(1) Rafael Nadal vs. (5) David Ferrer
Steen: Ferrer actually won their last meeting in Monte-Carlo and has won two of their last three overall. The Monte-Carlo loss was one of three setbacks (two of which were huge upsets) Nadal has suffered this clay-court season, but this is a best-of-five format and on three previous occasions Nadal has thrashed his countryman at the French Open without dropping a set–including in each of the past two years. Thus, something tells me Nadal simply gets in Ferrer’s head at Roland Garros, beyond the simple level of the play/style matchup. Although the world No. 1 was complaining about his back earlier this fortnight, he had zero trouble against Lajovic in the round of 16. Ferrer, meanwhile, got past Kevin Anderson in a pretty comfortable four sets. I like the top seed in a close three sets. Nadal 6-4, 7-5, 6-3.[polldaddy poll=8096317]
Ricky: Monfils cannot ask for a better scenario in which to play Murray: on red clay and in France. Of course, both Monfils and the French crowd could ask for some other benefits, namely a slower recovery from back surgery on Murray’s part and the clay-court Murray of all years prior to this one. They are not, however, getting either one of those gifts. All systems are go physically for the Scot and he is playing the best tennis of his career on the slow stuff. His five-set thriller against Philipp Kohlschreiber featured outstanding tennis and he blitzed Fernando Verdasco in straight sets on Monday. Monfils also parlayed a five-set survival (against Fabio Fognini) into a fourth-round straight-setter (over Guillermo Garcia-Lopez). At this stage of a Grand Slam, you have to think a more experienced Murray is the one more likely to sustain the current level. Murray 6-2, 3-6, 6-2, 7-6.
Steen: Monfils won a five-setter in 2006 at the French Open and Murray has a clay-court win at the ’06 Hamburg event, but they have not met since 2010 and they are obviously different players now. Murray won more easily than expected against Verdasco on Monday, while Monfils beat a listless Garcia-Lopez despite a minor third-set hiccup. This should be a highly-entertaining match and cases can be made for both players to emerge victorious. I think it comes down to which man can keep a consistent level throughout the duration of the match without suffering any extended stretches of groan-worthy play. With the crowd behind Monfils, him I’m going to pick him in four sets. Monfils 7-6, 6-4, 2-6, 7-6.[polldaddy poll=8096320]
https://twitter.com/augustazeight/status/473897059087810561/photo/1
Another photo (taken today) of Rafa’s tape-free back
https://twitter.com/augustazeight/status/473909644629643264/photo/1
The tape is off so his serve must be back to normal. I am looking forward to the match-up with Ferrer and would be surprised if Rafa doesn’t do in straight sets.
The Murray/Monfils is hard to call because Monfils is an unknown quantity.
I see the opposite: a tight Rafa/Ferru match with Rafa winning and a snoozefest win for Muzza punctuated by the obligatory La Monf antics.
Vamos Rafa!
Let’s do this!!!!!!!!
I think Rafa and Muzz in 4!
4 and 4 sounds right.
I don’t see how Rafa is not in the final come Sunday.
And even Nole will have a hard time then to pry three full sets out of Rafa feral hands. Two, yes, not unlikely. Three, I really don’t think so.
09 on 07 14 14
or:
14 on 07 14 14 if you prefer
Nadal and Murray both in 4 sets. Good call today on Gulbis!
Wednesday’s weather forecast
https://twitter.com/augustazeight/status/473927519201021952/photo/1
Nadal in 3
Murray in 5
Why are Rafa and David playing on Lenglen? Is it possible to take a major away from a country? Germany perhaps could have this major,even Switzerland since Roger is near the end and all the scheduling help couldn’t lead to Stan winning another major.
test
I’m picking Rafa in 3 tight sets and no clue which monfils will show up…but I’d love it if he won.
I am going with Rafa in three sets against Ferrer. I was debating that maybe Ferrer might take a set, but Rafa looks good, the tape is gone and he should be ready.
It’s hard to pick with Murray and Monfils. But I do think that Murray’s tough matches have actually helped him to get into great form. He is battle tested now. Monfils could make a real match of it, but I expect Murray to win in four sets.
yeah…with the tape gone now, rafa must be feeling good. I expect him to cruise through this one in 3 sets.
@vamosrafa,
If you are feeling confident about Rafa’s chances, too, then it’s a good thing! 😉
Looking at the weather forecast, I’m not convinced they’ll even be playing tomorrow. The forecast shows rain all the way through to early evening and winds peaking at about 18 mph at 5 pm. The good news is that if the matches are cancelled, that whichever two move on to the semi-finals would be equally affected in terms of having to play the next day. The forecast for Thurs/Fri/Sat/Sun is good.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/othersports/practice-session-with-rafael-nadal-shows-francis-tiafoe-how-far-he-has-to-go-in-tennis/2014/06/03/1c5a10e4-eb5a-11e3-9f5c-9075d5508f0a_story.html
This is fun to read….vividly describes rafa’s practice session yesterday 🙂
Great article, vamosrafa. Thanks for posting it.
you’r welcome jpacnw ! 🙂 it is an enjoyable read..
“My back can be pretty unpredictable,” said Nadal, who wore thick vertical strips of athletic tape under his shirt. “I’m not lying. It’s totally unpredictable. I don’t want to speak too much about it.”
This is what rafa said after his last match… this is my only concern but knowing that he is not wearing that taping anymore, I am more relieved..
In terms of playing form, I have no doubt rafa will be putting up quite a show
This is what I don’t understand. Rafa brings up the back and then says that he doesn’t want to talk about it. That tells us that it can still be an issue at times. I am surprised that he even mentioned it at all.
Ferrer is physical and never gives matches away. But he hasn’t been able to get Rafa at RG. I wonder if Ferrer will go into the match more confident after having beaten Rafa in MC. But this is a far cry from that tournament. I just hope that the back is okay, because Rafa’s serve has to be working.
This discussion may well be moot, given the weather prediction that jpacnw posted. They may not get to play at all.
yes rafa mentioning the back issue and then saying he does not want to talk about it was strange. Let’s hope it holds up well for the next few days because the next three matches are bound to be very physical
According to the BBC, Andy says Gael has been playing on pain killers for his knees and ankles, so basically, Monfils is injured; in which case, Andy in 3 or 4.
I said the Muzza/LaMonf match was going to be a dud, I expect it will be.
Muzza in the semis comfortably.
Re: the weather. it is virtually impossible to predict precisely when and where showers will fall. I am quite close to Paris and right now we are in sunshine but I can see rain falling 3km away on the other side of the Seine! The forecast is for the rain to clear late afternoon/early evening.
The women’s QF may suffer some delays which would mean the men will not come out till late afternoon or even early evening by which time the rain should have passed through. The bad news is the wind is increasing to 55-60km/35+mph
#FingersCrossed
Radar picture. Rain clouds (green area) are moving from the south-west to the north-east.
https://twitter.com/augustazeight/status/474096606179246080/photo/1
#Weather. Have a feeling this will be the story of the day today actually….
https://twitter.com/bbctennis/status/474070925118554112/photo/1
^^^^what an unattractive view of Paris!
I don’t see much tennis being played today to be honest……………
But then again, apparently the weathermen got the forecast wrong yesterday, let’s hope they are wrong again today!
RT @bgtennisnation: “Let’s hope weatherman wrong today says very cool 80% chance rain. Most of the day,they got it wrong yesterday”
The other day the TV weather bulletin showed a radar picture of where I am which bore no resemblance to the actual weather at that moment. I wanted to phone them up and ask why they didn’t just look out of the window before flashing up satellite shots.
It’s not raining for the moment at RG. People are in their seats on Court waiting for the Over 45s to start their match which is being shown on Eurosport Player.
RT @TomPerrotta: “French Open looking like Oz Open: Nadal & usual suspects on one side, Djokovic & guy on hot streak on the other. Different ending this time?”
The only ending I want is a Rafa win, thank you very much. Couldn’t care less what happens to the rest.
http://ftw.usatoday.com/2014/06/rafael-nadal-birthday-facts-fascinating-french-open-28
Good read, essp points on Rafa reaching 62/107 finals since 2008..thats staggering and how th entire ‘off clay’ arguement is a dud.
Sanju (at 8:28 am),
I posted it yesterday on Rafael Nadal page.
Radar picture (made 30 minutes ago). Rain clouds (green area) are still moving from the south-west to the north-east.
https://twitter.com/augustazeight/status/474131957857935360/photo/1
Prolonged shower here (opposite le Havre) has not reached Paris yet – I’m watching the McEnroe brothers playing Forget and LeClown. My favourite commie Jean Pierre Loth is commentating.
