Posted: 23.05.09 15:15. Post subject: Send Rafa your quest..
Send Rafa your questions
He's back - the world No 1, Olympic champion, Australian Open champion, Wimbledon champion and winner of the past four French Opens is blogging again exclusively from Roland Garros and waiting to answer your questions.
Since beating Roger Federer in Melbourne, the Spanish superstar has gone from strength to strength with further victories in his home country and Monte Carlo.
But those of you familiar with this blog will know that there is far more to Nadal than just a tennis racket and those biceps. The 22-year-old is a dab hand on the PlayStation, swings a mean golf club and loves to eat gambas with his uncle Toni.
As he aims for an incredible fifth straight title in Paris, he will keep you up to date with daily notes on how he's feeling, what he's doing and who he's been seeing. Nadal will also answer those pressing questions that you've always wanted to ask.
E-mail him now and stay tuned for Nadal's first post.
Posted: 25.05.09 07:54. Post subject: Sunday, May 24, 2009..
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Greetings from Paris - it's good to be back talking to my fans
Hello everyone,
Back in Paris. Back to play Roland Garros and I was kindly asked to write again this blog. Thank you again for the opportunity you bring me and let me say I have to admit that I was very reluctant to write it again. It is not easy to find words or things to talk about during these - hopefully - two weeks. Because that is the thing, I will be writing this while I stay in Paris playing. That's why I hope it is two weeks. If on Tuesday night there is no more blog that would mean I have lost my first match, my first round here at Roland Garros.
So I hope what I say is not taken too serious or to not serious. I am someone who doesn't go too deep to talk about things openly. I can be very open with my team, with my family these weeks, but kind of reserved with the rest of the World. So what I write about is basically about my day, about how's been, what I've done, who did I practice with, what did I eat, what did I do to "kill" those hours that I spend waiting to play my next match or waiting for my next practice... Those things that are part of my work, of my routine, that clearly are not interesting enough to be written by the media in their normal reports. They have to write about a tournament that has 128 man and 128 women that are competing here this week.
So that's why I write this blog, so that my fans, those who want to know everything about what I do, they can be informed.
So, here I am and tomorrow my first round match. I got here already Wednesday night and I am ready to start the tournament. We'll see how it goes.
Posted: 25.05.09 07:57. Post subject: Questions for Rafa: ..
Questions for Rafa: does Roger Federer have a chance at Roland Garros?
Which do you think is the best way to decide the outcome of five set matches at grand slams - by being two games ahead of your opponent in the fifth set, as is the case at Wimbledon, the French Open and the Australian Open or by winning a fifth set tie-break, as is the case at the US Open? Niamh Kearney, Ireland
RN: I think the way it is now with a tie-break in the fifth is good. Imagine how many more games and hours I could have played with Verdasco in Melbourne...
When you have kids in the future, would you like them to play tennis and be a tennis star like yourself? If so would you be their coach? Feng Lu
RN: I would like them to do whatever they want to do, meaning if they decide to become tennis players I will support them. But the most important thing is that it should be their decision. Not sure I will be their coach though...
Did you lose some weight this year (you look a bit slimmer!), and if so, what is the reason for it? Wendy Pan, China
RN: No, I didn't. But some people has said that to me lately. I am the same weight, believe me. Maybe the sleeveless shirt?
What book are you currently reading? Anna, Russia
RN: Good question. I wanted to buy one tomorrow! Didn't bring one here.
Do you have any grass courts in Spain? I see beautiful golf courses and well-kept football pitches and it makes me wonder if you have grass courts? Kathleen
RN: Yes, but not too many. In the end the grass court season is very short and we practice there only those 2 weeks after Roland Garros (or before Wimbledon). Do you sleep well before an important match? Gabi, Germany
RN: Yes, normally I do. But I have to admit that before the Wimbledon final last year I had more difficulty than usual going to sleep.
There seems to be an increasingly amount of attention paid to fashion in tennis these days. What's your favorite Nike outfit that you've worn so far in your career? Julia, London
RN: Actually I like very much the one I will be wearing tomorrow in Roland Garros. What sort of things in life make you lose your temper? Elizabeth, London
RN: Bad education of people. Not sure I get to lose my temper but close.
Do you think Roger Federer has a chance to win the French Open this year, since he just won recently at Madrid? Does this pressure you in any way? Samantha Portillo
RN: Sure he does. I don't think Madrid has anything to do with it since the conditions are completely different due to the altitude and the way the courts were done. But sure he has chances to win.
Post №: 944
Joined: 23.03.09
Location: Милан
Rank:
6
Posted: 25.05.09 10:32. Post subject: http://s45.radikal.r..
Воскресенье 24 Мая
Привет из Парижа- хорошо снова говорить с моими болельщиками
Всем привет
Я вернулся в Париж. Вернулся играть на Ролан Гаррос, меня также любезно попросили снова вести этот блог. Спасибо вам ещё раз за предоставленную возможность, и позвольте мне заметить, я должен признать мне не очень хотелось снова это делать. Совсем не просто находить нужные слова или мысли, о которых рассказывать во время этих, как я надеюсь, двух недель. Вот такие дела, я буду вести блог, пока нахожусь в Париже. Поэтому и надеюсь, что это будет две недели. Если во вторник не выйдет блог, это станет свидетельством моего проигрыша в первом матче, в первом круге Ролан Гаррос.
Я надеюсь все, о чем я говорю, не воспринимается слишком серьезно. Я один из тех, кто не слишком открыто усугубляется в своих разговорах. Я могу быть очень открытым с моей командой, семьей, но я довольно сдержан с остальными. Поэтому в целом я пишу, как провел день, что произошло, чем я занимался, с кем тренировался, что ел, что я делал, чтобы убить время, когда жду на свой матч или на тренировку…..Это часть моей работы, рутины, которые конечно не являются чем-то интересным для прессы чтобы вспоминать об этом в их обзорах. Они должны писать о турнире, на котором играет 128 мужчин и 128 женщин, что соревнуются между собой на этой неделе.
Вот поэтому я и пишу этот блог, чтобы мои болельщики, те, кто хотят знать все, что я делаю, могли быть проинформированы.
Я снова здесь и завтра у меня уже первый матч. Я приехал сюда ещё в среду вечером и готов уже начать играть турнир. Посмотрим как пойдут дела.
Post №: 68
Info: отличное
Joined: 23.04.09
Location: Москва
Rank:
4
Posted: 25.05.09 16:52. Post subject: Ольга Коп пишет: Ну..
Ольга Коп пишет:
quote:
Ну, нравится ему розовый!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ну, тогда и нам нравится! Я увидела сегодня Рафу в новой форме и поначалу была просто в шоке... Первые геймы игры с бразильцем только и смотрела на эту маечку.
Posted: 26.05.09 07:05. Post subject: http://s45.radikal.r..
Tuesday, May 26, 2009 Slow start is nothing to be worried about, I will get better
Hi everyone.
TODAY'S MATCH. Probably with the answers to your questions on this section I have said it all. Not too many questions about my match today and probably it is better like this. I didn't play great, didn't feel that comfortable on the court as I should have but in the end what counts is that I managed to win. I have to say that also last year I had a bad start. Clearly it is not only because of my but also because the way my opponent, Marcos [Daniel] today, played. As I say, I have had slow starts also in previous years and I am fine with it. Sure I need to improve and get better.
MY EARLY ARRIVALS. Some people ask why did I arrive so early to Roland Garros. Well, I arrived already on Wednesday night so that I could get a good practice on Thursday where I played an exhibition match here in Paris. I like to come early to tournaments. There are not that many tournaments where I arrive late, OK... I arrived on Monday to Queen's in the last 3 years... but I have a good excuse there... When I come to back to back tournaments and I managed to get to the finals I obviously arrive a bit late but if not I arrive early to get used to the conditions where I will be playing. Specially at Grand Slams I like to arrive very early.
Posted: 26.05.09 07:10. Post subject: Questions for Rafa: ..
Questions for Rafa: I like being in the pink, what do you think? Questions from Neil Harman, Tennis Correspondent, The Times
What prompted you to decide to play in pink today?
RN: I knew these colours since the moment some months ago Nike showed us the proposed clothing. I like pink, and I specially like this outfit very much. The whole combination I find it really nice. We wear a lot of pink in Spain and I think it is a nice colour. If you look at my website it is also pink for this tournament.
How would you cope with losing a match 6-0, 6-0, as a British girl did on Centre Court, the match before yours, today?
RN: It is tough to lose 6-0, 6-0, and probably to play Centre Court is tougher for some players. The important thing is to always learn.
Questions from readers
What was the toughest part of today's match for you? William, Sydney
RN: It is always different the first round. I always had some kind of troubles. The most difficult part is to try to find the rhythm, my game.
Who do you think are your biggest rivals for this year's title? Sam, Yorkshire
RN: I am really only thinking on my next round on Wednesday. I don't look ahead. So my next rival is my biggest. If you mean the ones that have been playing good and those who should arrive to the finals clearly those are Federer, Djokovic and Murray. But along the way there are many other good players
What would it mean to win a record five titles in a row? Pauline, England
RN: It would mean a lot but simply because it is winning another titleit doesn't really matter if it is 5 or 6 or 4. But in any case I am only thinking on my next match on Wednesday, that's all.
