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Its the first round of the French Open, and when talking about the French Open, you really expect Rafael Nadal to go through easily atleast till the quarters without a score. Well, this year is going to be a bit different. Nadal, in his opening match at this year’s even survived a 4 hour 5 setter duel against American John Isner. The reign for supremacy of Nadal at the French Open, given Djokovic’s amazing run of form, may be in danger.
The Spaniard and current World Number 1 eventually defeated the World Number 39 6-4 6-7(2) 6-7(2) 6-2 6-4 after 4 hours of amazing tennis. What this win does is that it gives confidence to the likes of Murray and co who are in the Spaniard’s half of the draw that he is beatable at Roland Garros. Murray on the other hand had it easy when he defeated qualifier Eric Prodon 6-4 6-1 6-3. John Isner also became the first person to take Nadal to five sets in Paris. Nadal has lost just one match, a four setter against Robin Soderling in 39 matches at the French Open he has been in.
Isner was in his best service mode, and was serving ferociously and Nadal had it give it his all as he played some shocking winners, and some amazing and risky passing shots. The stamina of Nadal reigned as he stunned Isner with his strokeplay in the final two sets which the Spaniard easily won. Isner summed it up when he was asked about it.
“What it came down to is the way he played in the fourth and fifth sets,” Isner said. “I haven’t seen tennis like that ever. That’s why he’s No1 in the world and one of the greatest players ever.”
When asked about the problems he was facing, Nadal admitted there had been a few “disasters” in recent months. “I have been making these mistakes over the last few months. I accept this,” the Spaniard said. “Once you accept there is a problem, you can face the problem and find solutions. Right now … I don’t think this will happen again.”
Nadal next faces compatriot Pablo Andujar in the second round, and will most definitely have an easier time on court. John Isner also reminded us of the marathon 11 hr 5min win against Nicolas Mahut at Wimbledon last year. That was a victory built on the sort of grit and determination Nadal needed here.
The French Open this year is very interesting, with no clear favorite in the Men’s category like there has been for so many years. Long matches, true test of stamina, and some stunning shots. This is what the Roland Garros is made of.
