Rafael Nadal into Final at ATP Rome

Rome ATP Masters Series 1000 - Semifinal

1 Rafael Nadal d 16 Richard Gasquet - 75 61

Rafael is looking for his 6th title in Rome in his 6th final in the Eternal City.

This is also his 6th straight ATP final of the year: 2-3, all losses to Novak.

Rafa has been to the finals of all 5 Masters 1000 events played in 2011.

Remember: He has only lost ONE match in Rome (in '08) - he's 31-1.

Something tells me he wants Novak in the final tomorrow for win #32.

Rafa: If I play Novak, I have lost my status as favorite...

So I will not have the 100 per cent pressure.

Hmmm...

Photo: Reuters