Madrid, Apr 30: Rafael Nadal’s journey at the Madrid Open continues as he triumphed in a grueling three-hour battle against Argentina’s Pedro Cachin, securing a 6-1, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3 victory on Monday.

In what may be his final appearance at his home tournament before retirement, the five-time champion displayed his trademark fighting spirit.

Following the match, Nadal shared warm words with Cachin at the net and gifted the world number 91 a match shirt as a token of appreciation.

His reward for advancing is a last-16 showdown against the 30th-seeded Jiri Lehecka scheduled for Tuesday. As Nadal continues his quest in Madrid, fans eagerly anticipate each match as the tennis legend demonstrates his unwavering commitment to the sport.

“Some moments good, some moments not good. I found a way to be through. I think in the third set with some mistakes I was still able to be a bit unpredictable,” Nadal said of his roller-coaster victory.