Andy Murray won his first career clay-court title last year. Murray can win his first Roland Garros title this year, says Rafael Nadal.

The nine-time Roland Garros champion says Murray's game is currently strong enough to capture his first French Open title.

More: Murray Snaps Nadal's Streak, Reaches Madrid Open Final

"Andy is a great player, so he really doesn't need to improve a lot to win titles and to have success on clay, no? He's playing well," Nadal said after today's 7-5, 6-4 loss to Murray in the Madrid Open semifinals.

It was the second-ranked Scot's second clay-court win over Nadal in nine career meetings on dirt. Both of Murray's wins have come in Madrid.

Asked how far Murray can go in Paris, Nadal said the Madrid champion can rule Roland Garros.

"He can win the title," Nadal said of Murray. "If you were in the semifinal two times and you lost in five sets in semifinals, it's obvious that you can win the title, no?

"But like everybody, you need to arrive fresh physically and mentally and playing your best tennis. Roland Garros is a tough tournament, two weeks, best-offive sets, and anything can happen."

Photo credit: Mutua Madrid Open