~My Sweet Spot~

Photos: can't get enough of Rafa?

2009-04-21T17:20:00.006-06:00

Here are more pictures of Rafael Nadal practicing at Barcelona:

At a promotional event/press conference with Manolo Santana:

Here's a tennis trivia question for you: who are the two tennis players from Spain who have won Wimbledon?

Is this the racket that Santana used to win Wimbledon?

Another tennis trivia question: Who did Rafael Nadal give his Wimbledon-winning racket to? Answer: Brad Gilbert

Photos: Roger & Mirka's wedding

2009-04-21T01:57:00.005-06:00

Cheer up, Federer fans! Look how gorgeous and happy Roger and Mirka were on their wedding day:

Photos: Rafa at the practice courts of Barcelona

2009-04-20T17:31:00.000-06:00

Photos: Perfect in pink

2009-04-20T15:29:00.003-06:00

Rafael Nadal has arrived in Barcelona to defend his title. I used to think that guys should never wear pink. I was wrong.

Videos: Monte-Carlo Final

2009-04-20T15:13:00.005-06:00

Novak Djokovic should be proud of winning this rally against Rafael Nadal in the final:

And here are the highlights of the entertaining match:

Photos: Rafa's 5th Monte-Carlo victory

2009-04-19T10:56:00.000-06:00

Congratulations, Rafa! And kudos to Nole for making the match competitive.

Video: Rafa's post-match interview

2009-04-18T12:38:00.000-06:00

Rafael Nadal's post-match interview after his win against Andy Murray today:

Rafa in action

2009-04-17T16:52:00.001-06:00

Video: Federer vs. Wawrinka highlights

2009-04-16T14:14:00.000-06:00

Highlights of today's Swiss battle between Roger Federer and Stanislas Wawrinka:

Summer reading for Nadal & Federer fans

2009-04-15T20:12:00.011-06:00

Summer is almost here and it's time to build your reading list. Strokes of Genius (out next month) by Sports Illustrated's senior writer Jon Wertheim is a must-read for every tennis, sports, Wimbledon, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, and Toni Nadal fan.

Tennis Channel's Steve Flink wrote a glowing review of the book:

"In his forthcoming book entitled, “Strokes of Genius” (published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, due out in book stores in the middle of May), Wertheim has not only given that glorious moment in tennis history the precise kind of literary treatment it merits, but he has done more than that. Writing with clarity and superb interpretive insight, conveying a depth of appreciation for both players that few of his peers could equal, building drama across chapter after chapter, Wertheim does a masterful job of allowing all of us to revisit an incomparable occasion. He helps readers to better understand the subtle shadings of the Federer-Nadal contest. He allows fans to remember why they were so emotionally immersed in a Centre Court epic. He reminds everyone why this clash mattered so much to both diehard aficionados as well as sports fans that rarely pay attention to tennis. "

"I have read a number of interviews previously with Uncle Toni, and in most cases he seemed reluctant to reveal much of substance. But he may well be the star of Wertheim’s book. Here he is portrayed in a different light, and it is more apparent than ever that his influence with his famous nephew has been even more far reaching than we ever knew. Moreover, Wertheim’s savvy reporting takes us into the locker room during the two rain delays, and we are drawn into some fascinating dialogue between player and mentor. As Wertheim describes the conversation between Uncle Toni and Nadal during the rain delay at 2-2 in the fifth set, a remarkable role reversal takes place as Nadal reassures his uncle and urges him to stay calm."

Read the entire review here.

Rafa & Uncle Toni interview

2009-04-15T09:55:00.001-06:00

Here's a video of Rafael Nadal's on-court interview (in English) after his match today against Juan Ignacio Chela, followed by an interview with Toni Nadal (in French). Enjoy!

The Djoker is baaack!

2009-04-14T05:00:00.001-06:00

Check out this hilarious new video of Novak Djokovic:

Love it!

Rafa almost gave me a heart attack!

2009-04-13T14:50:00.006-06:00

From a Monsters & Critics article:

"Nadal said that while he sent his personal congratulations to rival Roger Federer a few weeks ago in Miami when the Swiss number 2 announced that he will become a father in the summer, his rival's marriage over the weekend also took Nadal somewhat by surprise.

The 22-year-old Spaniard added with a straight face: 'I am thinking about that, be married and be father right now for the next years,' he said before breaking into a smile at his own joke."

Rafa, don't you ever scare me like that again! *breathes a sigh of relief*

Chocolate Rafa unveiled

2009-04-13T14:31:00.006-06:00

I'm sure a chocolate Rafael Nadal is yummier than the awful chocolate bunnies I ate yesterday, but I think it looks more like Juan Martin Del Potro. See for yourself:

You think Federer fans will be waving their "Federer is Better Than Chocolate" signs in front of the bakery's window pretty soon?

