TENNIS HAS MOVED TO THE USA - INDIAN WELLS

Rafael Nadal defeated Novak Djokovic of Serbia
6-4 6-4 6-1
in Benidorm
Davis Cup
March 8, 2009

Greatness of Nadal the difference

Source

Greatness in sport is often hard to spot when it’s happening. It often takes a while for someone’s – or some team’s – achievement to be fully appreciated, but there’s no question that tennis is currently enjoying the peak years of one of the greatest clay court players ever, if not the greatest: Rafael Nadal.

That’s why this otherwise evenly balanced tie between two quality teams was always going to require Serbia to win the three rubbers that Nadal was not involved in. And so it was effectively decided the moment David Ferrer beat Novak Djokovic in the opening rubber. No-one quite wants to believe the tie is over after one match, but the reality was that, after that result, someone from the Serbian team had to beat Nadal on clay in Spain, and that’s currently the toughest ask in tennis.

Djokovic could pose a threat to Nadal at Roland Garros

Nadal still needed to deliver the goods, and in Djokovic he faced the player who pushed him further at Roland Garros last year than anyone else. Djokovic put in a much better performance than he had done against Ferrer, and there was enough in it to suggest that, if he can get enough dust on his socks during the European clay season, he might pose Nadal’s toughest challenge at the French Open this year.

But if Djokovic needed a couple of matches to get comfortable on the red stuff, Nadal showed that he is not just a great clay court player but can also switch to clay at the drop of a hat. Never mind that his last tournament was on indoor hard court in Rotterdam and his next is on the outdoor hard courts of Indian Wells in the California desert – he can play on clay at any time.

Nadal’s adaptability will be Germany’s problem

And that will be Germany’s problem in July when it travels to Spain for the quarterfinal. Nadal may well play the Wimbledon final five days before the tie, but it will still take something of a miracle – short of illness or injury – for him to lose a match. The Germans hosted Spain in Bremen last year and couldn’t make home advantage count. They now face the Spaniards on Spanish soil (almost certainly clay) with a team that must hope, like Serbia did, that it can make an impact on the other three rubbers.

Spain’s win over Serbia in glorious sunshine, and with tennis of a quality that increased as the weekend went on, will largely erase from the memory the damage to the 14,000-seater stadium on Thursday night that caused the whole of Friday’s play to be lost. Some will say the tie was lucky to have all its live matches decided in straight sets, but it was also very unlucky to catch winds of a record speed for this part of the Spanish coastline on the eve of the tie. It is the third time the Spanish Federation RFET has used this model of temporary stadium, and in a country passionate about its tennis and enjoying a golden era, it would be a shame if it feels it can’t use it again – after all, it allows top-class tennis to reach the parts of Spain that tour tennis just can’t reach.

All photo credits: Jasper Juinen/Getty Images

Rafael Nadal of Spain celebrates his victory over Novak Djokovic of Serbia during day two of the Davis Cup World Group first round tie between Spain and Serbia at the Parque Tematico Terra Mitica on March 8, 2009 in Benidorm, Spain. Nadal defeated Djokovic in three straight sets 6-4, 6-4 and 6-1 sending Spain into the Davis Cup quarterfinals with a 3-1 lead over Serbia.

Djokovic in awe of Nadal as Spain advance

PARIS (AFP) — Novak Djokovic is just two places behind Rafael Nadal in the world rankings, but on Sunday it felt like a chasm.

World number three Djokovic slumped to a 6-4, 6-4, 6-1 defeat to Nadal as defending champions Spain romped into the Davis Cup quarter-finals with a 4-1 first round win over Serbia.

Djokovic admitted he was in awe of the Spaniard who showed no ill-effects from the knee injury which had kept him off the circuit for a month before the Benidorm claycourt tie.

Read the full article

Feliciano Lopez (2nd R) of Spain waves to the crowd during a victory lap with his team mates Nicolas Almagro (R), David Ferrer (C), Tommy Robredo (2nd L) and Rafael Nadal (L) followed by Spain's Davis Cup team captain Albert Costa celebrating their win over Serbia during day two of the Davis Cup World Group first round tie between Spain and Serbia at the Parque Tematico Terra Mitica on March 8, 2009 in Benidorm, Spain. Nadal defeated Novak Djokovic of Serbia in the fourth match in three straight sets 6-4, 6-4 and 6-1 sending Spain into the Davis Cup quarter-finals with a 3-1 win over Serbia.

