Reigning Madrid Open champion Andy Murray insists he will start his title defence with new-found confidence on the clay.
His win last year gave him his first ever Masters title on the surface, and as he comes into this year's tournament on the back of reaching the semi-final at the Monte Carlo Masters, Murray couldn't be in a better position as he aims for a second successive victory.
And for the current world number two, his boosted spirits can only serve to help his title campaign.
"It really helps my confidence coming back here as champion," he said.
"It was a very important week for me here last year against some of the top players in the world and that gives me a lot more confidence and belief on this surface which I didn't really have before.
"I was always going into the clay season a little bit unsure as to how I would do but winning here last year has really helped that.
"I hope that I can have another good performance again this year."
Murray beat Rafael Nadal to clinch the title in the Spanish capital last year, but with recent wins in Barcelona and Monte Carlo under his belt, Nadal has demonstrated he is well and truly back to his best.
Britain's Andy Murray (R) and Spain's Rafael Nadal hold their trophies after their final match at the Madrid Open tennis tournament in Madrid, Spain, May 10, 2015 - Reuters
But despite failing to reach the final in Monaco, Murray remains hopeful he can make it two from two in Madrid under the pressure of Nadal's viable challenge.
"I think my performance in Monte Carlo was good and I played some really good stuff," said Murray. "I didn't start the tournament so well but I finished it playing much better than I had over the previous few weeks. I'd like to think I can have a strong clay season this year.
"Rafa Nadal is great on this surface. Last year, he didn't play so well but he is the best clay court player of all time. He is gaining confidence from winning tournaments and some tough matches as well and there is no reason why he wouldn't be one of the favourites here, and it's good for tennis."
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