Congratulations to Rafael Nadal and his fans. Earlier today Nadal capped the first phase of his comeback to tennis by capturing the Indian Wells BNP Paribas Open, defeating a very strong Juan Martin Del Potro in the final 46, 63, 64.
“I started the match playing fantastic, then Del Potro started playing a little more aggressive,” Nadal said to the AP.
“In my opinion, I tried to change too early against his forehand. I was playing much too aggressive for my game. When I was able to calm myself, I began to play better. I started to play a little bit slower. My movement was unbelievable,” he said. “Then I play a fantastic match.”
After missing seven months of recover from a left knee injury, Nadal returned to reach the final at all four events he played, losing just the title match in Vina Del Mar. And today he won his first hardcourt tournament title since October 2010 in Tokyo, a record 22nd Masters 1000 crown and overall his 600th career match win.
The title was also his third of the season which is best on the ATP Tour!
Nadal has officially withdrawn from the Sony Ericsson Open. His next event will be in Monte Carlo starting in a month on April 14.
A Picture from Facebook after the win:
ESPN’s post match interview:
Extended Highlights:
Ceremony:
Biting:
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