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Nadal beats Djokovic to reach Italian Open final

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rafael nadal

World number two Rafael Nadal is one win away from returning to the number one spot after he came out on top in a captivating Italian Open semi-final against Novak Djokovic in Rome.

The contest was thrilling, with Nadal winning 7-6 (7-4) 6-3 to reach the final.

Nadal edged the first set on a tie-break, as Djokovic, who is trying to get back to his best after returning from elbow surgery in January, faded in the second set to let Nadal power to victory.

This was the 51st meeting between the pair, and despite the win, Nadal still trails 25-26 against his long-term rival.

“It was a tough match,” said 31-year-old Nadal after the victory.

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“Playing against him is always a challenge.

“I played a couple of bad shots serving for the first set. Against him you always have to play at the limit of your game.

“I needed to play aggressive with my forehand. When I didn’t do that is when I suffered.

“This victory is a good confidence for me.”

Spaniard Nadal will face Germany’s Alexander Zverev, who beat Croatia’s Marin Cilic 7-6 (15-13) 7-5, in Sunday’s final.

Madrid Open champion Zverev will be aiming for an upset of Nadal, as the 21-year-old will be playing his fifth final in the past 10 Masters events.

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