text:
Recap: Nadal Wins Thriller vs. Djokovic
Four months ago, Rafael Nadal was a long way from Paris. After seven months on tour, he took his first, tentative steps back at a small clay-court tournament in Chile. He faced four opponents, none ranked in the Top 25, and lost to the fourth after winning the first set. His chief rival, Novak Djokovic, had just won the Australian Open for the third straight year and was targeting the French Open, perhaps his best chance to win the tournament for the first time. Nadal, who'd beaten him four times there, was coming back from a knee injury and might not even be fit enough to defend his title in Paris, let alone to beat Djokovic.
Now Nadal has played 44 matches this year, and won 42 of them. The 44th came Friday, and it didn't come easy. Nadal faced Djokovic in the first of two men's semifinals, a rematch of last year's final, and Djokovic remained intent on making good on his chance despite Nadal's formidable form. Four hours and 37 minutes later, Nadal had won the five-set thriller — 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7(3), 9-7 — and come within a match of capping his comeback to the tour in the best way possible: by winning his eighth French Open. And Djokovic lost his shot at the career Grand Slam, and of becoming the first man to win the year's first two Grand Slam tournaments since Jim Courier did it 21 years ago.
The match was a bit erratic. At times, particularly at the start and end, both men played near their best and produced the defense-turned-to-offense-to-defense rallies only they can. At other times, particularly the third set, only one man was near his peak. At a tournament full of five-set thrillers, Gael Monfils-Tomas Berdych or Richard Gasquet-Stanislas Wawrinka may have delivered slightly more thrills. Overall, though, Nadal and Djokovic showed they are the two best players in the planet at the moment. And Nadal should be favored in the final, despite his enervating semifinal: He's won his last 16 matches on clay against David Ferrer, and his only two on the surface against Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. (After that Nadal-Djokovic thriller, the Ferrer-Tsonga semi was strangely low-energy at the start, with three-quarters of the seats empty as fans took comfort breaks and Tsonga, without the French crowd support, dropped the first three games.)
After the match, Nadal recalled the similarities between this match and the Australian Open final last year. He famously remembers every detail of past matches. And he's right: They really were similar. That time, Nadal won a fourth-set tiebreak to force a fifth set, rode the momentum to take a 4-2, 30-15 lead, then missed an easy backhand pass, and lost the set, 7-5, and the match. This time, Djokovic wins a fourth-set tiebreak to force a fifth set, rode the momentum to take a 4-3, deuce lead, falls into the net after hitting a smash and loses the point, and loses the set, 9-7, and the match. Perhaps they'll go 11-9 in the Wimbledon final — please, not the semifinal this time. Perhaps before then, Djokovic can take some overhead practice. Who'd be surprised if they met again next month in London? Perhaps Roger Federer and Andy Murray, who played the final last year. But each will have to step up their games to match the performance Nadal and Djokovic put on for an opening act today.
From the News Conferences
Things we learned (or learned again) from Nadal's and Djokovic's news conferences after their respective straight-sets quarterfinal wins.
**Nadal remembers every point, every stat, from his matches: "So now I am in semifinals, three matches in a row without losing a set. Last two matches I only lost one serve."
**There's a reason Nadal seems to play better later in tournaments: "I am more calm today that I am competing for much more important things than one week ago. Then I was competing just for the second round. Sometimes it's a little bit strange, but that's how my mentality sometimes works."
**For Nadal, pre-match nerves aren't a bad thing: "If you are not nervous to play the semifinals against the best player of the world, it's because you are not enjoying or you don't feel the passion for this game. Sure I will be a little bit nervous, but sure I will be more motivated than nervous."
**Don't read too much into Djokovic's oft-quoted comment that "I'm going to win" — he was describing the necessary mindset to beat the king of clay on clay: "I know what it takes to win against him. That's what I'm going for. I'm going to win. That's the mindset."
**Djokovic thinks the start of the match is critical: "I need to start well. That's something that I know."
**Djokovic doubts we will see — and doesn't want us to see — a repeat, or topping, of their six-hour, five-set final at the Australian Open in 2012: "I don't think there are big chances that it's going to go longer than that, that six hours. Do you want to see more than six hours' match? I'm sure I don't want to be six hours on the court."
During this tournament, Djokovic's first coach, Jelena Gencic, died, at age 76. She also coached Monica Seles and other Top 10 players. "Jelena was my first coach, like my second mother," Djokovic said after his fourth-round win. "We were very close throughout my whole life, and she taught me a lot of things that are part of me, part of my character today, and I have nicest memories of her."
In the last conversation they had, he recounted, she told him, "This is a tournament you need to win." As a result, "Now I feel in her honor that I need to go all the way." He added, "It gives me that inner strength, you know, to push even harder."
We're courtside now. It's precisely 1 p.m. local time. No sign of the players yet. The seats are about 20% filled. Rather a sleepy feeling for what's being billed as the match of the tournament.
Nadal comes out first, to fairly loud applause. Sounds to my ear like Djokovic gets a bit more support — though it's a contest unfairly tilted toward fans of the second player on court, who have a target to chase.
Mind Games
Djokovic is first up to the net, predictably. Nadal usually makes his opponents wait. Nadal is hopping up and down as he listens to the chair umpire, Djokovic standing more calmly.
Weather Report
It's warm and sunny, possibly the hottest conditions of the tournament so far. There's a bit of wind, though nothing like the U.S. Open semifinals last year in the concrete wind tunnel known as Arthur Ashe Stadium.
It's typical to see empty stands for the first semifinal here — but I thought this match, of all matches, would break that trend. It's probably the most anticipated match of the year. Then again, it is lunchtime…
Net Play
Old-timers lament the decline in net play on tour. Both of these guys volley well but are also great at making life miserable for net players, especially on clay. So TV viewers should pay attention during warm-ups: They may spend more time at net now than they do during the match, or at least the first set.
The PA guy introduces Nadal as the big screen shows his best results at this tournament. They are seven wins, and they are so plentiful that there isn't room for the "20-" before the 11, 10, 08, 07, 06, and 05. There isn't even room for spaces between the preceding commas and 10 and 05.
Djokovic's resume here is more slender. His best result was the final last year, where he lost to Nadal.
Last year Nadal played in this semifinal slot and allowed David Ferrer to win just five games. It's unlikely to be so easy today. Ferrer, who plays second, will be hoping it's much tougher for whoever wins, so that if he can beat home-crowd favorite Jo-Wilfried Tsonga he'll get a tired opponent in Sunday's final.
Ready — si vous plait, merci — play. Djokovic to serve first.
First Point
Djokovic wins the first point by winning what is often the key battle of their matchups, the cross-court exchange between his backhand and Nadal's forehand. He draws a short ball, attacks Nadal's backhand and draws the error. Same pattern on the next point, and this time Djokovic hits a blistering forehand winner down the line. Ideal start for him.
Good Start Djokovic
Two minutes, three Djokovic winners and one forcing of a Nadal error, and Djokovic is back at his chair, having held at love. This is the same form he showed in the first set in Monte Carlo, when he had several chances to win the set, 6-0, against Nadal, and won it 6-2.
Djokovic's first shot and last shot of the opening point of Nadal's service game landed deep, putting pressure on Nadal and forcing the error. Nadal finally gets on the board with a pair of ripped forehands. So far, though, Djokovic isn't letting Nadal hit as many forehands as he would like to.
Routine Service
Djokovic said the other day that his serve would be key. Great start in that first game. If he can win routine service games, he'll control much of the match. Nadal doesn't win as many easy points on his serve, and will have to work harder.
Decibels (1-0 Djokovic)
Some commentators have bemoaned how loud the first women's semifinal was, between Maria Sharapova and Victoria Azarenka. So far, Nadal is grunting loudly while Djokovic has been quiet — intimidatingly quiet, in my mind. Nadal, though, gets to a game point with an ace, punctuated with a grunt, and gets a second on a Djokovic error.
1-0 Djokovic
Against most players, that Nadal inside-out forehand would have won the point. Against Djokovic, it set up a comfortable down-the-line forehand that Nadal couldn't handle in a rare foray in the general direction of the net. Perhaps with that pressure in mind, Nadal went for more on the same shot on the next point, at deuce, and it was called long. Djokovic and French chair umpire Pascal Maria knelt over with a long look, and agreed the ball was in. Two shots, two bad calls — Nadal's first serve on the next point was called a game-winning ace, but the ball mark revealed it was out.
No Time to Settle
Interesting to see Nadal come to the net on something other than a near-winning forehand. It doesn't work. He's trying to be aggressive early. He knows he won't have time to settle into this match.
With clay keeping the ball up, and both these guys so dangerous even from way behind the baseline, every position of seeming strength is one of danger. Djokovic attacked Nadal's backhand repeatedly, came into the net, and was passed by a rocket of a crosscourt backhand as Nadal held. Nadal, feeling more confident, followed up by winning his first return point of the match, on a kind of half-volley flick of a forehand down the line off a deep Djokovic backhand.
Tom and Jerry (Nadal 1-1 Djokovic*)
Point of the match sees Djokovic get the last word in a cat-and-mouse exchange at the net. But again, Nadal's backhand was good enough to make Djokovic hit more than one volley from a very strong position. Nadal is going for more with his backhand, conscious that when he leaves it short and high, Djokovic can consistently punish him.
2-1 Djokovic
Djokovic holds at 30. He's dropped two points on serve in two games. He was even more impenetrable on serve at the start of his quarterfinal against Tommy Haas, when he dropped just five points on serve in the first two sets.
Shoulders (2-1 Djokovic)
Djokovic starts his second return game by sending a high backhand into the net. He's probably the best in the world at hitting offensive shots off high balls to his backhand, but even he is liable to make some mistakes from there and get tired. The Bryan brothers, asked yesterday to handicap this match, mentioned how exhausting it can be to hit balls from shoulder-height and above, kicked up by the heavy topspin on Nadal's forehand.
Honk Honk (2-1 Djokovic)
A siren behind Nadal's side of the court just won't quit, and Nadal plays through it well, though a Djokovic forehand return near the baseline eventually yields an error and brings Nadal back to 40-30.
Nadal hit 11 forehands and 10 backhands in that game, by my count (he held serve). A good hold, but not the ideal ratio of forehands to backhands.
With Serve, 2-2
One of the biggest advantages Nadal gets from his topspin forehand, in addition to the high-bouncing balls, is how much control it gives him. He sends one deep into Djokovic's corner, pulling him out of position and eventually winning the point and the game. No break points so far.
