Staggering difference between Rafael Nadal's statistics between Alex de Minaur clashes in Barcelona and Madrid
ATP
Rafael
Nadal took revenge on Alex De Minaur after defeating him in the second round of
the Madrid Open by 7-6(6), 6-3, one week after being defeated at the Barcelona
Open by the Australian (5-7, 1-6). The latest encounter left some key stats
that explain Nadal's improvements to secure his best win since 2022.
Despite
the efforts of the Spanish player, he has acknowledged that he did not come in
great form to the clay swing. He first skipped the Monte-Carlo Masters and then
exited in the second round of the ATP 500 Barcelona Open against world No. 11
De Minaur.
Encouraging Statistics for Nadal
This week in Madrid, Nadal admitted that he still doesn't feel at his best, but managed to secure victories over 16-year-old Darwin Blanc (6-0, 6-1) and then over the Australian 10th seed by 7-6(6), 6-3.
The
former world No. 1 shows improvements in his game despite not being at his
physical peak. Nadal notably improved his service in Madrid compared to a week
ago in Barcelona, showing better sensations and confidence on the court.
Against
De Minaur in Barcelona, he had an average 1st serve speed of 102MPH, while in
Madrid, it increased to 113MPH. The average 2nd serve speed also showed growth,
going from 87 MPH in Barcelona to 95 MPH in Madrid. The service speed
improvement enhanced its effectiveness with the first and second service; in
Barcelona, he had 66% and 43%, while in Madrid, it improved to 74% and 63%,
respectively.
Against De Minaur, Nadal secured his first victory over a top-15 player since the 2022 ATP Finals.
The
Spanish player appeared much more comfortable in rallies. If in Barcelona he
won 40% of the baseline battles, in Madrid, he achieved 61%. Nadal was also
much more consistent with his returns; in Barcelona, he won 30% of defensive
points, while in Madrid, it increased to 44%, giving De Minaur few free points.
Although
playing on clay is not De Minaur's strength, and playing indoors, along with
the stadium atmosphere, favored Nadal, the Spanish player showed evident
improvements from one week to another. His next challenge will be in the third
round against Argentine Pedro Cachín (No. 91), who surprised Frances Tiafoe
(No. 21) with a 7-6(1), 3-6, 6-4 victory.
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.
claps 0visitors 0
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- Either Lena has a chronic internal ailment (i.e., colitis, enteritis, Crohn's, or some type of lower abdomen issue) -- or she is once again dealing with 'Vukovitis'. Mental stress can indeed cause lower body pains. No matter... whatever is truly going on sucks. "Virus" excuse is getting a bit old -- and often -- at this point.
mandoist09-11-2026 - Ironically, Martina became a U.S. Citizen about the same time as the Orange Convicted Felon & Abuser was just beginning on his road to losing all Daddy's Millions!!mandoist09-11-2026
- "Another fresh start is in the cards." Thanks for the Humor!! I'm guessing this is the minimum one can do to keep all your sponsors hanging-on in perpetuity?mandoist09-11-2026
- Vukov is doing this to Lena... AGAIN!!!!! WTA's autonomous collective should be dismantled for allowing Vukov to re-emerge from his hand-slapping suspension. Just ask WTA employees how that's been going lately as they witness his continued verbal abuses. Women's Pro Tennis should start over.mandoist08-11-2026
- Can't help but suspect Vukov is back to his old self again. Thank you, WTA. Perhaps you can give them a "Battling Couple of the Year Award 2026" ??mandoist08-11-2026
- Wtf? Why is there no reason? And what about the men's?Bel08-11-2026
- One step by another step -- WTA continues to 'lose the plot'. Too many hi-tech microphones being installed at most venues!!! Remove them (especially those along the hallways, sidewalks, and pathways throughout the venues. Not to mention (most of all) remove the mic's from the Players/Coaches Box.mandoist06-11-2026
- Enough of her bullshit. Go marry someone.mandoist06-11-2026
- Don't you just love this young lady!? We fans often expect athletes to be supermen and superwomen, often forgetting that they WILL GET TIRED! I love Alex's perspective. Tiredness for an athlete should never be viewed as a negative, especially if you are healthy, taking care of your body and mental health and putting in the work. What a mature perspective. Good for you, Alex!Rapunzel05-11-2026
- Jess is absolutely correct! But the disrespect is a trait I have noticed in most of the Russian players. Mirra is good but very immature and lacks humility. Conceivable needs to get a handle on that!Rapunzel05-11-2026
