Nadal eyes Barcelona crown
Spaniard returns to top five as he maintains focus ahead of French Open
Grand Slam Champion Rafael Nadal has asserted that his next target will be his home event in Barcelona, where he owns nine titles and not the French Open.
The Spaniard on Sunday defeated compatriot Albert Ramos-vinolas 6-1, 6-3 to clinch his 10th singles title of the Monte Carlo Masters and took him two notches higher in the ATP rankings to No 5.
It was Nadal’s 50th trophy on clay court, his 70th overall and his first title in almost a year
Nadal, also known as the King of Clay, has the same number at Roland Garros and could crack the 10 barrier in Paris. However, he is keeping his goals in perspective and is not looking too far ahead. “The next step is not Roland Garros, the next step is Barcelona. I never take Monte Carlo, Barcelona, Rome, Madrid like a preparation for any other tournament. These tournament saresoimportant.that’s the real thing,” Sport quoted Nadal as saying. “Roland Garros arrives later. It is another important event for me.”
Nadal, who won eight straight Monte Carlo titles from 2005, lost to Novak Djokovic in the 2013 final.
SERENA THANKS BABY ON RETURN TO NO 1 SPOT
Serena Williams returned to the top of the WTA world rankings on Monday and immediately shared the news with her unborn baby.
“My Dearest Baby, You gave me the strength I didn’t know I had. You taught me the true meaning of serenity and peace,” she said on online. “I can’t wait to meet you. I can’t wait for you to join the players’ box next year. “But most importantly, I am so happy to share being number one in the world with you... once again today. From the world’s oldest No 1 to the world’s youngest No 1. - Your Mommy.”