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Rafael Nadal’s comeback win takes over tennis as Novak Djokovic’s former coach cannot contain the excitement anymore

The entire tennis world was excited to see Rafael Nadal return to the clay courts of Barcelona on Tuesday after a two-year absence. After 680 days, fans witnessed Rafa’s magic on the court as he faced off against the talented Flavio Cobolli.

Despite having not much court time in the year, the Spaniard played like he never left. From the time he stepped onto the court, he had the fans glued to their seats. They got ecstatic after Nadal played a couple of his traditional forehands. Among those delighted fans was even a tennis legend, and the former coach of Novak Djokovic. 

German legend Boris Becker could not hold back his excitement as he watched the ‘King Of Clay’ back on the courts of Barcelona. He put up an Instagram story captioned “Rafa is back,” as the Spaniard continued to put up a good show on the court. 

From the get-go, it was Nadal, who dominated most of the match. Having broken early, Nadal got past the Italian youngster in straight sets 6-2,6-3. Despite not having completely returned to form, the Spaniard made the fan’s night with a commanding first-round win at the Barcelona Open. 

Rafael Nadal pulled out a great win despite the difficult conditions at the Barcelona Open

Rafael Nadal defeated his Italian opponent Flavio Cobolli in straight sets upon his return, overcoming a slow start to finish strong and claim victory. However, he felt otherwise, as he spoke about his difficulties in managing the conditions today. Nonetheless, Nadal looks forward to the next match, where his agility is sure to be tested, knowing that he wasn’t physically challenged in this match

It was difficult to manage the conditions today, but I was able to manage because I was more or less in control. I didn’t have to make an amazing effort in terms of physical demands. Let’s see if I’m able to keep managing that the proper way.  Rafael Nadal in the post-match interview

Now, the Spaniard gears up for his next-round opponent Alex de Minaur, with whom he has gone against four times and won three of those fixtures. Having already hinted that this was going to be his last year playing in Barcelona, the fans hope that he ends on a winning streak. With 12 titles already to his name at this tournament, one more may be en route, if Nadal can continue to put off his opponents. 

This article first appeared on FirstSportz and was syndicated with permission.

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