Farewell Freaky Fridays ...

And thank God for that ...

I know Rafa's scoreline against Pico was almost a whitewash ... but I still thought it was more about how bad Pico was and how he couldn't hold serve to save his life.  And although Rafa seemed to be storming against Niemenemenemenenemen ... he just went off to unexpectedly let him back in the second set at 3-3, although he picked up to win it.

I'd started to feel that in all the clay court tournies this season, it was a bit of bad luck on Rafa's part in that draws opened up so damn much yet he seemed to be the one with the big test in the quarters ... even though he's No. 1.  And I know what Rafa's H2H is like against Rolf (Berdych ... remember he looks like Rolf the grassing Nazi from "The Sound of Music"), but Rolf should have a game that to trouble him.  You know, a big serve, big, flat groundstrokes ... but thankfully, he doesn't.

I thought Rolf played pretty OK at the start of the match, but one thing stuck out for me today about Rafa's game, and that was he worked really, really hard.  I think utter guts and will forced that break in the first set ... and then of course, we were treated to some wonderful vintage clay court Rafa.  A determined service game won him the first set, and another equally good one won him the match.

I've discussed in previous posts what I feel about Rafa's upbringing and mentality.  And I also feel it's time to get used to the fact that 10 seasons of projected pressure of W-W-W-W-W is too much.  That's sport.  So whilst we always hope for the absolute best for Rafa, I just want to try and enjoy what he has.  And let me tell you ... I enjoyed today.  He hit some fabulous winners, a couple of great returns, he served hard, and he worked hard and he got a good and deserved victory today.

The world has now spun back on it's axis and I'm looking forward to a weekend of clay court tennis under the sun of Europe ... as it should be.  I want this for Rafa and his confidence, but as always ... one match at a time.

But good shout today Rafa.  A really good performance.  VAMOS!!!