• ATP Tour

Nadal doesn't share my drive to be No. 1 - Federer

ESPN staff
February 16, 2010
Roger Federer won the year's first Grand Slam in Australia © Getty Images
Enlarge

Rafael Nadal does not share the same drive to be ranked as world No. 1 as Roger Federer does, according to the Swiss player.

Australian Open winner Federer is being tipped to emulate Rod Laver's achievements in 1969 by winning all four of the year's Grand Slams, but he insists that remaining top of the ATP rankings is his main focus.

"I'll try [to win all four], that's for sure," Federer told Reuters. "But it's not even number one on my to-do list. I'll just try to defend my No. 1 position.

"The first moment when I became No. 1 in the world was six years ago now and it was a magical moment in my career. It was pretty special and I always wanted to get back there.

"Some people have that drive more than others who've been number one. Rafa doesn't seem like he cares as much for number one, or he doesn't show it."

Federer had his four-year reign at the summit of the rankings ended by Nadal in August 2008, before he reclaimed top spot the next year.

The Spaniard has resumed training as he continues his comeback from the knee injury that forced him to withdraw from the Australian Open. The world No. 4 has pencilled in the BNP Paribas Open for his return to competitive action.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices