Robin Soderling ends Rafael Nadal's undefeated streak at the French Open

I couldn't believe this, when I read it on the ATP website earlier this morning, later this afternoon NBC re-ran the match so I was able to watch it and to be honest I still couldn't believe it. Nadal losing to Soderling, at the French Open. it's not possible, is it? Well, I guess it is because that's exactly what Robin did. He over-powered and out-played him completely. Soderling's ground strokes, particularly on his forehand side were devastating, Rafa struggled with the pace just as much as the placement. Realistically this could have been a straight sets win for Soderling if he hadn't choked in the second set tie-break. With Nadal and Djokovic both out of the French Open that opens up the door for Roger Federer, Andy Murray, and every other player still left in the tournament. I think this may be Federer's last 'real' chance at this major. He's never had a better opportunity than now, to win the French. It's up to him, if he can bring back his dominating level of play, like he did at the Australian Open earlier this year, he should win the title. Nothing is certain with Federer, but he's got the best chance of everyone left. Murray, is probably the next most likely so I'll go with him as a back-up in case Fed loses. This title is very much up for grabs and it would mean the world to some of these guys. Davydenko and Robredo are approaching the end of their careers, every grand slam opportunity is important to them at this point. For Del Potro and Soderling it would be their first huge break through in the tennis world. Murray would be solidify his hold on the #3 position if he wins the title and Federer would complete his grand slam collection.

Despite Nadal's departure I expect we'll see some amazing tennis over the next week. One thing I know is that these guys want this title. It could change their careers.