Rafa Nadal dispatched his debut in what will be his last Mutua Madrid Open with a simple and quick victory. His opponent, David Blanch, a beardless 16-year-old teenager with a hopeful future but a limited present, took a knee as soon as he took the court. The nerves that the rival and the scenario caused Ferrero's pupil at the Ferrero Tennis Academy, which he arrived at the age of 14 after having also spent a few weeks at the Rafa Nadal Academy, were a burden throughout the entire meeting. A perfect sparring partner for the Spanish champion.
The meeting had hardly any history. Nadal applied his usual know-how, neatness and consistency in all facets of the game and this was enough against number 1,023 on the circuit. Blanch, whose father is Spanish, did surprise with a fantastic serve, which helped him not leave empty-handed. Alcaraz's regular training partner, he committed up to thirteen unforced errors in the first set alone, which Nadal won 6-1.
The Mallorcan, five-time champion in Madrid, took advantage of his rival's inexperience, this was his second participation in an ATP event after having made his debut a month ago in Miami, on center court against Machac, and was adding games without too much difficulty, letting mistakes and anxiety consume his rival. The second set began with the same dynamic. Completely overwhelmed, he said goodbye to the tournament with a bang (6-0).
After his brief return in Barcelona, the Balearic player needs to accumulate quality minutes on the court to be able to undertake more serious undertakings throughout the tournament and to help him progress this season. Without a doubt, Blanch was an excessively weak rival. Much more than expected and than he needed at all. Therefore we will have to wait for the next duel to know Nadal's true level. It will be precisely Alex de Minaur, his executioner in Godó, who will test his form again. The Australian won clearly 7-5 and 6-1 in that duel. Nadal has before him the possibility of taking revenge and extending his farewell in the Madrid tournament.