Rafa speaking French

2009-04-12T14:57:00.004-06:00

Il est très adorable, non?

Rafa and Andy at the palace court

2009-04-12T10:14:00.005-06:00

Today, the people (and tourists) of Monaco along with Prince Albert enjoyed seeing Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray playing tennis on the palace court. Here are the pictures:

Rafa: "Yo, Al!" Prince Albert: "Sup, Raf?"

"Boys, you know the rules: no punching, no kicking, no biting..."

I wonder if Rafa and Andy consulted each other on what to wear today.

I can't believe Roger didn't invite me to his wedding!

The Prince and the King of Clay

2009-04-11T11:31:00.002-06:00

King Rafael Nadal is back in Monte-Carlo. Scroll down to see pictures of His Royal Clayness with Prince Albert of Monaco, along with Feliciano Lopez, Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, and Fernando Verdasco. Hope Rafa didn't break protocol by touching the prince.

Where was Roger Federer? Oh, right...he was busy getting married!

Miss Rafa?

2009-04-09T20:55:00.005-06:00

Here's a video of Rafa training for the clay court season on his beloved island of Mallorca, with his childhood friend Tomeu Salva:

Sexy Andy

2009-04-06T14:51:00.000-06:00

A week ago I thought I would see pictures of Rafa frolicking on the beach with a bitten trophy, but Andy Murray deserved to win the tournament and he looks pretty good doing the Baywatch: Miami Edition thing. See for yourself:

Talking about Rafa's reign

2009-04-05T17:02:00.004-06:00

Roger Federer, Andy Murray, and Novak Djokovic talk about Rafael Nadal's reign as Numero Uno:

I hope this video is like a chicken soup for the soul of Rafanatics. Federer fans should be happy, too -- Roger said that he hopes their rivalry will go on for a long time, so that means Rog is planning to be around for a while, no?

Trophy time

2009-04-05T14:12:00.002-06:00

Congratulations to Andy Murray and Victoria Azarenka, Sony Ericsson Open champions 2009!

Smile, Rafa fans!

2009-04-03T14:15:00.005-06:00

Are you still nursing raw fingers, victims of yesterday's three-hour nail biter between Rafa and Del Potro? Do you feel lethargic and listless over Rafa's loss? Me too. But I'm starting to feel better now, thanks to a short yet very interesting interview published today by the French magazine L'Express (Thank you Agnes for sending it my way!).

Click here to read it in French (and enjoy the bigger version of the above picture), or you can endure my translation:

Rafael Nadal, if you were...

by Paola Genone (translated by Shinta W.)

Tennis world number one, he rolls over his opponents with his powerful topspin. Nevertheless, this 22-year-old young man is also a model of disarming simplicity. Qualities that were probably the reason for a cologne company to encourage him to start a new career: that of the muse of its new fragrance, Lanvin L’Homme Sport.

If you were…

Somewhere you can celebrate.

My island, Mallorca, where I grew up. My ancestors settled there in the 14th century! I still live there with my family in the house where I was born. My grandparents live on the ground floor, my uncle (his coach) on the second floor, my parents on the third floor, and I share the top floor with my sister, Maria Isabel.

A flaw

My strength, I don’t always succeed in keeping it under control. My grandmother watches all my matches on TV with her 80-year old friends. One of them told her: “He uses a lot of power in his shots but he does so in a very gentle way.”

A piece of music

I love Spanish pop bands like La Oreja de Van Gogh and singers like Alejandro Sanz or Julio Iglesias. Before every match, I isolate myself with my iPod. I have a ritual, before playing, I absolutely need to listen to a piece from the musical Phantom of the Opera.

A book

City of the Beasts, by Isabel Allende. I am very touched by the this author's commitment. After Pinochet was gone, she returned to Chile and she battles for the rights of her people.

A landscape to make you dream

When I was four years old, my father let me set foot on a fishing boat to take me to the other side of the island. The view of the land from the sea…there’s nothing more beautiful. When I retire from tennis, I will buy a boat to spend the rest of my days on. It would have to be a motor boat because I love speed.

An encounter you’re hoping for

Roger Federer. When I was little, I had a dream: I was standing at the bottom of this huge mountain and I looked up at the top. When I defeated Federer in January in Melbourne, in the Australian Open, I experienced an animalistic excitement. But soon after that, I felt empty and indescribably lonely, as if I no longer had a goal. For me, Federer will remain the world number one. I want to meet him again on court. I know that he can beat me.

A word that serves as a motto

Gandhi said: “I don’t like the word tolerance but could not think of a better word.”

A painting

I've become passionate about a painter of Mallorca, Ricard Chiang. He makes these very strange paintings, dark and silver, representing the forest, crucifixes, caravels...

