Expert picks are back for the Australian Open semifinals on Tuesday, when Rafael Nadal battles Matteo Berrettini and Daniil Medvedev goes up against Stefanos Tsitsipas. A three-team panel previews the action and makes its predictions.
(7) Matteo Berrettini vs. (6) Rafael Nadal
Ricky: The simple question is which Nadal is going to be on display. Will it be the one who was dealing with physical problems during his five-set struggle against Denis Shapovalov on Tuesday? Or is it going to be the one who is 8-0 this season and had been pretty much dominating all of his opponents prior to the quarterfinals? If it’s the latter, I can’t see Berrettini winning this matchup–not on anything other than grass or a lightning fast indoor hard court. There will be too many long rallies in which his vulnerable backhand gets exposed by the Spaniard’s heavy topspin forehand. To be clear, I wouldn’t bet with confidence on either side because of Nadal’s somewhat questionable status. But all things being equal the 20-time major champion should win this one. Nadal in 4: 6-3, 5-7, 6-4, 6-3.
Cheryl: The outcome of this match will depend heavily on whether Nadal has recovered from his five-set victory over Shapovalov. The Spaniard reported suffering heat stroke during the match and described himself as “physically destroyed” in his post-match presser. If the two days’ rest is sufficient, Nadal has to be considered the favorite in this match for several reasons. First, despite earning a spot in his first Australian Open semifinal Berrettini has been a bit vulnerable this fortnight. Only one of his matches was a routine straight-set win. Next, the slower surface (blue GreenSet) neutralizes some of the free points he usually gets on his first serve. Lastly, except for the issue with heat Nadal has been in impressive form. He has some extra pop on his serve and he has taken a more aggressive position on the baseline than usual. Nadal in 4: 6-4, 7-5, 3-6, 6-2.
Pete (Tennis Acumen): Despite five appearances in the final, the AO is Nadal’s “least” successful major. Currently he has a prime opportunity to accomplish the double-career Grand Slam with a win this year in Melbourne. After surviving a tougher than expected quarterfinal against Shapovalov, Nadal will not want to put himself in such dangerous scenarios in this match against even better competition. Similarly, Berrettini also blew a two sets to love lead in his quarter against a spirited and loose Gael Monfils before recovering in the fifth. The Italian now must face a man who has won 20 majors rather than someone with two major semifinal appearances to his name. At this stage of a slam, Nadal carries the banner for the Big 3 and will likely display the brand of tennis that the Big 3 absolutely deliver time and time again on the grandest of stages. Nadal gets to the doorstep of 21 as experience–especially at key junctures–wins this match. Nadal in 4: 6-3, 6-7(6), 7-5, 6-4.
(4) Stefanos Tsitsipas vs. (2) Daniil Medvedev
Ricky: My popcorn is popped for this one. They don’t necessarily hate each other at this point, but they definitely don’t like each other. Last year’s Grand Slam matchups were never going to be good. Tsitsipas was sapped of energy after beating Nadal in five sets in the Aussie Open quarterfinals, after which he got smoked by the Russian in the semis. Medvedev is probably never going to compete with the Greek on clay, and he didn’t in the French Open quarters. This one features a more level playing field. It is true Medvedev is coming off a four-hour and 42-minute thriller against Felix Auger-Aliassime, but the world No. 2 is one of the fittest guys in the business and he has never had any stamina-related issues. He should be fine. Tsitsipas played his best match in ages against Jannik Sinner, but asking for two in a row when he had previously been in a significant slump may be too much–especially against a backboard of an opponent who is going to make him hit tons and tons of tennis balls. Medvedev in 4: 4-6, 6-3, 7-6(6), 6-2.
Cheryl: Of the two semifinals, this is perhaps the more intriguing. Medvedev and Tsitsipas are not…friends. The two men had a highly publicized on-court argument at the Miami Masters in 2018, in which Medvedev accused Tsitsipas of calling him “a bullshit Russian” following a controversy over a strategically timed bathroom break by Tsitsipas. Since then their meetings have ranged from displays of simmering dislike and frosty indifference. The matchup heavily favors Medvedev, who holds a 6-2 record over Tsitsipas, but the Greek got a big win at the French Open last year. Honestly (and surprisingly), it’s Tsitsipas who has been the better player during week two. He dispatched Sinner in easy straight sets in the quarters, while Medvedev had to claw his way back from a two sets to love deficit against Auger-Aliassime. I still like the Russian in Melbourne, but this is not likely to be a straight set repeat of Medvedev’s SF win a year ago. Tsitsipas is going to make him work for it. Medvedev in 5: 5-7, 7-6, 6-3, 4-6, 7-5.
Pete: This will be the third time Medvedev and Tsitsipas will meet in the last five majors. The last four overall meetings have been split, with the victor winning in straight sets each time. Medvedev once again exhibited how difficult it is to oust him at a major in his resilient win over Auger-Aliassime in the quarters. In each of the five previous rounds he has faced a completely different opponent. Now he is standing two wins from consecutive major titles. Credit Tsitsipas for showing heart and determination in his round of 16 comeback win against Fritz. Despite being outplayed, he found a way to advance. After being able to exhale, he then mowed down Sinner in routine fashion in the quarters with a clean 4-for-4 in break points won. Although this match features world No. 2 and world No. 4, the rank order scale does not do justice to the vast gap in current form between these two. Medvedev, following a long exhale of his own after going the distance and saving a match point, should win this one in an easier manner. Medvedev in 4: 6-3, 6-7(4), 6-3, 7-5.