Team: Feliciano Lopez, Nicolas Almagro, David Ferrer, Tommy Robredo, Rafael Nadal and Coach Albert Costa

Rafael Nadal of Spain reacts during his match against Novak Djokovic of Serbia on day two of the Davis Cup World Group first round tie between Spain and Serbia at the Parque Tematico Terra Mitica on March 8, 2009 in Benidorm, Spain. Nadal defeated Djokovic in three straight sets 6-4, 6-4 and 6-1 sending Spain into the Davis Cup quarter-finals with a 3-1 win over Serbia.

All photo credits: Jasper Juinen/Getty Images

Indian Wells Website:
www.bnpparibasopen.org

Indian Wells BNP Paribas Open Tournament TV

Draws

Order of Play

Fox Sports National

The Tennis Channel

More Information for TV Schedule
www.onthebaseline.com

Fox Sports Net (FSN) is the new broadcast partner of the Pacific Life Open, which will be held March 10-23 at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.

The tournament will be aired for more than 40 hours on FSN’s 15 owned-and-operated regional networks that reach more than 70 million homes across the United States.

Former ATP and Sony Ericsson WTA Tour players Justin Gimelstob and Chandra Rubin will be part of the commentary team, in addition to award-winning announcer Barry Tompkins.

Coverage of the Pacific Life Open on FSN will begin live on Saturday, March 15 at 11:00 AM PST and continue throughout the following week. The women’s and men’s finals will be live on Sunday, March 23 at 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm PST.

Pacific Life Open Television Listings

All times are Pacific. Please verify with your cable provider the schedule for the Fox Sports Network station in your area.

Saturday, March 15, 2008
Early Round Coverage - FSN - 11:00 am - 3:00 pm (LIVE)
Early Round Coverage - FSN West - 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm (LIVE)

Sunday, March 16, 2008
Early Round Coverage - FSN - 11:00 am - 1:00 pm (LIVE)
Early Round Coverage - FSN West - 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm (LIVE)

Monday, March 17, 2008
Early Round Coverage - FSN West - 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm (LIVE)
Early Round Coverage - FSN - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm (LIVE)

Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Early Round Coverage - FSN - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm (LIVE)
Early Round Coverage - FSN West - 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm (LIVE)

Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Men’s Round of 16/Women’s Quarterfinal - FSN West - 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm (LIVE)
Men’s Round of 16/Women’s Quarterfinal - FSN - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm (LIVE)
Women’s Quarterfinal - FSN - 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm (LIVE)

Thursday, March 20, 2008
Women’s Quarterfinal - FSN - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm (LIVE)
Men’s Quarterfinal - FSN - 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm (LIVE)
Women’s Quarterfinal - FSN - 12:00 am - 2:00 am (EST & PST) (Delay)

Friday, March 21, 2008
Men’s Quarterfinal - FSN - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm (LIVE)
Women’s Semifinal - FSN - 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm (LIVE)
Women’s Semifinal - FSN - 12:00 am - 2:00 am (EST & PST) (Delay)

Saturday, March 22, 2008
Men’s Semifinal - FSN - 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm (LIVE)
Men’s Semifinal - FSN - 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm (LIVE)

Sunday, March 23, 2008
Women’s Final - FSN - 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm (LIVE)
Men’s Final - FSN - 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm (LIVE)

Rafa Fan Site:
vamosbrigade.com

The Original Forum at Rafa's Website
before Nike took over and made a different form:
www.activeboard.com

Rafa's Website:
www.rafaelnadal.com

News at Rafa's Website:
www.rafaelnadal.com/nadal/en/news

Here is news from Rafa's site:

INDIAN WELLS DRAW REVEALED

March 10, 2009

Rafa Nadal will arrive in California tonight (local time) after a successful weekend in Benidorm, where he played the first round of the Davis Cup against Serbia and won 2 out of the 3 points needed to qualify for the quarterfinals of the event.

DRAW CEREMONY

After the conclusion of the draw ceremony for the first Masters Series event of the year in Indian Wells, we have a better picture of what it is to come for Rafa in this tournament. The best tennis player in the world has a relatively comfortable draw (for the first couple of rounds):

He has a bye in the first round and will have to face the winner of the match between Russian, Kevin Anderson (a wild-card) and a qualifier, in the second.

