Rafael Nadal is fighting to keep himself relevant in the tennis world and this time, he did so by separating himself from Roger Federer. With the support from his long term girlfriend Maria Francisca Perello, Rafael Nadal probably can take on anything in his career.

According to Mercury News, he said, ''I'm not Federer. I'm Rafael Nadal. He has his style, and I have my own style. I for sure try to improve many things during all my career and for sure I'm working hard to be a better player.''

Rafael Nadal has switched his focus from playing ranking catch up with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, but on his new tennis academy. Collaborating with his Uncle Tony, Rafael Nadal is looking at the tennis academy as a way to leaving a legacy on the Spain's tennis scene.

And seeing how his girlfriend Maria Francisca Perello is also based in his home country, this will make their relationship much easier to sustain.

According to Rappler, "World no. 5 tennis star Rafael Nadal spent his first day in Manila conducting a tennis clinic for young Filipino students on Sunday, December 6 at the Colegio San Agustin in Makati City. Nadal, 29, hosted the clinic for 60 young people together with his uncle and coach Toni to promote the Rafa Nadal Tennis Academy, which opens in Mallorca, Spain in May."

Looks like the former world number 1 is show that he is more than just a player trying to make a comeback.

But Rafael Nadal is trying everything to step up his game. He is still flailing in the games against top players like Roger Federer, but he has gained some trust from the public to show that he can do what he promised.

Telegraph commended Rafa's efforts in getting to the semifinal against Novak Djokovic. The reporter called his determination "superhuman competitive drive". But the Spaniard did fall to the current world number one, who took him out to proceed to APT final.

According to New York Times, Rafael Nadal is keeping a positive view on things. The article reports that "he also rejected the idea that 2015 was a lost season. Rafael Nadal's improving form on his least favorite surface - indoor hardcourts - at a time of year when he has often hobbled to the finish line is a building block for better things to come."

Rafa said, "If I am able to play well here, I think that's great news, because that can be a good chance to start next year again with positive feelings."

Do you think Maria Francisca Perello is the biggest reason Rafa is still fighting? Let me know in the comments below!