MADRID: Andy Murray beat Rafael Nadal on clay for the first time Sunday, dominating the Madrid Open final to win 6-3, 6-2 against the four-time champion.
It was Murray's first Masters title on clay, a week after his maiden career tournament victory on the red surface at the Munich Open.
Murray dictated most of the long rallies, which lasted up to 24 strokes, displaying a level of confidence that has often been lacking for the Briton on clay.
He broke twice to take a 4-0 lead in the second set and clinched the win when Nadal sent a forehand return into the net.
The second-seeded Murray said felt under pressure until the end, "but I went for my shots."
It was Nadal's fourth loss on clay this year, raising questions about his ability to win a 10th French Open title.