Lopsided Sirens (2-2)
The siren clearly was attached to a pro-Djokovic vehicle; it's stopped for his service game. Nadal nonetheless is putting pressure on, getting to 15-30 before a netcord aids a Djokovic net approach and a Nadal backhand goes just wide.
In, Out, In, Out (2-2)
Nadal gets to deuce, and gets applause from the crowd, with a classic combo of an inside-out forehand, followed by an inside-in forehand. The angles and depth he creates with his topspin make it almost impossible to cover, even for the sport's most-flexible man. Djokovic responds with a very similar combination to get a second game point.
Nobody Does it Better (2-2)
Nadal gets to deuce with the best of his forehand combinations: One inside-out, the next up the near sideline. No one has ever done it better.
3-2, Djokovic
So much hype leading up to this match — and it's living up to it so far. Incredible ball striking and moving. Still no break points. Only one thing is missing: the crowd. Where is everyone? Far too many empty seats for this match.
Tight (3-2, Djokovic)
The crowd, such as it is, has been perked up by this tight game. Nadal saved Djokovic's second game point with an aggressive forehand winner. Djokovic responded by turning defense into offense, hitting a backhand down the line, meant as an approach shot but so good it was a winner. Nadal gave the game away with a strange forehand drop shot that went wide. We're nearly 30 minutes and five games into the match. Somewhere Ferrer and Tsonga are smiling at how this is going so far.
3-2 Djokovic
The no-break-points stat would suggest that these two are dominating behind their serve. But no dominant position, whether it's serving or hitting a forehand inside the court, is truly dominant with one of them on the other side of the net. Nadal won the opening point of his service game only by the slimmest of margins: He hit a forehand deep into the corner, then found himself sprinting toward the net to retrieve Djokovic's defensive stab that just dropped over the net. Nadal's short reply drew a Djokovic lob that cleared Nadal's head and landed inside the baseline, but wide.
Hold to Love (3-3)
Nadal holds at love, finishing with his signature lefty ad-court serve out wide that Djokovic can't return into the court. The score is tied but Nadal is looking more dangerous to me.
I'm very impressed by Nadal's backhand so far. He's hitting it deep most of
the time, and flattening out a few of them for forcing shots. He easily holds serve.
Deuce (3-3)
Djokovic is trying to stay close to the baseline and take Nadal's shots on the rise, an admirable and perhaps necessary approach but very difficult. He's having trouble controlling the ball and has hit several errors to get pushed to deuce again.
Break Point! Saved.. (3-3)
Spotty play here from Djokovic and we have our first break point (for Nadal). Two loose backhands in this game. But Djokovic saves it with a strong serve. So far, Nadal is the better player from the baseline.
And Again (3-3)
Nadal earns the first break point of the match, and Djokovic brushes it aside with a hard serve out wide to Nadal's forehand. Then he plays serve-and-volley for the first, and presumably last, time of the match. Nadal passes him easily with a crosscourt backhand. Djokovic used a similar surprise play to earn match point against Nadal at Wimbledon in 2011, but that was, well, Wimbledon. Djokovic saves the second break point, though, with a big inside-out forehand winner.
Unusual choice from Djokovic there, serve and volley at deuce. I wonder how much more of that we'll see, especially on big points.
4-3 Nadal!
On his third break point, Nadal snatches the first break of the match. His forehand down the line is yielding dividends, including a Djokovic error to end that game.
Sloppy (4-3, Nadal)
That first break of serve came about after a very good game by Nadal, but a pretty poor one by Djokovic. A few casual errors, and that serve and volley attempt.
Hit and Miss (4-3 Nadal)
Djokovic is showing what a narrow margin players have against Nadal on clay. He is aiming very close to the lines, and where he was hitting before, he is now missing slightly. He has to aim there, though. Balls near the middle of the court are going to be met, and usually dispatched, by Nadal's forehand. Everything is clicking now for Nadal — he gets to 40-0 with an ace.
In Command (5-3 Nadal)
Nadal holds again at love, finishing off with a strong putaway volley at net. He's looking commanding now.
5-4 Nadal
Another puzzlingly bad line call, another sporting overrule by a player. Nadal, from his returning perch way behind the baseline, overruled an out call on a Djokovic first serve at 30-15. Djokovic responded by closing out the game at 15. Nadal will serve for the set. He won the first set in last year's final against Djokovic, 6-4.
Testing Times
Big test here. In Monte Carlo this year, Nadal served for the second set against Djokovic but couldn't hold. He won one point in the tiebreaker and lost the match in straight sets.
Smash (5-4, Nadal)
Nadal might not have one of the best serves in tennis, but he has one of the best overheads. He amost never misses it — and he moves into position so quickly.
5-4, Nadal
I'm pretty sure Nadal also got broken at love in that game in Monte Carlo, Tom, and lost 11 of the last 12 points of the match. He's had trouble serving out sets against Djokovic in recent years.
He starts out well here, dismissing Djokovic's amazing defensive get with a typically unanswerable smash.
6-4 Nadal, One Set to Love
Nadal serves it out at 15. No hiccups there, not even a break point in the set against his serve.
An underrated strength for both these semifinalists is their slicey gets at full stretch. Nadal's at 15-15 on his forehand side just barely clears the tape and proves too tough for an advancing Djokovic to control. Then he shows how good he is at making every shot a forehand, running way out into the doubles alley to hit a short ball, following it up by running all the way to his forehand corner to easily pass Djokovic at net.
Time to Suffer? 6-4, Nadal
Almost perfect set from Nadal. The conditions are just right for him, his forehand is jumping and he's serving as well as he has all tournament. Djokovic needs to be aggressive, for sure, but he might need to grind a bit more. He can stay in long rallies with Nadal. He lacked patience at the end of that set. As Ivan Lendl might say, he needs to suffer a bit more out there.
Nadal: Beat the Best
Nadal loves taking on the best player in the world here. He's 5-0 in his career against the world No. 1 at Roland Garros, with four wins against Roger Federer and one against Djokovic. After that first set, he's won 16 of 20 sets in the matches, and has only once been forced to a tiebreak.
What Can Djokovic Do? (6-4, Nadal)
I agree, Tom, though, it may just be there's nothing Djokovic can do. He approaches behind a good shot, handles a difficult reply high to his backhand with a strong, angled drive volley — and watches a ridiculous Nadal forehand land inside the baseline. I agree that Djokovic can grind more, but only if he can consistently find the Nadal backhand.
Pin Drop
Nadal is in such a zone now he's forgetting to grunt.
6-4 0-1, Nadal
Djokovic holds at 30 after drawing two return errors from Nadal. He may need a lot of those to keep holding his serve, which he'll have to do if Nadal remains so dominant on serve.
Frustration (6-4, 0-1 Djokovic)
Djokovic exclaims in frustration after sending a backhand return deep to start Nadal's service game. Djokovic feels pressure to return especially deep, which means he's going to miss more than he's used to, especially off Nadal's spinny serves.
6-4 0-1, Nadal
As the match hits the hour-mark, Djokovic gets away with an iffy approach shot. He hits a decent volley off Nadal's backhand passing shot — decent against anyone else. Against Nadal, it's an invitation to rip a forehand. Nadal does, but the shot catches the tape and sails wide.
The Scream (6-4, 1-1 Nadal)
That Djokovic scream got the loudest applause he'd received all match, but Nadal holds after another Djokovic error. He hasn't had many real chances in Nadal service games, so can't give away points when he gets to 30-30.
Djokovic does start the next game strongly, though, with his two best crosscourt backhands of the match.
Pressure (6-4 1-1, Nadal)
Djokovic follows those two great backhands with two atrocious forehands and it's 30-30. Again he's feeling pressure in a service game, though Nadal gives away the 30-30 point with a rare unforced forehand error.
6-4 1-2, Nadal
Djokovic holds with yet another lasered crosscourt backhand. If he can start clicking with that shot he has a chance to break through on Nadal's serve.
Time Please (6-4 1-2, Nadal)
Djokovic gets off to a good start by targeting Nadal's backhand, getting a short ball, approaching net and drawing a wild Nadal miss on an attempted down-the-line passing shot. Then Nadal, one of the slowest players on tour between points, gets a time-violation warning and misses the subsequent first serve.
6-4 1-2, Nadal
Nadal shrugs off that warning, though, by dominating the point behind his second serve, finishing it off with an emphatic forehand winner, an unreturned serve and a sharply angled forehand that Djokovic can't handle to get to 40-15.
Here's more on Nadal's time between points. He's faster this year than he used to be, but still slower than just about everyone else on tour.
About Time (6-4, 1-2, Nadal)
Nadal shakes his head at the time violation warning from the chair umpire. Not pleased. He hates those warnings and has criticized them in the past. His basic premise is, if you want me to play points like this, I need to recover. One thing Nadal is correct about: The rule is unevenly enforced. These two players consistently take more than the allowed time between points, but are rarely given warnings.
6-4 2-2, Nadal
Tom, Nadal had a point, I think, about time violations after some of their previous matches. But most rallies today haven't been especially long, including the one before the violation.
Stats (6-4 2-2, Nadal)
Here's why Djokovic, who is up 30-15 in his service game, needs to win this set: Nadal has won his last 133 best-of-five-set matches when up two sets, and has never lost from up two sets on clay.
Nadal Breaks! (6-4 3-2, Nadal)
Djokovic sends a memo to Nadal that he's about to hit a drop shot, then hits a bad one, and Nadal duly hits the easy winner by Djokovic. That was a sloppy way to give up the break, from up 30-0.
Dropping the Ball (6-4, 3-2, Nadal)
Novak Djokovic has a very good drop shot. That was not one of them. He couldn't have hit it worse, and Nadal breaks serve for a 3-2 lead in the second set.
Five-Set Dominance (6-4 3-2, Nadal)
More bad news for Djokovic: Nadal is 68-0 when winning the first set in best-of-five-set matches on clay.
Then again he's also 10-1 in best-of-5s on clay when losing the 1st set.
Really, there's not much anyone can do when playing Nadal best-of-five on clay, except hope the umpire loses track of the score.
Bold Bets (6-4, 3-2, Nadal)
I'd like to hear from anyone who wagered, before this tournament began, that Nadal would lose more sets to Daniel Brands than to Djokovic. But I won't hear from them, because they are out shopping for yachts.
Break Point Djokovic (6-4, 3-2, Nadal)
Not so fast, Tom. Djokovic could still at least match Brands's total of one — he won the third set after losing the first two in last year's final against Nadal. Then again, he may need another burst of rain showers to do so. Or he could hit a good burst of shots, like he's done in this Nadal service game to get his first break point.
You Have to Start Somewhere (6-4, 3-2, Nadal)
That point right there — the one Djokovic won to earn a break point — was the perfect balance between patience and aggression. Only 60 or 70 more of those and he's in business.
