2014: From Heartbreak to History

Whenever I look back at the year so far, I think about how hard it's been for Rafa fans. 

The Australian Open final was so incredibly tough. It was heartbreaking to watch someone you love so much be in pain. He broke down, and I did with him. We had a few weeks in the dark, not knowing what was exactly wrong with his back and not knowing when Rafa would be able to play to a normal standard again. Injuries are always tough for Rafa, and his fans too. The last injury was his knee, when he was off for 7 months. Those months were the toughest ever for us, and I'm always terrified of having experience something like that again. 

Then came Rio, a relief because it showed us he was capable of playing (and winning) although it wasn't pain free. Indian Wells was tough, one of Rafa's earliest exits this year. Miami was a good tournament, although we lost in the final. 

Then came the clay season, and it was a disaster. Quarterfinal exits in Monte Carlo and Barcelona. Madrid was positive as he came away with a title, but it wasn't a true win, as Nishikori had retired 3-0 in the third set. Rome was another positive tournament, improvements were there even though Novak won the title. After all of this doubt, it turned out to lead to something incredible... a 9th French open title. The moment when he won was like no other, and I doubt I'll ever be that proud of him again. Seeing Rafa so emotional was a moment I'll never forget. 

Wimbledon was hugely successful for us, he reached the 4th round, big improvements from the last couple of years. Wimbledon showed us that he is in a better physical condition this year than others. The success is only increasing, what will the hard courts bring…? 

@rafanadaladdict