U.S. Open final preview and prediction: Nadal vs. Medvedev

September 8, 2019 Ricky Match previews 327

It may not be an all-Big 3 U.S. Open final, but the hard-court summer is ending in what feels like appropriate fashion on Sunday afternoon in New York.

Rafael Nadal and Daniil Medvedev, who are a combined 29-2 during the U.S. Open Series (including 28-1 against opponents other than each other), are set to battle for the last major title of 2019. Nadal triumphed in Montreal, beating Medvedev in the final, while the Russian advanced to consecutive finals in Washington, D.C., Montreal, and Cincinnati–capturing the title at the latter.

Medvedev’s absolutely unbelievable summer has now reached a high point in the form of his fourth straight title match, this one obviously by far the biggest one of all. Despite running low on energy, with tape all over his body, and at one point cramping significantly, the 23-year-old has battled his way past Prajnesh Gunneswaran, Hugo Dellien, Feliciano Lopez, Dominik Koepfer, Stan Wawrinka, and Grigor Dimitrov.

“This summer’s been, I should say, so fast and long at the same time,” Medvedev explained. “Long because I’ve played so many matches. At the same time so fast because I didn’t have any moment to just sit down and look back and say, ‘Okay, I’ve done amazing things.'”

Nadal has been doing amazing things not only this summer but also for the last 15 years, to the extent that he is one win away from lifting slam trophy No. 19 and pulling to within one of Roger Federer on the all-time list. The second-ranked Spaniard’s major results in 2019 currently read: runner-up (Australian Open), champion (French Open), semifinals (Wimbledon), and final (U.S. Open). Capitalizing on a friendly draw while also playing ruthless tennis, Nadal punched his ticket to Sunday’s championship round with defeats of John Millman, Hyeon Chung, Marin Cilic, Diego Schwartzman, and Matteo Berrettini.

“At times [this has] been a positive tournament for me all my career, this one,” the three-time U.S. Open champion reflected. “I said every single day, but I can repeat: I feel comfortable here, I like the atmosphere, I like the crowd. I feel a big energy when I am playing in this Arthur Ashe Stadium.”

“Talking about Rafa, it’s tough to find words,” Medvedev praised. “So many players and so many people found them before me. He’s one of the greatest champions in the history of our sport. He’s just a machine; a beast on the court. The energy he’s showing is just amazing.”

The same can be said of Medvedev for his exploits this summer, but this fortnight especially must be taking an incredible physical and mental toll. Just about the entire way, the fans been against the soon-to-be world No. 4–and they will likely have plenty to cheer about on Sunday. Nadal will have everything left in his tank following the loss of just one set to Cilic and his heavy forehands will consistently pepper the Medvedev forehand.

Expect something along the lines of the Nadal-Schwartzman quarterfinal, with a whole host of entertaining rallies much of the way before the favorite pulls away convincingly in the end.

Pick: Nadal in 3

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327 Comments on U.S. Open final preview and prediction: Nadal vs. Medvedev

  4. Okay, so let me make one thing totally clear:

    Medvedev CANNOT be much damage playing so deep in the court. He will need to change his return positioning and not fall into grinding rallies all the time. I am not sure how much capable he is when it comes to stepping in,taking balls on the rise for 3-4 hours and changing directions of his shots. Can he finish off those cross court exchanges with a big DTL backhand? I don’t know because I am yet to see the guy hitting dead straight backhands DTL on such heavy balls. He cannot afford DTL backhands drifting towards the centre as Rafa’s court coverage ia too explosive at the moment.

    It’s good that Rafa has played him. He knows what to expect and has the clear mental edge. I am sure Medvedev will use all his craft including the drop shots, mercurial secons serves, varied groundstrokes in terms of pace but Rafa will vw ready.

    If Rafa can keep a high first serve % in that 65-70 range, he can win this in 3 sets. However, we Medvedev is playing soo well so he can take a set.

    I just think Rafa will have him run from side to side too often and Med will struggle to dictate play as much as one needs to when playing Rafa.

    The Russian ia serving BIG so Rafa better not waste any break opportunities he gets!

    Unless Med can adapt hia style of play or Rafa somehow has a bad day, I don’t see Rafa losing this. The use of slice from Rafa will also be interesting.

    Rafa poised for slam #19 and the 5th hard court slam of his career.

    Reply

    • And I would add that Medvedev, who will most prob adopt his customary deep return position, will have the benefit of putting back a lot of first serve returns in play. I just think the patterns that will ensue will not be in his favor overall. The only player who has caused real damage to Rafa with a deep return position on HC is Delpo but nobody has his power. Thiem tried to do it but was forced to step in with the return and that is when he caused trouble.

      Reply

      • vr,

        As always, thanks for your analysis of the final. I am wondering if Medvedev will serve two first serves like he did in previous matches. Maybe to try to throw off Rafa. It’s weird how he can have so many UE’s like he did in the semifinal with Dimi and still win the set. Now of course, Rafa is NOT Dimi! Dimi did well to beat Fed and salvage what has been a dreadful year.

        Medvedev seems to try and throw off his opponents with his tactics. I do ageee that Rafa needs to serve well in this match. I also agree that Rafa must take advantage of break chances.

        I know that Rafa has a great tennis brain. He knows how to adjust strategy mid match and how to impose his game on his opponent.

        I would like to see Rafa come out aggressive and not give Medvedev any breathing room.

        I appreciate your no-nonsense approach to Medvedev. I do not think he is the second coming or anything. He said something in his post match interview after the semifinal to the effect that he will have something for Rafa or be ready or whatever. Well I expect Rafa to be ready!

        Reply

      • I doubt Medvedev’s ROS is that good. It’s not easy to return Rafa’s serve, players like Chung and Berrettini didn’t even get a single BP chance! Medvedev doesn’t look like one who’s good at breaking serves. Rafa seems to sacrifice a high % of first serve in to get more pace on his serve and so a high % of first serves points won.

        Rafa’s deep court position behind the baseline will encourage Medvedev to either serve out wide or go DTT and Rafa will have a hard time returning. He’ll probably throw in more drop shots to make Rafa run for it.

        Medvedev seems able to deal with slices, and Dimi’s slices weren’t effective against him. I think Rafa’s FH DTL and his good serve will be important in this matchup. I feel there’s nothing Medvedev can do that Rafa cant do better; except maybe Medvedev’s brave second serve that’s something even Rafa couldn’t replicate, but those second serves may end up becoming DFs, over a BO5 match.

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  6. Sorry Rafans, Medvedev might win this title so please don’t get your hopes too high.

    I said Might 😂, so it’s possible Rafa would win it but…🤔🤔🤔 well we will see.

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  8. There’s a flood of money coming for Medvedev, in from 6 to 5.20. Rafa is a 1.20 chance which is unusual against a non-top 3 player.

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    • Medvedev is of course not without a chance. But his chances certainly don’t become better or worse just because a few more people a willing to risk money and bet on the eventual winner of a tennis match😏 That does neither hurt Rafa nor does it help Medvedev.

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  10. God so nervous..Rafa..please don’t notch this up..god knows why I am so nervous .nothing new in me being nervous but somehow feel is Bianca n Medvedev going to both take out established giant champions..I know Serena is in a weaker place than Rafa is now with regards to fitness but Medvedev is just like Bianca in terms of attitude..both don’t fear big names..Bianca infact said post her qf she will win this..

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  11. Serena is way past her peak and reached the final so easy by intimidating her opponents, immensely helped by the crowd. Bianca was not that intimidated and Serena was under much more pressure. The often obscene support for the American backfired and she crumbled under all those expectations. A very deserved and satisfying win for Bianca.

    Now, Nadal is an entirely different beast and he reached the final just using his brain and his racquet, not buoyed by the crowd. He just beat Medvedev fair and square on a very similar surface. He must be the favourite.

    Rafa is a very deceiving returner (and server actually). He doesn’t necessarily produce ROS winners and opponents don’t feel that he kills them on their second serve, although that’s basically what happens. He produces a very good service delivery or return which sets up a winner in the next few shots. It must make the opponent feel that the point is still winnable on their second serve, so why risking a second first serve? Besides, Djokovic always comes forward on second serves. Rafa may or may not do it as he only steps in when the server tosses the ball, at which point the serve is already set up. So that tactic would definitely NOT work with him.

    Surely, at the age of 33 and given his woes on hardcourt, he can have a slightly off day or some last minute injury. Hopefully, that day is not today!

    I said it before: in his SF match he must have been undercooked after that stomach bug and dehydration. Expect none of that today.

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  12. Well sanju, we are all nervous of course… I can hardly breathe since I expect Medvedev whose game is so much like Novak’s to give Rafa a tough time..It all comes to which Rafa will show up: if he serves well he will be brave enough to come to the net and display some S&V stuff which he does so well…

    I don’t by these stories of Medvedev being tired or hurting! He runs like hell and his fitness is amazing the same as Novak’s. I expect a tough match ahead…

    Vamos Rafa!

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  13. Game wise, haven’t heard a single good reason why Medvedev will win this! Understand people are nervous but that won’t affect the outcome of the match. Nadal’s semi was his cleanest performance thus far and he was damn good and sets 2 and 3.

    Rafa will come out like a conqueror and get this done. I am not saying Med doesn’t have a chance but I just believe that game wise, ober Bo5, Rafa is too strong. Rafa will move him from side to side using the angles and the spins and no matter how fit the Russian is, he’ll cave in unless he can somehow show (which he hasn’t to date) the ability to change directions like Novak does.

    Regarding the slice, Rafa also uses his DTL slice to draw balls to his forehand to attack. Med was smartly responding to Dimi’s slices cross court and he knew the latter couldn’t finish pts with his backhands well.

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    • Thanks for reassuring me that my nervousness will NOT affect the outcome of the final!

