... but my nerves are eating me away.
I can understand a slow start, it's not like he hasn't had them in Slams before. Scheduling, weather, hit and hope, the Best of 5 format for the first time in a year ... I can go on. But I also can't help wondering where all that utterly delightful tennis he played at the weekend in Rome has gone. What's happened in two weeks?
Toni encouraging, Toni having furtive chats with Costa, Rafa's quizzical, pained face. It feels familiar, and not in a good way.
But the third set was better, he was 5-1 at one stage ... but then it changed. I hope I'm wrong, and I hope to be stunned by his brilliance once more. I'm just worried.
Wooffie:
ReplyDeleteRelax! We have been here before. Go review Rome 2006 vs Fed. Review the 5 sets vs Isner at French Open in the past...Wimbledon 2008 up 2 sets , lose 2 tie breakers when choked in 4th set...more recently, Indian Wells vs. Delpo, down a set and a break and not playing well. He is the champ... the King! That's why we love him cuz when he seems down, he comes up with something special cuz he has that fighting spirit..never say die. Even when he is not playing well. Toni will handle. We will suffer thru the drama. He will be back on task by the semis. Keep the faith.
Catherine of Tampa
Wooffie:
ReplyDeleteWaiting for your response!!!
Catherine of Tampa
The Knee.
ReplyDeleteHe's been playing well since he came back because he was simply happy to be back and having the chance to compete. Now, suddenly at RG, there is a huge expectation on him to become the first player ever to win a slam for the 8th time. He has arrived at RG and realised that, and the nerves have set in. The bloody awful weather, bad scheduling, the Parisian crowds, I think all have contributed to his "unusual" play here; I think he could use a massive dose of love and support and belief from his fans right now to help him overcome whatever is troubling him.
ReplyDeleteAgreed Jackie.
ReplyDeleteMonday is Rafa's 27th Birthday. Looking forward to a "win" for his birthday. As he said, he needs more "calm." He will pull himself together today in practice. Hope the knee is OK.
Catherine of Tampa