The greatest: Rafael Nadal – mental and physical giant with a brutal forehand

In our series of the best playes of the past 50 years, we look at the Spaniard whose ferocious intensity, concentration and belief have given him 19 grand slam titles

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There are many images that stand out with Rafael Nadal. The lasso-like forehand that has wreaked havoc throughout his career; the pirate shorts and sleeveless shirts of his youth; the tics of his pre-serve routine; the forensic placement of his water bottles; the joyous fist-pumps and yells of “Si!” after another sensational winner.

But one thing sticks in the mind above all: his attitude. There has never been a moment when you could say Nadal has not given everything he had to try to win. Even Roger Federer has the odd day when his heart doesn’t quite seem in it. Nadal has rarely had a single point.

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