Rafael Nadal made a triumphant return from injury in the first round of the Barcelona Open, defeating Flavio Cobolli in straight sets in impressive fashion.
The 37-year-old was playing just his second tournament in 15 months, having picked up another injury at his comeback event in Brisbane in January, but showed no signs of rust as he comfortably saw off his 21-year-old opponent 6-2 6-3. Nadal received a hero's welcome as he strode out onto the court that bears his name and, although there were a few loose forehands in the early stages, the 22-time Grand Slam champion was too strong for Cobolli.
'What kind of stress can that body handle? The rest of the game looked to be in pretty good form. 'Nadal showed good touches early on so it's good news for him.' Tale of the Tape Norrie wins in bizarre fashion British No 1 Cameron Norrie is through after facing a bizarre interruption to his match when his opponent's phone rang. French qualifier Harold Mayot was about to serve early in the second set when he had to run to his bag and turn the device off.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Rafael Nadal victorious in Barcelona Open comeback from injuryRafael Nadal made a triumphant return from injury in the first round of the Barcelona Open, defeating Flavio Cobolli in straight sets in impressive fashion.
Read more »
Rafael Nadal wins in straight sets at Barcelona Open on injury returnRafael Nadal enjoys a winning start at the Barcelona Open as he returns from another long-term injury in what could be his final year before retirement.
Read more »
Rafael Nadal confirms appearance at Barcelona Open but suggest 2024 will be his last on tourRafael Nadal says he is 'just trying to enjoy every moment' as he returns to the tour for the first time since January.
Read more »
Rafael Nadal eases past Flavio Cobolli on return to action in BarcelonaThe former world number one was playing his first match since suffering a hip muscle injury in January.
Read more »
Rafael Nadal eases past Flavio Cobolli on return to action in BarcelonaThe former world number one was playing his first match since suffering a hip muscle injury in January.
Read more »
Rafael Nadal withdraws from Monte Carlo Masters: ‘My body simply won’t allow me’Rafael Nadal has pulled out of the upcoming Monte Carlo Masters with injury. The 22-time Grand Slam champion was sidelined for almost all of 2023 and saw his return in January of this year last only three matches.
Read more »