Paris Masters 2013: Rafael Nadal Faces Difficult Draw, Won’t Face Rivals Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer Until Finals

Rafael Nadal is ready to kick start his push for the year-end world's No.1 ranking, already starting his training for the last ATP 1000 Masters tournament of the year - the Paris Masters.

Nadal, holder of the most ATP 1000 Masters crowns with 26, will try to add another title to his collection when he challenges the finest men's singles netters in the world at the week-long tournament in Paris, France.

The Mallorcan Bull already made an early flight to Paris, and has already started hitting balls at the Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy indoor stadium.

Tough Draw for Rafa

By virtue of being the top player in the world, Nadal received a bye in the first round but he will nevertheless face tough competition in the succeeding stages of the Paris Masters.

Nadal will take on the winner of the first round match between Dmitry Tursunov and compatriot Marcel Granollers. If he's able to overcome his second-round foe, Nadal is expected to take on a number of elite players in his half of the bracket, including David Ferrer, Milos Raonic, Gilles Simon, and Tomas Berdych.

Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic will have Stanislas Wawrinka, Juan Martin Del Potro and Roger Federer in his half.

Finishing it Strong!

In an ambush interview at the Airport before he leaves for Paris, Nadal said he's aiming to finish the year strong after failing to win both the China Open and Shanghai Masters.

"After an almost perfect year, if I don't win anything else, I'll go home with a great feeling because it's been an unforgettable year for me. No doubt one of the best of my career," Nadal told the press, according to his fan site.

Nadal already has 10 titles around his belt this year, but a victory in Paris and the ATP Tour Finals in London next month will secure his spot on top of the world rankings for this season.

"There are two tournaments left and I'll try to arrive in good shape, with a good feeling in my game, now that the overall sensation has already been achieved," Nadal said.