Nadal and noodles an inseparable Asian combination

Nadal and noodles an inseparable Asian combination Rafael Nadal is running on noodle power as he plows through the ATP autumn Asian swing, with the Spaniard totally enamored by the local diet.

The 2010 Japan Open champion cannot help but profess his admiration for the healthy Japanese eating style.

Nadal says he and his team are regulars at the Oriental table no matter where they are in the world. "Maybe 30 percent of nights when we go for dinner around the world we eat Japanese food."

The top seed devoured packet noodles regularly during the Tokyo event for a quick energy hit and also dug into the local fish-based cuisine in the evenings in more convivial restaurant settings.

"It's not just noodles," said Nadal. "I've had teppanyaki (grilled dishes). I've been to the fish market. Whatever country in the world we play in we always look for Japanese food."

The No. 2-ranked Spaniard is making the most of the injury absence of No. 1 Novak Djokovic from the Asian run and he is appearing this week as top seed at the Shanghai Rolex Masters.