Roger Federer Beats Rafael Nadal to Win Miami Open, 91st Career Title

In January, Roger Federer ousted Rafael Nadal on his way to the Australian Open title. A little less than three months later, he did it again in Miami.

Federer defeated Nadal 6-3, 6-4 on Sunday to win the 2017 Miami Open, his third singles title and second consecutive tournament win. The world No. 6 has won 12 straight matches overall since his disappointing loss to Evgeny Donskoy in Dubai. 

He now has 91 career titles, which puts him three behind Ivan Lendl for second all-time. Jimmy Connors has the most singles championships with 109. This is the third time Federer has pulled off the so-called Sunshine Double, having won March 19's BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California.

Bet365 provided stats on Federer's season:

A competitive match throughout, it came down to how Nadal and Federer played break points. Federer saved all four of Nadal's chances at a break, while the Swiss broke the Spaniard twice—once in both sets to take the advantage.

Jason Gay of the Wall Street Journal is pleased to have Nadal and Federer back playing at a high level:

Federer's second break came with the deciding set tied 4-4. He wound up winning 71 points to Nadal's 56 and dominated on his first-serve opportunities. Nadal won just five points on Federer's first serve the entire match.

Federer recorded five aces and was solid on his second-serve points, winning 48 percent. Overall, Nadal won just 27 percent of his return points. 

Federer won 40 percent of return points against Nadal's service. 

At age 35, Federer is already on pace to have one of the best—if not the best—season for a person of his age. His age-defying tactics have only increased his legacy, which is that of the most decorated player of the modern era.

It's also Federer's fourth consecutive win over Nadal, which was preceded by a five-win streak for the Spaniard.   

Post-Match Reaction

Federer spoke on ESPN about the importance of the serve (h/t Richard Pagliaro of Tennis Now): "I thought (the serve) was totally key because he looked good from the get-go. He was playing big tennis, stepping in doing all the right things … Maybe a wrong decision by me in that (break point) moment, and I think it would turn quickly. It was an intense first set—could have gone either way.

"Second set, we didn't have much chances on return games, eventually I got a few important ones and played the right way just as I have all year … It's so crucial against a great return player like him to always protect your serve." 

Nadal discussed Federer's comeback: "(Roger has made) one of the best comebacks ever from a long injury, so well done. I'm very happy for you. Was a good start to the season playing already three finals. Disappointing for me. I am trying during all my career l am in this position, but with the smaller trophy. I gonna keep trying hard for the next couple of years."

Federer discussed his age: "I'm not 24 anymore so things have changed in a big way. I probably won't play any clay-court events except the French. I need a rest. My body needs healing—you'll probably see me at the French again."