Why do you bite your trophies after you win a tournament? Jake, New York, age 9
RN: It is something I started doing with my first tournament and I kept doing it.
What's the best piece of advice you've ever been given and who was it from? Julie Westbrook-Finch, England
RN: To stay always the same, it was my father who told me that.
What made you finally decide to get your hair cut short? Good Luck. Michelle McCarthy, New Fairfield, CT
RN: I don't know. I just did it. I suppose I am not 18 anymore...
It's great to see you blogging again. Are you on Facebook? Jase Ng, Singapore
RN: No, I am not.
How do you decide which fingers to tape for practices and matches? Christie
RN: I tape the ones that need protection to avoid and cover blisters.
What is your favourite kind of chocolate? Katrin, Germany
RN: With milk.
Do you wash and iron your own clothes? Brandy, Memphis
RN: No, not really. I would lie if I say I do. At tournaments we have a laundry service and they do it.
Do you think you'll ever try playing with a one-handed backhand? Anjali, Mumbai, India
RN: No, never. I always played two handed and that's how I know to play.
Posted: 26.05.09 07:30. Post subject: Рафа ответил на вопр..
Рафа ответил на вопросы для El Mundo (перевод Google) "Djokovic is better on clay than Federer' 1 .- Rafa, I'm not a fan of yours as you think. I admire your intelligence in the game and your spirit to excel. When you play on Saturdays or Sundays, I feel those three hours you need to win in front of the TV and then I move. And now I tell you to get more amazing, that I am a nun, and now am 75 years old. But I still feel as if I was your mother. And I give away a laptop? How would you be a good move. Anyway I like you. And pray for you to win. I am sure your victory at Roland Garros. Un abrazo. Sister Maria Teresa Iniesta.
Thank you very much for the encouragement and follow me. Also very grateful for the words. 2 .- Hi Rafa! By temporadón first congratulate you carry. You are a true Crack! Roland Garros this year seems harder than ever, This year Roland Garros seems more difficult than never, the victory of Federer in Madrid has descended us a little the myth of "Nobody beats Nadal on clay and less Federer" Do youbBelieve that that can be suitable you to endeavor you more and to win the revenge in Paris? A hug.
I do not think so. Always better to win and be confident. Always said that Federer is a great player and it still shows. I think that Madrid is not very significant because the surface conditions and the ball are different. Here the ball is in the racket and feel differently. In Madrid, again, the conditions were so favorable to me though were the same for everyone.
3 .- Why are you saying that this year you are at a lower level on clay than in the past ?
No, I did not say that. I said that I am not playing as well as in previous years but it is also true that my season has been better land than the other 3 years with victories in Monte Carlo, Barcelona and Rome and a final in Madrid. I'm very happy with that and I think it is more difficult to do that to win a Roland Garros, so very happy.
4 .- After the end of the Madrid Masters is much talk about the bounce and the height of the ball depending on the type of track. Given your type of game, what conditions benefit or harm you more hard outdoor track without much height (eg, Open Australia) or track but more height (eg Madrid)? Get the examples because the rival of late is the same. Thank you very much for your reply
I think I benefit more gravel at sea level for my playing style, which does not remove any that I can win or I can beat anyone in Bogota ... But to answer your question perhaps more favorable track takes me outdoors because of the bounce of the ball is still high but I have more control of the ball. Is that, as I say, one thing does not remove the other. The conditions in Madrid were different to those of a gravel track as Monte Carlo and Barcelona. Then clear that Roger can win anyway.
5 .- Who do you think is better on the clay at the moment: Djokovic or Federer? Who do you prefer face in the finals? Tries to be politically incorrect and get wet .... Thank you very much
I think Djokovic. He won in Rome and Roger is the one that has achieved the best results of the two this season on the ground (a finalist in Monte Carlo and Rome champion in Belgrade). I look to the next match and not a hypothetical final. That, to me, is getting wet. The other is not realistic, believe me.
6 .- Hola Rafa. Congratulations on all your triumphs! I wanted to know hoe to do to recover after a game as hard as the semifinals of the Madrid Open and the next day to play a final. I was there and I ended up exhausted just animate! (Rocío)
Jajajaja, thank you very much. All we can do is relax and wait for the body to recover. Of course I have my physiotherapist to help me with stretching and massage with ice making recover physically. 7 .- Hi, I'm Xabier. Having read carefully the thoughts that the other day did your uncle Toni Nadal for this newspaper, shared fully by me, I would like to know how Toni has influenced your life and your career. TobBe always at your side, what good advice have he given you?. Rafa, much luck and in San Sebastian you have uncontributed fan.
Toni has influenced my career because he's been with me since childhood, is my uncle. It is clear that I owe him a lot and helped me in part who I am. That's usually what happens between a coach and his pupil.
8 .- Saludos Rafael, has it been damaging for you be a clay court player and have learned to be a player of all kinds of surfaces? ?
No, quite the opposite. I believe that the clay court player has a more complete tennis and can learn to play in other surfaces because has more technique. It is clear that also always it is difficult to improve in any surface. 9 .- Hello Nadal at the Awards ceremony of the Open de Madrid, Federer seemed happy and so did you in spite of having lost. did you talk about the match? It seemed very lively chat.
The award ceremony is a celebration and that what it should be. We talked about the game, on anecdotes.
10 .- Is it true that this year at Roland Garros balls are less heavy? Does this hurt you?
No, I find them the same. It always depends on conditions. Yesterday and today was very hot and sunny so the balls and then the track conditions are different, faster.
Post №: 39
Joined: 24.03.09
Location: Україна, Черкаси
Rank:
1
Posted: 26.05.09 12:50. Post subject: Молодец Рафа, сейчас..
Молодец Рафа, сейчас его постоянно спрашивают о кондициях в Мадриде, и Рафа спокойно повторяет, что они ему просто не подходили. По идее у организаторов Мадрида должна быть одна мысль: как поменять покрытие на турнире а последнее обяснение насчет формы меня наконец удовлетворило - в Испании действительно носят много красного и розового.
Post №: 949
Joined: 23.03.09
Location: Милан
Rank:
6
Posted: 26.05.09 12:50. Post subject: http://s45.radikal.r..
Понедельник, 25 мая
Медленный старт- не повод для волнения, всё наладится.
Всем привет
Сегодняшний матч. Наверняка отвечая на ваши вопросы, я уже всё рассказал о матче. Конечно, не было много вопросов о моем матче, возможно так и лучше. Я не очень хорошо играл, не чувствовал себя комфортно на корте, но в итоге то что важно, это победа. Должен сказать, также в прошлом году я плохо стартовал на турнире. Понятно, что дело не только во мне, но также и в хорошей игре моего оппонента, Маркоса. Как я говорил, также в прошлых годах я медленно стартовал на турнире, но это ОК. Конечно, мне нужно улучшить игру и играть хорошо.
Мой ранний приезд. Некоторые люди спрашивали меня, почему так рано приехал на РГ. Я приехал в среду, чтобы спокойно потренироваться в четверг, где я также играл показательный матч. Мне нравиться пораньше приезжать на турниры. Не так уж и много есть турниров, куда я приезжаю поздно….. но в последние три года я приезжал на Куинс в понедельник, но у меня было отличное оправдание….Когда я переезжал с турнира на турнир и мог доходить до финалов я без сомнения приезжал немного поздно, но в других случаях я приезжал пораньше чтобы привыкнуть к условиям. В особенности на турниры БШ мне нравится приезжать пораньше.
Post №: 1874
Joined: 22.03.09
Location: Ялта
Rank:
8
Posted: 26.05.09 13:14. Post subject: Вопросы для Рафы: М..
Вопросы для Рафы: Мне нравится быть в розовом, а как думаете вы? Вопросы Neil Harman, теннисного корреспондента The Times
Что побудило в Вас решение играть сегодня в розовом?
РН: Я знал эти цвета уже несколько месяцев с момента, когда Найк показало нам образцы предлагаемой одежды. Я люблю розовый, и по особенному очень люблю эту форму. В таком сочетании она мне кажется очень красивой. В Испании мы носим много розового, и я думаю, этот цвет очень приятный. Если вы посмотрите на мой веб-сайт, он также розовый на время этого турнира. Как бы Вы справились если бы проиграли матч со счетом 6-0 6-0, как это случилось сегодня с британской девушкой на Центральном Корте, в матче, предшествующем вашему?
РН: Это тяжело проиграть матч со счетом 6-0, 6-0, а для некоторых игроков, возможно, еще тяжелее играя на Центральном корте. Очень важно всегда учиться.
Вопросы от читателей Какой момент сегодняшнего матча был самым сложным для тебя? William, Sydney РН: Первый раунд всегда проходит по разному. У меня всегда были в них какие то проблемы. Самое сложное попытаться найти ритм, свою игру. Кого ты считаешь своим главным конкурентом в борьбе за титул этого года? Sam, Yorkshire
РН: Прежде всего я думаю о своем следующем раунде в среду. Я не загадываю наперед. Поэтому следующий мой соперник – самый главный. Если Вы имеете в виду тех, кто хорошо играют и тех, кто скорее всего дойдет до финала это Федерер, Маррей и Джокович. Но по пути есть и много других хороших игроков. Что для Вас будет значить выиграть пять титулов подряд? Pauline, England
РН: Это будет значит очень много, но лишь потому, что это очередной титул и не важно 5й он, 6й или 4й. Но в любом случае я думаю лишь о моем следующем матче в среду, вот и все.
