Tennis: Rafa Nadal edges Zverev to Win Italian Open in Rome

Rafa Nadal made the best of a rain delay to come from behind in the deciding set and beat defending champion Alexander Zverev 6-1 1-6 6-3 in the Italian Open final on Sunday.

The win gave the Spaniard his 56th title on clay and he will reclaim the world number one ranking from Roger Federer when the revised ATP standings are released on Monday.

“My first victory here in 2005 was one of the most beautiful victories of my career,” Nadal said after collecting his eighth title in Rome, yet his first since 2013.

“To have this trophy again with me after so many years is really very special.”

 Nadal made a shaky start, losing his serve in the opening game before bouncing back.