CAMELOT FANTASIES

Thanks for the OOP General. 

Rafa's condition has turned out to be worse than a stomach virus. He has primary stages of appendicitis according to latest reports. However, against the recommendations of doctors in Shanghai, Rafa has decided on a course of strong antibiotic treatment to hopefully reduce the appendicitis instead of the recommended surgical removal.  It's true that antibiotics are an option at this stage, but they only have about a 60% success rate, compared to the close to 100% cure in removal of the appendix. Also, the doctors are unsure how the appendix and Rafa's body will react to the strain of a tennis match and caution that it could still be dangerous.  Still Rafa wants to take the chance and says he wants to try to play anyway.

He practiced about 45 minutes today and admittedly still felt weak after two days of complete bed rest (Sunday and Monday), though he said he felt better with regards to pain in his abdomen.

I am concerned for Rafa. Does he really need to play in Shanghai in a weakened condition?  He admits he'll probably have to get surgery when he returns to Spain. Well, his choice obviously.  I would hope if he feels any more pain that he will not play or stop playing immediately. A potential burst appendix is nothing to fool around with.

My thoughts are that Rafa should get well and healthy and fit now, though again, I'm obviously not him.  The more he delays, the more it jeopardizes another chance at an Australian Open crown, as he could potentially be out a month after surgery.  I guess he is hopeful of being one of the 60% and avoid surgery.  It's a gamble.  He didn't seem fit to me in Beijing anyway as he was tiring in the second and third set against lesser players.  Oh well, what can you do? He has certainly had some rough luck with his health this year. No doubt.

Best wishes for him to get and stay healthy!  The tour is not the same when he is out.

Respectfully,
masterclass