Почему ты кусаешь свои трофеи, после победы на турнире? Jake, New York, 9 лет
РН: Я сделал это выиграв свой первый турнир [Мастерс – прим.] после чего продолжил делать это.
Каким был лучший совет, который ты получил и кто был этим человеком? Julie Westbrook-Finch, England
РН: Всегда оставаться самим собой, это сказал мне мой отец.
Почему ты все-таки, наконец, решил так коротко остричь свои волосы? Удачи. Michelle McCarthy, New Fairfield, CT
РН: Я не знаю. Я просто сделал это. Мне ведь больше не 18...
Очень здорово видеть снова твой блог. Ты есть в Facebook? [сайт типа нашего «контакта» - прим.] Jase Ng, Singapore
РН: Нет. Как ты решаешь какие пальцы тейпировать для тренировок и матчей? Christie
РН: Я тейпирую пальцы, которые нуждаются в защите, чтобы избежать волдырей.
Какой твой любимый шоколад? Katrin, Germany
РН: Молочный.
Ты сам стираешь и гладишь свою одежду? Brandy, Memphis
РН: Нет, это не реально. Я солгал бы, если сказал что сам делаю это. На турнирах у нас есть прачечный персонал, они делают это.
Думаете ли Вы, когда-нибудь пробовать играть одноручным бэкхендом? Anjali, Mumbai, India
РН: Нет, никогда. Я всегда играл его двумя руками, и это то, как я привык играть.
Posted: 26.05.09 14:57. Post subject: Натали Натусик, спа..
Натали Натусик, спасибо за перевод!
quote:
Что побудило в Вас решение играть сегодня в розовом?
РН: Я знал эти цвета уже несколько месяцев с момента, когда Найк показало нам образцы предлагаемой одежды. Я люблю розовый, и по особенному очень люблю эту форму. В таком сочетании она мне кажется очень красивой. В Испании мы носим много розового, и я думаю, этот цвет очень приятный. Если вы посмотрите на мой веб-сайт, он также розовый на время этого турнира.
я все равно считаю абсурдностью переделать сайт в розовый и розовую форму..повседневная одежда - к этому отношусь спокойно..на некоторых мужчинах даже нравится розовое одеяние! но не для формы мужской он (представила футболистов в розовой форме ).. но раз Рафе нравится, против этого не попрешь.. буду смотреть "сквозь форму"
Post №: 19
Joined: 17.05.09
Location: Ярославль
Rank:
2
Posted: 26.05.09 22:17. Post subject: yuliaRF1 Натали спа..
yuliaRF1Натали спасибо за переводы! :** если Рафе нра розовый, то я его полностью поддерживаю. у меня папа жутко обстебал форму, а сам в розовом свитере точно такого же оттенка разгуливает
Post №: 96
Joined: 22.03.09
Location: жизненные реалии
Rank:
2
Posted: 26.05.09 23:02. Post subject: девочки, спасибо все..
девочки, спасибо всем за блоги и вопросы
quote:
There seems to be an increasingly amount of attention paid to fashion in tennis these days. What's your favorite Nike outfit that you've worn so far in your career? Julia, London
RN: Actually I like very much the one I will be wearing tomorrow in Roland Garros.
quote:
What prompted you to decide to play in pink today?
RN: I knew these colours since the moment some months ago Nike showed us the proposed clothing. I like pink, and I specially like this outfit very much. The whole combination I find it really nice. We wear a lot of pink in Spain and I think it is a nice colour. If you look at my website it is also pink for this tournament.
форма просто изумительная (имхо ) а с теми напульсниками и банданой вообще бомбезно
Posted: 27.05.09 06:46. Post subject: http://s45.radikal.r..
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
On the practice court looking to put things right
TODAY: Not much today, just the usual day off after a match. It is true that after the first round match, the tension is not the same as it was last year on the day off before the final. IT is a day that I thought about the match yesterday. Analyze what I did right (not too many things) and what I did wrong. Try to correct things. I went to practice with that mentality, thinking on the things I have to improve. It is important to have a close look at things. Tennis is not maths and you just can't see things and automatically change them, you need to work on them at the practice.
MY TEAM: Now that the tournament has just started, I wanted to talk about the people here with me. I have most of my team here with me this week. Each one of them has its role and they also support me when is needed. My coach and uncle Toni, my physio Rafel Maymo are the ones that came with me on Wednesday night last week. Carlos Costa, my manager, came on Thursday morning and left. He is back in Paris now and I am sure he would have loved to be in Rome tomorrow watching his team FC Barcelona. Benito, "filete Barbadillo", my PR guy came for the weekend and left Sunday night. He is coming back tomorrow. The doctor, Angel Cotorro, is also here and is a great help in case things go wrong with any injury that might happen. Roy Sakaguchi from Nike is also here, he is part of the team as well as Tuts who will be coming later in the tournament if I am still here.
Posted: 27.05.09 06:49. Post subject: Questions for Rafa: ..
Questions for Rafa: who will you be supporting in the Champions League final?
Questions from readers
We know you support Real Madrid and Manchester United, but your uncle famously played for Barcelona. So who will you be supporting in the Champions League final? Jackie, London
RN: Hi Jackie, tricky question? The answer is easy, I am Spanish so I would like to see the Spanish team win. I like ManU a lot and I always play with them at Play Station but Barcelona is Spain so I will cheer for them. If they would be playing another team not Spanish, I would support them. It will be an interesting match.
Where do you plan to watch the match? Kate, Wigan
RN: Well I have been scheduled last match tomorrow so it could be I watch it on-site after my match. If not I plan to watch it at my hotel with my team and other players staying there as well.
Who's better at football, you or Andy Murray? Robert, Wapping
RN: I don't know. Good question. We both like football a lot and I see him paying foot-tennis too. He's pretty good.
Who do you want Real Madrid to buy this summer? Pepe, Valencia
RN: I don't know. I have my favorite players but this has to be done professionally and with an idea of team according to budgets. Too difficult to answer like this.
What do you think of the Harry Potter movies? Have you watched any of them? Nicole Chia, Singapore
RN: I have seen a couple, not all of them. I liked them.
Do you think that gamesmanship is a necessary part of sporting success. Emma
RN: Absolutely. this is very important. In the end sport is a game, tennis is a game. When it's over, it's over and the competition stays on-court. Do you that Roger Federer becoming a father will have an impact on his tennis (negative or positive)? Julia
RN: I don't know, you wuld have to ask him and ask those who have been tennis players and had babies. I would think so in a positive way.
What are some of your favourite websites that you like to visit? Zainab Sairafi
RN: I always look at the press, sport press to see what's going on. I also look at other websites of things that I like. Are you happy with changes made this year by the ATP? Is there a way to make the schedule less demanding for players? Gwen
RN: Not many changes to be honest. The calendar last year was a bit crazy, but specially for being an Olympic year. I would have liked Monte Carlo to stay as a Mandatory Event but in the end almost every top player was there anyway.
You have said that you really like your new pink outfit. Does it disappoint you that you can only wear white at Wimbledon? Ashvini, London
RN: No, it doesn't. I like this outfit but I also know that Wimbledon has it's rules so I respect that.
Post №: 1876
Joined: 22.03.09
Location: Ялта
Rank:
8
Posted: 27.05.09 12:10. Post subject: Вопросы для Рафы: З..
Вопросы для Рафы: За кого ты будешь болеть в финале Лиги Чемпионов?
Вопросы от читателей:
Мы знаем, что ты болеешь за Реал Мадрид и Манчестер Юнайтед, но твой дядя классно играл за Барселону. Так, за кого ты будешь болеть в финале Лиги Чемпионов? Jackie, London
РН: Привет, Джеки, хитрый вопрос. Ответ простой, я испанец, поэтому я хотел бы чтобы победила испанская команда. Мне очень нравится ManU и я всегда играю с ними в Play Station, но Барселона это Испания, поэтому я буду болеть за них. Если они будут играть с другой командой, не испанской, я буду поддерживать их. Это будет интересный матч.
Где ты планируешь смотреть матч? Kate, Wigan
РН: Ну, завтра мой матч намечен последним запуском, так что можно будет посмотреть его на сайте после моего матча. Если нет, я планирую посмотреть его в своем отеле со своей командой и другими игроками, находящимися там.
Кто лучше играет в футбол, ты или Энди Маррей? Robert, Wapping
РН: Я не знаю. Хороший вопрос. Мы оба очень любим футбол и я так же видел как он играет в фут-теннис. Он очень хорош.
Кого бы ты хотел видеть в качестве трансфера Мадрида этим летом? Pepe, Valencia
РН: Я не знаю. У меня есть любимые игроки, но это должно быть сделано профессионально, с мыслью о команде в соответствии с бюджетом. Очень трудно вот так сразу ответить.
Что ты думаешь о фильмах о Гарри Потере? Ты смотрел их? Nicole Chia, Singapore
РН: Я видел пару из них, не все. Мне понравилось.
