I finally find some time to breathe some life into this blog, neglected due to different journalistic assignments that, unfortunately, had nothing to do with Tennis.
But a Grand Slam is a Grand Slam.
It's when Champions write history, and underdogs become heroes.
On Day 2, Federer and Djokovic eased into the second round. It's not the moment to go into detail there.
Day 2 was rather marked by the rise of the almost-forgotten. Those players, who were blessed by nature with incredible talent, but all too often had to give in to injuries.
I am talking about Tommy Haas, Paul-Henri Mathieu and Brian Baker.
Each one of them had career-threatening injuries and several surgeries along the way that kept them out for months, or in the case of Baker, for several years.
The first two have had admirable careers so far. Haas, a former World No.2, is 34 years old now, but when he is in shape, he plays stunning tennis. His 2012 season has been quite good so far (semifinal in munich after beating Tsonga and Baghdatis), and now he leads Volandri by 2-1 sets and 4-2 games (play suspended due to darkness).
Haas had to play the evil qualifying rounds here, survived them, and is now one step away from reaching the second round.
Mathieu was another of France's big hopes many years ago. Thanks to his brutal forehand he almost made it into the Top 10 back then. In 2006, he played one of the all-time great matches in French Open history against Rafael Nadal, losing in four tight sets.
Now he returns in style from a long injury lay-off, beating Germany's eternal first-round loser Bjorn Phau in five sets, after being 0-2 down. The atmosphere on Court 2 was amazing as the local crowd carried their hero to victory.
Brian Baker from the USA. What a story. Could become Hollywood material ! I am not gonna tell you about his career history so far. His re-appearance is being hyped so much that you can easily find out about his story on the internet.
After so many years of absence, to beat the veteran Xavier Malisse in straight sets is nothing short of a wonderful accomplishment. Kudos to that, and keep us dreaming Brian!
Tomorrow, Day 3, Rafa time. The king rules.
Twitter: @AtleticoDave
May 28, 2012
Apr 19, 2012
Monte Carlo: The Day When The Sky Cried A River
It was a bad day, this Thursday in Monte Carlo. Journalists reporting from the MC Country Club had trouble not to fall victim to a collective depression, judging from their tweets. And I don't mean it in a mocking tone. Their reports and impressions were for real and accurate. I am not (yet) lucky enough to join the nomadic group of Tennis journalists, so I try to follow everything from the distance, via websites, social media and TV. Combined, I had a very good impression of the overwhelming mood in that beautiful place in Monte Carlo: 'Why is all this happening'?
So, what actually happened?
The day started off with a great match. Andy Murray faced local hope Julien Benneteau. A great match with long rallies, which abruptly finished at 5-5, first set, when Benneteau twisted his ankle and broke his elbow. At exactly the same spot where Argentina's Juan Monaco twisted his ankle 2 days ago.
Benneteau, who 2 weeks earlier had tears streaming down his face on the same court when France's Davis Cup captain Guy Forget gave his farewell speech, now cried again, this time in real agony.
After a few minutes, Benneteau tried to continue play, even playing a return with his left hand, but it was impossible.
Benneteau was playing a great match, very aggressively and courageous. Bon retablissement, Ju !!
Just as he was leaving the court, it was reported on Twitter that Novak Djokovic had left his practice court, in tears as well. Within minutes, the whole Tennis world learned that Djokovic's grandfather had passed away. Soon, the fans were assured that the world's best player would play today, and he did. He faced the tricky player Dolgopolov and was obviously absent-minded during the first set, which the Ukrainian won 6-2.
But, you know what they say: A real Champion knows how to win on a bad day. And this was one of the worst possible days. Djokovic has grown into a real Champion over the last 18 months. Just as Sampras did in Australia in 1995, he fought off his tears, his sad thoughts and a difficult opponent to turn around the match and win 2-6 6-1 6-4.
I cannot feel anything but respect and admiration for Djoko's professionalism and resolve. Outstanding.
This sad day was emphasized by recurring rain breaks. Play was suspended a total of 5 (!!!) times today due to short spells of heavy rain. Tsonga/Verdasco were affected as well as Djokovic/Dolgopolov, Simon/Tipsarevic and Haase/Bellucci. Maybe the sky wanted to join the overall sad mood in Monte Carlo.
The weather gods had another surprise in store: When Rafael Nadal and Michail Kukushkin were warming up, a loud thunder shocked the spectators at the Centre Court. Both players stood still for a second, then continued warming up with a big smile. But everyone watching the match was hoping that this would be the last 'message' from the sky.
Let's hope that Friday will be a better day. A lot less rain. A bit less sadness. And hopefully a Centre Court that does not endanger the health of players who are supposed to attract and entertain the crowd.
As Andy Murray said today: "There are holes everywhere".
Not only on the court, but also in the clouds.
Twitter: @AtleticoDave
PS.: To a very good and special friend:
Happy Birthday, Javi !!!
So, what actually happened?
The day started off with a great match. Andy Murray faced local hope Julien Benneteau. A great match with long rallies, which abruptly finished at 5-5, first set, when Benneteau twisted his ankle and broke his elbow. At exactly the same spot where Argentina's Juan Monaco twisted his ankle 2 days ago.
Benneteau, who 2 weeks earlier had tears streaming down his face on the same court when France's Davis Cup captain Guy Forget gave his farewell speech, now cried again, this time in real agony.
After a few minutes, Benneteau tried to continue play, even playing a return with his left hand, but it was impossible.
Benneteau was playing a great match, very aggressively and courageous. Bon retablissement, Ju !!
Just as he was leaving the court, it was reported on Twitter that Novak Djokovic had left his practice court, in tears as well. Within minutes, the whole Tennis world learned that Djokovic's grandfather had passed away. Soon, the fans were assured that the world's best player would play today, and he did. He faced the tricky player Dolgopolov and was obviously absent-minded during the first set, which the Ukrainian won 6-2.
But, you know what they say: A real Champion knows how to win on a bad day. And this was one of the worst possible days. Djokovic has grown into a real Champion over the last 18 months. Just as Sampras did in Australia in 1995, he fought off his tears, his sad thoughts and a difficult opponent to turn around the match and win 2-6 6-1 6-4.
I cannot feel anything but respect and admiration for Djoko's professionalism and resolve. Outstanding.
This sad day was emphasized by recurring rain breaks. Play was suspended a total of 5 (!!!) times today due to short spells of heavy rain. Tsonga/Verdasco were affected as well as Djokovic/Dolgopolov, Simon/Tipsarevic and Haase/Bellucci. Maybe the sky wanted to join the overall sad mood in Monte Carlo.
The weather gods had another surprise in store: When Rafael Nadal and Michail Kukushkin were warming up, a loud thunder shocked the spectators at the Centre Court. Both players stood still for a second, then continued warming up with a big smile. But everyone watching the match was hoping that this would be the last 'message' from the sky.
Let's hope that Friday will be a better day. A lot less rain. A bit less sadness. And hopefully a Centre Court that does not endanger the health of players who are supposed to attract and entertain the crowd.
As Andy Murray said today: "There are holes everywhere".
Not only on the court, but also in the clouds.
Twitter: @AtleticoDave
PS.: To a very good and special friend:
Happy Birthday, Javi !!!
Apr 9, 2012
The Davis... erm... Isner Cup
What a weekend for Tennis. Great matches of Davis Cup took place all over the world, with emotions, drama, surprises, and great insights into the future. How can anyone doubt the attractiveness of Davis Cup, and even think of changing its format?
This tournament has everything it needs. A worldwide audience. Matches taking place at different places at the same time. The crowd suffereing and cheering with every single point. Lowly-ranked players getting a chance at becoming national heroes. It is just perfect.
I want the Davis Cup to stay as it is. Sure, the top players chose not to play because they have exhausting weeks behind them and they need to lick their wounds. No wonder that the Spanish Federation failed to have a sellout crowd without Nadal, when the weather is bad, and the opponent (Austria) is not too attractive (don't get me started on the ticket prizes).
But the world's No.1 Novak Djokovic chose to go see Tsonga taking on Isner live in MonteCarlo. What a great match it was, a delight for every Tennis fan. And those who thought that Isner's win over Federer in the 1st round was a mere coincidence, should see how he played against Tsonga. The American is more than just his serve. He has a jaw-dropping powerful forehand and he plays a lot of perfect drop shots on clay. His movement has improved so much that it is much harder to outplay him. He takes risks, and it mostly pays off.
His biggest weapon is his mind. He knows exactly what he's doing and how to do it. He's immensely clever on the court, and little setbacks (like losing the 3rd set) only seem to make him even stronger.
This weekend, fellow Tennis journalists on Twitter were discussing if Isner might lift the French Open trophy this year. Well, I don't see him there yet, especially if Nadal is healthy. Isner almost beat Rafa last year in the first round, but that Rafa was the worst Rafa ever at Roland Garros (except in 2009). if all the Top 10 players are at their best, Isner won't make the final of the French just yet. But it might happen in a not too distant future.
