Spain's Rafael Nadal maintains high confidence of chalking up another victory on the red-clay courts of the French Open in Paris.
The young Spaniard is heavily favored to be victorious in the 128-man draw, but tennis fans are eager to see another battle between Nadal and the world's No. 1 Roger Federer.
If the defending three-time champion Nadal wins, he'll strong-arm his way to an elite group of players. Only Bjorn Borg has achieved four French Open titles in a row (1978-81) back in the days of wooden racquets.
Keep in mind Federer barely lost 7-5, 7-5 to Nadal a few just a few weeks ago in Monte Carlo.
Federer's looking to prove something to the naysayers about his performance on clay. Federer must hate it when critics (usually writers who also happen to be club players) say he cannot control the play on clay. Just a note: Retired American Pete Sampras raised numerous trophies on the grass-courts of Wimbledon, but never at the French. Does this mean he can't play on clay too? Don't be ridiculous, bordering stupid.
Back on Nadal.
The bothersome rain delays this week infuriate officials, players and the fans, but the extra time away from the court must be an advantage for Nadal.
He suffered a loss to Juan Carlos Ferrero after three sets in Rome. A close up by the television crew revealed the painful blisters on Nadal's feet, which delivered the punishing reality of the schedule of professionals on the circuit, which is another story.
Any type of delay, irritating as it may seem, is an advantage for ailing players.
After Wednesday's play, the young Spaniard improved to 22-0 at the French Open. The loss to Ferrero was Nadal's second from 110 matches he's played on clay.
Nadal's not close to slowing down on his game and the blustery conditions of Paris won't keep him from rubbing elbows with the likes of Borg.
Catch the results at rolandgarros.com.