Rolex Paris Masters, France
[1] Rafael Nadal (ESP) vs. [15] Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP)
How many times have you heard, “When you have the top guys against the rope, don’t blink and for Pete’s sake, keep the pressure on”?
Carreno Busta Could Not Stop His Comeback
Carreno Busta appeared to have taken control of the match after securing the first set. Nadal was not playing well, to be blunt. He was broken in the first set with a loose forehand error. Yet, Nadal fans know by now that indoor courts are not his favorite and he is often vulnerable against quality opponents.
Nadal Looking For 1st Paris Title
Carreno Busta looked ready to win his first match against Nadal; then suddenly, things changed. What happened and why? When you play against Nadal, it does not matter the surface, he does not quit on himself. Opponents relax to their peril. Was that what happened to Carreno Busta today? Probably a mixture of doubts creeping in and Nadal elevating his game at a critical junction.
Nadal Pulls Off Another Comeback
Whatever the reasons, the number one seed pulled off his second three-set comeback at this tournament. He was against the ropes in his first match against another fellow Spaniard and he fought back again today to claim the 4-6, 7-6, 6-1 victory. With the victory, Nadal maintains his perfect record against his countryman (7:0).
Now he awaits the victor of the match between [4] Alexander Zverev and Stan Wawrinka. Nadal will not be happy to face either opponent; yet he is the consummate champion, and he will fight for his opportunity to claim his first Rolex Paris Masters’ title.
Troubling News About Zverev
I was saddened to hear that our spotlight player has been allegedly accused of “domestic violence” by a former girlfriend. If he is indeed found guilty, he will no longer be our spotlight player because I do not condone violence of any sort.
SOURCE OF IMAGES: Getty Images (Jean Catuffe: Rafael Nadal)
