French Open 2010: Rafa Returns and Schiavone Scorches

Rafael Nadal won his 5th French Open over the weekend and the tennis world righted itself.  And because he also unseated Roger Federer as No. 1 everyone took note that Rafa is back!

He sobbed with joy and relief after sending Robin Soderling back to Sweden with only the runner-up trophy.

The women's final didn't involve a Williams sister, a Belgian or a Russian, but instead an Aussie and an Italian.

Francesca Schiavone, the 1st Italian woman ever to reach a grand slam final saved the best for the twilight of her career by grasping her once in a lifetime opportunity and wringing the life out of it.

But poor Samantha Stosur.  She played like a grand slam winner, beating Serena Williams, Justin Henin and Jelena Jankovic, but ran into the stubborn Schiavone.

So kind of like Andy Roddick at last year's Wimbledon, playing the best he possibly could in the final against Roger Federer, Sam Stosur did it all.  All except win the tournament.  But really, Schiavone is 29 and Stosur is in her mid-20's so by all rights, Stosur will have another chance.

And don't cry for the Williams sisters. They won the doubles crown.  Below are some great shots from the final weekend.

Oh man, these crunches are a killer.

If that alligator doesn't stop smirking, I'm shoving this ball down his throat.

Must. Get. To. The. Chair.

I told you to shut that baby up!

I'm gonna hit it, I'm gonna hit it, I'm gonna HIT IT!

Did I ever tell you about the time I beat Federer in Cincinnati?

(Beyonce and JayZ were in la maison.)

Mmmmmmmmmmmm, clay!

You get it.  No, you get it.  No, YOU GET IT!