A revolt

Success will not change my life. My room has stayed the same, my friends are still those I met at school, my girlfriend is a friend of my sister's. Holidays in Monaco or in St. Barts don’t interest me.

A piece of clothing that makes you look good

I don’t follow fashion trends but, like all the Spaniards and Italians, I do like to choose the clothes I’m going to wear. My favorite outfit: jeans, a white shirt, a tailored jacket and boots.

Djokovic's most embarrassing moment

2009-04-02T21:27:00.003-06:00

Djokovic reveals his most embarrassing moment:

Star Wars in the ATP galaxy

2009-04-02T01:44:00.007-06:00

This cracked me up:

It accompanies a French article which casts Rafael Nadal as "Rafa Skynalder", Andy Murray as "Princess Andy", Novak Djokovic as "Han Solovic", and Roger Federer as "Robi-Wan Kederer". I'm too brain-dead from lack of sleep to remember my French, so I'm not even gonna try to translate it.

Nadal vs. Wawrinka highlights

2009-04-02T01:25:00.004-06:00

I know most of you who live in the US couldn't watch the riveting Nadal vs. Wawrinka match, so here's the highlights video:

Required reading for ATP fans

2009-04-02T00:15:00.012-06:00

Wanna know why Rafa got dewy-eyed while playing golf at Indian Wells? Don't know much about Gilles Simon? Feel bad about Roddick's loss to Federer last night? Curious about who inspired Fernando Verdasco? Here are some links to excellent articles/blog entries on some of our favorite ATP boys:

Neil Hartman's golf experience with Rafael Nadal

Peter Bodo on Andy Roddick

Steve Tignor's interview with Fernando Verdasco

Dan Weil's profile of Gilles Simon

Shakira, Rafa and the ATP boys

2009-03-31T21:19:00.004-06:00

Here's a video of Shakira meeting Rafael Nadal, Feliciano Lopez, and Novak Djokovic. She also met Fernando Verdasco and Nicolas Almagro. Lucky girl.

Heard around Miami

2009-03-30T15:20:00.008-06:00

Here are some recent quotables from Andy Roddick, Roger Federer, Dinara Safina, and Ana Ivanovic:

Andy Roddick, on Rafael Nadal's improvements: "He developed a chip that gets him out of trouble a lot that no one ever really talks about. They talk about the running and heaviness, but he volleys well. He's able to transition into the court now. He's able to play returns, as evidenced by Wimbledon last year.

"No one really mentioned the fact that he was standing a foot inside the baseline and hit a return. They talk about how he stands back, but he's able to mix it up. I don't really think he gets credit for how complete of a tennis player he is. I think he kind of gets pigeon-holed into what people remember from five years ago."

Roger Federer, on girlfriend Mirka's postpartum plans: "I just think she'll drop all the stuff she's been doing so far and just become a mother, what she's always wanted to be. I don't think it's going to change a lot for what she has to do. She's been busy anyway before, so now she's busy in a different way.

"She told me she still wants to travel as much as possible. We'll see how that turns out to be. We don't know yet. I'm sure we'll find good solutions. You know, we have the financial background. You know, traveling, we can make it easy. Hotels, we can make it easy. So that's great, you know. But at the same time, I think it's the mindset that's most important. I think we both are relaxed, we're both happy and excited, and I think that's why it's going to work out."

Dinara Safina, on missing her chance to grab the No. 1 ranking: "It's very disappointing. That's what I'm playing for. I want to be there. Suddenly I go to the court, and I don't even fight for it. So it's just bad behavior from my side. The champions, they don't do this."

Ana Ivanovic , on her mental letdown during a 6-4, 4-6, 6-1 third round loss to Agnes Szavay: "It's kind of funny, because last night I couldn't really fall asleep. Now looking back, I've been thinking about my game, because like I said, I had a really good practice yesterday and I was so excited about my game and I felt really good. I thought, 'Oh, this is great.' I started already projecting the future. You know, 'This is so good. I just have to keep like this.'

"Before I knew it, it was like 12:30, 1:00 a.m. and I was still thinking about that. I was like, 'Jesus, just try to relax and try to fall asleep.' So yeah, I didn't have a good night of sleep, and you see what happens."

Rafa, Shakira, and the Iglesias boys

2009-03-30T14:22:00.013-06:00

Yesterday, Rafael Nadal met Julio Iglesias' boys (how many does he have?), and today Shakira was spotted at his match. Shakira also attended Rafa's exhibition match in Abu Dhabi in January. She had a concert in that city at that time.

Anyway, on to the tennis...Rafa didn't play his best tennis today, and his opponent, Portuguese qualifier Frederico Gil played well enough to give the Spaniard a scare, especially in the tight first set. Rafa was visibly displeased with his own performance but managed to win the match 7-5,6-3. Here are some pictures:

Rafa and Roger pictures

2009-03-29T00:31:00.006-06:00

LeeAnn e-mailed me pictures of Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer on the practice courts of Indian Wells before the semifinals. Enjoy, Fedal fans.

