Nadal wins against Kyrgios in a thriller match at Indian Wells

Nadal wins against Kyrgios in a thriller match at Indian Wells. 

Rafa Nadal battled back to defeat flamboyant wildcard Nick Kyrgios 7-6(0) 5-7 6-4 in a thrilling quarter-final showdown at Indian Wells on Thursday.

Despite not playing at his best, the Spaniard delivered in the most crucial stages of the match and maintained his cool as his opponent flung his racket and yelled at the chair umpire, the crowd, and himself.

Nadal saved break points in the third set and held on to defeat the big-serving Australian and extend his unbeaten streak to 19 matches this year.

Nadal commented, “I think I played a good third set in an on-court interview.”

“My serve was firm, and I was returning better.” Nick is one of those players who can cause difficulties when motivated, so I’m glad we won.”

MORE: Sakkari and Badosa will meet in the semi-final at Indian Wells.

Kyrgios fired in the first set, breaking Nadal for a 2-1 lead, and pumped his fist after a decisive forehand winner down the line for a 5-3 lead.

But Nadal fought back, breaking Kyrgios’ serve to tie the match at 5-5, and Kyrgios slammed his racket when Nadal’s winner clipped the tape to start the next game.

Unforced faults placed Kyrgios in trouble in the opening set tie-breaker. Nadal won after his feisty opponent was penalized a point for “audible obscenity” after swearing at a rowdy supporter.

Kyrgios restored his poise in the second game, producing a slicing 45 mph underhand ace for a 4-3 lead. He then broke Nadal in the last game with a breathtaking leaping backhand volley winner enthralling the audience.

Nadal saved break points early in the third set and broke Kyrgios for the second time to take a 4-3 lead after committing seven double faults and winning only 29% of his second serves. 

Then, he clinched the victory with a spectacular overhead smash on the match point.

Kyrgios slammed his racket onto the court again after shaking hands at the net, and this time it nearly bounced into the seats.

“It’s all about momentum in tennis,” Nadal said.

“I knew the beginning of the third would be crucial for me after concluding the second with a handful of blunders.” The match returned to normal once I saved the first couple of games.

“After that, I performed admirably.”

Suppose Nadal wins his fourth Masters 1000 championship in the California desert. In that case, he will tie Novak Djokovic for the most Masters 1000 titles with 37.

On Saturday, he will compete for a spot in the final against either Spanish teen star Carlos Alcaraz or British defending champion Cameron Norrie.