In the 2014 edition of the Australian Open Final, Stan Wawrinka was pounding an uninjured Nadal like a drum in the first two sets before Nadal's sudden injury to his back. He was simply overpowering Rafa from both wings, similar to Soderling at the French Open. Nadal had no answers and probably tried to do more than his body could take and unfortunately strained something.
Nadal got some painkillers and recovered enough to hang in there in the 3rd and eventually take it, while Stan's level went down dramatically due to playing a visibly injured player. This happens at all levels about 90% of the time if not more. It's natural, most normal people don't like beating up someone who is hurt. One doesn't know if Stan would have taken it in straight sets without the injury, though likely, he might have been nervous to claim his first major title.
It took about a set for Stan to finally reset himself. It actually probably helped him to focus when Nadal looked better. Then in the 4th set, Wawrinka got back close to his previous form, but was a little nervous when he realized he had a great chance to win. But then he realized he had it on his racquet as Nadal was still having trouble on serve, and he managed to get his level back enough to carry him over the finish line over his reeling opponent.
It was a good match until the injury. Then it was a huge mental struggle for Wawrinka to deal with Nadal's MTO/injury and this unfortunately caused the level of the match to drop.
Congratulations to first time Slam winner Mr. Stanislas Wawrinka, his team, and his fans!
Condolences to Mr. Rafael Nadal, his staff, and supporters. Best wishes for improved health in recovery.
Respectfully,
masterclass