Second Break Point (6-4, 3-2, Nadal)
The crowd is really pushing here for Djokovic to break back and make a match of this. He gets a look at a second serve, Nadal delivers a slow one, and Djokovic misses the return. He makes no mistake on the next point, though, and draws a rare Federerian shank from Nadal for a second break point.
BREAKING NEWS: Djokovic Breaks Back (6-4, 3-3, Nadal)
Djokovic has really raised his level here. He earns a third break point by handling the typical Nadal backhand combo of short slice followed by hard passing shot, hitting a delicate drop volley that Nadal can't track down. Djokovic breaks by getting back to even in a baseline rally and watching a Nadal forehand sail wide.
Novak! Novak! (6-4, 3-3, Nadal)
Djokovic with his best game, but Nadal was a bit wild with his forehand. The rallies are getting longer, and it's better for Djokovic right now.
Crowd with strong chants of "Novak!"
We Have a Game of Tennis (6-4 3-4, Nadal)
Djokovic comes up with three big serves from 15-30 to get a game point and back up his break. We're back on serve and back to a competitive semifinal.
Still or Sparkling? (6-4 3-4, Nadal)
Not sure if it ever comes through on the TV broadcasts, but at the start of just about every changeover on the two big courts here, an image of a certain sparkling water that sponsors the tournament pops up on screen, followed by the sound of said beverage opening and a female voice saying "aaahhh." Suffice it to say I have heard it on a few dozen too many changeovers during this tournament. I'll have still, please.
6-4 3-4, Nadal
Nadal hits the rare second serve to a righty's forehand and remembers why he doesn't do it often against top returners: Djokovic crushes a forehand return down the line. Nadal tries finding the backhand on the next serve but Djokovic runs around it for an awkward inside-out forehand that catches Nadal by surprise and draws the error. 30-30. Nadal responds by winning a baseline slugfest finished off with a volley winner into the open court. Djokovic draws it back to deuce with his own aggressive play and net approach. This match is getting into that match-of-the-year territory it was expected to enter.
Huff and Puff, Deuce (6-4 3-4, Nadal)
Djokovic huffing and puffing after a brutal rally. Nadal ends it with an easy volley. Still, much better play from Djokovic. He's returning serves deeper and with more pace, hitting cleaner backhands and showing a lot more patience. Deuce again.
DANGER: We May Have a Match (6-4 3-5, Nadal)
Nadal hits a rare double fault, the first by either player in the match, to give Djokovic an opening, and he takes it. It's one of the genres of points in their rivalry: Djokovic keeps attacking Nadal's backhand until he can step in with a forehand winner into Nadal's forehand wing. Djokovic finishes it off with one of his extended, celebratory grunts. He'll serve to level the match at a set apiece.
Wow (6-4 3-5, Nadal)
Wow. Djokovic pushes Nadal around and unloads on a forehand (his grunt morphed into a celebratory yell). Down a set and break of serve moments ago, he'll serve for the set.
Mini Deuce: 30-30 (6-4 3-5, Nadal)
So much for my warning about needing to watch warmups for net play. Djokovic wins the opening points of his service game at net and is now 14 for 19 up there. Nadal wins the second point at net and is 9 of 15. Smart of both men to move forward and press their advantages in points despite the risks — the winner will need something left for the final. But Djokovic plays his approach shot too conservatively at 30-15 and Nadal passes with his backhand for 30-30.
Second Set Djokovic (6-4 3-6, Nadal)
Djokovic gets to set point with a trio of huge forehands, then takes control of the rally at 40-30 and draws a Nadal error into the net. Impressive turnaround — he won four-straight games, reminiscent of his eight straight to turnaround last year's final. He may have to keep that level up to win two of the last three sets.
Somewhere, Tsonga and Ferrer raise their glasses, rooting for 70-68 in the fifth set.
Stamina (6-4 3-6, Nadal)
Djokovic rattles off four-straight games to win the second set.
Incredible stuff. But a question: Can he keep it up? He has in the past, but he's certainly looking more tired than Nadal.
Partisan Interest (6-4 3-6, Nadal)
If Djokovic is tired, he's not showing it. On the first point of the third set, he looks contend to grind with Nadal, seizes control of the point — and watches a Nadal backhand passing shot flick by him. Listen for the French crowd to cheer for more points like that, because the longer these two play, the better chance the winner of the second semifinal will have in the final. And one of the players in that match is Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga.
Deuce (6-4 3-6, Nadal)
Djokovic responds again with disdain to a slow second serve to his forehand, with another forehand return winner down the line. He gets to deuce with a backhand down the line drawing a Nadal error. If Nadal is going to stop this streak of losing games at four, he'll need to do more here.
Stat Update (6-4 3-6, Nadal)
First set: Nadal won 6 of 9 points on his second serve (67%). Second set: 4 of 11 (36%).
Lies, Damn Lies, and Statistics (6-4 3-6 1-0, Nadal)
Nadal holds after two Djokovic groundstrokes sail long.
Here's where official stats can fall short: According to them, these two combined for 39 winners and 42 unforced errors in the first two sets. That sounds like the stuff of a sloppy match. But viewers would argue otherwise. Not counted in the winners totals: All the would-be winners these guys get a racket on, or even get back into play, pressuring each other to go for more on subsequent shots and hit more unforced errors.
Case in point: Djokovic just hit a forehand so hard the sonic blast drew laughs in the press seats. Nadal got it back, though, and Djokovic missed his next shot into the net.
Lively (6-4 3-6 1-0, Nadal)
Djokovic is looking gassed between points and Nadal is stepping on the gas pedal. He drags Djokovic wide with two angled inside-out forehands, then attacks with a backhand down the line to get a break point.
6-4 3-6 2-0, Nadal
After hitting the sideline with a couple of down-the-line backhands in this game, Djokovic goes for a bit too much on break point with a crosscourt backhand. It's called on the line. Nadal walks over and disagrees, angrily. Chair umpire Pascal Maria gets down off his chair, inspects, and agrees. Djokovic doesn't, walks to the net, then accepts his fate. He's lost two games in a row after winning four straight. So apparently the answer is, no, he can't keep that level up.
Grumble (6-4 3-6 2-0, Nadal)
Djokovic has a few words for Pascal Maria after he rules a ball out.
But he doesn't argue much. Best not to waste the energy. He's still hitting the ball well, but he's not getting to the ball as well as Nadal.
6-4 3-6 3-0, Nadal
Djokovic has at times in his reign as world No. 1 looked spent in big matches — and played even better than before such as toward the end of his 2011 U.S. Open final against Nadal, or his 2012 Australian Open quarterfinal against David Ferrer. But here his body language is of a man defeated. He'll need to snap out of it soon — Nadal can pile up games in a hurry on this court.
Looks Can Be Deceiving
The word from the twitterverse is, that shot from Djokovic was in, according to Hawk-Eye, the line calling system. Of course, it's not used on clay (it's just here for television), because the ball leaves marks on clay — marks that can definitely be deceiving.
Pit Stop (6-4 3-6 3-0, Nadal)
Djokovic briefly left court for treatment. He seems to be walking OK. He'll serve to keep a foothold in this set.
Double Fault, Double Break (6-4 3-6 4-0, Nadal)
Djokovic opens with a winner, then Nadal hits his own that Djokovic doesn't bother chasing. Djokovic follows with his first double fault, then an ill-advised drop shot that Nadal easily counters. Two break points for Nadal to build his third-set lead, and Nadal takes the first on a Djokovic backhand into the net. The world No. 1 may be inclined to let this set go and renew his attack in the fourth.
Relentless (6-4 3-6 4-0, Nadal)
Very odd to say, but that second set Djokovic won may have won Nadal the match. He's relentless.
Love (6-4 3-6 5-0, Nadal)
Djokovic looks like he's content to try some things in this already-lost set. On the opening point of the game he tried a crosscourt backhand drop shot that Nadal easily turned into a winner down the line. He won't try that again. Nadal holds at love.
Bagel? (6-4 3-6 5-0, Nadal)
There has never been a bagel set in these players' 35 matches. Will Djokovic get broken for the third time in the set for the first bagel of the rivalry? He may fight to hold here so he can serve first in the fourth set.
Too Hot to Handle (6-4 3-6 5-0, Nadal)
Nadal won't give away his chance at a bagel — at 0-15, he hits an immaculate backhand smash at Djokovic's feet that Djokovic can't handle.
6-4 2-6 5-0, Nadal
Nadal shows off his backhand overhead now. Ho hum, winning every game, it's a beautiful sunny day…
Ripper (6-4 3-6 5-0, Nadal)
Nadal gets two sets points with a ripped crosscourt backhand winner. Djokovic saves the first with an approach to Nadal's backhand, and a backhand drop-volley winner.
6-4 3-6 5-1, Nadal
Djokovic saves the second set point, then gets a game point when a Nadal forehand sails long, and holds for his first game of the set on a Nadal return winner. Nadal saved a few bagel points in the opening set of their match in Monte Carlo this year, then came out much stronger in the next set. Djokovic is hoping to copy that template.
6-4 3-6 6-1, Nadal
Nadal never looks rushed, it's amazing. Races up for a drop shot, there in plenty of time. Immediately retreats for a lob, moves around it, slides into place, flicks at the ball, and Djokovic misses an overhead. Nadal shakes off a time violation that costs him a point and wins the set.
Strike Two (6-4 3-6 6-1 0-1, Nadal)
To clarify, partly, on the time rule: Players have 20 seconds between serves at Grand Slams. It's rarely called, but both these guys — especially Nadal — routinely go over the limit. Nadal got a warning earlier, and on the second violation he loses a point. On the third and all subsequent ones, he'd lose a game. Pascal Maria has shown intent to call Nadal on the delays, so it will be interesting to see if Maria keeps calling it. The crowd didn't like it — they whistled the call.
And we'll soon find out, as a fresher-looking Djokovic holds at love.
(See Previous Post) 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, Nadal
A new set — and fresh start — which can't come soon enough for Djokovic, who played clever tennis to get a lob over Nadal's head, then hit his smash into the net. Nadal, three set points at 40-0 — hold on, make that two. Gutsy call from chair umpire Pascal Maria, giving Nadal his second time violation at set point. That costs Nadal a point. He closes the set out anyway on his next set point, on a Djokovic error.
Tick, Tock (6-4 3-6 6-1 0-1, Nadal)
Nadal hurries up to the line to get started on his usual pre-serve routine but still takes 22 seconds, by my count, after winning the first point on his service game. My guess is Maria won't call it for a small violation like that, but might for an egregious one.
