So any time Rafa gets down like this. On any surface. But especially on clay, I always wonder, is there a hole too big for Rafa. I mean. Rafa could still find another level I'm sure. But he will definitely need some help from Fognini. But. It could happen in an instant. And the momentum would shift and Rafa would be off to the races. At this point Fognini will progressively start to feel the pressure to close it out the closer he gets. And Rafa will probably find a way to apply the pressure. Just settle in and try to stop missing is the most likely thing I imagine.
Definitely hope to see Fognini finish it out. He's answered a couple of poor points here with solid points to keep it at 30-30. And Nadal missed another forehand long. So he hasn't quite decided on the no missing strategy I guess. Which perhaps he feels he can't. With Fognini reeling off winners with the ease of .... well, Nadal.
Another long forehand and Fognini has 4-love. I'd love to say all he needs is 2 out of the next 4. But. Again. I always feel that Nadal can just, out of no where put an end to his opponent's good fortune. And of course Fognini, of all people, can just get bothered by something and go off it. BUT NOT THAT TIME. My goodness ANOTHER backhand up the line winner. He's been so good all week and just has not lost that at all. Playing some of the best tennis we've seen from him in a long time. And that with an apparent elbow injury. And I think he's mentioned ankle issues too.