Считаешь ли ты, что игра является важной составляющей спортивного успеха? Emma
РН: Безусловно. Это очень важно. В конце концов спорт это игра, теннис это игра. Когда все окончено, это окончено и соперничество остается на корте.*
Как ты думаешь, когда Роджер станет отцом это отразится на его теннисе (отрицательно или положительно)? Julia
РН: Я не знаю, Вам нужно спросить об этом его, или у тех теннисистов, у которых есть малыши. Я думаю все-таки положительно.
Какие твои любимые веб-сайты, которые ты любишь посещать? Zainab Sairafi
РН: Я всегда смотрю новости, спортивную прессу чтобы быть в курсе того, что происходит. Я так же захожу на другие сайты вещей, которые мне нравятся.
Ты доволен новшествами, внесенными АТР в этом году? И есть ли способ сделать график менее напряженным для игроков? Gwen
РН: Таких шансов немного, если честно. Календарь прошлого года был немного сумасшедшим, но лишь потому, что это был год Олимпийских игр. Мне бы хотелось, чтобы Монте-Карло оставался обязательным турниром, но, в любом случае, все топ-игроки будут играть там.
Ты сказал что тебе очень нравится твоя новая розовая форма. Тебя огорчает, что на Уимблдоне ты можешь одеть только белое? Ashvini, London
РН: Нет. Мне нравится эта форма. Но я так же знаю что на Уимблдоне есть такое правило и я уважаю его.
*билась-билась над этим вопросом и ответом, но так и не уверена в его правильности...
Post №: 952
Joined: 23.03.09
Location: Милан
Rank:
6
Posted: 27.05.09 13:59. Post subject: http://s45.radikal.r..
Вторник, 26 мая
Улучшая игру на тренировке
Сегодня: Ничего особенного сегодня не было, обычный день после матчевого дня. Верно, что давление после первого матча не такое как оно было в день перед финальным матчем в прошлом году . Вчера я думал о матче. Анализировал, что я сделал правильно (не так уж много было хорошего) и что я делала неправильно. Пытался соединить всё. Я пошел на тренировку с этим настроем, думая о том, что мне нужно улучшить. Важно учитывать детали. Теннис это не математика, и ты просто так не можешь заметить и автоматически изменить что-то, нужно работать над ними на тренировке.
Моя команда: поскольку турнир только начался, хотел бы вам рассказать о людях которые пребывают здесь со мной. Большая часть моей команды здесь со мной на этой неделе. У каждого из них есть своя роль и они меня поддерживают когда в этом есть необходимость. Мой тренер и дядя, Тони, физиотерапевт Рафаель Маимо приехали со мной в среду вечером ещё на прошлой неделе. Карлос Коста, мой менеджер был здесь в четверг утром, но потом уехал. Сейчас он вернулся в Париж, но я уверен что ему бы очень хотелось завтра находиться в Риме, где играет его любимая Барселона. Бенито, “filete Barbadillo", приезжал сюда на выходные и уехал в воскресенье вечером. Завтра он вернется. Врач, Анхель Которро, также находиться здесь, он очень нам помогает в случае если что-то идет или если случится травма. Roy Sakaguchi из Найк, также с нами, он часть команды, также как и Татс, который приедет позже на турнир, если я конечно ещё здесь буду.
моя подруга говорит, ей сегодня приснилось как она спрашивала меня кто выиграл, и я её ответила Манчестер Если бы это был мой сон, то вероятность бы была 50 -50, а от какая вероятность ее сна- я не знаю.
Posted: 28.05.09 09:54. Post subject: http://s45.radikal.r..
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Congratulations to 'perfect' Barca, but tennis will always come first
Hi everyone, TENNIS AND FOOTBALL I am writing this blog after the Champions League final. All of us staying here have watched it here at the hotel lobby and the first thing I want to do is congratulate all the Barcelona team. What a fantastic team. The closest thing to perfection!!!. And I say this first since it looks like this is the only thing people were really caring today was about the football match. Sure I wanted to watch it, you know I love football and I watch a lot but it was kind of funny to have questions in the press conference about me wanting to change the match today to play earlier.
I am a professional tennis player and first thing is first for me. The main thing today was to win my match and then, if I had time, watch the football match on TV. In the end I did both. I managed to win and went back to the hotel to watch the match.
DAY OFF To be honest with you, the only thing I did really care about was to finish the match today. At some point in the third set, it started to rain. I was saying, please, please, let's hope we can finish the match since in these kind of tournaments it is important to have that day off to practice and improve those things that didn't work well. If the match would have not been finished then you have to go back tomorrow, warm up for those games and who knows. If you win, you really have that kind of day that doesn't allow you to do much.
TOMORROW As I say day off with no match but early practice at 11 am to continue to try to improve things. After that I have a promotional action with the Balearic Islands who apart from being my homeland I also support them and will meet with them at 4 pm together with International media.
Posted: 28.05.09 10:03. Post subject: Questions for Rafa: ..
Questions for Rafa: how does it feel to break Borg's record at Roland Garros
Because you have never lost a match at Roland Garros do you feel more and more pressure the longer you remain undefeated? Steve, Yorkshire RN: No, not really. I feel the same. I only look at what comes ahead of me, not behind.
Is your left arm bigger and stronger than your right? Claire, Berkshire RN: Now that I look at it it is bigger...
How does it feel to beat Bjorn Borg's record of 28 unbeaten matches in Paris? Caverley, Chichester RN: I actually don't pay too much attention to that. I suppose those numbers are for the day when I retire. Now I only look at this tournament. Do you plan to go to South Africa next year to watch Spain try and win the World Cup? Javidan, New York RN: I would love to but I don't think I'll have time.
You have won so many titles in your career, what makes you keep wanting to win more? Lorraine, UK RN: I love the competition and I love tennis. That gives me the motivation and also the fact that I see I can win.
According to Nikolay Davydenko the courts in Paris are much faster this year. Do you agree? Leana RN: I don't really feel much difference but the conditions today where a bit heavier due to the weather.
What is the bravest thing you've ever done? Trisha Slade, London RN: I don't really know. I suppose what I do in tennis?
Do you use the same locker as you have done in previous years? Zainab RN: Yes I do, or at last nearby... Let's put it this way, same area...
If you were stuck on a desert island name one thing you'd want to have with you. It can't be a person. Louise RN: I prefer not be stuck on that... :-)
Post №: 1910
Joined: 22.03.09
Location: Ялта
Rank:
8
Posted: 28.05.09 10:57. Post subject: Вопросы для Рафы: Ка..
Вопросы для Рафы: Каково это побить рекорд Борга на Ролан Гаррос ?
Покскольку ты не проиграл на Ролан Гаррос ни одного матча, ты чувствуешь все большее и большее давление, чем дольше остаешься непобедимым? Steve, Yorkshire
РН: Нет. Я чувствую себя так же. Я смотрю лишь на то, что ожидает меня впереди, а не то, что осталось позади.
Твоя левая рука больше и сильнее правой? Claire, Berkshire
РН: Сейчас когда смотрю на нее, больше...
Каково это побить рекорд Борга из 28ми побед подряд в Париже? Caverley, Chichester
РН: На самом деле я не уделяю этому слишком много внимания. Возможно я задумаюсь об этих цифрах когда завершу карьеру. Сейчас мои мысли только о турнире.
Ты планируешь отправиться в Южную Африку в следующем году чтобы болеть за Испанию на Кубке Мира? Javidan, New York
РН: С удовольствием бы поехал, но не думаю что найду для этого время.
Ты выиграл столько титулов в своей карьере, что заставляет тебя побеждать снова и снова? Lorraine, UK
РН: Я люблю соревнования и я люблю теннис. Это дает мне мотивацию, а так же сам факт видеть, что я могу победить.
По словам Николая Давыденко корты в Париже гораздо быстрее, нежели в прошлом году. Ты согласен? Leana
РН: Я не чувствую большой разницы, но сегодня, из-за погоды, условия были немного тяжелее.
Какой самый смелый поступок, который ты совершил в жизни? Trisha Slade, London
РН: Я не знаю, на самом деле. Возможно то, что я совершаю в теннисе.
Ты используешь тот же шкафчик, который использовал в прошлые годы? Zainab
РН: Да, или тот, что рядом. Скажем так, в том же районе...
Если бы ты застрял на необитаемом острове, какую бы одну вещь ты хотел бы имень при себе? Это не может быть человек. Louise
Post №: 961
Joined: 23.03.09
Location: Милан
Rank:
6
Posted: 28.05.09 14:19. Post subject: http://s45.radikal.r..
Четверг, 28 Мая
Поздравляю “идеальную” Барселону, но всё таки теннис для меня стоит на первом месте
Всем привет,
Теннис и футбол
Пишу вам после финала Лиги Чемпионов. Мы все смотрели матч в лобби отеле и первое что мне хочется сделать, так это поздравить Барселону. Какая же они фантастическая команда. Они самые близкие к совершенству. И я говорю, что они первые кто близок к совершенству, поскольку кажется сегодня единственное в чем они были заинтересованы был футбольный матч. Конечно, мне хотелось его посмотреть, вы знаете, как я люблю футбол и я часто смотрю, но было довольно смешно получать вопросы на ПК о том, что я хотел перенести свой матч немного пораньше. Я профессиональный игрок и теннис является первым для меня. Главным сегодня было выиграть мой матч, и уже потом, если у меня будет время, смотреть футбол. В итоге мне удалось сделать и то и другое. Мне удалось выиграть и потом вернуться в отель смотреть финал.
