Rafael Nadal triumphs in Barcelona Open after making successful comeback from injury | Tennis News

Rafael Nadal made a triumphant return from injury in the first round of the Barcelona Open, defeating 21-year-old Italian Flavio Cobolli in straight sets. The 37-year-old, playing just his second tournament in 15 months, showed no signs of rust as he comfortably saw off his opponent 6-2 6-3.

Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, received a hero’s welcome as he stepped onto the court that bears his name. Despite a few loose forehands early on, Nadal proved too strong for Cobolli, who looked nervous and made too many errors under the pressure.

Although Nadal dropped serve for the first time in the second set, he quickly regained control and sealed the victory with some vintage forehands. The 12-time champion in Barcelona will now face fourth seed Alex De Minaur in the second round as he gears up for the French Open in May.

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