Novak Djokovic has setup a blockbuster clash with Rafael Nadal in the semifinal round of the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals in London, but the world No. 1 could be in trouble facing the rejuvenated Spaniard.

After a crisis of confidence and form in the first half of the season, Nadal seems to have found his elite level of tennis ever since his third-round defeat at the US Open against Fabio Fognini. According to Djokovic himself, Nadal is starting to play better and is getting comfortable on the court.

"It's a fact that he's been playing better and he's been raising his level ever since U.S. Open," Djokovic said, reports Reuters UK. "The couple of matches, first couple of matches he played here against Wawrinka and Murray showed that, showed that he feels more confident, shows that he's starting to miss less, serve efficiently, use his forehand much better."

Nadal has never dropped a set in his ATP World Tour Finals campaign against Stan Wawrinka and Andy Murray. In his match against world No. 2 Murray, Nadal edged a tight first set and then cruised in the second to win 6-4 6-1.

"It's an important victory because it puts me in a good position to try to be in the semi-finals, and at the same time I have a big day against a great player on a tough surface,” Nadal said, reports the BBC.

Roger Federer also thinks Nadal is getting closer to his top form. Federer, a career rival of the Spaniard, said he expects Nadal to “get stronger” and continue his great play into the Australian Open next year.

Meanwhile, Djokovic defeated Tomas Berdych 6-3 7-5 in the final Group Stan Smith round-robin match at The O2 Arena. Federer also advanced into the semifinal round and will have to wait the winner between Wawrinka and Murray.

Contact the writer at feedback@ibtimes.com.au, or let us know what you think below.

RELATED STORIES