Nadal's absence takes shine off Davis final

BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) - The absence of world number one Rafael Nadal has taken the shine off the Davis Cup final and left Argentina as firm favorites to beat Spain and win the trophy for the first time.

Unbeaten at home for 10 years, Argentina now have higher-ranked players in their favor as well as the playing surface and a partisan crowd.

Nadal pulled out last week after failing to recover from tendonitis in his right knee and blamed his injury on an overloaded tennis calendar.

His withdrawal produced mixed feelings in the home camp.

"I regret that he's not coming, because all the Argentines wanted to see him, but it's also right to say that all Argentines want us to be Davis Cup champions," said Argentina captain Alberto Mancini.

"In that sense, it's good news because our chances have got better."

Argentina, taking part in their third final and at home for the first time, have chosen to stage the game on an indoor surface at the Islas Malvinas arena in the resort of Mar del Plata.

Their usual venue is the larger Parque Roca in Buenos Aires but the clay surface is also preferred by the Spaniards.

The choice of venue turned into a political battle with several other cities hoping to stage the prestigious event and politicians jumping on the bandwagon.

Despite Nadal's absence, it has been almost impossible for the general public to buy tickets at the 11,000 capacity arena with only 300 sold at the venue and another 1,500 over the Internet.

The rest have gone to members of the Argentina Tennis Association (AAT) and sponsors.

Although Mar del Plata is a major resort, hotels have doubled their prices and many said they were sold out two months ago.

David Nalbandian, Argentina's most experienced player, publicly criticized the decision to prefer Mar del Plata over his native Cordoba.

Argentina's challenge will be led by Juan Martin del Potro who has enjoyed a meteoric rise this year, winning four ATP titles in a row on his way into the top ten.

Ranked ninth, he also won the fifth and decisive rubber in the semi-final against Russia, destroying Igor Andreev in straight sets.

Nalbandian is two places below in the rankings.

David Ferrer, ranked 12, will lead the Spanish challenge as they attempt to add to their wins in 2000 and 2004.

"It's disappointing Nadal cannot be with us but we shouldn't talk about him any more from now on," said Spain captain Emilio Sanchez Vicario.

Marcel Granollers, ranked 56th in the world, has taken Nadal's place.

(Editing by Alan Baldwin)