Rafael Nadal wins Monte Carlo Masters

Rafael Nadal needed nearly three hours to defeat Gael Monfils 7-5, 5-7, 6-0 on Sunday and win a record ninth title at the Monte Carlo Masters.

Now 9 MCRolexMasters titles to go with 9 RolandGarros crowns for RafaelNadal, who defeated Gael_Monfils for his 68th title in 100 finals

— ATP Media Info (@ATPMediaInfo) April 17, 2016

The Spaniard claimed his first trophy in the Principality since 2012 as he played in his 100th final and tenth in Monte Carlo.

Nadal’s win pulled him level with ATP leader Novak Djokovic on 28 trophies at the Masters 1000 level.

“It’s great to win a Masters title again,” Nadal said.

“I had a tough season last year, but I’ve had better preparation this year, even with a tough start to the season.

“I hope this week will help me a lot,” the Spaniard said as he prepared to move onto his home clay of Barcelona next week.

Yet more SUPER rallies. #Nadal prevails in a titanic exchange! #Monfils https://t.co/0kjW9S7D3t https://t.co/slVg69oXVT

— TennisTV (@TennisTV) April 17, 2016

Nadal now owns 68 titles and will carry on in the run-up to the French Open with renewed confidence; Monfils can take small consolation after winning his first-ever set against Nadal on clay.