Nadal routs Ferrer to win Mexican Open

Former world number one races to title in straight sets.

ACAPULCO: Rafael Nadal destroyed David Ferrer to win the Mexican Open on Saturday, losing just two games as he claimed his second title in three events since returning from a lengthy injury lay-off.

The former world number one, who has never lost to a fellow Spaniard in a final, kept his perfect record intact by routing reigning three-time champion Ferrer 6-0, 6-2 to win his 38th clay court title.

Since returning from a seven-month absence with a left knee injury in February, Nadal has won 12 of his 13 matches, finishing as runner-up in Vina del Mar, Chile, before triumphing in Sao Paulo last month.

“I have had some difficult months, especially during my time away from tennis. But I take with me fond memories of returning to Acapulco,” said Nadal, currently ranked fifth in the world.

“I feel good being back on court. I have to thank my family and everyone involved in my rehabilitation. It has been a difficult time over the last few months.”

The 11-time Grand Slam winner needed just 65 minutes to clinch his 52nd ATP Tour title, serving brilliantly throughout and winning 81 percent of his first-serve points. He saved both break points he faced.

“I am sorry about this result but I know Ferrer will be back and I consider him one of the great players of today.”

Meanwhile, in the women’s final, Italian top seed Sara Errani breezed past second seed Carla Suarez Navarro of Spain 6-0, 6-4.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 4^th, 2013.