Filed under: U.S. OpenNEW YORK -- We all tinker. Tennis players try to stand in a new spot to return serve, or to go through a new routine before a toss. Golfers are notorious for tinkering, their search for the magic nugget. Usually, it just turns them into Nervous Nellies.
And whatever we find usually lasts, what, four weeks?
"Sunday,'' Toni Nadal said.
Sunday?
"Yes Sunday, the day before the tournament.''
That's when Rafael Nadal changed the grip on his serve, under the guidance of his coach, Uncle Toni. And just like that, it has made for the most amazing transformation. Just a week and a half ago, Nadal slid his hand over a little on his racket handle, and as a result, he now has one of the biggest serves on tour.
A few weeks ago, he played in Cincinnati in hot weather on fast courts, perfect conditions for power. But he was not serving like this.
Rafael Nadal has found the Holy Grail. A weekend-warrior didn't find it. Not you. Not me, of course. Rafael Nadal, the best player in the world.
Snap, just like that, he has reached the quarterfinals of the U.S. Open without losing a set. Without losing his serve. Not once.
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