Rafael Nadal wins first Qatar Open title, wins $188,600 in prize money

World number one Rafael Nadal won his maiden Qatar Open title on Saturday after the Spaniard outlasted resilient Gael Monfils in three tough sets 6-1, 6-7, 6-2. Nadal’s road to the final was not an easy one as he had to win match after match in three sets. The title win means the Nadal is now the sole person in eighth place in the list of most titles won on the ATP Tour. He’s now also in sole ownership of the 13th place in the all time match victories list with 663 wins, overtaking Michael Chang.

The win means that Nadal goes home with $188,600 in prize money plus 250 ranking points. He built additional lead over number two Novak Djokovic who opted not to participate in any tournaments this week.

Despite the loss, Monfils will take positives in his performance this week as it will help his ranking prior to the Australian Open. He’s currently ranked 31st in the world.