The Spaniard took the first set 6-3 as he looked to reach the semi-finals of a tournament that he has won just once.

However, Cilic claimed the second set, and Nadal retook the lead after taking the third on a tie-break.

Nadal’s mobility was clearly reduced in the fourth set – during which have physio treatment – which Cilic took easily, 6-2.

 This was their 7th meeting and the first win for Marin over Rafa since 2009 when they played for the first time, giving his everything to overcome a shaky opponent who was far from his best, struggling physically more and more as the match progressed.

Marin was the more aggressive player and he kept the point son his racquet, finishing the match with 83 winners, and he recovered nicely after losing the third set to dominate in the following 10 games before the Spaniard decided to retire.