This is the most exciting time in men's tennis ever. We have the big 3 who can win any Grand Slam. I am convinced that Murray will win one Slam this year, but I also see Del Potro winning his 2nd very soon. He is such a great player, and I hope that he can lift another big trophy, he deserves it. I firmly believe that Argentina will win the Davis Cup this year.
Talking about the future... as I live in belgium now, i couldn't help but watch a bit of the GB-BEL tie. Young David Goffin looks like a real good talent. Former pro Filip Dewulf said on Twitter that Goffin might break into the Top 30 very soon... I certainly hope so! We will follow your progress, David!
Twitter @AtleticoDave
This tournament has everything it needs. A worldwide audience. Matches taking place at different places at the same time. The crowd suffereing and cheering with every single point. Lowly-ranked players getting a chance at becoming national heroes. It is just perfect.
I want the Davis Cup to stay as it is. Sure, the top players chose not to play because they have exhausting weeks behind them and they need to lick their wounds. No wonder that the Spanish Federation failed to have a sellout crowd without Nadal, when the weather is bad, and the opponent (Austria) is not too attractive (don't get me started on the ticket prizes).
But the world's No.1 Novak Djokovic chose to go see Tsonga taking on Isner live in MonteCarlo. What a great match it was, a delight for every Tennis fan. And those who thought that Isner's win over Federer in the 1st round was a mere coincidence, should see how he played against Tsonga. The American is more than just his serve. He has a jaw-dropping powerful forehand and he plays a lot of perfect drop shots on clay. His movement has improved so much that it is much harder to outplay him. He takes risks, and it mostly pays off.
His biggest weapon is his mind. He knows exactly what he's doing and how to do it. He's immensely clever on the court, and little setbacks (like losing the 3rd set) only seem to make him even stronger.
This weekend, fellow Tennis journalists on Twitter were discussing if Isner might lift the French Open trophy this year. Well, I don't see him there yet, especially if Nadal is healthy. Isner almost beat Rafa last year in the first round, but that Rafa was the worst Rafa ever at Roland Garros (except in 2009). if all the Top 10 players are at their best, Isner won't make the final of the French just yet. But it might happen in a not too distant future.
This is the most exciting time in men's tennis ever. We have the big 3 who can win any Grand Slam. I am convinced that Murray will win one Slam this year, but I also see Del Potro winning his 2nd very soon. He is such a great player, and I hope that he can lift another big trophy, he deserves it. I firmly believe that Argentina will win the Davis Cup this year.
Talking about the future... as I live in belgium now, i couldn't help but watch a bit of the GB-BEL tie. Young David Goffin looks like a real good talent. Former pro Filip Dewulf said on Twitter that Goffin might break into the Top 30 very soon... I certainly hope so! We will follow your progress, David!
Twitter @AtleticoDave
Mar 15, 2012
In Murray We Trust
Just like in 2011, Murray suffered an early exit from the first big tournament after the Australian Open.
Last year he lost to an ambitious Donald Young, this time to a tough and underrated G.Garcia-López.
Here's why his defeat will not hurt him. Or should not.
Andy has had a good year so far. One title, one final and an AO semifinal, ending on a high note with an epic match against Djokovic.
Now he lost in the first round of the Masters event in Indian Wells.
His opponent, let's call him GGL, is a tough cookie on hardcourts. Nadal was one of his victims two years ago in Bangkok. GGL will walk the walk, go as far as is needed to win every single point.
In the first set of Andy vs GGL, both players had exceptionally long rallies. Still, no one had the feeling that Andy would eventually lose. He seemed to be in control. But GGL hung in there, fighting off break points (0-40 at 2-3 in the first set, that's his expertise), not giving in. His backhand is a joy to watch, technically clean, he can easily give the ball any angle he wants.
At 4-4, Murray was up 40-15 on his own serve. It went to Deuce. Long rally. Murray at the net, high lob, Smash... OUT !
I know how frustrating it is to not convert your own breakpoints. And GGL is the kind of player who needs just one chance to break your serve.
That was the moment when Murray's game broke down. Does he have to worry? Do his fans need to worry?
No. As Roger once said: "You are too good not to win a Grand Slam." It will happen. Murray has everything to become a champ. All the shots, the fitness, the tactical intelligence. He's a masterful counterpuncher, he can read match situations, take away speed only to go full speed one moment later.
The one thing that lacks him, of course, as everyone on Tour has already stated, is his mental toughness.
If he has one of those days, he seems unable to tough it out. But that is an ability you can learn, especially when you accumulate experience.
In the second set, Murray had another 0-40 on GGL's serve. Again, the Spaniard won the game. He absolutely had the total will to win, to beat a top 4 player. Murray found himself on the ropes against an opponent with a very good baseline game. He just couldn't break through.
In 2011, Murray went on to have a very good Grand Slam season, reaching all 4 semifinals. Nadal always stopped him, but he has the game to beat Rafa. It will not hurt Murray to neglect these early hardcourt tournaments and focus on the clay court season. He played great matches on clay against Nadal (in MonteCarlo) and Djokovic (in Rome) last year. He can beat everyone on any surface. As long as he believes it.
Let me just state it here: He will win a Grand Slam this year. I totally see him winning in New York.
So: Andy, you have 6 months to become a mental monster. Use them!
Twitter: @AtleticoDave
Last year he lost to an ambitious Donald Young, this time to a tough and underrated G.Garcia-López.
Here's why his defeat will not hurt him. Or should not.
Andy has had a good year so far. One title, one final and an AO semifinal, ending on a high note with an epic match against Djokovic.
Now he lost in the first round of the Masters event in Indian Wells.
His opponent, let's call him GGL, is a tough cookie on hardcourts. Nadal was one of his victims two years ago in Bangkok. GGL will walk the walk, go as far as is needed to win every single point.
In the first set of Andy vs GGL, both players had exceptionally long rallies. Still, no one had the feeling that Andy would eventually lose. He seemed to be in control. But GGL hung in there, fighting off break points (0-40 at 2-3 in the first set, that's his expertise), not giving in. His backhand is a joy to watch, technically clean, he can easily give the ball any angle he wants.
At 4-4, Murray was up 40-15 on his own serve. It went to Deuce. Long rally. Murray at the net, high lob, Smash... OUT !
I know how frustrating it is to not convert your own breakpoints. And GGL is the kind of player who needs just one chance to break your serve.
That was the moment when Murray's game broke down. Does he have to worry? Do his fans need to worry?
No. As Roger once said: "You are too good not to win a Grand Slam." It will happen. Murray has everything to become a champ. All the shots, the fitness, the tactical intelligence. He's a masterful counterpuncher, he can read match situations, take away speed only to go full speed one moment later.
The one thing that lacks him, of course, as everyone on Tour has already stated, is his mental toughness.
If he has one of those days, he seems unable to tough it out. But that is an ability you can learn, especially when you accumulate experience.
In the second set, Murray had another 0-40 on GGL's serve. Again, the Spaniard won the game. He absolutely had the total will to win, to beat a top 4 player. Murray found himself on the ropes against an opponent with a very good baseline game. He just couldn't break through.
In 2011, Murray went on to have a very good Grand Slam season, reaching all 4 semifinals. Nadal always stopped him, but he has the game to beat Rafa. It will not hurt Murray to neglect these early hardcourt tournaments and focus on the clay court season. He played great matches on clay against Nadal (in MonteCarlo) and Djokovic (in Rome) last year. He can beat everyone on any surface. As long as he believes it.
Let me just state it here: He will win a Grand Slam this year. I totally see him winning in New York.
So: Andy, you have 6 months to become a mental monster. Use them!
Twitter: @AtleticoDave
Jan 31, 2012
The Day After The Titanic AO Final
Yesterday (Monday) we had a general strike in Belgium. No public transport on the coldest day of the year so far. Consequence: I had to walk a total of 2,5 hours through downtown Brussels to make my appointments. Brrrrrrrr... and while I was walking through the cold, I thought of the AO Final to keep myself warm. "If they can spend 6 hours running and hitting balls in the scorching heat, then I can walk calmly and have a coffee every now and then today. Be strong!", is what I was telling myself.
Of course, thinking about the match, I always came back to that missed easy backhand of Nadal's at 4-2 in the fifth set. I wondered if Nadal also kept thinking about it, or if he really was that cool about it. That shot decided the match. That was the one shot that gave Djokovic hope. This is Tennis. You are down, then you win a point you didn#t deserve, and you are back. Tennis is amazing. Tennis is cruel.
However, there is one fact: Djokovic was the better player during the whole match. Nadal came back to win the fourth set because HE HAS BIGGER COJONES THAN ANY OTHER SPORTSPERSON IN THE WORLD. Nadal's achievements are breathtaking. He, Djokovic and Federer, all three of them have taken Tennis to another level. I wouldn't want to miss anyone of them.