WWW?
All depends on rafas fitness..he did practice today and seemed fine is what I read on twitter ..it’s just the excess dehydration in flat 1.5 he of play that concerns me ..may God give Rafa all the strength
I got Tsitsipas vs Berrettini in the final.
I already said Nadal in 4 and I see that most agree. I hope that he won’t have physical issues.
For the other semifinal I have Tsitsipas in 4 or 5. I see that most picked Medvedev, but I think that this is a bad match-up for the Russian. Sure, he beat Novax in a GS, but Stefanos can just overpower him on this court, something that Djoker simply can’t.
When has he overpowered dannil anywer except RG last year ..i don’t think tsitsi can overpower Medvedev
Agreed! He isn’t Stan!
He’s not a power player!
that wasn’t even overpowering. He just won because he moves way better on clay.
I still don’t understand why is tsitsis game called as overpowering. He is a fluid shotmaker but he can’t outhit anyone. He does not have the game to just take the racquet out of your hands say like a Stan or thiem can do
Sorry sanju, didn’t see this. I just said above that he’s not like Stan. As you say, he’s a shotmaker.
The issue for Tsitsi is his ROS. I posted stats yesterday which show a big disparity in ROS rankings between him and Med. Tsitsi is #24 while Med is #4. How is Tsitsi going to break serve?
The disparity in ROS is even larger between Rafa and Berrettini. Rafa is #1 and Berrettini is around #70(quoting from memory). Those numbers suggest Rafa wins!
Amy..let’s just pray for rafa ..as usual I am nervous what is new about that 🙂
I am nervous too sanju!
What will be will be and we will support him in exactly the same way win or lose..
Berrettini is more of a throwback with his SHBH but maybe that’s the way we are going? I hope so
I think that the one concern with Rafa is his he will recover from the heat stroke. He has been playing well, the decision to go for more on his second serve even with the DF’s, has been a good one. That serve helped him win the fifth set.
I like the match up with Berrettini. He is a better player than the one time he played Rafa in 2019. But he has weaknesses that can be exploited. I know that Rafa senses the opportunity here. He has the high tennis i.q. He has the experience and the ability to adjust mid match. He has made adjustments to be able to keep playing. He has improved his serve and is playing more aggressive.
It could have been Novak in the semis. Rafa will want to take advantage of the fact that he’s not there.
Oh and I will be a nervous wreck. From the quarterfinals on I always get nervous. But this time there is some h on the line. It is something I did not allow myself to think about. But he is in the semifinals.
I do hope that physically he will be okay. He has had so much bad luck and heartache at the AO.
If the match was compatible with my time zone I would definitely watch it nny but it will be in the middle of the night. I am not someone who can function without sleep.
Just praying Rafa gets it done fast!
amy,
My days of staying up all night are over. It’s too hard to stay up for the night matches. The time difference meshes this the worst slam.
But I will be able to see it since it’s a day match. The question is whether I can survive it!
I really hope Rafa can do it quickly.
It is 3.30 or 4 am in the UK for us! haha. I will try to watch most of it.
Good luck nny and vr! I will be thinking of you and Rafa in my dreams!
I have been unwell recently so I simply can’t get up in the middle of the night!
Go Rafa!!💙💙💙💙💚💚💚💚💛💛💛💛
PS am really hoping for your sake Rafa does it in straights!
Many pundits are predicting Medvedev in 5 but I’m struggling to reconcile his sliding form with back-to-back 5 set victories, especially after having played already the equivalent of two 5 set matches.
I suspect a few are not giving Tsitsipas the respect he deserves.
It’s nothing to do with respect. The stats and h2h favour Med. That’s what most people go on unless there are compelling reasons to do with recent form. Tsitsi was very very good against Sinner but Sinner put him under zero pressure. Med isn’t going to let him play virtually the entire match on his fh which Sinner did.
And you were the one who had Sinner or Zverev winning the title…!
Of course Tsitsi can win. Tignor picked him to do so but there are solid reasons to pick Med.
amy,
Great reply! You saved me the trouble! It has zero to do with respect. Tsitsipas came in having recently undergone elbow surgery. I think people were not sure how he would do here. But he has made a very quick recovery.
Med is certainly a solid pick. He is tougher mentally than Tsitsipas. As you said, Sinner did not make any adjustments when what he did was not working. All Tsitsipas had to go is keep hitting forehand winners. Med is crafty and able to make adjustments. I don’t think his tough matches are a sign of weakness. I think his opponents played well. But he gutted it out, especially with Felix. He does not have up.
I expect a tough match. I am not saying that Tsitsipas can’t win. But I do think that Med at this time would be the favorite.
Med does not GIVE up!
I disagree. There are circumstances surrounding the H2H and it’s a weighing exercise with the current circumstances going into this match.
IMO, the circumstances going into this match probably shift the balance in favour of Tsistipas.
