World number two Rafael Nadal clinched a fourth Davis Cup in ten years for Spain by defeating Juan Martin del Potro this evening.
In a thrilling topsy-turvy encounter Nadal lost six games in a row in the first set before claiming the next three.
Del Potro imposed himself early on by lashing forehand winners to all corners of the court and went on to take the first set 6-1.
Nadal rallied in the second, making a crucial break at 5-4 to take the set and spark wild celebrations from both himself and the crowd.
He then went on to replicate Del Potro's first set by claiming the third 6-1 before a tight fourth.
The set went to a tie-break which Nadal dominated, not losing a point on his way to an emotional victory.
Both sets of supporters gave the game a gripping nature with regular choruses and Nadal described the atmosphere as the best he has ever experienced.
"We gave everything, it was a very emotional victory at the end of a tough year," said the 25-year-old afterwards.
"Winning in this way, we are very grateful to all the people of Spain. It was the best atmosphere I have experienced in my career."
Nadal and Spain have now won three of the last four Davis Cups.
Pascal Lemesre