In the Sunday final, the first three hours were of medium quality. It is astonishing that these players need three hours to warm up, only to play their best tennis in the three hours that follow.
The final will be remembered forever. I really hope Nadal thinks the right things and doesn't give up. he was so close. But he has to improve still. Generate more power with his groundstrokes. Don't go three metres behind the baseline. Play the return deep into the middle of the court, to give Djokovic no angles, and build the point from there.
As a fan, I thank both players for giving it all in that match, and making us proud of witnessing these exciting times in men's tennis.
As for me, I lost a match yesterday I should have won. 5-3, 40-30 up, own serve. I lost 5-7, as it always happens when I have a big lead. I have a long history with that. As you see, i have some mental work to do as well.
@AtleticoDave
PS.: Congrats to Azarenka for her well-deserved title. I would write more about it, but her opponent in the final displayed an unworthy performance.
Of course, thinking about the match, I always came back to that missed easy backhand of Nadal's at 4-2 in the fifth set. I wondered if Nadal also kept thinking about it, or if he really was that cool about it. That shot decided the match. That was the one shot that gave Djokovic hope. This is Tennis. You are down, then you win a point you didn#t deserve, and you are back. Tennis is amazing. Tennis is cruel.
However, there is one fact: Djokovic was the better player during the whole match. Nadal came back to win the fourth set because HE HAS BIGGER COJONES THAN ANY OTHER SPORTSPERSON IN THE WORLD. Nadal's achievements are breathtaking. He, Djokovic and Federer, all three of them have taken Tennis to another level. I wouldn't want to miss anyone of them.
In the Sunday final, the first three hours were of medium quality. It is astonishing that these players need three hours to warm up, only to play their best tennis in the three hours that follow.
The final will be remembered forever. I really hope Nadal thinks the right things and doesn't give up. he was so close. But he has to improve still. Generate more power with his groundstrokes. Don't go three metres behind the baseline. Play the return deep into the middle of the court, to give Djokovic no angles, and build the point from there.
As a fan, I thank both players for giving it all in that match, and making us proud of witnessing these exciting times in men's tennis.
As for me, I lost a match yesterday I should have won. 5-3, 40-30 up, own serve. I lost 5-7, as it always happens when I have a big lead. I have a long history with that. As you see, i have some mental work to do as well.
@AtleticoDave
PS.: Congrats to Azarenka for her well-deserved title. I would write more about it, but her opponent in the final displayed an unworthy performance.
Jan 27, 2012
Lost a battle, won the war. How a Scot exposes the media hypocrisy.
Let's keep this post shorter than the others. No need to use many words to explain something simple.
Today's match between the world's No.1, Novak Djokovic, and No.4, Andy Murray, was out of this world.
Exciting is an understatement. WorldClass doesn't even grasp it. The first set was poor, but the rest was un-be-lieva-ble.
Tennis fans are lucky to witness this era of tennis where 4 amazing players are at the top of the game.
I am gutted for Murray's defeat. He had longed for so long for an opportunity like this. To silence his critics, those who say he doesn't have the class or the mental strength on big occasions.
Today he proved the contrary. Despite the loss, all tennis reporters are full of praise for his performance. Those people who had condemned him several times suddenly see him on the same level as Djoko, Fed and Nadal.
Not only do they refuse to apologize to Murray for the way they treated and judged him. No, no. They also claim to be the ones who always supported him while everyone else was belittling him.
They did the same with Djokovic years ago. THey said his AO win 2008 was a one-hit-wonder.
Well done, Journalists. Just keep playing your own game. Pretend you are flawless, better than anyone else. Anything goes. Except admitting your own mistakes.
Today's match between the world's No.1, Novak Djokovic, and No.4, Andy Murray, was out of this world.
Exciting is an understatement. WorldClass doesn't even grasp it. The first set was poor, but the rest was un-be-lieva-ble.
Tennis fans are lucky to witness this era of tennis where 4 amazing players are at the top of the game.
I am gutted for Murray's defeat. He had longed for so long for an opportunity like this. To silence his critics, those who say he doesn't have the class or the mental strength on big occasions.
Today he proved the contrary. Despite the loss, all tennis reporters are full of praise for his performance. Those people who had condemned him several times suddenly see him on the same level as Djoko, Fed and Nadal.
Not only do they refuse to apologize to Murray for the way they treated and judged him. No, no. They also claim to be the ones who always supported him while everyone else was belittling him.
They did the same with Djokovic years ago. THey said his AO win 2008 was a one-hit-wonder.
Well done, Journalists. Just keep playing your own game. Pretend you are flawless, better than anyone else. Anything goes. Except admitting your own mistakes.
AO Day 11: Fireworks over and on Rod Laver Arena
I was looking forward to them all week. In fact, the fireworks on Australia Day are, imho, an indispensable part of the Aussie Open. However, as it turned out, most people on Twitter, online Tennis Forums etc did not appreciate them.
They felt that it is a sin to have fireworks interrupt a match between the two best players the game has ever seen.
I don't agree with them.
Every year, a spectacular match is interrupted on January 26. It lasts 10-15 minutes, and then it's over. Certainly, the interruption is long. But these players are pros. They must cope with it.
I don't think that the firework haters where complaining years ago when Baghdatis, Nalbandian, Tsonga or Blake had to "endure" the break. The last thing we need in Tennis were double standards. I enjoy the TV coverage of the fireworks, seeing Melbourne from a new perspective. The players should take a break, rethink their tactics, stay warm. Just like in earlier times when the third set of a Davis Cup match was over.
However, i feel that the fireworks should wait until a set is finished. They didn't help Federer, who was 5-2 down at that moment, and lost 11 straight points after the break.
Anyway, the fireworks won't create any controversy. The best fireworks were seen on the beautiful blue court of Rod Laver Arena. Federer and Nadal played a great match. Not superhumanly fantastic like the Wimbledon final 2008, but still great. Suspense, long rallies, superb shotmaking. It lived up to expectations. Rafa won because he was feistier, because once again he believed more in himself than Roger did. And because again Roger could not hold his Unforced Error rate down. Too many missed longline forehands, too many backhand returns floating out of view.
There's no denying that playing Rafa is a mental issue for Federer. He looks confident and superior against anyone else, but doubtful and hesitant against Rafa. How can he beat him?
It is a mystery. Roger has all he needs to beat him. For years I believe that the best way for him to win points against Rafa would be to use a short flat slice to Rafa's backhand. Make Rafa approach the net, lure him out of his comfort zone, then pass or lob him. Sounds easier than it is. But if there is a man who can do this, it is Roger.
He will get another chance.
For now, it's Rafa in the final. Everyone is already talking about him taking on Djokovic. But I don't rule out Murray. he has something to prove, and a lust for revenge raging in his belly. I feel Andy can do it.
We will see. Let's hope for another great match!
PS.: Well done to Vika Azarenka for her first GS Final !!
@AtleticoDave
They felt that it is a sin to have fireworks interrupt a match between the two best players the game has ever seen.
I don't agree with them.
Every year, a spectacular match is interrupted on January 26. It lasts 10-15 minutes, and then it's over. Certainly, the interruption is long. But these players are pros. They must cope with it.
I don't think that the firework haters where complaining years ago when Baghdatis, Nalbandian, Tsonga or Blake had to "endure" the break. The last thing we need in Tennis were double standards. I enjoy the TV coverage of the fireworks, seeing Melbourne from a new perspective. The players should take a break, rethink their tactics, stay warm. Just like in earlier times when the third set of a Davis Cup match was over.
However, i feel that the fireworks should wait until a set is finished. They didn't help Federer, who was 5-2 down at that moment, and lost 11 straight points after the break.
Anyway, the fireworks won't create any controversy. The best fireworks were seen on the beautiful blue court of Rod Laver Arena. Federer and Nadal played a great match. Not superhumanly fantastic like the Wimbledon final 2008, but still great. Suspense, long rallies, superb shotmaking. It lived up to expectations. Rafa won because he was feistier, because once again he believed more in himself than Roger did. And because again Roger could not hold his Unforced Error rate down. Too many missed longline forehands, too many backhand returns floating out of view.
There's no denying that playing Rafa is a mental issue for Federer. He looks confident and superior against anyone else, but doubtful and hesitant against Rafa. How can he beat him?
It is a mystery. Roger has all he needs to beat him. For years I believe that the best way for him to win points against Rafa would be to use a short flat slice to Rafa's backhand. Make Rafa approach the net, lure him out of his comfort zone, then pass or lob him. Sounds easier than it is. But if there is a man who can do this, it is Roger.
He will get another chance.
For now, it's Rafa in the final. Everyone is already talking about him taking on Djokovic. But I don't rule out Murray. he has something to prove, and a lust for revenge raging in his belly. I feel Andy can do it.
We will see. Let's hope for another great match!
PS.: Well done to Vika Azarenka for her first GS Final !!
