Top seed Rafael Nadal has overcome a slow start to triumph in three sets in his second round Barcelona Open match against qualifier Ilya Ivashka. Our champ, who has not lost on clay to an opponent ranked outside the world’s top 100 since 2004, won 3-6 6-2 6-4 against 111th-ranked Ivashka. He awaits the winner of Kei Nishikori and 13th seed Cristian Garin.
Rafa is seeking a record 12th title in the Barcelona tournament. He won the event six times in its last nine editions. The Barcelona Open was not played last year because of the coronavirus pandemic.
I didn’t enjoy the first set at all, but he got there in the end. Still can’t decide what I think of the pink shorts!
Rafa congratulations well don slow star you have to have your confidence back remember you are the king of clay vamosssssss champ all the way you can do it 💪💪💪💪🎾😘😘❤️❤️👍👍💪💪💪
Rafa overcame a big hitter, it was a tough match and I think it will give Rafa confidence. The court was heavy in the first set. Now he faces Shower man Nishikori.
Go Rafa 🇪🇸🌟🍀
Slow start, strong finish. Keep it up. Vamos Rafa❤️
A slow start, but a strong finish, good job Rafa, one match at a time. Vamos!💪❤️ Good luck against K. Nishikori or C. Grain next.🍀
Much better today obviously. Looked really good towards the latter half of both the second and third sets. Rafa still needs work in my opinion. I’d love to see him round into form with his match tomorrow. Go Rafa!
Yes, you are right, David. Tougher opponents are ahead, and Rafa must play better and better!