WOW-ing in Washington 🤩🇪🇸 @RafaelNadal was made to work on his DC debut but gets it done against Sock 6-2 4-6 7-6 in a nighttime epic! #CitiOpen
Making his long-anticipated return since opting to skip Wimbledon and the Tokyo Olympic Games, Rafael Nadal endured a marathon match against the resurgent Jack Sock to book his spot in the Round of 16 at the Citi Open Washington.
The World No.3 faced a determined Sock late Wednesday night, enduring an onslaught from the American in the second set before finally grasping a 6-2 4-6 7-6(1) victory. The three hour and five minute encounter saw both men give their all in front of a raucous crowd, with Sock receiving a lot of support from the home crowd.
Nadal raced to an early lead in the first set, looking like he'd never lost a step. However, Sock increased his intensity, returning to the form that saw him rise as high as World No.8. The American took the second set, and obtained an early break in the third to lead 2-1. However, Nadal's full fighting spirit was on display as the Spaniard tracked down every ball, attacking Sock's backhand until he broke back.
With no more breaks in the final set, a tiebreak ensued. It was all Nadal, as he dominated from the baseline with his fearsome forehand. A forehand winner sealed the victory, with the 20-time Grand Slam champion moving on after a hard-fought battle.
Nadal will face Lloyd Harris for a spot in the quarterfinals, with the South African defeating Tennys Sandgren 6-4 1-0 after the American was forced to retire.
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