      Rafa was really nailing his forehand in his semi!

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  14. Natashao n vamosrafa..hope Rafa indeed comes out like a conquerer n wraps this in max 4 sets..I don’t surely expect a straight set affair..

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  15. I think this will be close. Medvedev increased his aggression to beat Novak. He can do that again against Rafa. Plus, the most important thing is Nedevdev plays the big points very well. Rafa in straight is not a foregone conclusion unless Medvedev’s health is an issue.

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  17. I would definitely not out my money on Medvedev in this one. I also think it’s prematurely to day Rafa’s got this, 19 etc. Let’s have some respect for Med.
    Rafa can lose this if he repeats Serena’s performance ( playing poor) and Med is on fire. But that’s not characteristic to him, especially in a final.
    By the way, the change of guards is taking place right now in the world of tennis. It happens subtly and unnoticeable. Enjoy while big 3 still win slams.

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  18. I’M only nervous because I can’t shake off the memory of AO final 2014, when Rafa hurt himself before the match and totally unexpected lost to Wawa. That shows anything is possible. But it’s wrong to compare Rafa with Serena. Although she’s obviously still very good considering her age, Serena is clearly over the hill and profits from weak or intimidated opponents – until she meets a strong opponent in the final. This opponent wouldn’t be in the final if she wasn’t strong. And then Serena suddenly faces a worthy opponent. Rafa’s case is totally different.
    However, I would be Laing If I said that I’m not nervous. On paper there’s nothing which indicates that Rafa is in danger of losing this final. But the changing of the guard has to take place eventually. As a Rafafan I truly hope that it won’t happen today! But if it does happen, I will congratulate Daniil vor making the impossible possible.

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    • littlefoot,

      The 2014 AO is the reason why I am even more cautious when Rafa is in a slam final. That showed us that anything can happen.,

      I dislike the comparisons to Serena. She is past her prime now, Her best days are over. Her biggest weapon is her serve and it was dreadful in the final. She was below 50% and you simply do not win championships that way. She also kept double faulting, something she doesn’t do when she is on her game, Bianca played better. She came out aggressive and took it to Serena. Even the crowd which was really over the top in cheering for Serena, could not help her. I am not sure she is hoing to get # 24.

      I do not think it is the changing of the guard yet, it is Novak and Fed not getting through because that Wimbledon final took a toll. I don’t think people should expect that they will just go away.

      I said that I think this match will be more competitive than the Montreal final. But I expect Rafa to come out ready. I don’t think there is a new era because we still see Thiem, Zverev and Tsitsipas crashing out early. Thiem has only been able to go deep at RG. But Rafa is standing in the way. They all crashed out early at Wimbledon.

      I dislike putting Medvedev in the same category as Novak. Novak wasn’t even Novak until 2011. When Novak is he’s healthy and at his best, there is no comparison between him and Medvedev. His performance in the Wimbledon final is a perfect example of how formidable he can be even when nit at his best.

      I tend to go along with vr’s take on today’s final. Rafa’s ferocious will to win is something that cannot be quantified or measured in stats. That could well be what propels him to # 19.

      All I can do as his fan is wish him the best of luck.

      Vamos Rafa!

      Reply

    • sanju, I like your attitude now. That’s the way to look ahead, hopeful and positive. Good luck. I hope to watch a great tennis match.

      Reply

    • Sanju, I will only send the best possible vibes😉😉😉
      Since I will travel I can’t follow the match. But I will think of all of you!
      Cheers!

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  22. Eugene, I hope it will be a good match, and I wish you a lot of fun. Since your favorite player isn’t involved, you can be totally relaxed😋

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  23. I’m quite torn on this. On one hand, I want there to be a new slam champion. On my left hand (Naturally), I would love to see Nadal get closer to that magical maestro’s record. I think either way I’ll be happy, but with Father Time being less of an issue to Medvedev, I think I want Nadal’s victory a little more.

    With that decided, vamos Rafa🎾

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  27. This first set feels the calm before the storm. Rafa please hold….yessss. 6-5 Rafa.

    Uma Thurman and her son are Rafa fans 🙂

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  30. Yes!! Set 1 in the bag!!!! But Rafa’s playing a bit too tentative, hoe he can open up in second set. Glad at least he’s starting to serve first!!

    And he needs to take advantage of these bps!!!

    VAMOS, Rafa!!

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  32. Yes first set in the bag!

    Rafa is the better player in this set, except that his first serve % is Low. Both are nervous esp at the beginning but once the the end of the set, Rafa raises his level.

    Come on Rafa, do it in straight sets! Vamos!

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  34. Rafa’s serve percentage is too low. But Rafa knows when to strike. Not at his best, but good enough. I hope that Rafa can play more freely now. Loosen up a bit.

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  37. Not the prettiest of sets early on but it picked up in the later stagse. Ideal outcome for Rafa! His first serve % was very low early on and he was shaky. He really picked it up in the last few games and was blasting winners with his forehand.

    THE BACKHAND SLICE! I called it! Rafa’s using it very smartly, esp the backhand slice DTL. Medvedev trying to mix up but his patterns are just not going to break down Rafa’s game enough.

    I have Rafa winning in 3 sets as long as he can hold his serve in the first couple of service games here.

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    • NNY, obviously I’m not vr, but I believe the reason the slice gives an advantage because if the ball is kept low, Medvedev’s flatter hitting is more suspect, meaning he will either send a high looping shot that Nadal can just pick away at easily, or an error will be made, which will come up as unforced, even if really it is forcing it in some way. Hope this helps!

      Reply

  43. See Rafa is doing well on Med’s returns!!! In previous rounds returned serves were 49%, today is 11%!

    Rafa is really rubbish with these bps!!! Medvedev is begging Rafa to break him but Rafa will not comply!! Choops!!!

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  44. Yep, I see – that was opportunities missed.
    But Medvedev doesn’t appear able to execute well atm. He’s missing all over the place.

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  45. Rafa should have had that break it was a gimme. Medvedev is not playing that well and Rafa needs to take advantage of it. The ESPN commits are saying that something may be off with Rafa. Like fatigue. Rafa was talking to his box. I just hoped that he would get more aggressive and take control of this set. Again break chances not converted.

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  49. Neither are up to speed but this is the finish line… somebody has to fall over it!! Vamos Vamos Rafa!

    Expect Medvedev to start going for it , taking more chances, if he possibly can. But doubt his success right now.

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  54. Watching live it seems Med’s only shot is the serve which can bail him out. Once the rally starts he seems to come out on top more often than not. What is wrong with Rafa?

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  64. Oh for heavens sake! Rafa is broken. He really is dragging this out. Medvedev has nothing to lose down two sets. So he is going for broke. Rafa missed an easy shot that would have given him game point. Doing it the hard way.

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  70. This is why I never take anything for granted. Rafa did not break at 0-40. Then he broke and gave it back. He lives dangerously and this time it has cost him.

    It is very upsetting to see him let this get away from him.

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  73. Rafa looking the more tired of the two! Playing long points to win ends up tiring himself instead of Medvedev!

    Rafa serving poorly to lose serve twice in the set; should have hang on after breaking Medvedev! He’s throwing Medvedev a lifeline, big troubles ahead of Rafa unless he improves his first serve %!

    Rafa has to up his aggression!

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    • Yes he’s a sly one. It seems almost planned from the Mad Russian. Suddenly he’s got the momentum. He appeared more tired than Rafa – now Daniil is energized like he paced himself and kept this in reserve. Maybe he visualized that he’d win in an epic five setter for his first GS. Nothing less. Or maybe it just took him three sets to warm up. He’s moving too well right now.

      Come on Rafa break him and win this set now! Don’t let this go the distance.

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  75. Wow. Did not see that coming. Medvedev is an absolute beast, mentally. I don’t know how much he left in the tank, but all credit to him for not giving up down two sets and a break. We’ve got a match!

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  79. Apologies, I wasn’t the most clear on the reference 😅 I was referring to Fognini’s miraculous comeback in 2015. Though I guess I am kinda fond of Berrettini. Seems like a good guy, but I didn’t want him to beat Nadal; practically had no nails by the end of that tiebreaker the other day!

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    • You know, the day I ever come on a forum just to cheer for someone to lose just out of sheer spite, that is the day I stop watching tennis.

      I truly feel sorry for anyone so petty that this is all they can do in life, so sad.

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  82. Med takes 4th set and again he will be Serving first. Match is Slipping away from Rafa. what are your thoughts. Loosing one break is proving costly for Rafa

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  84. My Gosh, Rafa is terrible! Should have wrapped up the match in three sets, now it’s two sets all!

    Credit to Medvedev though, he’s better in set four. No.19, is it still within Rafa’s grasp?

    Rafa’s first serve % is truly horrible the whole match! He has to get more of his first serve in for the fifth set, and Rafa is serving second again in the fifth set!

    Come on Rafa! Don’t let this slip away!

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  88. Rafa is letting a winnable match slipping away, I’m afraid. Very worrying now, Medvedev will certainly serve like crazy in the fifth set!

    Come on Rafa, hold serve! Get your first serve in please!!!

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    • This is Rafas only chance. Breakpoint down and holds. If he uses it and breaks early..he has a chance or let’s forget it. Woke up 3.15 am to see one set and then two sets in the bag and didn’t sleep since. Being a Rafa fan is the worst

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  92. And that’s why we can’t take things for granted when it comes to Rafa, because he’s fond of throwing service games away when he’s leading. Medvedev is no Schwartzman, Rafa I hope he doesn’t pay a heavy price for it.

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  100. Once again Nadal has played the biggest points better than his opponent. Medvedev had two chances to break for 2-0 in the 5th, but Rafa was too good. Then Nadal didn’t give up down 0-40 with Med serving at 2-2. Now he’s in the driver’s seat. Two more holds of serve and he has the title.

