Returning To World No.1 is ‘Something Special’ – Nadal

Rafael Nadal has said his return to No 1 in the world for the first time since 2014 is “special”, and he is determined to kick on and win more this season.

The Spanish professional tennis player is expected to return to the top spot next Monday, following the world No. 3 Roger Federer’s announcement on Monday that he has withdrawn from this week’s W&S Open in Cincinnati, citing back injury.

Federer’s withdrawal means Nadal, who lost in the third round at Montreal, will return to No. 1 when new ATP rankings are released Aug. 21. The Spaniard will be No. 1 for the first time since July 6, 2014.

“Obviously its bad news for the event that Roger is not playing,” Nadal said at his pre-tournament press conference.

“For me, personally, obviously to be back to that position is something special.

“A lot of things have happened since the last time I was in this spot.

“Injuries and some tough moments, of course, but I have held the passion and the love for the game, and that’s why I have the chance to be back in that position again.

“I’m just trying to enjoy the moment and just trying to be ready to compete well here. That’s the most important thing for me now.”

“I am having a great season,

“I have been playing great. I think I am practising well, too. I think I am ready to compete.

“Roger and I are both having a great season. I think both of us are going to have the chance to be in that position [No 1] until the end of the season.

“It depends on the results… So let’s see. I have an opportunity here to compete well this week and I’m going to try to do it.” The 31-year-old added.

Nadal first ascended to No 1 in the world in August 2008, at the age of just 22, and spent a total of 141 weeks at the top during his career.