Rafael Nadal was below his best but was still able to edge out Leonardo Mayer 6-7(7) 6-4 6-2 to reach the third round in Barcelona.
The 11 time champion didn’t reach the heights he knows he can but ultimately progressed in a 2 hour and 49 minute battle against the Argentinian.
It means that Nadal’s streak in Barcelona extends to 16 matches as he continues his preparations for the defence of his Roland Garros title.
Up next for Nadal is David Ferrer, who in his penultimate tournament of his career beat Lucas Pouille 6-3 6-1 to set up a meeting with his compatriot.
It was a strange first set from Nadal, who played passively and got tight in the big moments especially with the footwork, which is one of his best traits.
After working hard to get the break, some more passive play saw Nadal fail to serve the set out and allowed the powerful Argentinian break back.
In a sloppy match from both, a tiebreak would separate the duo in the opening set as Mayer sensed an opportunity to take a set off the ‘king of clay.’
As twists and turns occurred in the tiebreak, it was Mayer who hit a thunderous forehand to seal the set 7-6(7) in 72 minutes.
It was the first time Nadal had lost a set in Barcelona since 2015, when he lost to Fabio Fognini, as he looked far from his best.
There were slow and steady improvements in the second set though from the defending champion as a break in the first game saw him get back on track.
Many important points evolved as the set continued with both men creating a few break point opportunities as Mayer’s level had dipped in the second set.
Having not played his best for a while, Nadal could rely on his serve a lot and he served out the second set efficiently to level the match at one set all.
The final set saw Mayer rediscover his best form to start with as he tested Nadal’s resilience but this form only lasted four games.
Some brilliant Nadal defence got his blood pumping and sealed the first of two breaks of serve and four games in a row as he eventually sealed his place in the last 16.
https://twitter.com/ATP_Tour/status/1121077616222658562
Although he didn’t play his best, the good thing for him is he managed to find a way to win. Although the current performance level must be a concern at this stage.
Next for Nadal is David Ferrer, who is playing his penultimate tournament of his career this week.
