did you happen to see nadal`s queen`s final against nole a few years back? I think it was in 2008.
he went to the net confidently in that match. he was simply brilliant at the net in that match.
at any rate, I think you are right. he was far more fearless at the net a few years ago. he can volley. something just stops him at times.
probably because he has a risk averse game and risk averse mindset. on quicker courts he has to try to be more aggressive and more fearless.
and you have to show them that you are a force at the net too.