In the third round things could get a lot tougher for Rafa when he faces the likes of Tomas Berdych or Mikhail Youzhny. Two very, VERY dangerous players.

In the quarters, he could play against Argentinean, David Nalbandian and in a hypothetical semi-final, it is very likely he could face defending champion Novak Djokovic. However, Rafa also comes into this tournament with a lot of confidence and one hard court Grand Slam title under his belt.

On the other side of the draw, Roger Federer will have an easy debut against the winner of the match between French Marc Guiquel and Italian, Simone Bolleli. Also on his way are: Jo-Wifred Tsonga, Andy Murray, Fernando Verdasco, and James Blake.

Rafa has a bye in the first round, which means he does not play until round two.
Seeded players in his quarter are Del Potro(6), Monfils(9), Nalbandian(14), Berdych(21), Safin(24), Tursunov(26) and Melzer(30).

The other top seeds in his half are Novak Djokovic(3) and Andy Roddick(7).

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Below is from the Enough Project website:
http://www.enoughproject.org/blog

The 5 Best Stories You May Have Missed This Week

Posted by Enough Team on Mar 11, 2009

Here at Enough, we often swap emails with interesting articles and feature stories that we come across in our favorite publications and on our favorite websites. We wanted to share some of these stories with you as part of our effort to keep you up to date on what you need to know in the world of anti-genocide and crimes against humanity work.

A couple of good slide shows this week help illustrate the unfolding drama in Sudan following the indictment of President Bashir. The Guardian compiled a series of photos spanning from 2004 to last week’s announcement by the ICC. The New Republic captures images of the reaction among Sudanese around the world to the ICC’s decision.

Ofebia Quist-Arcton’s piece this morning on NPR described the mood in Zimbabwe following the traffic accident in which Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai was injured and his wife Susan died.

CFR’s analysis on the warrant for President Bashir provides a useful synopsis of the political and humanitarian developments in Sudan and the events leading up to the ICC’s decision. CFR calls the warrant “the most dramatic development in the global move toward increased transnational justice since the end of the Cold War.”

UN Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women Yakin Erturk has often been in the media recently, speaking in honor of International Women’s Day. We were especially interested in Al Jazeera’s take on her comments, which focused on the increasing risk of violence against women and girls amid the deepening economic crisis. Al Jazeera also highlighted U.N. Secretary General Ban ki-Moon’s recent visit to eastern Congo, after which he expressed ‘shock’ and ‘sadness almost beyond expression’ after meeting women who were victims of sexual violence.

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Find your elected politicians contact information at this link:

www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected

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Write President Obama

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You can also call or write to the President:

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Comments to President Obama:

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or

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The White House available 9 AM - 5 PM EST weekdays

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To call the USA Secretary of State

202-647-6575

The USA State Department public comment line

works 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.

Genocide Ends

When Enough of Us

Stand Up Against It

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RAFAEL NADAL BACK HOME IN MALLORCA AFTER AO 09 AND BEFORE ROTTERDAM

Rafa and the Cameras
February 1

Australian Open 09

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Rafa in a TV ad for Tourism

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Making of tourism TV ad - die Inseln von Nadal
Above two videos uploaded by dieINSELNvonNADAL
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Rafael Nadal February 1, 2 and 3, 2009
1) Championship Match Australian Open '09
2) Rafael Nadal poses with the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup following his victory at the Men's Singles at the Australian Open 2009 at the Langham Hotel on February 2, 2009 in Melbourne, Australia.
3) Rafael Nadal arriving in Palma de Mallorca after winning the Australian Open, hundreds of fans went to the airport to welcome Rafael.

Photo by Photo Agency

Photo credits: Clive Brunskill, Cameron Spencer, Ezra Shaw, Lucas Dawson, Mark Dadswell, Mark Kolbe, Quinn Rooney - all of Getty Images
and two screen caps by Mary of the original forum of Rafael Nadal's website

pictures link

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Rafa mobbed at the airport
video uploaded by jlroga

Articles:

www.thetennischannel.com - Nadal Will Never Surrender by Steve Flink

www.telegraph.co.uk - Rafael Nadal finishes the revolution with Roger Federer win

tennisworld.typepad.com - Mentor Mine by Peter Bodo

Rotterdam Tennis Tournament website

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Genocide Ends

When Enough of Us

Stand Up Against It

JOIN US
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www.savedarfur.org
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www.standnow.org

www.miafarrow.org


Write President Obama
www.whitehouse.gov
You can also call or write to the President:

