Rafael Nadal admitted he had fulfilled his dream after winning the French Open crown on his Roland Garros debut.
The Spanish teenager was the tournament favourite and won a thrilling final as he beat Mariano Puerta in four sets.
"It's incredible to win at Roland Garros," said Nadal, who sank to his knees after sealing the win.
"It's a dream come true to win on my first appearance here. Mariano was my toughest opponent in the two weeks. It was a great final."
Nadal's triumph saw he become the youngest Grand Slam winner since Michael Chang won at Roland Garros in 1989, aged 17.
The 19-year-old Spaniard has shown a cool head throughout the tournament - even dispatching world number one Roger Federer in the semi-finals with ease.
There were times against Puerta when Nadal's confidence deserted him but the Spaniard's determination ensured he never gave in.
"I thought I was going to lose after he won the first set, I really thought he could win," admitted Nadal.
"But I fight for every ball. When I have problems in the match, I fight, I fight, I fight every game.
"These moments are very strong and when you reach your goal, it's an extraordinary moment.
"For the first time, I cried after winning a match. It has never happened to me before."
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MMIX
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