Analysis for Nadal-Roddick (ATP Queens)

Head-to-head record 2:2

Like we said yesterday, Nadal's playing style is best tailored for clay courts. Playing with a strong two-handed backhand, well-angled topspin heavy strokes, fast mobility on the court, excellent defense, and a preference to play from the deep court, he has developed into one of the, if not the best clay court players in the history of the game. Rafael Nadal is extremely athletic, and tends to go after every shot, even apparent winners from his opponents. However, he has been criticised by players for taking an extraordinary amount of time between points. Many people say he has the potential to win Wimbledon and become the Wolrd No.1 but we don´t think he can be that successful outside the clay. Well, he played Wimbledon´s final last year but it was more coincidence and friendly draw. The final match against Federer was affected by Roger´s fear from Spaniard. There are simply many players on the circuit whose style of play is much better suited to grass than Nadal´s style. Nadal wasn´t impressive against both Nishikori and Karlovic in the previous rounds and we don’t think he can be that lucky in every match he plays. Roddick possesses the similar serve as Karlovic but he is more competitive than Croat during the rallies. He is also heavily reliant on his serve but is also able to play the longer rallies from the baseline and if he keeps his nerves in breakers, he has a big chance to succeed here. We are happy to support him at odds above 2.