Rafael Nadal vs. Novak Djokovic: Epic Showdown Sets Stage for Spectacular 2012

Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic left tennis fans hungry for more action from what is now a scintillating rivalry. 

Their showdown in the finals of the Australian Open was one for the ages, and it proved that these two are ready to delight fans all year. 

While these great players were also at the top of the tennis world last year, they were separated by a vast distance: Djokovic was No. 1 by miles. 

They met six times last year, and Nole won all six meetings with relative ease. This was in stark contrast to their previous head-to-head history, where Nadal had owned this matchup. 

What had remained constant, until this Australian Open, was that this was a one-sided rivalry, regardless of who was ahead. That fact came to an abrupt end. 

For a breathtaking five hours and 53 minutes, these two battled shot-for-grueling-shot. In the end, Djokovic squeaked out a 5-7, 6-4, 6-2, 6-7 (5), 7-5 five set victory, but the message was clear. Nadal is ready to compete with Djokovic. 

That is great news for Nadal, but it is also fantastic news for tennis fans. 

A Season Defining Rivalry

Neither of these players are going anywhere. They will be competing in tournaments all year, and they are going to wage some great battles. The improvements Nadal has made ensure that. 

Last year, Nadal battled through injuries and an ineffective strategy against Djokovic that found him getting dominated. 

Nadal made a few key adjustments in this match, compared to his contest last year with Djokovic. 

He made a point of getting his first serve in—even if he had to take something off it. This hampered Djokovic's attempts to batter him with his amazing return. 

Rafa was also much more likely to take his backhand down the line instead of beating it diagonally across the court. This allowed him to set up his punishing forehand. 

He also showed more willingness to come to the net, which helped lessen the threat of Nole's soft drop shots. 

And all of this led to Nadal playing with more confidence and aggression. Rafa was looking for winners on almost every point. And while it led to a high number of unforced errors (71) it also led to him getting some quick points. 

This match will give Rafa confidence, and a blueprint that will propel him to future success against the man that took his No. 1 ranking.