@AtleticoDave
Jan 26, 2012
AO Day 10: How Djokovic beat IronMan Ferrer
Yes I know they played yesterday, but I didn't get to write this earlier. Right now I am having another sleepless night, watching the first women's semifinal (which provides more suspense than actual playing quality) and rethink what actually happened during yesterday's semifinal.
The best player in the world, Novak Djokovic, faced the fifth best, Spain's David Ferrer, the eternal warrior. A man you have to admire for his hard work and his ability to squeeze any little potential he has in his body to become a top player.
Djokovic had survived a scare in the previous round vs Hewitt, and now against Ferrer, he looked a bit doubtful. He secured the first set and led 2-0 in the 2nd, but Ferrer came back. Djokovic became hesitant, didn't produce the big shots anymore. Ferrer was running and hitting, running and hitting, as usual.
At 5-5, Djokovic broke Ferrer. The set seemed over, but Ferruuuu fought back, broke back, and started off leading the Tiebreak 2-0. He had all the momentum you need against a Djokovic who did not hit and did not move as he used to in 2011. Djokovic was grimacing, gasping for air, looking vulnerable. On Twitter, many tennis fans reminded everyone that Djokovic used to fake pain and injuries, and that he might be doing just that again. I don't think so, it makes no sense now, being No.1, to show your opponent that you are hurt. As a number 1, you don't get pity points.
At 2-0 for Ferrer in the Tiebreak, Novak served. That's when Ferrer lost the match. He hit an easy return to the net. He squandered the chance of making Novak play another long point and winning it. Making Novak feel that his path to victory would be even longer and more painful.
But no, Ferrer's shot sailed into the net. He managed to take a 4-2 lead, but at 4-3 he produced a stupid unforced error after a long, spectacular rally that saw him run from left to right. After that, he lost all the points, and gave up. He should have won that point. He should have played a good return at 2-0. That's when he lost the match and the confidence.
Ferrer is "the best of the rest", but the step from No.5 to No.4 is too huge for him. Which is no disgrace. He has done a lot for Tennis, and will continue to do so.
But until then, all eyes will be on the big clash between Roger and Rafa, on Australia Day. Scheduled in just 4 hours... but the first ladies semifinal is far from over. Kim Clijsters and Vika Azarenka are battling it out in the 3rd set right now, and the rallies are becoming incredibly spectacular. This can be a huge day for Tennis.
@AtleticoDave
The best player in the world, Novak Djokovic, faced the fifth best, Spain's David Ferrer, the eternal warrior. A man you have to admire for his hard work and his ability to squeeze any little potential he has in his body to become a top player.
Djokovic had survived a scare in the previous round vs Hewitt, and now against Ferrer, he looked a bit doubtful. He secured the first set and led 2-0 in the 2nd, but Ferrer came back. Djokovic became hesitant, didn't produce the big shots anymore. Ferrer was running and hitting, running and hitting, as usual.
At 5-5, Djokovic broke Ferrer. The set seemed over, but Ferruuuu fought back, broke back, and started off leading the Tiebreak 2-0. He had all the momentum you need against a Djokovic who did not hit and did not move as he used to in 2011. Djokovic was grimacing, gasping for air, looking vulnerable. On Twitter, many tennis fans reminded everyone that Djokovic used to fake pain and injuries, and that he might be doing just that again. I don't think so, it makes no sense now, being No.1, to show your opponent that you are hurt. As a number 1, you don't get pity points.
At 2-0 for Ferrer in the Tiebreak, Novak served. That's when Ferrer lost the match. He hit an easy return to the net. He squandered the chance of making Novak play another long point and winning it. Making Novak feel that his path to victory would be even longer and more painful.
But no, Ferrer's shot sailed into the net. He managed to take a 4-2 lead, but at 4-3 he produced a stupid unforced error after a long, spectacular rally that saw him run from left to right. After that, he lost all the points, and gave up. He should have won that point. He should have played a good return at 2-0. That's when he lost the match and the confidence.
Ferrer is "the best of the rest", but the step from No.5 to No.4 is too huge for him. Which is no disgrace. He has done a lot for Tennis, and will continue to do so.
But until then, all eyes will be on the big clash between Roger and Rafa, on Australia Day. Scheduled in just 4 hours... but the first ladies semifinal is far from over. Kim Clijsters and Vika Azarenka are battling it out in the 3rd set right now, and the rallies are becoming incredibly spectacular. This can be a huge day for Tennis.
@AtleticoDave
Jan 25, 2012
Rollercoaster Rafa, Floating Federer
We all wanted it. We are gonna get it. On Thursday, Rafa and Roger will meet once again. This time, it's not a final, but a semifinal. But it will be spectacular, with the added value of the match being played during the night session on AUSTRALIA DAY, the national holiday. We all know what that means: Somewhere in the fourth or fifth set, during a changeover before a crucial game, fireworks will go off over the melbourne skies, the fans will go crazy, TV will show the Melbourne skyline lit up by amazing lights, giving Rafa and Roger approximately 10 minutes of (un-) welcome pause. i personally love those fireworks, I remember those a couple of years ago when baghdatis defeated Nalbandian, or one year later when Tsonga downed Blake. I am so looking forward to it, as much as to the match itself.
Question is: Will the fireworks be on time? Because I have a slight hunch that Roger will beat Rafa in 3 sets. Hurry up, you pyromaniacs!!!
Truth be told: During this tournament, Roger (30 years, 5 months) looks like he's 25 again. Floating over the court, dancing from one corner to the other, unleashing his groundstrokes with precision and perfect Rolex timing. He somehow managed to turn back time. The old Roger with all the agility and class, only with more experience. That is how the creators of tennis intended the game to be played. Plus, he looks so calm and untouchable again. I can not imagine him freaking out now when seeing Rafa at the other side of the net.
Rafa also played quite a good tournament, but his doubts are visible in his eyes. His victory over Berdych was fantastic as well as agonizing. The match was a rollercoaster from the first to the third set. Rafa could have won the 1st and lost it. Berdych had set point in the second and missed a difficult volley when Rafa was doubting his game. In the tird, Berdych led by 1 break before Rafa fought back with pure will and class.
I absolutely adore Rafa and hope he will deliver, but at the moment I see Roger two steps above Rafa. Rafa made a bad tactical choice today by standing 20 miles behind the baseline when returning, and it took him over an hour to adjust his position. He can't afford the luxury of bad tactical choices against Roger. Yes, he beat the Swiss in the 2009 final. I hope he can do it again. But I would not bet on it.
Nevertheless, we have to acknowledge a great performance by both Rafa and Berdych, who was hammering at every ball as hard as he could.
In a few hours, Djokovic will face my buddy Daveeeeeeed Ferrer. I so wanna see Ferrer winning. He is the hardest worker in the circuit. i wish he could win a Grand Slam. Or even reach a final. Buena suerte, David!
Question is: Will the fireworks be on time? Because I have a slight hunch that Roger will beat Rafa in 3 sets. Hurry up, you pyromaniacs!!!
Truth be told: During this tournament, Roger (30 years, 5 months) looks like he's 25 again. Floating over the court, dancing from one corner to the other, unleashing his groundstrokes with precision and perfect Rolex timing. He somehow managed to turn back time. The old Roger with all the agility and class, only with more experience. That is how the creators of tennis intended the game to be played. Plus, he looks so calm and untouchable again. I can not imagine him freaking out now when seeing Rafa at the other side of the net.
Rafa also played quite a good tournament, but his doubts are visible in his eyes. His victory over Berdych was fantastic as well as agonizing. The match was a rollercoaster from the first to the third set. Rafa could have won the 1st and lost it. Berdych had set point in the second and missed a difficult volley when Rafa was doubting his game. In the tird, Berdych led by 1 break before Rafa fought back with pure will and class.
I absolutely adore Rafa and hope he will deliver, but at the moment I see Roger two steps above Rafa. Rafa made a bad tactical choice today by standing 20 miles behind the baseline when returning, and it took him over an hour to adjust his position. He can't afford the luxury of bad tactical choices against Roger. Yes, he beat the Swiss in the 2009 final. I hope he can do it again. But I would not bet on it.
Nevertheless, we have to acknowledge a great performance by both Rafa and Berdych, who was hammering at every ball as hard as he could.
In a few hours, Djokovic will face my buddy Daveeeeeeed Ferrer. I so wanna see Ferrer winning. He is the hardest worker in the circuit. i wish he could win a Grand Slam. Or even reach a final. Buena suerte, David!
Jan 24, 2012
True Admiration for Rusty
It was way past midnight when the spectators at the beautiful Rod Laver Arena really believed it could happen: That Lleyton "Rusty" Hewitt", a former World No.1 and Grand Slam Champ, could turn this whole match around against the best player on the planet, Novak Djokovic.