The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20500

Comments to President Obama: 202-456-1111

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2008 ~ A YEAR FOR TENNIS HISTORY AND NADAL PLAYED HIS PART

www.tennistalk.com ~ The_Nadal_story_part_1: A_humble_upbringing

www.tennistalk.com ~ The_Nadal_story_part: 2 2003 ~_Rafa_blows_up

The Nadal story part 3: 2004 ~ Nadal's breakout year

www.tennistalk.com ~ The_Nadal_story_part_3: 2004 ~ Nadal's_breakout_year

November 28, 2008 By Jonathan Morgan

Many consider 2004 to be Rafa's coming of age year, which saw him in his first ATP final, his first Davis Cup appearance, his first ATP title, and of course, his first victory over Roger Federer

2004 was the year that Nadal became a mainstream name in the tennis world. Before that, people knew who he was and what he was capable of doing, but no one figured it would be this quickly. At just 17, Nadal opened the year with a first round loss in Chennai in singles. However, he made a run to the title in doubles with Tommy Robredo, giving him momentum for the next week; a finals run in Auckland. It was Rafa's first ATP final, and he lost 7-5 in a heartbreaking third set to Dominik Hrbaty.

At the Australian Open, Rafael was becoming more and more of a mainstay of the tour. He wasn't quite ready to break through, but people were certainly talking about him. He met up with Lleyton Hewitt in the third round in a match that definitely brought him to the forefront of the tennis world. After shocking Hewitt all match with an array of fantastic shots, young Rafa couldn't put it together at the end of sets. Hewitt won the match in straights, with 2 tiebreak wins, very similar to the El Aynaoui match at the US Open. Like his jump from challengers to the ATP level events, Rafa was just not there yet.

He got his very first Davis Cup invitation shortly after that, as the Spaniards opened their campaign against the Czechs in the Czech Republic. Young Rafa, after losing the opening rubber in Jiri Novak, was able to defeat Radek Stepanek on a quick indoor court in an away tie in a live 5th rubber. Talk about pressure. And Nadal did it in straights. Jubilation ensued, as Nadal's career looked to be on incredible upswing that everyone was anxious to see would take him.

After a few ho-hum weeks in Milan, Dubai, and Indian Wells, Nadal came into Miami in 2004 looking very hungry. In fact, it was at this tournament that the Tennis Channel did a No Strings show on Rafael. Nadal came into this event barely seeded at #32, the lowest. This created an unfavorable draw for Rafael, as he had to face top seed and top ranked player in the world, Roger Federer. Federer was at the start of his fantastic reign at the top of the tennis world, and had just come off a victory in Indian Wells the week prior. They met up in the third round and Nadal destroyed him. Federer just didn't know what to do with the kid's game as it was so unlike anyone's he had ever seen. Granted, Federer did appear to be sick and reports at the time were saying as much, but it was Federer that actually predicted after that loss that it would be Nadal that would succeed him at the top of the tennis game within 3 years.

He wasn't off by much. Although he lost in the next round to Gonzalez, yet another statement was made. This kid is for real.

Nadal's next event changed the course of his career. A quarterfinal matchup with fellow extremely talented teenager Richard Gasquet in the Estoril event in mid April 2004 turned out to be more than either man bargained for. Nadal won the first set and lost the second, but in the course of the match, he hurt his ankle. Rafa fought back hard to win the third set, but had to withdraw from his semifinal match. Nadal missed the next few months of the tour, including both Roland Garros and Wimbledon, due to that left ankle stress fracture.

Nadal returned in July of that year in the Bastad event and put up a decent result in his first event back. A few wins and a healthy Nadal took some steps that summer to win his first ATP title of his career. After a few trans-Atlantic flights and a nice battle against Hewitt in Canada, Nadal returned to Europe for the event in Sopot, Poland in August. He romped through that draw, winning all 5 matches in straight sets and taking his first career title. After his injury, his ranking had slipped to 71, but this title shot it back up to 48.

Two weeks later, at the US Open, he won his first 5 setter against Ivo Heuberger before taking on World #2 Andy Roddick in a night match. Roddick demolished him, proving that Rafael was continually making strides but he wasn't quite ready to play with the big boys yet. At just 18, though, he was making good time.

