Madrid Masters: Andy Murray looks forward to Rafael Nadal test

Andy Murray is braced for a testing encounter when he takes on Rafael Nadal in the Madrid Masters final on Sunday evening.

The British No1 produced a brilliant display to beat Kei Nishikori and set up a clash against the nine-time French Open champion.

However, the Scot, who has beaten Nadal just five times in their 20 meetings, acknowledges that he will have to be at his best against the Spaniard.

“Against Rafa it is going to be extremely difficult, especially playing here in Spain,” said Murray.

“I think he’s played very well this week, too. Hopefully I can put in a good performance and make it tough for him and see what happens.”

Meanwhile, Nadal feels that he is hitting form on his favourite surface at just the right time.

“For the past couple of days I have been playing better and better every day,” said Nadal, who beat Tomas Berdych in the semi-finals.

“That’s always very good news. I am in the final. I am happy for that. I am enjoying a lot the fact that I am playing in front of an unbelievable crowd.

“For me, that’s the best crowd in the world without any doubt. So that gives me a lot of really positive energy.”