Stop preaching to me like I’m an idiot; I’m far more capable than all of you put together.
And I’m doing you a favour by posting here. Don’t lose sight of a good thing before it disappears.
You said either Zverev or Sinner would win the tournament!
How’s that going?!
That was before the tournament. They were the 2 form players at the time.
How’s your H2H theory at 2021 RG, USO, ATP Finals going?
Actually, it was before the 2022 season even started.
Amy have you scouted for info on Twitter if rafa was all good in practice?
Will match tomm be played under roof ?
Yes I looked and people think he is ok sanju!
He was practising a lot on serve which you would expect.
We just won’t know for sure until he plays.
I looked at a lot of forecasts. They all predict it being very hot in the morning with storms breaking out in the afternoon. The temperature is set to drop during the afternoon which is good but it will be humid.
It’s very likely they will play at least part of the match under the roof but honestly that’s better than him getting boiled in the sun.
Do you or anyone know how the roof works? Does it let the breeze in? Am hoping it does…
Even at nights it’s very humid. Today Ash said it was terrible humidity during the match ..yest dannil said the same that his DFS were due to the sweat on his palms
I think once roof comes on, it will be better..AC right
https://mobile.twitter.com/planettrish/status/1486615333993472006
They had to close the roof in the Tsitsipas/Sinner match. They said that initially it will feel hotter until the AC kicks in.
Rafa has not shown any nerves this tourney.
he had a couple ill-timed doubles vs. Mannarino
and the FH pass against Shapo
They all do that its called being human – strange how you can be nervous when you are the better player by a long way
5th set against Shapo was clutch. he would have easily lost something like that last year.
Yes, it’s very clutch when your opponent chokes and plays the complete opposite to how he played to get into that position.Very clutch.
It’s very clutch when your opponent has a huge physical edge but cant keep the ball in play because he’s so scared of losing as soon as he gets into a winning position.
Anon, It’s very clutch to win the first 2 sets losing just 7 games and to come back from suffering a heat stroke to taking the 5th set losing just 3 games.
Yes! Well said!
😀
The last post was meant for atul.
And nice to see you here!
Although it fits perfectly with the post above.
Oh cut the crap with your whining!
Shapo didn’t choke in the third and fourth sets when Rafa couldn’t do anything because of heat stroke. Shapo had break points in the first game of the fifth set. So what happened? Shapo was outplayed in the first two sets until he was hit with heat stroke. Otherwise he would have won it in three sets!
Rafa served great in the fifth set. This is a 35 year old player who we now know lost 10 pounds in that match! He deserves credit for somehow getting it done. Shapo’s inexperience did him in. He’s only 22 and I believe thus was his first quarterfinal in a slam.
Thats wrong though .Semis at Wimby and QF US Open . But yes still too inexperienced compared to Nadal in Slams but how is he supposed to get that unless he has matches like this?
Thanks for the corrections. I don’t disagree with you. He needs matches like this to mature and get experience so he can handle them better. Losing his cool and screaming at the chair umpire with offensive insults like him being corrupt, is not going to do it.
This was a good thing for Shapo. Unfortunately, he continued his tirade in his presser. That was a crappy thing to do. He lost the match and it is disappointing, but he will have a lot more chances.
That was to do with Rafa not getting warned for taking too long to serve which has been well noted over the years.
There is a shot clock now! Even the chair umpire blew Shapo off. That was just Shapo try8mg to throw off Rafa because he was out playing him.
Don’t you people ever give up on this? The shot clock is there for everyone to see it.
Oh and please spare me about this well noted crap! Novak has been one to take too long to serve for years!
Shapo was taking too long too
Until Rafa was hit with heat stroke.
My popcorn is popped as well….Rafa in 3; Med in 3.
Med has beef with Stefanos l, dislikes his mannerisms and called him a stupid Russian. Stefanos will pay
I am hoping for a 3 set match bcoz my heart honestly cannot take the anxiety with a prolonged match!! I can already feel my heart jumping out of my chest!! Sigh! Anyway, Vamos Rafa!!!
Mona,
I feel the same way. The last match just took it out of me. Rafa, too. My stomach is in knots already.
The roof is going to be closed.
Yes!! As much as I’m always excited to see Rafa play but so long gone are the days when I would never have second thoughts about whether or not Rafa would win a match!! Oh, how times have changed but I know he can do it!!
They’re about to come on!! It’s 111:30 pm here is St. Lucia so I’m wide awake! Vamos!!
It’s 10:30 here in the states in Florida. I just want it to start already. I won’t be able to see the night match.
They have the AC on with the roof closed. So hopefully it will be cool enough. They keep saying that the closed roof helps Berrettini. With his big serve and forehand. They say his backhand is his weakness and his return game.
Here we go! I wish people would come on here to talk about the match.
They are saying that it’s very humid in there. Both guys sweating.
Rafa holds to start.
You never know, if Berrettini starts performing against the top players, I might become fan. But I can’t support someone that performs against one group of players and then runs off with his tail between his legs against another.
Rafa breaks to go up 2-0.
Darren Cahill is talking about the different conditions. The ball is jumping around abd it’s pretty heavy out there.
NNY I’m here, not going anywhere unless things start going sideways, lol! But Rafa looks ok so far!
