CAMELOT FANTASIES

check these headlines:

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/tennis-nadal-wins-madrid-title-nishikori-retires-195947948--ten.html



I wonder how many other headlines read the same way. it is unfortunate the way the match ended.


it is a brutal sport and becoming more and more demanding with each passing year.


that is why players are working hard on the fitness front to try to insulate themselves from injuries as much as possible.


I know nishikori will be ok with some rest but I remain worried about Rafa. he is just not working hard enough on the things that he has to work on and it is showing this year in his matches.

I am most alarmed with the drop in his fitness. usually his physical fitness alone is enough for him to wage a good war against his opponents. it allows him to put up a good fight.

he looks slow and sluggish out there. also you can just look at him. he has lost some muscle mass.

his shots don't quite have the zing/pace/mustard on some days.

He looks horrible. Unmotivated, and even confused at times. Something isn't right with him. He seems like a shell of himself.