I live in Brussels, which isn’t that far from Paris and it’s pouring down right now!
Shireling (at 10:15 am)
This is for you
https://twitter.com/augustazeight/status/474141705256841216/photo/1
The rain is now falling on Roland Garos. Umbrellas are up but the players are still on court warming up for the under 45s match.
to me, it was inevitable for Rafa to speak about his back issue because EVERYONE saw the tapes on his back…I recall Ricky reacting immediately here on Tenngrand and I also know that my enthusiasm went 99% down when I saw Rafa’s back with those scary tapes…so, of course, the press went on asking questions about it and Rafa explained briefly and said he would prefer not talking about it more…however, media, they are like scorpions and they want to further address Rafa’s injury…I am only afraid that Rafa removed those tapes during the practice session to avoid further talk about it…I know Serbian press does not miss to mention Rafa’s back…
I hope Rafa to beat Ferrer without going distance…I want a NORMAL and not grueling, long-lasting match…I don’t question Rafa’s victory today, I just don’t want to see him play for four hours….Ferrer The Rabbit” is sure capable of playing looong points… 🙁
Asked about Rafa’s serve speed so far, Wilander said Rafa is deliberately tailoring his speed according to who he is playing. He said so far, Rafa has played a few single handed backhanders and all he does is serve to their b/h, he doesn’t need the speed. He said he was sure that Rafa would increase his serve speed when he needs to do so.
He will go for accuracy over speed, particularly against the good returners who feed off fast serves.
I liked Wilander as a player and no doubt he knows about tennis.. but I have to say I dislike him a lot as a commentator ..
Me too.
Correction. I found him boring as a player.
Here we go. Play has been suspended.
RT @jon_wertheim: “Pouring now…discuss : if nadal doesn’t get on, he’ll get no days rest before semis, Djokovic will get three….”
Don’t like the sound of that……..at all!
injustice… 🙁
Last time Nole played RG on three days rest, he lost.
Radar picture (made 30 minutes ago). Rain clouds (green area) are moving from the south-west to the north-east.
https://twitter.com/augustazeight/status/474158860337709056/photo/1
RT @NeilHarmanTimes: “No play until 3 o’clock in Paris. Forecast shows it brightening a touch later”
Hope you’re right, Neil!!
dont worry the forecast aint that bad….rafa will get his match completed….hoping the ladies match gets done with quickly
Dont want to depress you but its Kuznetsova on first and that’s almost bound to go to three sets 🙁
It’s already 15.45pm. Umbrellas still up and no sign of any court preparations.
I’m looking at blue skies showing through fast moving clouds now and the weather front is moving towards Paris. Unless the women get their match over in double quick time and Rafa does the job in three sets it’s looking more and more likely he will have to come back tomorrow.
Take heart everybody. Remember Verdasco nearly killed Rafa in the AO SF yet he still came back on court a scant 24 hours later and you don’t need reminding what happened next.
Hawkeye is right. Kicking his heels for three days is not good mental preparation for Djokovic.
Live from the RG blog:
Official word is still 3 pm but I can’t see that happening myself. Going to be more like 4 pm if you ask me. And even if you don’t ask me, I’m telling you.
Rainy, cool and heavy conditions means the court won’t take Rafa’s spin as well.
Rafa in four.
Monfils out of his league in more ways than one. Murray relished the villain role in Paris.
Muzza in four.
Well, ferrer is not the kind of opponent who can take great adv of wet,heavy conditions against rafa. He does not have the power to hit through rafa on the heavier court. But yes, rafa’s forehand will be less vicious so let’s see how it plays out in actuality.
The match won’t start at least before 3 hours. At least
Lenglen is playing faster than Chartier. How will the cold conditions further affect Rafa on a faster court? Any expert tips?
Rafa double bagled Ginepri on Court 1 in the 1st round so I don’t think the court being faster, in Verdasco’s opinion, has any bearing.
Rafa not having rest before semis does not matter..its the same for both semifinalists.
Its how consecutive days of play(and on top of it if long) will affect him in the final that will matter. Remember 2011 USO where he paid the price for delayed play, 2007 Wimby too.
In short all the circumstances are aligned against Rafa, faster Lenglen court, cold conditions and no sun, playing in top half that plays second, lesser rest before final. Let us see if he will fight through all odds and still emerge victorious
Oh well done Sanju. Never look on the bright side if there is a depressing alternative 🙂
Anyone got some anti-depressants they could send Sanju.
I’m sure the RG staff looked at the weather forecast for the two weeks and decided immediately to have Rafa start second and then skip a day between 1-2 round so that he would have to play his QF smack in the middle of the rain deluge. #conspiracy
Never mind the forecast, Jeu Nadal.
But ask yourself why it is that Roger nearly absolutely? ) always has been scheduled to play first at Slams going on for many years now, regardless of whether he is the current ATP #1, 2, 3, or lower and whether he is the defending champion.
Does being current number 1 and 8 times defending champion (including from last year) not count for anything?
@Sanju,
Keep speaking your truth! If you want to be worried then that’s your right.
They should shift ladies to Court 1, 2 🙂
^^^^^^Clearly not a signed up feminist lol.
Funny!
Sanju Gulbis.
DO YOU?
#ThatSSexist
https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/statuses/474180458146963456
But, the weather forecast is:
https://twitter.com/augustazeight/status/474183463449661440/photo/1
They are uncovering Court Suzanne Lenglen.
The weather forecast for Friday as well as Sunday also doesnt look good. I think we will have a Monday finish this year.
nah, will be Sunday
Good news. Hope they can complete the matches today.
Roland Garros @rolandgarros · 7m
UPDATE: the covers are off the courts. We expect players to walk on soon. Chatrier: Errani-Petkovic; Lenglen: Kuznetsova-Halep #RG14
Trust them to do the worst planning. They could have started all 4 matches together. Execution wise, RG is the worst followed by USO. Wimby and AO are very good
God Kuznotseva first. Jesus it is bound to go 3 (:-..Errani..Petkovic will wrap up much sooner
Play is under way.
Vamos Petko!!! Up an early break!
A Halep-Petko SF would be very nice!
Kuznetsova has taking an MTO after losing the 1st set.
Can anyone concur on what Verdasco said about central court being faster than the rest? if this true it’s yet another nudge from the organisers to limit Rafa’s chances of winning again here
I believe it’s true, but not sure
Perhaps they should schedule the (inevitable?) #RafoleFinal on Court Suzanne Lenglen? 😉
After losing to Murray Verdasco said SL is faster than PC.
Indeed Verdasco did his best to blame this result on the choice of court on Monday night, saying that it was “much faster than Philippe Chatrier [Roland Garros’s centre court]. It was completely a different tournament.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/frenchopen/10870823/Andy-Murray-makes-short-work-of-Fernando-Verdasco-to-reach-quarter-final-of-the-French-Open-at-Roland-Garros.html
Vamos Simona!
I also like Kuzy but was sitting on the fence waiting to see who gets the 1st set……
#GloryHunter
Thx Ricky… well, if it is true it’s just crazy, really.
Petko means business…..
Which means La Monf/Muzza will be on soon….
Based on comments from the past years as well, Lenglen is quicker than Chatrier. BUT, imo, this will have NO bearing on the outcome of this match..
and mind you, rafa too is not too keen about playing on clay courts that play too slow! not saying chatrier plays too slow, it seems to be the ideal clay court…
Petko, that’s disrespectful……………
RT @SI_BTBaseline: “Andrea Petkovic is now returning Errani’s *first serve* from inside the baseline. #RG14”
@vamosrafa,
Right on! Keeping it real!
Petko into her first Slam semi…..
Lucky Muzza and La Monf.
https://twitter.com/WTA/status/474219946017185792/photo/1
C’mon Simona, Vamos!
Gulbis in the semis? Yes please!
RT @christophclarey: “French Open semifinals. Gulbis? Now Petkovic? Our press conference cup runneth over”
Oh nice, Halep on the way…………….
^^^^ she’s doing a best to get off the court as quickly as she can so the boys can have their turn 🙂
I’m surprised Kuztnetsova has caved in without a fight. Guess the MTO could explain it.
Oh Simona………….this is not the time for the heeby jeebies….
Kuzy breaks…
Wouldn’t be surprised if Simona’s gripped by nerves, Kuzy’s been here before whereas this will be a first for her…..
