Nadal faces Nick Kyrgios in final

Beijing : Rafael Nadal’s 60th victory of the season was a sweet one. The World No.1 battled past Grigor Dimitrov to book his spot in the 110th final of his career and fourth at the China Open.

Nadal needed two hours and 16 minutes to overcome a dogged display from Dimitrov, prevailing 6-3, 4-6, 6-1 yesterday evening in Beijing. It marked the ninth time in the Spaniard’s illustrious career in which he has surpassed 60 match wins in a single season. Nadal will look to add a tour-leading sixth title of 2017 when he faces Nick Kyrgios in today’s championship.

Nadal is seeking to lift the trophy in the Chinese capital for the first time in 12 years. The 2005 champion also finished runner-up on two subsequent occasions, to Novak Djokovic in both 2013 and 2015. Much will be at stake for the top seed today, as he looks to further extend his 2,160-point lead atop the Emirates ATP Race To London with a 75th career crown.

“I’m very happy to be in the final again,” said Nadal. “Of course, it is a very important achievement for me to continue with the positive feelings after winning the US Open. To be back here and be in the final with that very tough draw I had is a great effort. So I’m very happy.

“I am very pleased the way that I have been playing the whole week, after a very tough first day. So here I am. I am in the final. Another chance tomorrow to compete in a big match. That’s important for me. That’s why we practise every day and try to improve.”