One of the biggest sporting shocks this year was witnessing the Spanish superstar Rafael Nadal lose the second round of Wimbledon at the hands of 100th seed Lukas Rosol of the Czech Republic. After winning his first game in straight sets easily against Bellucci, no one could have predicted the outcome of the second round game, especially Nadal who was blown away by Rosol’s performance.
The crowd watched in awe as Rosol tamed the beast. Although Nadal secured the first set, Rosol dominated taking the second and third set and eventually the fifth set to write him a place in the history books. Rosol, who played out of his skin, and upped his game to an unbelievable level, looked astounded with his achievement, but no one looked quite as confused or stunned with the match result than Nadal himself.
Having had a fairly successful year, obtaining singles titles Roland Garros, Rome, Barcelona and Monte Carlo and doubles title Indian Wells, Nadal’s premature departure from Wimbledon was especially surprising. Now ranked at number 3; his lowest ranking since 2006, he must make an impact at the forthcoming London 2012 Games to remain in the top 3. With the tennis returning to the All England Lawn club, Nadal needs to rebuild his confidence and game strategy in order to prevent a Wimbledon repeat performance.
The Olympic Men’s Single Tennis event commences on 28th July, less than two weeks away. Due to his early exit from Wimbledon Nadal has had additional time to get prepared and back on form ready to do his Country proud and battle for the Gold.