Have put aside everything else today…fully focused on rafa …will be observing closely and enjoying (hopefully) ! VAMOS
Nail that backhand and hammer that serve
@vamorafa,
Great to see you here! I am ready to see Rafa’a match! Let’s hope he comes out blasting that backhand and serve! 🙂
N.O.W S.E.R.V.E I.T O.U.T………………Vamos Simona.
A local sports channel in my area is broadcasting the French open live. I HOPE THEY PUT RAFA’s MATCH ON ! muzz-monf will be on first so I hope they switch it to rafa’s :/
Murray and Monfils are up!
Looks like Sharapova winning this tourney this year!
The weather looks good
Radar picture (made 25 minutes ago). Rain clouds (green area) are moving from west to east.
https://twitter.com/augustazeight/status/474224036281860115/photo/1
Petko wins!!!
Halep wins. Well done, girl…………….
C’mon Rafa!!
Thank goodness the girls didn’t hang around too long.
exactly!
Done ! so rafa will be receiving ferru’s serve in about 20 mins
Well, this is when I say my good-byes Tenngranders. Just don’t have the nerve to watch the Rafa/Ferru match. Enjoy the match!
Hopefully, when I do surface it will be in celebration.
Vamos Rafa!!
rafatime…rubs hands in anticipation. Make it a quick one Rafa. As much as I like Ferru, I don’t want him to win a set.
Rafa wins the coin toss and as usual, chooses to receive.
https://twitter.com/SI_BTBaseline/status/474229964880236544
Go Andy! Love it!
#VillianRole
#OffTopic
It’s back on serve.
^^^^Andy-Monfils that is
It’s hard trying to watch both of these matches at the same time.
Ferrer seems to be in the zone. Rafa seems a little flat at the start. First set crucial.
David is very aggressive. Rafa just broke back. Now on serve 2-3, with Rafa serving. David is launching himself into his forehands. His feet are way off the ground on many of his hits.
Nadal is playing so badly. everything is short. No way he’s winning French open if his form is still this bad at the quarter final stage.
This is the worst Rafa has played on clay this season, which is saying something. How can he be this flat at this stage of a slam.
not anymore!
Rafa looking pedestrian in that first set. Against Djokovic, that would been a bakery product I guess. 🙁
my worst fears…this is what I was hoping would not happen…
terrible way to lose set 1…
Rafa got veryyy tighth in the ending stages….
The strategy for ferrer is simple: Pepper rafa’s backhand ! ferru is using his backhand DTL very frequently. He employed the same patterns in MC and no doing it even better here..
Rafa just has to step up and take charge. He is making mistakes when trying to be aggressive but he’ll have to adjust.. I think the moment rafa gets the lead he’l play better….
Ferrer’s intensity will also drop….i am sure of that….
Oh what a bad game by rafa
15 UE for rafa in set 1 and 70% 2nd serves won by ferrer in set 2… the two most telling stats for me…
rafa made 40+ UE in MC and errors are leaking here again…ferru’s patterns of play are really making rafa uncomfortable…he is keeping the ball from rafa’s forehand…
Yes, it was a bad way to lose that first set. Right now Ferrer seems to know exactly what he wants to do. Rafa has to get aggressive. I was worried that the win in MC might give Ferrer some belief. He’s come out playing very well.
I hope that Ferrer cools offf.
don’t worry..not only will ferrer cool off somewhat but rafa will raise his level….i have faith in him…
Rafa just LOVES to give us heartaches!….lol!!
Rafa’s backs sems to be warming up!…..hehe!!
Class act of sportsmanship from Murray there conceding the point to Monfils
this match cannot be completed today..pity
Rafa’s timing has gone to pot. Serve has gone to pot.
Murray is cruising comfortably. Interesting the crowd are being more than even handed. There is a large contingent of Murray supporters.
Rafa seems to be feeling the effects of playing a top 10er for the first time this tourney. The level of competition has gone up considerably from his last four matches.
Cant make up my mind which wing he is more error prone. FH UFE is just so astonishing
true.but it is the backhand that is being targeted to drawl attackable balls and prevent rafa from taking the initiative
Yeah and especially on the service games, he is not at all comfortable. There seems to be pressure on his service games all the time. Hope he breaks Ferrer now for the set.
exactly…was hoping for the same… I am nervous about this game now….I hope its a comfortable hold…the backhand seems to be getting worse ..
This is so, so bad from Rafa
Nadal’s serve is way way down in speed today, at least 10mph slower. Back is getting worse
Rafa’s backhand has completely disappeared. He looks lost out there. Congrats to djokovic on his first French Open.
Serving for the set.
#Yikes
#SteadyRafa
#FingersCrossed
I dont know what to make of Rafa this evening. He seems distracted.
Am glad I’m not watching win or lose.
I can only enjoy watching him when he’s near or at his best.
VAMOSRAFA!!!!!!
Wow! That was unexpected. Ferru returned like Rafa in that game 🙂
Perhaps this will fire up Rafa’s confidence.
trying to read between the lines, not able to watch the match…
Simply a case of nerves ? (Besides Ferrer doing what he does well.)
Vamos Rafa!
Rafa just needs time to settle……..i miss the days when Rafa would play with no fear!!! Poor thing is getting old….sigh!!!
https://twitter.com/tennisabstract/status/474254973799501825
https://twitter.com/ESPNTennis/status/474255310035505152
Now how did Rafa break Ferrer at love?!
4 errors from Ferru
Ah the FH’s are landing in too. This could be a set like the 3rd set of last year’s semi
Wow, is Rafa now on FIRE?!!
More like Ferru’s level has gone down. He is the making a lot of UFE’s now. I think his belief would go down for taking the third set. Rafa gets a warning as I speak
Even when rafa is struggling, it isn’t easy to sustain your best level for the duration of out of five sets.
I hope I get to write this again on Sunday. Or to write: when Rafa is not struggling much, it …
I hope you say. When Rafa is on, it does not matter who is across 🙂 Or that the final is so reminiscent of 2008
Now you’re really dreaming :-). It does not have to be that lopsided… it would utterly shock me (and ND). But I wish I can see the “does not matter who is across :-)”.
phewwwwwww
Is it only me or do you think that Rafa comes at the short end of long rallies these days.
I havent paid attention to the statistics on that but definitely today he was losing out to Ferru in a lot of the long rallies. My memory of the match is a bit hazy because I was trying to keep an eye on the other SF at the same time. After several days of trying to monitor several matches at once I’m boss-eyed and tennised out.
Rafa appears to be cruising now…double break in the 3rd set.
Just as he was settling down in this match Nadal gets a T.V Hope it doesn’t distract him.
Monfils has upped his level and the crowd are getting excited. Murray serving to stay in this set.
Why, oh why didn’t Refa come out firing on all four cylinders. This match would be wrapped up by now. Instead he will have to come out to finish tomorrow.
Unless he serves up something from the quick-baking oven… is there still time for that?
Ferru should co-operate
He gave his friend a bagel, knowing he would’ve preferred a baguette.
Ooo!! Can the match finish today? I certainly hope so
a 6-0 set!! gees how cold is it in Paris today? people are all bundled up and wrapped in blankets.
And even in that cold, Rafa was sweating buckets in the first set.
I noticed that too. It must have been the equivalent of first night nerves.
And now Andy decides to give La Monf a set. Both matches have completed 3 sets
In their form this week, who is a tougher out of 5 on clay opponent for Rafa, David or Andy? I would have thought David. (Not that Andy is going to be easy should they play each other on Friday.)
_IF_ Rafa could duplicate the duration of the last set they’d only need another 17 minutes of play.
Glad I’m not watching this match. Breaks in the 4th and then gives up BPs next game.
#Nervrous
3XBP for Rafa.
C’mon and get the double!!!
#VAMOS
Rafa seems to have sucked the belief out of Ferru. There is a sea change in Rafa from the first set
10 games in a row.
#BetweenTheEars
But overall, over the last several tournaments, the #BetweenTheEars has been steadily improving, no?
Yes but needs to peak in time for Sunday.
Keep this up Rafa and you’ll have time to go out to dinner.
Even with Rafa winning so many games, I go into fits when I see him giving so many BPs.
Murray on the other hand has run into a spot of rough water………………..he’s been broken at the start of the 4th set.
Give back a break.
Considering previous 10 games, fair trade.
Lack of daylight might be just what the doctor ordered for Muzza.
3XBP for Rafa again!
