NEW DELHI: Rafael Nadal commenced his farewell journey in the Madrid Open with a commanding straight-sets victory over 16-year-old Darwin Blanch on Thursday.
Despite acknowledging his lack of full fitness, the 37-year-old tennis legend displayed his prowess on the court, defeating his American opponent 6-1, 6-0 in just over an hour.
Nadal's dominant performance underscores his determination to make a strong comeback from injury as he embarks on his final season in tennis.
As a 22-time Grand Slam champion, Nadal's farewell appearance in the Madrid Open marks the end of an era in Spanish tennis.
With 2024 slated to be his last season, fans around the world eagerly anticipate witnessing the culmination of his illustrious career.
(With AFP inputs)
