AUSTRALIAN OPEN

[CR3] Rafael Nadal (ESP) vs. [CR15] Kevin Anderson (RSA)

Nadal has admitted that he is lacking confidence and many of his fans are concerned.  He was tested both physically and mentally against Tim Smyczek.  However, Anderson is a seasoned player, with a better serve and expected to be a more difficult opponent. Would Nadal be able to lift his game and get the victory?

Anderson was the better player in the first set and had numerous opportunities to break Nadal, but failed to convert. Distracted by thoughts of his missed opportunities, Anderson lost his focus serving to send the set to a tie break and was broken. Nadal easily won the second set as Anderson, still disgusted with his play in the last two games of the first set, lost his belief and his rhythm.  The third set was a bit more competitive; however, Anderson never fully regained his belief and was unable to break Nadal.  Nadal won 7-5, 6-1, 6-4 and his fans can breathe a sigh of relief, for now.

Can Nadal surprise his fans and make it to the final?