6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 1-1, Nadal
Nadal time between points in that game: 22 seconds, 24, 20. And he holds at love.
Cracking Point, and a Correction (6-4 3-6 6-1 1-2, Nadal)
Djokovic holds at 30, after winning several great points, one of them the point of the match. Djokovic hit a drop volley, both players came to net, Djokovic lobbed Nadal, then hit one more drop volley to win the point.
Also, correction on earlier comment: Any subsequent time violations by Nadal will cost him a point, not a game.
Fair's Fair (6-4 3-6 6-1 1-2, Nadal)
Meanwhile, I timed a couple of Djokovic's service points in that last game. 24 seconds and 19 seconds. Both seem to be moving fast as this set is really picking up. Nadal opens his second service game of the set with a fluky ace off a bad bounce, then sends a backhand long.
As Clear as Mud (6-4 3-6 6-1 2-2, Nadal)
The holds are coming fast and furious now. Nadal holds to 15, after a series of short rallies.
On the time rules, I think this tweet puts it best: "So to be clear separate rules on time violations for Slams, other ITF events, ATP tour and WTA tour. ABSOLUTELY ABSURD."
Djokovic Holds to Love (6-4 3-6 6-1 2-3, Nadal)
It's amazing how well these two know each others' games. Nadal seems to know when Djokovic is hitting a drop shot to his backhand. Djokovic seems to know Nadal will know, but still hits it. Djokovic knows Nadal will respond with a short backhand slice to Djokovic's backhand off the drop shot. Nadal knows Djokovic is anticipating it so he tries to hit it very low over the net and near the sideline. That time, he hit it too wide. Earlier in the match, it was Djokovic who lost most of those exchanges.
Dealing with all those levels of knowing must be mentally exhausting.
Taking a Step Back (6-4 3-6 6-1 2-3, Nadal)
I feel like I've seen this pattern with these two many times: Long rallies and crazy points, followed by quick games and short points.
It's almost like they're both agreeing to rest (which of course, they're not). Inevitable that their matches will have ebbs and flows, but still strange. What do you say, Carl?
Recent Encounters (6-4 3-6 6-1 2-3, Nadal)
Their Madrid Masters semifinal in 2009 was three sets in a best-of-three format, and took four hours and three minutes. We're well into the fourth set here, and just two hours and 38 minutes have elapsed. This feels more like their 2011 Wimbledon final: four sets, two hours and 28 minutes. Djokovic won that one after losing the third set, 6-1.
Correction: A previous version of this post said the Madrid Masters match in 2009 was the final.
In Depth Tactical Analysis (6-4 3-6 6-1 3-3, Nadal)
I was just about to write that it's almost as if they're tacitly agreeing to take shots on each others' service games early, then if they don't make them, concede the hold and get ready for the next one. As in, hey, if I lose, I don't want you to lose in the final because this match was too draining. I agree they haven't made any agreement, but I wonder if they both sense a tacit one. Or it could just be that with 35 matches, random patterns will start to look meaningful.
And as I write that, Nadal polishes off another quick hold at 15 with a forehand winner.
Deal's Off (6-4 3-6 6-1 3-3, Nadal)
Nadal: Unspoken deal's off. He gets two break point as Djokovic makes some sloppy errors.
Tense (6-4 3-6 6-1 3-3, Nadal)
Never count out Djokovic's forehand when facing a break, set or match point. He saves the first break point with a big inside-out forehand winner.
Ping (6-4 3-6 6-1 3-3, Nadal)
See those little barriers in front of the line judges? They're made of metal this year, for the first time, as I can recall. Love them.
Winners make a satisfying sound when they hit them.
BREAKING NEWS: Nadal Breaks (6-4 3-6 6-1 4-3, Nadal)
Never count on it, either: Djokovic shanks a forehand on Nadal's second break point and now will have to break Nadal to stay in the match. Nadal is two games from his eighth French Open final. If he reaches it without further trouble, he should be fresh enough to be the heavy favorite against whoever wins the second semifinal, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga or David Ferrer. But Djokovic's middle names are "further trouble," so don't count out the world No. 1 yet.
DING-DONG: Djokovic Breaks Back
Nadal will need to make some first serves to close this match out. Djokovic hits a blistering backhand off a Nadal 85 miles-per-hour second serve to get to 15-15, then hits the baseline to draw an error and hits another great crosscourt backhand to get two break-back points.
And he breaks with a return on the sideline that Nadal can't return in the court. This set is back on serve.
6-4 3-6 6-1 4-4, Nadal
The crowd cheers, "Novak! Novak!" They're glad. They get to see more tennis, and the winner will expend a bit more effort he won't have in the final, possibly against Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga.
Nadal looks a bit rattled, sending a forehand into the net on the first point of Djokovic's service game. From a similar position he lost four straight games in the second set.
6-4 3-6 6-1 4-5, Nadal
Djokovic might be the ultimate "down but not out" player. Thrives in those situations…much to Roger Federer's dismay.
Zoom Zoom (6-4 3-6 6-1 4-5, Nadal)
Djokovic holds at love after hitting a pair of forehand passing shots, the first drawing a weak volley, the second putting it away for a winner. This set continues to race by: Even the two breaks were rapidfire.
Stats Update (6-4 3-6 6-1 4-5, Nadal)
Nadal won the first set, 6-4, with 66 total points in the set and 51 minutes. This set, at 5-4, has had 40 points and taken 35 minutes.
Speed Tennis (6-4 3-6 6-1 5-5, Nadal)
And Nadal holds at love. 10 games with 44 points, in 39 minutes.
Deuce (6-4 3-6 6-1 5-5 Nadal)
Deuce. Nadal is going to press, press, press here. Wants another chance to end this in four sets.
BREAKING NEWS: Nadal Breaks (6-4 3-6 6-1 6-5 Nadal)
And after the first deuce of the set, Djokovic hits another inside-out forehand winner to get a second game point — then misses a forehand long, releasing a confused-sounding grunt after, as if he was questioning how that happened? Another forehand error, and Nadal has break point. If he converts, he gets to serve for the match. And he does, after retrieving a very tough shot from his forehand corner. Djokovic will have to break here or lose perhaps his best chance at his first French Open title.
Nadal Serves for the Match (6-4 3-6 6-1 6-5, Nadal)
When in doubt, play defense. It's the Nadal motto. Retrieves a forehand from 10 feet behind the baseline and lures Djokovic into an error. Now he'll serve for the match.
6-4 3-6 6-1 6-5, Nadal
Neither will let this end quietly. Djokovic opens with some great hitting to win the first point, and Nadal responds in kind to bring it to 15-15.
Finger Nails
No one can step backwards into his forehand corner and still generate pace like Nadal just did for his second successive inside-out forehand winner. 30-15.
Nadal tried the same shot, but this time Djokovic anticipated it and sent it back from whence it came. Nadal, rattled, hit the next forehand long. 30-30. Two straight tight games after 10 rapidfire ones in this set.
Two points from exiting the tournament, Djokovic hits a backhand return right near the baseline that Nadal can't return. Gutsy. Typical. Break point to force a tiebreaker.
Tiebreaker (6-4 3-6 6-1 6-6, Nadal)
Fourth-set tiebreaker. Djokovic hits a second consecutive return right near the baseline, eventually getting a short ball that he pummels with his forehand for a winner. The crowd cheers, "Novak! Novak!" as he steps up to serve to start the tiebreaker.
Quitters Never Win
He will not quit. Amazing break from Djokovic. Still alive, somehow.
Tiebreaker, 1-0 Djokovic
The last time these two met, Djokovic broke Nadal when Nadal was serving for a set at 6-5 — then Djokovic won the tiebreaker in a rout, 7-1. He opens here with a strong point, winning on a net approach. 1-0 Djokovic in the tiebreaker.
2-1 Djokovic in the Tiebreaker (6-4 3-6 6-1 6-6 Nadal)
2-1 Djokovic in the tiebreaker. He bravely attacks Nadal's forehand, opening up the backhand and drawing an error. Nadal looks shaken. But then Nadal bravely goes for an inside-out forehand called in. Djokovic takes a long look, then wipes the mark out — it's on the line.
4-1 Djokovic in the Tiebreaker (6-4 3-6 6-1 6-6, Nadal)
4-1 Djokovic in the tiebreaker. Hitting drop volleys on clay against Nadal is a very risky proposition — if the ball pops up even a little, he can rip a passing shot with his forehand. But Djokovic keeps pulling it off here, as he did again to consolidate his mini-break in the tiebreaker. And he backed it up by finishing an extended baseline rally with an inside-in forehand winner. Nadal needs to turn this around quickly or it's going to five.
4-2 Djokovic in the Tiebreaker (6-4 3-6 6-1 6-6, Nadal)
4-2 Djokovic in the tiebreaker. Nadal gets a much-needed easy point on serve so trails by just two at the change of ends.
6-4 3-6 6-1 6-6, Nadal
4-3 Djokovic in the tiebreaker. Djokovic pulls the trigger too early and misses a backhand down the line. He'll get two serves with the one-point lead in the tiebreaker.
Set Point Djokovic
6-3 Djokovic in the tiebreaker. Djokovic goes for a pair of hard forehands into Nadal's forehand corner and is rewarded, first with a miss into the net, then with a lob that Djokovic smashes away for three set points.
We're Going Five Sets (6-4 3-6 6-1 6-7(3), Nadal)
We're going five sets.
A Strange Set (6-4 3-6 6-1 6-7(3), Nadal)
Djokovic ended the strange set with an unusual sequence. He hit a desperation backhand slice to extend the point. Nadal set up for his favorite response to such a weak offering: an inside-out forehand. But Djokovic knew where it was coming, and blazed a forehand back at Nadal, who was so startled he hit the volley into the net. Stunning to think that a little while ago Nadal was serving for the match and two points from winning it. Djokovic won 9 of the last 12 points of the set, much like he won 11 of the last 12 in their Monte Carlo final to win that match.
And We're Off Again
Djokovic responded to that win with a few pounds of his chest toward his box. He is fired up. Can he bring a high level to the start of a set for once? He hasn't come close to breaking Nadal early in any of the sets of this match. He'll get a chance quickly: Nadal steps up to serve to start the fifth.
Break Poiints for Djokovic (6-4 3-6 6-1 6-7(3), Nadal)
Two men have taken Nadal to a fifth set at Roland Garros: Novak Djokovic, today, and … John Isner, in the first round of the 2011 tournament.
