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Rafael Nadal stepped up his recovery from injury and illness as he outlasted Frenchman Gael Monfils to claim the ninth Monte Carlo Masters title of his career yesterday.

Nadal shared two tightly competitive sets with his opponent before turning on the style in the decider for a 7-5 5-7 6-0 win for his first tour title of the year.

The Spaniard's win also ensures he matches world number one Novak Djokovic by winning his 28th career Masters title.

Victory capped a stunning week for Nadal, who has struggled for form since taking seven months out because of a knee injury, and withdrew from last month's Miami Open due to a virus. — Sportinglife