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.

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3

David Ferrer

One of the most consistent players of his generation, Ferrer has reached the final in Barcelona four times in his career. However, he’s been unable to break through, falling to Nadal each time. Ferrer is tied with Guillermo Vilas for most final-round appearances without winning the tournament.

4

Carlos Moya

Seeded second at the 2003 edition of the tournament, former finalist Moya won the event over Safin—much to the delight of the home crowd. This was the first, and only, title the former world No. 1 would ever win in Spain.

5

Fernando Verdasco

From 2005 to 2009, Nadal won the title every year. When he missed the 2010 edition due to fatigue, Verdasco extended the Spanish winning streak to eight years running with a three-set win over Robin Soderling.

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