Rafael Nadal vows to work even harder after defeat at Rio Open
Sunday 21 February 2016 14:26, UK
Rafael Nadal admits he needs to work at his game even more after another frustrating defeat at the Rio Open.
The world No 5 was beaten 6-7 (6-8) 7-6 (7-3) 6-4 by Uruguay's Pablo Cuevas in the semi-finals of the clay court tournament in Brazil.
This latest setback for Nadal came just a week after he lost in the semi-final of the Argentina Open to Dominic Thiem, again on his preferred clay surface.
"I lost an opportunity, that's it," said Nadal, who will turn his attention to next month's ATP Masters Series event at Indian Wells, live on Sky Sports.
"I fought until the end. I have to accept it and keep working to try to change the dynamic. That's what's happening today and I have to work hard to change it.
I didn't win a title, so it wasn't a positive two tournaments.
"I didn't win a title, so it wasn't a positive two tournaments. I had my chances in both. I lost in the semi-finals of both tournaments and just have to look forward to Indian Wells."
Nadal's pursuit of a first ATP title in 2016 could prove a tough task on the hard courts in California as a competitive field should also include world No 1 Novak Djokovic.
