Picture Credit: Twitter
Along with Real Madrid's emphatic triumph, another Madrid icon pulled off an incredible performance at the Mutua Madrid Open. Spanish tennis player Rafael Nadal defeated David Goffin in spectacular fashion in a grueling three-hour match.
The 35-year-old won the game 6-3, 5-7, 7-6 with an intense tie-breaker in the last set. In this battle of attrition, Nadal turned back the time as he saved four match points in the tie-breaker. The world no. 4 held two of Goffin's four match points with drop shots, and third when the Belgian netted a forehand.
Watch the saves here:
"I think I played at a very high level," Nadal
After the victory, Nadal talked about he took inspiration from the Los Blancos and pushed for the victory. He said, “It was an unforgettable night. The spirit that the Real Madrid team has is just incredible. For me today, in some ways it has been an inspiration in the way I have been fighting all my tennis career.”
“Honestly, it was a very tough match. I think I played at a very high level. But at the same time, I am not completely happy because I have to finish the match in straight sets, without a doubt,” he continued.
Nadal also talked about how this three-hour match will help him achieve his peak physical form moving into the tournament. He said, “Three hours and 10 [minutes] on court, that helps to increase my physical performance. A very important victory, saving match points. That's confidence, that gives me the chance to keep going. I need matches and I need a day like today to be fitter sooner.”