26th of March

Rafa's remarkable 2008 tennis season has seen him named Player of the Year in the ATP World Tour awards. He became the first man since Bjorn Borg in 1980 to win the French Open and Wimbledon titles back-to-back.

Amongst his achievements, The 'Raging Bull' (as he is famously known) also became the first left-hander to finish No. 1 since John McEnroe in 1984 and in addition, he is the first Spaniard to end the season ATP World Tour Champion as the world’s top player in the South African Airways ATP Rankings.

Rafa led the ATP World Tour season with eight titles in 10 finals, 82 match wins, most matches (93) played and a 17-6 mark against Top 10 opponents. He also helped Spain to the Davis Cup title by winning all three of his matches during the year. He advanced to the semi-finals or better in all four Grand Slam tournaments for the first time in his career.

OTHER WINNERS

The awards, announced this Wednesday at the start of the Sony Ericsson Open saw players like Roger Federer win the Stefan Edberg Sportsmanship prize for a record fifth successive year as well as the fan's favorite player award. 

James Blake won the prestigious Arthur Ashe Humanitarian of the Year award for his many charitable efforts, including several fundraising initiatives for cancer research and Rainer Schuettler was chosen comeback player of the year.

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga was chosen most improved, and Kei Nishikori won newcomer of the year.

Congratulations to each of the winners! - Vamos Rafa!