Melzer took the ball early and on the rise, hitting it as flat as can be. The bullet shots kept Nadal on the run and prevented him from establishing any sort of rhythm. Melzer has hit like this throughout his career, but his shots seemed to inevitably drift wayward or into the net. That was the exception, rather than the rule, on Thursday. He easily took the first set 6-1. Nadal came back and won the scond set 6-3. Thired set
Melzer continued to apply pressure with his forehand, pushing Nadal around the court and forcing errors. When Nadal was finally broken in the sixth game, it was because of four errant shots. They were Nadal's misfires, but they were a result of Melzer's firepower. Two impressive love holds later, and Melzer had his showcase win of the season.
Time for the world number one to take Sampras advise and not play so much.
