Rafael Nadal has admitted he needs to win another four Wimbledon titles to be considered as good as Roger Federer.

It was third time lucky for the Spaniard as he beat Federer in an epic five-set final on Centre Court.

Nadal had lost the last two finals to Federer but he finally claimed his first title 6-4 6-4 6-7 6-7 9-7 in the longest-ever final at Wimbledon.

Nadal said: "It's impossible to explain what I felt in that moment. Winning my favourite tournament, it's a dream.

"He's still the number one, he's still the best, he's five times champion, now I have one."

A rain delay helped Federer fight back from two sets down to level the match.

After an hour-long break, Federer returned to the court refreshed and won two consecutive tie-breaks.

But Nadal came back from a second delay to break serve in the 15th game of the deciding set and then held serve to seal victory.

Federer said: "I tried everything. Rafa is a deserving champion, he just played fantastic.

"It didn't make it easier but I expected the worst. It's the worst opponent on the best court. It's been a joy to play here again. It's a pity I couldn't win it, but I'll be back next year."

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