With three wins at Indian Wells, Nadal has plenty of fond memories in California.
And the 32-year-old loves coming back to the event which is often described as the “fifth Grand Slam”.
“This tournament is important enough to stand on its own name,” said Nadal.
“I love not being in a big city and the calm we have out here in the desert. I love the views and the organisation here is one of the best.”
01:05: The players are out on court. Nadal is wearing a sleeveless pink top.
00:55: Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic are already safely through to the third round after good wins.
Nadal will no doubt want to do similarly.
00:45: The winner of this match will play Diego Schwartzman in the third round after he beat Roberto Carballes Baena.
00:30: Hello and welcome to live coverage of Rafael Nadal’s opening match at Indian Wells.
The Spaniard’s clash against Jared Donaldson is the first match of the night session.