When you get to a certain level in life, it is hard to imagine not winning.

Rafael Nadal said his record-equalling 46th clay-court title triumph on Sunday was extra special as it broke his "drought".

Nadal had not won a tournament on the ATP World Tour since clinching his ninth French Open crown in June, with the world number three claiming the Argentina Open after beating local hope Juan Monaco 6-4 6-1.

The Mallorcan moved above Pete Sampras and Bjorn Borg - both 64 titles - with his 65th tournament win, with Nadal fifth in the list of most Open Era titles behind Jimmy Connors, Ivan Lendl, Roger Federer and John McEnroe.

Nadal, who has 14 majors to his name, said comparisons to Sampras (14 grand slams) and Borg (11) flattered him.

"They have an impressive history," Nadal said.

"That's why it is an honour to be compared to them."

Nadal's finish to the 2014 season was blighted by appendicitis, which eventually resulted in him undergoing surgery.

He said tasting the winning feeling again gave him great pleasure, as did beating Monaco in blistering fashion - the final in Buenos Aires lasting one hour, 26 minutes.

"All titles are special, but I'm really happy because I have not been a champion for a long time," said Nadal.

"Against [Monaco], I played my best of the week. That is great news for me because I'm trying to gain more confidence."

A runner-up showing in Argentina saw Monaco, 30, return to the top 50 for the first time since April.

The former world number 10 said he was pleased with his progression throughout the ATP 250 event.

"It was a difficult week at first, but then I took confidence and I think I'm slowly returning to my best," said Monaco, who climbed 12 spots to 48th in the world.

"That's why I leave here happy."

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