Like in 2003, his post US Open run was marred with losses. After a Davis Cup singles victory over Arnaud Clement, Spain was into the finals to play against the USA in December. Nadal's fall that season was disappointing, as he put up a 2-4 record before the Davis Cup final. All was forgiven, however, when the Davis Cup final was underway in Seville in early December.

Carlos Moya opened the tie with a solid win over Mardy Fish to give the Spaniards a 1-0 lead. Surprisingly, Rafael was given the nod to take on Andy Roddick in the second rubber, as opposed to Juan Carlos Ferrero, who had won the French Open just the year before. The decision turned out to be a fantastic one. Many people point to this match when they talk about Nadal turning from a boy to a man. Even Roddick years later remarked that he awoke a sleeping giant in this match.

Clay of course, was never Roddick's favorite surface, but he has the serve and the tenacity of winning to get the job done on any surface you throw at him. Roddick took the first set in an epic 8-6 tiebreak before Nadal bounced back to take the second easily, 6-2. Things were looking up for the Spaniard as Rafa was looking more and more comortable as the set wore on. The third set tiebreaker was crucial. Nadal scrapped and took it 8-6, setting off insane cheers from the Spanish as Nadal took a 2 set to 1 lead. Roddick looked deflated in the 4th as Nadal took it 6-2. Moya took out Roddick in the 4th rubber to seal the deal as the Spaniards and Nadal took the Davis Cup title.

Nadal ended 2004 ranked 51, 2 spots down from his 03 year end rank of 49. Needless to say, though, his 2004 was much more successful and career alterting than 2003. He entered 2005 with his confidence soaring high and ready to explode.

www.tennistalk.com ~ The_Nadal_story_part_4: 2005-2006 ~ A_developing_star

www.tennistalk.com ~ The_Nadal_story_part_5: 2007-present ~ World_Superstar

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IKER CASILLAS -VS- RAFA NADAL

www.rafaelnadal.com

November 28th

Iker Casillas and Rafa Nadal might play different sports but there is no doubting that their hearts both lie in the same place when it comes to football.

The tennis world No.1 is a staunch Real Madrid fan, as is Casillas, and when the two met today to discuss a charity event they are arranging, they couldn't resist talking about the upcoming clash with Barcelona.

"Rafa and I are both convinced that we will win 1-0 in the Camp Nou," Casillas told AS.The event is called 'Friends of Iker vs Friends of Rafa - To free the world of malaria' and will involve both tennis and football, and as an extra treat, a bit of karting action.

All the players have not yet been confirmed but F1 driver Fernando Alonso will definitely be taking part and Casillas and Nadal could not resist taking pops at the other today.

"Rafa has a good pair of feet but he does not have the vision," quipped the Real Madrid goalkeeper before Nadal responded with: "Iker could do with some tennis lessons, I would even give them for free if he wanted.

"The event will take place three days after the clash in the Camp Nou on the 16 December and tickets will be between €6-10.

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Federer and Nadal set for Qatar

For Every Roger Federer the World Needs a Rafael Nadal

2008: Prince Rafa detrhroned King Roger


Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero congratulates the winners of the Davis Cup after the Final Match Argentina Vs Spain Fernando Verdasco and Jose Acasuso. 3rd Time Spain wins the Copa Davis but first time in foreign country.

(Photo by Photo Agency)

Source of pictures (17): Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez and Spanish Davis Cup 2008 Team

Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero congratulates the winners of the Davis Cup after the Final Match Argentina Vs Spain Fernando Verdasco and Jose Acasuso. 3rd Time Spain wins the Copa Davis but first time in foreign country.

(Photo by Photo Agency)

Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero congratulates the winners of the Davis Cup after the Final Match Argentina Vs Spain Fernando Verdasco and Jose Acasuso. 3rd Time Spain wins the Copa Davis but first time in foreign country.

(Photo by Photo Agency)

Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero congratulates the winners of the Davis Cup after the Final Match Argentina Vs Spain Fernando Verdasco and Jose Acasuso. 3rd Time Spain wins the Copa Davis but first time in foreign country.

(Photo by Photo Agency)

Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero congratulates the winners of the Davis Cup after the Final Match Argentina Vs Spain Fernando Verdasco and Jose Acasuso. 3rd Time Spain wins the Copa Davis but first time in foreign country.

