TENNIS - When in Rome - the clay court season continues!

[Fizzywinegum]

New thread!

- can’t see Rafa coming back from this - he’s playing some good shots but it’s just not enough

I think Jo Durie is a Rafa fan

Bugger!

Alcaraz looked very nervous!

Shut up Mats, let's get back to the tennis!

VAMOS

Vamos!

Don't lose the break!

Damn

Put your own rubbish in the bin Sascha!

It all feels like a lot of effort from Rafa with little return

Fizzy this is my feeling. He keeps getting close- close to a decent break, close to a set, and then it goes. Even a couple of years ago, he would have stood a chance. Now it's just that bit beyond him.

I just wish he'd got a slightly easier draw. Just one more match.

Vamos Rafa!

The draw is so frustrating Raahh, there are definitely a lot of players he could have beaten.

Vamos!

I know Raahh - I don’t think he’s been playing badly - I also think that if he’d had an easier first round he might have gone further (although it’s not over yet!)

The really frustrating bit, is beyond this match, the draw looks pretty straight forward for a couple of rounds. Definitely players that (on a decent day) he could beat. Even now.

He might have played himself into form a bit if he’d managed to get through the first round

I’m just wondering if alcohol would help (me, not Rafa!)

Alcohol might help Rafa.

Darn it.

Could his last match have not been outside in the sun? Would have given him some chance at least.

Buggering bollocks.

Possibly Raahh

I’ve just seen a picture of baby Rafa wearing dungarees which has cheered me up a bit

Cute

Aww he's so cute 🥰

I don’t normally agree with applauding double faults but …

Aww!

Zverev has played well and stayed calm - it can’t be easy for him playing with this crowd

Don't be showing me sad Xisca