ARTICLES:

• Nadal Reaches Rio QFs; Fognini Advances (via ATP World Tour)

“[I’m] just trying to play my best in every single point,” said Nadal, who is looking to reach his first semi-final of 2015. “A little bit up and down, but I found a way to be through to a quarter-final. I’m happy for that.”

• Nadal wins in straights again in Rio, this time over Carreno Busta (via tennis.com)

Nadal was asked about his weight. He looks lighter and leaner, but said nothing has changed. ”I am not thinner,” he said. ”For six years my weight has been practically the same, always between 85 and 86 1/2 kilos (188-190 pounds). Before I used to play with sleeveless shirts. This makes the muscles seem like more. My physical side is about the same as always. Everything is the same. There are no changes in my life. There are no changes in my preparation.”

• Rafael Nadal’s proven therapy (via ESPN)

Clearly, clay is Nadal’s best choice for therapy, both mental and physical: Last year he won in Rio, Madrid and Roland Garros and compiled a 25-3 record on the dirt. Heading into Rio this week, Nadal had crafted the best clay-court record of the Open era at 318-24. Since 2005, he’s 291-14.

• Nadal se arremanga ante Carreño (via El Pais)

El número tres mundial, que no ha disputado ni 20 encuentros desde Wimbledon 2014, busca sobre arcilla los automatismos que le permitan reencontrarse con las victorias rutinarias y los triunfos sin épica. Ante Carreño compitió desde la consistencia, sin grandes brillos. Si gana su duelo de cuartos, contra el uruguayo Cuevas, entrará en el top-10 histórico de victorias.

PHOTOS: Rafael Nadal beats Pablo Carreño Busta to reach QFs of Rio Open

VIDEOS:

• Rio heat took its toll – Rafael Nadal admits he struggled with the conditions as he beat compatriot Pablo Carreno-Busta in straight sets to move into the Rio Open quarter-finals. (via Eurosport)
• Watch Nadal Hot Shot In Rio De Janeiro (via ATP World Tour)
• Sensational shot from Rafael Nadal at the Rio Open