Get it back Rafa!!!
VAMOOOOOOOOSSSS!!!
Yes!!!
Ferrer’s level has really dropped and La Monf’s has really risen. Looks like that match is going 5. Feel bad for the winner to have to come back tomorrow to finish and then Friday to play Rafa.
I don’t.
#Biased
Now hold your serve Rafa. HOLD!!!!
https://twitter.com/SteveTignor/status/474268185990938626
#VAMOS
Ferru is out of the match, disappointing for him after 1st set
Rafa is still the boss.
Vamos!!!!!!!!!
Just what the doctor ordered. Sorry I started to doubt you in that first set.
Phewww!
Have a nice day off tomorrow Rafa and Rafans.
#VamosRafa
#VamostsEarnests
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6Sxv-sUYtM&feature=kp
😀 😀 😀
Monf and Murray vindicating the chatrier scheduling..
They can keep PC, it’s theirs for as long as they want it in the Qtr F.
I did not expect Ferrer to even take a set, but he deserved it, because he came out firing. Stiil he must feel demoralized that he was absolutely no match for Rafa in the end.
Vamos Rafa
Rafa was very mediocre in the first. Spraying errors all over the place. How does he switch modes so quickly. A very encouraging performance.
You beauty!!
https://twitter.com/ESPNTennis/status/474270541663055873/photo/1
Rafa still leads in the “less amount of games lost” department.
Starting more shakily against Ferrer who defeated him (finally) on clay last time they met, and then improving to take the last two sets with flour (bakery products), is perhaps better for Rafa than winning this in 3. If, when he faces Novak on Sunday it is mostly the belief that will be a hurdle. If the psychology was not there then the improved Novak is still no match for Rafa at RG.
#BetweenTheEars
@chloro,
I agree that it was better for Rafa to have to come back after losing that first set. He hasn’t been tested at all so far. Finally he came up against an opponent who, for at least a short while, was able to play well enough to push him. You see how Rafa responded in that second set? That’s what Ferrer forced him to do – raise his level of play.
I am not even thinking about the final. Rafa has to get past Murray first and it’s not going to be easy. Murray may have struggled, but he’s been tested and pushed and has gotten himself into fighting form. He will come out motivated for sure.
I am grateful that Rafa had easy matches in the early going, because he should be fresh for the semis. He will know that Murray is a difficult opponent. So this should be a good match.
Folks I just peeped in to check the scores as I do not have NeoSports where its being shown in India
Was Rafa good? How much out of 10? What worked? What didn’t? And finally – hows the back?
Your loss was our gain 😉 Seriously though, it was probably for the best. That first set was giving everybody watching a collective heart attack. Did you follow live scoring?
i find that even more stressful than seeing it on screen particularly when they are going backwards and forwards with interminably long tie breaks. The suspense is unbearable..
#JustTeasingYou
No I did not follow anything. I just peeped in first 2 hrs post the match as I could not sleep and Rafa was 2 sets to 1 up and 1 0 in 4th..I shut it again and logged 25 minutes later to see he won it 🙂
Yes following live scores can be the worst. You dont even know what the heck is going on, how are the points won or lost, no feel of the game at all.
Rafa got the job done!
https://twitter.com/RAFAddicted/status/474271979936432128/photo/1
Score looks too lopsided in last 2 sets and very happy match got over today too
@Sanju,
It’s all good! Rafa turned on the after burners in the last two sets! He really started firing on all cylinders. I said in my prediction that Ferrer might get a set, but still thought it should go three sets. What I like is that Rafa had a test and had to come back from behind. That’s a good thing!
Be happy! Oh and continue speaking your truth! You worry and get down because you care so much about Rafa. I get it and totally understand! 🙂
Thanks NNY for the update. Murray next – another see saw based on what happened in Rome unless Rafa really comes out firing and Murray is deflated.
Murray is serving Monfils with a bagle too in the final set. Murray has struggled to win his matches, but I think he will be in the SF.
Looking like Andy might wrap it up in the nick of time.
So Andy and Muzza back to what they do most of the times- meeting in the semis of the majors
Rafa had zero UEs in the 3rd set.
Muzza/Rafa it is…….
My goodness, after not playing each other for what, 3 years? Rafa and Muzza are going to meet again in the space of 2 months……….
space of 1 month..not 2
Vamos Ernests!!
vamosrafa/NNY – maybe either of you can tell me 🙂 Was Rafa good/excellent/average? How much out of 10? What worked? What didn’t? And finally – hows the back?
@Sanju,
I replied to you above! But I will repeat it! Rafa was on fire in those last two sets. The best he’s looked so far. But please stay here and live blog and don’t feel you have to leave. Don’t let anyone tell you what to say or what to think! I know that you care. I got down too after the first set. I was worried, but hopeful that the warrior in Rafa would come out and go for it. He did!
Is that a dig at me NNY?
No NNY I would have live blogged but NeoSports the channel that is having exclusive rights to telecast in India, my dish /cable operator is not relaying, hence I am helpless that I cannot watch any match of French Open. Its useless trying to follow live scores without seeing the mtach – it gives you more stress 🙂
Vamos Muzza!!
https://twitter.com/ATPWorldTour/status/474276766677491713/photo/1
@ed,
Do you want it to be? Regarding your comment @ 12:44 am, I believe that everyone should have their say and express what they are feeling while live blogging Rafa’s matches. I don’t see Sanju being anything like willmw, who really was over the top with the trashing of Rafa and the gloom and doom and calling the match over. That was really annoying, even though it was his/her right to say it. But Sanju loves Rafa and freaks out like anyone would when things aren’t going well in a match. I was surprised to see Rafa lose the first set. It did freak me out. However, I am hesitant to say what I think when things are tough in his matches. I know better. So I make a choice to try to keep my feelings and thoughts to myself. When I do get to see his matches live, I don’t come on here. I may say a few things, but then I just stay away.
Sanju is just being honest. I don’t know why you and others seem to get so annoyed at him. He is a good poster who is just keeping it real.
So if you have an issue, then say so.
NNY I haven’t posted on here for quite some time. No idea what you are on about. I check Tenngrand during slams and masters but v seldom post.
don’t worry about it
Hey its okay..Dont fight :-). I think when he plays bad, it stresses all out and then when someone vents out their frustration by taking off on Rafa and his low quality play (when hes not playing well), it makes others feel worse 🙂
I know I am not that positive on Rafa like few here are..but trust me, there are many worse than me :-). I am not taking any names :-). However we all love Rafa and there is no question about it.
NNY
I’ve always assumed Sanju was female. Whatever, he/she knows I’m just teasing and takes my comments in good part. You really don’t need to get stressed over it – I’m sure Sanju will take me to task should my remarks cause offence.
@Sanju,
Oh, Regarding your response @ 4:16 am,I didn’t realize that you can’t see the matches. However, now I do remember that you did post something to the effect that the matches weren’t being shown. Well that is even worse. Just following the live score would explain why you were so stressed out. So that’s why you asked both myself and vamosrafa how Rafa looked in the match. It must be so frustrating for you not to be able to see the matches live at all. That would drive me crazy! Hang in there! If you want to know how Rafa is playing, just ask either of us. 🙂
I hope Rafa Murray get scheduled first but fat chance that will happen? They will be put 2nd I am sure as their match is more prime time than Djoko-Gulbis
@Sanju,
I second your sentiments. I get why people don’t like when some get negative if Rafa is having a tough time in a match. I brought up willmw as a prime example of how it can really get out of control. I get that. But sometimes it would just be nice to come on here and say what I think. My point was that most times it comes from a place of caring, maybe too much. It’s hard for me to watch when things aren’t going well for Rafa. It just hurts to see it. But sometimes it’s helpful to just vent a little on the live blog. I don’t think anyone has come close to what willmw used to do.
Regarding your last sentence, that is true. It’s why I wish some would cut others a bit of slack. As I said before, if someone really didn’t care about Rafa, then they wouldn’t bother saying anything positive or negative. It’s because we want him to win, we want the best for him. We do all love Rafa. That is what should be kept in mind. 🙂
@willmw,
Sorry but that’s just the way I saw it. I was not the only one. I know you said that it was your way of coping when Rafa is having a tough time and things aren’t looking good. You took a lot more grief from others on TT. I tried not to say anything at the time. You know how people felt because they said so. I thought Sanju was getting a bad rap.
