And the hardworking staff means that in the most positive sense.

Pride of Serbia Novak Djokovic put a serious beatdown on Rafael Nadal at the BNP Paribas Open Sunday afternoon. Via ESPN.com:

INDIAN WELLS, Calif. — Rafael Nadal‘s serve deserted him in the second set, and so did his chances of beating a streaking Novak Djokovic.

Djokovic defeated the world’s top-ranked player 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 to win the BNP Paribas Open title on Sunday, keeping the Serbian perfect this year.

Djokovic improved to 18-0, including victories at the Australian Open and in Dubai last month.

“It definitely says good things. I am playing with a lot of confidence. I’m feeling the ball well on the court,” he said. “I’m very dedicated. I have a big will to win each match. I want to keep on going and keep on playing good tennis.”

Good tennis? That’s like Eric Clapton saying he plays good guitar.

Djokovic dictated the pace of the match, relentlessly attacked his opponent, and turned defense into offense on virtually every point.

In other words, he Nadaled Nadal.

This should be a very interesting year in professional tennis.