Thanks, LeeAnn.

Photo-ops with Venus, Andy, Ana, and Rafa

2009-03-24T12:17:00.002-06:00

Last year, Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal promoted the Sony Ericsson Open by playing tennis on water. This year, big sister Venus and Andy Murray played on top of cars in the middle of South Beach traffic and Ana Ivanovic played golf with golf addict Rafa. The South Beach pictures remind me of the movie The Birdcage...I keep looking at the background trying to find Robin Williams and Nathan Lane's apartment.

And here are Ana and Rafa's golf pictures. It looks pretty windy out there -- I hope it won't be as windy as Indian Wells.

The picture below makes me laugh. Ana looks Rafa-like with the fist pump, white capris, and sleeveless shirt. Maybe she's trying to tell Rafa that we women (and some men) miss his old attire?

Meet Maria (and maybe Dolce?)

2009-03-24T00:48:00.006-06:00

Maria Sharapova, who has been struggling with shoulder injury, has pulled out of the Sony Ericsson Open in Miami. But for those of you going to Miami this week, you can meet Masha -- she'll be signing autographs there (more info here). No confirmation yet on Dolce's appearance.

Another Russian who'll miss Miami this year is defending champion Nikolay Davydenko, who is also injured. Who can forget Kolya's one-racquet victory in the final match last year against Rafael Nadal?

I wish both players a speedy recovery. I miss watching them play, even if sometimes I have to press the mute button on my TV when Masha shrieks.

Cookies = the secret to Rafa's success?

2009-03-22T23:31:00.012-06:00

Steve Tignor wrote an interesting blog entry on his various Rafa sightings around Indian Wells, and his take on Rafa's cookie philosophy. A must-read for all certified Rafanatics and those who want to know more about Rafa's personality.

Congratulations, Rafa and Vera!

2009-03-22T22:50:00.004-06:00

Today Vera Zvonareva won her first Indian Wells title, beating last year's champion Ana Ivanovic in 7-6(5), and Rafael Nadal defeated Andy Murray 6-1, 6-2 to win his second title in the California desert, which was very windy during both matches today. Click here to read more about the finals.

Here are some pictures of the champions and runner-ups:

Mad at FSN?

2009-03-20T12:26:00.005-06:00

Many tennis fans are mad as hell at FSN for their terrible coverage of Indian Wells. FSN bumped the Rafael Nadal vs. David Nalbandian match for a hockey documentary, and it looks like today Rafa's topspin-induced ball revolution against Juan Martin del Potro won't be televised either. FSN is on my enemy list now.

Pissed? Me too. FSN will also cover Miami, so let's tell Fox what we think before things get worse: e-mail Fox here.

Rafa saving match points, FSN sucks

2009-03-20T12:12:00.006-06:00

Here's a video of Rafael Nadal saving match points against David Nalbandian, in case you missed the midnight madness. Many people did, because the geniuses at Fox Sports Network bumped this match for a hockey documentary. I would probably understand if it was a live hockey game, but a documentary! I had to frantically get a live stream link to watch it. How could any sane TV channel bump a match involving the #1 tennis player in the world?

This afternoon, Andy Roddick will play against Novak Djokovic followed by Rafa against Juan Martin del Potro. Winners will be in the semifinal. For those of you in the States, I'm not sure if *%^$@ FSN will show the Rafa vs. Del Potro match, so try to find free live stream links just in case.

The mentalist

2009-03-19T19:33:00.008-06:00

After watching last night/this morning's match between Rafael Nadal and David Nalbandian, I'm convinced that at this moment there is no other player who is as mentally strong as Rafa. I must admit that when he was trailing 3-5 in the second set after losing the first set, I already gave up. But not Rafa.

Rafa's mental strength inspired Victoria Azarenka, who won her match against Dinara Safina right before Rafa and Nalby took the court. She said:

"The image I had in my head there was actually (Rafa) Nadal, the way he plays all the time," Azarenka said, explaining her come back in the third set. No matter what, he fights. I think his mentality, for me, it is the best mentality anybody has ever had. I was just trying to fight as good as him, and it was pretty good for me."

Vamos Rafa!

Rafa getting mobbed

2009-03-15T04:28:00.004-06:00

They should hire more security guards to follow Rafael Nadal (I know many Rafanatics, myself included, who would volunteer to do the job for free) at Indian Wells. Not just for his safety but for his fans. Check out this video:

Seeing double

2009-03-14T10:09:00.007-06:00

Rafael Nadal and Marc Lopez won their first round doubles match at Indian Wells yesterday. Roger "Daddy" Federer is also playing doubles, not with Stanislas Wawrinka (who's playing with Richard "Baby Federer" Gasquet), but with Yves Allegro. A Nadal-Federer doubles showdown could happen if Nadal/Lopez can get through their second round opponents of Federer/Allegro and if Federer/Allegro beat the Bryans.