Nadal won that previous fifth set, 6-4. But he's in trouble here, as finally Djokovic makes inroads on a Nadal service game early in a set, moving to 0-40 on a Nadal shot that sails just long, a double fault, and another return winner off the forehand side down the line. Nadal saves the first break point with a service winner and the second with a series of big forehands.
4-6 6-3 1-6 7-6(3) 1-0, Djokovic
Djokovic leads for the first time in the match, boldly approaching the net to Nadal's forehand on his third break point and drawing an error.
What's "Ssshh!" in French?
After that last game, chair umpire Pascal Maria asked the crowd to be quiet during points. Oddly, umpires make such announcements only in French. Fans come from world-wide to this international, Grand Slam event — but if they don't speak French, they'll be left confused much of the time.
WSJ Spies (4-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(3), 1-0, Djokovic)
The press seats here don't have power outlets, so Tom is offline while his laptop recharges. In the meantime he's moonlighting as a backup line judge, pointing out that several serves called in have been out. One of them eventually yielded Djokovic a smash winner to go to 15-15 in his first service game of the set. But he hits another smash at 30-30 that wasn't good enough, and when Nadal lobbed it back, Djokovic awkwardly sent the second smash out. Break point, Nadal, to end Djokovic's run.
The Old One-Two (4-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(3), 1-0, Djokovic)
Nice combo from Djokovic: Serve out wide, drop shot the reply, when Nadal predictably hits a slice back down the backhand side, rip a winner crosscourt. Back to deuce. Djokovic slips after serving but gets up quickly and Nadal's return lands on his side of the net. Advantage, Djokovic.
4-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(3), 1-0, Djokovic
Nadal rips a forehand winner down the line. Back to deuce.
4-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(3), 2-0, Djokovic
Even when it doesn't pay off immediately, a drop shot helps by keeping the opponent on the alert for one — so it's easier to power shots past them when they're expecting the dropper. Facing a similar situation as when he hit the last drop shot, Djokovic instead rips a backhand winner down the line to get a second game point. And he converts this one after a testing exchange, dictating the point and sending Nadal from side to side, finally stretching him too wide on the forehand side for an error. That's four straight games (including the tiebreaker) since Nadal stepped up to serve for the match.
Crucial Game (4-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(3), 2-0, Djokovic)
Good response from Nadal, who opens his service game with a pair of forehand winners. But Djokovic responds with a forehand return winner down the line, again, and it's 30-15. Nadal needs this hold to get back in the match.
WSJ Translation Services (4-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(3), 2-1, Djokovic)
Djokovic really goes for it on three-straight forehand returns, making two and winning both points. Nadal may want to serve to Djokovic's backhand wing, though it's not a weakness on return, just a lesser of two evils. And he does on game point, drawing a return error. "Come on!" Nadal yells. (That's English for "Vamos!")
These two have gone five sets once in their rivalry. Djokovic won that one, 7-5, in the 2012 Australian Open final.
One in, One out
Nadal wins the first point in Djokovic's service game with a great forehand up the line off a strong crosscourt backhand from Djokovic. But then Nadal sends a forehand into the net on the second point. 15-15.
Double Trouble
Djokovic throws his hands up in disgust after double-faulting at 30-15. He may be especially disappointed because he'd drawn a Nadal return error with his prior second serve.
4-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(3), 3-1, Djokovic
Nadal commits two backhand errors, the second off a strong Djokovic serve, and lets Djokovic off the hook, Now Djokovic should feel free to swing away on some returns, with the break consolidated again.
Confusion (4-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(3), 3-1, Djokovic)
Nadal looks confused — he belatedly decided to come in behind a so-so shot, then has to volley at his feet from the service line. He still almost wins the point when Djokovic doesn't do enough with the point-blank pass. Nadal gets back to 15-15 with a better approach shot that doesn't come back, and to 30-15 when Djokovic misses an easy short ball.
Mini Deuce
Nadal hits another double fault, into the net. It's 30-30. He has to clean up his game to stay in this tournament.
What the Deuce?
Djokovic can only chuckle when Nadal, stretched wide, rifles a backhand crosscourt and onto the line. That was bold — if he missed, he'd be down a break point. Djokovic shakes it off, hits a deep return, draws the error, and it's deuce.
The Run Around
With his back to the wall, Nadal is finding depth with his backhand That's critical — for drawing the short reply, and for getting time to run around the next backhand and hit a forehand. He does it there to get a game point.
Both men are playing a bit tight. Nadal has a look at a short forehand to close out the game, and shanks it. Back to deuce.
Again, when a miss would mean facing a break point, Nadal rips a bold backhand. This one's down the line, and it's a winner. Another game point for Nadal.
4-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(3), 3-2, Djokovic
That game could sting for Novak. He didn't do anything wrong, but three times on critical points Nadal ripped backhand winners from defensive or neutral positions. The key for Djokovic will be to not overreact — that's a bit fluky — but also to mix up his attack enough so that Nadal's weakness doesn't become a strength.
Nadal Needs Two Breaks
Nadal looked like he was running out of ideas there, finding no holes in Djokovic's defense in the back of the court so he tried a drop shot and hit it into the net. That brought Djokovic to 30-0, and he reached 40-0 with a forehand winner down the line. Nadal needs to break at least twice to win the match: no fifth-set tiebreakers at any Grand Slam tournaments outside New York.
Bang Bang (4-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(3), 4-2, Djokovic)
Nadal looks in a hurry to get to his next chance to break, opening his service game with two forehand winners.
But Djokovic is swinging freely, and hits a forehand winner down the line that looks almost casual.
4-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(3), 4-3, Djokovic
Nadal shakes off that return winner, holding at 15. He draws one error from Djokovic, then responds with his own casual forehand winner off a strong Djokovic forehand to keep within a game of Djokovic. It's hard to imagine Nadal losing without even getting a sniff at a break point, but then he was blown away on return games in his last fifth set at a Grand Slam, against Lukas Rosol at Wimbledon last year.
Incredibly Important Moment
A tentative start for Djokovic, as he hits his shots without much power and sends a backhand wide. Another weak shot opens up a forehand down the line for Nadal, and he obliges with the winner. A vocal contingent of the crowd is pulling for Nadal to turn this around — whether because they want a long fifth set, or for him to win, is unclear.
Break and Match-Extending Point (4-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(3), 4-3, Djokovic)
Nadal had looks on both points from 0-30 but missed a backhand return off a slow second serve on the first, and routine forehand on the second. But he gets a break point when Nadal doesn't do enough with a short ball to his backhand and Nadal hits a winner down the line, on the line.
Lamb Shank
Nadal exclaims in agony — which was Djokovic's specialty earlier in the match — after shanking a short forehand. Djokovic was bailed out there. His shots have lacked a bit of power in this game.
Net Gain (4-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(3), 4-3, Djokovic)
A bizarre turn of events here involving lots of interaction between chair umpire Pascal Maria and Djokovic. First, he gets his first time-violation warning of the match. Good thing it's his first — a second would have cost him the point, as one did for Nadal in the third set. Then, he hits a series of great shots, draws a very short lob, and rather than let it bounce, feeling the pressure of Nadal's defense, he races forward to the net, smashes the ball away — but also runs into the net. As every club player, and Maria, knows, that costs him the point. Djokovic protests the ball was already out of play, but to no avail. Impressively, he shakes it off with a strong point that he finishes at net — this time, safely far from the net with a drive forehand volley.
This Game is Tremendous! (4-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(3), 4-4, Djokovic)
Nadal struggled serving late in the last set. He opens this critical service game with an error and a missed first serve, but Djokovic bails him out with a backhand long. Djokovic's ground strokes have been very shaky since the last change of ends. 15-15.
Crunch (4-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6(3), 4-4, Djokovic)
Djokovic continues to struggle to get enough pace on his shots. Another crosscourt backhand lacks bite and Nadal hits yet another forehand winner down the line for 40-15.
Any More Twists? (6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7(3), 5-4, Nadal)
Nadal holds at 15 when a Djokovic return goes just long. Pascal Maria gets out of his chair to confirm it, while Nadal already walks back to his chair. Djokovic will have to serve to stay in the match. When he had to do that in the fourth set of last year's final at 5-6, he was broken, losing on a double fault. He'll have to shake off that memory, as well as that failed smash for that matter. And he starts well, with an inside-out forehand winner.
(6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7(3), 5-4, Nadal)
This time Djokovic hits another big inside-out forehand, but Nadal is ready, he shanks the reply — and somehow it turns into a loopy winner that Djokovic can only watch land in behind him. 30-30, Nadal two points from the final. Djokovic boldly rips forehands crosscourt, though, eventually drawing an error from Nadal's backhand. 40-30.
Supply and Demand
We want more tennis, and these sensational players are giving it to us.
6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7(3), 5-5, Nadal
Djokovic comes up with the clutch hold, though Nadal makes him hit an extra shot with an amazing forehand get. They'll play on until someone is ahead by two games: There's no fifth-set tiebreaker at majors other than the U.S. Open.
And Carl Bialik is keeping up with them both like the typewriter athlete that he is.
Something Has to Give
Nadal's inside-out forehand can do no wrong at the moment. That's pressing Djokovic to try to thread the needle to find Nadal's backhand, and he's missing too often — including there, to give Nadal the 40-15 lead in his service game. And he holds with an emphatic ace. Again, Djokovic will have to serve to stay in the match — and until there's a break by either player, you'll keep reading that.
Fatigue (6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7(3), 6-5, Nadal)
Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and David Ferrer, up next on this court, must have mixed feelings about how long they want this to go. The longer it goes, the more tired the other finalist will be on Sunday — but also the greater risk that they can't finish their match today.
Overtime (6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7(3), 6-6, Nadal)
As the French Open crowd has done at critical stages of so many matches during this tournament, they start a wave with Djokovic waiting to start his service game. He shakes it off, hits a smash carefully — perhaps too carefully, as Nadal gets a racket on it but can't keep it in court — and then Djokovic rips a winner and draws a return error for 40-0. He closes it out with a calm serve-drop shot combo and Nadal doesn't bother giving chase. Gutsy serving when facing elimination if he's broken. We're officially into overtime.
If you're wondering why the other men's semifinal hasn't been moved to the other show court:
1) Lenglen is being occupied by four women contesting the second of two doubles semifinals (defending champions Errani & Vinci are up a set); and 2) many Chatrier ticket holders came to see the Frenchman Tsonga.
Meanwhile, Nadal comes out firing in his service game, starting with a ripped forehand winner down the line from what would be a defensive position for any other player, followed later by a backhand winner and two return errors from Djokovic. Nadal holds at 15. Djokovic will again have to serve to stay in the match.
Long Lost Friends (6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7(3), 7-6, Nadal)
So, Carl, what did I miss?
