Rafael Nadal’s quest for a maiden ATP Finals title has got off to a dream start after he eased to a straight sets win in his opening match on Sunday.
The world No.2 swept aside Andrey Rublev 6-3, 6-4, in what was the first meeting between the two since 2017. Once described by his opponent as ‘the best athlete in history,’ Nadal lived up to that praise by answering all the questions that were asked of him throughout the 76-minute encounter at The O2 Arena. Remaining unbroken throughout his latest match, he hit 16 winners and two aces past Rublev en route to victory.
“I think it was a positive start for me. The first match is always very tricky. Here (at The O2) it is always tricky because you play the best of the best. I’m very happy,” said Nadal.
Heading into the match Nadal knew he potentially had a stern challenge in front of him. Tournament debutante Rublev has already won five titles and 40 matches on the ATP Tour this year which is more than any other player. Nevertheless, the former world No.1 glided his way through what was largely a straightforward opening set. Six games into the match he launched his first strike by breaking the Russian, who hit a shot that touched the net before landing out on break point. Prompting Rublev to slam his racket on the ground out of anger after falling behind 2-4. Meanwhile, a composed Nadal stuck to his game plan as he clinched the set three games later with the help of a love service game.
Continuing with his high intensity, Nadal wore down his 23-year-old rival by breaking once again at the start of the second frame. Prompting Rublev to drop his head out of frustration. The problems continued for the world No.8 whose inconsistency on court prevented him from bouncing back.
“In general I was not serving good at all because I was a little bit nervous which is normal. Then when he broke me in the second set I relaxed and I started to serve much better and it was a difficult game but it was too late,” Rublev reflected.
“This was only my second time against Rafa and I have played Roger (Federer) once before. I have only played three times against top three players so I don’t have much experience so the more I play against them the better I think I will perform.”
Closing in on his 19th win at an ATP Finals tournament, Nadal continued to dictate play. Serving for the victory, he worked to three match points with the help of a winning smash at the net. He prevailed on his second opportunity with a serve down the centre of the court which Rublev returned out.
“I went on court with a determination to try to play my game. I think my serve worked very well tonight which is always a big help on these surfaces,” Nadal commented.
“I’m pleased with my victory and it changes my perspective of the tournament a bit.“
Nadal will continue his ATP Finals title bid on Tuesday afternoon when he takes on Dominic Thiem. He currently leads their head-to-head 9-5.
“For me it is going to be a tough one and hopefully it will be the same for him too. I’m going to try and be ready for it. I know it will be a tough challenge but I believe today has helped me for that match. Tomorrow I have the day off to practice, work on what I need to do and I hope to be ready,” Nadal concluded.
