With Rafael Nadal experiencing monumental success at the Barcelona Open over the years, it might be hard to recall that other Spaniards have also made their mark at one of the most prestigious tournaments of the clay-court season.
After a drought during the 1980s, where no home favorites reached the final, the “Spanish Armada” came on strong in the ’90s, with Emilio Sanchez, Sergi Bruguera, Albert Costa and more playing for the title.
That trend continued through the 2000s—even around the emergence of Nadal. Here’s a look at some of the standouts.
1
Juan Carlos Ferrero
In 2000, “the Mosquito” reached the biggest final of his career in Barcelona, falling to Marat Safin in straight sets. A year later, the young Spaniard went a step further, taking the title in a five-set battle against his compatriot, 1998 French Open champion Carlos Moya.
2
Tommy Robredo
Right before Nadal’s extended reign at the tournament began in 2005, Robredo took home the title in 2004 with a five-set win over Gaston Gaudio of Argentina. Robredo also reached the final in 2006, and reached the quarterfinals on four other occasions.