Rafael Nadal claimed the 80th title of his career as he defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece in straight sets to lift the Rogers Cup in Toroto on Sunday. This is Nadal's fourth Canadian Masters 1000 title and record-extending 33rd Masters 1000 title.
The 17-time grand slam champion overcame the Greek challenge 6-2, 7-6 (7/4) in one hour and 45 minutes.
Tsitsipas, who celebrated his 20th birthday on Sunday, looked to upset Nadal as he fought back in the second set, but the Spaniard refused to stumble and secured his victory with a forehand winner. The thrilling summit clash could have gone the Greek teenager's way, but Tsitsipas couldn't match up to Nadal's brand of tennis.
Tsitsipas beat four top 10 opponent in a row to reach the final. In the previous rounds, he downed Alexander Zverev, Kevin Anderson, Dominic Thiem and Novak Djokovic. He said that it has been an amazing week for him, having reached the final of the Toronto Masters.
“Rafa is amazing, he never cracks. He will grab you like a bulldog and he will always make you suffer on the court,” Tsitsipas said.
Nadal also expressed his delight at winning the title. “It's been almost 10 years since I last played in Toronto.
“This trophy means a lot,” he added.
Nadal, who is preparing for the US Open later this month, has withdrawn from the Cincinnati Masters. He said that he feels like he has improved with every match, but needed to preserve his fitness.