It's only when Roger Federer plays one spirited left-hander from Mallorca is the result not a foregone conclusion. Out of the five losses the Swiss great suffered last season, it was Rafael Nadal who was smiling on four occasions — be it on the red dirt at Roland Garros, Rome and the Monte Carlo Masters or the hard courts in Dubai, Nadal has ensured that life on the Tour is not a smooth road for one Mr Federer.

So what is it that’s different about Nadal? “His mental stability and stamina stands out from Federer,” reveals Francis Roig who has been the Spaniard’s coach for a year now. While Nadal’s uncle, Toni, travels with him for all the major tournaments, Roig is around for the rest.

But isn’t there too much pressure on the 20-year-old? “Yes, he feels the pressure. More so now when people expect him to win every match. But he can handle it,” says Roig after his ward is done with his round of practice with David Nalbandian on the Centre Court at the SDAT Stadium here. He pauses before adding: “Nadal may be one of the youngest players around, but he’s more mature than others. He’s very sharp and eager to learn.”

The two-time former French Open champion missed the early part of last season, including the Australian Open, due to injuries. And, Roig admits his ward had to work very hard to get back on the court. “It was hard work, but Nadal wanted to come back as the same player. He doesn’t give up. He’s a fighter,” says the coach.

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