ARTICLES:
… Rafael Nadal, Maria Sharapova, Roger Federer, Andy Murray and Juan Martin del Potro are all up on Day 4 of the Australian Open, where once again the thermometers will read in the triple digits for most of the day.
- Rafael Nadal vs Thanasi Kokkinakis Preview – Australian Open 2R (via stevegtennis.com)
… While Kokkinakis is undoubtedly brimming with talent and potential, his lack of experience against high-ranked opponents, particularly on a Grand Slam stage, will certainly be his disadvantage come Thursday evening. Nadal is far too experienced on this stage and will apply the necessary pressure to trouble Thanasi before eventually dismantling him in straight sets.
- 2014 Australian Open: How Intense Heat in Melbourne Will Affect the Tournament (via bleacherreport.com)
… Could the Heat Favor Nadal? Spanish superstar Nadal grew up playing clay-court matches under the sun. If he was not born to endure the heat, he has often shown greater strength than his opponents. It also helps the technicalities to his method of attack. Nadal likes to hit heavy topspin, which bounces higher in the heat. It also allows the ball to speed along quicker, thereby giving him both more margin of error and power to his shots.
- Rafael Nadal Jokes He’ll Hire John McEnroe As His Next Coach! (via tennis-x.com)
… Taking a cue from fellow rivals Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray who have all added tennis legends to their coaching circles, Rafael Nadal joked last night that he’ll continue the trend by maybe hiring John McEnroe. “Well, I am thinking with McEnroe for me now,” he said with a smile yesterday. “No, seriously for me, I believe in the continuation of the things, something long time work. So my team is the same since I start. I never fired out no one in my career of my team. That is something that I am proud of.
- Reflections: Australian Open Day 3 (via The Slice)
PHOTOS: Rafael Nadal in practice at Australian Open on Wednesday
VIDEOS:
- Australian Open 2014 – Rafael Nadal Interview & Practice
- The “Happy Slam” – One thing is for sure, players love coming to Melbourne. The Australian Open is not only the first Grand Slam of the season, but it is also known as the “Happy Slam” due to it’s summer vibe and eclectic fan base.
- Game, Set and Mats: Fans on Nadal – Check out what the Australian public thought of Rafael Nadal’s shortened win over injured Bernard Tomic.
- Rafael Nadal Crushing Forehands in Slow Motion
- Hot stuff on the practice courts – 2014 Australian Open
ICYMI: What time is Rafa Nadal on? Where can you watch the match?
Photos: @Beau27 and @zoejrogers
Rafa that’s the best coach you can ever think about if you need a coach and John loves you so much! He believes in you I listen to him when you are down a set or a break he’s so positive you will dig yourself out of trouble. John the best for you!
Yeah. Not long now but there is a post saying that play may be suspended due to the extreme heat. Is that true? Thanks. Look forward to your updates.