In 2012, 26-year old Nicolas Almagro is having his strongest year since turning professional in 2003. Compared to his fellow competitors, Nicolas (Almagro Sanchez) often called “Nico” started later than most at a relatively mature 8-years old. Nico’s favorite shot is his forehand. Unlike most of his compatriots, he still uses a one-handed backhand which often puts him in a defensive mode. Like his fellow Spaniards, Nico’s surface of choice is clay.

Nicolas Almagro

Unfortunately that is also the favorite of high-profile players Rafael Nadal, the 2012 French Open bookmaker favorite and 6^th seed David Ferrer. In his quarterfinal match on Wednesday, Almagro will be up against the odds and the world’s best clay courter, Nadal. Like Nico’s teammates, Nadal seems to have a mental edge over his Spanish comrades.

Many of his peers believe that Nico’s achievements this season can be attributed to a more aggressive training regimen developed by fitness trainer Martin Gonzalez, who has worked with Almagro since 2009. However, the biggest change has been a shift in coaches. Nico as responded well to sage advice from his new but veteran tennis coach Samuel Lopez, who helped Gonzalez redesign a fitness protocol that has increased Almagro’s stamina and all-court coverage.

It is this quality that has enabled Nico to extend points and wear down opponents. For the 12^th seeded Almagro, his quarterfinal run at the French Open began with straight set wins over Paolo Lorenzi, veteran Marcos Baghdatis, Leonardo Mayer and in a upset over 8^th seed Janko Tipsarevic. When he faces Nadal I the quarters, Nico’ slate is clean, having not lost a set. In fact, he has looked dominant.  Of course, Nadal brings a whole very different mentality to the court, but Almagro has learned to compete against other favorites.  His biggest battle tomorrow may well be between the ears.

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