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  105. I know I’m in a distinct minority here, but this is very anti-climatic now. If only Wimby final had been so anti-climatic for Fed fans…

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  107. Rafa breaks again for a 5-2 lead, come on Rafa please win this when you serve for the match!

    It’s really a torturing experience watching Rafa live matches; he just makes hard work of everything. Had he held serve after the first break of Medvedev’s serve, he could may be still fight to win in three even though late in the third set, he was being broken.

    As it is, he had to work so hard to put away Medvedev. As mentioned earlier, Medvedev is one formidable opponent, he’s so hard to beat, having improved so much and has so much self belief right now.

    Vamos Rafa, just do it!

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  111. Okay it is now or never. Dang it. Vamos Rafa!

    Well, I guess it could go to a tb or worse but NO.

    Either way – this is not what I thought would happen.

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    • Joe Smith thanks!

      I also want to say thank you too Elizabeth for staying the course with us as we all know you are a Novak fan! Thanks for the shoulder which we needed, lol!! Hope Novak gets healthy and is back ready to compete again soon!

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  114. Rafa, very scary match! What are you trying to do? Want us to suffer heart Attack?

    Anyway, congrats that you finally win this! Medvedev gives a good account of himself, well done! Medvedev will be challenging for slams from now on!

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  117. That was painful but he did it!

    #19 for Rafa. Congratulations, Rafa!! And Rafa fans!! And me, in fact. I never thought I’d be cheering so hard for Rafa to win a US Open! I’m a Nole fan.

    LOL..he made it. That was so hard. And seriously I have so much respect for the Mad Russian….even if I suspect he’s a sly one.

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  118. What a match! Vamos Rafa now on 19! All credit to Medvedev for never giving in and giving Nadal (as well of all his fans) such a hard time. I sincerely hope to see him in grand slam finals again, on the other side of a tight match, but I am so glad it wasn’t this time! What a champion you are, Rafa, absolutely a beast!

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  123. Medvedev is an extrovert. He wears it all on his sleeve. I wish him all the best because he is great to watch. Every player brings the best against Rafa and apart from my frayed nerves it was a good match. I’ll enjoy watching the replay without being in panic mode.

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    • Nadline, I couldn’t have put it better, except that i did not tape it, so I cant rewatch it, lol!

      That 19 GS means a lot to Rafa!! Rafa is the only man to win 5 GSs after turning 30!! He has worked hard in his career, he is a true champ but he has aged me 50 yrs tonite!! But I will always love him!! ALWAYS!

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  124. Medvedev is such a witty guy, such a witty speech, he’s winning back the hearts of the NY crowd. I love what he said, if he wins what are they going to show, having seen what they showed about Rafa winning all his slams after this win.

    I laughed, yeah right, this is his first slam final, should he win, they really would have nothing like Rafa’s to show. Medvedev is such a funny guy! I like him for being such a funny witty guy, ha ha!!

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    • what would they show if I win. Thats classy. To come up with something like that after a dissapointing loss shows a clear ability to clear your head and move on looking forward. All signs for a perfect future champion. He is the One!

      And he was so honest with the crowd with multiple apologies and owning up to his mistakes as a human being. (Not to compare but had Nole done that the first time he would have been loved even more. Sorry Elizabeth. I feel Nole rubbed it in everyone someone was against him and thats perhaps why he continues to struggle to receive love)

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    • He won’t unless those knees are gone. Rafa keeps his commitments if it’s physically possible. But maybe Roger will take it easy on him.

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  128. Oh boy!!! Rafa, Rafa, Rafa!!! VAMOS!!

    Indeed, a man on a mission!!! I am so so happy for Rafa!!! He was so emotional! Was really cute!!

    Anyway, cheers to Medvedev!!! He gave a great account of himself!!! This was the hardest fought trophy for Rafa!! Next year Medvedev will be even more formidable!!! And to me this signals the changing of the guard as it is only going to get harder for the big 3 to win GSs!!! Interesting times ahead!!!

    Great wedding present for Rafa!! Indeed!!!

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  129. One of the GREATEST rafa slam wins ever! WHAT A MATCH THIS WAS! The quality was just out of this world in the last three sets!

    Med showed us he CAN produce the brand of tennis that can cause severe damage to Rafa!he was on his natural game in sets 1 and 2 and that was never gona cut it. He then stepped up and produced a novak-like brand of tennis while returning more like Delpo.

    19th slam for Rafa! What an achievement this was! Wow wow wow!

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    • I was too emotional to post earlier! Rafa cried and I cried along with him.

      I was in shock when he finally won! I am beyond exhausted after this! Loved seeing my idol Rod Laver give Rafa the trophy! Perfect!

      Shout out to Elizabeth! Thanks so much for your comments, generosity and kindness. Novak will be back and you will get to cheer for him again.

      I want to see the top three again at the 2020 AO. Long may they reign!

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  131. I actually like Medvedev, he’s not afraid to show what he is, how he feels. He’ll learn from this experience, this victory ceremony. Next time, he’ll know what to do and what to expect should he win the trophy here. I wish him all the best. I think he wins the hearts of lots of tennis fans all over the world.

    As for Rafa, what else to say? He’s phenomenadal (as per Robbie Koenig). I know he’s nervous, and his first serve needs improvement, but despite that, he’s still winning the USO, amazing. He’s the better player for two and a half sets, and then the last set of the final, but Medvedev was such a fighter, never gave up and took his chances.

    What a final, after two straight years of straight sets victories. I mentioned before, that Medvedev plays like a Djoko and Murray combined, a hybrid of them. He’s able to play a chess game like Murray, against Rafa; and he’s able to stay back at the baseline and engages in rallies like Djoko.

    Rafa was really being put to the test, and a slip up from Rafa, Medvedev would take advantage. Medvedev has a bright future ahead of him, I wish him all the best for his future.

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  132. Amazing match! Both players displayed some exceptional tennis! I did expect a tough match!

    Great S&V from Rafa! Exactly what Ive asked for! 😀 He is finally starting to deploy more of it! I am so proud of him still improving at his age! Rafa is true magician!

    Vamos Champ!!! 💪💪💪

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  133. Daniil had the sweetest smile right at the net and the entire ceremony, a witty sense of humour and a honest connection to the crowd and seems very humble. I wonder a win may have had a rare few dislike him but this loss and his approach would make him a clear fan favourite and a crowd favourite. I like him but sure dont want another experience of having near heartattacks and sleepless nights over being a fan of someone 🙂

    Thank God Nadal got lucky in the end. his first serve %s so poor entire tourney.

    I sure

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  134. Congrats All. That was nerve wracking, I thought Rafa would blow it like Fed. Glad some big serves helped him. Rafa looked spent in the 5th. Just about did it. Thank God.

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  135. I would like to send a message to our Good friend Amy. I hope she is alright and gets to see this msg and hopefully she is celebrating Nadals win amidst whatever she is going through. Take care Amy

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  136. Excuse me, but that was NOT luck! Give Rafa credit for being able to come back after losing two sets.

    Rafa earned it! He won it!

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    • Exactly!! Rafa took advantage of his opportunities when he got them, then if that’s luck, then fine with me!

      Y is it that Rafa is always at the cetre part of a great match! lol!

      Reply

    • NNY. I have always felt one needs to have that bit of luck to scrape big wins. Even Rafa said it multiple times. Had he lost, this time I wouldnt have said he got unlucky. No matter the result, there is no excuse for Nadal to give up a break in the 3rd. He should have finished in 3. but yes he continues to be the fighter he is and has earned every one of his victories. He just makes it harder for himself for no reason. All the talk about an improved serve ( I dont have a rolling eyes icon here :)) )

      Reply

  139. Pk he was not lucky please. How can you even say something like that for a match won after 5 hours He saved 3 bps start of fifth to avoid going down 2 0 with monster winners n hit amazing winners to go up 5 2. He was gritty not lucky. He played a bad game serving at 5 2 but serving for a championship is not easy.

    Reply

    • Nothing’s easy in the 5th set of a hard fought championship! I started watching at 5-2 in the 5th, figuring Rafa would surely serve it out. Well, yes, he did, eventually, praise be. A few heart attacks later. That last service game he missed FOUR first serves in a row! Hung in with his 2nd serve and eventually *served and volleyed* (Rafa?? Who are you and what have you done with Rafa???) to win the match. Both guys must have been toast by then but they were still fighting.

      I don’t like to jump on bandwagons too fast, but I agree that Medvedev the Mad Russian does indeed look like the Real Deal.

      Reply

    • Agreed. Sanju you are spot on! People tend to forget all the great extraordinary shots and S&Vs Rafa performed in this match! And Rafa losing two sets also had something to do with great movement and rallies Medvedev sustained and wining, outstanding performance by Russian! And he throw everything at 35!year old and still lost! People are being funny when saying how could Rafa be tired more than Medvedev ?? Remember guys he is 12 years older than his opponent!

      Rafa was simply better player in the end! No luck just pure class!

      Vamos!

      Reply

  140. Luck and fortune favour the brave and the one who takes the opportunities. There is nothing called just luck. Rafa just missing the line in 2012 n 2017 ao fifth set to surrender break back was unlucky as it was wafree thin margin but djoko n fed were not lucky to win it. They earned it. Similarly Rafa earned it here fully.

    Reply

    • Ok fine I agree :).. I didnt think I said just luck and certainly meant no offense . I have long seen a number of players over the decades being unlucky. Lendl made 8 consecutive finals at the US wont just 4. Lost to Wilander having won more points than him in the match. He more than deserved to win atleast one wimbledon. and he is just an example. It was a time when besting a record was so damn difficult it just wont happen. Like for instance Fed couldnt go at a 6th consecutive wimbledon. anyway my point is Nadal as good as he is needs to get things together and do even better. Would certainly make my life easier and for a number of others.

