Australian Open 2017: Five reasons why Rafael Nadal will defeat Roger Federer in the finals

#2 The superiority of Nadal’s forehand over Federer’s single-handed backhand

Federer hitting a backhand against Nadal at the 2014 Australian Open

It is Nadal’s style of play that bothers Federer so frequently in their match-ups. It is evident that the Spaniard comes to life when playing against players who possess a one-handed backhand. He often looks to force his opponent into engaging in crosscourt rallies (his forehand to opponent’s backhand) before firing his trademark forehand down the line.

It has proved to be very effective time and again and was very much on display in the semi-final match against Grigor Dimitrov. The reason why it is so effective is that Nadal’s forehand has so much topspin in it, that the ball shoots up extremely high off the court. Thus it becomes difficult to control the backhand with only one hand.

And it is not too risky on Nadal’s part. If Federer constantly engages in these rallies with the southpaw, then it will be a very long night for the Swiss on Rod Laver Arena.