I had a tough choice this time, picking which player deserved player of the month honor’s. There were many good results from lower ranked players, most notably, Nicolas Almagro (ESP) who captured both Brazil and Mexico, during the South American swing. The Spaniard, will surely be 1 of the favorites at this years French Open. Robin Soderling (SWE), also had a great month, reaching the finals or Rotterdam as well as Memphis. How about Michael Llodra (FRA) or Andy Murray (GBR), who both locked up there 2nd title’s of 2008, with Rotterdam and Marseille respectively. The final decision did go to “King David” from Argentina, as David Nalbandian proved to me that his fitness is back to where it should be by making 2 tough claycourt finals in a row.

At this point last season, many were questioning Nalbandian’s resolve and dedication towards the sport. The 26 year old, was fading fast with his ranking dropping 26 in the world by June 18,2007. The native of Cordoba, Argentina was at a career crossroads. He had only one lone, quarter-final result in Barcelona to show for his year, and 1st round exits were becoming the norm. What Nalbandian needed were some good results and the fall indoor season seemed to wake him up. Typically a good indoor player, David was looking to recapture the form that took him to the title at the 2005, Tennis Masters Cup. David, sure did deliver! Going on a tear at the end of the year, the Argentine racked up both Masters Series titles in Madrid and Paris. Winning back to back masters series shields is impressive enough, but perhaps what was even more impressive was the line up for players he took out on his way to victory. Nalbandian, beat Roger Federer (SUI) and Rafeal Nadal (ESP) in both tournaments, as well as Novak Djokovic (SBR), David Ferrer (ESP), Richard Gasquet (FRA), Tomas Berdych, (CZE), and Carlos Moya (ESP) to name a few. Any tennis fan will be hard pressed to find a player that beats the top 2 players in the world, in 2 consecutive events. I had some concern’s, towards David’s start to 2008, with his early exit in Australia. But the last 2 weeks made me a believer again as Nalbandian won the title in Argentina and made the finals in Mexico. King David, is now number 7 in the world, and I believe the top 4 is within reach!

When you beat Roger Federer 8 times, you certainly have attributes to your game that are worth mentioning. David’s, two-hand down the line backhand, is his best shot, along with some of the best court sense in the world. His game is based around tactically creating fits for his opponents. His serve is underrated, as it does not register the highest mph on the radar gun, it does allow him to get ahead in points and dictate with his backhand. His return of serve and volleys are also solid, and are a contributing factor as to why David has reached, the semi-finals or better in all 4 grand slams. His fitness level, will always be of concern to me, however, every time I count this guy out, he suprises me with how well he holds up in big matches. I can not remember the last time Nalbandian, pulled out of a match, and how many times he finds himself out of trouble, in a 5 set match. I remember watching David, a few years back at the Aussie Open, in the 1st round. During the 1st game he was pouring with sweat. I remember thinking, that he is going to fade big time and lose in the 1st round. Only to see him win the match in 40 degree heat, in 5 sets. David is such a poised, tactical player that he should never be counted out!

The Argentine, with Armenian decent, further explaining his last name, loves to unwind by fishing or watching rally cars. He also enjoys playing soccer and watching his favorite team River Plate. I believe 2008, will be a big year for Nalbandian. His window for winning a grand slam is starting to close and for him to not win a slam, giving how gifted a player he is, would truly be disappointing. David, is currently ranked number 7 in the world, with practically no points to defend, until after the U.S. Open. Do not be surprised if you see King David, back in the top 4 and vying for the remainder of the years grand slams.

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