Rafael Nadal: John McEnroe reveals key reason behind Nadal's stunning US Open win
RAFAEL NADAL’S serve has improved immeasurably since he came onto the ATP Tour and his serve was key to his US Open triumph.
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Those are the thoughts of tennis legend John McEnroe.
Nadal defeated Kevin Anderson in New York for his 16th Grand Slam title.
The Spaniard finished the season as the world number one despite pulling out of the ATP World Tour finals in London through injury.
And McEnroe thinks Nadal’s serve has made him more even harder to player against.
When discussing tactics about how to beat the Big Four, McEnroe said: “He serves much better than when he came on Tour.
Rafael Nadal has improved his serve a lot
He serves much better than when he came on Tour
"I think that's part of why he was able to win the (US) Open.
“You can serve a lot harder, but he's worked on the place, he's got some nice looking spin, and lefties are so damn-good looking.”
Nadal meanwhile, claimed a special award last week when he was named ITF World Champion.
On receiving the accolade, he reserved praise for his uncle Toni, who no longer works as the player’s coach.
John McEnroe has been impressed with Rafael Nadal's serve
He said: “I am very happy to receive this award from the ITF and be the 2017 ITF World Champion.
“It is four years since I last finished No 1 on the ATP rankings and this has a special feeling.
“Congrats also to Garbine on her achievement which is great for our country.
“Many thanks to my team and my fans, and a special thank you to my uncle Toni for all these years.”