Even though it was a recording, it was mighty fine today to sit myself down to watch Rafa play a competitive match. Largely stress free ... which is always a bonus.
After the fright of the other day, I guess we were all a bit yikesy as to how Rafa was and if he was going to be able to play at a level good enough to win. Thankfully, we didn't have to worry. Rafa played beautifully in those first two sets and for me anyway, it was the first time I'd properly watched him play competitively since last summer ... and what a joy. Whether Rafa dropped his level in the third set or Sela relaxed and just tried to play better tactics against him, it was much more competitive. But when he survived the break points in that 11th game, he just went right for it in the next and the victory was his.
He faces Kevin Anderson next ... yawn. But unfortunately he's one of those heavy servers and hitters and this could be a real test of Rafa's condition. Hopefully over the next 48 hours he will get some sleep *winks* and a bit more recuperation, and let's hope against hope that he's ready and able for the fight.
One match at a time Rafa ... small baby steps. And we're right with you every single step of the way.
No comments:
Post a Comment