Rusty had just won the third set (6-4 after being 0-3 down) with a fantastic display of pure will, self-belief and class, and at that certain moment, way past midnight, he had the chance to break Novak's serve. The chance to continue the amazing turnaround. The chance to lead 2-1 and take the match into a deciding fifth set.
What followed was another wonderful rally, with Novak sending the aging Hewitt from left to right, but the balls kept coming back. It was finally the magic match the Australian crowd was waiting for all week long. The perfect moment. And when Hewitt played a very low backhand slice, luring Djokovic to the net, EVERYONE in the Arena stopped breathing for a moment.
Until Novak hit the magic shot.Despite the pressure, despite a minimal loss of confidence, Novak replied to Hewitt's slice with a perfect crosscourt forehand into the deep corner. Hewitt tried to get to the ball but found himself on the floor. Novak hit the perfect ball at the perfect moment. He then won his service game, broke Hewitt, and the match was over.
After the match, Hewitt received much praise for his performance, and rightly so. After losing 2 sets and conceding another break in the 3rd, no one expected Hewitt to stage a comeback against the "Djoker". But he couldn't let imself or his local crowd down. He completely ignored the pain he was putting his body through and kept on fighting, cementing his legacy as one of Australia's major sports heroes.
As for Novak, he maybe had a little lapse in concentration (coinciding with a 2-minute bird invasion in the stadium), but he stayed as cool as anyone could be, and in the end, his excellence prevailed. The match, starting in the third set, was a masterpiece in many aspects, and anyone who was there must consider it a privilege.
----
Great news for the men's game: For the first time ever, a Japanese player has reached the quarterfinals of a Grand Slam. That is fantastic, because the men's circuit has been dominated by Europeans for too long now. It is time for other regions of the world to have a say in the big tournaments. Kei Nishikori is no Grand Slam winner, but with his talent he should absolutely be able to cause a few surprises along the way in 2012 and beyond.
On the other side, it was disapppointing to see JW Tsonga lose to the Nish. The Frenchman won the first set easily but then disappeared. He, together with Del Potro, is the only one who really can challenge the big Four. but that can't happen as long as he allows himself to play it cool and relax in certain moments of the match.
It's quarterfinal time now and there are big matches coming up on RL Arena. How i wish I could be there...
Rusty had just won the third set (6-4 after being 0-3 down) with a fantastic display of pure will, self-belief and class, and at that certain moment, way past midnight, he had the chance to break Novak's serve. The chance to continue the amazing turnaround. The chance to lead 2-1 and take the match into a deciding fifth set.
What followed was another wonderful rally, with Novak sending the aging Hewitt from left to right, but the balls kept coming back. It was finally the magic match the Australian crowd was waiting for all week long. The perfect moment. And when Hewitt played a very low backhand slice, luring Djokovic to the net, EVERYONE in the Arena stopped breathing for a moment.
Until Novak hit the magic shot.Despite the pressure, despite a minimal loss of confidence, Novak replied to Hewitt's slice with a perfect crosscourt forehand into the deep corner. Hewitt tried to get to the ball but found himself on the floor. Novak hit the perfect ball at the perfect moment. He then won his service game, broke Hewitt, and the match was over.
After the match, Hewitt received much praise for his performance, and rightly so. After losing 2 sets and conceding another break in the 3rd, no one expected Hewitt to stage a comeback against the "Djoker". But he couldn't let imself or his local crowd down. He completely ignored the pain he was putting his body through and kept on fighting, cementing his legacy as one of Australia's major sports heroes.
As for Novak, he maybe had a little lapse in concentration (coinciding with a 2-minute bird invasion in the stadium), but he stayed as cool as anyone could be, and in the end, his excellence prevailed. The match, starting in the third set, was a masterpiece in many aspects, and anyone who was there must consider it a privilege.
----
Great news for the men's game: For the first time ever, a Japanese player has reached the quarterfinals of a Grand Slam. That is fantastic, because the men's circuit has been dominated by Europeans for too long now. It is time for other regions of the world to have a say in the big tournaments. Kei Nishikori is no Grand Slam winner, but with his talent he should absolutely be able to cause a few surprises along the way in 2012 and beyond.
On the other side, it was disapppointing to see JW Tsonga lose to the Nish. The Frenchman won the first set easily but then disappeared. He, together with Del Potro, is the only one who really can challenge the big Four. but that can't happen as long as he allows himself to play it cool and relax in certain moments of the match.
It's quarterfinal time now and there are big matches coming up on RL Arena. How i wish I could be there...
Jan 22, 2012
AO Day 7: Shaking nerves, not hands...
It is nice to see that people are worried about you when you don't post a blog one day. It happened yesterday, I had a busy day and didn't get to post anything. I did watch all the Tennis oN Saturday though, and here are my quick thoughts:
Another unspectacular day session at Rod Laver Arena.
Only Hewitt vs Raonic brought any excitement to the crowd. Nice fightback for Rusty Hewitt, Raonic will learn from it.
Very impressive performances by Tsonga and Gasquet. Very disappointed of Monfils. Again.
True grit by Sabine Lisicki. That girl rocks! And Ana Ivanovic is steady as a rock. Game on!
Hats off to Murray and Llodra! The Frenchman didn't even try to win, but he made a good show !
Let's move on to Day 7, where I recovered some sleep only to find out that Clijsters had staged a remarkable comeback. 4 match points down, in the last matchpoint she played a terrible drop shot but Na Li choked. Incredible stuff. The Chinese star will have nightmares about that point.
The biggest controversy involves Tomas Berdych and Nicolas Almagro. Late in the 4th set Berdych got hit pretty bad by Almagro (see here!). The Czech refused to accept any apology and after the match he didn't shake Almagro's hand.
The crowd booed Berdych until he left the court.
Without a doubt it is poor sportsmanship to refuse to shake the hand. But media and fans alike are too quick to judge Berdych. See the video. Almagro was on the run, but he had other options than going for Berdych's body. I am convinced that Almagro NEVER even thought of playing a longline passing shot. The point (5-5, 0-30) was too important to miss. He went for the body. All of us who play tennis know that situation, and when this happens, we are furious. From a human point of view, I totally understand Berdych's reaction, and we shouldn't pretend that we are angels and always think of fair play. I am sure that by now berdych regrets not shaking Almagro's hand. But in the heat of the battle, mistakes are made. Only that Almagro was the first to make a mistake. Verbal apologies are worthless when it comes to physical abuse.
Apart from that, we saw another very elegant and spirited performance from Federer vs Tomic. Next up for the Swiss: Del Potro !!
aAdal also breezed past Lopez and will face Berdych now. I am absolutely excited for the rest of the tournament. Can't believe one week has already passed !!!
Another unspectacular day session at Rod Laver Arena.
Only Hewitt vs Raonic brought any excitement to the crowd. Nice fightback for Rusty Hewitt, Raonic will learn from it.
Very impressive performances by Tsonga and Gasquet. Very disappointed of Monfils. Again.
True grit by Sabine Lisicki. That girl rocks! And Ana Ivanovic is steady as a rock. Game on!
Hats off to Murray and Llodra! The Frenchman didn't even try to win, but he made a good show !
Let's move on to Day 7, where I recovered some sleep only to find out that Clijsters had staged a remarkable comeback. 4 match points down, in the last matchpoint she played a terrible drop shot but Na Li choked. Incredible stuff. The Chinese star will have nightmares about that point.
The biggest controversy involves Tomas Berdych and Nicolas Almagro. Late in the 4th set Berdych got hit pretty bad by Almagro (see here!). The Czech refused to accept any apology and after the match he didn't shake Almagro's hand.
The crowd booed Berdych until he left the court.
Without a doubt it is poor sportsmanship to refuse to shake the hand. But media and fans alike are too quick to judge Berdych. See the video. Almagro was on the run, but he had other options than going for Berdych's body. I am convinced that Almagro NEVER even thought of playing a longline passing shot. The point (5-5, 0-30) was too important to miss. He went for the body. All of us who play tennis know that situation, and when this happens, we are furious. From a human point of view, I totally understand Berdych's reaction, and we shouldn't pretend that we are angels and always think of fair play. I am sure that by now berdych regrets not shaking Almagro's hand. But in the heat of the battle, mistakes are made. Only that Almagro was the first to make a mistake. Verbal apologies are worthless when it comes to physical abuse.
Apart from that, we saw another very elegant and spirited performance from Federer vs Tomic. Next up for the Swiss: Del Potro !!
aAdal also breezed past Lopez and will face Berdych now. I am absolutely excited for the rest of the tournament. Can't believe one week has already passed !!!
Jan 20, 2012
AO Day 5: Slice and carve until you drop
Before talking about the highlight of Day 5 of the Australian Open, let me just wish all the best to my fellow countrywoman Anabel Medina Garrigues. A great professional, funny person, and amazing Tennis player. She waited all day long for her match to start, and when she finally stepped on Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne, her match was over after 15 minutes. She sprained her ankle and shed many tears on the court. It's not her first injury she sustained in Melbourne in her career. Let's hope she recovers quickly. Animo Anabel !