Mona,
Yes! I will stay here, too. Please no more drama! Rafa seems very focused.
I have said this before – and it still holds. I do not think Nadal gets enough credit for how strategic he is on court. He plays very smart tennis.
Yes Cheryl!! McEnroe just mentioned how great Rafa”s tennis IQ is!! But I guess ppl just pay attention to his bating skills, lol!
Cheryl,
Thank you! I absolutely agree with you. Nice to see you here so we have some company watching the match.
I can’t go to bed! This is a big match. 🙂
I think in Europe it’s the wee hours in the morning, so they may be asleep. I will have to miss the next semifinal. I hope to catch a replay.
Ooh! Berrettini has called for the trainer.
Here comes the trainer for Berrettini.
Yes!! I mean he had two 5-setters. It’s got to take its toll! He seems a bit hindered
They are saying it’s a stomach problem.
Berrettini need to focus on the physical element and stay positive. Play the long game and keep the rallies extended on Nadal’s service games.
Nadal always comes out hard and fast. No need to panic just yet.
Too many of these guys are playing the scoreboard from the outset which is the wrong strategy altogether.
If you have a physical edge, that should be your focus.
1st set Rafa – 6:3.
Vamos!
Rafa is serving very well at this point! Except when closing set, lol!!
Hopefully Berrettini isn’t hurt. Nobody likes to see a match end like that. Looks like nausea though?
Yes! That got tight from 40-0. But Rafa got it done! Keep it up!
A set and a break down, Berrettini starts playing the way he should. Lol
Cheryl,
I think that is what it is. I certainly don’t want to see a match end that way. But a Berrettini seems off for sure.
Should Rafa complain that Berrettini called for the trainer? 😉
Yes, I was about to wonder myself lol! Or is it only when Rafa calls the trainer it’s a problem?! 😀
Cheryl,
I think that is what it is. I certainly don’t want to see a match end that way. But Berrettini seems off for sure.
yeah. I don’t know if he’s generally feeling unwell, but his rhythm is jacked.
Berrettini has missed more shots already than he did in his previous 3 matches on average.
Well, that’s probably called the Rafa factor!!
This is…not good from Berrettini. That backhand is atrocious.
He is leaking errors from that backhand.
Yes, bcoz Rafa is peppering it bcoz it’s his weakness!! Lol!
Wish Rafa would win in three!!!
Next!!!!!!!!!!!
Rafa is playing well. Let’s not make excuses for Berrettini.
Vamos!
Yes, you are right. We should not take anything away from Rafa’s stellar tennis.
Rafa’s hitting quality is OUTSTANDING. He has come out just like I expected and will win in 3.
Yay! VR is in the house!
If Berrettini made Nadal work like from the start we’d be looking at 1 set all right now.
1 set all…and big advantage Berrettini.
Anon, You should try ure hand at comedy!!’ 🤣
Where’s that lion roar from the other night? Not survival of the fittest mode today?
Anon, ‘If’
Honestly, I thought Rafa was asking for the trainer the way he played the first set, hits short balls, no feast pumps when winning key points, not running on each ball, not serving big. But apparently, Rafa also drops in intensity when seeing Berrettini having some physical issues..
Hope the Italian is ok..
Vamos Rafa!
See, now Nadal is starting to miss.
Miss what? Afternoon tea?
Cheryl,
LOL!
😀
right…
If Rafa had called the trainer, everyone would be up in arms but when Berrettini cals the trainer everyone is concerned about his well being.
Evem with 44% first serves in for set 2, Rafa has dominated hos service games and his return games been too good. 5-2
GO FOR IT, CHAMP
VR,
What happened with his serve percentage?
Rafa leads by 2 sets to love. 63 62
Vamos!
Where’s that lion roar from the other night? Not survival of the fittest mode today? Let’s share some points, we’re all buddies today? Lol
Matteo is more like a meek mouse with the GOAT across the net.
True, a complete reversal.
171 kmh second serve bambooozles Berettini, who returns it long. With the same speed behind the second serve (164 kmh i.e. 102mph), Rafa has not thrown a DF. That’s called raising your level! hasn’t faced a brk pt.
Rafa in 3. #21, we are coming.
Let’s not talk too fast!! Mateo looks like he wants to make comeback!! So one match at a time before we start talking about #21!!
Cmon Rafa, plz do it in 3!!!
Rafa is not investing a lot of energy in this match and I hope it stays that way! I think the intensity increased in the second set and Rafa played well! Berrettini does not seem injured though just maybe a bit fatigued..
Vamos Rafa!
Or totally outplayed… His backhand slice has kept him in rallies and setup forehands to launch but tooday it’s been a liability. I mentioned this before the match: watch out for Rafa running around to punish that shot. The patterns are difficult to break for the Italian. Sure, he can play better but this level is perhaps too much for his game.
Look at the length he is getting on backhand drives. Matteo just can’t compete with that. He almost needs a miracle here. Must hope Rafa drops his intensity and his erros are halved or something
@NNY, nothing concerning regarding his 1st serve % I think.
VR,
I saw the stats for the second set. I think it was something like 62 or 63 % first serves in. Then 68 or 69 % first serves won. The biggest discrepancy was with the second serve. Berrettini had something really low like less than 30% second serves won. Rafa had 71% second serves won.
