The build-up to the 2021 US Open is heating up this week, courtesy of the commencement of the National Bank Open. Rafael Nadal will be one player to watch out for in this run for glory in Toronto. Ahead of the tournament, the Spaniard opened up on his first Canadian Open win in 2005 and how he clinched the title.

Nadal, in conversation with Mike McIntyre, reveals his thought process behind the title win in 2005. A young teenager from Spain defeated the experienced Andre Agassi in the final and announced himself to the world.

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Rafael Nadal opens up about his first ATP tournament in Canada

It all started in 2005 when a 19-year-old from Spain stood strong against the giant Agassi. Nadal played his heart out at the National Bank Open and defeated Agassi 6-3, 4-6, 6-2.

In this interview with Mike McIntyre, Nadal described his encounter with the American great and talked fans through his maiden ATP hardcourt title.

“Yeah, it had been a very important event for me, I had been cheering a lot on clay that year. Honestly I won a lot on clay, not yet on hard but I, of course, only play better on clay than the rest of the surfaces,” said Nadal on his first hardcourt win.

“2005, of course, important for the confidence, winning the first tournament and especially a Master 1000. Winning against important players, it was good memories, of course. Always a title is special, a Master 1000 even more. Of course, first time here (Canada), has been a great final I remember, a great final.

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“I played at such a great level during the whole tournament,” said the Spaniard.

Nadal’s quest for glory in Toronto begins on Tuesday

Rafael Nadal is the second seed at the National Bank Open this year. Given his half of the draw, it’s no joke for him to reach the finals; he will face the likes of potential opponents like Nick Kyrgios, Roberto Bautista Agut and Stefanos Tsitsipas.

He will have to regain his confidence and fight harder than before, considering the poor run of form in 2021. His US Open performance will be based upon his finish at the National Bank Open in Toronto.

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