(Photo by Photo Agency)

Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero congratulates the winners of the Davis Cup after the Final Match Argentina Vs Spain Fernando Verdasco and Jose Acasuso. 3rd Time Spain wins the Copa Davis but first time in foreign country.

(Photo by Photo Agency)

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Photo credit: Photo by Photo Agency

Nadal and media hail their heroes ~ Article

Video links:
Nadal and Feliciano speak on the telephone with sound delay issues ~ Spain to Argentina

Rafa congratulates the spanish team ~ This is in Spanish

Fernando Verdasco who made the 3 against 1 victory over Argentina in Davis Cup Final 2008

Verdasco: "Struggles whole life for this " and Lopez, Ferrer and Captain Emilio Sánchez Vicario ~ interviewed after Davis Cup 08 win in Argentina

Rafa off the court ~ mostly
Uploaded by niinzniinz

This is a promo photo for Nadal’s upcoming duel against Real Madrid goalie Iker Casillas. The charity event for malaria, which takes place on December 16, will involve football, tennis and go karting.
Source: rafael-nadal-has-shrunk

www.rafaelnadal.com

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www.SaveDarfur.org

ajws.org

Contact your U.S. Senator

Contact your U.S. Representative

Learn Your Congresspersons' grades on Darfur: www.darfurscores.org

Senator John McCain's Grade: C
President-elect Barack Obama's Grade: A+

Contact President-elect Obama

1-800-GENOCIDE

Call President Bush at 201-456-1111

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if you don’t use it.

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RAFAEL NADAL RECOVERING WHILE SUPPORTING SPANISH TENNIS VICTORIOUS TEAM

Rafael Nadal in Mauritius

Rafael Nadal on a fishing excursion off the north part of Mauritius, near Gunners Coin.

Source: www.mauritiusupdate.com

After a hectic year, the No 1 tennis player, Rafael Nadal, spent a whole week in Mauritius. He was invited by the MTPA and stayed at the Royal Palm, together with some friends. During his stay he could enjoy some of the best attractions on the island. .

Are you disappointed to miss the Davis Cup?
Rafael Nadal. To miss the Davis Cup and before that the Masters, is tough... Because I love to play for my country. And especially when it comes during my best year. Its very tough. But my body was too tired to play and I had some problems with my knee. So I needed to recover. I have to accept that.

A model ship (St Géran) was presented to Rafael Nadal by Vianna Murday of the MTPA as a souvenir. What did you like the most during your stay in Mauritius?
Every day, there has been a different thing and I liked everything. The first day I relaxed in the hotel and it was perfect. The second day, we took a catamaran to Ilot Gabriel, and again, it was perfect. I spent some time snorkeling and there was a good variety of fish. The third day, we had a helicopter trip which enabled us to have a good overview of the island. The mountains are nice and different from those in Mallorca.
In the afternoon, I went fishing near Coin de Mire, off the north coast, with a nice guy. The people are very nice with us, here.
On the next day, we went to Ile aux Cerfs and Grande Rivière Sud Est. It was nice, the weather was perfect and we had lunch on Ilot Mangénie. I played golf on a beautiful and very difficult golf course.
The Mauritian food is very nice and the sea food is excellent...

How do you compare Mauritius with Mallorca?

It is difficult to compare. I like calm, quiet places. I think both places are good. There are mountains here and in Mallorca too. I would say that Mauritius is more pristine...

What are the other attractions you would have liked to do in Mauritius?
May be walk with lions... But definitely more fishing, more golf too. And complete the 18 hole of Ile aux Cerfs. I did only the 9-hole circuit.
Unfortunately, I have not been staying long enough. May be I can come back...




Source: www.mauritiusupdate.com

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www.mauritius.com
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Spanish duo hail Verdasco

Praise all around for Spanish man of the moment

Source: www.skysports.com

By Elliot Ball Last updated: 23rd November 2008
Emilio Sanchez Vicario and Fernando Verdasco

Sanchez Vicario: Praise for Verdasco

Davis Cup captain Emilio Sanchez Vicario and world number one Rafael Nadal have paid tribute Spanish hero Fernando Verdasco.

Verdasco, who was brought in to replace Spain's off-form David Ferrer, braved to a 6-3 6-7 4-6 6-3 6-1 victory to hand Argentina their third defeat in three final appearances and their first home loss for 10 years.

