2 Rafael Nadal vs. 8 Richard Gasquet

Richard Gasquet has had a great 2013 as he has won 2 tournaments, reached the round of 16 at the French and Australian Opens and is now in his second career Grand Slam semifinal.  Gasquet was once a player so mired by inconsistency that I had a rule about never picking him to win a match because he would eventually lose to someone unexpected.  His backhand and mobility have always been there, but consistency has not become an aspect of Gasquet’s game.

Rafael Nadal has played some of his best tennis on hard courts in 2013.  He is dominating almost everyone.  I have joked on twitter (@danmartintennis) that Rafa was sent from the future to find Sarah Connor but was distracted when he found a tennis racquet.  He’s playing like a cyborg.  I think Rafa will control this match.  Gasquet is playing well, but I don’t think he has quite the variety to bother Rafa, even momentarily, as Kohlschreiber did.  I am happy for Gasquet, but I can’t think of a path to victory in the match-up so I’m picking the man er cyborg.

Prediction: Rafael Nadal d. Richard Gasquet 6-4, 6-1, 6-2