Ana Ivanovic knows the effort required to reach the top of the game—and how arduous the ascent back up the ladder can be after a fall.

That's why Ivanovic is inspired by fellow former No. 1 Rafael Nadal.

Video: Jankovic 30 and Flirty In Cincinnati

Like Rafa, Ana is a former French Open champion. Like Nadal, Ivanovic has endured struggles with form and confidence.

Following her Grand Slam victory at the 2008 Roland Garros, Ivanovic contested 27 consecutive Grand Slam tournaments before returning to a major semifinal in Paris in June.

The ninth-ranked Serbian said seeing Nadal continue to give maximum effort despite the fact his results have dipped inspires her to give her best.

"The only expectations I have is to give my best every time I step on court," Ivanovic told the media after her quarterfinal loss to Serena Williams in Cincinnati. "It's not always going to be the result maybe I hope for. Maybe it will be better. But I can't see that. I can only do my best each day.

"Such a good example for that is Rafa, I feel. Every time he gives his best.  It's not always the result, but sometimes you have to go through that."

Photo credit: Western & Southern Open