Свободный день
Честно говоря, единственное, что меня очень сильно волновало, было закончить матч сегодня. В какой то момент, в 3 сете, начал падать дождь. Я говорил про себя, пожалуйста, и надеялся что смогу закончить матч, поскольку на таких турнирах очень важно иметь свободный день для тренировки и улучшения тех компонентов игры, которые не были успешными в матче. Если бы я не доиграл матч, пришлось бы продолжать завтра, разминаться для той пары геймов и никогда не знаешь чего ожидать. Если ты выиграешь, то в итоге в этот день уже не так много всего можно успеть сделать.
Завтра
Как я уже говорил, у меня будет свободный день, тренировка будет очень рано, в 11 утра, для того чтобы я продолжал улучшать игру. Затем у меня будет рекламное событие с Balearic Islands, которые являются моей родиной и в 4 мы вместе встречаемся с международными СМИ.
Posted: 28.05.09 23:30. Post subject: Вопросы для El Mundo..
Вопросы для El Mundo (перевод Google) 'This year will not arrive so tired at the U.S. Open'
1 .- Rafa, first of all thank you for bringing us joy every Sunday with your victories. You are our pride. I have a question for you: If you could go back to the past and play the final of Roland Garros with any winner who has preceded you in the past with whom you'd like to confront (and win of course)? Borg, Wilander, Bruguera, Agassi, Kuerten, Moya, Agassi, Costa, Ferrero ...? I wish you much luck in this year's Roland Garros ...
Thank you very much. As regards to your question, I always said that since you can not go back I'm realistic and I am faced with those who today are my rivals. With many of the entries that I have played (Moya, Agassi, Ferrero and Costa).
2 .- Rafa, in all honesty I would like to answer: Do you read the statements recently made with respect to your opponents tactics to be employed to beat? (Ex: Higueras, a former coach of Federer, said that "as in Madrid, Roger should come to shorten the points, to not let Nadal get into his rhythm and "). Will takes up this kind of thing to make a pre-match analysis with Toni or do you focus only on strategy on what you do on the field? I hope you answer me.
I always answer honestly. I often read the newspapers but I do not pay attention to such statements to which you mention. I imagine that when they make such statements is the logic that they will see that nothing happens. It is clear that the other players can analyze my play as I can analyze theirs. It's normal. But in the end, then on the court, we should run and play and that is what we also analyzed before matches. The best way to play. 3 .- Hola Rafa: You're one of the most beloved of Spain according to a survey published by the WORLD in July 2008. Do you think people like you your game, your success or your way of being (manners)?
Thank you very much. I do not know. I imagine that people know and see that I always fight to the end and I try to give everything on the court.
4 .- Hola Rafa, a thousand congratulations for all your great achievements. If you ever played mix, Who would you like to play with?
No, I have not played mixed 'Grand Slam' (which is where they play only). These tournaments are a lot of voltage and current and pending in other competitions such as the mixed doubles and men may bring complications for my preparation or calendar.
5.-I am not going to praise you, would extend. Many times we comment at home reason the first serve always is negotiated and is not alternate. I'll explain myself: you play with Feliciano, the first serve is negotiated (obviously from zero since would not count the past), if remove you, the following party would touch him; the following one to you, and so on. On the part of the organization is easy to carry the control and if is good to remove the first one (or to reduce) that all the players have or they enjoy the same advantage. Luck for your personal life.
Is easier. It wins the lottery and decides whether to remove or subtract. This is how we do it.
6 .- Hello Rafael! Congratulations on your career. I would like to know what your plans will be for your future once you retire from professional tennis. Do you think you will somehow tied to this world, for example as a coach?
Thank you very much. The truth is that not even I consider this kind of thing. Really. 7 .- Hi Rafa! I'm Melina from Córdoba, Argentina, first of all I congratulate you for everything you achieved in your career and also what has been that insurance will not be little. My question: I wanted to know if you thought your team to sacrifice any of the tournaments on clay or any kind of Canada or the Cincinnati Masters to try to get a little more energy to the U.S. Open? I know it's difficult. I send a kiss to you and in me you have who follows to you as you are!.
Difficult to skip a tournament on clay. They are quite a few over the years. As of Montreal and Cincinnati, I do not think is possible because the schedule forces you to play them. This year's Olympics will be without something better and we should not get so crushed anyway. We'll see anyway as the season goes. You should go tournament to tournament, game to game.
8 .- Hola Rafa. First, you tell that I love your new shirt. Have given a twist to your usual image and now you're the tennis player with the flashy clothes of the circuit. Who decides a change of clothes? Nike gives you several models and you and your team choose? Thanks for answering and do not ever change. Mary.
Thank you very much. Usually it is a decision of me and my manager Carlos Costa, based on proposals that Nike makes. Whenever we see a very early design and choose what we like best. But the designs are made based on my tastes.
9 .- Hola Rafa. Do you follow women's tennis? Got a favorite among them, as player, of course? What do you think of the level of the Williams sisters? Greetings from American . Darío.
Sure it do. Favorite depends what you refer. I want Spaniard to win, of course. The Williams have already shown what they are, very good. 10 .- Hola, Rafa! Congratulations on your work and thanks for bringing so much enjoy it. I wonder how or to what extent one can influence tennis player during the game, you're the favorite of the public or not . You've seen in both situations, how do you get influenced? (Clara)
Hombre, playing at home and the public does influence because they help you overcome difficult times and they also enjoy the victories. For me it is very important. But as professionals we need to know to be there in times when the public will not support you.
Posted: 28.05.09 23:37. Post subject: Рафа, при момощи yul..
Рафа, при помощи yuliaRF1 пишет:
quote:
Свободный день Честно говоря, единственное, что меня очень сильно волновало, было закончить матч сегодня. В какой то момент, в 3 сете, начал падать дождь. Я говорил про себя, пожалуйста, и надеялся что смогу закончить матч, поскольку на таких турнирах очень важно иметь свободный день для тренировки и улучшения тех компонентов игры, которые не были успешными в матче. Если бы я не доиграл матч, пришлось бы продолжать завтра, разминаться для той пары геймов и никогда не знаешь чего ожидать. Если ты выиграешь, то в итоге в этот день уже не так много всего можно успеть сделать
Cпасибо за перевод, Юля. Кстати, не зря некоторые из наших форумчан бузили насчет того, что вечером поставили матч с Рафой. Вот один из ответов, почему это делать не желательно.
Posted: 29.05.09 07:07. Post subject: http://s45.radikal.r..
Friday, May 29, 2009 Anxious for revenge on Lleyton for a golf thrashing
Hello everyone,
Had a nice day today. I like the fact to play the match the day before and today simply wake up thinking I have to go to the tournament site to practice and work on some specific things. I say this since yesterday with the rain there we could have not finished the match. I said it yesterday and I repeat it today. It is very inconvenient at a tournament like this to have to play everyday. Like this, with no play today, things are easier since I just got to the courts in the morning, practiced at 11am, ate, and attended a promotional activity with the Balearic Islands people and government.
You all know, the ones who follow me, that I am always referring to the Balearic Island as my favourite place for holidays. I really like the place, and I am lucky to have been born there since I have it right there. Sure that there are a lot of places out there in the world that are really nice and interesting, but I am honest, very honest when I say that my favorite place are the Balearic Islands. I find it a place where you can find almost everything. Nice weather, nice locations like beaches, cities, culture, food, nice people... in the end this is it. So believe me I am honest when I say this. And I went to their gig today since I am also collaborating with them in the promotion of the islands. Tourism is very important there, the main industry, so it just makes sense.
Well, tomorrow more competition for me and a great match for the fans. I play Lleyton Hewitt who by the way I like a lot as a person. I have had the chance to know him these years I have been playing and he has always been very nice to me, and I am very thankful. Maybe the only exception is when we played golf last year in Miami and he literally killed me... Since them we haven't played again and I am really looking forward to that. But seriously now, tomorrow it will be a great match, I am sure, and I am really excited about this one.
Posted: 29.05.09 07:11. Post subject: Questions for Rafa: ..
Questions for Rafa: how I once failed PE and my hopes of following in Tiger's footsteps
Questions from The Times
If Real Madrid had been playing in last night's Champions League final would you have found it more difficult to keep your mind on tennis? Neil
RN: No, it would have been the same. As I said yesterday I am a tennis professional and first thing is first. The most important thing for me is this tournament I am playing and if I have time for other things then I do them. Still I think everything is compatible.
What is your first memory of watching or even playing sport as a child? Tim
RN: I always, since I was a little kid that I don't even remember I have been playing. Sport is fun, and I played to do sports, for fun.
