Coursey: ATP
Rafael Nadal showcased his legendary mental strength and physical endurance to overcome Mariano Navone in a gripping four-hour quarter-final at the Nordea Open in Bastad. The former World No. 1 fought back from a set down and a 5-2 deficit in the third set to claim a 6-7(2), 7-5, 7-5 victory, marking his first semi-final appearance since Wimbledon 2022.
Despite struggling to maintain his best form, Nadal's resilience saw him through an encounter filled with dramatic momentum shifts. The Spaniard, who has now won eight consecutive matches in Bastad, celebrated with joy and relief upon securing his 10th tour-level victory of 2024.
Awaiting him in the semi-finals is Croatian qualifier Duje Ajdukovic. Regardless of the outcome, Nadal's performance in this quarter-final is a significant boost as he eyes the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics. Can Nadal keep the momentum going and claim another Bastad title?
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