Rafael Nadal Now Eight-Time Italian Open Champion

Rafael Nadal notches yet another title on the 2018 ATP World Tour. He wins his eighth career Italian Open, defeating Alexander Zverev.

The King of Clay, Rafael Nadal, strikes again as he gears up for the 2018 French Open. With action at Roland Garros right around the corner, Nadal earns yet another title at the Italian Open. He defeats Alexander Zverev in the finals, winning his eighth career title at the Masters 1000 event. The younger German tennis star came into Rome as the defending champion in men’s singles. Last year, he took down Serbian superstar Novak Djokovic in the finals.

Nadal emerges on top after a three-set thriller. He takes the match 6–1, 1–6, 6–3.

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With qualifying action underway at Roland Garros, the favorite remains Nadal. This is especially true after his fantastic run in Rome. Zverev must also be considered one of the top contenders. He is yet to win his first career Grand Slam singles title, but one appears to be on the horizon sooner rather than later. His runner-up finish to Nadal in Rome featured several big match wins. His run included impressive victories over the likes of Marin Cilic, David Goffin, and Kyle Edmund.

Rafael Nadal is heating up in time for the 2018 French Open.

Also having a strong week at the Italian Open was Novak Djokovic. The tennis great is continuing his return from an ongoing right elbow injury. Nole appears to be in his old form as of late.

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As Rafael Nadal wins another title in Rome, he will be the world No. 1 again. Taking the ranking back from Roger Federer, Nadal should enter Roland Garros as the top seed and world No. 1. He is seeking his 11th career title at the Grand Slam event. Last year, he completed La Decima and looks to defend his title in the coming days. Stay tuned to see how Nadal fares at the French Open.

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