Rafael Nadal reveals major worry after Leonardo Mayer win at Barcelona Open
RAFAEL NADAL revealed one of his biggest traits was not up to his usual standards during his victory over Leonardo Mayer at the Barcelona Open.
Rafael Nadal says he is ready to defend Barcelona title
Nadal dropped his first set in Barcelona since 2015 when he lost the opening-set tiebreak to Mayer.
For a brief moment it looked like the world No 2 could crash out early of a second clay tournament in as many weeks.
But the Spaniard was able to find some decent form to wrap up the victory in three sets.
However, Nadal felt he was not able to compete to his usual high standards which is very worrying considering one of his biggest assets is his work-rate.
“It has been a tough start, not the best feeling this afternoon,” Nadal said.
“I just found a way to keep going to win the match.
“He competed well against me and I was probably not competing very well.
“The attitude was correct and I worked to be able to continue in the tournament.”
Nadal will take on his good friend and retiring star David Ferrer in the next round.
And he is looking forward to what could be a final meeting against the 37-year-old.
“He is a good friend,” Nadal said.
“One of the best players that we have been watching the last 18 years.
“It is going to be a special one so let’s see.”
Nadal and Ferrer will fight for a place in the quarter-finals tomorrow.
The defending champion Nadal is looking to win the tournament for a 12th time.