CAMELOT FANTASIES

General, you called it.  Well, Rafa beat Verdasco, but lost rather easily to Roger. 

Ok, Roger is playing well, no doubt.  But Rafa at times seemed lost out there. 

Conditions were no excuse.  The Indian Wells conditions are tailor made for Rafa with the high bounce.

Problem is again that Rafa was hitting too short a lot, and didn't adjust to Roger coming in more and taking the ball early before the top spin had a chance to go over his head.
Once Federer used that tactic and succeeded, especially on that backhand side, it seemed Rafa didn't have any counter plan.

Rafa needs to rediscover his game, and that can only happen on the clay. 

The sooner he gets back on the clay, the better.  The longer he waits, it might be too late.  It might already be too late.

I still think he has it in him to win Roland Garros this year.  But he needs to skip Miami and practice hard on the clay and get some matches in.

Condolences to Rafa and his fans everywhere.  The night is darkest before the dawn. He will have his chances to rise again.  Congrats to Roger and his fans.  He plays well for a man of his age, no?  He could probably play pro tennis to 45 if he wants and stays relatively healthy. 

Respectfully,
masterclass

Federer basically abused him as he should.


Federer is the only hero Rafa needs and he too can start being competitive again.

but you and I both know it would have to be on clay.


Federer is not this good at this age by accident:

he is driven

he is focused

and he is willing to make the sacrifices needed to be the best

he is also willing to take his fitness to the next level