Roger Federer maintains that his notable record of 23 consecutive semi finals was striking also because that means that he was injury-free for long time.
This is a good concept. Playing a Grand Slam means a huge physical effort for men in terms of number of matches and length (playing a best of 5 tennis match at that level is not for sissies).
Nadal knows it. The strange thing is that he had a very easy ride in the tournament so far: he did not lose a set and all matches he played were not really demanding from a physical point of view.
But unfortunately Rafa was unlucky this time. Apparently he pulled the hamstring of his left leg at the very beginning of the opening set. He took a medical time-out after 3 games and it was clear that there was a problem .. a big one.
On the other side Ferrer was playing very well and as soon as he understand that his friend and fellow countryman was in trouble he went for the jugular.
Demonstrating once again to be a great warrior, Nadal tried to fight back, but he had no answer. Eventually he capitulated 6-4 6-2 6-3.
With a great fair-play Ferrer said: ‘Well it’s not easy you no because Rafael is a gentleman and he was playing injury because we are friendly and I had luck. I think my game I play aggressive. I would try to go to the net, and you know but if Rafael was injury no was not normally won in three sets no? Is one victory for me but is not like a victory really.’
Ferrer will play the semi-final against Andy Murray.
It’s was heartbreaking seeing the World Nr.1 in tears, but in tennis like in life there are good and bad moments, you need to cope with both of them.
There will be no ‘Rafa-slam’ this time… let’s hope for the future.
All the best to Rafa.
