Only got to see the match on tape but this point shows why it took over 3+ to play almost 2 sets with Nadal walkover win 7-6, 6-6. The longest 2 sets off the entire French Open. I think if Zverev didn't get injured Nadal might not have lasted 4-5 sets and winning. Rudd is a notch below Zverev and don't think he would have lasted this long.
You wouldn't think weather would come into play for a tennis match but it did especially for Nadal this match and lucky he survived. The humidity was like 90%+ which made the balls wet and heavier which prevented both players from clear cut winners resulting in long rallies.
Nadal at the end of each set looked like he just got out of a pool. Even his shorts were completely soaked. It got to a point Nadal wouldn't even put the second ball in his pocket when serving to prevent added moisture on it. Just heard Rafa speak and said the weather conditions were better today against Rudd for him.