Since you obviously read here, then maybe you should join in. 🙂
@ed,
Thanks for your response @ 5:18 am. It’s nice to know that it was meant as just teasing. I really like Sanju, even with his worrying ways because I guess that I identify in some way. I don’t say it much here, but I am one who is a born worrier. Especially when it comes to Rafa!
Again, thanks for the clarification. Sorry for misunderstanding your comments. 🙂
NNY
For years I have worried about your anxiety levels. The very first exchange we ever had was when you took umbrage at my suggestion you should calm down it was not good for you. lol.
What I would give to never hear the words Nadal and Soderling spoken in the same sentence again……….
RT @SteveTignor : “Nadal win little like win over Soderling in Wimby quarter 2010. Tough opponent, slow start, blowout end. Didn’t lose a set in semi or final”
#LetItGo
He is right though..right analogy..If the semi/final result repeats..it will be great 🙂
The longer Rafa remains unbeaten in RG, greater the legend of Soderling becomes 🙂
^^True dat………
LOL…Wonder if Sod sits and watches RG every year and cackles when no one beats Rafa. His records remains untarnished.
This is looking like 2011..Rafa in 2011 played Soderling in QF(finalist of 2010), Murray in semis, Fed in final
In 2014 played Ferrer in QF (finalist of 2013), Murray in semis and ………
IN 2011, Rafa was struggling to put the likes of Andujar, Isner away in the earlier rounds
yeah, that was the RG season where Rafa was the lowest in motivation, sighting being tired of so many years on the tour… then did better in the second week. A few tournaments ago we were predicting that come the first week at RG this year Rafa would not be like in 2011.
#PeakingWhenItMattersMost
#SorryNole
Rafa and Ferru spent time together before the match 🙂
https://twitter.com/TheSliceTweets/status/474209345488830464/photo/1
^^Nice picture, thanks @augusta08
Warm up exercises
https://twitter.com/TheSliceTweets/status/474209345488830464/photo/1
Warm up exercises
https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/statuses/474229715726004225
Ricky, please delete the double post of the picture!
RT @christophclarey : “Nadal defends Andy Murray the claycourter, and says “He’s a candidate to win Roland Garros””
#Truth
Monfils explaining his 5th set meltdown……………sort of:
“It was getting a bit dark, we couldn’t see all that well, but I I really wanted to finish tonight because I knew that he was not in great shape,” said Monfils.
“I felt better. Maybe that’s why I was a bit rushed in attacking him. I’m very frustrated.”
http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/tennis/27706593
And maybe this explains Rafa’s 1st set funk and why he opened the bakery stall in the 3rd and 4th sets!
RT @christophclarey: “Nadal makes it clear that he was surprised not to play against Ferrrer on center court and would have liked to play Ferrer on center court”
Any chance they’ll schedule the final not on center court? 😉
Well, nice to hear Rafa express his true feelings about these court snubs, up to now it’s Benito who’s been talking. I think it’s a sign he is relaxing more as he nears the business end of the tournament.
Muzza won’t be easy……….
[polldaddy poll=8101608]
[polldaddy poll=8101615]
Other Spaniards in the semis:
https://twitter.com/WTA/status/474292965720870912/photo/1
…and Marcel Granollers/Marc Lopez in the Men’s Doubles.
I am curious to see Ricky’s prediction for the semis. I voted for Rafa in four sets over Murray. Also, Novak in four sets over Gulbis.
great match! Ferry deserved to win the first set, he was playing really well…I also think Rafa paid the price for not being really tested at this RG until today…his previous opponents were not good ‘testing products’ so I find this match of huge importance for Rafa’s mental toughness and form going further…If Rafa’s back is ok, which it seems to be the case, Murray should start to be worried…
Bravo Rafa for finishing this one before it the dark…I was not able to watch the last set as I had my own obligations, but now I am going to watch the replay and enjoy every second of it!!!
Vamos Rafa! Five down, two to go! 😎
Six more sets. Hopefully in straights!!
Audio. Rafa’s post-match press conference (20:19 minutes; in English until 9:47)
http://www.tennistopic.com/arthur-ashe/audios/sorprende-haber-jugado-en-la-pista-central/
https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/474285093352394752/photo/1
Thanks for posting all of the audio links to all of Rafa’s pressers augusta as they only post a fraction of it on RG main site.
#Vamos
Yes, it’s wonderful to hear Rafa’s analysis of the match. I think this match will really help prepare him for meeting Murray in the semis. Ferrer did push Rafa for a set and that’s how he managed to take one from him. But to see Rafa respond the way he did and just turn the match around and take complete control, was a joy. He’s had an easy path and that can be both good and bad. Rafa will be fresh as he heads into the semis. But he wasn’t really tested until now. I have to believe that his performance and the quality of the tennis he produced in this match, will give him confidence and good feelings.
I also wanted to say that I don’t care where Rafa plays as long as he keeps on winning! However, I am not pleased that the French disrespected him by putting him on Suzanne Lenglen court. But the simple truth of it is that Rafa will not be denied or stopped by any petty scheduling on the part of the organizers of this event. Because he is a great champion, he will rise above it. 🙂
Rafa has most wins here but I am sorry to ssay execution and management wise, RG is the worst out of the 4 slams. Forget having no roof, they have no flood lights too? In 2014?
On top of it, any slam which prefers their home player over a World No 1 and 8 time champ is downright partisan.
Both the matches had to race against time yesterday to finish, when they had lost almost 4 hours due to rain, I cant understand how did they not start all 4 matches yesterday together. What if the mens matches went longer, it would be so unfair to come and play today and they are putting this half at a real disadvantage compared to the other half.
Well I just wonder would they have put Federer on Lenglen ahead of their own.
More than just partisanship at play, no?
I think I’ll stop here.
Ahh Murray is really talking.
Despite the facts and figures stacking up against him, Murray believes he has the mental and physical weapons to shatter the Nadal legend.
Unlike his loss in 2011, Murray is now a two-time Grand Slam title winner himself and his confidence is buoyed by having taken a set off Nadal in Rome last month.
“I obviously know how to win these tournaments now; back then I didn’t. I was trying extremely hard, but I had never done it,” said Murray who has yet to win a clay court title and has never made the final on the sport’s most challenging and wearying surface.
But he believes that there are cracks, albeit small ones, in the famed Nadal armour that can be exploited and he saw enough in Rome to justify his confidence.
“I definitely learned some things in that match. It was quite clear in my head, as well, what was working and what wasn’t,” he said.
“It was obviously different conditions here and a different court, different balls. When we played in Rome it was extremely cold and wet. I have been told it’s meant to be 25 or 26 degrees on Friday.”
The weather could play a crucial role with Nadal preferring warm, sunny weather which allows him to dictate the pace of the game and the ball
I thought Ferru was going to be a real test, and he was, for a set and a half. But I believe Muzza will be an even bigger test. Muzza is stronger than Ferru, both mentally and physically and is not going to go away in a 3rd or 4th or 5th set. He has a better 1st serve than Ferru and a better BH. He has better court craft. Rafa cannot afford to come out “cold”, he has to hit the ground running.
Not surprised Muzza thinks he can win, Rafa has given everybody in the locker-room that belief, now he has to un-do it, the hard way…
I am not looking forward to Friday……..
Vamos Rafa!!
Agree it will be a sterner test. Rafa has to be sharp from the outset. Only thing that gives me hope are the lapses Murray suffered in his matches against Kohls and Monfils.
Not to mention the lapse he suffered in Rome against Rafa. He was leading by a break in the deciding set, no? and then he had a mental lapse and Rafa capitalized…..
Augusta – Our weather expert :-), warm and sunny on Friday?
Sanju (at 5:32 am)
I’m not an expert, I only copy expert opinions.
https://twitter.com/augustazeight/status/474427926637993984/photo/1
I would venture to suggest that Muzza has one of the most acute tennis brain out there. He knows what to do instinctively: what held him back in the past is the mental belief. Last night he dealt with difficult conditions against the flaky Monf and but for the fact he sometimes failed to execute what was otherwise the right choice of shot he might well of won in straight sets. That and, as ritb says above, the sudden lapses in concentration.
Rafa is sometimes prey to the same problem! I remember to this day the nightmare when he went walkabout in the 2nd set of the SF against Djokovic at the Olympics.
I would like to claim some credit for my interpretation of the official forecasts 🙂
I was much closer than the people at RG who kept giving start times that had to be revised several times.
