MIAMI - Canadian Milos Raonic put up a fight but could not earn the upset as top seed Rafael Nadal recovered to win their quarter-final matchup in a 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 comeback at the Sony Open Thursday.
The Thornhill, Ont., product cemented his return next week to the ATP top 10 as he won his first career set against Nadal after four losses in the series.
Raonic rolled over slightly on his ankle as he dived for a return in the third set but appeared to shake it off near the end of the two-hour, 34 minute struggle.
The Canadian was held to eight aces and one break for serve from just three chances. He had 28 winners to Nadal's 26.
Raonic and Nadal duelled for 52 minutes in a tight opening set. The only true opening came in the final game.
Nadal lost his first career set against Raonic as he sent over a perfect stop volley which dropped dead near Nadal's net, giving the 12th seed set point while leading 5-4.