How hard was it to miss last season's Davis Cup final through injury? Did you find it painful to watch? Ben
RN: It is tough, for sure. I would have loved to be there and at the Masters in Shanghai. It was very unfortunate for me although the team did great and won. I am happy to have contributed at the ties I played, specially in Madrid. Questions from readers
Did you feel sorry for Manchester United after their defeat by Barcelona last night, because I know you also like them? Beccy, Wales
RN: I do like them, but Barcelona is a Spanish team so I wanted them to win. I am happy for them. Lleyton Hewitt fights as hard as anyone on court and never gives up, are you preparing yourself for a battle? David, Scotland
RN: sure, I am always preparing my self. This is exactly what I say to every media who asks me about a potential final. Lleyton is a great player with a great history on this sport and it won't be easy that's for sure. How are your knees at the moment? Kate, Liverpool
RN: Very good, thanks. I am feeling good. If you could change one rule in tennis what would it be? Isle, Hong Kong
RN: I think I am going to keep this one to my self and discuss it at the next player council meeting. It is not just one... Do you find it hard to balance your tennis life with you personal life? Divya Babu
RN: No, right now I know that tennis is most part of my life and I accept it. I also have my personal life and I only ask for respect. Other than the Spanish players, who are you closest to on the tour? Eleinee Lopez, Melbourne
RN: Argentinian Juan "Pico" Monaco is one of my best friends.
I’ve noticed this year you are carrying an extra bag onto court for your matches. Why? Juanita
RN: No, I always carried my Babolat racquet bag and the Nike bag with some extra clothes and shoes. What was your worst subject at school? Ashvini, London
RN: Let me tell you that once I got an F at Physical Education... Many great players become coaches once they retire, although I hope you are a long way from retirement, have you considered what you might do? Would you like to become a coach perhaps? Sam, Cornwall
RN: No, not yet and I am not sure I could do it right... If you had to describe yourself in one word what would you say? Nafeea, Trinidad and Tobago
RN: Normal
Any chance of you turning into a professional golfer once you're done with tennis? Esperia, London
RN: I probably would like to but I think it will be too difficult. I just play for fun.
Posted: 30.05.09 10:06. Post subject: http://s45.radikal.r..
Saturday, May 30, 2009 I am starting to get back to my best at Roland Garros
Hi everyone,
Short one today since I got pretty late to the hotel to do this blog tonight. I was supposed to come back from the site pretty fast after the match and all the media conference and interviews but stayed there doing some work with my physio Rafa Maymo. In the end I got back around 8.30 pm and by the time we went out for dinner it was 10 pm. The time simply goes very fast (in all senses) so here I am at almost 1 am writing this blog.
We went to one of my favourite restaurants here in Paris and had one of the best Tuna steaks I have ever eaten. Really good. We were 10 people tonight so what it looked like a late dinner with only a few turned into a typically Spanish late dinner with 10 people around a table. It was good that it was that late otherwise I am sure we would have not found place to eat almost anywhere.
I normally don't eat that late, maximum to go out is 9.30 pm which is late for most of you, right? By the way, I remember an interview I did earlier in Rome this year and when a journalist asked me about the things that get me upset and I said jokingly that my uncle Toni wants me to go earlier for dinner so I can come back to the hotel earlier to get more rest. Today Toni was with us and he didn't complain much for going so late :-). In the end there are not that many things that get me upset... and that was reported every where....
Regarding my match, I really felt great today on court. As I said in the past days, the slow start that I had was nothing new. I always had these kind of starts here and now with the first 3 matches played I am feeling more comfortable playing.
Posted: 30.05.09 10:10. Post subject: Ask Rafa: dealing wi..
Ask Rafa: dealing with scary plane journeys and tuna sandwiches
Questions from The Times
Were you surprised at how comfortably you beat Lleyton Hewitt today? RN: I think I played a very solid match and played very comfortable. I am really finding my best tennis.
Do you feel you are beginning to get back to your best after today's win? RN: I have been practicing really well since I got here but when it got to the matches I have been not that consistent playing well. I think today, specially in the third set, I really found my best tennis back. I hope it stays and continues.
Robin Soderling, the No 23 seed, is next up, what do you know about him? RN: He is a dangerous player and in Rome we played a very good match,. The result was not as easy as it looks.
Who of your rivals has impressed you most this week so far? RN: I think that it is too early to pay attention to this. The tournament is long and there are still days to go that could change many things.
Questions from the fans What was your most disappointing moment on the tennis court? Javidan Karkaria RN: When you lose something that you feel you could have won.
Since you are on the road all the time, how many suitcases of clothes do you have to lug around? Amy, Houston, Texas RN: I travel with a lot of stuff to be honest with you. Sometimes too much and I have to pay many times overweight... It is not only clothes but also other things such as computer, DVDs, play station, etc.
What is the one piece of advice you would give to youngsters who want to take up tennis as a professional? Shani, Cheshire RN: To have fun, and to have fun. This is the most important thing. Then to practice hard and believe on what they are doing.
You like playing tennis on clay, but do you also like making things with clay (i.e., pottery?). Have you ever used a potter's wheel? Paul, London RN: No, not really. Never tried.
Is there any difference in the way you approach a five-set match from the way you approach a three-set match? Do you eat differently, or pace yourself differently? Patricia, New York RN: Absolutely. There is a big difference since both physically and mentally the match is very different.
What is your favourite sandwich filling? Julie Westbrook-Finch RN: Tuna, but I am not a big sandwich eater.
You looked pretty shocked when a cat ran across the court in Doha this year. Do you have any pets? Judith Bell RN: No, I don't.
Have you ever been on a scary airplane ride? Amanda, United States RN: Yeah, sure , sometimes. Lot of bounces but I have been told that there is no real danger on that. It is very safe to travel by plane.
Posted: 30.05.09 19:28. Post subject: Вопросы для El Mundo..
Вопросы для El Mundo (перевод Google) 'I Do not think that public is against me'
1 .- Hi Rafa, What do you think is more important in one sudden death, have a very strong serve or have nerves of steel? Thank you very much and good luck. Niamh in Ireland ....
I think the two at a time is ideal, but if you do not have nerves of steel you will also improve the serve.
2 .- Hola Rafa! I am Camila from Argentina, a big fan of yours and I congratulate you for the great start of season you're having. My question is: How do you stay focused and calm throughout the match, especially when things do not go as you expect? It is admirable that you put the claw on each encounter.
Is important because tennis is a very mental sport. For me the important thing is to think about each point. It helps to be concentrated and then think of the time. What has been done, right or wrong, is part of the past and we must play the next point.
3 .- Due the media you have passed to be a very large player of tennis to an idol of masses how you've lived through that change? Must find it difficult to relate with people you do not know or know anything about you. Did you spent, what you feel in such cases?
It's what plays when you're at a high level in a sport like tennis, which has a lot of arrival. The issue is that many people you in a way that almost makes you feel different. The important thing is not to lose and know where you are at every moment. 4 .- Hi Rafa, thanks for the example you give to athletes Spaniards. What Would percentage in tennis: 1-mentality and attitude. 2-Tech. 3-Strategy ", a greeting, and good luck next game is always the most important ...
I believe that all is important. With mentality and attitude can enjoy itself more than the technique and also a strategy can be carries out already studied. But is not this only because also you depend on the opponent.
5 .- Hi Rafa! The first thing to say that I love your new clothes. Every day and play better (the match with Djokovic in Madrid, I was at the Magic Box and it was great). Here is my question: When you face as a tournament of Roland Garros, are you going match by match or is inevitable to think about your possible clashes in subsequent rounds (quarters, semis) and think a strategy?
I go match by match. Another thing would be a mistake, really. 6 . Rafa, do you think you've improved over the years-your strokes -like volley and that's going to allow you to finish many points much faster, saving precious energy then eventually need for a marathon matches or for subsequent rounds?
It is normal that over time will be learning. There is always something you can improve and I said that was true. Many people thought I just said it but it's a reality. 7.- Hello Rafa. You have us to all behind encouraging you. A question on the balls. Why no player repeats a serve with the same ball that has just served with? When you do a second service or repeat, always reject the ball that have just used. Thanks and spirit!!. .
Thank you very much. Depends on the type of service you want to do. Sometimes we want to find new ball speed, a fast and remove others that are seeking more beads used to make the change and get slower. 8 .- Hola Rafa! How is everything? Did you see the final of the Champions? What is your opinion of the final? All my support from Venezuela. Pierina.
I think the Barca was much higher and showed that it is the best team today. Very good.
9 .- Hi, Rafa. I wish you a very particular question, what do you think of the importance of the press for the sport? I hope to be see you one day in some tournament. A lot of success...
The press is important everywhere, not just in sport. The important thing is to always be as objective as possible. Or treat you too well when things are going well, not too bad when things do not go. 10 .- Hola Rafa, after seeing your second-round match on Suzanne Lenglen was reflected as follows: it is widely known that the French do not like to see Roland Garros won by Spanish, and always feel that the French public relies heavily on your opponents. My question is whether you note the same thing by the organization. Good luck and thanks.
No, I do not think so. When I entered the court I always give a standing ovation important.
Posted: 01.06.09 08:47. Post subject: Это запись в блоге, ..
Это запись в блоге, которую Рафа сделал за день до матча с Содерлингом
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Catch the cheats but let us have our privacy too
Hi Everyone,
I am writing this blog today with a lot of will to talk about my press conference yesterday. It was all questions about the Anti-doping controls in tennis. But I am not going to talk much about this yet since I think it would be quite a long post. I am going to leave it for tomorrow in the case I win and that I will have more time to write about it.