Sometimes it pays to look out of the window hehe
^^Thanks and well done @ed251137! Your work is not done yet. There’s Friday and Sunday to go. Of course I am assuming our boy will be playing on Sunday, why else would he have hung around this long, for the scenery? I don’t think so! : D
Augusta: If you check lachainemeteo now you will see the time for the cloudy patch has gone back to 19.00hrs.
One way or another I reckon it is safe to assume the SF will be played in ideal conditions for Rafa.
I am more worried about Sunday. The sudden hot spell with a SE wind heralds thunderstorms arriving on the Monday. We have to hope those don’t arrive earlier than the forecast time!!
Rafa on his FB page: ¤¤ Very happy about today’s victory. Thank you [fans] very much for your support! ¤¤
(The watch he’s wearing is not the same he wears on the court)
https://twitter.com/augustazeight/status/474421581788499968/photo/1
Rafa on his Twitter page: ¤¤ Very happy about today’s victory. Thank you [fans] very much for your support! ¤¤
(The watch he’s wearing is not the same he wears on the court)
https://twitter.com/augustazeight/status/474421581788499968/photo/1
Sorry for the double post. I thought I failed to post.
Apparently, It was Murray’s team who pushed for him to be on PC because he hadn’t played there all tournament. Murray gets preferential treatment at Wimbledon, he is ranked 8th in the world at the moment, he is not a past FO champion so what’s his case to be given priority over the 8 times champion and world #1?
I would like to think Muzza played on Chatrier because of Monfils, the local boy. However, it is telling that Rafa was surprised to be assigned Lenglen. It really would be nice if RG tournament officials ran the tournament so IT stopped being the story, and the players and tennis were.
Anyway, it’s over now but the scheduling debacle is not over yet. I bet Novak/Gulbis will be scheduled to play first on Friday, starting at 14h00 and depending on Gulbis’s mood, may not end till 17h00. We know Rafa/Muzza is not going to be a straight sets affair so there will be added uncertainty of playing to beat the darkness for both men.
Honestly RG officials ought to be embarrassed, their tournament seems like something out of a Dickens novel compared to current ATP tournaments, never mind other Slams. It’s 2014 for goodness’s sake. We now take Wi-Fi on the grounds for granted, never mind flood lights. It’s like being thrown back in time, not in a nice way.
ritb: “We know Rafa/Muzza is not going to be a straight sets affair………….”
How do you know that. Rafa is not Khols or Monfils.
It is likely to take 4 I think. Murray will come to play
@nadline10, precisely because neither are Kohls or Monfils is the reason I do not expect a blow-out either way. I am going by the play in their match in Rome. I am assuming both men will play at the same level at least. I expect Rafa to pull through but not in straight sets. Of course if he does pull through in straights I will be even happier, just not expecting it!
I tend to agree with nadline…I think Murray poses less threat to Rafa than Ferry at the moment…This Rafa is a whole lot different than the one in Rome…I have a feeling that Rafa will deal with Andy in a fashionable way… 🙂
I hope @nadline10 and @natashao2013 are right and I am wrong! This is one time I don’t mind having egg splattered on my face! But honestly guys, we have to agree to disagree on this one, like @Sanju, I see Muzza coming out to play and taking it to Rafa.
Do you guys really think Muzza would fade the way Ferru faded after losing the 2nd set yesterday? To me that is the key, Muzza’s mental strength compared to Ferru’s. Ferru openly said, in his presser, he threw in the towel after he lost the 2nd set. Is that something we can expect Muzza to do?
During the match in Rome, I got the impression that Murray dominated the 1st set totally but on watching the recording, I realized that Murray didn’t do anything special other that his fantastic retrieving but Rafa was mis-timing the ball and just missing making a lot of errors.
I think, for both of them, it was a good thing they played there because Rafa may also have been a little bit Murray-rusty after their last match in Tokyo in 2011. The ice has now been broken and I think normal service will be resumed.
Rome was wet and old. If it will be 26 plus and not wet and a bit of good sun on Friday, Rafa will be at an advantage.
I agree my friend…and one more thing, I watched the replay of the match Murray/Monfils…I could not come to senses how different the match was from what I saw on Lenglen court with long-fast-30+ rallies of Rafa/Ferrer…Murray/Monflis match was SLOW…The Chatrier plays as the slower court and it’s more suitable for Rafa…
Murray said, before the match, that Monfils was on pain killers for his knees and ankles so he must have expected a blow out, which it appeared to be in the beginning, but I’m sure he did not expect a 5 setter.
Rafa’s on court interview for Eurosport.
Video. Rafael Nadal Interview / QF RG14
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x1yns9i_rafael-nadal-interview-qf-rg14_sport?start=26
Via In Rafa We Trust.
¤¤ Toni Nadal in L’Equipe on putting Rafa on Lenglen: “Lenglen? It’s bad for us. I though that after playing the first round there it was over. I think Wimbledon is nicest: the champion starts the defence of his title on Centre Court. Normally, a quarter final between the world number one and number five, it’s for Centre. I don’t think it’s good putting it elsewhere. It’s a mistake. They would never put Federer off Centre in Madrid because Verdasco was still playing. It’s true there was still a Frenchman. But a tournament as prestigious as this one shouldn’t take that into account. It’s true Murray hadn’t played Centre yet, but maybe that, too, is the tournament’s fault. ”
Asked if it’s serious: “If it’s serious, it’s more for the tournament than for us. But it’s not serious.” ¤¤
^^Totally agree with Uncle Toni’s comments. It’s no skin off Rafa’s nose, he played on Lenglen, and won. It speaks volumes about RG, not Rafa, the way they treat their former Champion. People compare tournaments, and RG are not doing themselves any favours. Pity, because RG has more going for it to rival Wimbledon in the cache stakes. If only those in charge had savvy………..
…and Uncle Toni’s example of Verdasco-Federer in Madrid is compelling. I am changing my mind. I initially thought favouring Monfils by putting him on Chatrier was reasonable, I am now convinced it was not.
..and I like that Uncle T is publicly standing up for Rafa.
It’s going to be close, Murry is playing very well, I give it a 50-50
You were the only one who in the Rafa Stan match called out that Rafa wont win and it happened
I see your message above as a warning sign/bad omen (:-
Made your day, has it Sanju that there is a bad omen on the horizon for Rafa?
Not just that in the USO final 2013, you confidently said Rafa will win without dropping a set.
Your message above surely giving me worries
Sanju, why don’t you go to Tennis-x where you’ll get a lot of delight from people predicting doom and gloom for Rafa?
I am worried enough for Rafa ..I rather read positive posts to soothe my worries.
@nadline,
MatsW mentioned that Murray seemed to have felt his legs again in this match…playing another five-setters will do no good to him…I watch Andy’s on-court grimacing and he most of the time looks like he is dying of pain or anything out there…unbelievable… Monf also said that he wanted to continue playing because he felt Murray was tired…and then Andy goes on and wins the fifth with zero…but certainly LaMonf had nothing left in the tank for that fifth set…
The only thing is, Murray grimacing and grabbing his body parts is part of the scenery. Most of the time it means nothing, he just uses it to put his opponent off their guard, just like Monfils does as well. Having said that, I would be surprised if Murray is not suffering some fatigue after his grueling matches.
I simply don’t think Murray is ready to beat Rafa on clay…certainly not on a five-set occasion…I also think that it was not only Ferry capitulating last night after the second set but rather Rafa raising his level tremendously…I think this is the peak we were looking for from Rafa…there is more room to improve which will be required for Nole/Gulbis but I really think Rafa the way he plays atm is ready to beat Murray in a fairly comfortable way…
Vamos Rafa!
^^^I agree, Rafa said he changed tactics in the 2nd set because he was not feeling his b/h in the first set so made errors and couldn’t do what he wanted to do. Murray is still playing defense most of the time and he had a couple of long matches, surely, that’s bound to take a toll on his physique.
I have a feeling they will be the 2nd match on.
Definately 2nd match on
I also like that U. Toni is stepping it up a bit, enough is enough. The organisers follow up on the FR crowd’s whim, they know that the FR crowd here is, for the most part, sick and tired of seeing Rafa win; they do respect him, how can they not?, but for sure they’d love to see someone else get it, they do every year.. you can rest assured that it aint warming for the FR to see so many Spaniards stealing the cake again and again.. so the organisation rigs accordingly, pathetic cause they lose credibility
Is the crowd really sick and tired of seeing Rafa win? His wins are not boring, especially in the last rounds. And the history he has been making at RG is of the highest level. It is something to be a witness to that in person.
The majority of the crowd was already “sick” of Rafa as they fervently demonstrated in his lone loss there in 2009.
