Seven years on from his last appearance here Rafa returned to Hamburg. Last time he was ranked number 2 and had to beat the world number 3 to retain that ranking and then the world number 1 to take the title. This year, he came in ranked world number 10 but was the top seed.

In doubles, Rafa partnered with fellow Mallorcan, 18-year old Jaume Munar. They lost to the top-seeded team of Simone Bolelli and Fabio Fognini in the first round, 4-6, 2-6.

Then it was on to the singles.

Straight out of the blocks he was up against Fernando Verdasco who beat him in Miami earlier this year. It was a tad worrying when he lost the first set but he put a stop to Verdasco's mini streak of victories by demolishing him in the next two sets to win, 3-6, 6-1, 6-1.

He struggled a bit against Jiri Vesely, who he'd never played before, but won, 6-4, 7-6(2).

It was a bit easier to beat Pablo Cuevas, 6-3, 6-2, in the quarter final. In the semis he had a medical time out for some sort of cramp or stitch that gave him problems breathing but still beat Andreas Seppi 6-1, 6-2.

He was in the final against Fabio Fognini who had beaten him twice this year on clay. It must have done some good to his fragile confidence, therefore to beat him, 7-5, 7-5.

We all know it hasn't been the best of years for Rafa so we are all thrilled that he won this title. It's so great to have another winning celebration.

¡Enhorabuena, Rafa!
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