Rafael Nadal Cruises Into Madrid Last 16, Ashleigh Barty Faces Surprising Paula Badosa In Semis
NDTV
Rafael Nadal beat youngster Carlos Alcaraz 6-1, 6-2 to reach the last 16 of the Madrid Open.
Rafael Nadal began his bid for a sixth Madrid Open title in simple fashion on Wednesday, easing past youngster Carlos Alcaraz 6-1, 6-2 to reach the last 16. Nadal, who returned to number two in the world last week after his thrilling win over Stefanos Tsitsipas in the Barcelona final, strolled past his 18-year-old opponent in the Spanish capital. Ranked 120 in the world, Alcaraz walked out to fans singing 'happy birthday' -- and later received a cake -- as he celebrated his birthday playing against his childhood idol. Alcaraz battled bravely and even broke his compatriot Nadal's serve in the second set but was predictably overwhelmed by one of the game's greats in a match that lasted one hour and 17 minutes. "The victory in Barcelona helped me a lot. Things have got better since," said Nadal, reserving special praise for his vanquished opponent.More Related News