Or maybe it was just 10 loud Fedfans. I could be wrong.
Anyone willing to make excuses for the French crowd’s poor behavior towards Rafa is welcome to do so, I am not. It is clear, to me at least, they would rather see someone else win than Rafa and over the years, they have made a poor job of hiding that. Poor, in my opinion……….
The fact that THIS issue is only ever raised at RG, never at Wimbledon or the other Slams says it all really.
Well if racism and federazzi fanaticism, is an excuse, then yes I am making excuses for them.
The latter was at play during his MTO in Melbourne also.
^^Agree. And plain racism does make people uncomfortable, hence the “see no evil, hear no evil approach”. Growing up in apartheid South Africa weaned me of that approach, fortunately.
rafaisthebest (at 1:19 pm)
— to make excuses for the French crowd’s poor behavior towards Rafa —
The French crowd hasn’t behaved badly towards Rafa! The LEGION of the FEDERAZZI booed in 2009!!!
Okay @augusta08, maybe I’m just a grizzled ol’ cynic…. 😉
Splitting hairs. Huge overlap in the Venn Diagram of Federazzi and RG corwd. At least 70%.
#StandingOvations
hawkeye63 (at 2:16 pm)
—StandingOvations—
Rafa always gets standing ovations!
hawkeye63 (at 2:16 pm)
I addition to my previous comment (at 2:21 pm)
Click on the symbol of a speaker
https://twitter.com/augustazeight/statuses/474557194307141632
Rafa has thousands of fans at RG. Never said otherwise.
(Federer has much more.)
@chloro,
I completely agree ! Well said! I consider it a privilege to watch Rafa do his thing at RG! 🙂
hawkeye63 (at 2:36 pm)
You shouldn’t believe the legionaries of the Federazzi.
I don’t believe them. Judged for myself.
sanju, would it square your pitch if you know that I predicted that Rafa would win the USO and beat Ferru yesterday, or that he would beat Thiem easily? You’ll need some more negativity regarding Rafa to keep you going.
Nadline – You will never predict against Rafa , we all know 🙂 I hope all your positive predictions regarding him come true and that includes RG2014 and many more ahead.
Corr
‘if you KNEW’
Rafa at practice today (on Thursday)
https://twitter.com/bluemathilde/status/474491792885563392/photo/1
Vamos Rafa!
I’m surprised he even practices at RG wearing that colour 🙁
https://twitter.com/LuisGatTWI/statuses/474518131105607680
Confirmation
https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/statuses/474518950802644992
^^Thanks @augusta. Progress at least, starting at 13h00 instead of the usual 14h00
If they can bring it forward by 1 hour why not play safe and make it 2 hours?
Dont tell me. It’s the TV scheduling 🙁
I thought that Rafa/Murray would be 2nd on because they need more rest time.
^^Plus Gulbis is not considered a big draw and it suits Novak better.
#ResidentCynic
#TheyWantANewChampion
The more popular semi is always put 2nd for more TV viewership. Eg in 2011, Rafas half played second but his semi was first before Fed-Djoko. In 2012 again his half played second but his semi against Ferrer was first followed by Fed-Djoko
In both cases Fed-Djoko matches were meant to be more competitive grabbing more eyeballs.
So now it all depends on the length of the lst SF. I think Gulbis will make it very competitive for first two sets (more than likely taking one) but his lack of experience at the sharp end of Slams says to me it will be a win for Djokovic in four sets entailing at least one TB. That suggests a 4+ hour match. I cant see Rafa starting much before 6 o’clock which would give roughly 3.5 hours to complete his SF. It’ll be touch and go if his match is completed.
RG have cocked up big time this year.
well the schedule of the semi has always been like that at RG,no?
No, they’ve always started at 14h00 until this year.
yes yes, they have started at 13h00 this year so why are you guys complaining then? lol
rafaisthebest says: June 5, 2014 at 12:17 pm
^^Thanks @augusta. Progress at least, starting at 13h00 instead of the usual 14h00
I could be wrong, but the above does not sound like a complaint to me, quite the opposite.
Yes, your are right but I think the start used to be at 13.00h not 14.00h back in the days when I attended SF Fridays. I went for three years in a row and it rained every time but they still managed to complete both matches.
It was always Roger who played the 2nd match.
Rafa and Nole are both equally heavy favourites at 6:1 to win their respective semis.
The win was of paramount importance for rafa in many ways…but he will have to raise his level if he is to win RG…
The primary concern is the backhand. Rafa started the match with his backhand firing and he even hit a perfect DTL backhand winner to win the second point of the match. He was spanking it early on but then started leaking errors. Soon, he started giving more air to his backhand and even started missing routine backhands. Rafa said he was feeling his backhand as good as ever in the practice session so that was weird. He improved his backhand slightly as the match progressed but far from the level needed to defeat djokovic and boss andy.
Ferru very cleverly kept evading the rafa forehand in the first set. He was hitting his backhand DTL more than 70% of the times ! Rafa adjusted and somehow started hitting more forehands. Rafa also stepped up the court to return 2nd serves , which proved to be handy.
I am happy with rafa’s forehand. I am really happy with his fighting spirit . He is also moving quite well. Someone made a good point that this was rafa’s first test of the tournament so he was caught off guard. I agree…rafa will peak in the next matches…
Rafa was very good in dispatching ferrer 6-0 6-1 in the final sets but I don’t think we should read too much into the scoreline. While rafa significantly improved his level, ferrer just wilted ! He played poorly once rafa won the 2nd set and only challenged rafa in patches. That , obviously, has to do with being overhelmed by rafa winning the 2nd set. The biggest improvement was on winning 2nd serves. Rafa did exceptionally well there after set 1 !
It was interesting to hear from ferrer that he did not believe he could beat rafa after losing set 2. “I don’t usually do this, but I thought, I’m not going to be able to come back into the match. I thought, No, no, not against Rafa. He’s such good a player.”
So the intimidation factor of facing rafa at RG is very much alive. Murray and esp Djokovic have a stronger mentality than ferrer has but everyone is afraid of the legend rafa is at RG. Even djokovic’s mind left the court for loitering around in the 3rd set of last year’s SF… I don’t think anyone can sustain the intensity rafa has for five sets
vamosrafa,
Thanks so much for your insight and thoughts about Rafa’s match with Ferrer. I value your input and respect your depth of knowledge. Hearing what Ferrer said about not having the belief that he could win, tells us all we needed to know about why those last two sets were so lopsided. But I still believe that Rafa was able to change his tactics, become more aggressive and get the upper hand when it counted in that second set.
Murray is tougher mentally and has the game to challenge Rafa. I am not thrilled with Murray’s comments because I believe talk is cheap. You don’t see Rafa saying he knows how to beat Murray. Rafa will do his talking on the court. But I do think this will be a tough match. I do not see it being a three set match. It’s going at least four sets. I also expect Rafa to step it up and raise his game for this one. This is where he always seems to peak and be at his best. He knows what Murray is capable of and respects his game.
For me, the sunny weather and warmer conditions will give a significant boost to rafa ! Rafa can dispatch andy in 3 sets as well. I really really hope its sunny on sunday. Rain is predicted to take place around 9-11 am on sunday and then its clear. I hope there are no wet,slow conditions on sunday.
I take it then that Murray will just have to play his normal level but Rafa will have to raise his game to beat Murray? 🙄
^^Why do you say that?
Because some people are talking Rafa down, What does Rafa have to do to get respect?
Look at comments of Gulbis coach. Hes a nutcase. How can he talk down his own pupil?
Djokovic the favourite
“Ernests hasn’t a hope against Novak. Djokovic is the favourite here, he’s tried several times before and this time he’ll be the one to lift the trophy at Roland Garros, I’m sure of it. I guarantee you.”
What are Gulbis’ chances?
“He’d need a miracle. Without a miracle there’s no chance. Ernests is playing at a high level. But he’s still 10-15% lower than Djokovic’s average. Novak plays consistently for hours, so 3 or 4 games per set would be incredible for Ernests. I’m already very happy with how the tournament’s gone. Even if Novak has an off-day, the gap is too great, he has more experience. And Djokovic really wants the title.”
^^No worse than when Uncle T plays down Rafa’s chances imo. Okay, Uncle T never gave anyone a guarantee that Rafa would win or lose…………..
We gonna see, no?
I don’t think Uncle T was this bad and vocal. He usually is critical of Rafa but usually post matches. He would never say Rafa will surely lose before a match
You’re right, Uncle T is never this bad. Well, the man must have faith in his guarantee, no? Good luck to him.