Watching Nadal fight like this, it reminds me of Federer at the 2008 Wimbledon final. The king of this event holding on for dear life.
Winners (6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7(3), 7-6, Nadal)
Djokovic again nervelessly starts a sudden-death service game. First he hits about a half dozen would-be winners to win the first point, then one really good winner for the second. A Nadal error brings it to 40-0. But Nadal manages to steer the next rally to his forehand, and rips what feels like the 12th forehand winner down the line of this set. 40-15.
Smash School (6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7(3), 7-7, Nadal)
Win or lose, Djokovic better go to smash school after this match. He plays a great point, hits a solid drop shot, anticipates Nadal's reply, lobs over Nadal, and gets back the desperation lob he'd want — then somehow hits the smash into the bottom of the net. 40-30. Djokovic shakes it off, and hits a backhand winner down the line to end some great Nadal retrieving. We're four hours and 31 minutes into this match.
Human, After All
Nadal opens with a forehand wide, a rare miss in this set from that wing. Then Djokovic gets a look at a crosscourt backhand with some strong defense, but sends it wide and misses a service return. 30-15.
Well Matched (6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7(3), 8-7, Nadal)
Nadal draws another return error, then closes the game out with a backhand winner down the line. These two have really stepped up their level and are both playing very, very well at the same time, for most of this set.
Three Match Points (6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7(3), 8-7, Nadal)
This is now the second-longest fifth set Djokovic has played in his career. He won, 12-10, over Stanislas Wawrinka in the fifth set of their fourth-round match at this year's Australian Open. If Nadal breaks here this will tie for his longest fifth set: The fifth set at the aforementioned 2008 Wimbledon final that Nadal won over Federer.
Nadal's bid to break here is off to a great start. First Djokovic hit another howler of a smash out, then Nadal hit a fantastic backhand crosscourt passing shot that Djokovic watched land just in. 0-30. Then Djokovic sends a forehand long, and it's 0-40. Nadal has three match points.
Nadal Wins
Nadal wins, breaking at love on a Djokovic forehand that sails long. A great win, well deserved. A bit of an anticlimactic ending to a fantastic match.
Eight and Counting (6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7(3), 9-7, Nadal)
Nadal is through to his eighth French Open final, and who would pick against him there, even after four hours and 37 minutes of tough tennis with No. 1 Novak Djokovic?
Quelle Surprise
Nadal looked thrilled but not very surprised when he won. This is, after all, just a semifinal, as he noted before the match — even though the marquee matchup made it feel like a final. One benefit of that for Djokovic is that it means he doesn't have to stick around on court for the trophy ceremony. He leaves, blowing kisses to the crowd.
Retired French player Fabrice Santoro, now doing postmatch interviews, interviews the victorious Nadal on court, with a mix of French, Spanish and English.
In the on-court interview, Nadal references his loss, 7-5 in the fifth, in the 2012 Australian Open final to Djokovic. This time, he won the epic.
Withered Applause
Nadal is mixing up his languages — Santoro offers to let him address his fans in Spain, in Spanish, and Nadal responds in English, thanking his fans for their support through his interviews. Nadal gets warm applause, though not that warm — he's never been totally embraced by this crowd, and certainly won't have much support if Jo-Wilfried Tsonga makes the final.
Goodbye, and Thanks for Reading
That's it, the rust-colored dust on this blog has settled. Carl Bialik's final thoughts from Roland Garros are moments away.


text:
The British Invasion Returns: Terry Sylvester, Chad & Jeremy and More
* Additional fees apply. No coupon or promo codes necessary to enjoy the displayed discount price.
The last date listed for The British Invasion Tour was Friday September 19, 2014 / 8:00pm.
Currently at Saban Theatre
The Hip Hop Nutcracker: Classic Holiday Tale Remixed
- Full Price:
- $41.00 - $59.00
- Our Price:
- $23.00 - $35.00
Tchaikovsky's ballet masterpiece The Nutcracker gets a hip-hop reimagining as a supercharged cast of… More
Venue Details
Reviews & Ratings
Featured review from Dan ClaytonRed Velvet
view more less of this review
What a wonderful show. Brought back a good many songs that I remember growing up listening to.
star this review starred report as inappropriate
I was bewildered when the producers of a "British Invasion" concert began the evening by inflicted upon the audience for FORTY MINUTES an American band playing non-British Invasion music!! No one had any idea they would hear " The Maliboose" for a...continued
star this review starred report as inappropriate
Excellent show.
star this review starred report as inappropriate
One of the best concerts that I have seen in awhile.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Main Content:
Baggy Jeans
Gap Baggy Jeans
Gap baggy jeans are cut for fit and comfort. Our baggy jeans are flattering and fun to wear. Enjoy a variety of finishes and washes in these super stylish baggy jeans. The baggy jeans from this collection are a hot fashion item. Create your look with our baggy jeans.


text:
With Instructables you can share what you make with the world, and tap into an ever-growing community of creative experts.
Ambjorn Naeve invented a neat solar device over 30 years ago. But the practical idea and the mathematical concept fell through the cracks in the system.Once upon a ...
Using an art of illusion scene file to make, test and compare a funnel cooker with ot...by gaiatechnician
Adapt a clock today! Cheap trackers boost solar panel and solar cooker performance.by gaiatechnician
Solar Oven by the Science Wizardsby sciencewiz16
Tracking the sun! For the solar accumulating Barbecueby gaiatechnician
Software for solar design suggests improvements to reflectors.by gaiatechnician
Join 2 million + to receive instant DIY inspiration in your inbox.
Download our apps!
© 2016 Autodesk, Inc.


text:
CAN this work with a ductless kit of some kind? - if so where can i get what's needed?
Love the look, center piece of my newly remodeled kitchen - only negative thing, the lights are not led or bright white...
Cavaliere-Euro 30-inch Wall Mount Range Hood
ITEM#: 10802296A powerful centrifugal blower combined with a sleek stainless steel design elevates this wall-mount range hood to a class of its own. Keypad controls and halogen lights boost the functionality of the range hood, while an easy-to-clean grease filter keeps your kitchen clean. A gently curved shape adds a stylish touch to the functionality of the range hood.
Functional Operation for Ease of Use
Six speeds give you full control over the dual-chamber centrifugal blower. A blue LED touch-sensitive keypad allows you to adjust the power on the low-noise range hood. Two dimmable halogen lights brighten the stove top, making it easier for you to cook your favorite meals. A delayed power-off option keeps the blower running for one to 15 minutes to continue cleaning the air.
Easy-to-Clean Features Keep the Range Hood Like New
Nineteen-gauge stainless steel creates a durable and sleek exterior for this range hood, while also making it easy to wipe clean. A 30-hour cleaning reminder and removable six-layer aluminum grease filter keep your range hood clean so it functions well. Pop the grease filter in the dishwasher for easy cleaning.
- 6-inch round duct vent
- 900 CFM Centrifugal blower
- Two (2) 35-watts halogen lights (dimmable)
- Low speed: 25 dba (0.4 sones)
- Max speed: 56 dba (7.0 sones)
- 120-volts at 60 Hz standard USA and Canada
- Dual chamber/dual centrifugal/ 218W upgraded low noise version
- 6-speed with timer function
- Touch sensitive keypad with blue LED
- 1 dishwasher safe aluminum 6-layer grease filters
- Industry high quality #201
- Stainless steel 19-gauge
- 30 hours cleaning reminder
- Delayed power auto shut off (programmable 1-15 minutes)
- 36.25 inches high x 30 inches long x 20 inches wide
|Aluminum, Glass, Stainless Steel
|19 - 20.9 inches
|ETL Listed
|Exhaust Method
|Grease Filter
|Stainless Steel
|Hood Finish
|Number of Overall Speed
|Programmable Clock or Timer
|Range Hood Air Mover Type
|Dual Centrifugal Blower
|Range Hood Installation
|Wall or Cabinet
|Speed Control Type
|50-100 Watts
|1 year warranty on parts
|Model Number
|Country of Origin
Similar Items
Cavaliere-Euro 36-Inch Wall Mount Stainless-Steel Range Hood
Today: $509.00
Xtremeair Pro-X Stainless Steel 42-inch Island Range Hood
Today: $716.99
Broan Elite Stainless Custom Power Pack Range Hood
Today: $597.99
NT AIR White Range Hood
Today: $594.99
Cavaliere-Euro 36-inch Wall-mount Range Hood
Today: $649.00
Cavaliere-Euro 36-Inch Six-Speed Wall Mount Range Hood
Today: $499.00
Broan Evolution 2 Series 30-inch Stainless Steel Under-cabinet Range Hood
Today: $350.99
Broan Elite Stainless Steel 30-inch Wall Hood
Today: $559.99
Xtremeair Pro-X Stainless-Steel Ultra-Quiet Range Hood
Today: $547.99
LessCare LH5 Range Hoods Island Mount
Today: $624.99
Cavaliere-Euro 36-Inch Island-Mount Contemporary Range Hood
Today: $849.00
Cavaliere-Euro 42-inch Island Mount Range Hood
Today: $899.00
Cavaliere-Euro 36-inch Under-cabinet Range Hood
Today: $609.00
Broan Evolution 2 Series 36-inch Stainless Steel Under-cabinet Range Hood
Today: $383.99
Broan Allure III 30-inch Stainless Steel Under-cabinet Range Hood
Today: $409.99
Broan 30-inch Stainless Steel and Glass Chimney Wall Hood
Today: $676.99
Customer Reviews
Most Recent
Love the look, center piece of my newly remodeled kitchen - only negative thing, the lights are not led or bright whiteRead More
Does the job, but not very effective
I had higher expectations with this hood. It does the job, but not that effectively.Read More
This is the best I ever had! even when set to higher level, it's not loud.Read More
Great suction with minimal noise
VERY happy with this unit. Would definitely buy again.Read More
I love, love, love this!! I have seen the same range hood on high end homes on HGTV. Easy to clean and looks so up-to-date. For the price of this you can't go wrong.Read More
Most Helpful
Gorgeously looking vent hood
