Rafael Nadal reveals how ‘aggressive’ tactics inspired him to ‘special’ Madrid Open win
RAFAEL NADAL says his ‘aggressive’ tactics helped him overcome Gael Monfils at the Madrid Open this afternoon.
Rafael Nadal: The crowd help me to win
Rafael Nadal breezed past his French opponent in the second round, beating him 6-3, 6-1 in an hour and 13 minutes.
Monfils had two opportunities to break Nadal's serve in the early stages of the first set but missed both before the world No 1 found his stride.
Nadal, who is aiming for a sixth Madrid Open title, admits the opportunity to play in front of his home crowd helped drive him on.
"I'm happy to be back in Madrid and more to start with a victory,” Nadal said.
RAFAEL NADAL VS GAEL MONFILS RECAP
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“For me is a very special tournament. The opportunities to play in front of an audience that has given me practically everything are finite and I try to make the most of it every day.
"I always try to be aggressive. Sometimes it comes out better and sometimes worse.
“Last year I had a tough match in the first round against Fabio Fognini.
“This [year], I saved two break points and I got a fast one. In the end, it has been a pretty solid match in all aspects.
“I got better, I've been aggressive with the drive and the game has changed.”
Nadal will play either Feliciano Lopez or Diego Schwartzman in the quarter-finals.