David Nalbandian and Juan Martin del Potro have also teamed up to play doubles. Hopefully this means that they have put their disagreements aside.

And here are some Rafa doubles pictures for the Rafanatics: (if you're new to tennis, Rafa is the one wearing a blue bandanna)

Roger is going to be a daddy!

2009-03-12T11:55:00.003-06:00

Roger Federer announced on his website that he and longtime girlfriend Mirka Vavrinec will become parents this summer. Congratulations!

The happy armada

2009-03-09T15:33:00.005-06:00

Here's a video of the Spanish Davis Cup team celebrating after Rafael Nadal clinched the armada's victory by defeating Novak Djokovic in the fourth rubber yesterday:

Djokovic is still the Djoker

2009-03-08T10:50:00.007-06:00

Click here to watch a video of Novak Djokovic pulling down his shorts during today's Davis Cup match against Rafael Nadal. I thought he was gonna do another Rafa impression right there in front of 14,000 Spaniards! It's good to see that Nole hasn't lost his sense of humor.

Today Rafa is still King of Clay, winning the match 6-4, 6-4, 6-1, but like Nole, he made many uncharacteristic errors. I think Nole played better than he did in yesterday's match against Ferrer, but today's match quality wasn't nearly as good as their Hamburg semifinal match last year:

The two boys and their fellow Davis Cup team members will fly to Indian Wells tomorrow or Tuesday. Perhaps the Djoker will get his revenge there; he beat Nadal in the semifinal last year, producing this lost-my-racquet-but-still-won-the-point shot:

Victory pictures

2009-03-08T10:32:00.005-06:00

Note to self for Davis Cup Sunday

2009-03-07T19:08:00.012-07:00

Dear Self, please remember to do the following things:

1. Set alarm clock to 10:00 a.m. Benidorm time (2:00 a.m. my time) to watch Rafa vs. Nole, which may or may not be followed by Ferru vs. Tipsy.

2. Don't scream too loud while watching (the neighbors are always cranky and drunk)

3. Get the exercise mat from under the bed, dust it off, and start doing sit-ups and crunches.

Enjoy Davis Cup Sunday, everyone! (and try to stop staring at Rafa's abs)

A beautiful day at Benidorm

2009-03-07T10:55:00.015-07:00

Waiting at Benidorm

2009-03-06T16:49:00.006-07:00

The Davis Cup tie between Spain and Serbia has been postponed to tomorrow due for wind damage. Judging from the picture below, it looks pretty bad...

The delay doesn't seem to dampen the mood of both teams. Rafa, Nole, and Nenad are all smiles on the practice courts...

and Rafa's happy to get more time to text me...I mean Xisca...

I hope the wind won't return to Benidorm ever. Of all the Davis Cup ties this weekend, this is the one I (and many other tennis fans) want to watch the most!

Spain vs. Serbia draw

2009-03-05T15:14:00.004-07:00

Here's a video of the draw ceremony followed by short interviews with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic:

So here's the schedule:

Friday
David Ferrer ESP) v Novak Djokovic (SRB)
Rafael Nadal (ESP) v Janko Tipsarevic (SRB)

Saturday
Feliciano Lopez/Tommy Robredo (ESP) v Novak Djokovic/Nenad Zimonjic (SRB)

Sunday
Rafael Nadal (ESP) v Novak Djokovic (SRB)
David Ferrer (ESP) v Janko Tipsarevic (SRB)

Boys just wanna have fun (and win!)

2009-03-04T16:00:00.004-07:00

Check out this video of Rafael Nadal and Nicolas Almagro teaming up against Feliciano Lopez and Tommy Robredo in practice. The boys also signed autographs for kids.

Spain vs. Serbia press conference

2009-03-04T08:45:00.002-07:00

Here's a short video of Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic speaking at the Davis Cup press conference. It's nice to hear Nole speaking in his native tongue; I don't get to hear that often.

Caption this!

2009-03-03T09:23:00.002-07:00

These pictures from the Benidorm practice courts are just begging for captions:

Davis Cup trailer

2009-03-03T09:10:00.003-07:00

Here's a Davis Cup trailer (starring Rafael Nadal) shown on Spanish TV:

Nice, huh? I bet they have DC trailers in Serbia, too, and most of Serbia will be watching. It makes me sad that there's less fanfare for this event here in the States. It's not on Versus channel anymore, so people without the Tennis Channel can't watch it. And no, we don't have trailers for Davis Cup.

The Armada at Benidorm

2009-03-02T17:09:00.007-07:00

Here's a short video of the Armada training at Benidorm. Where is Tommy Robredo ?

