Rafael Nadal added another page to his illustrious record book Sunday after defeating Juan Martin del Potro 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 to win the 2013 BNP Paribas Open. The victory was Nadal’s third at Indian Wells and his record-breaking 22nd ATP World Tour Masters 1000 title.
BNP Paribas Open 2013: Rafael Nadal defeats Juan Martin del Potro for title
Rafael Nadal notched another title under his belt at Indian Wells. This win was more than just another trophy on the shelf, though. What was so special?
Stephen Dunn
After dropping the first set, Nadal rallied to win the next two while battling del Potro in a match that spanned nearly two hours and 30 minutes. The young Argentine didn’t make it easy for Nadal, though. Del Potro saved 14 of 18 break points, but ultimately was unable to stop the surging Spaniard.
Nadal’s win marked the 600th of his career. He and Roger Federer are the only active players to reach this level. A select group of players have surpassed 600 wins throughout Open Era history.
After returning from injury in February, Nadal now holds three tournament wins in 2013. His victory at Indian Wells is his first hard-court title since Tokyo in October 2010. Nadal is riding a 14-match win streak and a 17-1 overall record in 2013. Ready to say he’s back to his old self?
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