French Open: Rafael Nadal Shakes Fabio Fognini

By hugree on June 2nd, 2013

For the third time in three matches at this year’s French Open, Rafael Nadal hardly looked himself for a set. Unlike in the first two rounds, Nadal won his opening set Saturday against 27th-seeded Fabio Fognini of Italy and cruised for a 7-6 (5), 6-4, 6-4 win – his 18th straight win. The takeaway, even after another victory, was the same: The owner of a record seven titles at Roland Garros is not the dominant force he usually is at the clay-court tournament. Nadal struggled for any fluency and committed 40 unforced errors as he’s still in search for a better rhythm. “I’m very happy to be through,” he acknowledged. “I mean, we shouldn’t delude ourselves. If I can calm down I will play better; otherwise I can go back to Majorca and go fishing.” He is also appreciative at having a day off to practice today. Continue reading for the Round 3 gallery or browse the whole Roland Garros 2013 tournament gallery.