And here are more practice pictures of Rafael Nadal, Feliciano Lopez, David Ferrer, and Albert Costa, the Spanish team's new captain.

Rafa and Feli in Benidorm

2009-03-01T15:03:00.004-07:00

Rafael Nadal and Feliciano Lopez arrived in Benidorm yesterday to begin training for the Davis Cup tie against Serbia next week. Here are some pictures:

Rafa the Real Madrid fan

2009-02-25T17:49:00.004-07:00

Today Rafael Nadal flew from Mallorca to Madrid to attend the Real Madrid vs. Liverpool match. I saw his father Sebastian and his sister Maribel on TV, but I didn't see Rafa. I did, however, find these pictures of him having a good time at the match while looking absolutely gorgeous:

Real Madrid lost, by the way. :(

Ready for Spain vs. Serbia?

2009-02-24T17:24:00.004-07:00

The clay court/stadium in Benidorm, Spain is almost ready for the March 6th-8th first round Davis Cup tie between Spain and Serbia. Check it out:

The stadium looks huge, and the atmosphere is gonna be crazy like usual. I can't wait!!!

Scent of a champion

2009-02-23T12:41:00.003-07:00

Rafael Nadal is the new face of a Lanvin cologne.

*runs to the nearest mall, ignoring the recession*

Rafa's American accent

2009-02-22T22:23:00.002-07:00

I love Rafael Nadal's Spanish accent, but his American accent ain't bad either:

Rotterdam final

2009-02-15T13:25:00.003-07:00

In today's Rotterdam final against Andy Murray, Rafael Nadal suffered a right knee injury in the beginning of the 2nd set but he managed to win the set 6-4. However, his pain seemed to get worse; he could barely run in the 3rd set and Murray easily won the set and the match. The score was 3-6, 6-4, 0-6. The boys had nice things to say to each other during the trophy ceremony:

And here are some pictures:

Congratulations, Andy...and rest well, Rafa.

Who needs a Valentine when there's Rafa?

2009-02-14T10:19:00.003-07:00

Today I got my Valentine gift: Rafael Nadal beat Gael Monfils in the semifinal of Rotterdam. Rafa will play Andy Murray in the final tomorrow at 8:30 am EST (2:30 pm Rotterdam time). Click here to watch the match.

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone. Enjoy this video of Rafamania in Rotterdam:

A Boombastic video

2009-02-13T15:48:00.000-07:00

Rafael Nadal, A.K.A. Mr. Boombastic:

Rafa doesn't like cheese, no?

2009-02-11T22:43:00.000-07:00

Here's a video of Rafael Nadal's on-court interview after his win against Simone Bolelli today in Rotterdam. He was presented with a treat:

Jankovic unhappy with Federer's comment

2009-02-10T15:58:00.000-07:00

In a recent interview, Jelena Jankovic said she's not happy about Roger Federer's comments about her and Novak Djokovic. During the Australian Open, Federer said that players who haven't won a Grand Slam should not be No.1 (he added "no disrespect to Jelena Jankovic") , and he also commented on Novak Djokovic's retirement in the match against Andy Roddick: "I'm almost in favour of saying, you know what, if you're not fit enough, just get out of here."

Hmm...I know that Federer always wants to set the highest standard for tennis, but he shouldn't have mentioned Jankovic's name. And Djokovic does have a poor retirement record, but during that match the organizers should've closed the roof. They did when Serena played, didn't they?

Rafa in Rotterdam

2009-02-09T20:01:00.000-07:00

Rafael Nadal is now playing at the ABN Amro Tournament in Rotterdam. Here's a short video of his doubles match and a bit from his press conference:

Rafa's funny press conferences

2009-02-08T22:20:00.000-07:00

I wanna be Rafa's mascot, too!

2009-02-07T16:17:00.000-07:00

The following clip is from last year's Masters Series Hamburg, before the Rafael Nadal vs. Potito Starace match began:

So cute!

Now that Hamburg has been demoted, I wonder if Rafa and Roger will play there this year (I haven't checked their tournament calendar yet). Both will remember this tournament, because it was here that Federer won his first Masters Series shield and where he ended Nadal's 81-match clay court winning streak.

Rafa the storyteller?

2009-02-06T20:21:00.000-07:00

After winning the Australian Open, Rafael Nadal flew back home to Mallorca, did photo and video shoots for some commercials, spent an hour chatting with fans, and reading to the children in his hometown of Manacor. This weekend he'll be in Rotterdam to play yet another tournament. Dang, when will this guy get some rest?

Check out this video of Rafa reading to the kids:

Wanna chat with Rafa? And win his racquet?

2009-02-04T22:58:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow, Thursday February 5th, Babolat is sponsoring a chat with Rafael Nadal (with live pictures) and a chance to win his racquet. Click here to register.

