Rafael Nadal Parera (IPA: [rafa'el na'ðal]) (born June 3, 1986, in Manacor, Mallorca) is a Spanish professional tennis player. As of September 2007, he is ranked No. 2 in the world. He is a three-time Grand Slam champion, having won three consecutive French Open singles titles (2005-07), and has twice been a runner-up at Wimbledon (2006-07). Nadal is undefeated in his career at the French Open, having won all 21 matches he has played en route to his three championships. He also holds the longest winning streak among male players on a single surface in the open era. From April 2005 to May 2007, he won a record 81 consecutive clay court matches, before being defeated by World Number One Roger Federer in the 2007 Hamburg Masters final.Nadal's playing style is best tailored for clay courts, with a strong two-handed backhand, well-angled topspin strokes, fast mobility on the court, and a preference to play from the deep court. He is naturally right-handed, but he plays left-handed, and uses his dominant hand as an anchor for his two-handed backhand. His two-handed backhand is extremely reliable, tending to hit winners on the run as well as standing still. Nadal is extremely athletic, and tends to go after every shot, even apparent winners from his opponents.[21]
Nadal's serve is not considered one of his strengths, but can be relied upon for consistency and also for some short-point wins (aces, serve-return errors, and serve-return sitters).[21] With excellent accuracy, power, and consistency, his topspin groundstroke is one of his assets. He incorporates a defensive-playing style most of the time, but often becomes offensive as well.[22]
Overall, Nadal is an aggressive counterpuncher, forcing his opponents to make errors with his powerful topspin, his speed, and his athleticism.
Nadal's serve is not considered one of his strengths, but can be relied upon for consistency and also for some short-point wins (aces, serve-return errors, and serve-return sitters).[21] With excellent accuracy, power, and consistency, his topspin groundstroke is one of his assets. He incorporates a defensive-playing style most of the time, but often becomes offensive as well.[22]
Overall, Nadal is an aggressive counterpuncher, forcing his opponents to make errors with his powerful topspin, his speed, and his athleticism.
