Fernando fought back the elements and some hand and foot issues to defeat the No. 30 seed Philipp Kohlschreiber of Germany, 2-6, 6-3, 6-3, 6-71, 6-4 in just over four hours, claiming a spot in the round of 16 and defending his points from last year. In addition to some service woes caused in part by the windy conditions (despite maintaining a high 75% first serve, Fernando served 15 total double faults for the match) and 61 total unforced errors, Fernando was also dealing with a blister on his racquet hand and broke the nail on his big toe on one foot and had to take three painkillers in order to continue playing.

“The truth is that there were times when even I was holding the tears of pain. It was a very difficult, very difficult match. When I lost the fourth set tie break, I thought I was more likely to lose than win it.

I took three pain pills, but the fourth set was a nightmare every time I put weight on my foot. I’ll see how I wake up tomorrow, and if necessary I’ll do some infiltration, but I am certain by removing the nail problem, I am one hundred percent. Winning against a tennis player like Kohlschreiber while dealing with so much pain makes me feel proud.”