Nadal closes on top 4 spot with Monte Carlo success
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RAFAEL Nadal stays at world No. 5 in the latest ATP rankings released yesterday, but cuts the gap to the top four after claiming his ninth Monte Carlo Masters title on Sunday.
Jo-Wilfried Tsonga jumps up two places to seventh thanks to his run to the semis in Monaco, while his fellow Frenchman Gael Monfils is also up a couple of spots after reaching the final.
Novak Djokovic remains well clear of Andy Murray at the top despite his surprising early exit in the first major clay-court event of the year.
Fresh from claiming his first title in nearly two years, Nadal can now tie Guillermo Vilas’s record of 49 clay-court titles at the Barcelona Open this week.
Nadal has won the title eight times. “I had a tough season in the last few years, but I’ve had better preparation this year, even with a tough start to the season,” said Nadal after lifting his 28th Masters title.
“I hope it helps my season with confidence for the next few tournaments. I’ve been able to play well for two events in a row — Indian Wells and here (Monaco) — winning against very tough opponents so that is very good for my confidence.”
Enigmatic Italian Fognini has been a thorn in Nadal’s side in the past two years as he has twice defeated the Spaniard on clay and came from two sets down to beat the 14-time grand slam champion at the US Open last September. The two could meet again in the quarterfinals as Nadal has been handed a tricky draw with compatriot David Ferrer also potentially awaiting in the semis.
On Sunday, the king of clay went for two and three-quarter hours before beating Frenchman Gael Monfils 7-5, 5-7, 6-0 in a morale-boosting victory of massive proportions.
“Winning nine times here is something unbelievable for me. Outside of that, that is something so special. Compete well two weeks in a row is something so positive,” Nadal said.
After last lifting a title in the Principality in 2012 and then losing a 2013 final to Novak Djokovic, Nadal was overjoyed with his latest success, his 68th title as he played in his 100th career final.
“I’ve been a couple of time without winning big, big tournaments, I’m enjoying this moment. I’ve worked hard to have this trophy with me. I am enjoying this moment.”
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