Rafael Nadal extended his record number of Barcelona titles to eight as he brushed off a slow start to beat Spanish compatriot Nicolas Almagro 6-4, 6-3 on Sunday. Last weekend's Monte Carlo runner-up regained his accustomed position on an ATP winner's podium with his fourth title of 2013 and his third on clay for the year.
He rallied from two breaks down on a day of drizzle and heavy conditions, beating Almagro for the tenth time without defeat. The world number five has made a storming comeback to tennis after missing seven months from last summer with knee injuries. Since his February return, he has played finals in all six events he has entered.
He added the Barcelona title to trophies won over the past two months in Brazil, Mexico and California. The Spaniard won his 39th clay title and 54th overall.