match. (Bob Martin/SI)

Nadal: Dirtiest socks in the game. For a reason. (Thibault Camus/AP)

Djokovic: How is any of that even possible? (Bob Martin/SI)

Nadal: Nine times. NINE TIMES. (Darko Vojinovic/AP)

Djokovic: Will Novak ever complete his career Slam in Paris? I say absolutely 100 percent yes. (Michel Spingler/AP)

Nadal: In the shadow of no one but himself. (Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

Nadal: The necessary post-win hug with Uncle Toni. (Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

Nadal: The ninth one is as sweet as the first. (Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)