After Rafael Nadal beat Roger Federer in last weekend's finals of the International Series in Dubai, he burst into tears. It was more than just his victory over the world's number one-Nadal had overcome a career-threatening injury to his foot.

After a break out year in 2005 in which he won eight tour events including the French Open, these were difficult days for the fast rising player but adversity brings out the best in champions. Obviously Nadal's victory over the Swiss star in just his second tournament of his comeback is a major statement that he is healthy and ready to build on last year's result.

It is hard not to like Nadal. He has great passion for the game, with his intensity and competitiveness reminding us of the legendary Jimmy Connors. The way he charges onto the court for the warm-up and bounces up and down before the coin toss reminds you of a prizefighter. He has the body language of a champion. Look at his eyes and his focus and concentration are intimidating. Nadal is also one of the fittest players on the ATP tour and has raised the bar for fitness training.

Born in Manacor, Mallorca, he showed great athletic skills at a young age. Nadal was very good at soccer and tennis but realised early that he had a special gift on the tennis court. Being left-handed, he had a huge advantage over other players. With the talent he possessed and his huge work ethic, it was not a surprise to many in tennis's inner circle to see his meteoric rise. At just 19 years of age, he has an astounding 131-40 record, 13 singles titles and $4,808,579 in prize money. With endorsements, it is safe to say he has earned over $10 million.

Footwork, fitness and physical strength are the foundations of Nadal's game, enabling him to run around and hit his favourite shot (forehand) and dictate the pace of a match. His ability to manipulate the topspin and the amazing head speed of his racket makes him very dangerous on any surface. To top it off, he has a solid backhand, adequate volleys and a great touch. It was breathtaking to see the drop shot winners he produced throughout the fortnight of last year's French Open. Nadal's weaknesses are his serve and transition game. For him to have a legitimate shot at being number one, he needs to generate more pace on his serve and get more free points, especially on faster surfaces.

Federer's dominance of men's tennis has been a major concern for the ATP tour. People have lost interest in the game because the number one has no rivals. Great rivalries make the game exciting for fans and boost its popularity. In the past, McEnroe/Borg, Becker/Edberg and Sampras/Agassi took the game to great heights. I believe the answer to Federer's dominance is Nadal. He is the opposite of Roger in every sense of the word. He shows his emotions, plays physical tennis and is a great counter puncher.

The fact that he has a winning record over Roger is great. They have played four times and Nadal has won three of those. Let the rivalry begin!