Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters, Monaco
Men’s Final: [5] Rafael Nadal (ESP) vs. [16 ] Gael Monfils (FRA)
I was on pins and needles the entire match. Monfils is a brilliant shot maker and he had his chances to win this match; however, Nadal is a brilliant strategist and he used every ounce of his clay court experience to get the better of Monfils.
The tennis was phenomenal. Both players pushed the other to bring out their best tennis. Monfils appeared to have stolen the momentum after he won the second set; yet, Nadal was not about to lose this match without a fight.
After a second bathroom break, Nadal came back focused, determined to claim this victory. He was relentless and pushed Monfils from side to side. The third set was the result of Nadal wearing Monfils down in the two previous sets. If Monfils had just a little more determination, perhaps he would have won with his amazing shot making; however, he could not sustain that level throughout. He made Nadal work for the victory. I hope Nadal appreciated my cheering him on loudly amongst the French crowd. Nadal won 7-5, 5-7, 6-0 and claimed his 9th Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters 1000 title.
Could this be the impetus to a better season for Nadal? Can he build on this and win his 10th Roland Garros title? There were more signs of the vintage Nadal in this tournament than I have seen for a while. Dare we hope that he has put his worries behind him or is it still too soon to tell?
Nice!
This was one hell of a match!! Both players played their butts off!! I am so happy for Rafa for his win and at the same time, I’m so sorry that Gael faded away in the 3rd set; he really is an awesome talent. I’d also like to thank Novak Djokovic for falling apart and making his exit in the 2nd round of the tournament. Had he still been alive, I dare say we might have seen a different ending. Is this the return of “vintage” Rafa?? As I said previously, God I hope so!! However, I do think it’s a little too soon to tell. I am holding my breath until we see what comes next. VAMOS RAFA!!
P.S. Great pics!!