Tennis: Injured Nadal draws inspiration from Ronaldo

SAO PAULO (AP) - Rafael Nadal is drawing inspiration from Brazilian football great Ronaldo to continue his successful return from injury.

With Ronaldo watching, Nadal took an important step on Sunday by winning the Brazil Open for his first title after a seven-month layoff to treat his left knee. Now the world No. 5 wants to repeat the Brazilian's successful story of recovery from much more serious injuries.

Nadal says Ronaldo is "an example" to be followed because of his determination to rebound from a series of knee injuries that threatened his career.

Despite winning again, the Spaniard is still bothered by his knee and says he is far from fully recovered, although he hopes the victory in front of Ronaldo will mark a new beginning in his career.