      Reply

      • If you want an easier life give up tennis and take up some hobby other than sports fan. Maybe knitting or crochet. Or be the kind of sports fan that doesn’t really care who wins/loses. (Something my dad did. I could never comprehend it.)

        Reply

          • Ah No problem. I thought maybe I annoyed you. This has been a wonderful group of people. When internet is loaded with trolling and trash talk, this forum has been nice to share our thoughts and ideas and also share the suffering and exuberation with likeminded people. I woudnt want to say anything that would upset or annoy anyone here. Thanks for all the responses and feedback.

            And on that note, my apologies to Sanju, Ramara, Happy. I do think my statement on luck was a tad misunderstood. but anyway all is good. A big relief to have Rafa pull this one off.

  141. 20 is surely coming..Rafa will fight for it…year end no 1 I think is rafas. He is now in pole position …2000 points ahead in race than Novak. Unless Novak goes on a tear n wins everything from Japan to Shanghai n Paris n wtf n takes all 4000 points..Rafa is surely winning year end no 1

    Is Rafa just playing Shanghai n wtf..I think Rafa will fight for year end no 1..won’t give it up easily

    Reply

    • Hi Sanju, so everything worked out fine in the end. But kudos to Daniil for fighting so hard! We’ve said this before about other youngsters – but I’m perfectly sure that he is the real deal! In the end Rafa had to earn the trophy the hard was.
      Year-end No 1 would be nice for the stats – but come on! Rafa gets married soon☺💚 He got a good life outside of the tennis courts, and the indoor hardcourts aren’t his forte. I Just hope that Rafa will be healthy and fresh for 2020 – and of course No 20 somewhere in the near future. Who would’ve thought after the slam draught during 2015-2016 that Rafa would add five (!) more slams to his tally after his 30th birthday! And two of them on hardcourt!
      Btw: it becomes perfectly clear that Roger has been enointed as the GOAT a tad premature. The race isn’t over, yet. But some part of me truly wishes that Rafa, Novak and Roger will end up with the same slam count. The Big Three have been so outstanding, that they all deserve the GOAT title.

      Reply

      • No littlefoot…why should they end up with same slams. Let them earn it based on what they do.

        It Rafa ends year end no 1 ,all 3 have 5 year end no 1s n now that’s poetic justice. All 3 have dominated the scene in phases and it’s just that all 3 have the same ye no 1 ranking.

        Yes Rafa should marry now as Xisca has waited a long but I’m sure Rafa can play a bit to snatch the no 1.

        Reply

        • Sanju, ☺
          Atm, I’m in a very generous mood. Personally I would see some poetic justice, if the GOAT ends up in a three-way tie. But first things first: Rafa needs to get that 20th slam next year. He can totally get it done. But even at the French, it will not get easier. Rafa needs to stay on his toes in order to stay ahead of the competition. He will have to fight the upcoming youngsters and Novak, who most certainly hasn’t given up on his openly proclaimed plans to overtake Rafa and Roger.

          Reply

    • Agree.. i sent my share of booing in his direction. On such crucial points, last thing you need is an umpire playing a role in the outcome. He gave a time violation which resulted in a loss of first serve at 0-1 15-40 and again when facing bp at 5-2… losing one serve on such crucial points is terrible.. thankfully rafa won it

      Reply

  143. Congrats Rafa. You did it in the end! This match nearly sent me to the hospital. Nadal did not get lucky, the point is that he won and that’s all that matters. How he won I dont care, he won and history will record that he won. His serve may have been bad but he won regardless. Congrats rafa you deserve it.

    Reply

  144. The umpire was horrible to rob Rafa of first serve twice in fifth. The match intensity was too high. The crowd was unruly n loud. Umpires should not blindly follow the book. I think this umpire wanted his 2 minutes of fame.

    Reply

  145. Some of the volleys Rafa hit in fifth were awesome ..made up for the glaring errors end of fourth where he could not buy a serve nor put a ball in court within the lines

    Reply

    • Sanju, Rafa just has the uncanny ability to up his level when it matters most. He’s such a warrior; we sometimes doubt him (after some erratic puzzling play) but he’s just so determined, no wonder he’s now closing in on Fed’s slam record.

      Reply

  146. By the way this is third time i see Rafa triumph at the us open after 2013 and 2017😁😁😁 though last year delpo match was a bummer which i watched too…

    Vamos Rafa!! The joy (and the heartbreaks)that you give is unparalled to any other sporting icon😃😃

    Reply

  147. From Rod laver (in his twitter): Congratulations @RafaelNadal, a gutsy victory to claim your 19th Major, 4th @usopen crown and 2nd Slam title this year after the French. Stand tall friend, you are closing in, it was a privilege to present this trophy to you tonight.🚀🐐 pic.twitter.com/p6yIzYQ…

    Reading this from Rod laver to rafa brings tears to my eyes. This just made rafa’s incredible victory even sweeter. Thank you rod laver. I hope someone shows that tweet to rafa, it will surely bless his heart especially after this titanic final.

    Vamos Rafa!!!

    Reply

  148. Did you guys realised the referee got booed during the trophy ceremony for calling a time violation when Rafa was serving for match?!

    Reply

  149. Hi to all all tennis fans! As a Rafafan I’m over the moon! But tennis was the ultimate winner in this final. I’m in awe of both players, and I truly hope that Medvedev will have a long and fruitful career. No young gun has managed to push one of the Big Three in a final as Medvedev has done last night. Both players didn’t consider defeat to be a viable option, but unfortunately one had to lose in the end.
    Congrats to Rafa for not letting this golden opportunity for No.19 slip away. Equalling Roger’s record seems to be just a matter of time now. And now – please take a break and get married😊 Year end No 1 would be nice, but isn’t the most important thing in the world. There’s more than tennis to live!

    Reply

  150. I think it was the third last game. After a gruesome rally that Rafa won, he just bent his knees to the ground and stayed in that position for a good 40 secs. I just got so worried if he pulled a muscle there or some titch n if it will play on his mind thereon n cost him.

    Reply

  151. I’m sure roger is happy for Rafa but I am sure a part of him also feels that Rafa got just too close n this will make him repent the Wimbledon blowup even more. That title should have been his and he blew it.

    Reply

  152. Rafa looked so spent though at the end of the match. He was clearly very tired. I think the mental tension was too much .

    Imagine guys if 19 was such a thriller, what will emotions be for no 20. That will be one helluva ride.

    Reply

    • Sanju, Rafa was very nervous imo, he knew this was his biggest chance to bag no.19 when he didn’t need to face Fed or Djoko. I guess he felt the pressure too, he’s human.

      I was really worried in the fifth set when Rafa failed to serve out the match the first time and got his serve broken; was afraid Rafa might fall at the last hurdle, not unlike Fed at Wimbledon. I know Medvedev isn’t Djoko, but Fed clearly was the better player in that match esp in the fifth set but let it slipped.

      What a relief Rafa did serve it out the second time. I hope Rafa has the chance to go for no.20 at the AO next year; but that slam, after 2009, was and still is elusive for Rafa. The surface there favours Fed, and Djoko owns the AO be it fast or slow court there. It’ll be a tough ask for Rafa to win there, unless like this USO, both Fed and Djoko slip up again, highly unlikely though.

      Reply

    • Of course Rafa was tired, because he’s been running a lot. He’s 33, not 20 and he’s not helped by his low first serve %.

      Rafa is great in all areas of the court – behind the baseline, at the baseline, mid Court and forecourt/at the net. What he needs to improve, in addition to the serve, imo is his BHDTL shot.

      I feel his team should help him speed up his routine before each serve, he has been taking too long, almost 18 to 20 seconds adjusting his clothes etc and then he ends up having to rush through his first serve, thus he mishits so many of them when he serves with more pace.

      If only he can cut short all those adjusting and has a bit more time to prepare for his serve, I feel perhaps he may improve his first serve %.

      Reply

  153. Vamos Rafa!!!!
    Congratulations for yet another tile, the higher tally in history for a + 30 guy… not too bad.
    I gave up on watching at around 02:00 AM when he lost the 4th set and I’m glad I did, tbh, reading how the decider went…
    Don’t want to take away anything from Medvedev, who fought like a champ, but rafa showed a lot of nerves out there and should have wrapped it up more neatly, even in 3.
    It had to be another epic thriller, how many does Rafa have under his belt?
    Well done to both players but especially to Rafa for keeping it together in the 5th.

    Reply

  154. Rafa’s BH just works out so well in USO hard court, where there is more bounce. It works well on RG and here and I think he has been more aggressive on this shot as well. His unloading of backhand just puts his opponents in such a difficult position . Hope Rafa pulls out of Laver Cup and just rests his knees. These long matches can be gruelling to the body. I think he should just return to Paris Indoors and WTF

    Reply

  155. If rafa can keep himself healthy and sharp, he can win AO 20 imho. He has been really unlucky there but i have a feeling he can get it next year.

    Vamos

    Reply

    • He needs to land in more first serves imo without sacrificing the pace. He’s serving at quite a low % his first serve this USO though winning most of them. Imagine he winning most of them when he gets more of them in, his serve will be truly very difficult to break.

      Reply

  156. Personally I believe the whole GOAT assessment is one of the most absurd and silliest things to have emerged in the recent years. It was not even remotely conceived as an idea pre Federer. I do have an idea where it actually originated. I was at one time a huge Sampras fan and on his website there was this quote published from his wife Bridgette Wilson saying “The Greatest ever to pick up a tennis racquet”. It was merely a tribute from a wife to a husband saying how great he was. What I would think was much similar to the thousands of “Best Dads” “Best Mothers” and “Best friends”. Somehow it was picked up by the experts when someone like Federer came along unlike noone else in history shattering normalcy in terms of dominance……..

