Babolat balls

You forgot to mention Verkerk, who got to the final in 2003 with a big serve and a big FH and quite some SVing

I see it as Nalby, he called the ball lively. The only reason why it may look fast is because it really "explodes" right after the bounce. But that's not the same as last years penetrating ball flight.

Of course Verkek!

Yes, I think you are right. They don't look like the bullets of last year.

If Djoko is slam fit he can still do it!

He's slam fit, but he's not 2011 fit...
I can't see Djoko making it really close against Nadal. Nadal in 3 or 4

More than Djoko's fitness, it's his self belief I actually question this year. He gave up a few times this year like he did not last year. It's almost like he is mentally tired after that AO final. Something like he does not want to relive the physical trauma of such finals.

But going for 4 in a row I would not be surprised if he finds that fighting spirit again....considering he is very fit of course. He can still have Nadal tiring first.

me hoping anyway.

"More than Djoko's fitness, it's his self belief I actually question this year. "
Valid observation, Tenez.
However, I believe that Nole will find whateer he needs to give his 100% in the final should it come to it.
I would like to believe that it would be enough.

Indeed but we all know that self belief without that amazing stamina will be completely useless. He refused the long rallies in Rome for a reason. I am hoping it was to save his energy here in Paris...but I am not convinced.

To be honest, Tenez, I don't know how right I'm on this, but you're pretty good at observing these things, I just thought that Nadal had considerably more fizz and blast on his shots in Rome than usual.
Like his power increased out of nowhere. I had a feeling it took Nole by surprise, which is why he chose to play it the way he did.

The only difference between Nole 2011 and 2012 at this stage of the year is match toughness/fitness. Last time he had to fight full on was in Australia.
A good match against Federer (potentially) could do the trick

Like his power increased out of nowhere. I had a feeling it took Nole by surprise, which is why he chose to play it the way he did.
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I don't think they can do much more on Nadal's power, besides maybe adding weight on his racquet. He has been that fit in many slams. But I certainly observed a puffing Djoko not having his last year composure and stamina to finish the opportunities he created.

He said he will be ready for the FO....I am hoping so!

"I don't think they can do much more on Nadal's power"
I hope you're right.
I didn't see him yesterday. Look forward/hope for to him playing Raonic.