Much better from Berrettini for 2-1.
This is the best Berrettini has played. I guess down two sets he is just going for it.
Down 2 sets, he’s now in the frame of mind he should’ve been from the outset.
You’re giving too much credit to Nadal; his opponent’s do half the work for him.
Anonymous January 28, 2022 at 12:38 AM
“You’re giving too much credit to Nadal; his opponent’s do half the work for him”.
Because he’s the boss.
You are too biased to see the patterns. How about Rafa taking down his forehand with missile CC backhands! This is the 6th set they are playing and Rafa hasn’t faced BP yet. So it is not as much about Berettini waking up but more about Rafa staying awake the way he has. His intensity must drop for the Italian to cause any significant harm here.
Now Berrettini is playing. It’s all psychology. Berretinni didnt feel like he could breath for the first set an a half.
The lefty to the forehand is a massive advantage. Employed the right way from the outset, it throws the vast majority of players right off their game.
Sorry, the lefty to the backhand. Nadal has seen it a thousand times; he knows how most players crumble.
You have to play with adrenaline from the start and throw everything at it against Nadal. You cant expect to play measured tennis and adopt a wait and see approach.
Oh, but sometimes Rafa doesn’t allow you to do that. Not sure if you ever noticed but that’s a powerful trait Big 3 possess.
Put simply, dont let him boss you around. Stand your ground and give as good as you take.
I have always said Nadal would get 24 slams by the time he retired.
He is going to prove his 21st here, and then 22 in RG this year.
The last slam he would champion would be 2024 RG.
Nole would get his 26 to 27 slams if he could let go a little bit of his ego.
Wow, around the net BOOMER from Matteo. Well done!
Rafa’s intensity dropping slightly. Needs to be careful here, keep holding and he’ll get this in the bag.
Am getting a little nervous. Some weird errors from Nadal. Like he is tired.
VR,
Yes, Rafa’s level has dropped somewhat. That’s why it’s a close set. I certainly do not want to see Berrettini get the third set and push this to a fourth set.
I saw that coming from the beginning of the third!! That’s y I said don’t start taking about #21!! Rafa always loses intensity in third! It’s his trend these days!
What is it about the third sets with Rafa?
How did he end up down on his serve?
Jeez here we go again
lol. You coulf feel in the last 3 games something was cooking haha I think he’ll be okay in set 4. just needs similar intensity to sets 1 and 2 and he’ll get there.
Now he’s playing to his ability. This has been a joke by him so far. Nadal is an anaconda; he suffocates you until the match is over.
So now Berrettini is serving for the third set. What is it with Rafa? He is letting him in the match.
Anddd it has happened. Yes, Rafa’s intensity was dropping, you could see it. But some inspiring tennis from Matteo to get the break here. Well done!
Come on, Rafa. Need to get the job done in 4 sets now. Stay focused, champ.
Rafa knows how to let his opponents get back in the match. This is unreal. You can never relax with him.
I find this concerning. He needed an easy match. Now this guy is bombing aces solver the place.
He cannot let this go to five sets. Not if he wants to win this slam. If it’s not heat stroke then it’s playing poorly in the third set.
I should have known I could not relax for even one match.
I just do not get it.
If Berrettini fought like this from the start, he’d be up 2 sets to 1 right now.
The amount of credit you give Nadal for these types of wins is nauseating.
This is the normal Berrettini now.
You are nauseating with your garbage blabbering.
Berrettini wakes up and with Rafa’s poor serve he was easily able to take advantage. I was afraid this might happen. I thought Rafa’s level was not high enough in this match but he could get away with it because the Italian was not at his usual level. Now Rafa is made to work for it. Hope Rafa finds his right level to win this in 4
Vamos Rafa!
Of course, Berrettini will start thinking he can win and hand the match to Nadal on a platter.
VAMOS! Really needed that hold to stop the bleeding. Drew a couple of fist pumps too!
Agreed. This was probably the key point in this match..Hope Rafa improves his serve to win more free points on serve…
Yes, needs the serve back. It was better in the last game.
174 kmh second serve to seal the game to love. Gradually getting back on track. Keep it up, champ.
Matteo, be easy on that serve and forehand, boy.
What is 174 kmh in miles per hour?
108 mph
Thanks!
Berrettini is staying with Nadal. This is dangerous for him. Rafa would much prefer to see berrettini choke like everyone else.
he did
Wow, some serious serving rhythm. 22 points in a row on serve? AGAINST RAFA? has to be a record
Berrettini is getting better. He’s playing the big points better against the top guys.
Berrettini played to about 70% of hs potential, overall.
There’s some positives there; he is playing the big points better, but he needs to sustain throughout the match.
Rafa – please serve this out else i will break my television
vmk1,
You and me both!
aggressive
COME ON! One more hold please. Some good serving please and a couple of forehands DTL!
F.I.N.A.L
Vamossssssssssssssssssss!
That’s a champion. Opportunistic, off court in under 3 hours. Weathered bad play in the third set. You have to tip your hat.
well summarised. another mental battle won and he has all the confidence now to go all the way. It will be a very complicated final but we know he’ll give it his all. And now just saying he recovered quite well from that marathon against Shapo. Good to hear, champ.
