TENNIS: Back to the European clay

[JaneJeffer]

I think it would have been better for Rafa to just commit to doubles only- but the rules around qualification seem really odd, so maybe he couldn't do that (as he doesn't actually have a doubles ranking). It would also have been fairer on the 'next in line' Spanish player -since Rafa playing singles bumped Caballes Baena, I think - who is obviously ranked a lot higher than him (and he wasn't too pleased at the time).

It would be hilarious if Petros won a singles medal and Stef didn't <evil cackle>

It's nice to see Barbora in these bright colours

I was watching Barbora's match (she's playing on PC)- before I managed to find Casper.

She lost the first set, but bagelled the second. So it might not be that long before Rafa plays.

Casper is not having the best time- down a break, and Taro Daniel has a lot of very vocal support.

Noticed that the Umpires seem to be wearing Roger's old Uni- Qlo cast off kit, in UPS brown. Nice to re-cycle.

Thanks for the tip Ice - that has made keeping on top of the tennis more manageable (although I do quite like the idea of just sitting in front of the telly and watching any old random sport )

That would be hilarious!

I just saw a Facebook post that Paula Badosa was pregnant but I think it's fake news (there have been quite a lot of fake posts about tennis players recently so I'm not sure what's going on there )

Watching Dan, who is getting riled by a courtside photographer and Aurelie gave him a time violation.

What's wrong with Norris?

First set Casper-who struggled a bit really.

Having a much easier time of it in the second set, maybe he just needed time to warm up.

I like his shorts.

Well done Barbora.

I missed the tiebreak but Barbora won. Sara will be gutted. She battled hard.

Is Rafa on Eurosport? Stupid F1 is on now

Jack is doing well. Dan having a medical time out.

Alex DM has withdrawn. I don't know if that has been mentioned already (goldfish brain)

There really will be none of the top seeds left!

I obviously like the fact Rafa has gold medals and Djok doesn't, but it is hard to argue that the Olympics is as important to tennis players as it is to track athletes for example- when a lot of top players have chosen not to take part, and the draw is half that of a slam.

A good start from Rafa 3-0 already

This is a very good start Fizzy.

But it means he's closer to a match with Djok. And I really don't think my nerves can stand that

I know Raahh that's what I'm thinking - wonder when their match would be - possibly a night session?

Eek the scary statue!

Scary statue!

It probably would be a night session- though I think he would play better in the heat of the day- and Djok would be worse if it was too hot.

Certainly don't want the roof shut.

No Sweet Caroline here.

You spoke too soon Raahh

Yes a nice hot middle of the day match would be best for Rafa

Marton seems to have stepped up a bit.

I like the ball boys hat.

I disappeared to help Dh with his car, and suddenly Rafa is 0-3 down!

Yes I hope we've not jinxed him talking about his next match - come on Rafa!

Not a fan of the ball boys hats.
I am happy to see, however, that they don't have to touch the sweaty towels!

Maybe Rafa realised he didn't really want to win