Nadal fought hard but Djokovic prevailed to play final against Tomas Berdych in Monte-Carlo

The road ends here for Monfils and Rafa

The singles semifinals at the Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters were played today Saturday, April 18, 2015, starting with French Gael Monfils, seeded 18^th, loosing in the hands of Czech Tomas Berdych seeded 6^th, in 68 minutes in two sets 61 64. It will be the fourth Masters 1000 final for the Czech, and he will be facing World No. 1 Novak Djokovic, a tall order.

French Gael Monfils Apr 18, 2015 @CelinaLafuenteDeLavotha

Czech Tomas Berdych Apr. 18, 2015 @CelinaLafuenteDeLavotha

The Serb Djokovic also advanced to the final match after overpowering Spaniard Rafael Nadal, seeded 5^th, in two straight sets 63 63, Both players put an amazing show of phenomenal tennis, loudly cheered by the fans who packed the tribunes including Prince Albert from his royal box, who even participated in successive human waves, such was the excitement of the match that was more like a final.

Spaniard Rafael Nadal Apr.18, 2015@CelinaLafuenteDeLavotha

Serb Novak Djokovic Apr 18, 2015 @CelinaLafuenteDeLavotha

Djokovic’s mission is to conquer a second title in Monte-Carlo after putting an end to Rafa’s eight-year rule in 2013. “I still don’t think that I am a better player than he is on clay. But I’m obviously trying my best to win all the matches that I play, not just against him but against anybody on any surface. That’s the kind of mindset that I have,” Djokovic said.

Nadal, the nine-time French Open champion, who is back after a wrist injury and an appendectomy, lack consistency in his game. “I think I played well for moments,” said Nadal. “But I get a little bit tired a little bit too early, and when you are tired, you play a little bit shorter. Then it is impossible against him. He’s phenomenal in the way that he can move the ball to everywhere. If he takes advantage from inside the court, you are dead.”

Berdych, who will be Djokovic’s opponent on Sunday, said: “I think there’s always a chance. You just need to try to make yourself as best as you can, try as hard as you can.”