Progress!!

Now THAT dear readers ... was Rafa Nadal.

If I came across over-critical in my thoughts over Rafa's quarter-final, I was much impressed by his real change of attitude from the start of his semi-final. OK, he struggled to find a first serve in his opening game, but there was a marked difference evident in the second game as Rafa stood up and attempted to be aggressive. Shame he couldn't convert all the break points he had in the 6th game, and shame still that he didn't take the set on a break point, but I was liking what I was seeing.

But even when he was 1-6 down in that tie-break, I was sitting there thinking that it didn't matter if he went a set down, he was doing so much of what was "right" - if you know what I mean. He was pushing hard, he was trying to be on the front front, and to see him actually hitting those forehand down-the-line shots was a joy. He's got to be feeling more confident in himself if he's going for those.

But then Fighter Rafa came back.

That's the guy we know and love, that's why we continue to do this after all this time and that's why we hang in there when he's having those dips in the rollercoaster. It came off ... and he took that opening set. But the thing is, even if he goes down, I much prefer it to be when he's trying and he's looking to make things work, rather than that backboard defensive stuff. There was so much to cheer about in that opening set. Well done Rafa.

I suppose Berlocq's attitude then became "hit harder" - not an uncommon tactic against Rafa - and he was rewarded by a break, but again, Rafa responded and Berlocq didn't win another game, in spite of what he threw at him. Great job Rafa.

There were occasions last night where I shouted out "C'mon Rafa" from my sofa. I fist-pumped a Yesssssssss, I was animated for his win ... and I can honestly say that I've not been moved in a match of Rafa's like that for a long time. Keep building on the good work Rafa, keep pushing.

He plays his great friend Pico in today's final. Here's hoping for a good match and a great Rafa. VAMOS!!