Rafa Nadal has beaten Gael Monfils overnight to claim the Monte Carlo Open.

Nadal won the final 7-5, 5-7, 6-0 in just over two hours to kick off his clay season in style.

โ€œWinning nine times here is something unbelievable for me. Outside of that, that is something so special. Compete well two weeks in a row is something so positive,โ€ Nadal said.

โ€œI have another chance next week in Barcelona, I going to try my best again.โ€

The nine-time French Open Champion, who has endured a horror run with injuries, said it was an emotional win.

โ€œI have been working hard. Last year was a tough year โ€” I don't want to talk about it anymore, I was nervous during the matches.

โ€œIt is hard work every day to slow down that (problem). The victories help. but I'm still not 100 per cent perfect, I don't have that (emotional and weakened) feeling I had last year on court.

โ€œI'm very happy for that. I'm playing better. It's obvious.โ€