Nadal stormed through the draw
Obviously, the Spaniard was previously on the tennis radar, but this was a significant title for Nadal, a springboard for his 11-title season of 2005, which heralded his maiden Grand Slam at Roland-Garros.
“I couldn’t be happier. I played a great event from the beginning to the end,” said Nadal, after picking up his 85th career title and first trophy since the US Open in September.
“Acapulco was the first big title that I won in my career, so to be able to stay here after 15 years is amazing. I can’t thank enough the people who make me feel at home every single time."
The 33-year-old’s 2005 and 2013 Acapulco triumphs were achieved on clay, prior to the event converting to hard courts. Both those title runs were dominant displays without dropping a set all week and Nadal once again stormed through the draw winning every set.