Saturday, May 10, 2014

Djokovic back; Nadal strong in Madrid

Novak Djokovic is set to return in Rome where he has twice been champion.

Novak Djokovic to return to ATP tour in Rome after injury

Rafael Nadal on course to defend Madrid Open title

Nadal plays Kei Nishikori or David Ferrer in Sunday’s final

Maria Sharapova to play Simona Halep in women’s final in Madrid

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(CNN) — Injury doubt Novak Djokovic has confirmed his participation, new dad Roger Federer is a maybe, but they will go into the Rome Masters next week in the knowledge their old nemesis Rafael Nadal is finding his feet on clay again after some shock recent defeats.

Nadal booked his participation in his 90th ATP Tour final with a 6-4 6-3 win over fellow Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut at the Madrid Open Saturday — always in command in the one hour 43 minute clash.

Nadal, who is the defending champion at the Masters 1000 event, lost in the quarterfinals at Monte Carlo and Barcelona to David Ferrrer and Nicolas Almagro to show rare vulnerability on his favorite surface.