Amazing. From #114 journeyman career nobody to top 25 serious contender in 4 and a half months.
Then he loses to Opelka this morning in straight sets.
Denis out to a quick 3-0 start against Nadal.
This service game for Nadal at 3-5 has been a battle.
And Denis gets the break and the first set!
Best I've ever seen Denis play on clay.
We'll see how he comes out in the second.
Big hold to start the second for Denis.
Denis breaks AGAIN! Up 2-0 with a powerful forehand down the line.
Tougher hold this time and some nervy moments, but Denis holds 3-0.
There is the break back for Nadal, 3-2.
Nadal holds, 3-3. But Denis seems to be in every Nadal service game.
Another break for Nadal, that's 4 games in a row. Things are not going in a good direction for Denis.
Denis avoids a virtual bagel and holds to make it 5-4. Nadal to serve for the second set.
Nadal holds and takes the second set. Can't see Denis winning this now.
Well, well, well. Denis not going away and gets the break! Up 3-1 in the third.
Nadal breaks right back.
First match point for Denis at 6-5...ahh just long. Back to deuce.
Match point #2...and Denis shanks it
Nadal holds. 3rd set tiebreak to settle it.
Not a very good TB for Denis and Nadal takes it.
Real, real tough loss...