Rafael Nadal against Novak Djokovic, Madrid Masters 2011
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It’s no secret that clay is Rafael Nadal’s favourite surface, and he has won the ATP Masters Madrid Open four times, of seven finals in addition to his many other clay wins. This time, Nadal was up against one of his arch-rivals, Novak Djokovic, on clay, with the Serb up a set.
At 30-0 (this seems like a popular score for players to pull off tweeners at!), Nadal raced in a quick back-and-forth volley with Djokovic, sending some big shots in and even running to the net.
Although his game is beautiful to watch, Nadal is not known to routinely attempt trick shots. On this occasion, however, Djokovic returned Nadal’s shot at the net by rushing the net himself.
Racing to the baseline to return, Nadal turned only for a moment to judge Djokovic’s position on the court, following which he sent a shot between his legs, one that appeared only closely to almost nip at his ankle – and it lands well in, with Djokovic unable to get it.
Already behind their favourite player, the home crowds erupted in cheers for the former No. 1, with even Djokovic stopping to applaud.
Despite some brilliant shotmaking, however, it was Djokovic who would end up winning that title.
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