Nishikori now trails only Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal after leapfrogging Britain's Andy Murray, meaning he will avoid the top three until the semi-finals at the major tournaments. PHOTO: FILE
The Japanese top seed is making his first appearance of the season on clay in the Catalan capital, but showed no signs of rustiness early on as he romped into a 4-0 lead.
Giraldo responded by getting a break of serve back at 4-2, but Nishikori then reeled off the next seven games to take him to the brink of victory and he served it out to make the last eight with ease.
“It was a harder match than the scoreline indicates. I just played better on the decisive points,” said Nishikori.
The world number five will face Roberto Bautista Agut on Friday after the Spaniard overcame Pablo Cuevas 7-6 (7/5), 6-2.“It will be a tough match because Roberto is a good player, especially on clay,” said Nishikori.
Third seed David Ferrer had a slightly tougher afternoon against 19-year-old Swede Elias Ymer despite winning 6-3, 6-4.
Ferrer took the first set comfortably, but was 4-0 down in the second before winning six straight games to claim his place in the quarters. “It was the first time I had played against him and he is a player with a great future,” said Ferrer.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 24th, 2015.
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