Spaniard Rafael Nadal won his third title at the Mexican Tennis Open on Saturday after defeating American Taylor Fritz in the final 6-3 and 6-2.
The world number two added another tournament trophy which was played at Acapulco Spa on hard ground after the winnings in 2005 and 2013. World number 1 Nadal and Fritz have never played each other but he is impressed by his quality.
“I couldn’t be happier. I played a great event from the beginning to the end. Acapulco was the first big title that I won in my career, so to be able to stay here after 15 years is amazing. I can’t thank enough the people who make me feel at home every single time.” Nadal said.
“He’s playing well. He has a great serve, fantastic shots from the baseline. It’s going to be a tough one. I know I’m going to have to be at my best and I hope to be ready for it.” Nadal said.
Nadal started the title match with an ace service, and at the eighth point he stopped service at Fritz to later win the set with another ace service.
In the second set, he interrupted Fritz’s serve twice and won the match with a powerful serve that Fritz could not send away by sending the ball to the bottom line.
On the way to the title, Nadal defeated Spaniard Pablo Andujar, Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic, Korean Soonwoo Kwon, Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov and Fritz.
Fritz was facing Nadal for the first time, he has enjoyed an impressive week and came from behind to beat compatriot John Isner in the semi-finals on Friday.
“He’s one of the best players to ever play the game and he showed me why that is tonight. This one of my favourite tournaments to come to every year. I’m just glad that I could have a good week at one of my favourite events.” Fritz said.
