Qatar Open: Federer and Nadal Cruise

Roger Federer, who finished 2009 ranked number 1 in the world, had a good start to his 2010 tennis season defeating Christophe Rochus in the first round of the Qatar Open at Doha. The Swiss star, who lost the US Open and the year ending Barclay's ATP Finals, will be looking to quickly get some titles under his belt before the Australian Open later this month. He started his campaign in style with an easy 6-1 6-2 straight set victory over his Belgian opponent. With his usual dominant gameplay, Federer had 12 aces and almost 50 winners in his victory.

Rafael Nadal, who had a dismal end to last year, (not counting the Davis Cup victories) also started this year on a brighter note. Playing against Simone Bolelli, Nadal cruised to a 6-3 6-3 straight set victory. Plagued with injury problems last year, Nadal lost the number 1 ranking he took from Federer and finished the year number 2. Losing the French Open for the first time in 4 years, Nadal will also be looking to improve on his performance from last year. He will also want to put the past year behind him and get some victories before defending his title at the Australian Open.

Both men were happy with their victories, with Federer saying, "I got good practice in Abu Dhabi and I was able to create points. It was good to get on a roll. My movement was explosive. I am happy how I played." Good news for Federer fans all over the word. Nadal also commented on his victory, saying, "I tried my best there. I gave 100% in the match. I got good practice in Abu Dhabi and that gave me good rhythm for this match. Bolelli plays good shots so this was a tough match."

Though both matches were comparatively easy for the stars, they have passed the initial test without any hiccups. With the close rivalry between these two players, it will be interesting to see how the year shapes up. Nadal has lost some of his bulk from last year, and looks to be free from the injuries that almost ruined his last year, while Federer is looking the same...fit and dominant. The question is....can Nadal remain fit throughout the grueling tennis year and clinch that number 1 spot again? Or will Federer be able to continue his consistency of being in all the major finals and stretch his records further. A very interesting tennis season indeed, and right from the word go.

Roger Federer will play Russian Evgeny Korolev in his second round match while Nadal will play Italian Potito Starace in his second round match. Stay tuned...