Just before her match, spectators all aorund the world were treated with one of the highlights of the tournament. Two youngsters who will surely dominate the Tour in a couple years clashed in the night session, providing a superb 5-set thriller (as everyone including yours truly expected). German-born Australian Bernard Tomic faced Alex Dolgopolov from the Ukraine. In today's world of power tennis, it is rare to see one player with their game style, let alone two. Slice the ball till you drop. Take the speed of the ball. Work the angles. Accelerate when the right moments comes. Run for your life, and if needed make the magic shot every spectator wants to see.
Especially Tomic had the local crowd on the edge of their seats, and his victory was quite logic, given his constant progression in the last years. He's 19 and has a glorious future in front of him. However, I am not yet quite sure that he is an upcoming No.1 player, as many people say. He plays almost as cleverly as Martina Hingis did back in her days, but I believe that soon opponents will come up with a solution to his playing style enigma.
The next player who will have to cope with Tomic's "funky" style is no other than Roger Federer himself. Some are already comparing that match to the one Roger played in 2001, when he beat the legendary Sampras in Wimbledon, announcing the changing of the guard. Let's not get ahead of ourselves. Tomic is NOT going to win this. Federer may be 30 years old but he still plays like he's 25.
Federer himself was a bit lucky in his first set yesterday. He faced Croatian Giant Ivo Karlovic, the one with the service bombs and not much else. We all knew how the match would turn out well in advance. Roger would dominate from the baseline, while Dr. Ivo relies on his service games.
The first set tie-break defined the rest of the game. At 5-5 in the breaker, Federer conceded a mini-break after LOSING a long rally from the baseline. Surprise. 6-5 to Ivo on his own serve. The Croat steps up, second serve, plays a lousy volley. Federer has the chance to pass him, hits the ball to the centre of the court, Ivo get his racket on the ball, and it drops like a tomato. Federer rushes to the net, and gets to the ball just in time to play a LOB, of all things, against the2-meter monster from the Balkans. Ivo, surprised, jumps and tries to get to the lob, but his racket barely touches the ball. What a chance, what a disappointment for the Croat. That's the one point that decided the game. At the next point, Roger played a sensational backhand return off Ivo's FIRST serve, and the set was over. Ivo is such a funny guy, especially on Twitter he's one of the best and wittiest out there. In Tennis, he's doing his best, but seldomly he gets past the first week of a Grand Slam. There's just no more in him, especially no more luck in those defining moments.
And even if he had won the tiebreaker, Fed would have won the match. Of course.
What else happened on Friday? Nadal knocked down the very talented Lukas Lacko from Slovakia, but it is worth re-watching the very first point of the match.
Feliciano Lopez powered past another Giant, marathon man John Isner, in five sets, felicidades crack!
Del Potro had no problems with Lu, and WOW Nicolas Almagro won in straight sets against Wawrinka in the battle of the one-handed backhands. Big surprise, and Nico deserves this win after some disappointments in 2011. Let's not let Tomas Berdych out of our sight, he's slowly progressing through the draw without raising an eyebrow. Very dangerous !!
On the ladies' side, Vika Azarenka was a bit rude to a linesperson at the end of her match, but she later apologized. She should really look into the mirror, because the way she wasted some of her challenges was ridiculous. She should have her vision checked.
Germany's darling Julia Goerges made it to the fourth round for the first time, Glückwunsch ! Many doubted her current form, but she has true grit. Same for Philipp Kohlschreiber. Well done !
The tournament is not entering a very exciting phase. Almost every player who's still around can deliver.
Let's see who that Raonic vs Hewitt dish tastes on Saturday. I believe Raonic will go through in 3 sets.
Ok. Time to catch up with some sleep...
Just before her match, spectators all aorund the world were treated with one of the highlights of the tournament. Two youngsters who will surely dominate the Tour in a couple years clashed in the night session, providing a superb 5-set thriller (as everyone including yours truly expected). German-born Australian Bernard Tomic faced Alex Dolgopolov from the Ukraine. In today's world of power tennis, it is rare to see one player with their game style, let alone two. Slice the ball till you drop. Take the speed of the ball. Work the angles. Accelerate when the right moments comes. Run for your life, and if needed make the magic shot every spectator wants to see.
Especially Tomic had the local crowd on the edge of their seats, and his victory was quite logic, given his constant progression in the last years. He's 19 and has a glorious future in front of him. However, I am not yet quite sure that he is an upcoming No.1 player, as many people say. He plays almost as cleverly as Martina Hingis did back in her days, but I believe that soon opponents will come up with a solution to his playing style enigma.
The next player who will have to cope with Tomic's "funky" style is no other than Roger Federer himself. Some are already comparing that match to the one Roger played in 2001, when he beat the legendary Sampras in Wimbledon, announcing the changing of the guard. Let's not get ahead of ourselves. Tomic is NOT going to win this. Federer may be 30 years old but he still plays like he's 25.
Federer himself was a bit lucky in his first set yesterday. He faced Croatian Giant Ivo Karlovic, the one with the service bombs and not much else. We all knew how the match would turn out well in advance. Roger would dominate from the baseline, while Dr. Ivo relies on his service games.
The first set tie-break defined the rest of the game. At 5-5 in the breaker, Federer conceded a mini-break after LOSING a long rally from the baseline. Surprise. 6-5 to Ivo on his own serve. The Croat steps up, second serve, plays a lousy volley. Federer has the chance to pass him, hits the ball to the centre of the court, Ivo get his racket on the ball, and it drops like a tomato. Federer rushes to the net, and gets to the ball just in time to play a LOB, of all things, against the2-meter monster from the Balkans. Ivo, surprised, jumps and tries to get to the lob, but his racket barely touches the ball. What a chance, what a disappointment for the Croat. That's the one point that decided the game. At the next point, Roger played a sensational backhand return off Ivo's FIRST serve, and the set was over. Ivo is such a funny guy, especially on Twitter he's one of the best and wittiest out there. In Tennis, he's doing his best, but seldomly he gets past the first week of a Grand Slam. There's just no more in him, especially no more luck in those defining moments.
And even if he had won the tiebreaker, Fed would have won the match. Of course.
What else happened on Friday? Nadal knocked down the very talented Lukas Lacko from Slovakia, but it is worth re-watching the very first point of the match.
Feliciano Lopez powered past another Giant, marathon man John Isner, in five sets, felicidades crack!
Del Potro had no problems with Lu, and WOW Nicolas Almagro won in straight sets against Wawrinka in the battle of the one-handed backhands. Big surprise, and Nico deserves this win after some disappointments in 2011. Let's not let Tomas Berdych out of our sight, he's slowly progressing through the draw without raising an eyebrow. Very dangerous !!
On the ladies' side, Vika Azarenka was a bit rude to a linesperson at the end of her match, but she later apologized. She should really look into the mirror, because the way she wasted some of her challenges was ridiculous. She should have her vision checked.
Germany's darling Julia Goerges made it to the fourth round for the first time, Glückwunsch ! Many doubted her current form, but she has true grit. Same for Philipp Kohlschreiber. Well done !
The tournament is not entering a very exciting phase. Almost every player who's still around can deliver.
Let's see who that Raonic vs Hewitt dish tastes on Saturday. I believe Raonic will go through in 3 sets.
Ok. Time to catch up with some sleep...
Jan 19, 2012
AO Day 4: The big yawn at Rod Laver Arena
If you're a hardcore tennis fan and look for exciting 5-set-matches... don't go to Rod Laver Arena. At least for now. Save your money and look elsewhere.
Ticket holders at RLA were of course able to see the big names: On Thursday, Sharapova, Serena and Novak stepped up. They won their matches easily, too easily, reminding the older spectators of how Tennis used to be when Steffi Graf and Monica Seles graced the courts. Warm up, destroy the opponent, and back to the lockers. The atmosphere on the stands, as far as I can assess from my TV set, was unsurprisingly reserved.
There can be no excitement without suspense. Which makes it all the more pathetic to see Maria Sharapova celebrate another point with a pumped fist when she is leading 6-0 5-1 with the opponent asking for mercy.
So,w hat happened on the other courts? The lovely Ana Ivanovic had a very convincing win, and very secretly I hope she can get very far in this tournament. Please don't choke, Ana! Wimbledon champ Petra Kvitova survived a major scare, and I am happy about that. I am not a lot into Petra, I don't really know why. Her opponent was Carla Suarez from Spain, a former AO quarter-finalist. That small lady knows how to play: With a one-handed backhand! Beautiful! That's how I love tennis! And it gives me hope to see that in the women's circuit of today you can be successful with a one-handed backhand when virtually anyoone else hammers the ball with two hands. Well done Carla, you are on your way back to the glory days of 2008/09! No te desanimes!
After a tricky first-round appearance, Germany's Sabine Lisicki delivered much better against Shahar Peer. I also hope she gets far!
