ATP Barcelona Open 2021: Rafael Nadal vs Ilya Ivashka – Preview, Head to Head and Prediction

Rafael Nadal vs Ilya Ivashka: Rafael Nadal, top seed at the Barcelona Open 2021, will face the Belarusian, Ilya Ivashka in the second round clash. The Spaniard is ranked third in the world, whereas, Ivashka is ranked on the 111th spot in the ATP Rankings.

Match Details

• Tournament: ATP Barcelona Open 2021
• Match: Rafael Nadal vs Ilya Ivashka
• Round: Second round 
• Date: 21st April, 2021
• Prize Money: $16,373
• Venue: Barcelona, Spain
• Surface: Clay Court

Rafael Nadal vs Ilya Ivashka: Match Preview

Rafael Nadal last played at the Monte Carlo Masters, where he was defeated by the eventual runner-up, Andrey Rublev in three sets. The Spaniard now returns to Barcelona Open, a title which he has won on 11 occasions. The world number three enters as the top seed, and also received a bye in the first round. The 20-time Grandslam champion is the favorite to bounce back from his defeat last week, and claim his 12th title in Barcelona.

Ilya Ivashka has had a busy week so far. The Belarusian has won two qualifying round matches, before he made his way into the main draw. In the first round, he defeated the Dutch, Tallon Griekspoor in straight sets to continue his fine form. He is yet to drop a set so far this tournament, and will hope to challenge Rafael Nadal on Wednesday.

Rafael Nadal vs Ilya Ivashka: Head-to-Head

The duo have never faced off against each other in the past, and the head to head stands at 0-0.

Rafael Nadal vs Ilya Ivashka: Match Prediction

Rafael Nadal is the certain favorite to defeat Ivashka and progress into the third round. The Spaniard has enjoyed plenty of success on clay courts, especially in Barcelona. Nadal’s service game was way-off the mark against Andrey Rublev last week, where he served several double faults. However, the Spaniard is known to bounce back from his defeats and he is expected to start the week with a straight sets victory.

Match Prediction: Rafael Nadal to win in straight sets

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