After A Slow Start, Rafael Nadal Rolls In First Match Back At Vina Del Mar [Video]
It wasn’t vintage but Rafael Nadal eventually found some form in his first match back at the Vina Del Mar VTR Open in Chile earlier today. In his much-anticipated comeback, a sluggish Nadal dropped the first two games to Argentine qualifier Federico Delbonis before coasting to a 62, 63, victory, his first win since June.
“I’m happy to play a singles match after so long,” Nadal said after the 87 minute win over the 128th-ranked Delbonis. “I need days and time to get my game back, but so far the feeling on court is great.
“For now the most important thing is to spend as much time as possible on court. This victory allows me to play at least two more matches, singles and doubles. To practice is one thing but to play is totally different. In a real match you can’t control your body as you do in practice.”
Nadal will be back on the court Thursday with Juan Monaco in doubles versus Rufin-Volandri, then return Friday for his singles quarterfinal match against either Montanes or Gimeno-Traver.
“A very special match! The ambiance was great and perfect for a return to competition Thanks Chile!” he added via Facebook.
Some 4,500 fans packed the local event to see the tennis great.
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