2011 French Open: Rafael Nadal Survives First Round Scare from John Isner

Rafael Nadal defeated American John Isner 6-4, 6-7 (7-2), 6-7 (7-2), 6-2, 6-4 in Nadal's first ever 5-set match at Roland Garros.

Isner put up an incredible fight, and his serve gave Nadal problems. “His serve is almost unstoppable,” said Nadal in his post game interview.

With Andy Roddick out of the competition, not too many Americans had chances to show brilliance. Isner may have bowed out early in this competition, but he proved he could play with the best in the world on clay, and it could be a point to remember if Isner keeps moving forward with his game.

This could be looked at as a bad thing for Nadal, but I think it is a good thing. It gets him aware that he could be upset, no matter if it is early or late in the tournament. This opens his eyes, and he knows he has to play better than he did in the first three sets.

He may not be the favorite to win it all this year, but Nadal won’t go away quietly.

Isner collected 13 aces and 54 winners, but had 58 unforced errors. Nadal collected 50 winners on the day.

Nadal elevated his game to another level, and he needed to do that to survive.

Nadal will face fellow countrymen Pablo Andujar in the second round of the French Open.