Nuno Borges reveals his mixed emotions after beating Nadal in Bastad: “We all wanted Rafa to win”
ATP
Nuno Borges commented that he wanted Rafael
Nadal to win in the final of the Bastad Open, even though the Portuguese player
was fighting for his first professional title. Borges, 27, defeated the 22-time
Grand Slam champion on Sunday with a convincing 6-3, 6-2 after a demanding week
for the Spaniard.
The former world No. 1 seemed fatigued after a
difficult week. Borges secured several early breaks, giving him a comfortable
lead in the first set, and despite Nadal's response with a couple of breaks
throughout the set, it wasn't enough for a comeback. Although the second set
started evenly, Borges ultimately won four consecutive games to clinch the
title.
Emotional Borges clinches maiden title
Borges won the first ATP 250 title of his
career and will reach the highest ranking of his career as world No. 42
starting Monday. For Nadal, the good week he had by reaching his first final in
more than two years allows him to recover some positions to No. 161.
"I don't know what to say, I think I was
wishing for this moment for a while," Nuno Borges commented after winning
the title. "It is crazy tennis, it doesn't happen when you expect it
sometimes. I know we all wanted Rafa to win and a part of me wished that too
but something even bigger inside of me really pushed through today, through the
emotions and all the ups and downs.
"It wasn't about playing my best tennis
today. It was just about coming through in the big moments and I couldn't have
played better. I don't know what to say, I am very emotional."
Rafa Nadal at 2024 Bastad Open.
Nadal played almost 7 hours in the last two
days with the epic duel against Mariano Navone and the battle against Duje
Adjukovic in the semifinals. Despite the disappointment, the Spaniard praised
his opponent and wished him luck for the future: "You played great all
week, you deserve it more than anyone else," he said. "Enjoy your
moment. It’s a special moment winning a title. I wish you all the very best for
the rest of the season.
Read also
"I have been here during the whole week
and a half enjoying this amazing place. I really had fun on court. I played
some long and good matches. Today wasn’t my best day, but all credit to Nuno.
He played very, very well and it was difficult for me, so well done."
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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