The hood came well packaged and in two large boxes. I did lots of internet searching looking for the right range hood, but kept coming back to this one due to the 900 CFM Centrifugal blower and the curved glass. Electronic buttons did not make difference in my selection. I would actually prefer regular buttons for the simplicity and operational reliability. The Installation Manual is omitting a lot of information about the installation, it is basically useless. It does not even specify power plug location other than a 35W breaker size with a USA/Canada code that is not sufficient to a person who did not install an Euro style range hood before. I ended up installing the plug between the 6" duct tube and stainless steel chimney enclosure mounted per a code to the drywall. It supposed to be accessible. Removing screws that hold the SS chimney and the SS chimney be itself could/should be considered as accessible. The power wire is not visible this way and makes the Range Hood look professionally installed, which we did by ourselves. Our kitchen has soffits. This made the installation little more challenging. We had to cut one of the lower SS chimney wall shorter to make it fit under the soffit and to meet the minimum 28" distance of the hood from the stove. The upper SS chimney is not installed at all. Venting the range hood into an attic is not recommended. This was another challenge for us as the original hood was venting into an attic (house was built in 1950's). The unit by itself is heavy and needs to be attached to 2x4's with 4" screws to avoid vibration noise, not only to drywall with the included sheet rock fasteners. They are to be put into wall to hold the hood while mounting it. This is a challenge if you don't hit the studs with one of the existing holes on the main mounting plate/back plate, which is attached permanently to the hood already. I had to take some parts off the hood apart to be able to drill holes for a proper attachment to 2x4's. I used special drill bits to drill the holes. Even doing that bulged out the back panel of the hood slightly. I hope this won't become a problem in the future. The SS chimneys attach to wall via Chimney mounting bracket. The bracket is not one piece as in the Manual, but 2 pieces instead. I would prefer one piece that could be attached to a 2x4 with one screw that did not happen. Again, I hope this will not become a problem in the future. The SS chimney walls aren't that heavy, I just wonder if it won't get loose in the future. My other half and me both like a good craftsmanship and try to install everything properly for the products to be enjoyed without problems that could pop up later due to improper installation. While I called the 800 phone number about the different Chimney mounting brackets and let me tell you, the young man representing the company was very rude right from the beginning. He said: "Do you see another part in the box that is not in the Manual?" And he went on with more up nosed comments and answers. So I asked him to drop the disrespectful insulting attitude. I also told him that the Manuals being sent with the hoods need to be updated to show the correct hardware included in the package. Not everybody has money to get a Wall Mounted Hood installed by a professional. The lights used in this unit seem to be warm white version of MR16 35W halogen bulbs. It is not a light we are used to, it is not strong enough to really see into the pots while cooking. I need to see what I am cooking, not just to have an accent light on the back wall. My other half is using it for an early morning light to make a coffee in dimmed light conditions, it is just fine for that. I will be looking into it if I can replace them with cool warm lights or anything else to make the lights brighter. While using this vent hood we found a glitch with the lights. They are flickering in 3 different strengths. This is very annoying and is caused most likely to the buttons not being sealed properly. I read about this problems on the cheap models and thought that this double priced model would not have this problem. I was very wrong. I hope I can find an answer to this problem on the internet so I can fix it. The light button is so sensitive to a touch, you don't have to even press it. I hope it will not brake in the future while it is too sensitive to my taste. The other buttons are fine and you have to press them just a tiny bit to activate a function. We are overall happy with its gorgeous look and the smooth fan function. We hope the hood will be pleasing us day after day in our newly remodeled kitchen. PROS: Seems to be quality craftsmanship Range Hood Hood is running very smoothly in all 6 speeds. Gorgeously looking hood. Good price for 900 CFM CONS: The lights are very weak and too yellow, they are only accent lights. Lights flicker in 3 different strengths while boiling water/fluids or heavier steaming. Fan speed #6 won't stop it. Poor Installation Manual PS: As I was looking on the internet for a better installation manual I found out that this Cavaliere model is also being sold under name SPAGNA VETRO 30-inch Wall-Mounted Stainless Steel Glass Range Hood - SV218D-30. If you need better lights and positioned in the front of the hood instead against the wall, get an Electrolux RH30WC60GS model with 600 CFM. The Installation, the Parts, and the dimensions PDF for the Electrolux model is also much more in detail than Cavaliere. But the price is not as good though.Read More
Keep shopping for price. Sometimes loyal O custome
I wish overstock can match prices whether the item is on sale or even if a coupon is used. I got this at a ridiculously low price (35% off retail price with free shipping + no tax) that overstock would really have to go "black" on it to meat the price let alone beat it. I found the item here but ended up buying it elsewhere due to overstock saying "NO we do not match sales". O has lost my business many times due to their policy. I find the item here but keep shopping elsewhere and buying where the price can't be beat or matched. I have yet to receive this product but from all the reviews at many different sites including a Indian curry cooking reviewer who states this works great definitely has set high expectations for me. Sometimes loyal O customer.Read More
sleek & modern & cost-effective
This was a welcome upgrade to our kitchen, it makes it all look new & modern. The blue indicator lights are a nice touch. The LED lights are adjustable & so much better than the previous incandescents. We did have a problem in which the "brain" was dysfunctional, when we contacted the manufacturer, they didn't dispute it & sent us a new computer board to replace it at no charge in only 2 days & didn't require us to send back the bad unit. Definitely a fantastic buy for what you get!Read More
doesn't quite deliver
This is a gorgeous hood and everyone who sees it in my new kitchen remarks on how beautiful it looks! And it is beautiful... but the lights burned out within 3 months after I got it... and they are not so easy to replace.... and my house fills with smoke If I am searing anything on the stovetop... Im no high heat specialist, but my old hood worked a lot better than this... If I still had the smoke alarm installed at the other end of the dining room, it'd be going off constantly. In addition, the lights are placed at the back of the unit, near where it meets the wall... I'd love to have what's cooking illuminated, not the back half of the back burners... for what it's worth.... but it looks great and everyone who sees it thinks it's awesome...Read More
Great Range Hood
This Range Hood looks as good as the quality which is incredible! Installation was a not a difficult, only suggestion is to make sure the wall you are attaching the base unit to must be substantial as the unit is heavy! It is very quiet (even on the higher speeds) and does a great job of removing odors quickly. The rear lights dont illuminate the front of the stove as well as I'd like, but we do have overhead lighting which takes care of the problem. In defense of the rear lighting, my old fan had front lights, they didnt light the rear of the range...Timer works great when you dont want to leave the fan on the whole time you are away from the range. I would buy this product again, and certainly would recommend it to my friends/family.Read More
Questions & Answers
Hello soxeboy, this can not be used ductless. Thanks for shopping with us!
We just recently purchased this range hood, as we are trying to install it, it seems the glass is very slightly cut to small. We can't get the glass to slide in to place? Could the glass really be too small to fit? I hate to return it because we love it and i'm afraid we will run into the same problem if we order the same one again. Please help !
Hello Linda JD, please contact us at 1 (800) 843-2446 for further assistance. Have a great day!
Why did you choose this product?
Looks, Size, Pricing
High cfm good reviews low noise
Good reviews and beautiful design.
Good customer reviews
because my wife said that we need a trust worthy brand rather than the ones that I liked in amazon.
What is the minimum ceiling height on this vent?
Hello jvhovis, I hope your day is going well. This can be used up to 9 feet. Thank you for shopping with us.
What is the minimum height of the flute. I assume the 36.25 is the maximum extension. Thanks.
Hi jwforman, the flute is adjustable from 25.25" to 44.5". You can view this and other dimensions at the last photo. I hope this helps, thank you for shopping with us.
we have a 30 inch range and only 30 inches between the cabinets. will this unit fit?
Thank you for your inquiry. The unit measures 30 inches at its widest point therefore should theoretically work. I would suggest consulting a professional before installation.
I don't think you can find a hood less than 30' because it is the minimum. Usually, when you select a hood it is the same size of the range & should fit your kitchen. It may be a tight squeeze for you but I think it will work for you.
just to let you know: your description for the 30 inch Cavaliere-Euro item # 10802296 is incorrect. The width of the glass is only 30 inch , not 36 inch. I ordered this item thinking the glass is 36 inch wide. I will need to exchange it for the 36 inch hood.
Thank you for the information that you supplied. The changes have been made. Our appologies that it was wrong for you. Whenever it is our fault, we will pay the return shipping for you.
Can this hood be installed as back venting or top venting?
The hood can be installed only as top venting.
what is the width of Item #: 10802296 Cavaliere-Euro 30-inch Wall Mount Range Hood?
It is 36 inches wide.
I only have 33' between two cabinets. Will this model fit OK ? It says that it is for a 30 in cook top but the dimension is 36 in wide.
Unfortunately, this item will not fit between your two cabinets.
Does this model vent outside or through a filter?
This moder requeires to have vent outside. But you still will have a filter, which is washable.
How far does the glass extend on the sides from the metal intake on a 30
For the 30 inch model the glass goes beyond the metal intake roughly 5-6 inches on each side and 4 inches on the front of the hood.
Shopping Tips & Inspiration
Tips on Choosing a Matching Range Hood
Tips on Choosing a Matching Range Hood from Overstock.com. Our guides provide customers with tips on choosing a matching range hood.
How to Measure and Install a Range Hood
How to Measure and Install a Range Hood from Overstock.com. Our guides provide customers with information about how to measure and install a range hood.
How to Install a Range Hood
How to Install a Range Hood from Overstock.com. Our guides provide customers with information about how to install a range hood.
Popular LG Appliances
Popular LG Appliances from Overstock.com. Our guides provide customers with information about popular LG appliances.
Tips on Updating Old Windows and Doors
Tips on Updating Old Windows and Doors from Overstock.com. Our guides provide customers with tips on updating old windows and doors.
Green Appliances Buying Guide
Green Appliances Buying Guide from Overstock.com. Our guides provide customers with information about green appliances.
Top 5 Advantages of Stainless Steel Appliances
Top 5 Advantages of Stainless Steel Appliances from Overstock.com. Our guides provide customers with the top five advantages of stainless steel appliances.
Online Shopping Tips for Buying Large Appliances
Online Shopping Tips for Buying Large Appliances from Overstock.com. Our guides provide customers with information about buying large appliances online.
How to Pick a Bathroom Door
How to Pick a Bathroom Door from Overstock.com. Our guides provide customers with information about how to pick a bathroom door.
How to Pick a Bedroom Door
How to Pick a Bedroom Door from Overstock.com. Our guides provide customers with information about how to pick a bedroom door.
DIY Bathroom Remodel
An outdated bathroom can feel out of place in an otherwise beautiful home, but making upgrades on your own is simple.
Shipping & Returns
Usually leaves our warehouse in 1 business day. *
Standard Return Policy:
Items must be returned in new or unused condition and contain all original materials included with the shipment. More Details
FINAL SALE EXCLUSION: Items marked as FINAL SALE are not returnable unless the problem you experience is the result of our error.
This item cannot be shipped to Alaska or Hawaii. More details
Shipping Information:
Our standard shipping method is ground shipping. We also offer expedited shipping for most items. Your final
shipping cost and estimated delivery timeframe will be available at checkout.
