MADRID - Spanish tennis ace Rafael Nadal is hoping his troublesome knee injury won't stop him enjoying a good performance in this year's Madrid Open tennis tournament.

Rafael Nadal of Spain hits a return to his compatriot David Ferrer during their final match at the Rome Masters tennis tournament in Rome May 2, 2010. [Agencies]

The competition begins on Monday and the world number three is looking forward to receiving the warm support he usually gets in the Spanish capital.

"This year I am arriving in different physical condition than last year. Last year I played when my knee was bad, but I always want to play here whenever possible," he said.

Spanish players, who traditionally play better on slow beaten clay courts, tend not to enjoy Madrid, where the altitude at 800 meters above sea level makes the ball faster through the air than their style of play is suited to. Nadal agrees with that assessment.

"You do notice it and it makes Madrid different. The ball flies more and it brings with it less control in your play," he said, before discussing the tendonitis in his knees that has troubled him over the last year.

"I always say that you have to learn to enjoy yourself even if you are suffering, except when the pain stops you, then you can't carry on. The worst was not losing last year's Roland Garros (French Open) or not being able to play at Wimbledon. The worst thing is knowing that physically you are not in condition. Losing really affects you, but the other (being injured) is worse," he insisted.

"Now I am thinking about winning in Madrid and taking it day by day. I am not setting targets. I don't care about being number 1, 2 or 3 in the world, I care about being happy," said Nadal.