Rafael Nadal, the Spanish tennis legend, marked a significant return to form at the Mutua Madrid Open by defeating Australian player Alex de Minaur with scores of 7-6 (6), 6-3 in a gripping second-round match.
This victory was particularly sweet for Nadal, as it avenged his recent second-round loss to De Minaur at the Barcelona Open.
At 37, the former World No. 1 displayed remarkable resilience and stamina, much to the delight of the partisan crowd in Madrid. The intense match kicked off with a demanding first set that extended into a tense tie-break, which Nadal clinched with steadfast determination. Unlike their last encounter in Barcelona, where Nadal’s performance dipped in the second set, this time he maintained his vigor and secured the second set 6-3.
Reflecting on his recent challenges and today’s performance, Nadal shared, “I have had some difficult months at a professional level, but I have always got up with the hope of enjoying another afternoon like this one.” He added, “It means a lot to be able to play a complete match, as I couldn’t do that last week in Barcelona, and I am happy that I will be able to play at least one more time on this court,” hinting at his plans for this tournament to be his last in Madrid.
Elsewhere in the tournament, third seed Daniil Medvedev showcased his resilience by overcoming a rocky start against Italy’s Matteo Arnaldi. After dropping the first set 6-2, Medvedev fought back to win 6-4, 6-4 in the following two sets, demonstrating his adaptability and tenacity.
In the women’s draw, fifth seed Maria Sakkari of Greece made quick work of American Sloane Stephens, securing a 6-1, 6-3 victory to advance to the next round. Meanwhile, Spain’s own Sara Sorribes Tormo rallied the home crowd to a frenzy as she ousted former champion Victoria Azarenka with scores of 7-6(7), 6-3. Azarenka seemed to unravel in the final games, giving Sorribes Tormo a significant edge.
World No. 1 Iga Swiatek continued her dominant run with a swift 6-1, 6-1 victory over the 27th seed, Sorana Cirstea. The Polish star’s performance was both clinical and impressive, reinforcing her status as a top contender in the tournament. Additionally, ninth-seeded Jelena Ostapenko secured her place in the last-16 by defeating Argentina’s Maria Carle 6-3, 6-3.
One of the more dramatic matches of the day featured Ons Jabeur, who battled through fluctuating winds and a resilient Leylah Fernandez to clinch a 7-5, 2-6, 6-4 victory, ensuring her progression to the last-16.
As the Madrid Open continues, the high stakes and world-class tennis promise more thrilling encounters and potentially more upsets as players vie for supremacy on the clay courts of the Spanish capital.
