“The intensity he puts on the ball is brutal” Darwin Blanch speaks highly of opponent Rafael Nadal after suffering brutal loss against him at Madrid Open

Rafael Nadal will face Alex de Minaur in the second round of the Madrid Open, a rematch of the Barcelona second round.

“The intensity he puts on the ball is brutal” Darwin Blanch speaks highly of opponent Rafael Nadal after suffering brutal loss against him at Madrid Open

Darwin Blanch and Rafael Nadal (Image via: Imago)

When 16-year-old Darwin Blanch realized he was to play Rafael Nadal in his opening match at the Madrid Open, he was left dumbfounded. When he met the Spanish legend on the clay court yesterday, he was brutally beaten, but the teenager has revealed that he’s happy about the experience.

Blanch was no match for the ferocious Nadal, who was not even at the top of his game. The 37-year-old, just playing his third match after over two months away, was in no hurry to beat Blanch. 

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However, Blanch began with a rookie display as he hit a 132-mph serve that shocked the fans and delivered another at 133 mph. Both quick serves woke up the giant in Nadal, as he made sure the teenager had only one point in the first set while winning four unforced errors. 

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The first set finished in 28 minutes, 6-1 in favor of Nadal. In the second set, the Florida native player continued from the poor finish in the first set with two double faults. He earned 25 points in the match while Nadal won 53, winning the tie 6-1, 6-0.

After the match, the American teenager revealed that though it was a good experience, the intensity of Nadal’s play was brutal.

It was a very good experience, but it wasn't my best match, I didn't manage to reach my level. I felt quite bad, the intensity he puts on the ball is brutal.
Darwin Blanch said.

Blanch is still yet to win an ATP Tour match after being handed a wildcard in two tournaments. Also, he has featured in only two ATP Challenger tournaments, which speak volumes about several mistakes made during the game.

Rafael Nadal assures 16-year-old Darwin Blanch of a bright future ahead

Rafael Nadal also had kind words for the American teenager Darwin Blanch after defeating him. The five-time Madrid Open winner’s experience in the game proved overwhelming for Blanch, who earned only one game point in a 6-1, 6-0 loss.

Rafael Nadal(L) and Darwin Blanch (R) via Imago

Nadal said Blanch has a great future ahead and wishes him the best as he continues playing.

I think today I played against an opponent with a great future in front [of him], but today, still making mistakes. I just tried to be there, be solid all the time without taking a lot of risks. It worked well. I’m happy to be through and I wish him all the very best for the future.
Nadal said.

Nadal will face Alex de Minaur in the second round of the Madrid Open, a rematch of the Barcelona tie just eight days ago. The Spaniard will be hoping for revenge despite only playing six matches this season.

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