Vamos Rafa!
Steady on, @hawkeye, hold off on the cartwheels for the time being but Genie’e a break up…..
Too early yet. Shriekapova lost the first set in her last two matches.
I’m sure she will pump up the volume to intimidate Genie.
However, I hope Genie kicks her to the curb.
I am also firmly in the Genie camp, but I fear Shriekie’s experience will see her across the line…………
Bless………..Genie snags the 1st set after fighting off break off while serving for the set.
#TrueGrit
First set Genie.
Now the real match begins.
RT @jon_wertheim: “Crowd behind French-speaking Bouchard. Recalls this line: http://www.goodreads.com/quotes/703-i-get-to-go-to-overseas-places-like-canada …”
Well, well, today I am at one with the French crowd…
Allez Genie!
https://twitter.com/BenRothenberg/status/474552588390891520
#NID
#HindranceOversight
Genie having none of it, breaks back, back on serve…
Allez Genie!
c’mon Genie, hold!
Shriekie the street-fighter is now on court………..breaks again to lead 3-1
Listen Genie, kid-gloves don’t work on Shriekie, You need to give her a buffalo-kick up her you-know-where for her to stay down!! She is Rafa sans cojones………..
Allez!
A break now to get back on serve would not be a bad idea, Genie…………….
Rafa doesn’t scream C’MON at his opponent when they hit an error into the net or use gamesmanship to intimidate.
Wish SW was still there to beat her (if Genie doesn’t).
^^No, but you gotta admit: like Rafa, she fights……….
Genie breaks Shazza serving for the set…back on serve
#Grit
Genie hands Sharpie the set on her serve. Onto the decider: adv Sharpie……….
RT @bgtennisnation: “Once again Shazza has won 18 straight 3set matches on clay, the screaming seems to lift her game”
https://twitter.com/bgtennisnation/status/474562553155436544
… because she’s not 23-10 vs Federer obviously.
^^Well spotted, @hawkeye63! 😉
There will be Spaniards in an RG final: Marc Lopez and Granollers are through to the Men’s Doubles Final.
Now Rafa has to show up as well to keep his friends company.
Vamos!!
let’s hope Garbi and Carla also make the doubles final.
https://twitter.com/BenRothenberg/status/474570253301985280
Poor sportsmanship.
RT @christophclarey : “First real sign of dejection I’ve seen from Bouchard in this match. Misses fh with court open. Sharapova up 4-1 #primalscreamtherapy”
Yup, where’s SW when you need her??
Genie wants outta there………….
I can never watch Sharapova without seeing the seemingly frail 17 year old staring down the intimidating Serena at Wimby all those years ago.
I’m not playing Rafa down, I just think that the match against Murray will be hard fought, I’d say 50-50 from what I’ve seen so far, unless Rafa is really leaving the best for (second)last
Well fought Genie, come back stronger next year!
Allez!!
At least I can take my virtual earplugs out for the second semi.
#VamosPetko
well, well, well…good to see Rafa fans cheer for different ladies today… 🙂
Way to go, Maria! I am simply amazed with her never give up attitude…she was not playing well, though…the kid played better most of the time, but Sharpie is there when it counts and she nails at key points…I predicted Maria/Simona finals…let’s see…Simona is playing great the whole tourney…
^^OH, ho ho, you’re a Shazza fan ain’t you? As you will have read, I am not, but I admire her fight, reminds me of a certain gentleman from Mallorca!
Quote of the Day
“You start to understand: OK, first make one step. Don’t miss five days of practice. Just miss three days of practice, and then two days, and then one, and then nothing. So it’s a process.”—Ernests Gulbis, on his highly idiosyncratic evolution as a tennis player.
At least his good quotes far outnumber his dumb ones (when not one and the same)!
#Classic
hilarious.. 😀
Shireling,
I do not think you are talking Rafa down. If that’s your opinion, then it’s okay to be honest. I think it’s going to be a tough match. I guess that now I am guilty to talking Rafa down by saying that I think it’s going four sets. It’s always on Rafa’s racket, so it depends on his game and if he comes out aggressive and blasting. Being realistic and giving Rafa’s opponents their due, is just keeping it real. Murray is no pushover. He’s not going to give up the way Ferrer did after losing the second set.
Some don’t seem to understand the difference between talking Rafa down and giving a balanced, fair appraisal of his opponent.
Vamos Halep!!
Although I do like Petko too, I just like Halep more!
re: Bresnik’s comments. He is saying that to fire up Gulbis. Simple psychology.
Bet you cant climb that tree. I’ll bloody well show you I can…………………………..
When Sharapova was a man…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GEStsLJZhzo&feature=kp
😉
Sharapova in a former life…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JDmRmRb2OpE
Why do I get the sense you’re……how to say, a little disgruntled by Shriekie’s win, @hawkeye63? First you compare her to a man, then to a barn owl…….man, let it go! Genie is only climbing one way…………up.
Not about Genie ritb. She will get there. Great tournament for her.
I don’t even blame Shazza for it. She’s allowed apparently. I’ve complained about it looooong before Genie came on the scene.
I blame the ITF/WTA for allowing it to continue.
To be fair, I was only comparing her to an alien body snatcher. A man cannot make that sound.
hey, Anonymous, leave Sharpie alone, will ya.. 🙂 how about Sciavone or Errani? You don’t find them annoying? some double standards here…
and BTW I love owls…this one is such a cutie… 😉
No I don’t find them as bad TBH. They are less “selective” for one thing. 🙂
Sciavone grunts more like a guy. A woman should…. oh wait.
Top annoying screamers go to:
1. Shazza
2. de Brito
3. Serena
4. Berlocq
5. Azarenka
6. Granollers
For this there can be no debate!!! 🙂
#GettinEarnieWithIt
I mean seriously though.
#NoContest
#DecibelGOAT
http://rt.com/sport/tennis/tennis-screams-court-sharapova-861/
What, no love for Shazza?
RT @Spellman_Katie: “Halep goes about her business with such serenity. In great contrast to the SF that just finished #rg14”
With Serena out, she’s like Fed when Rafa’s not there.
A very LOUD Fed, that is.
#WhenTheMiceAreAway
#Gamesmanship
I think Djoker has paid Gulbis off. GSM -: Djokovic
#NID
Why do you say that @nadline10, has Gulbis forfeited the semi?
#Afraid 🙂
ed251137@June 5, 2014 at 4:17 pm
He is a man enough to wear pink
https://twitter.com/augustazeight/status/474588962250829824/photo/1
^^Good girl, Xisca! Empty his pockets!!
#Dior
Considering how much he makes, it would take a bus load of Xiscas to empty the pocket
My comment was in reference to Rafa’s ’09 kit for RG. Not that I thought pink doesn’t suit him. Personally I like men who wear pink well.
is Xisca wearing a wedding ring? 😉
I meant to say an engagement ring…
natashao2013 (at 4:42 pm & 4:43 pm)
I think, she is wearing this ring for decorative purpose.
When watching the match Rafa vs Ferru, she didn’t wear a ring:
https://twitter.com/augustazeight/status/474608851799801856/photo/1
Don’t think that is coming for sometime. Rafa is very clear, he ain’t settling down till his career is over. Don’t think that bothers her……..
#SensibleGirl
Petko fights back……….
no way, Simona looks so cool, so composed, ready to regroup…like she has just stopped by to have a cup of coffee and will move on to the finals…amazing…
Simona!!
Vamos!!
Simona says, “I try my best”
No wonder she’s winning……
How irritating is Neil Herman. He is tagging Andy Murray on the Rober Soderling victory pic against Rafa
Neil Harman @NeilHarmanTimes · 4m
Remember this chap? I wonder if @andy_murray may be striking a similar pose tomorrow @RSoderling pic.twitter.com/PWs5QO9kb9
^^snap! I just posted the same tweet on another thread…
Why not wait for it to happen to show in public how clever you are? Doing it beforehand, on the other hand,..
@augusta (5.52 pm),
Thanks! I kind of knew that but was just teasing people around here to get them thinking about it…BTW, this is lovely picture of Xisca…
@augusta08 says:
June 5, 2014 at 2:32 pm
It doesn’t matter how much evidence there is, if people want to believe that the French hate Rafa that’s what they’ll believe even if they can’t back it up.
nadline10 (at 7:05 am),
I think, people who believe that the French hate Rafa believe too much the Federazzi.