YESSSSSSSS! did it under 3 hours so alll good! Wasn’t at his best in that set but really turned it around. Changed his return position so well and just tightened the screws. Needs more aggression on the forehand and change direction more. He’ll know what to do.
#21, we are coming!!
Whom would I prefer? Surely Tsitsipas.
avoiding a fifth set was essential for his chances in the final
whatever the outcome Nadal just wants it to be 5 hours. I’m not sure he’s the favorite against either one if they are fresh.
Ricky, five hours or no, neither of them will be fresh, they both have played 5 setters! Their match will not be 3 sets for sure!!! Can’t c there being much of an advantage there!, except that they’re both at least ten years younger!!
That final set was nerve wracking. I couldn’t watch during Rafa’s serve because I was too worried that he would get broken and be taken to a 5th set.
Vamosssssssssssssssssssss!
Me too! I switched off tv! I am really getting too old for this, lol!!!
Anonymous January 28, 2022 at 12:38 AM
“You’re giving too much credit to Nadal; his opponent’s do half the work for him.”
Game, set and match Rafa
63 62 36 63
Vamossssssssssssss!
VR,
Why do you prefer Tsitsipas? I want to know.
I am exhausted but relieved. I could not watch that last game. At least it did not go five sets.
I love your optimism. I am just so gun shy with this tournament.
weaker backhand
Ricky,
Thanks for that!
+Med’s superior ROS and defensive skills. I just hate to think how many returns Med is going to make. We have seen Rafa’s intensity wavering in matches and making him hit so many balls is going to be troublesome. I’ll save the rest of my thoughts until we know whom he is gonna play.
It is sinking in now.
Rafa is in the final!
🎉🎊😄
Oh gosh!! My heart couldn’t take it midway in the fourth but I couldn’t believe it when Rafa broke and served it out!! Congratulations Rafa and all his fans!! We’re in the finals!!! Vamos!!
People, especially commentators have simply not grasped the fact that Rafa is not bothered by big hitters.
I had to mute the sound because I could not listen to JMac anymore!
After the match McEnroe was full of admiration for Rafa. All the commentators and writers tend to undervalue Rafa’s qualities until they see the print of the nail.
I hate to say this because JMac was my idol back in the day, but he is a troll. No other way to describe him. 😉
He was certain,y not my idol back in the day. That was Borg. But I have to agree with you about him being a troll. I always had great admiration for his talent as a player, but he has become a caricature of himself as a tennis analyst. It’s a shame but I simply cannot listen to his drivel when he spouts off garbage about Rafa.
Congrats Rafa, into the final again! He got me worried about the fourth set after losing the third; so happy he finally came through!
Vamos Rafa, please win the final on Sunday!
Vamooosss! Great to get it done in 4! After all this is a semi final match and one should expect tight sets and going distance! I think the way this match webt was totally in Rafa’s favor even though he lost the third set! Rafa”s first serve is so significant and I hope it works best in the finals!
I would also prefer Tsitsipas as this surface is really Med’s forte, he can chase every ball..I do not want Rafa engaging in endless rallies. Let’s see what happens..
Vamos Rafa!
It is going to be Medvedev. Tsitsi will find a way to choke 🙂
Vamos Rafa, for the final! Just woke up, watched the last couple of games and the interview. Rafa looked GREAT after the match! Unbelievable!
Australian Open. The (Not So) Happy Slam for Rafans. I read a couple of days ago that it was Roger who first called it “Happy Slam”. It certainly did make him happy back in the day. I will try to be cautiously optimistic about Rafa’s chances in the final. His joy in tennis has peaked beautifully and at this stage of his career that just may be the best weapon he has.
Just saw the highlights. Rafa was excellent first 2 sets…but rafas level clearly dropped in third. His intensity dropped ..i don’t know if it’s age related ..even in fourth he focussed on his serve n just attempted to get into berretinis serve first 2 points n if he won there went to break him else did not try .he was clearly managing energy which maybe wise thing to do..maybe moyas input …no fighting for every point. How will he then endure a Medvedev tsitsipas who will surely make it very physical n can Rafa survive them..or was Rafa trying to save all energy for the final
Yes, although not always the best measure of the situation, but the UE’s tell a good story too. His total 7 unforced errors in set 3 equal the combined set 1 and 2 UE’s total.
He’ll give it his 120% in the final.
Medvedev thinks he’s going to lose.
Medvedev said “listen to me when I’m talking to you” to the umpire. He’s got a wicked temper.
But dad was coaching. Proved later, and Danii’s interviews were so good and insightful. Becoming a firm favourite of mine.
He knows he’s out of gas Lol
who
In the back of his mind, Medvedev knows he can’t win the title if this match goes 5 sets.
Meddy looking very fit out there, not affected by the long QF match. What’s he complaining about? About Stef’s father coaching court side? Meddy does behave like a bad ass sometimes!
No clear sign who will win this match so he should stay positive. I think Tsitsipas looks the easier opponent for Rafa in the final, Tsitsipas tends to make more errors and ROS not as good as Meddy’s.
