Rafael Nadal vs. Kei Nishikori: 2016 Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell Score, Recap

After a series of hardships on the hard-court circuit, Rafael Nadal appears ready to soar back up the world rankings as the clay-court season kicks into high gear. 

Nadal found a way to capture his second straight tournament Sunday, earning a 6-4, 7-5 victory over Kei Nishikori in the 2016 Barcelona Open final. As noted by ESPN Tennis, Nadal now has 49 wins on clay, matching Guillermo Vilas’ all-time record. This is also his record ninth title in Barcelona. 

BBC’s David Law captured Nadal’s moment of glory:

That was one of the best straight sets matches you’ll see. Nadal looking ever more like the Nadal of old. 9. pic.twitter.com/VJmNZbs04M

— DavidLaw (@DavidLawTennis) April 24, 2016

The ATP also provided a head-to-head of Nadal and Vilas:

Nadal on clay 358-32 (.918), 49 titles (9 @RolandGarros), 81 straight winsVilas on clay 659-162 (.803), 49 titles (1 RG), 53 straight wins

— ATP Media Info (@ATPMediaInfo) April 24, 2016

The top-seeded Spaniard has won his last 10 matches on clay. He’s clearly rounded into form on his favorite surface after taking surprising losses to Dominic Thiem and Pablo Cuevas in Argentina and Rio earlier this year. 

“I had a tough season in the last few years, but I’ve had better preparation this …

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