    Now as to the Big Three
    Federer’s greatness lied in the fact that he paved the way for others, Nadal his immediate successor and Novak after that to believe in becoming an all court player and dominate across slams while being consistent in long stretches. Nadal was constantly looking up to him and was happy playing #2 and chasing him to be better. I dont think Nadal in the past nor in anytime in the future even to himself would consider he is better than Federer ( and now thats just my opinion based on the numerous times he has referred to Federer’s game)

    Nadals greatness lies in the fact that having had a congenital foot injury at the very beginning of his career and the resulting injuries in knees and hips, along with a gamestyle that many thought would result in a short career, And oh also the many many times he lost out to injuries to making the countless comebacks to the very top. Having stayed at the top 2 /3 for a decade and more. His 12 french opens ( and counting) and the 81 match streak in clay and his phenomenal consistency over the years across all “surfraces”. Makes you wonder what would have been “If” he did not have those injuries and retirements and absences in the Slams. Would he have 25 slams ? 30 ?.. but like he says there are no “Ifs”. His injuries is what defines his greatness and in his abiltity to carve out this amount of success and continue to play beyond every criticism over his gamestyle.

    Novak’s greatness lies in the fact that during an era where two greats were racking up almost 40 slams, having wiped out entire generations of potential GS Champions, to butt in and emerge victorious in 16 and counting. Something that an entire player population would not the least fathom possible. To have that belief and come up with a mentality saying its no more just an honour to play these greats that they are just rivals. To having walked the talk and actually grow to dominate and better the head to head with these two ( At the moment! ). To building an all round game and showing dominance that could be be “arguably”even better than the other two.

    I think it is silly and irrational to push one behind the other, taking away all of their greatness they have showed and own for what should be for a long long time. Guess what, there was one greatest of all time, then there were two and now there are three of the “Greatest” ??? What the heck does that even mean. How many can be called the Greatest ? If one were to think that comes across as silly simply because noone can for certain put one behind the other.

    Reply

    • Very well said PK and I agree. The problem with comparisons is that they are inevitably invidious leading to the dissing of one player at the expense of the other. And there isn’t a level playing field, as we know, with some experiencing so many injuries.
      I would be very happy for the big 3 to end up with the same slam count. Their achievements are as much collective as individual and should be celebrated as such imo!!☺☺

      Reply

      • Thanks for the feedback Amy!. I was hoping for some concurrence and feedback from others as to this whole GOAT debate. I hope this rhetoric is put to rest and ended. More so someone like a John Mcenroe with his tennis brains shouldnt continue with saying three of the greatest players to have ever played the game. I hope it stops!. But with the media and the Internet age I doubt it will. You know what I think maybe these three should say it out loud that its plain ridiculous 🙂

        Reply

    • PK,

      Bravo! What a great post! I have aid for a long time that I do not but the whole idea of a “GOAT”. It may have started with Sampras but it really took hold with Fed fans. It is absurd! We never heard about this in the past. It was always about being the greatest in your era.

      Laver was the greatest of his time. But how can we compare that era to this one? People have said he won the calendar slam only on two surfaces – clay and grass. But there were no hard courts then. Only indoor wood. You can only play in the surfaces that exist. The reason why his achievement was so great is because none of his peers could do it. He played in a golden age back then, not a bad player among them. For years Roy Emerson held the record with 12 slams. Sampras finally broke that record. Rod Laver, Ken Rosewall, oancho Gonzales, Stan Smith, Tony Roche, Arthur Ashe. All great players.

      Trying to have one GOAT demeans the contributions of all the great players through the generations. They all deserve to be celebrated. We are fortunate to be living in an era where we have three great champions who have rewritten the history books.

      Reply

        • PK, I really like your thoughts re: the GOAT debate. I used to be a huge Sampras fan, too, and I remember very well how the debate started. Jon Wertheim was one of the first journalists who picked up on it at his mail bag for Sportsillustrated. But it didn’t start just with Sampras’s wife. Sampras himself started it. I distinctly remember a couple of interviews where he clearly said:”I want to be remembered as the best tennis player of all time!” He was a very ambitious guy, and he was gunning for all sorts of records – not just the slam count. When he retired, most tennis experts were convinced that his records would stand for a long, long time And that he was truly the GOAT. And then poor Pete had very little time to enjoy his records! Most of them were first broken by Fed, and then by Rafa and Novak, too. The only record of Pete which still stands today is the number of consecutive weeks as No 1. And Pete has to thank Rafa for that, who eventually wrestled the No 1 ranking away from Fed before Roger had as many consecutive weeks as No 1 as Pete. I still remember when Pete got that record. He played a lot more indoor tournaments at the end of the year in order to secure that record. He was totally spent afterwards and lost a lot of his hair in clumps that year. Pete was a great and is somewhat underappreciated today. I feel that in his prime he was a better grass court player than Roger – at least one the grass before 2002, when ità was still playing faster. But nowadays Pete isn’t even in the conversation re: the GOAT debate anymore. His biggest blemish is of course that he never won the FO. I hope he is at peace with himself. He clearly was the best player of his generation. But Fed, Rafa and Novak are the more accomplished players now.

          Reply

          • Thanks LittleFoot. I appreciate you taking the time to read my post and for the feedback. I didnt quite know Sampras actually said that, then he may have triggered what is now an unwarranted topic / debate. He was one of the best players at a time when tennis was almost a different sport. Somehow after his retirement, he came out with a flat personality and I could feel he wasnt really happy that someone came along that was arguably better than him. He didnt seem honestly happy that his slam record was broken ( Understandably something that was expected to hold good for a little longer)
            What I love about Fed and more so Rafa is that they bring so much more personality on and off the court ( Including Novak although he has a more aggressive, almost arrogant approach and thats ok thats what lifted him to greatness).
            I think Rafa and Feds presence will be felt strongly for years and decades after they leave the game with Feds humanitarian work and Rafas foundation and academy. Novak I hope changes the dynamic and becomes more loved ( or maybe its just me ..I cant say I like him as much as I do Rafa or Fed )
            You know what .. I was so pissed when Fed was getting close to beating Sampras myself, that he was beating lesser competition but at some point one has to accept greatness whether or not you like them as much. but I am glad Rafa and Novak came along to almost say noone can ever be the greatest and that the past greats deserve to be appreciated and NOT be forgotten.

    • 3-2 😂 I knew it won’t be as easy as many thought.

      Nadal has a strong will when playing most times and determination he is mentally strong in this type of matches.

      Congrats to all Rafans 😂 enjoy this 😂, it might not happen again 🤣😂🤣🤗

      Reply

  160. Just found out Rafa won!!☺
    I couldn’t watch the match which is just as well.as I might have dropped dead half way through judging by the scoreline and comments!
    Love you all and I promised you PK after Rafa lost at wimby I would celebrate him winning the USO with you!
    Big hugs for everyone especially PK, Elizabeth, Nny and Mira!
    So proud of Rafa!💓💜👑👑🎉🎉🎆🎆🎇🎇

    Reply

    • Ah welcome Amy!. Got to say I missed you!. Hope all is ok with you. Yes while I had hoped and prayed he would win the US and said we could celebrate, I wasnt too sure if he would actually go all the way. He did and its awesome. Big hugs to you too. Take care

      Now what .. Do we plan to celebrate at the Aussie ? WTF ? :).. Take care Amy!

      Reply

      • I don’t care about wtf PK but another AO would be great! Did you watch the match? As I just said I would probably have dropped dead if I had watched live! Especially as I leave so many updates here. Did Danii really play well.to take it to 5 or did Rafa blow his lead? Or a mixture of both?

        Reply

        • Rafa tightened up amy..he could have wrapped it in 3..he was up a break in third but one messes up overhead by Rafa gave the break back..he tightened up business end of sets 3 n 4. End of fourth n start of fifth he could not buy a serve n could not hit a ball inside the lines …he saved 3 bps start of fifth n then he played very well all the way till he was serving for match..when serving for match he again tightened up n lost serve..had 2 match points then on dannils serve but dannil aced him. When serving for match second time, he was again down bp but played brilliant last 3 points.

          Dannil played to win,serves well, good fh ,very good bh n he was aggressive n he comes to net a lot too. He is a real deal.

          Reply

          • Thanks sanju!I wish I could have watched with you all but I am slightly ill so would have dropped dead if I watched for hours! Rafa should pay for health insurance for his fans as it really is a risk to one’s health and sanity watching him sometimes!
            Glad that Danii is the real deal. Tennis needs one of the young players to step up.
            Very proud of Rafa being able to play clutch in the end after squandering the lead. That’s psychologically very difficult. Especially with the older vs younger player dynamic.

        • Oh No I did not watch the match Amy. I woke up 3.15 am to see he bagged the first somehow and then a nervous second. I was half dead just reading the updates here. Usually Nadal frees up after he gets the 1st. It was surprising to know he was as nervous he was. I was shocked he was a break ahead in the 3rd and still lost the next two. I wrote my first comment when he held what I learnt after was 5 bps in the 2nd game. I had a feeling he would use that momentum and break next and wished for another insurace which he took as well. it didnt get any easier when he gave up one and was close to give up another when he was serving at 5-4. I am getting older and this is becoming even more difficult to handle to see Rafa through. I am so glad and relieved he did and things went his way. He deserved it and I am glad he didnt face a nobody. You should have watched Daniil at the ceremony. He is awesome. Got everything to be a future GS champion and #1. I hope he makes it. he is the very likeable and extremely humble. His speech was I think the funniest after Li Na’s at the Aussie. Such a loveable character. So glad he got back the crowd back in his favour after a rough tournament.

