Going into the match it had to be said that Federer was favourite to win it, Nadal was looking tiered and a shoulder injury was said to be causeing problems. Federer on the other hand may have lost to Djokovic but he appeared fresher and more prepared than Nadal did.
So it was a surprise when Nadal took the first set with relative ease, 6-1
The second set was closer, Nadal broke early but Federer broke back straight away after a double fault from Nadal (Perhaps due to his shoulder injury). A close battle followed, some great tennis was played and we got a few smiles from Nadal, even getting a point after hitting the ball between his legs - usually a Federer move!
The 11th game was a thriller, Nadal was after a win so he could serve for the match but Federer stood in his way and stopped him time and time again, but after 6 attempts Nadal eventually broke!
Nadal prevailed in the end, taking 3rd place, a good win for Nadal and both players must now be feeling confident about the up-coming season after a decent performance at an exhibition match.
Afterwards Federer seemed calm and appeared to be looking forward to the coming season, he also spoke about the development of sport in Abu Dhabi and the surrounding region, he is truly a great ambassoder for the sport.
Nadal said the tournament was great preperation for the Australian Open, and spoke of his shoulder problem but mentioned he was playing his best in practise.
I feel Nadal is playing down his chances for the Australian Open, planning a suprise attack on his opponent.
We can all look forward to the final this afternoon!
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