ATP Madrid Open 2021: Rafael Nadal storms past Alexei Popyrin; progresses into the quarterfinals

ATP Madrid Open 2021: Rafael Nadal storms past Alexei Popyrin; progresses into the quarterfinals

Rafael Nadal

Rafael Nadal continued his fine form, as he secured a straight sets victory over the Australian, Alexei Popyrin in the third round of the Madrid Open 2021. The Spaniard has extended his unbeaten run to 7 matches on clay courts, and is on course to securing his sixth title in Madrid this week.

Rafael Nadal defeated Alexei Popyrin by a score-line of 6-3, 6-3 and dominated his opponent throughout the match. The world number two is slowly getting back to his best, with every match he plays. As for Alexei Popyrin, it was a good run in Madrid, as he defeated Jannik Sinner in the second round in straight sets. He would have gained some precious ATP points, which could push his rankings higher.

Rafael Nadal wins 6-3, 6-3 in the third round

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Rafael Nadal produced all-round display to defeat the Australian in the third round. He won 57 points, compared to Popyrin’s tally of 45 points. He converted four out of his six break point opportunities, whereas, he was broken just once during the entire match.

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Alexei Popyrin served up nine aces, as compared to Nadal’s one ace. However, the Australian also had four double faults to his name. Rafael Nadal’s first serve percentage was 65%, and he managed to win over 70% points on his first serve. However, that number is nowhere close to his best, and he will try to work on those numbers before the French Open 2021. Rafael Nadal will now face the winner of Alexander Zverev or Dan Evans in the quarterfinals of Madrid Open 2021 on Friday.

Also Read: Find Out: Why Rafael Nadal thinks ‘this’ player can be ‘one of the best in the world’