In any case, some people tell me that I should not be talking about these things. I know it might not be politically correct and that it doesn't benefit me in any way. Why? Because some people might think I don't want to have controls or whatever. Wrong. That is COMPLETELY wrong. I am in favour of a clean sport and to have controls to catch the cheaters in case there are any (I believe tennis is a very clean sport). But I do ask for a bit of respect with our privacy and the right that we have under the law to have that bit of privacy. As I say maybe I will explain all this tomorrow and I will say, once again, what I think, because I am convinced about it.
So, today I simply had a normal easy practice day. Nothing really special. Well yes, I did have some time in the afternoon to have a little walk in Paris and even went shopping for something I needed. I don't say what it was so that you have some more questions to ask for tomorrow :-)
Posted: 01.06.09 09:03. Post subject: Вопросы для El Mundo..
Вопросы для El Mundo (перевод Google)
The anti-doping system treats us like criminals '
1 .- Hello Rafa. I read your comments about your friend Richard Gasquet and more than doubtful antidoping control that is torturing all of you. Beyond the controversy, and considering the unanimous position of all players, what solutions or alternatives would you propose to improve this stressful as lamentable situation? The common sense should reign but. ... I wish you all the best. AT THE FIFTH! José.
I have not said that the system is doubtful. I think that is simply wrong, that there is an invasion of privacy and that we must look at this. I'm totally in favor of controls to ensure that sport is clean. I think tennis is a clean sport and I welcome the fact that they control it, repeat. No one can think that I have the slightest doubt about that. It is not normal for some of the things we need to dp because they are exaggerated and we are treated like criminals and that is not correct. We are speaking with the ATP so that normal and logical limits be put and that that continue there being controls.
2 .- Hola Rafa. My name is Eva and I am excited to write and tell you that we enjoy watching all of your matches. I transmit my excitment and tell you surely match by match you will reach the final and win Roland Garros 2009. ... My question: Do you have time to enjoy Paris, during the tournament? Got some free time? Courage and luck. Kisses.
Thank you very much Eva. Pleased to greet you. Yes, something I enjoy Paris but obviously not everything that I want. During the day we are always working on the tournament, coaching or playing. I only enjoy it when I have two days between matches or just an early afternoon.
3 .- Hola Rafa, the first thing I tell you you're an example to follow in all respects. Lately, your statements are not very encouraging in terms of winning Roland Garros, do not you think that you can damage your opponents so that they feel more secure in order to win? Could it be Federers win in Madrid? And secondly it also wanted to say I am a fanatic of Fernando Verdasco What do you think about the season he's having? Do you see him as a future threat? Hug and VAMOS RAFA!
No, I do not think so. I always say what I think and then we have to play well and run all by what is said. Fer is having a great season. Playing against him is always difficult. 4 .- Rafa, What has been the most painful defeat . As have been so few is not very difficult to name ...
I have had painful losses that were very small. But perhaps most painful , they are not defeats but not have been able to participate in tournaments or matches much as Masters Cup, or the final of the Davis last year. we can learn from the defeats, we can't if do not participate. 5 .- Hola Rafa! I chose to do a paper on your career in college and wanted you to answer me: What is it that you think differentiates you from the other number one in the history of tennis? thank you very much and hopefully you win your fifth Roland Garros!
I have no idea. I am me and I do what i do. I do not know the truth, you would ask people in tennis who can compare.
6 .- Hola Rafael, congratulations, my question refers to the Masters Tournament. (I think she mean year end MC) Would you agree with me that from time to time this tournament should be held on clay? Thank you.
At that time it is difficult for the climate and also we come from not playing on clay since June. There would be many players against. 7. Hi, Rafa. Just wanted to say you've are responsible for me being hooked on tennis for past 4 years. What I most admire in you, and you're tired of hearing it, your tenacity and the way you deal with the losses and other hardships. Are you still having fun when you're on the court or you can have the pressure of been the number one?
Yes, of course I have fun, I love to play and compete.
8 .- Rafa'm convinced that this year get the GRAM SLAM, which in addition to our gold medal will be GOLDEM SLAM is even harder. Does it not give you a vertigo knowing that your name will always will be tennis history? Thank you.
I only think about the present and what I want and have to do. And later look back and appreciate all the titles. Goldem Slam is difficult, believe me. 9 .- Hola Rafael, big names from the generation before yours (Safin, Ferrero, Hewitt, Gaudio ...) are in the twilight of their careers with only 27 or 28 years. give vertigo that with current conditions of ATP tennis players have shorter careers? Would this not serve as an examples to rearrange the schedule ? hugs Champion a hug.
It is true that it is somewhat hard life, but in tennis, is a must see is the years in the circuit rather than the number in the passport.
10 .- Hola Rafa. We know that it is obligatory to attend press conferences after the matches, is part of the work, of course it is sometimes very difficult to meet, For you which has been the most difficult conference? Is there any reason to remove them from that obligation?.
There is a rule and I understand it. The press needs to do its job. For me, the press conferences are not difficult, nor when I win or lose. I go and say what I think.
Posted: 01.06.09 23:14. Post subject: http://s45.radikal.r..
Monday, June 01, 2009
I lost but it's not a tragedy
Hello everyone and I suppose you understand the reason for not sending the blog post yesterday... Not because I didn't feel like doing it, I am not like that. I simply I didn't have time for it. After the match was over, and after spending some time with my team in the locker room, I had to do all the work at the tournament and went back to the hotel to pack my bags quickly.
My flight was leaving at 10 pm and with the andi-doping control, the press Conference, the TV and radio inteviews and the travel back to the hotel it got really late. We managed to leave the hotel just in time to get on the plane at arrive past midnight in Mallorca. We send a message to the people here and advised them I would do it today.
The first thing I want to say is that it was only a tennis match yesteday. No big drama. It happens, and I knew it would happen one day. It had to be yesterday and well, now I just have to look at that match and see what I did wrong.
It is not a tragedy since as I say it had to happen one day. It is something I have to live with and that's it. I played really bad, very short, not agressive enough (or not at all) with out any calm and on top of that he played well... I simply did not play my tennis. Clearly it was not the best day of my life and I am not happy, but there is nothing I can do. It is hard to lose at a Grand Slam tournament, I know, but I must have confidence to keep working and fighting again.
One thing is also clear now to the public and that I have always said it: Every match is important, every round is difficult and anything can happen.
Yesterday was the proof. When I am asked about the final, about the semifinals and who is on my side of the draw... you see? I am not liying when I say that every match and every round is important. Tennis is a very difficult sport since you can go home on any bad day, and I had that bad day yesterday. I felt good at the warm up, believe me, but never felt good during the match.
So what I am going to do now is rest in Mallorca, at home, with my family and friends and analyze with Toni what happened yesterday. I will travel to London on Saturday or Sunday to defend my title at the Queen's Club and prepare for Wimbledon the following week. Everything normal.
Thanks to all for your support. I know I have a lot of fans there in the UK and around the world and I am truly thankful for that. I know the messages that I have received are sincere and honest.
Posted: 01.06.09 23:16. Post subject: Questions for Rafa: ..
Questions for Rafa: dealing with defeat and the curse of the pink shirt
Question from The Times
Rafa, whatever you tried today did not seem to work and even your famous fighting qualities failed to turn the match around. How were you feeling during the match, and what do you feel were the reasons for your shock defeat?
RN: Thanks, I think I did fight but as I always said, fighting is not enough. I didn't play well and Soderling played well. That was the key and the difference. How do you react to a defeat like this - do you try to dissect exactly what went wrong, or do you try and forget about it as quickly as possible?
RN: No drama, it's only a tennis match. I always said when I won that it was only tennis match and that one day I would lose. It happened yesterday and here I am today. No problem. I will have to analyse what happened at the match and try to improve as I always say. I am only 22 (23 on Wednesday) and still young.
Robin Soderling's tactics when you met at Wimbledon last year upset you a little. Is there still any animosity between you or has that all been forgotten?
RN: I don't pay too much attention to those things. Rafa: we know you love the pink shirt, but that you are also very superstitious. Do you think you will ever wear it again?
RN: I am not superstitious and I change the colour of the shirts every few tournaments. That has nothing to do with the defeat. Following those lines I should have lost the first match?
Questions from the fans
How do you feel when you receive a warning or a penalty point against you for taking time between points? Luisa Mandato
RN: I know that sometimes I can play slow. If I get that warning I will try to play a bit fasters, meaning in between points.
Did you ever consider playing doubles with Roger Federer? Tjasa
RN: Yes I did and asked him as well but he had other commitments with other colleagues to play when I asked. Hopefully one day, I am sure it will be fun.
Ok, the pink shirt is growing on me. So I have to ask...what's next? We know Wimbledon will be all white, but what do you have up your sleeve for the summer? Sharon Roberts
RN: It wouldn't be a surprise if I tell you, right?
Since you started playing tennis what is the longest period of time that you have done no physical training and played no tennis at all, and did you put on any weight during that time? Adeisha, Jamaica.
RN: No, not really.
Since you probably will not be playing a match on your birthday but the day before (hopefully), have you any plans to do anything special to celebrate or will you stick to your normal routine? Louise
RN: Well, now that I am back in Mallorca and will not celebrate my birthday in Paris as in the past years, I wil definitely spend time with my family and celebrate with them and my friends at night.
