Rafael Nadal could not reach the semi-final in Monte Carlo and Madrid last year. The Spaniard was eager to change that at the season’s last clay-court Masters 1000 event in Rome. Chasing the tenth crown at Foro Italico, Rafa faced probably the most formidable second-round rival at the start of the event, battling against the home star Jannik Sinner.Nadal prevailed 7-5, 6-4 in the last match of Wednesday’s program, finishing the clash around 21:20 and heading towards a short press conference. Knowing tomorrow’s schedule, Rafa could not spend much time with journalists, saying he needed to rest, as he was scheduled …