So Close

With Phil not playing his final until 10:30 Boise time (12:30 Naples time), I had plenty of time to worry today!  Fortunately or unfortunately, we have Isaac taking aim pretty close to us, so much of my morning was occupied with making plans to prepare the tennis courts for the winds and rains sure to come with the storm's visit.

I finally heard from Neal after about an hour that Phil had won the first set 6-4.  I held my emotions in check, because from experience, I know the match far from over.  The next few texts indicated that Tony was playing better, and they were having great points.  Phil lost the second set 6-1.  Oh boy.  Here we go again. From Neal on the third set:

Phil serving, 1-0
2-1 Dawson- break-great points
3-1 Dawson
4-1 Dawson
4-2, Phil broke-great game
4-3 Dawson
(I'm pacing and my heart is racing at this point...he's on the come back!)
5-3, Dawson, very tough game for both
Phil serving, held serve
5-4, Dawson
(COME ON PHILLY!)

Tony held to win the match 6-4 in the third.  I spoke with Phil soon after and he felt really good about the way he played.  He said his serve was the downfall today.  The "yips" on the toss played havoc with his rhythm. 
I feel like Phil made a big statement to himself, that he is 100% back.  His confidence is high and he has overcome what was a potentially career ending injury.  I am so incredibly proud of him and his efforts!

We were able to change his flight home to arrive tomorrow, ahead of the storm.  It seems like he's been gone forever! Next event for him is the national grass courts in New York in September.  I'll post his results.