Verdasco had been overlooked for Friday's opening singles but earned himself a chance by winning Saturday's doubles alongside Feliciano Lopez.

And his skipper was keen to praise his 25-year-old star after the left-hander came through the epic three hour and 56 minute contest to hand Spain their third Davis Cup crown.

"It was an incredible match - all the guys were so nervous," Sanchez Vicario said.

"Fernando was just the better player - he's very strong."

And Spanish sensation Nadal, who was unable to play due the knee injury he sustained in Paris earlier this month, was full of praise for his compatriots.

"I couldn't be happier, it's an unforgettable moment and they have made history," Nadal told Spanish television.

"Fernando was brilliant - absolutely amazing from the fourth set. Emilio (Sanchez Vicario) has formed a tremendous group with a fabulous atmosphere at its heart."

And man of the moment Verdasco was nearly speechless after he clinched the tie, but when he did speak the 16th ranked player insisted it was the greatest day of his life.

"It's a dream. I've wanted this chance since I was a boy, few get it and even fewer take it," he said.

"In the Davis Cup, you have to fight to the death and you always have to keep your hope of winning. This mental strength helped me win the match."

Source: www.skysports.com

RAFAEL NADAL LISTENS TO HIS BODY

Rafael Nadal announces he will not be able to play the final Davis Cup
Photo credits: Getty and unknown

The following are from www.rafaelnadal.com:

NOVEMBER 03 | 2008

NOT PLAYING IN SHANGHAI

Monday, November 3rd, 2008

Dear fans and media reps,

It has been a long and difficult year where I managed to obtain great results, both on a professional and on a personal level. I have mentioned in various occasions that the tennis calendar has been extremely hard with practically every single week playing. This forces us players to put pressure on our bodies, making it impossible for a top level player to be 100% at each event.

On a personal level I had as one of my goals to become #1 during this year and competing at so many events might have harmed, specially at the end of the season, my physical condition, taking away the power needed to play at a high level in these last events. I don´t know if this has been a mistake or not but the fact is that with the goal achieved I also have to take one of the most difficult and painful decisions:

I have decided not to compete at the Masters Cup in Shanghai. As I say this is one of the most difficult decisions in my career due to the importance of the event and above all, due to the fact that I wont be able to share time with the fans in China and the tournament organizers that always have treated me in such special way.

I am deeply saddened and disappointed for my fans around the world that expected to see me in Shanghai. I do however, expect to be there again in October 09 for the ATP Masters 1000 event in Shanghai.

I know that many people were speculating about this matter and even though I have yet not done any tests, I can honestly say I have taken the right decision. I want to recover and get ready for the Davis Cup final in Mar del Plata, Argentina. That is also another reason for not going to Shanghai.

Many thanks to all for your support and understanding.

Rafa

NOVEMBER 04 | 2008

RAFA'S MEDICAL RESULTS

Barcelona, 4th November

Angel Ruiz-Cotorro, the Spanish tennis federation (RFET) doctor, as well as Rafa’s doctor has released a statement today in which he revealed the state of Rafa’s right knee injury after some tests done early in the morning in Barcelona.

“After the necessary medical procedures and tests were carried out this morning. I can confirm that Rafa is suffering from tendonitis in his right knee”.

“As a result of this injury it is necessary that Rafa rests and undergoes more treatment involving anti-inflammatories, physiotherapy and ice packs until next Saturday”.

"Once this period of rest is over, and depending on the development of the pain, Rafa will gradually begin training on the court again," adding that further tests were planned for Monday

Nadal pulled out of the season-ending Masters Cup on Monday because of the injury, which last week forced him to retire from his Paris Masters quarter-final against Nikolay Davydenko.

ANGEL RUIZ-COTORRO

Doctor of the Spanish tennis federation (RFET).

From the Front Page of Rafael Nadal's website www.rafaelnadal.com

No Davis Cup Final for Rafa. "It Pains Me"

Tuesday November 10th, 2008

Unfortunately Rafa will not be able to compete at the Davis Cup final. After the medical tests done today, he announced that he will not travel with the Spanish team to Mar del Plata in Argentina on Thursday.

