On Monday, April 29, at Manolo Santana Stadium, Rafael Nadal defeated Pedro Cachin of Argentina 6-1, 6-7 (5), 6-4 to go to the Madrid Open 2024 pre-quarterfinals. Nadal needed 3 hours and 4 minutes to defeat his opponent.
With three breakaways of his opponent’s serve, Rafael Nadal won the opening set in a lopsided fashion. In the second set, Nadal had to battle through emotional exhaustion. He was down twice, but he got both breaks back to tie the game at four. But Cachin broke Nadal’s serve once again, giving him a chance to serve the set out at 6-5.
Nadal was adamant about winning and forced to go to a tiebreaker in the match. With a 1-4 deficit, the Spaniard was now facing nth time in the set on the back foot. Despite Nadal’s best efforts, Cachin managed to maintain his composure and force a decisive set.
Nadal gained an early break in the third set, and he did not look back. Although Cachin had his moments, they were insufficient to give him the final laugh. Jiri Lehecka, the man who beat qualifier Thiago Monteiro, will square up against Rafael Nadal in the Round of 16.
His passion for the game never changes, just like the first day. ❤️pic.twitter.com/RwBD9IJpt3
— Rafael Nadal Fans Page (@jusvan28) April 29, 2024Nadal, 37, is attempting to get in condition for the French Open, which takes place next month. He has played in two matches for Barcelona since his most recent injury absence, and upon landing in Madrid, he expressed pessimism on his physical state. But in the capital, he has three more victories.
Again, Nadal appeared at ease in the opening exchanges with Cachin. In the second set, the Argentine rallied, but while serving to win the set, she was broken twice. In the end, Cachin won the tiebreaker.
In the last set, Nadal appeared more worn out than he had in the first. Although his shooting wasn’t as steady, he managed three breaks to secure the win and excite the local audience in the Caja Magica.
Swiatek through to quarters
Iga Swiatek, the top seed in the world, advanced to the quarterfinals of the women’s singles competition. On Monday, April 29, the Polish player emerged victorious over Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain in the Round of 16. Swatek defeated her Spanish opponent 6-1, 6-0 at the Manolo Santana in just one hour and seven minutes.
The victory gave the 22-year-old Swiatek a 4-0 record against Sorribes Tormo in WTA play. Next up for Swiatek in the quarterfinals is Beatriz Haddad Maia of Brazil, who defeated Maria Sakkari in straight sets.
Read More: Nadal expresses deep gratitude as he swiftly avenges his loss against De Minaur in Madrid
