Hi everyone,

Well, today is an important day. Not because of my match, but because for the football match Spain v Russia. I hope you don't take this comment in a wrong way. I mean, my match is very important for me and I am very focussed on it. I want to win and I know it is a very tough and difficult one. First thing first. But I am also excited about that semi-final in the Eurocup. But the Gulbis match will be very difficult since I know him and he is a very promising young player with great shots and specially a great serve. I know it will be tough.

Coming back to football, we will watch it at the house I have rented in Wimbledon with some other Spanish players, coaches and managers. There will be a great atmosphere and we are all very excited about it. Again, don't take me wrong since the tennis is my number one priority... On Wednesday I practiced only one time and I have to say I am feeling great. I feel playing good and hopefully on Thursday I can play at my best.

You might think that I am getting boring with these blogs since I don't talk much, but I think this is more or less a diary and with the fact of having the house so close to the tournament site, I really don't do much. From the house to the club back and forth. It is great for the concentration on the tournament but not much social life, sightseeing or anything alike. We don't even go out for dinner. Only with the exceptions of a special dinner or things alike.

My uncle Toni, who loves to walk, does go out for walks and even goes to the city if he has a free afternoon or morning and walk. I simply can't do that. Lot of people say to us, well your life looks great with all that travelling. But to be honest we don't have that much time to go out and do what other "normal" people do when they travel. Except on very rare occasions I go out and do "tourism". I did it in during Roland Garros since I had 2 days in between the quarter and semifinals and then it is OK. Also good to break the monotony of the long weeks.

Here I found out that there are boats that go through the river Thames and if I go further in the tournament I am thinking of one day doing it to have a different view of London from the river. We'll see.

Anyway, as I say big day today and hopefully Spain will win (after I pass to 3rd round?)

Thanks all.

Rafa