“Meddy looking very fit out there, not affected by the long QF match”
I disagree; there’s been obvious signs of fatigue with some uncharacteristic mistakes at critical moments. However, it’s probably not that obvious to the untrained eye.
Medvedev tends to hide things quite well with his defiant attitude.
Ppl saying Rafa may have a fed 17 ao moment coming back from injury after 6 months but they forget Yes but there Rafa his opponent himself was coming back from injury too n is 4-5 years younger .here these 2 are not coming back from injury n are 10 years younger
Those are 2 very big differences
Oh man. Brutal night with just a few hours of sleep. Rafa played well. But, the quality of this semi makes be feel like Rafa has little chance in the finals. These guys are young and fit.
agreed. He needs this to be a 5 hour war.
Medvedev 3-0, maybe 3-1 in the final. Seeing it like a beach ball.
Medvedev will be 1.45
Nadal will win in 4 sets in d final against medvedev.
interesting
N basis for this ? Wishlist ? Or actual reasoning ? Please help with rationale
Ugh. Medvedev won easily. Sorry folks, but don’t see Rafa winning this. Maybe gets a set. Anyhow Rafa is healthy and the good news is that the next slam will be the French
Rafa 10-90…it’s a hc n dannil is best on hc..even better than novak now on hc .u saw how he tore him apart at uso final.Rafa will be all nerves n i think his fitness is not there. It will be 3 or max 4.Ofcourse after injury n Covid Rafa reaching final itself is huge.But it ends here .I was hoping this match goes 5 but this joker tsitsi naa..
Hope the universe and tennis God’s give Rafa all the courage n strength n acumen to pull this through
Sanju, let’s not get it twisted. Medvedev is not Djokovic and he will never be as good as djokovic at the Australian open. Let’s get real here. Medvedev is playing better than Djokovic? In what universe? He almost lost the quarterfinal against Felix who is not a top player and he did not win this semifinal easily. Can we be honest here? He won in 4 sets. How’s that easy?
Medvedev beat Djoko at the US open bc Djokovic choked and was a bundle of nerves trying to win the calendar grand slam. Djokovic didn’t even put up a fight. If Djokovic played his best, medvedev would have never won that match atleast not so easily. To prove my point, the next time Djokovic met him after the US open, Djokovic beat him in 3 sets bc Djokovic brought his A game.
I think it’s time some Rafans start believing in their player. Djokovic fans have so much faith in Djokovic that they are even predicting him to win the French open this year. can you imagine? Last year, the whole universe were predicting that medvedev will beat Djokovic in the final of 2021 Australian open bc up till the final, medvedev was in impressive form and yet in the final he was blown away by Djokovic. This year medvedev is not unbeatable and he’s no where near Djokovic’s best at the Australian open. To suggest he’s better than Djoko now on hardcourts is ludicrous. If Djokovic played this Australian open he would have beaten medvedev in the final bc Djoko is as good in Australia as Nadal is as good in the French.
I believe Nadal will win in 4 sets if he’s healthy and does not go walkabouts after winning a set or two sets and he has to win in 4 bc if it goes to 5, it’s advantage med. I believe Nadal can and will beat him based on how both of them have played so far and that is not wishful thinking.
Happy!! I agree with you damn it!!! We need to have more faith in Rafa!!! I think it’s just bcoz we have been so disappointed at the AO since after 2009 we use this as our basis !! But I agree with ure analysis, Rafa can take down Medvedev if he plays smart and tenacious tennis, and if his fitness keeps up! So I look forward to the final and hope for a great match, and also hope that Rafa raises that cup on Sunday!! Vamos!!
Already started using nice tactics to put down Djokovic greatness in Aus open and boasting Medvedev. So in case if Nadal wins then you can say Nadal defeated a guy who is better than Djokovic and the way Nadal played if Djokovic was there then he would have lost badly. So it was good for Djokovic that he saved himself.
The fact is anyone other than Djokovic in a grand slam final Nadal should be favourite considering the experience he has and he can handle the young guys better than anyone.
You mentioned US open and not the last AO, and if you want to consider their latest encounter then why not Paris open. Now you are saying Medvedev is better than Djokovic but I am sure if the final was between them then you would have commented this young guys are bunch of jokers and they will lose badly to him.
I agree with both happy and best player. Please go and look at nadal and medvedev h2h it’s nadal 3 – 1. Nadal lost the one match in 3 sets. Yes Nadal is 35 but i think the nature’s god is finally lift the AO curse on him and…..
Rafa cried after the match
https://twitter.com/TennisHd24/status/1486955619999432706?s=20&t=ScKrOHYF03_Q_7x4oPZ35w
Oh my God! I did not see that!
Rafa, you are my hero!
😍
Well played Rafa. Made Handsome look ordinary.
Go win 21 now.
I really like Danii but, “the hand of history” is on Rafa.
Sorry for quoting Blair, Amy. I promise never to do that again….;)
Tsk tsk Margot!!😀
I only just found out Rafa won!
PS Go Ash!💙💙💚💚💛💛 I so much want her to win..
Oh me too!! Badly lol Go Ash!!
Ash is so lovable Mona! And she has a fantastic game…full of craft, intelligence and variety..
