Eleven-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal has shown he’s not far away from returning to his best with an emphatic final triumph over world number four David Ferrer at the Mexican Open.
Nadal defeated his Spanish compatriot, who had won the event in 2010, 2011 and 2012, in emphatic style, winning 6-0, 6-2.
The triumph was the biggest indication yet that Nadal is closing in on his best after a long-term knee injury.
“I did not do anything wrong today, I had a great match, almost perfect,” Nadal said.
“I would have never imagined playing at the level that I played today, I’m leaving happy and surprised.
“I played a great match against one of the top players in the world, a specialist in clay who did not look like himself out there, he had a bad day.
“I am sorry about this result but I know Ferrer will be back and I consider him one of the great players of today.”