Rafael Nadal says he enjoys playing at both Indian Wells and Miami, but weather-wise, the California desert is easier on his body. Nadal lost to Milos Raonic in the quarterfinals last week at Indian Wells, but has won three titles there before. He’s never won a Miami title, though he has reached four finals.
“I think is true that play with less humidity is easier for the body,” Nadal said after his second-round win over Nicolas Almagro in Miami. “During my career I had more success in Indian Wells than here. I think I won three times, played another final, and couple of semifinals. Indian Wells has been a tournament that worked better historically for my game. I think the bounces are higher. But here I played four finals, another quarterfinals.
“I cannot say a tournament that I don't like. I like here. I like the conditions. There is some days that can be very humid and hard for the body, but in general they are the conditions I like to play tennis. Sea level, hot, no—no problem.”