Rafael Nadal battles past Stefanos Tsitsipas for 12th Barcelona Open title

Rafael Nadal clinched the Barcelona Open title for the 12th time has he defeated Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas in an entertaining three sets encounter.

Tsitsipas started the game brightly has went up 4-2 in the first set before Nadal regained control by breaking twice to win the first set.

The second set was most thrilling as both players produced intense displays and eventually headed for a tie break after the set was levelled

The third set experienced lot of pressure but the Spaniard eventually came out on top to win the game 6-4 6-7 (6-8) 7-5.

The match which lasted about 3 hours 38 minutes also saw the Spaniard with his 61st clay court win