Monday March 4, 2013
Happy again Nadal routs Ferrer to win Mexican Open
All smiles again: Rafael Nadal gives the thumbsup after winning the Mexican Open in Acapulco on Saturday. —AFP ACAPULCO (Mexico): Rafael Nadal destroyed David Ferrer to win the Mexican Open on Saturday, losing just two games as he claimed his second title in three events since returning from a lengthy injury lay-off.
The former world No.1, who has never lost to a fellow Spaniard in a final, kept his perfect record intact by routing reigning three-time champion Ferrer 6-0, 6-2 to win his 38th clay court title.
Since returning from a seven-month absence with a left knee injury in February, Nadal has won 12 of his 13 matches, finishing as runner-up in Vina del Mar, Chile, before triumphing in Sao Paulo last month.
“I have had some difficult months, especially during my time away from tennis. But I take with me fond memories of returning to Acapulco,” said Nadal, currently ranked fifth in the world.
“I feel good being back on court,” the Spaniard added. “I have to thank my family and everyone involved in my rehabilitation. It has been a difficult time over the last few months.”
The 11-time Grand Slam winner needed just 65 minutes to clinch his 52nd ATP Tour title, serving brilliantly throughout and winning 81% of his first-serve points. He saved both break points he faced.
“I am sorry about this result but I know Ferrer will be back and I consider him one of the great players of today,” Nadal said of the world No. 4 and top seed, who won the title in 2010, 2011 and 2012.
Nadal, 26, never allowed Ferrer to get into the contest, winning the first eight games and breaking his countryman five times.
“I want to congratulate Rafa. He is not an easy player to beat,” said Ferrer, 30. “If I have to lose I am happy to lose to Rafa.”
The women’s final was similarly one-sided with Italy’s Sara Errani beating Carla Suarez-Navarro of Spain 6--0, 6-4. — AFP
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