The Baseline Player of the Week: Rafael Nadal

Rafael Nadal hasn't played an official ATP tournament since retiring against Marin Cilic in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open. But that doesn't mean he's far from a tennis court.

Last weekend, the Spaniard joined his teammates for the quarterfinal Davis Cup tie against Germany. The world No. 1 led the team in a hard-fought battle that saw Spain squeak into the semifinals, 3-2.

Yet that wasn't the only reason for Nadal to celebrate. After defeating Philipp Kohlschreiber (6-2, 6-2, 6-3) and Alexander Zverev (6-1, 6-4, 6-4) he set a new Davis Cup record for the longest match winning streak in both singles and doubles at 24 matches.

Even after a couple of months away from the sport, Nadal still has the skills to dominate during the clay season. It's also possible he just really likes playing with his teammates.

Nadal is next scheduled to defend his crown in Monte Carlo next week.

This week on Tennis Channel Plus:

—ATP Houston Outer Courts (4/9-4/13)

Catch all the action from the U.S. Men's Clay Court Championship with outer court coverage live on Tennis Channel Plus beginning Monday April 9 at 4 p.m. ET

—ATP Marrakech Final (4/15)

Don’t miss the Grand Prix Hassan II final live on Tennis Channel Plus Sunday April 15 at 9 a.m. ET

—ATP Monte-Carlo (4/15-4/22)

Watch first to last ball of the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters live on Tennis Channel Plus beginning Sunday April 15 at 7 a.m. ET