Nadal breezes past Fritz to secure third Acapulco title

World No.2 Rafael Nadal needed just 75 minutes to claim his first trophy of the season. He dominated Taylor Fritz to win the title at the 2020 Abierto Mexicano Telcel.

The Spaniard put on a clinical display, winning 83% of points on his first serve and saving the only break point faced. Fritz stood no chance as the top seed ran away with a 6-3 6-2 victory, despite hitting only one ace to the American's ten.

Both men were level in the opening set, with Fritz saving two break points when serving at 1-2. However, Nadal was relentless during return return games, and Fritz inevitable cracked under the pressure. The World No. 35 got broken at 3-4, allowing Nadal to serve out the set to love in just 39 minutes.

Fritz began the second set on a strong note, holding his opening service game to love. Parity ensued until Fritz faced a few break points at 2-2, before finally faltering at the third time of asking. A subsequent break allowed Nadal the chance to serve for the match at 5-2, and the top seed obliged, winning the match on his first championship point.

Nadal won his first two Acapulco titles (2005, 2013) while the event was still being held on clay. After it's transition to hard court, the Spaniard finally re-entered the winners circle. The World No.2 easily dispatched of Grigor Dimitrov in the semifinal, and captured the trophy without dropping a set.

By virtue of this victory, Nadal has now won his 85th ATP Tour singles title. The only men with more titles than the Spaniard in the Open Era are Jimmy Connors (109), Roger Federer (103) and Ivan Lendl (94).

Fritz was hoping to win his second ATP title after triumphing in Eastbourne last year. The 22-year old produced a stunning comeback to overcome compatriot John Isner in the semifinals. Nonetheless, he will see his ranking rise to a career-high of No.24 on Monday.

Click here for the prize money breakdown for the Abierto Mexicano Telcel.

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