          Hope you are recovered and doing well. Tc

          Reply

          • I saw the footage of the trophy ceremony! Danii was charming.. with a wonderful self-deprecating wit! He is like a character out of Dostoevsky! – kind of wild with a bad streak yet very honest and loveable. I hope he isn’t going to be a comet which flares bright then disappears.
            He’s a real breath of fresh air…

          • I have a feeling he would make it. He showed some tremendous fight against someone like Rafa while being all but out and I think he has a good head over his shoulders. I thought Tsitsipas did well to beat Fed at the Aussie but someone these guys arent inspired, maybe too intimated with the kind of benchmark set by these three. Daniil seems yea a breath of fresh air and I hope he continues. Tennis would do good with someone like him.

    • Yoohoo amy!..Woohohoho!…You’re late to the party!…How r u amy??Long time no hear!

      Thanks for the shout out…Big hug from a far away land amy!😙💖

      Reply

      • Big hug mira! Have just written a post to nny explaining why I haven’t been here…!
        Did you watch the match mira? I really couldn’t as would have dropped dead and would also have written about a trillion mad updates!☺☺
        Very proud of Rafa for being clutch in the end.
        Another hug for you, nny, PK and Elizabeth!!👑👑👑💖💖💖🎇🎆🎉🎉

        Reply

        • Oh yeah amy!…I watched it!…But urgh!…Match started at 4am..and bcoz i was so xcited to c Rafa bagged his 19th,i already woke up at 1:30am & can’t sleep at all till 3pm next day!!…Urgh!!…I felt like i’m floating on air & not walking on the ground all day long!hehe…but it’s all worth it!!….Woohooo!

          #20ispossiblenow!

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  161. 19 fist pumps to Rafa for winning the 19th Grand Slam title of his career!

    🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆

    💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪

    Hip hip hoorey!

    💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥💥

    Reply

  163. Thanks Amy.I stopped watching when Rafa was break up third set as the match looked over and couldn’t believe when I looked again. So glad Med made a real epic out of it,richly deserved by Rafa to come through that.I did feel no-one was going to beat him on this court and with Djokos draw.
    Med is the real deal.Perhaps his biggest achievement was winning over the crowd!

    Reply

    • I have been out of the tennis loop Al so just catching up! Didn’t know Rafa won Montreal. Is Fed ok? Hope so as the game is immeasurably impoverished without him and Nole.
      Was saying above I.hope the big 3 end up with the same slam count. What number will.that be??! I do sincerely hope Fed wins another soon to take away the taste of that horrible loss to Nole at wimby.
      For me the big 3 are equally great. But then I don’t like the silly goat debate and the rhetoric around it!

      Reply

      • amy,

        Where have you been? We were wondering here what was going on with you. You are lucky not to have suffered through the stress is watching that match. It was going along very predictably and then Rafa messed up and gave back the break and let Medvedev back in the match. From that point on it was a roller coaster ride. I had to stop watching after Rafa lost the third set. I knew he made a big mistake letting this guy in the match.

        I have health problems and the stress was too much. Watching Rafa unable to gain traction and assert himself in sets 3 and 4, was just terrible. But I dislike this narrative that the change is coming. Novak and Fed are not going anywhere. That Wimbledon final took a lot out of both of them and I believe that is why they both lost at the USO.

        I have to think that the pressure got to Rafa. He was expected to win. The favorite. So it got to him. It bothered me when the crowd was booing him for taking too much time. The crowd kind of turned on him. That along with him struggling to fight off Medvedev, was very hard to see.

        Rafa got away with it when he played Schwartzman. But this time he paid the price. I had to go back and watch how it all played out in the fifth set. Rafa did amazingly well to get the break finally and then the double break. But he still could not get over the finish line. Finally he did it!

        But I am not about to write off the top three. I think they will continue to maintain their dominance even in 2020. I remember when Delpo won the 2009 USO and he was supposed to be the next big thing. But injuries derailed his career. Then Cilic won the USO in 2014 after both Fed and Novak lost in the semifinals. That was supposed to be the beginning of a new era.

        Well the top three are still there. I think they have more wins in them. We will see if Medvedev can continue to do well.

        Reply

        • I have been very tied up with politics nny. The situation here is terrible as I am sure you know. Am not surprised at one level as I have been saying here for years our democracy was heading into a crisis but it’s still.frightening and exhausting.
          I left a post for you and others above. I meant to come here before but I’ve been a bit sick and there was no way I could stay up into the early hours. Are you alright my dear? Not suffering too much health wise? Sending you healing good wishes. I just have a slight virus, it’s not serious.
          So proud of our darling Rafa even if he is addicted to doing things the hard way!☺
          #19

          Reply

          • amy,

            So great to see you here! We just dodged a bullet with this hurricane. It passed southern Florida and hit northern Florida but mainly the Carolinas.

            PK and I speculated that the political situation in the U.K. was very upsetting to you. Really shocking with that Trump clone you have as a Prime Minister. We should talk politics on the non-tennis forum. Terrible to see what is happening with your government. Yet we know all about with the Orange Menace!

          • So no damage from the hurricane nny??
            The Speaker of the House has just resigned. This is potentially another huge erosion of democracy as even though he was a Conservative mp he was loved by the opposition for holding the executive to account. So the opposition parties have given him a standing ovation and the government bench sat there in stony silence. God knows who they will appoint. We should transfer this to the non tennis forum to discuss although not today!
            Great to see you here ☺☺

          • Amy, I am sorry for the amount of stress you are going through and the things that are happening in your country. I wouldnt know the right things to say or If I can make you feel better. I would say my thoughts, prayers and wishes are there for you. Stay strong and stay healthy!

        • Hi NNY
          Have been inundated with houseguests for most of the summer thus little time for posting here but managed to follow most of the matched on catch up ager everyone was asleep. Hence I’m now suffering from sleep deprivation 😴

          Reply

  164. This final was a Rocky Balboa – Ivan Drago fight, and what could be more fitting for an USO final?
    It wasn’t the best final in terms of tennis quality, far from it, but it was one of the fiercest combats in a USO final, if not the most tense, draining, nerve wrecking and brutal one. (I am referring strictly to USO finals, not other finals, not other USO matches).
    The spectators were uncivilized (to say the least), the referee was an idiot, and the humidity was terrible.
    And then you pit two of the game’s iron men against each other and let them do their worst.
    This match was a punishment for both players and I assume for anyone having a favorite in this match.
    But punishment should be followed by redemption and I think that this is exactly how it all ended.
    Medvedev was absolved for his wrongdoings against the crowd.
    Rafa (and his fans) deservedly reached his 19th heaven.

    Nadal wasn’t at his best. Maybe the humidity is to blame but more likely the “stomach bug” he caught earlier this week had some lingering effects.
    However, for anyone doubting Nadal: who would you rather have playing for your life, regardless of the surface, if not him?

    Reply

    • amy,

      No damage from Dorian! We got lucky! But I was a nervous wreck waiting to see what would happen. Unfortunately, it destroyed the Bahamas. They got the worst of it.

      Just come on the non-tennis forum when you are ready to talk. I have been following the news in the UK and it is very concerning.

      Reply

  165. Congrats to Rafa fans. The victory was hardly fought and deserved.
    Med earned my respect. Since Fed, never felt something as strong for a player. His speech was nice. Felt sorry for him. But would have felt sorry for Rafa too. You can’t have 2 winners unfortunately. I felt Rafa needed more this win, considering how much it means to his family and his wedding is around this period, so this title has more weight actually…

    Reply

    • Eugene,

      Thanks for the nice thoughts. It was an amazing match, to say the least. It’s really rare, if not unheard of, for a first time slam finalist to beat a multi-slam champion but Medvedev came very, very close! He must have ice water in his veins. Yes, he can be quite charming when he wants to be. He can also be very ugly in his behavior. Not talking about only this week but prior incidents. We’ll see. People CAN change. That’s part of Rafa’s belief system so as a dedicated Rafan, I guess I should believe that too.

      Reply

      • In the past 10 years, Del Potro beat Federer right at USO. Wawrinka beat Nadal (albeit injured) at AO. Federer and Nadal would have won their first final against anyone, but so it happened that they met mediocre players.

        Reply

  166. Why are Rafans so generous in wanting all 3 to end with same slam count. Will any fedfan or Novak fan say this ? Rafa has maximum to lose I hope we realize if all end with same count. It means we are limiting Rafa to just 2 more assuming fed has one more in him when Rafa can win more than 2 . And we are giving Novak all the liberty to win 5 more

    Reply

    • I like the idea of the Big Three all ending up with the same slam total. Seems poetic justice and I don’t care what Fedfans or Nolefans think. All three have been and continue to be amazing, legendary tennis players with their own unique strengths and weaknesses.

      Rafael Nadal, physically strong and energetic but also physically challenged, destined (most said) for a short career, winner of 19 (and counting) slams, holder of the most Masters titles ever, Holder of the most continuous weeks in the Top 10 (top 8 really, since he qualified for WTF every year since 2005), titlist every year since 2004!, winner of 400+ matches each on clay and hard. Rafa used to set records for “youngest ever” – now, to his own astonishment, I’m sure, he’s starting to set records for “oldest ever”!

      Reply

  167. Yeah Rafa was amazing well deserved victory it wasn’t easy.

    Unfortunately a sadist from the UK who is obsessed with politics and stupidity can’t help herself she loves to spread hatred, division everywhere she goes, the funny thing is that idiots like her are morally and intellectually blind they can’t see that they are wrong and are fighting the wrong battle maybe it’s not funny but sad 😔.

    It’s like biting the hand that feeds you this self deceived Fools are fighting the ones who are fighting for true Freedom/Liberty because they know the sovereignty and future of their country is at stake.

    Honestly we all need morons like her because they remind us that “freedom is not free”
    but worth fighting for.

