Rafael Nadal reclaims world number one spot

Rafael Nadal will return to number one in the world rankings after his semi-final opponent, Czech star, Tomas Berdych retired injured at the China Open Saturday, capping an astonishing comeback for the 13-time Grand Slam champion.

The AFP reports that the Spanish world number two only needed to make the final in Beijing to edge ahead of Novak Djokovic in the new rankings, which will be announced by the ATP on Monday.
Nadal, who last topped the rankings in July 2011, has enjoyed a remarkable season, returning from injury to dominate the hardcourt tournaments.

Nadal told reporters after the match that returning to top spot had capped “a great year, one of the best years of my career without any doubt”.
“Sure is special be back to the top position of the ranking after more than a half year without playing tennis,” he added.

“I felt during all the season very excited every time I go on court.”