In 2005, 18-year-old Rafael Nadal stormed the field in Acapulco to claim the third ATP title and build momentum for one of the best teen seasons in the Open era. Last year, Nadal competed in Acapulco as one of the best players of all time.
Rafa lost just nine points behind the opening shot, annihilating the only break point he faced and dominating the opponent’s second serve to take three breaks to sail over the finish line. The Spaniard had the advantage in the shortest range up to four strokes and defeated the American in the most advanced exchanges to close out a perfect week and celebrate in Acapulco for the first time in seven years.
He went on to say “I am happy with my performance in Acapulco, it is an important title for me. It came after…
