Did you really think that someone could stop Rafael Nadal from getting to 2018 French Open final? It could well be renamed to “Rafael Nadal and challengers” tournament since we see the same scene almost every year. Tennis players from all over the world come to Roland Garros, overcome numerous obstacles but eventually have to face Nadal and they rarely stand a chance.
This time, Rafael Nadal faced fifth-seeded Juan Martin del Potro in the 2018 French Open semi-finals on Friday and it didn’t even look fair. Nadal won all three sets, 6-4, 6-1, 6-2, and booked his place in the final for the 11th time. Spaniard, who is currently No.1 tennis player in the world, has a chance to win his 11th French Open title, since he advanced to the final 10 times before and won each time.
His opponent, No.8 tennis player in the world, Austrian Dominic Thiem, faced 72nd-ranked Marco Cecchinato in the semi-final match and booked his place in the final with 7-5, 7-6 (10), 6-1 win. This was Thiem’s third consecutive French Open semi-final match but first, win. As a matter of fact, this will be the first time for Thiem to advance in final of any Grand Slam tournament.
Despite facing a rather inexperienced opponent, Nadal was full of respect.
“He’s an amazing player,” – said Nadal of Thiem. “He’s a player with big power. He’s playing with big confidence. … I know I have to play at my best. I know I have to improve a little bit.“
Thiem spoke about Nadal in a similar manner but said he isn’t afraid to take on the challenge.
“He’s a big favorite against everybody,” – said Thiem of Nadal. “Still, I know how to play against him. I have a plan.”
2018 French Open final is scheduled to take place on Sunday, June 10.