On the men's side, the alwys unpredictable Frenchmen Jo and Gael powered through, Murray had an easy day at the office, and my buddy Daveeeeed Ferrer struggled to send Ryan Sweeting back home. Go David!
The night session at Rod Laver Arena ended with another low point. The much-awaited showdown between veterans Andy Roddick and Lleyton hewitt was cut short as Andy had to retire after the third set. I couldn't see the match (University duties grrr) but I saw a picture of Andy sitting on his bench that almost made me cry. He had such a disappointed look on his face. I must say that I absolutely adore Andy, one of the funniest characters in the game, and a fair one on top. He did a lot of the sport, but is generally underestimated because Roger always stole his thunder. I really wish he would win a second Grand Slam title, he deserves it. Hewitt will clash with young hopeful Milos Raonic from Canada. I hope Rusty Hewitt will keep up with expectations.
Despite the negative note, I believe that things can only get better at RL Arena! It is a beautiful stadium with a big name and even bigger fans. Aussie fans will soon get what they deserve: Drama baby, drama!
Day 5 on RLA will start with Vamos-Rafa facing Lukas Lacko. If Rafa's knee is alright, the match should go his way easily, but let's not forget: Last year, Lacko managed to give Rafa a bagel (6-0 !). After that, Roger will face Big Ivo K., service monster ans Twitter poet. And the night session, with local hero Tomic facing Dolgopolovolopologolopov promises to be a cracker!
What will happen on the other courts? I am looking fwd to see my frontrunner Vika Azarenka play young German hopeful Barthel, as well as the big gun duel between Isner and Feliciano Lopez. I see five sets there.
Lu vs Del Potro also sounds very promising.
Hey, did I mention one-handed backhands? Do you love them as I do? Then DON'T MISS 2 of the best backhands in the game facing each other, Wawrinka vs Almagro. Wonderful ! Suerte, Nico!!
Get ready, Tennis fans down under! The third round is about to begin, that's when the Grand Slam really starts getting exciting. How I wish I could be there.
Next year I will. This year, my couch in a Brussels livingroom will do.
@AtleticoDave
Ticket holders at RLA were of course able to see the big names: On Thursday, Sharapova, Serena and Novak stepped up. They won their matches easily, too easily, reminding the older spectators of how Tennis used to be when Steffi Graf and Monica Seles graced the courts. Warm up, destroy the opponent, and back to the lockers. The atmosphere on the stands, as far as I can assess from my TV set, was unsurprisingly reserved.
There can be no excitement without suspense. Which makes it all the more pathetic to see Maria Sharapova celebrate another point with a pumped fist when she is leading 6-0 5-1 with the opponent asking for mercy.
So,w hat happened on the other courts? The lovely Ana Ivanovic had a very convincing win, and very secretly I hope she can get very far in this tournament. Please don't choke, Ana! Wimbledon champ Petra Kvitova survived a major scare, and I am happy about that. I am not a lot into Petra, I don't really know why. Her opponent was Carla Suarez from Spain, a former AO quarter-finalist. That small lady knows how to play: With a one-handed backhand! Beautiful! That's how I love tennis! And it gives me hope to see that in the women's circuit of today you can be successful with a one-handed backhand when virtually anyoone else hammers the ball with two hands. Well done Carla, you are on your way back to the glory days of 2008/09! No te desanimes!
After a tricky first-round appearance, Germany's Sabine Lisicki delivered much better against Shahar Peer. I also hope she gets far!
On the men's side, the alwys unpredictable Frenchmen Jo and Gael powered through, Murray had an easy day at the office, and my buddy Daveeeeed Ferrer struggled to send Ryan Sweeting back home. Go David!
The night session at Rod Laver Arena ended with another low point. The much-awaited showdown between veterans Andy Roddick and Lleyton hewitt was cut short as Andy had to retire after the third set. I couldn't see the match (University duties grrr) but I saw a picture of Andy sitting on his bench that almost made me cry. He had such a disappointed look on his face. I must say that I absolutely adore Andy, one of the funniest characters in the game, and a fair one on top. He did a lot of the sport, but is generally underestimated because Roger always stole his thunder. I really wish he would win a second Grand Slam title, he deserves it. Hewitt will clash with young hopeful Milos Raonic from Canada. I hope Rusty Hewitt will keep up with expectations.
Despite the negative note, I believe that things can only get better at RL Arena! It is a beautiful stadium with a big name and even bigger fans. Aussie fans will soon get what they deserve: Drama baby, drama!
Day 5 on RLA will start with Vamos-Rafa facing Lukas Lacko. If Rafa's knee is alright, the match should go his way easily, but let's not forget: Last year, Lacko managed to give Rafa a bagel (6-0 !). After that, Roger will face Big Ivo K., service monster ans Twitter poet. And the night session, with local hero Tomic facing Dolgopolovolopologolopov promises to be a cracker!
What will happen on the other courts? I am looking fwd to see my frontrunner Vika Azarenka play young German hopeful Barthel, as well as the big gun duel between Isner and Feliciano Lopez. I see five sets there.
Lu vs Del Potro also sounds very promising.
Hey, did I mention one-handed backhands? Do you love them as I do? Then DON'T MISS 2 of the best backhands in the game facing each other, Wawrinka vs Almagro. Wonderful ! Suerte, Nico!!
Get ready, Tennis fans down under! The third round is about to begin, that's when the Grand Slam really starts getting exciting. How I wish I could be there.
Next year I will. This year, my couch in a Brussels livingroom will do.
@AtleticoDave
Jan 18, 2012
AO Day 3: Why I don't wanna be a Tennis umpire
Surely no one in Melbourne noticed, but a certain Spanish-German blogger based in Brussels spent the whole night in front of the TV watching the Day Session of Day 3 of the Australian Open, his favourite tournament.
He was pleased with Nadal's win, but also with the performance of his opponent, Tommy Haas. The German put up a brave fight, never resigned and won some wonderful points. It is a pleasure to watch him play Tennis, and I think every fan hopes he can stay on the Tour for another couple of years. He deserves some injury-free seasons.
Alejandro Falla's win against a surprisingly bad-tempered Mardy Fish was also very pleasant, I like the game of the Colombian. At a time when Europeans dominated the sport, he could give Tennis a little push in his country. It is also great to see Kohlschreiber finally win a couple of Grand Slam matches, and Feliciano power himself through the draw so far.
So far, so good. I tucked myself into bed, slept for 90 minutes, and went to University.
I came home seven hours later, slept four hours, and here I am now watching two highlights from the men's side I had missed: Isner vs Nalbandian and Wawrinka vs Baghdatis.
It seems incredible that these are second matches of a Grand Slam, because all four guys are exceptional tennis players. But success in Tennis means being consistent, and neither Nalby nor Baghy were able to do that, for several reasons I am not gonna focus on now. Fact is: Both are former GS finalist, and both are outside the Top 32. AND both lost their matches today. That's allright. It can happen. But do it with style!
Apparently, both players left their manners in the locker room.
Nalbandian's match will be remembered for the hawkeye controversy at the end of the match. It's 8-8 in the fifth set, Big Isner serves, and Nalbandian has his third break point. This point would then decide the game: Isner serves, ball touches the net, just falls inside the service box. Nalbandian isn't sure if the ball wasn't out, looks at the umpire Kader Nouni, hesitates, but remains calm and awaits another first serve.
Isner then bombs one of his routine first serves down the line. Linesperson calls it out, Nouni overrules. Nalbandian looks at Nouni, can't believe his ears. He walks to the line, observes it for any trace of the ball (there must be a crack on the surface...) , thinks for a long while, and as Nouni calls "Deuce!", suddenly Nalbandian asks for a challenge. Nouni refuses. Nalbandian goes berserk. Discusses with Nouni, calls for a supervises, stops playing for 3 or 4 minutes. The rest is history. Isner wins the service game, and breaks Nalbandian to secure the victory as Nalbandian uncontrollably throws his racket away (again!).
Was Nouni wrong to make the call? Well, it was a bit risky overruling the serve. He was successful overruling minutes before, but then the serve was clearly out, and it was closer to his chair, giving him a good look. That was not the case with this controversial point. It's impossible for the naked eye to see a 240 km/h serve touching the middle line from his position.
He had however the right to overrule, because his gut feeling told him that the ball was in. No problem in modern times, right? We have hawkeye. If the player doesn't like the decicion, just call for technology.
But Nalbandian waited too long. The rules clearly indicate that a player must ask IMMEDIATELY for the review. No one can first seek the mark and then ask for hawkeye whenever he pleases. The players know that, but they believe that they are above the law. Nouni was acting according to the rules when refusing the hawkeye at the moment, although the TELEGRAPH doesn't seem to agree. The tight score screamed for the technical review. But the score shouldn't matter. Rules are rules.
Nalbandian's comments after the match do not deserve any mention. Tennis refs are doing a good and complicated job. Basta.
