Defending champion Rafael Nadal will clash against fellow country mate Pablo Carreno Busta in the ATP Rio Open third round on Thursday February 19, being played here on outdoor clay courts in Jockey Club Brasileiro.
14-time singles Grand slam champion Rafael Nadal has defeated home favorite Thomaz Bullucci in the first round with a 6-4, 6-1, where he wants to continue similar form to dominate men’s singles at the Rio Open. Nadal, who has won the Rio Open crown last year after beating Alexandr Dolgopolov 6–3, 7–6(7–3), he is seeking to lift another crown.
Pablo Carreno Busta, the 23-year old Spanish star has defeated opening round opponent Berlocq in three sets with a 6-3, 6-7, 6-0, as he could face big challenge against top seed Nadal on Thursday scheduled match. Nadal has been working hard on clay courts here in Rio de Janeiro along with Uncle Toni Nadal.
Rafael Nadal and Pablo Carreno Busta have not met each other so far in their career and the two players are clashing for the first time here in Jockey Club Brasileiro. As per the predictions, Nadal is considered as heavy favorite to clinch victory in two sets and advances into ATP Rio Open quarter finals.
