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Miami Open: Top Mens Contenders

By Nate Slaymaker

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Mar 30, 2014; Miami, FL, USA; Rafael Nadal hits a forehand against Novak Djokovic (not pictured) during the men

The rankings are important to Nadal for seeding purposes heading into his clay court season.

1. Rafael Nadal

2015 Record: 14-2

Career at Miami Open: 34-9

Best Finish at Miami Open: F (’14, ’11, ’08, ’05)

Nadal is one of the more methodical and regimented players when it comes to rankings and race points. Going into Indian Wells, he stated that he hoped to earn at least 1200 points from the two Masters Series events in March. The rankings are important to Nadal for seeding purposes heading into his clay court season. His quarterfinal exit at Indian Wells earned him only 180, so he will not reach his goal. He will be desperate to put up a good result in Miami.

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Before Indian Wells, Nadal did not look himself and was not a favorite in California. Although he exiting early at the hands of Raonic, Nadal played like he had regained his confidence. He was more assertive from the baseline, pushing forward instead of being content relying on his superb retrieval skills. Nadal’s serve was back to being the weapon it needs to be. He is ready for prime time hard court play.

Nadal is a four time runner up at Miami and is hungry to add to his record 27 Masters titles. The draw shaped up nicely for the world No.3. He could face Berdych in the quarters and avenge the loss in Melbourne. If Nadal is in the semifinal of an event, he has a good chance of winning it. When he doesn’t make an early exit, Nadal usually finds the finals.

Next: Top 10 Best Returners in Tennis

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