How in the world did the man who was just named the “most fit” manage to fail PE? Cheryl Travelstead
RN: It's a long story... but it was not because I was not fit... One day I'll tell you the story... :-)
Posted: 02.06.09 00:20. Post subject: Veruca_Salt, я не ср..
Veruca_Salt, я не сразу заметила первый вопрос и ответ, про самый сложный предмет. И решила, что это он про текущие события так говорит, мол, все узнаете в один прекрасный день. Рада, что ошиблась
Posted: 02.06.09 06:45. Post subject: Вопросы для El Mundo..
Вопросы для El Mundo (перевод Google) 'Against Soderling almost was not me'
1. Cheer up Rafa. I am sad for you as my Betis. You are what I love most in this sport. Although I know you wake up tomorrow and say that nothing happens and the other. Rafa, do you think if you had gone to fifth set , your resistance, determination to continue, would have defeated him? I'm convinced, but I do not know what you think ... Carlos Garcia (Sevilla).
Thank you very much Carlos. I do not know if he would have won the fifth ... The reality is that i didn't get there because i played badly and that's why Roland Garros ended there. Nor can we give more back on topic. 2. Encouragements champion. You are the greatest and will remain so. This is won and lost, does not say anything about another world. But .. what bothers me most is the attitude of the Parisian public as well as you said loud and clear at the press conference. I hope that once you will threat you as you deserve , great respect decent and humble champion. But why are so committed, the French public that lost in Paris? Do you remember having a bad gesture against yours any French tennis player? (Steve Miralles, Los Angeles)
No, I never had a bad gesture. They inspire the rivals and good, very well ... I hope it will encourage me the next time. Neither influenced the outcome so it's not important. 3. Hola Rafa, a lot of encouragement. You do know how to winning and losing with greatness .... At the press conference you said that perhaps it was lack of preparation, which has not been adequate to Roland Garros. If you could turn back would have played in Madrid, where the ground elevation of the tournament is bad for your game? How do you season the plants now in grass, the same way? Dani Muñoz (Madrid).
No, I do not say that. I said I was ill prepared for this match. I think my overall preparations for the tournament was the same as when I won the previous four years. In the same way i will prepare for the grass, after this not anticipated holidays 4. It's nothing to lose when you do everything you can. What we bother me and many of your followers around the world is partial attitude towards you in Paris. What do you think they would say if for example if in Spain, french players were treated same way as you were? Osvado Mejia (New Mexico)
I do not think that Spain is wrong to anybody. I would not encourage anyone to treat anyone badly. Tennis is a gentleman's sport and we should respect the players. Always said that the competition is within the court between the two players. Until the last ball is played 5. I read on the internet a couple of comic tricks Soderling did at Wimbledon trying to distract you. Is he the unfriendliest player of the circuit? (Jose Luis Barber, Alicante)
What happened at Wimbledon ... Has no more important.
6. Personally I think this defeat will hurt even more value to your deeds throughout the world. It's almost unrealistic to think what you've won your age and the wonderful way that obtained it. Don't you think from now we will value more what you are doing for world of tennis? (Oscar Pereiro García, London)
I already said that it is difficult to win a tournament and there is to see and play every round ... 7. Hi Rafa, I watch your matched on internet when they are not on TV and i like hearing news about you. I just want to give you encouragements of many Spanish who lives in Paris. Do you have a desire to be on the court with Soderling soon, or will you forget that with so many matches you play every week? Virginia Roche (Paris).
¡Jajajaja! Thank you very much. No, no. I am not revengeful. I just want to learn from the defeat and continue my career, looking forward. 8. Hola Rafa, SUPERCAMPEÓN. Take this defeat on the positive side, so you have more time to prepare on the grass and offer the greatest show that I have ever seen, your final against Federer at Wimbledon. Would you change this early defeat in Paris by winning the U.S. Open? What parts of your game did not shine against Soderling? (Marcel Landon, Besançon)
I Just played poorly against Soderling. I had no aggressiveness, I played very short and I never found my pace. It was almost not me. With the U.S. Open, hombre, of course I'd like to win all the tournaments in which I participate. But we must be realistic and see every game and every tournament. Next for me is Queens. 9. Hola Rafa. you're the greatest athlete I've seen. You'll see as you will have thousands revenges. I wanted to ask you what you will do this week, In addition to enjoying the pool at your house: Will you watch the remaining part of Roland Garros on television or do you prefer to stay away from tennis this week? (Miriam, Lanzarote)
Be with my family, my friends, playing golf ... resting and starting to prepare for the grass tournaments.
Posted: 02.06.09 09:41. Post subject: Перевод блога от 1 и..
Перевод блога от 1 июня
Я проиграл, но это не трагедия
Привет всем, и я надеюсь, что вы понимаете причину того, что я не написал блог вчера… Не потому что мне не хотелось, это не в моем характере. У меня просто не было для этого времени. После того как матч закончился, я некоторое время провел со своей командой в раздевалке, а затем сделал все необходимое на турнире и вернулся в гостиницу, чтобы быстро собрать вещи.
Мой самолет вылетал в 10 вечера, так что после допинг-контроля, пресс-конференции, ТВ- и радиоинтервью и дороги до отеля времени оставалось совсем мало. Мы выехали из отеля впритык к вылету самолета, и после полуночи прилетели на Мальорку. Мы направили e-mail в timesonline, в котором сообщили, что я напишу блог сегодня.
Первое, что я хочу сказать, что вчера был всего лишь теннисный матч. Никакой большой драмы. Такое случается, и я знал, что это когда-нибудь случится. Это произошло вчера, и я должен вернуться к этому матчу, чтобы понять, что я сделал не так.
Это не трагедия, поскольку как я уже сказал, это должно было когда-нибудь случиться. Это то, что я должен принять. Я играл очень плохо, очень коротко, недостаточно агрессивно (или совсем неагрессивно), я был неспокоен, а он к тому же играл очень хорошо. Я просто играл не в свой теннис. Понятно, что это был не лучший день в моей жизни, что я расстроен, но с этим ничего не поделать. Тяжело проигрывать на ТБШ, я знаю это, но я должен сохранять уверенность в своих силах, чтобы продолжать работать и снова сражаться за победу.
Теперь всем понятно то, о чем я всегда говорил: каждый матч важен, каждый круг сложный, и все может произойти. Вчерашний матч был тому доказательством. Когда меня спрашивают о финале, о полуфинале, о том, кто в моей половине сетки… Видите? Я не лгу, когда говорю, что каждый матч каждого круга важен. Теннис очень сложный вид спорта, ты можешь отправиться домой, если у тебя был плохой день. Такой день был у меня вчера. Поверьте, я чувствовал себя нормально во время тренировки, а во время матча все изменилось.
Сейчас я немного отдохну на Мальорке, дома, с семьей и друзьями и проанализирую с Тони то, что произошло вчера. В субботу или в воскресенье я отправлюсь в Лондон защищать свой титул на турнире Queens и готовиться к Уимблдону. Всё нормально.
Спасибо всем за поддержку. Я знаю, что в Великобритании и по всему миру у меня много болельщиков, и я им очень благодарен. Те письма. которые я получал были искренними и честными.
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Posted: 02.06.09 10:32. Post subject: ольга Спасибо за пе..
ольга Спасибо за перевод блога
Спасибо Рафе за то, что не ищет себе оправданий (ветер, публика, усталость...). По тексту блога мне кажется, что Рафа более-менее спокоен, похоже, он действительно был готов к тому, что турнир может пройти не лучшим образом...
quote:
Спасибо всем за поддержку. Я знаю, что в Великобритании и по всему миру у меня много болельщиков, и я им очень благодарен. Те письма. которые я получал были искренними и честными.
Хм... Все-таки сделал косвенный упрек французской публике
Не знаю, как заладятся дела в Квинсе, но Рафа любит этот турнир за уют и доброжелательную атмосферу. Поначалу я думала, что можно было бы его пропустить, но раз Рафа настроен играть, то Бамос!
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Posted: 02.06.09 11:52. Post subject: После Рафиных слов с..
После Рафиных слов становится легче, главное, чтобы все, что он писал так и было на самомо деле, чтобы действительно это поражение не осело глубоко в душе , а помогло бы двигаться дальше! Правильно ведь, сезон продолжается и ещё столько надо работать
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Posted: 02.06.09 15:26. Post subject: ольга Спасибо за пе..
ольга Спасибо за перевод, Олечка! :* Очень рада читать такие слова от Рафы, я уверена, что это поражение поможет ему, а вовсе не сломает, все, что ни делается - к лучшему. И по Рафиному блоку виден его очень трезвый и адекватный подход к случившемуся, я уверена, что вынесет из этого максимальную пользу. Молодец Рафа! Не устаю восхищаться им...
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(первую половинку), пока время есть... 
).. но раз Рафе нравится, против этого не попрешь.. буду смотреть "сквозь форму" 
) а с теми напульсниками и банданой вообще бомбезно 
Если бы это был мой сон, то вероятность бы была 50 -50, а от какая вероятность ее сна- я не знаю. 
). А то я уже волноваться начала, может, думаю, аппетита нет... 
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