MADRID (SPAIN) Five-time champion Rafael Nadal celebrated his victory over 91st-ranked Argentine Pedro Cachin on Monday after winning a tough match in the third round of the Masters 1000 in Madrid. Despite being on court for 3 hours and making many unforced errors, he was satisfied with the positive result and found a way to win.
“Some moments were good. Some were not, but I found a way to move forward,” Nadal said after his 6-1 6-7 (5-7) 6-3 win over Cachin. “In the third set, even with some mistakes, I was a bit unpredictable, and that probably changed the match.
“Though I still have a lot to learn, I’m satisfied that I held the match. Things don’t come automatically. I forced him to play, and he showed excitement to close the second set. In the third, I was able to change my way of playing,” assessed the Spaniard, which also highlighted the support of the fans. “I’m enjoying playing at home and in front of this incredible crowd. It means everything to me.”
Nadal will finish his match this Tuesday against the Czech Jiri Lehecka, ranked 31st, on the Manolo Santana Court. “I practiced with Lehecka. He has a great serve and a good baseline shot. He has quality and balls. The speed is incredible.”
The 37-year-old veteran was also asked if the wear and tear from that game could interfere with his performance the following day on Monday. “It’s been a long time since I played a three-hour game. Let’s see how I wake up tomorrow. Since I only play at night, I have more hours to sleep and work. One less win will be a big step. But tomorrow the competition will already be successful”.
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