Another big fan here. Beautiful person. Beautiful game.
Rafa is no Tsitsipas nor FAA, so Meddy won’t have it easy in the final. While Rafa’s physical conditions may not be ideal, Meddy doesn’t look great physically too after the SF.
Meddy could save MP vs FAA, I doubt Rafa would allow that to happen if Rafa is about to win. Rafa simply has more varieties in his game to make things difficult for Meddy. Meddy looks like a younger version of Djoko with his incredible gets and CC/DTL flat shots from both wings, plus his great serving. But, physically I doubt he’s in tip top conditions, so he may come out firing on all cylinders so Rafa has to be on the alert at the get go.
Vamos Rafa, please play your best tennis to win come Sunday!
I will try, no?
The important thing is that Novak is not on the other side of net.
Thank you luckystar. You articulated my thoughts better than I could have.
Luckystar, I totally agree with you. I’m not technically savvy like you about tennis but even I can see that Medvedev doesn’t have any strategy or variety in his game. He basically defends the baseline just like Djokovic does and Rafa is a tactical player.
Vamos Rafa!
And Djokovic is not?
Hahaha…
Rafa is not playing Djokovic tomorrow but as a matter of interest, Djokovic himself says his game is to defend the baseline.
Lucky,
Thanks for your analysis! Always great to read your thoughts.
My wifi was on the blink so I only just found out Rafa won!
I was filled with euphoria but reading the thread of the match a lot of people are downbeat..
Don’t know what to think!😕😕
It’s surely incredible Rafa is in the final given that 2 months ago he said he thought his career might be over!
I mean mad respect to him for his incredible guts and warrior spirit..!
Amy, there is nothing to be downbeat about regarding Rafa’s match. Rafa was untouchable in the first 2 sets. Berry went for broke in the 3rd set and credit to him he played better in that set but Rafa was on it in the 4th set which he won without any resistance from Berrettini.
Ok thanks nadline!
I skim read the match thread and some people seemed downbeat..😕😕
A win is a win…!
Yet another investigative report is out saying Novax’s positive covid test result for the 16 Dec is a fake.
Rafael Nadal brushes aside Matteo Berrettini to reach Australian Open final and close on 21st Grand Slam title
Rafael Nadal, who is eyeing a historic major title in improbable fashion, brushed the big-hitting Matteo Berrettini aside in four sets on Rod Laver Arena in what ended up being an inspired semi-final win. Nadal can move beyond rivals Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic with a 21st singles Slam in Melbourne on Sunday and will now await the winner of Daniil Medvedev’s clash with Stefanos Tsitsipas.
https://www.eurosport.co.uk/tennis/australian-open/2022/rafael-nadal-v-matteo-berrettini-follow-live-australian-open-semi-finals-in-melbourne_sto8741383/story.shtml
Berrettini threw everything he possibly could at his opponent, but in reality, Nadal never looked overly troubled, with the third set merely a minor blip as he surged on in front of the jubilant fans willing him on at a tournament where he is immensely popular.
Despite all his major titles, the sixth seed has just the solitary title at the first Grand Slam of the season, back in 2009. He will now have every chance of claiming his second in Sunday’s showpiece.
“The first two sets were some of the best I’ve played for a long time,” Nadal said in his on-court interview.
https://www.eurosport.co.uk/tennis/australian-open/2022/rafael-nadal-v-matteo-berrettini-follow-live-australian-open-semi-finals-in-melbourne_sto8741383/story.shtml
Medvedev is seeing it like a beach ball. He will treat Nadal no different to any other player in the top 100.
Every single serve of Rafa’s will co me back with interest. Medvedev will serve aces like its a practice session.
You were saying yesterday that Tsitsi was going to beat Med!
How did that go? (Reusable question).
This Anonymous is another Novak fan , probably from tennis-x. He is just here to trash Rafa and his fans and act like he knows more than he does. But the obvious bias makes anything he says pure crap. Nothing better to do with his life except hide behind “Anonymous”. There is a reason for that.
I rarely read his comments.. Just scroll down and ignore.. The more you respond and give attention, more garbage they throw..
Rafael Nadal and Daniil Medvedev have met 4 times before, with Rafael Nadal leading the head to head 3-1. They met 3 times in 2019, where Nadal won all of their encounters. In 2020, they met once and Nadal was serving for that match in the second set, but eventually lost it in 3.
…and the list was in indoor hard court. Which is rafa weakest surface
Rafa is an experienced big match player. I think he’s pacing himself nicely match by match, not pushing himself too much in each match unless absolutely necessary (like in that QF).
Note that he always came out and played well enough not to lose the first two sets of his matches; even when he lost the third set, he could still up his level to win the fourth set. The QF five setter was the exception due to extreme weather conditions.
I feel that in the final, Rafa will put in his all to win the match, as that’s the final match of the tournament, no longer needing to think about the next match. He did not face any MP, or felt at a loss during the match, in any of his six matches so far; I don’t see him being any different in the final.
I think that Tsitsi simply ran out or gas; he probably knew that he’s done after the first set. Frankly I expected more from him, but he didn’t have an easy path to the SFs so it’s understandable (considering that he’s returning from injury).
agreed
(except he had a chance until the last game of the third set)