There were lots of great players that never one at Roland Garros.... Sampras being one of them.
The thing is a game on red clay is completely different than any other surface. Its a slower pace, playing more of an advantage to a game with spin and depth. It gives the faster players (Nadal) a chance to get to balls that they might not be able to get to on grass or hardcord. For the first time in my life I played on Red Clay this past semester, it was absolutely different. I have been playing for about 17 years now, and there was such a change that it was tough to adjust and actually get things going.
When you (Federer) are facing the best clay player in the world, one who many are saying may have the potential to be the best clay court player ever, its pretty tough to do. Not to mention that guy, Nadal, is 21 and only getting better and stronger. He grew up on red clay and is absolutely natural on it.
That being said, the mere fact that Federer, who has won on every type of surface imaginable except clay, has made it to two straight French Open championships is absolutely incredible. I do agree though, he needs a French.
for your time,
Ana De Jour
