World number one Rafael Nadal sealed his fifth consecutive Barcelona Open title after defeating Spanish compatriot David Ferrer on Sunday’s final with a score of 6-2, 7-5.
Even though he’s been heavily favored to win the tournament from the start, Nadal said that hoisting the Conde de Godo trophy for the fifth time was unexpected.
“I never could have imagined I’d be here winning for a fifth time. Congratulations to David. Even though it was not possible for him today he played a great tournament,” he said.
Ferrer was also Nadal’s opponent in last year’s Barcelona final.
The previous week, Nadal set a record for winning his fifth consecutive Monte Carlo Masters title and there’s no indication that he’s slowing down. In fact, he’ll heading a tough field in this week’s Rome Masters. He lost in the second round last year to compatriot Juan Carlos Ferrero.
“I will try to carry my good form on into Rome. If I manage to play at my best there I have a good chance,” he said.