    I am not from the UK but BREXIT is going to happen whether you like it or not so STFU B!*ch 😂😘😉

    Reply

      • NNY! I agree!!. Show some respect!. I didnt even know how to respond to this crap. and I certainly didnt want to have a “conversation”

        There is a lot more love and respect on here that most could ever spread. I hope Ricky can delete this post. No place for it here.

        Reply

  168. Sanju- You’re right that a die-hard fan of any of the Big-3 would love for their guy to end up with the most majors. However, from my perspective, I think it would be amazing for them all to end up with the same amount just because all 3 of them are so incredibly amazing, each for their own unique reasons! It’s not even about which one would be considered the “GOAT”. Even now, all 3 guys each have legitimate arguments for being considered the greatest. Anytime you have to split cells to choose “the one”, it really calls into question if it’s even really possible for one of them to be definitively greater than the other 2. It’s because of this that I would personally love it if they all ended with the same amount of major titles.

    I admit, though, that I think it’s highly unlikely that they all end up with the same amount. Even if Fed managed to bag one more, what are the odds that Rafa doesn’t win at least 3 or 4 more majors before he retires? And what are the odds that Novak doesn’t go on at least one more tear where he wins 3 out of 4, or 4 out of 5? If Rafa and Novak were Fed’s age, then it would be much more likely that they all end up with the same amount. But at 33 and 32 years old, those guys have at least a few years left of very high level. And who is realistically going to stop them from bagging all the majors? Medvedev clearly is capable, but I don’t believe for a second that he is going to single-handedly stop those two guys from winning a lot more majors. The road has just been so cleared for Rafa and Djoko to just keep on racking them up for the next 3 or more years. And they’re not stupid- they know that no one but themselves can stop them. They know the opportunity is huge. Ok, maybe Fed could stop Rafa in 2020 if they met at AO or Wimbledon, but it would still be a toss-up, and that would only be 1 more year. Fed will be out of the picture for good after next year. I just don’t see any realistic way that Rafa and Novak don’t both end up with 22+ majors.

    Reply

  169. Oh, by the way….. Congrats to all the Rafans!! While Medvedev put up a hell of a fight and Rafa looked rattled for a moment there, Rafa’s victory was never in doubt for me because he would never, EVER lose a slam Final from 2 sets to 0 up. It was never in doubt that he would ultimately come up bigger in the absolute biggest moments, especially against a first-time Major finalist.

    As I stated before the tournament, the US Open is the most ideal non-clay tournament for Rafa, especially since they installed the upper-facade. The conditions and court are perfect for his game, and he thrives in the Ashe stadium atmosphere. As long as he is healthy, NO ONE is beating Rafa on Ashe outside of Novak. If he can stay healthy and the field remains relatively weak, I see no reason that Rafa can’t end up with the most US Open titles ever. It’s so interesting to me that the 4th major of the year, which comes toward the tail-end of the season, has turned out to be one of Rafa’s best tournaments. Given his injury concerns, you would think that it would actually be the AO where he would dominate, given that he is fresh and healthy at the start of the year. Very amazing that he’s done so well at USO! Congrats to Rafa!

    Reply

    • Not amazing, because Rafa often got injured by end of year lately, and so he’s busy recovering from injuries, hence not well prepared for the AO – in 2017 when he reached the final, he was just back from injury at tail end of 2016. In 2018, he was back from knee injury suffered at Shanghai in 2017. In 2019, he was coming back from long injury break since USO2018. Had he not being injured at those years, perhaps he could do better at the AO.

      Rafa did better at the USO not because of the roof; he was winning in 2010, 2013 and 2017 without the roof. His 2010 was amazing because he’s playing well enough to win the channel slam plus the USO. He was also playing well in 2011 except that Djoko v2 arrived and had beaten Rafa at the Wimbledon and USO final. To me, those two years plus 2008/2009 were the peak years of Rafa’s career when he’s at his physical peak (sadly he got injured at end of 2008 and during 2009). He reached 9 finals of 15 slams played, winning 7 of them.

      From 2012 onwards, Rafa did poorly at Wimbledon because of some knee issues; he lost early there from 2012-2015; perhaps because of that, he’s physically in better shape for the last slam of the year, the USO. He won it in 2013 beating Djoko in the final; didn’t play in 2012/2014 due to injuries; had his slump years in 2015/2016 hence lost early there.

      From 2017 to 2019, he’s out of his slump and started to win slams again, with a more aggressive improved game, with the help of Moya as his new coach. He had reached 7 finals in 12 slams played, winning 5 of them, and except for Wimbledon 2017, has at least reached the QF of every slam played.

      To me, from 2017 onwards, Rafa was and is still having his second wind (or second chance) of his career, playing high quality tennis and an improved more skilful all court game with less grinding. Thanks to Moya for bring all those changes to Rafa’s game. He’s still facing tough opponents in Djoko and Fed, all three made the top three in at least two out of the three years of 2017-2019.

      Rafa winning at the USO is not a surprise to me, because that is his second best slam, ever since he won there for the first time in 2010. The conditions get tougher there after having the roof which block out the wind and making the AA stadium more humid esp at night. Rafa prefers outdoor conditions with a bit of wind and less humidity.

      The AO is not favourable to Rafa because of very slow conditions there in the past that favor Djoko more than him (Djoko was/is fitter than Rafa now because he has better knees!) and from 2017 onwards the courts there became quicker thus favoring another player ie Fed.

      Reply

      • AO court has low bounce. Rafa likes higher bounce and his BH imparts more depth and becomes destructive. I think one of mainstays of his victory is his BH which has stood tall and made his opponents run a lot.

        Adding speed to his serve helped, but ideally Rafa would like to get more out of his serve. He should get first serve % high, it was in low fifty’s in key moments.

        Reply

      • Luckystar, I read your detailed analysis in the rafa fans website on what rafa should do and i agree. So you’ve seen Moya’s statement which solidifies my point that rafa should forget about the world no 1 ranking. Get some long rest and get married. Play one masters 1000 and one 500 tournament and the wtf. Forget about the laver cup and either one of paris or shanghai. He was cramping terribly after the final, case closed.

        Reply

      • NNY, I completely agree. Let’s not get carried away and think all of a sudden medvedev will win all slams in hardcourt. People forget rafa should have won the match in three sets but the presuure got to him and medvedev capitalised. Beating novak in a slam is a different thing altogether than beating him in a best of 3.

        Reply

        • Happy,

          Yes it’s good to see someone else not get carried away on the Medvedev bandwagon. I cannot count how many times I have seen the supposed next big thing in tennis play one great match and then never equal it again. Too many times.

          I am not saying that this will happen with zMedvedev. We need to wait and see. Medvedev took what Rafa gave him. Rafa got sloppy and Medvedev was able to take advantage. It’s always dangerous to let your opponent back in a match. Rafa did it with Schwartzman, but he could not take full advantage of it.

          It is way too premature to start saying that Medvedev will win a slam, the AO or any other. Rafa, Fed and Nole are not done yet. They are not going anywhere.

          This business is jumping on the bandwagon of a young player, can get annoying. It’s not like the gates will just open up and Medvedev will have it handed to him on a silver platter.

          We should keep in mind that Rafa did come back after losing sets 3 and 4 to ultimately win the fifth set. He also did it not serving his best. But he fought hard and rose to the challenge. Medvedev did very well to make a match out of it. But Rafa still won and that should not get lost in all of the hype.

          Reply

  171. I watched a slightly extended highlights. That volley in the 3rd was a bad miss but I dont know if that point would have turned around the match. I must say Danill played without giving up and was pretty good. Yea Nadal could have been better and closed it out but it didnt seem like Nadal gave up on the fight either. He was trying pretty hard and his game was good enough to beat most.. other than the fact that Daniil was fighting equallly hard. Great match!

    Reply

      • Oh Sorry Sanju. I watched it on TV and didnt record it. I think its much the same like the official highlights at the US Open or perhaps on ATP World Tour website. It just looked extended maybe because it was five sets but it did have some of the key points.

        I will try to look it up online and let you know if I find it. but youtube does have some longer versions now.

        Reply

  172. Native,

    Oh I wish I can say I am surprised 😂 you are simply a Moronic Fool as usual you have never changed keep it up darling keep it up 👍.

    In other words there is no place for facts or opinions that expose the nonsense you and Amy spread.

    You and others can spew your political and immoral trash everywhere and that’s ok but when I criticize that stupidity there is no place for it 🤣🤣🤣 amazing 😂, what does that sound like?

    Anyways I don’t visit this website as often as I used to just been busy with a lot of things so…

    The last time we spoke I think you were justifying murdering innocent babies as health care 🤣 amazing 😂😂😂 and other Evil and disgusting things.

    Some people never change once again keep it up ok, just know this your time definitely will come and I hope you realize the truth before it’s too late because if you don’t you will regret for all eternity.

    I sincerely wish you the best so take care.

    Reply

    • Why is this vile misogyny and hate speech not deleted? Over and over he posts this rubbish and nothing is done. If it’s not misogyny, it’s Islamophobia or something equally repulsive. Why hasn’t Stanley been banned long ago?

      Reply

      • nny, I have a policy of just not reading Stanley’s and rubbishgoat ‘s posts. If you ignore them they tend to go away quicker. But he has attacked you in vile terms using vile language so I had to say something. It’s ridiculous that this stuff isn’t deleted. Loads of people on site have asked at various times that his posts be deleted and/or that he be banned.

        Reply

        • amy,

          I responded because of a comment Stanley left directed at you. I think on this site we are supposed to just ignore this filth. I agreexthet he should have been banned a long time ago. He is not here to talk about tennis. He is here to troll.

          I did not respond to his vile comment. There is nothing to say to someone who is that disturbed and filled with hate.

          Reply

    • But Rafa is already playing Golf back at Majorca. His knees are fine as far as I know. I believe he knows what to do, and if he’s not fit, he won’t play LC.

