Taylor Fritz defeats Rafael Nadal 6-3, 7-6 (7/5) on Sunday to win the ATP Indian Wells Masters and hands Rafael Nadal’s first 2022 defeat.

The 35-year-old Nadal was in pain during the final encounter. He took treatment on his upper body for a yet-to-be diagnosed a problem that not only hurt but also affected his breathing.

Nadal will take a rest in next week’s Miami Masters to give his body a rest and prepare for the claycourt season.

Fritz said he knew that there was “stuff going on” with Nadal even before the match began.

Fritz, ranked 20^th in the world, claimed his second career title and his first at the elite Masters.

The 24-year-old American, meanwhile, was pushing himself through pain due to his injured right ankle. When he tested it Sunday morning he didn’t think he’d be able to play.

He took just game-time decision. A lot of members of his team wanted to see him playing and he never want to let them down.

What Ftitz Spoke After Winning The Title?

“This is just one of those childhood dreams, winning this tournament especially, Indian Wells, this is one of those childhood dreams you never even think can come true,” the champion said, fighting back tears.

“It was just an emotional roller coaster all days,” said Fritz, who spent hours leading up to the match receiving treatment to numb his ankle after “basically almost crying because I thought I was going to have to pull out”.

  Brief About Taylor Fritz –

• Full name – Taylor Harry Fritz
• Country – United States
• Born – October 28, 1997
• Career titles – 2
• Record – First American Player to win Indian Wells singles title since 2001