Rafael Nadal’s quarterfinal victory over Taylor Fritz at Centre Court on Wednesday evening demonstrated once again that his outstanding crossover point and ability to adapt under extreme pressure are far above average. The last competition at this level was in 2019 when the Spanish international defeated American player Sam Querrey. Nadal certainly hopes to repeat his 2010 success this year.
Taylor Fritz gave everything he had against his senior opponent. His tenacity helped him reach his third Grand Slam quarterfinal. The California native was making his All England Club debut after a tough journey. Fritz had a successful grass season, winning the Eastbourne International despite his loss to Nadal. It’s no surprise he couldn’t hold back his tears as Fritz sat in his courtside chair, internalizing his defeat.
“I’ve never felt like I could cry after a loss,” lamented Fritz, the 24-year-old rising American athlete.
Fritz came close to winning the fourth set but couldn’t finish it, and Nadal successfully defended himself by winning 3-6, 7-5, 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 (4). The match lasted 4 hours and 21 minutes, but it could have lasted much longer if a new Wimbledon rule mandating the first-to-10-point tiebreaker at 6-6 in the fifth set had not been implemented this year.
A boisterous crowd cheered the pair as they traded serve and return on Centre Court, mesmerized by the ball control on display at SW19. Not only did the audience appear to have a good time, but the duo also seemed to appreciate the very strenuous exchange of blows for an extended period of time.
However, Nadal publicly acknowledged that he considered quitting the game because the abdominal pain was too much for him.
“I enjoy a lot playing these kind of matches,” Nadal admitted. “It was a tough afternoon against a great player. It was not easy at all, I’m just very happy to be in the semi-finals. The abdominal is not going well. I had to find a way to serve a little bit different. For a moment I thought I might not be able to finish the match.” he continued.
Nadal to encounter Kyrgios in semifinals
The Spaniard stated that he would be put through some tests because his match with Fritz clearly sapped his physical endurance.
Nadal said he was going to have some more tests. “I am used to pain. It’s nothing new,” he added. “But without doubt, today was the worst day.”
Rafa has set up a semifinal clash with Nick Kyrgios in the next match, preserving his hope of completing the Grand Slam calendar. Given the pain he’s been experiencing, Nadal couldn’t guarantee his participation in Friday’s semifinals.
“I don’t know,” the reigning French Open champion said when asked if he would be ready for the match against Kyrgios. “Honestly, I can’t give you a clear answer because if I gave you a clear answer and tomorrow another thing happens, I will be a liar.” Nadal seemed uncertain about his latest condition.
If Nadal is able to compete, the crowd will undoubtedly support and cheer him on. He’ll be up against Kyrgios, a gifted but volatile player. Nadal recognizes his opponent’s strength, especially on grass, where he struggles and understands that he must be in peak physical and mental condition to defeat the Australian international.
“Nick is a great player in all the surfaces but especially here on grass,” Nadal said. “He’s having a great grass-court season. It’s going to be a big challenge. I need to be at my 100 percent to keep having chances, and that’s what I’m going to try to do.” said the 36-year-old player.