Federer and Nadal Advance to IW Quarters

It took about three hours, but Rafael Nadal advanced to the Indian Wells quarterfinals after defeating David Nalbandian . Nadal fought off give match points to win the game3-6, 7-6 (5), 6-0 on Wednesday, March 18th.

Image: Newscom

This was not an easy match for Nadal and as most of you know, he and Nalbandian have a big rivalry going on.  Nalbandian has defeated Nadal in their last two matches against each other. To say Nadal wanted this win would be an understatement.

“I was lucky,” Nadal said. “I didn’t go into the match with the best mentality. I didn’t have a clear idea of how to play him, probably because I lost the last two matches against him. I have to play my game, and I didn’t.

“I had a big save today. I hope to play more aggressive now.”

Roger Federer defeated  Fernando Gonzalez 6-3, 5-7, 6-2 early on Wednesday (March 18). His match wasn’t any where close to perfection, but he pulled it off for a much wanted victory.

American Andy Roddick defeated David Ferrer 7-6 (5), 3-6, 6-3. How did he do it? I think his 10 aces toward the end of the game had something to do with it. He started off with some difficulty in handling Ferrer serves, but came back in the third set very strong.

“My rhythm on my serve went off in the second set and I guess I was developing a pattern,” Roddick said. “But he played well. I thought I hit the ball well in the second set.

“The guy’s a bulldog and he just does the basics so well. He’s a good player.”

For all of the latest highlights at the Indian Wells Tournament , check their official website .

Source: BNP Paribas