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Australian Open Top Ten Men’s Contenders

By Christopher Weis

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Sep 4, 2015; New York, NY, USA; Rafael Nadal of Spain waves to the crowd as he leaves the court after his match against Fabio Fognini of Italy (not pictured) on day five of the 2015 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Fognini won 3-6, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 4, 2015; New York, NY, USA; Rafael Nadal of Spain waves to the crowd as he leaves the court after his match against Fabio Fognini of Italy (not pictured) on day five of the 2015 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Fognini won 3-6, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

Rafael Nadal is in this situation because of his history, without a doubt. He has won the Australian Open before, defeating Roger Federer in 2009.  He’s won 14 Grand Slams and is one of the best players of all time.

Despite all these plaudits, Nadal had, for him, an extremely average season in 2015. He did not add to his totals in terms of Grand Slam titles. In Australia, he was unceremoniously drummed out in the quarterfinals in straight sets by Tomas Berdych.  In short, he was not able to defend his runner-up at the Aussie from 2014.

What does Nadal need to do to win? First of all, have a little luck.  Second of all, most likely beat Stan Wawrinka in the quarterfinals.  Both doable.  Then, however, his road would get trickier with Andy Murray likely waiting in the quarterfinals.  Doable? Yes. Difficult? Absolutely.

Next: 4. The Other Swiss Star

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