Nadal vs. Djokovic: 4 Ways Nole Can Get Back into the French Open Final

The score of the 2012 French Open Men's Final may indicate it has been close, but in reality, Rafael Nadal has been showcasing once again why he is the "King of Clay." The No. 2 seed is up 6-4, 5-3 over the first-seeded Novak Djokovic.

As the match enters a rain delay, here are a few things Djoker can be thinking about in the locker room to play his way back into the match. 

1. Unforced Errors

Djokovic is a powerful hitter. This can be both helpful and hurtful. While he can blast winners by anyone at anytime, Djokovic can all be a little too aggressive and blow the ball out.

In order to get back into this match, he must take a little muscle off the ball and keep it in play. Then, he can have a better chance of controlling the game, dictating play and making his opponent earn his points rather than giving them away. 

2. Serve

The No. 1 seed has not been pounding his serve as hard as he usually does. This has allowed Nadal to jump early on the ball, and thus take charge of the point.

Djokovic has been broken three times already in this match. He needs to place his serve and add more zest to it.

If the numbers on the radar gun climb higher, Novak's game count will climb higher, and he can get back into this final.

3. Fitness

Djokovic has played some long and hard-fought matches. While he is one of the most fit players on the tour, drawn out matches can even take their toll on the No. 1 seed.

Nadal has yet to drop a set, and therefore, is fresher, but Novak is known for being able to dig deep and do well under pressure.

Djoker will need to reach down and find this level if he wants to hang with Rafa. 

4. Ground strokes

Djokovic has some of the most powerful ground strokes. He needs to dictate the points and make Rafa run around the court. He needs to push Nadal back and exert his force and control of each point of each game.

If he can do this, then he can climb back into this match.