Standard shipping details
Expedited shipping details
For your protection, all orders are screened for security purposes. If your order is selected for review, our Loss Prevention Team may contact you by phone or email. There may be a two business day delay to process your order.
** Most Oversize orders are delivered within 1-4 weeks. Some orders may take 6 weeks to be delivered.
You May Also Like
AKDY 30" Wall Mount Stainless Steel LED Touch Control Panel Kitchen Vent Range Hood Powerful Cooking Fan Baffle Filters
Today: $285.99Sale
Golden Vantage OSWRHB02-30-GV 30-inch Stainless Steel Wall Mount Range Hood
Today: $339.99
AKDY 30-inch OSWRHD05-30-AK Stainless Steel Curved Glass Wall Mount Range Hood
Today: $327.99Sale
AKDY 30-inch OSWRH198KN3-30-AK Stainless Steel Wall Mount Range Hood
Today: $392.49
Golden Vantage 36-inch OSWRH198KZ4-36-AG Stainless Steel Wall Mount Range Hood
Today: $353.99Sale
Cavaliere CCEL- D Wall Mount 10ft Chimney Extension
Today: $129.00
AKDY 30-inch OSIRH688I-CS14-30-AK Island Mount Stainless Steel Range Hood
Today: $498.49Sale
Golden Vantage OSWRH703C-30-GV Stainless Steel Wall Mount Range Hood
Today: $292.99
AKDY 30-inch OSIRH603B-30-AK Island Mount Stainless Steel Range Hood with Both-side Control
Today: $494.49Sale
Broan QS130 Allure Series 30-inch 220 CFM Under Cabinet Hood
Today: $165.49 - $196.49
AKDY 36-inch OSIRH688I-CS14-36-AK Island Mount Stainless Steel Range Hood
Today: $514.99Sale
Cavaliere PSL 30-inch Wall Mounted Range Hood
Today: $499.00
2 Car Garage Screen Enclosure Door
Today: $46.49Sale
36-inch OSWRHD05-36-AK Curved Glass Digital Touch Display Stainless Steel Wall Mount Range Hood
Today: $335.99
Cavaliere-Euro Wall Mount Range Hood
Today: $969.00Sale
Cavaliere PSZ 30-inch Wall Mounted Range Hood
Today: $549.00
Cavaliere-Euro 36-Inch Touchpad Control Wall Mount Range Hood
Today: $509.00Sale
XtremeAir PX06-W30 30-Inch Wide Stainless Steel Wall Mount Range Hood
Today: $831.99
Cavaliere PSL 30-inch Wall Mounted Range Hood
Today: $499.00Sale
Kokols 30- inch Wall Mount Stainless Steel Range Hood Vent
Today: $306.99
Kokols 30-inch Wall Mount Stainless Steel Glass Canopy Range Hood
Today: $355.49Sale
KOBE Premium 30-inch 750 CFM Wall Mount Range Hood in Commercial Grade Stainless Steel
Today: $900.00


text:
Fitting in a good workout during the work day isn't always easy; so why not make sure it's worth it? I try and fit in workouts every other day at the Hamel Recreation Center in between my class schedule. Published in TIME magazine, Jennifer Cohen, a health and fitness expert lists seven workout habits that make your workout more ineffective, and how to fix them. Fixing the following habits will allow you to be a more efficient exerciser: The elliptical – This machine does not flow with the body... Read More
Many people associate health care with high prices. However there are ways to lower your costs, like taking advantage of preventative health services. Many health plans cover the co-insurance and copayments that is associated with preventative services because it costs much less to prevent illness then to treat it. Preventative care can save you money by limiting your sick days and preventing costly doctors visits. Preventative services include things such as flu shots and other immunizations... Read More
Did you know May is Mental Health Awareness month? Mental Health America has named May Mental Health Awareness month and chose this year's theme to be "Mind Your Health". The goal of Mental Health America is to construct public acknowledgement of the importance of mental health on the body and towards overall health. It's important to recognize how the body and mind interact with each other. Poor health on one can greatly affect the other. On the Mental Health America website, there are... Read More
Making time to eat a healthy breakfast can often be put on the backburner. Work is important, but breakfast is just as important- in fact, it's arguably the most important meal of the day! What are the benefits of eating a healthy breakfast? Breakfast gives you your first boost of energy that you will carry throughout the day and help overcome feelings of groggy-ness upon first waking up. Breakfast can give you increased concentration and helps you retain and recall information more efficiently... Read More
Did you know that your chances of getting a foodborne illness this year are 1 in 6? When we eat and cook healthy foods such as vegetables, fruits and lean proteins we are indeed making the right choices by choosing foods that are beneficial to our health. But what's also important is making sure that our food is handled, cooked and stored safely and properly! With the increase in warm weather and tendency for bacteria that cause foodborne illnesses to quickly multiply and spread, be sure to... Read More
May is National Bike Month, and what better way to celebrate the warm weather than enjoying a bike ride in the sun? Here at UNH, we are lucky to have a bike-friendly campus, which is demonstrated by the bike lanes that are provided on the roadways. In addition to the roads, College Woods is a large, popular outdoor spot on campus for biking, along with Kingman Farm which is located on Route 155 in Madbury. This farm contains 234 acres of woodland, and boasts an extensive trail system that is... Read More
As finals are here, now is a great time to talk about procrastination. It may seem like you have plenty of time to study and finish all your assignments, but with a full course load, you will probably need all the time you can get. Procrastinating and getting distracted can put you way behind schedule. What may seem like a quick Facebook break, can easily turn into an hour long process of looking through random people's pictures (we all know it happens) or taking countless Buzzfeed quizzes. All... Read More
For my nutrition class freshman year, I had to wear a pedometer everywhere I went for 3 days. I felt a little silly walking around with it attached to my belt loop but at the end of those three days we were able to average our steps and convert it into miles. It was really cool to see how much I was actually walking, on average about 6 miles a day! That 6 miles was just from my daily activities: walking to classes, to the library, to the dining halls. You may not have time to get to the gym... Read More
The dentist may not be everyone's favorite place to go and it may be tempting to ditch a few visits but skipping on these appointment could cause much more harm than an uncomfortable visit. Just think about all the things we use our mouth for, talking, singing, eating. It's important to keep our mouth healthy so that we can continue using it without any pain. While you may think brushing twice a day will be enough, it's actually not. Dentists are trained to look for warning... Read More
Did you know that in addition to the "Wildcat Plate" every UNH dining hall offers Guiding Stars to help pick the best food options for you? Learn to read the stars and create a healthy plate! They help navigate you to make healthy food choices. Each star represents a certain nutritional value with one being designated as "good", two as "better", and three stars as "best". If a food has no stars that means it does not meet the Guiding Star criteria, or it has not been rated yet. An easy... Read More


text:
Cash-only practice
May/June 2014 Issue
Practice Transformation: Taking the Direct Primary Care Route [Feature]
This practice cured its insurance headaches by switching to a cash-only payment model and charging annual retainer fees.
Feb 2008 Issue
A New Model of Charitable Care: The Robin Hood Practice [Feature]
The author describes the creation of his new not-for-profit practice, which funds the delivery of free care to the uninsured with proceeds from a concierge portion of the practice. He outlines how this setup allows him to provide better care and longer patient visits while maintaining an above-average income.
Jun 2007 Issue
Breaking Even on Four Visits Per Day [Feature]
The author describes how he developed his low-overhead practice and how he is able to offer high-quality care at lower costs to patients, many of whom are uninsured or underinsured.
Feb 2006 Issue
A New Future With an Old Business Model [Feature]
The author describes his move from traditional practice to a low-overhead, cash-only practice.
Feb 2006 Issue
Cashing in on House Calls [Feature]
The author describes her innovative model of practice. She contracts directly with patients rather than with health plans or Medicare, has no office and sees patients in their homes.
Feb 2006 Issue
2,500 Cash-Paying Patients and Growing [Feature]
The article describes Brian Forrest's continued success in his cash-only practice.
Feb 2006 Issue
Cash-Only Practice: Could It Work for You? [Feature]
This article examines the market forces that are driving physicians to opt out of contracts with third-party payers and contract directly with their patients and offers guidance to physicians who might be considering such a move.
Feb 2006 Issue
First-Party Payers: Should You Cut Out the Middle Plan? [From The Editor]
How much of the world can you set right simply by asking your patients to pay for their care?
Oct 2002 Issue
The Elephant in the Room [Editorial]
Complains that boutique medicine gets undeserved attention while truly important issues such as health care for all go undiscussed.
Email Alerts
Don't miss a single issue. Sign up for the free FPM email table of contents and e-newsletter.


text: No recent wiki edits to this page. Skagg is confronted by Balder the Brave. Skagg was a powerful storm giant that was imprisoned in a circle of flame by Odin. Loki freed Skagg and Surtur when Odin traveled to Earth and unleashed them to destroy his father. Skagg would come into conflict with Thor and Balder the Brave during his encounter on Earth. Balder smashed his war club with his enchanted sword but is blasted off his horse by a powerful water spout. Odin used his powers to soften the ground beneath Skagg's feet and he began to sink into the ocean. Surtur used his flame powers to harden the ground beneath Skagg and he was free. Skagg unleashed a powerful storm onto the city until he was struck by a lightning bolt from Thor's enchanted hammer. Odin then drained all of Skagg's evil power with his magical sword and the mighty storm giant fell in battle. CreationSkagg was created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in 1964 and first appeared in Journey Into Mystery # 104. Powers & AbilitiesSkagg is a powerful storm giant with superhuman strength, durability and resistance to injury. Skagg wields a massive, wooden war club which he could funnel water to create a giant water spout. Skagg has the ability to summon powerful storms to wreck havoc on cities or on his foes.


text:
19,294 words (≈ about 1 hour)
When an overpopulated city is exposed to an epidemic of clairvoyance, all hell breaks loose. It's up to the 'wuns above' and Science to fend off the forces of both good and evil in a race against certain annihilation.
Language: English
Written in: 1986
Published: 2010-05-15
Word count: 19,294 words (≈ about 1 hour)
License: Attribution Non-Commercial Share Alike (cc by-nc-sa)
Tags: science fiction, overpopulation, Clairvoyance, telepathy
"Author of curiously engaging novellas. His stories are not driven by action but by mood and metaphysics. His premises often begin with fairly standard, often vaguely science-fiction concepts, but he spins those concepts out into melancholy, thoughtful tales in which he explores the emotion and (often) dislocation that people feel when confronted by something outside their normal experience." - Devon Kappa