2016 Rio Open SF Rafael Nadal vs. Pablo Cuevas 7/6(6) 6/7(3) 4/6
Translated by Genny SS :
Rafa: "Pablo's a great player, especially dangerous on clay. Congrats to him for the win. He's played a great match & served very well in sets 2&3.
I've fought till the end but it couldn't be. I'm leaving knowing I've tried my best but I lacked a bit of calm & conviction at some moments.
It's a pity because I had chances, both last week in BA where I had MP & here where I've been close to win, too. Obviously, when you lose 2 weeks in a row after having chances to reach the final, & even win 2 titles, but you end up losing in SF w/very good options, you're left w/a bad taste in the mouth, but I fought till the end. I was OK mentally, as far as accepting the difficulties & fight are concerned. I just lacked a bit of conviction at some key moments. I've had 3 matches in a row (AO, BA, Rio) where I've been a few points away from winning and in such cases some good luck is welcomed sometimes... though I don't believe in good luck and think that the one who's performing better is normally the one who has good luck and... I guess it hasn't been me."