Rafael Nadal made a name for himself in Monte Carlo 2003, making an impressive Masters 1000 debut at 16. The 16-year-old qualified for the main draw and took down the reigning Roland Garros champion en route to the third round.
Speaking about his impressive debut, Nadal said he would never forget that tournament, which gave him much confidence
. Two years later, Rafa became one of the world’s best players at 18, losing a thrilling five-setter in the Miami Open final to Roger Federer and heading to Monte Carlo with a boost.
Nadal missed the Masters 1000 event in the Principality in 2004 and was eager to make another great run in 2005 as he did two years ago.
Rafael Nadal made his Monte Carlo debut in 2003 at 16, winning two matches.
Hoping for more of the same in Monte Carlo, Rafa ousted Gael Monfils in the first match and played an even better one against the Belgian Xavier Malisse in the second, clinching a 6-0, 6-3 triumph in an hour and two minutes to move into the last 16.
Dominating on serve and return, Nadal lost nine points in his games and grabbed four breaks from as many chances to make the strongest start and seal the deal in no time. After the match, Rafa spoke about his first appearance in the Principality.
He qualified for the main draw and made a winning start…