Australian Open trophy ceremony

2009-02-02T07:37:00.000-07:00

Rafa & Roger: rivals and comrades

2009-02-01T20:27:00.000-07:00

"It was an emotional moment, and I think this also lifts up sport, to see a great champion like Federer expressing his emotions. It shows his human side. But in these moments, when you see a rival, who is also a comrade, feeling like this, you enjoy the victory a little bit less."~Rafael Nadal, after winning the Australian Open final against Roger Federer

I cried so match before, during, and after the final match. I love this game, this rivalry, and the drama!

Rafa's post-match interview on ESPN

2009-02-01T20:18:00.000-07:00

Rafa's forehand in slow motion

2009-01-31T11:32:00.000-07:00

Good morning, class. Welcome to Rafael Nadal Forehand Appreciation 101. Some of you are beginning tennis fans, and some of you, like myself, are taking this course simply because we can't get enough of Rafa. Now let's take a look at the two kinds of forehand he uses.

The "bolo", "buggy-whip", forehand that generates a zillion spin, mostly used on clay courts

The more traditional, across the body, flatter forehand that generates more velocity, mostly used on hard courts:

Now go to the court and practice, and don't forget your homework for tonight: watch the Aussie Open final and root for Rafa!

Nadal-Federer videos

2009-01-31T10:59:00.000-07:00

Here are some Nadal-Federer videos to get you pumped up for the Aussie Open final tonight!

"Honor and Opposition" (a video on the binary nature of their rivalry):

ESPN trailer:

A montague of all their matches up to Wimbledon 2008:

Nadal vs. Verdasco highlights

2009-01-30T20:26:00.000-07:00

I'll never get tired of watching this:

Marathon men (Nadal & Verdasco) in pictures

2009-01-30T18:27:00.000-07:00

Last night's marathon match between Rafael Nadal and Fernando Verdasco was unbelievable. I have no words for it, so just enjoy the pictures:

Nadal and Verdasco pre-match

2009-01-29T17:04:00.000-07:00

Rafael Nadal and Fernando Verdasco on Eurosport:

Video: Rafa steals towels and shows off biceps

2009-01-28T23:07:00.000-07:00

Here's Rafael Nadal's on-court interview after his match against Gilles Simon:

Nadal vs. Simon in pictures

2009-01-28T18:36:00.001-07:00

I thoroughly enjoyed last night's quarterfinal matches, especially the one between Rafael Nadal (my fave Spaniard) and Gilles Simon (my fave Frenchie). I'm happy that Rafa won, and I've always loved Simon's backhand and fighting spirit. If you haven't seen Simon play before, I recommend watching all his matches at last year's Madrid Masters.

Federer on Roddick and Djokovic

2009-01-27T20:34:00.000-07:00

Here's what Roger Federer said about Andy Roddick and Novak Djokovic after Djokovic retired during his match against Roddick:

"I think Andy forced him also. If Novak were up two sets to Love I don't think he would have retired 4‑Love down in the fourth. Thanks to Andy that he retired in the end. Andy pushed him to the limits. Hats off to Andy."

Rafa's on-court interview

2009-01-25T00:22:00.000-07:00

Rafael Nadal's on-court interview with Jim Courier after his match against Tommy Haas:

My favorite fan sign

2009-01-24T18:42:00.001-07:00

I'll definitely bring this sign (or have the words immortalized on my t-shirt) when I go see Rafael Nadal, Feliciano Lopez, Fernando Verdasco, Carlos Moya, or David Ferrer play. Someday...*sighs*

Nadal vs. Haas highlights

2009-01-24T18:16:00.000-07:00

Highlights of the Rafael Nadal vs. Tommy Haas 3rd round match at the Australian Open:

Rafa Nadal
by yedekcoz

Rafa's 3rd round match in pictures

2009-01-24T15:22:00.001-07:00

For my fellow Rafanatics, here are some of my favorite pictures of Rafa's 3rd round match against Tommy Haas. Enjoy!

Rafa's short interview after Haas match

2009-01-24T13:04:00.000-07:00

Here's a clip of Rafael Nadal being interviewed by Darren Cahill right after his win over Tommy Haas:

Rafa's new look: yea or nay?

2009-01-22T23:46:00.001-07:00

Rafael Nadal debuted his new look at the Australian Open: he now wears shorter shorts and sleeved (gasp!) shirts!

Here's the daytime ensemble:

and the nighttime ensemble:

I'm still trying to get used to not seeing his arms in their glorious entirety, but this new look is growing on me. I like the night colors better -- LOVE the black socks and shoes -- but the daytime colors make him look too young and less intimidating. I want him to look menacing!

What do you think? Yea or Nay?

