'I am sad, I am suffering' - Rafael Nadal on 'painful' issue after loss to Taylor Fritz in Indian Wells final

Rafael Nadal has spoken of his immense disappointment and frustration at not being near his best physically during his defeat to Taylor Fritz in the final at Indian Wells. Fritz claimed the biggest title of his career to defeat a visibly struggling Nadal and break the Spaniard's perfect start to 2022 in stunning fashion in the ATP showpiece in the desert. Ad/> Nadal, who was the red-hot favourite heading into the final, saw his 20-match streak come to an astonishing halt as the 20th seed claimed a 6-3 7-6 victory to become the first American to lift the trophy since Andre Agassi in 2001.

/> ATP Indian WellsHighlights: Fritz claims first Masters title with stunning win over Nadal at Indian Wells2 HOURS AGO The 35-year-old, who will now move up to No. 3 in the world, could not hide his disappointment during the trophy ceremony as he missed out on a record-equalling 37th Masters title, but he was typically gracious in defeat. “Congrats to you, Taylor," Nadal said in his on-court speech.

«Well done today, to you and your team. You are doing great. I know it’s a big day for all of you, so enjoy it.

Very well played. “I tried my best during the last two weeks. Today it was not possible, but I had a good fight to the end I think, and I’m happy for that.

»It’s been a very emotional beginning to the season for me. It’s been a while since I had a chance to play here, and everyone knows it’s one of my favourite places, without a doubt, so I'm very happy to be back. I really enjoy it a lot every single day that I spend here at Indian Wells.