Age: 20, Grand Slams: 2 (2005, 2006 French Open)

The terrier from Mallorca is set to make a much-awaited return to Chennai.

Losing in the first round in 2004 to Thierry Ascione of France, Rafael Nadal took the doubles title with Tommy Robredo. After he pulled out from last year's edition due to injury, Chennai will be looking forward to some adrenaline pumping action from the 20-year-old.

In 2006, Nadal not only established as the best clay court player around but also showed that his desire was not restricted to the surface. He reached the final of Wimbledon and also succeeded in taking a set from Roger Federer.

The Spaniard compiled an outstanding 57-10 match record along with five titles and recorded an Open Era record 62-match clay court winning streak, surpassing Guillermo Vilas' mark of 53 in 1977.

Nadal, who beat Federer in four of the five finals in the year, has improved his serve and an all-round game to extend his dominance on other surfaces.
Photographs: Getty Images

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