Nadal: The Greatest at the Moment

Rafa Nadal's intensity made him the better player in this year's Australian Open final against Roger Federer.

The first Spaniard to win the title at Melbourne was simply to passionate and fired up to be stopped.

Both players were in fine form and from the start the standard of tennis was a cut above the rest.

Nadal's semi against Verdasco was good, but somehow the anticipation was that the epic battle between the world's top two was going to be a little better and more engrossing…and it was.

Both players came out with clear game-plans. Nadal fired everything at Federer's backhand, while the Swiss tried to tire the Spaniard.

What must have been frustrating for Federer however were the relentless returns from Rafa, whose scrambling made for some of the best rallies and points during the marathon match.

Federer certainly had chances to win the match and his 14th grand-slam, but I think he lack! ed a killer instinct or the ability to use his emotions positively.

The player chasing the title of 'greatest of all time' was motivated to win and his tears during the presentation ceremony made that clear, but whether he can use that emotion to help him win matches, is questionable.

Nadal plays to the limit on almost every point and his motivation is clear to see in every shot.

I think Federer needs to utilise the energy that comes with nerves and emotions, and at the same time maintain his focus and calm.

This is what Rafa has been able to do and that's why he's the greatest at the moment.