Rafael Nadal is one step closer to becoming the best tennis player ever on clay. The thing that seemed to be so far a few months ago is now a reality.

With 3 more wins to go, Nadal could break Guillermo Vilas` record of 53 consecutive wins on clay. The miracle could happen in Rome, where Nadal managed to pass another test, against Henman, on Thursday.

He cruised into the quarterfinals with a 2-set win over the Englishman, winning his 50th consecutive match on clay. He will have to set up a clash with Chilean Fernando Gonzalez, probably the only player in the ATP Tour that has maintained a clean sheet over the Spaniard. The Chilean has a 2-0 record over Nadal. Not to worry though for the Spanish fans, since both of the matches took place long before Rafael became a fearful force in the ATP race.

The other quarterfinals of the Rome Open are very interesting too. It seems the whole world of tennis has gathered in the Italian capital. Andy Roddick seems to have regained his confidence and will meet young Frenchman Gael Monfils, while world leader Roger Federer will face Spaniard Nicolas Almagro.

Argentine David Nalbandian will seek a semifinal clash against one of the top players, when he will meet Croatian star Mario Ancic.