For today’s Second Service, we hear from Nadal about his plans for the grass, and Djokovic readies for a shot at a second French Open title.
Following only his third career defeat at the French Open, Nadal admitted that he was feeling low but that it was no disaster.
The Spaniard is looking ahead. On that subject, Nadal did cast doubt on his participation in Wimbledon this year.
“The body after so much struggle usually suffers a slump. Wimbledon this year is in two weeks,” he pointed out.
“It’s different from when I was 25 years old. I am 35 and you have to see how I recover in every way.
Take a look at Nadal’s full quotes here
Having overcome Nadal, Djokovic revealed that it took a monumental effort on his part to achieve such a feat at Roland Garros.
“Definitely the best atmosphere, the best match that I’ve played on centre court at Roland Garros in my career against my biggest rival,” the Serb declared.
“It’s the best match I played in Roland-Garros and in the top three ever,” he expanded.
Read Djokovic’s full comments here.
The Greek superstar is into his first Grand Slam final, and feels very grateful and privileged to be in such a position.
“I’m obviously just blessed to have the opportunity to play against the best and test myself, something that I’ve always dreamed and wished to happen one day,” Tsitsipas revealed.
Have a look at Tsitsipas’ full quotes here
On the women’s side of the tournament, Barbora Krejcikova capped of a thoroughly unexpected fortnight by defeating Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in three sets for her maiden singles Grand Slam title.
“It’s really hard to put words together right now, because I can’t believe what just happened,” the Czech expressed after her triumph.
The champion dedicated her win to late mentor and countrywoman Jana Novotna.
“It was amazing that I had a chance to meet her and she was such an inspiration for me,” Krejcikova explained.
I hope she’s happy right now, and I’m extremely happy.”
Read more of Krejcikova’s thoughts here.
So many were in disbelief about how the women’s singles turned out, including Mats Wilander and Chris Evert.
“I do think Barbora has been helped by winning doubles matches,” Wilander explained on Eurosport.
Evert continued on the unexpected nature of the result:
Evert further compared Krejcikova to compatriot to Novotna after the final.
Read Evert’s full comments here.
Last but not least, the grass season is here, and with Wimbledon just around the corner, all eyes turn to the All England Club.
News came out that tournament officials are pushing for 50% capacity for the event, as long as government restrictions allow.
In terms of who could win at SW19, Wilander is backing 39-year-old Federer.
“There are good players who have no idea how to play on that surface. There are not too many threats to him. Roger is a specialist,” the Swede said on his beliefs.
On another former Wimbledon champion, Andy Murray is set to make his tour return on grass at the Queen’s Club Championships against unpredictable Frenchman Benoit Paire.