Rafa talks about his new clothes

2009-01-22T18:20:00.001-07:00

From a press conference at the Australian Open:

Obamania reaches Down Under

2009-01-21T18:30:00.000-07:00

From Nation News:

MELBOURNE – James Blake had two reasons to celebrate yesterday: his first-round win at the Australian Open, and the inauguration of the first African-American president of the United States.

"I'm always proud to say I'm an American, but I'm going to be especially proud at 4 a.m. here," said Blake, who eased to a 6-4, 6-3, 7-5 decision over Canadian Frank Dancevic.
"It's going to be . . . a very significant presidency to have the first African American in power. Hopefully it will knock down more doors."

The ninth-seeded American – son of a black father and white mother, as is President Barack Obama – said the new president was the best qualified to bring needed change to the country.

"We're in some situations that are less than ideal in our country," Blake said. "I think if there's any man for the job that's ahead of him that can deal with the tasks and the pressures of being president in this tumultuous time, it's Barack Obama."

Blake, who said he donated money to Obama's campaign, was unlikely to watch the inauguration live in the early hours Australian time but said his TiVo at home in Tampa, Florida, was already set to record it.

He was not the only American in Melbourne who was interested in the ceremony back home. Serena Williams said she got "chill bumps" on her arm as she watched TV coverage of pre-inauguration events before her match.

"This is an amazing moment for American history," she said. "I'm a big fan of African-American history, learning my roots so I can be a better person. You just look at all the things that we've come through. Now to have this opportunity is amazing."

Wanna get closer to Rafa?

2009-01-18T19:31:00.001-07:00

Rafael Nadal is blogging and answering fan questions from the Australian Open. Check out the blog and send your questions. He answers some unusual questions, like about sex and wedgies. Bet you can't get those answers at a press conference! So why are you still here? Go to his blog...NOW!

Rafa's photoshoot

2009-01-17T16:18:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of Rafael Nadal at a photoshoot for Nike. "V" for victory?

Nadal talks about Murray

2009-01-17T13:31:00.000-07:00

Here's a video of Rafael Nadal's press conference in which he talks about Andy Murray's chance of winning the Australian Open:

Practice video

2009-01-16T19:55:00.000-07:00

Here's a short video of Rafael Nadal, Marat Safin, James Blake, and Ana Ivanovic practicing on the blue courts of Melbourne:

More Melbourne practice pictures

2009-01-15T18:50:00.000-07:00

Enjoy.

Free livestream from Kooyong

2009-01-14T21:24:00.000-07:00

Click here to watch a free, good quality livestream from Kooyong. I'm watching Federer vs. Verdasco right now.

Rafa's Melbourne practice video

2009-01-14T15:40:00.000-07:00

Here's a short video of Rafael Nadal practicing in Melbourne. The sound of the racquet hitting the ball is a lot louder in the empty Rod Laver arena. Ahh...music to my ears.

Rafa and Roger training together?

2009-01-13T21:25:00.000-07:00

In this video it looks like Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer practiced together in Melbourne, but I'm not sure. The video is in Catalan, so if you speak it, please let me know what it says.

Melbourne practice pictures

2009-01-12T23:59:00.000-07:00

Can't wait for the Australian Open to begin? Hungry for some Grand Slam action? Try these pictures for appetizers:Rafael Nadal and Andy Roddick practicing on the blue courts of Melbourne. Enjoy.

Rafanatics rejoice!

2009-01-09T14:58:00.000-07:00

Today Rafa bit his first trophy of the year!

The Spanish team of Marc Lopez and Rafael Nadal defeated top seeds and 2008 ATP World Tour Champions Daniel Nestor and Nenad Zimonjic 4-6, 6-4, 10-8, in today's doubles championship at the Qatar ExxonMobil Open in Doha.

Lopez,who was playing with Nadal for the first time, said, "I would like to thank Rafa for giving me the opportunity to play with him and win my first ATP title."

Nadal, who won his fifth career ATP World Tour doubles title in eight finals, added, "It was disappointing to lose in the singles yesterday so I feel a bit better having won the doubles. Daniel and Nenad are the best team in the world and they were tough to beat today."

Free livestream from Doha

2009-01-07T12:35:00.000-07:00

Click here to watch a free, good quality livestream from Doha. Enjoy!

Murray vs. Nadal highlights

2009-01-04T18:17:00.000-07:00

Here's a video of the Abu Dhabi final match between Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray:

Rafa's training video

2008-12-23T14:10:00.000-07:00

Check out this video of Rafael Nadal training in Mallorca, wearing a sleeved (gasp!) shirt similar to what he'll wear at the Australian Open:

I wish Rafa would post pictures and videos of his training like Andy Murray does at his website.

Before Rafa was famous

2008-12-20T17:56:00.000-07:00

Here's a video of a pre-fame Rafael Nadal in Miami back in 2004 (the year he and Roger Federer first played against each other):