Rafael Nadal eased to a 6-1, 6-0 win over 16-year-old Darwin Blanch to set up a second-round meeting with Alex de Minaur at the Madrid Open
prepared to enter the Estadio Manolo Santana for what could have been his final match on home soil, like every single match this week could be, much of the 12,400 capacity crowd filled out the walkway around the stadium. He emerged to a prolonged standing ovation, necks craning to catch a fleeting glimpse of his entrance.
This was not merely a significant day for the four-time champion though. Across the net, at just 16 years old in his second ever ATP tournament, Blanch found himself staring down one of the greats of his time. Blanch’s nerves were immediately clear as he sprayed errors even as they warmed up at half pace.
Although in the top 10 in the junior rankings, Blanch is currently ranked No 1,028 on the ATP rankings and right at the beginning of his professional journey. It was clear he was also playing several levels above his current capabilities. Blanch showed considerable firepower on his lefty first serve, but he was overwhelmed by Nadal’s depth, weight of shot and consistency in the rallies.
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