French Open Highlights Du Jour: Day 13

Men's Final

The men's singles final is all set and will feature world #1 Rafael Nadal and #2 Novak Djokovic in a winner-take-all-match for the French Open title and the #1 ranking.  This will be the 42nd meeting between the two players and the 22nd meeting in the finals of a tournament.  If Nadal defends his title, he'll retain the #1 ranking, but if Djokovic wins, he will become the new #1.

 "The injured against the ailing"

After Djokovic cruised through the first two sets, his level of play began to drop in the third set.  Gulbis fought back and won the third set but appeared to injure his back during the effort.  During the fourth set, Gulbis repeatedly grabbed at his back while Djokovic seemed to be letting playable balls go by, perhaps flagging due to the hotter conditions.  The radio commentators ultimately labeled the match as "the injured against the ailing."  In the end, Djokovic did manage to prevail, moving on to his second career Roland Garros final, but temperatures are expected to remain hot through the weekend so it'll be interesting to see if Djokovic wilts or flourishes.

 If That's Vulnerable…

The big story leading up the French Open was how vulnerable Nadal looked.  He seemed to dismiss any lingering concerns with a straight sets rout of reigning Wimbledon champion Andy Murray.  Nadal could be peaking just in time to capture a ninth Roland Garros title, but a very capable Novak Djokovic awaits in the final.

 Today's Schedule

The Boy's and Girl's singles and doubles finals will be contested at 11 AM Paris time this morning.  The Women's final is scheduled for 3 PM Paris time, followed by the men's doubles final.