Nadal shows his title credentials

World number one demonstrated why he is favourite to win the ATP Tour Finals at the O2 Arena with a straight sets win over Novak Djokovic.

The victory, completed in an hour and 51 minutes, was Nadal’s second win of the
tournament and puts him top of Group A, virtually secure of a place in the
semi-finals.

World number three Djokovic could point to a problem with eyes towards the end
of the first set as a reason for his defeat.

Those just keeping up to date with the latest
scores may not be aware that Djokovic had to
have treatment for a complaint related to his right contact lens with the game
crucially tied at 5-5.

With his sight impaired Djokovic lost the first set 7-5 before losing his
opening two service games of the second set to allow Nadal to take a 4-0 lead
and leave him on the brink of defeat. Those following the live tennis scores would have known the game was up at this stage, that is for sure.

It was a disappointing way to finish and it is hoped that it will not prove a
persistent problem as the Slovakian needs a win over Andy Roddick – who is
level with him in the standings – in order to
progress.

That isn’t to take anything away from Nadal, who displayed glimpses of his best
form to fully take advantage of Djokovic’s impediment and set up the win.

Twelve months ago a weary Nadal failed to win a set at last year’s tournament
but after another trophy filled year he appears ready to set the record
straight.