Jo's streak of having *never* played a five-setter in his career came to a close last night.
But thankfully, his AO run did not.
Jo would come out on top, 9-7 in the fifth set. But not before having to withstand an inspired performance from Nico, the one-wristed bandit. That's right, Nicolas Almagro came from two sets down to force a fifth set while wearing a cast. A soft cast, but a cast nonetheless. It was an amazing performance from him.
But when the stakes got high, Jo was able to elevate his game. I didn't think Nico played poorly at all in that final set. Jo just kicked it into high gear and served amazingly, hit some ridiculous shots from the baseline and finished off his volleys when he got to the net. Nico had nowhere to go.
So it'll be Jo vs. Nole in the quarterfinals. Sorry Jo, but our love affair ends here. I'll be rooting for Nole. But regardless of result, I'll be happy. You've both played so well!