      Reply

      • Yes luckystar, I agree there’s no way in hell he’ll be playing golf if his knees were bad. It maybe just terrible cramping which is not unusual. Medvedev was cramping in this US open as well in the earlier rounds and he was obviously okay in the final. So it’s not just rafa. But still, laver cup is a pointless tournament. He doesnt need to do fed any favours. He has to be VERY cautious. He played laver cup in 2017 which was a terrible mistake and payed a terrible price for it. Please, He should skip it. I was wondering why rafa was not giving interviews and tv shows after the final while bianca andreescu was all over the place. It’s clear now, he was obviously exhausted and those cramps didn’t help.

        Reply

        • Personally I don’t care at all for LC! As you say, it’s a pointless exhibition, and right now the public doesn’t attach a lot of prestige to it. Maybe, that will change eventually. But apparently the players themselves seem to enjoy it very much. It’s fun for them to be team players for a change. And I feel that Rafa and Roger have grown closer over the last few years. It’s very interesting that Roger insisted to have Rafa by his side in the players council, and that Rafa agreed to return because of Roger. Therefore I think that Rafa, if he isn’t totally compromised, will at least make an appearance at LC. He could play doubles with Roger, for example. The fans really dig to watch Fedal as a team for a change. Fedal will most likely always remain the most cherished tennis rivalry ever, btw, even if both players’ rivalry with the Djoker has been much more intense.

          Reply

    • Maybe some of it was cramping. He just finished a five hour match. At 33 he’s not going to be jumping all over the place,

      If his knees are acting up after this, then he and his team will act accordingly and make the right decision.

      After the trophy ceremony ESPN showed him walking through the hallway and his trainer Maymo gave him something to drink. I thought he was walking s little bit awkwardly at one point. Rafa needs his rest!

      Reply

  174. He had cramps in locker room later as per moya. He needed help to even wear his jeans .

    Any idea if Rafa or his team have said he is injured. He maybe sore and he was very tires. He never asked for any treatment during match .

    Btw read a tweet by Christopher the tennis journalist that Novak’s shoulder issue is not something that will go away by just rest.

    Reply

  175. What did moya say..he did not say Rafa should not chase no 1. He just said he will play laver cup and get married. If Rafa is too tired, I am sure he can tell Fed it’s not possible. Infact he can visit Geneva n be with team,offer support but not play…is that not possible

    Anyone knows what rafas schedule is ?

    Thankgod Rafa won it. Had he lost after such a long match would be horrible n on top have dodgy knees too.

    Reply

    • Hi Sanju, moya didnt say he shouldnt chase no.1. I am the one suggesting that to luckystar. He is obviously not injured I hope. But those cramps are horrible. He should please skip that laver cup which is completely pointless anyway. Play fewer tournaments (one 1000 and 500) then wtf. Maybe skip beijing and paris but play basel and shanghai and then wtf. If his knees or body is that bad, maybe play even less than that. He doesnt have much points to defend anyway considering he was injured last year at this time till the end of last year. Just my humble opinion but i believe rafa and his team will do what’s best for him.

      Reply

      • He is surely not playing Beijing. He told Spanish media he is not sure of Shanghai too as it clashes too close with wedding

        I think just laver,Paris and wtf for him n I doubt he will gain much points on these. He has better chance at Shanghai

        Reply

        • Isn’t paris and wtf back to back? I don’t know if it’s a good idea to play paris and wtf back to back. But ok, him and his team knows best. He can play shanghai then if it doesn’t interfere with his wedding. He can’t gain anything in laver cup bc it’s just a pointless tournament, basically an exhibition. Why not skip it? Anyway, he knows best

          Reply

          • No, not B2B, there’s a one week break in between, where the next gen final takes place.

            I think Rafa will play the LC, because I think he fully enjoys playing a team event. I do think after playing the LC in 2017, he was in good mood and was playing great tennis, so that led to him reaching B2B finals at Beijing and Shanghai and winning at Beijing. I do think Rafa is smart enough not to play Beijing this time after LC, that means he’ll have two weeks rest before playing at Shanghai (if he decides to play there).

            Rafa is getting married the week after Shanghai I heard (and Rafa is supposed to play an exho with Djoko the following week (in South America?). What a schedule? He definitely won’t be playing at Basel if the SA exho is in the week before Basel.

            My initial guess is he’ll play DC matches, LC, rest for two weeks and then play at Shanghai; gets married the week after, and then going to SA for a short honeymoon following the exho there with Djoko. Thereafter, comes back to Europe and plays Paris Masters, practise in London the week after and then plays WTF. If Spain reaches final of DC, to play for Spain in the final.

            A hectic schedule but doable if he finished off Medvedev in straight sets in the USO final. Now that he suffered so much during and after the final, I feel there’ll certainly be some changes.

    • That would indeed be a nasty blow for Novak! In that case Rafa probably doesn’t really need to chase the year-end No 1 ranking. He may have earned it already, since hes’s leading the race comfortably and doesn’t have to defend a lot of points from now on.
      I think that at this point in their respective careers both, Novak and Rafa (and Fed, too), value health more than ranking. And they won’t do anything which could possibly compromise their health and fitness. For them the ranking is only important insofar as it guarantees that they don’t have to play each other in the earlier rounds.

      Reply

        • We have to wait and see what Rafa will do. I’m sure he won’t do anything which will compromise his health during the next season. However, if gaining the year-end No 1 ranking only means that he has to snag a few points here and there, he might be tempted to go for it. The opportunity for bagging the No 1 ranking doesn’t present itself often if one considers the current situation and Rafa’s age.
          Fun fact: Rafa is the only player with multiple year-end No 1s, who didn’t get them consecutively. Some experts think that this detracts from his legacy, since he was never able to defend the No 1 ranking in the following season. But on the other hand he always managed to come back and regain the pole position. Maybe, that is even more difficult to achieve – especially at his age.

          Reply

    • Thanks for the link, but that guy (Luigi Gatto) is not a very reliable source and the article is full of “may” in any case.

      Rafa has said to the Spanish press that his schedule will depend on his body. That includes Davis Cup. Laver Cup is really not very demanding. They play 2 sets + TB if required, 2 matches for the tournament. They also play doubles but that’s far less demanding than singles. It didn’t injure him in 2017 but trying to play a full fall schedule in pursuit of YE #1 did.

      Yes, Rafa will not play a fall 500. I think he was hoping to play Shanghai but that may be off the table too.

      Don’t think Rafa would be out golfing if he was actually injured. I’m sure he used a golf cart though.

      Reply

      • I agree that tennisworldusa isn’t a very reliable source. It’s more like a tennis tabloid. I never go there for hard information.

        Reply

    • I don’t think it’s sad. I think that they want to deal with this injury and not let it linger and hamper Nole moving forward next year. They did say a minor surgery. He can recuperate and be healthy and ready for the new year.

      He was obviously suffering and it’s best to deal with it in the right way. I wish him good luck and a speedy recovery.

      Reply

  177. I am not a Rafan but if Rafa and his team are wise which I think they are then Rafa should take a little break and only play in the remaining important tournaments.

    Rafa always has problems when he plays a lot especially towards the end of the season, I know he is motivated and happy about this US Open victory but he should play it smart to avoid injuries, exhaustion etc.

    Reply

  179. Yes, LC is actually a small exhibition. But its demanding. 2 sets at max, third one is a TB.

    I dont think Rafa is doing Asian swing. He will call it off. Anyway Djoker won Shanghai, so Rafa need not worry about no.1 ranking.

    I think these kind of physical matches ultimately take a toll. Look at what happened to Djoker and Fed post Wimbledon. Nole started having shoulder problems. Fed had his back problems as well. And grass is more forgiving.

    So, Rafa need to act smart here. He can even shut down the year after LC. Rafa has always come back stronger, he does not need so many matches to get to his best. He reached AO finals after not so much match play. Then after Wimbledon and playing 4 matches in Toronto, he was again back to his best in US swing.

    He just needs to focus on majors now with him being so close to all time pole position.

    Reply

      • Spot on. Play Paris and London.

        One of the key reasons as to why Rafa has been able to sustain physically this season attributes to the fact that he was not involved in long matches right from his clay swing till now. No five set matches, easy wins, in fact he was little lucky as well to get much needed rest in Canada and USO when he his opponent withdrew.

        But knowing him, he will play LC. I hope he can just go there and extend his support to the team passively but LC is a junk exhibition.

        Reply

      • Ricky,

        I agree with you. No way does Rafa need yo aggravate the knees after that punishing final. He needs to be smart about his schedule now.

        Reply

  180. I think Rafa will play LC, he loves team competition. I think he’ll most probably skip Shanghai, and then plays Paris Masters and WTF (DC final perhaps if Spain gets to the final).

    The way Rafa is playing on the HCs, I think he has good chances of winning both, as Djoko and Fed are injured, and Fed after playing Basel may even skip Paris.

    I don’t know about Medvedev, will he continue with his winning ways through the last quarter of the season? Its still a question mark, as physically his summer NA HC season may start to take its toll on him.

    I think Rafa is playing well enough to beat the rest of the field.

    Reply

  181. I think we all just want Rafa to stay as healthy as he can! He wants that too, and I think he’s learned a bit of caution from his problems. But I think we’ve all learned that high level pro tennis past the age of 30 will lead to injuries. It’s the nature of elite (and even not-so-elite) sport. Well, the younger guys are not immune either!

    Reply

  182. Has anyone else seen Moya’s comments about how he believes Rafa hasn’t yet reached his peak? Wonder what people think? I kind of agree with him as there is more Rafa can add to his game than say Nole perhaps who is already so.balanced from both wings with great ros and better serve than Rafa.

    Reply

    • I saw them. I expect Moya knows a bit more about Rafa than I do. 🙂 I do think Moya tends to be optimistic but that’s probably good in a coach.

      Reply

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