Rafael Nadal: Why Rafa Will Be No. 1 Again

Rafael Nadal cruised to the second round of the Australian Open with an easy win over Alex Kuznetsov in straight sets, and played like he did when he was dominating tennis before his recent injuries.

Nadal will reach the Australian Open final this month, and even if he doesn't win it, he will certainly rise to the No. 1 ranking in men's tennis this season.

The Spanish star got through his first-round match in Melbourne without showing any noticeable discomfort in his knee or shoulder, two areas that have been affecting him physically recently.

When Nadal is injury-free, he is the best player in the sport. He dominates any surface and has the unique combination of speed, quickness, power and tennis smarts.

Nadal is an experienced champion and a player who has the confidence that he can win against any opponent.

Rival star Roger Federer could be Nadal's opponent in the semifinals at Melbourne this month, and there's no reason why Rafa won't continue his dominance over the Swiss star. Nadal is 17-9 all-time against Federer, and has won the last four Grand Slam finals he played Federer in.

Nadal reached three Grand Slam finals last season despite battling injuries and facing stiffer competition from the likes of Novak Djokovic.

With a fierce determination to regain his No. 1 ranking, and to be fully ready and playing well heading into the Summer Olympics in London, which Nadal really wants to defend his gold medal in.

The Spanish star is going to raise his game and dominate tennis this year.

Nadal is a champion, and when people criticize champion's ability to win and compete at a high level, they respond in a positive way.

Expect Nadal to dominate this season and reclaim his No. 1 ranking.