Rest assured that this was one of the worst decisions he's ever had to make, a very painful one, the one that no one wanted to hear. Rafa is deeply upset about it, more than anyone else for sure

These were his words at the press conference in Barcelona:

"After a very long and positive year, it is terrible for me not to be able to participate at two of the events that were part of my goals this season, Shanghai and the Davis Cup final."

"This is a very difficult time for me, but at least I know I’ve done everything possible to be in the final. It was a goal of mine to be there”

“I’m used to playing with pain, but this pain is different, new in a way. I can’t control it” said Rafa today at a Press conference in Barcelona.

“I’m conscious of the fact that my team has the ability to win without me for sure. I don’t think Spain’s chance to get the title will end because of me, it’s nothing like that” concluded Rafa before thanking his team captain, Emilio Sánchez Vicario for being so supportive and “understanding” about his situation.

When asked if the injury had something to do with the this year’s tennis Calendar, the 4 time Roland Garros champion said that it “didn’t help” but at the same time, he “didn’t do anything crazy to try to get to No.1”. He thinks that “the Olympic Games certainly made the schedule tighter"

NOVEMBER 07 | 2008

JUST FOR THE RECORD

7th of November, 2008

I don’t usually make denials of false information published related to me, but given the seriousness of the matter I would like to make a clear statement.

Some Argentinean media have published a false interview with me after my press conference in Madrid. During that interview that never happened it's said that I make comments about the Argentinean government and Argentinean politics. That interview and those comments are completely false and my team is now trying to track the source of this interview and take appropriate measures.

I am the kind of person that never make comments about politics, not local, nor national, and specially not international.

I really hope that all the Argentinean people that read the article know that it wasn’t me who said those things but instead it was someone else who taking advantage of my name, wrote a false story trying to harm my image and reputation.

Thank you everyone!

Rafa

Injured Nadal Out of Davis Cup

Source: http://tvnz.co.nz/view/page/411337/2299890

Nov 11, 2008

World number one Rafael Nadal will miss Spain's Davis Cup final against Argentina this month after failing to recover from tendinitis in his right knee.

The French Open and Wimbledon champion said the decision to withdraw had been extremely difficult and added he had done everything possible to get fit but had decided to obey his doctors' orders.

"I am used to playing with pain but this was a new and different pain I cannot control," he told a news conference.

"I am not feeling that great. These are very hard choices when you are an individual player, even more when you are playing doubles, but much more when it's about a Davis Cup team."

Olympic gold medallist Nadal, who took over as number one from Swiss Roger Federer in August, has blamed his injury on an overloaded tennis calendar.

The injured knee forced him to pull out of the season-ending Masters Cup in Shanghai and he also had to retire from his Paris Masters quarter-final against Nikolay Davydenko last month.

The athletic Mallorcan has played 93 singles matches this year, winning 82 and collecting eight titles. He said he did not think he had pushed himself too far.

"I haven't done anything crazy to get to number one in the world," he said. "I don't feel ready to approach a match like this one and that's why I won't be there, much to my regret."

VIOLENT MOVEMENT

Spanish tennis federation (RFET) doctor Angel Ruiz Cotorro said Nadal would have to rest for another 10 days.

"In two weeks he can start pre-season training but he'll have to take it slowly," he told the news conference. "It's a new and acute injury and it is caused by violent movement."

The RFET is expected to name its team on Tuesday for the tie in Mar del Plata from Nov. 21-23. Spain won the Cup in 2004 and 2000 while Argentina are yet to win but reached the final in 2006 when they lost to Russia.

World number 12 David Ferrer is expected to take over as Spain's number one, with Tommy Robredo, Nicolas Almagro or Marcel Granollers joining doubles pair Fernando Verdasco and Feliciano Lopez to make up the four-man team.

"I know that my team mates can win the final without me," Nadal said. "We have the players to beat Argentina, although it won't be easy."

Davis Cup - Granollers replaces Nadal for final

Marcel Granollers-Pujol has been called up to the Spain team in place of the injured Rafael Nadal for the Davis Cup final against Argentina later in November.

Team captain Emilio Sanchez-Vicario handed Granollers a place alongside the more experienced David Ferrer, Fernando Verdasco and Feliciano Lopez.

Santiago Ventura will join the side as a sparring partner.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Gilles Simon upset Roger Federer, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, on Monday, November 10, 2008, in the opening match for both men in the season-ending Masters Cup in Shanghai.

Source: http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/11/10/sports/tennisatp10.php