Rafael Nadal saves four match points to go past David Goffin

 

Rafael Nadal gave another classic example that he never gives up on the court after he saved four match points against David Goffin in the third round of the ongoing Mutua Madrid Open. Nadal won by 6-3, 5-7, 7-6 (9) against Goffin to book his quarterfinal meeting with compatriot Carlos Alcaraz.

On the other hand, it is well known that Rafael Nadal is a big Real Madrid fan. Los Blancos snatched a win from the jaws of defeat against Manchester City in the semifinal of the UEFA Champions League. Madrid was down 5-3 but turned the tables in the last few minutes of the game to come out as winners and booked their final spot against Liverpool.

Similarly, Nadal came with his own magic against Goffin as he saved four match points against his opponent. Nadal was not completely happy with his performance as he wanted to finish the game in two sets.

“It was an unforgettable night. The spirit that the Real Madrid team has is just incredible,” Nadal said after his victory. “For me today, in some ways it has been an inspiration in the way I have been fighting all my tennis career.

“Honestly, it was a very tough match. I think I played at a very high level. But at the same time, I am not completely happy because I have to finish the match in straight sets, without a doubt.”

In fact, Nadal is making a comeback after injury and he is trying to be at the top of his fitness. Nadal kept his cool in the third set tiebreaker and saved two match points with drop shots.

“Three hours and 10 [minutes] on the court, that helps to increase my physical performance,” Nadal added. “A very important victory, saving match points. That’s confidence, that gives me the chance to keep going. I need matches and I need a day like today to be fitter sooner.”

Meanwhile, Nadal had beaten Carlos Alcaraz in the second round of the Madrid Open last year and also bested the youngster in the semifinal of Indian Wells earlier in the season.