Royal support for Nadal, Spain

Rafael Nadal is congratulated by Crown Prince Felipe of Spain and Princess Letizia after he beat Roger Federer in an epic final at Wimbledon on Sunday to win his first title at the grass-court Grand Slam.

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In one of the most nerve-jangling finals seen at the All England Club, Nadal survived two rain breaks and an astonishing Federer fightback to end the Swiss's five-year reign as Wimbledon champion with a thrilling 6-4, 6-4, 6-7, 6-7, 9-7 victory.

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Dragging himself up from the turf, a tearful Nadal clambered through the stands to embrace his family and friends, who draped the red and yellow Spanish flag over his shoulders.

The Spanish Royal family are great patrons of sport and are seen at all the major events.

Crown Prince Felipe of Spain and Princess Letizia recently attended Euro 2008, where their country won their first major competition in 44 years.

King Juan Carlos was present for the trophy presentation (seen hugging Spain's captain Iker Casillas in the picture) when Spain beat Germany 1-0 in last Sunday's final.

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The Royal family is also a regular fixture at French Open tennis, which has been dominated by Spaniards over the years. Nadal, last month, claimed his fourth crown at Roland Garros.

Photographs: Getty Images