Rafael Nadal beats Del Potro, wins third Indian Wells title

World number five Rafael Nadal won the BNP Paribas Open 2013 title on Sunday with a tight three sets victory over Juan Martin Del Potro of Argentina 6-4, 3-6, 6-4 at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. This is Nadal’s third title out of four events that he has participated so far this year.

Nadal skipped the rest of the 2012 season after losing his second round match at the Wimbledon Championships. This 2013 season, he delayed his comeback by missing the Australian and Middle Eastern string of tennis tournaments, which included the first Grand Slam of the season – the Australian Open and opted to make his comeback at the Latin Golden Swing in February.

The decision paid off for the Mallorcan after winning two out of three events in South America (Vina Del Mar, Chile – finalist, Brasil Open – titlist, Mexicano TELCEL – titlist).

His win at the Indian Wells wiped out doubts about his ability to play against his rivals on tour. In the quarterfinals, Nadal defeated longtime rival and defending champion Roger Federer in straight sets.

Nadal’s victory over Del Potro is his career 600th-match win on the ATP Tour.