Rafael Nadal broke down in tears after his sensational Dubai Open triumph over Roger Federer but admitted that he will probably never displace the Swiss superstar from the world number one spot.
The 19-year-old Spaniard clinched his third win in four meetings with the triple Grand Slam title-holder when he won the Dubai crown in a 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 victory on Saturday.
It also brought to an end Federer's Open era record of 56 consecutive hard court match wins.
But asked if he thought he could become world number one himself, Nadal answered: "No! I don't have a chance. For me he's unbelievable. I will continue with my comeback and I am just happy with that."
Nadal, who also beat Federer on his way to the French Open last year, is still feeling his way back after a three-month absence caused by a worrying foot injury.
The world number two said his tears at the end of the two hour final here were a mark of relief as much as joy at his 13th career title.
He lay on his back, and then wept by the side of the court before paying tribute to the man who has been described as potentially the greatest.
"To beat Roger is special," Nadal said. "I am so happy for this. I was crying a little bit but that was because it has been difficult in the last three months."
