Lucky stuff for Rafael Nadal in Madrid.
The world no.1 was badly outplayed by Kei Nishikori for most of the match. The Japanese was all over the show to have a huge upper hand in every department. In particular Kei was able to neutralize Rafa’s forehand with a Djokovic’c style backhand.
Kei had the match in his hands and it was really amazing seeing him leading 6-2 4-2 against the King of Clay in Madrid. Rafa just didn’t have any response to Nishikori’s hyper aggressive tennis.
But Rafa is Rafa and he has thousands of life in the same match: the game is not over till you shake hands. The Spaniard was always there looking for an opening and he had it when Kei’s problematic back started to crack. Eventually Nishikori’s wasn’t able to compete anymore and he had to retire when he was 6-2 4-6 3-0 down. Match Stats.
Rafa: This is a very important victory for me
Nadal commented “Winning at home is always more special than winning anywhere. Having the chance to play in front of your home crowd… is unforgettable for me. This city gives me a lot. This is a very important victory for me.”
Nishikori: I am looking forward to play in Paris
Kei was still very happy for his week “There is a lot of confidence I get from this tournament by beating Ferrer in three sets and playing well in the final today.
It’s going to be very exciting at the French Open because I’ve never feel like this on clay. I’m very confident of whatever I hit going for winners. I can hit from either side – forehand or backhand – so it’s a very good feeling that I have on clay right now
This is Nadal’s 63 career title, the 3rd of the year after Rio and Doha. (see details)
