Ruthless Rafa ...

I didn't get to see the match for two reasons.

(1) The time difference and (2) in their wisdom, Friday's play is NOT televised. *shakes head* But the scoreline and the headlines were great to wake up to this morning, so let's see what Rafa had to say about it all ...

"He hit the ball very hard at the beginning of the match. I thought it's going to be a very difficult match," said Nadal. "[It was] 2-2, 0/30. I came back in that game with a few good serves.I think after that I didn't have mistakes... When I had the chance to hit the ball with my forehand, I did. I think I [played] a very good match."

Sounds like a great start, Rafa ...

"The Latin crowd makes this tournament very, very special. I would love to win one time in my career, but [I've done] well. I played three finals."

Indeed, three finals. Let's hope you get some luck this time round, Rafa. For the Latin fans and us! Vamos!!