Nadal takes Toronto

Rafael Nadal held off a late surge from birthday boy Stefanos Tsitsipas to earn a 6-2, 7-6 (7/4) victory in the final of the Toronto Masters on Sunday.

Success in just under one and three-quarter hours handed the 32-year-old Spaniard a record extending 33rd trophy at the elite Masters level as he won his 80th career title and claimed his 40th match victory of the season.

During the trophy ceremony, the many local flag-waving Greeks in the crowd sang Happy Birthday to their new tennis hero.

"Happy Birthday to Stefanos," Nadal added. "Well done, you have a great future.

"It's been almost 10 years (2010) since I last played in Toronto," Nadal said of the event which comes to the city in even-number years as it trades with Montreal.

"I've missed you, I want to try and come more often. This trophy means a lot.

"I try to play every match with the highest possible passion, it's a special feeling that I have on court."

Meanwhile, Rafael Nadal withdrew from next week's ATP Cincinnati Masters event as he prepares for this month's US Open.

The Spaniard said in a statement following the win that he had decided to adjust his schedule in order to preserve his fitness.

"I am very sorry to announce that I won't be playing in Cincinnati this year," Nadal said.

"No other reason than personally taking care of my body and trying to keep as healthy as I feel now.

"I am very thankful to my friend Andre Silva, Tournament Director of the Cincinnati tournament, who after speaking to him on the phone understood what I said to him and understands the situation.

"I am sure the tournament will be a success and I wish him and his team all the best."

Tsitsipas took a defeat on his 20th birthday to conclude the tennis week of his life, which saw him beat four Top 10 opponent in a row to reach the title match.

"It's been an amazing week for me," the finalist said. "This trophy means a lot after playing my first Masters 1000 final."