Rafael Nadal In Control Of Group A

What a difference a year makes… it does of you are Rafa Nadal who finds himself top of Group A at the ATP World Tour Finals, he didn’t even win a set this time twelve months ago.

Last night the world number one faced Novak Djokovic, a re-match of the U.S. Open final, in what was being billed as the clash of the group.

And it certainly started that way as both players came out firing, much to the delight of the capacity crowd at the O2.

While Nadal did look a little shaky on serve in the opening couple of games the opening four games saw no breaks as they were level at 2-2.

With the intensity rising it was Nadal who broke through first to lead 3-2. But he was unable to capitalise on this break through as Djokovic hit straight back to break the Spaniard and level the set once again at 3-3.

But then trouble struck for the Serb as he needed repeated treatment for an issue with a contact lense. The world number three looked visibly uncomfortable for the rest of the match - which effected him concentration and his game.

And Nadal took full advantage of his opponent’s misfortune as he broke for the second time in game eleven before serving for the set.

Into the second and Djokovic looked completely out of sorts, despite receiving extended treatment during the sit down,  as Nadal secured a double break to open up a 4-0 lead. 

Djokovic, who can still qualify despite this loss, did manage to get two service holds on the board but he was unable to claw back the double break as Nadal stormed to a 7-5 6-2 victory.

He now tops Group A with two win while Djokovic and Tomas Berdych are just behind on a win a piece.

"It was a very good match for me. I'm very sorry for Novak. I wish him all the best for his eyes. This was my best match in London.

“The first 10 games were very level but I'm just happy with the two victories.

Nadal is back in action on Friday when he faces Berdych, a re-match of the Wimbledon final, while Djokovic will take on Andy Roddick.

FemaleFirst Helen Earnshaw