Rules are rules, and one basic rule is to give players a warning when they abuse their racket.
However, I am not sure how a player should be penalized if he abuses four rackets in half a minute. Yep, after losing his serve in the third set, Baghdatis destroyed his racket during the changeover, smashing it 7 (!!!) times on the floor, then handed the remains of the racket to a ballboy (a custom I don't like.. ballboys shouldn't handle players rackets when they are destroyed... with a bit of bad luck their hands might be injured. Here's the video... Just look at Baghdatis' RACKET.
Then, he took three more rackets, some of them still inside their plastic, and smashed them too.
The ref waited until the madness stopped, then handed Baghdatis a warning. The Cypriot reacted by smiling and shaking his head.
Yo, Bad Boy Baghy, what do u expect? You know the rules right? You were lucky not to receive a point penalty, in my eyes. That behaviour is unacceptable, there can be no excuses.
Where I am getting at: We think that only football refs are being disrespected, but Tennis refs endure a similar level of disrespect. It's human to lose your temper, but then you have to deal with the consequences.
I know that the ATP has other issues to deal with right now, but I believe it's time to protect the umpires. Very often, umpires don't apply the strict rules (repeatedly warning a player for taking too much time) because either they fear the player's reaction, or the believe they will be ridiculized by being the only ref sticking to the rules. Refs need to step up and remind players of each other's respective roles. And when they do, the ATP must support them.
He was pleased with Nadal's win, but also with the performance of his opponent, Tommy Haas. The German put up a brave fight, never resigned and won some wonderful points. It is a pleasure to watch him play Tennis, and I think every fan hopes he can stay on the Tour for another couple of years. He deserves some injury-free seasons.
Alejandro Falla's win against a surprisingly bad-tempered Mardy Fish was also very pleasant, I like the game of the Colombian. At a time when Europeans dominated the sport, he could give Tennis a little push in his country. It is also great to see Kohlschreiber finally win a couple of Grand Slam matches, and Feliciano power himself through the draw so far.
So far, so good. I tucked myself into bed, slept for 90 minutes, and went to University.
I came home seven hours later, slept four hours, and here I am now watching two highlights from the men's side I had missed: Isner vs Nalbandian and Wawrinka vs Baghdatis.
It seems incredible that these are second matches of a Grand Slam, because all four guys are exceptional tennis players. But success in Tennis means being consistent, and neither Nalby nor Baghy were able to do that, for several reasons I am not gonna focus on now. Fact is: Both are former GS finalist, and both are outside the Top 32. AND both lost their matches today. That's allright. It can happen. But do it with style!
Apparently, both players left their manners in the locker room.
Nalbandian's match will be remembered for the hawkeye controversy at the end of the match. It's 8-8 in the fifth set, Big Isner serves, and Nalbandian has his third break point. This point would then decide the game: Isner serves, ball touches the net, just falls inside the service box. Nalbandian isn't sure if the ball wasn't out, looks at the umpire Kader Nouni, hesitates, but remains calm and awaits another first serve.
Isner then bombs one of his routine first serves down the line. Linesperson calls it out, Nouni overrules. Nalbandian looks at Nouni, can't believe his ears. He walks to the line, observes it for any trace of the ball (there must be a crack on the surface...) , thinks for a long while, and as Nouni calls "Deuce!", suddenly Nalbandian asks for a challenge. Nouni refuses. Nalbandian goes berserk. Discusses with Nouni, calls for a supervises, stops playing for 3 or 4 minutes. The rest is history. Isner wins the service game, and breaks Nalbandian to secure the victory as Nalbandian uncontrollably throws his racket away (again!).
Was Nouni wrong to make the call? Well, it was a bit risky overruling the serve. He was successful overruling minutes before, but then the serve was clearly out, and it was closer to his chair, giving him a good look. That was not the case with this controversial point. It's impossible for the naked eye to see a 240 km/h serve touching the middle line from his position.
He had however the right to overrule, because his gut feeling told him that the ball was in. No problem in modern times, right? We have hawkeye. If the player doesn't like the decicion, just call for technology.
But Nalbandian waited too long. The rules clearly indicate that a player must ask IMMEDIATELY for the review. No one can first seek the mark and then ask for hawkeye whenever he pleases. The players know that, but they believe that they are above the law. Nouni was acting according to the rules when refusing the hawkeye at the moment, although the TELEGRAPH doesn't seem to agree. The tight score screamed for the technical review. But the score shouldn't matter. Rules are rules.
Nalbandian's comments after the match do not deserve any mention. Tennis refs are doing a good and complicated job. Basta.
Rules are rules, and one basic rule is to give players a warning when they abuse their racket.
However, I am not sure how a player should be penalized if he abuses four rackets in half a minute. Yep, after losing his serve in the third set, Baghdatis destroyed his racket during the changeover, smashing it 7 (!!!) times on the floor, then handed the remains of the racket to a ballboy (a custom I don't like.. ballboys shouldn't handle players rackets when they are destroyed... with a bit of bad luck their hands might be injured. Here's the video... Just look at Baghdatis' RACKET.
Then, he took three more rackets, some of them still inside their plastic, and smashed them too.
The ref waited until the madness stopped, then handed Baghdatis a warning. The Cypriot reacted by smiling and shaking his head.
Yo, Bad Boy Baghy, what do u expect? You know the rules right? You were lucky not to receive a point penalty, in my eyes. That behaviour is unacceptable, there can be no excuses.
Where I am getting at: We think that only football refs are being disrespected, but Tennis refs endure a similar level of disrespect. It's human to lose your temper, but then you have to deal with the consequences.
I know that the ATP has other issues to deal with right now, but I believe it's time to protect the umpires. Very often, umpires don't apply the strict rules (repeatedly warning a player for taking too much time) because either they fear the player's reaction, or the believe they will be ridiculized by being the only ref sticking to the rules. Refs need to step up and remind players of each other's respective roles. And when they do, the ATP must support them.
Jan 17, 2012
Australian Open first round wrap-up
The Australian Open is an amazing tournament. I have never been there but I hope to do so in 2013. It does look fantastic on TV, as does the city of Melbourne.
The skyblue court, the mentality of the Aussie crowd, the amazing matches... The AO is my favourite Grand Slam. A year could not start off better than this.
What happened so far? Just a few hours ago, the local fans witnessed another disappointment as their hero Sam Stosur was kicked out. Yep, the current US Open champion had all her nightmares revisit her. She choked. Again. Although, Pete Sampras once said that it's not choking as long as you don't get to the point where you can actually succeed. Her opponent, Sorana Cirstea from Romania, played better than I have ever seen her. Pure power, no fear. Hats off, superbly done!
Not much else to say for the ladies: Azarenka, Kvitova, Clijsters, Sharapova and Co. are safely into the second round. Serena is playing right now. My belly tells me that Azarenka will win the Open.
On the men's side, the two local heroes have survived epic matches. "Rusty" Lleyton Hewitt once again showed true grit, battling down a brave German youngster. On day 1, Bernard Tomic, a Stuttgart native, survived the intense heat and the firepower of Spain's Fernando Verdasco, who is a shadow of his former self. Well done Bernard, that was a tactical masterpiece.
Nole, Rafa, Roger and Murray will go their own way again... unless Tsonga and Monfils really focus and stop being showacts. I really mean it. They have all the talent they need to beat the big 4. But seldom do they have the focus...
Day 3 will see German veteran Tommy Haas, former semifinalist and World No.2, take on Rafael Nadal. I adore Haas' playing style. Injuries have always been a part of his career, but he always fought back. I hope he manages to win one set against Rafa, he deserves it.
The skyblue court, the mentality of the Aussie crowd, the amazing matches... The AO is my favourite Grand Slam. A year could not start off better than this.
What happened so far? Just a few hours ago, the local fans witnessed another disappointment as their hero Sam Stosur was kicked out. Yep, the current US Open champion had all her nightmares revisit her. She choked. Again. Although, Pete Sampras once said that it's not choking as long as you don't get to the point where you can actually succeed. Her opponent, Sorana Cirstea from Romania, played better than I have ever seen her. Pure power, no fear. Hats off, superbly done!
Not much else to say for the ladies: Azarenka, Kvitova, Clijsters, Sharapova and Co. are safely into the second round. Serena is playing right now. My belly tells me that Azarenka will win the Open.
On the men's side, the two local heroes have survived epic matches. "Rusty" Lleyton Hewitt once again showed true grit, battling down a brave German youngster. On day 1, Bernard Tomic, a Stuttgart native, survived the intense heat and the firepower of Spain's Fernando Verdasco, who is a shadow of his former self. Well done Bernard, that was a tactical masterpiece.
Nole, Rafa, Roger and Murray will go their own way again... unless Tsonga and Monfils really focus and stop being showacts. I really mean it. They have all the talent they need to beat the big 4. But seldom do they have the focus...
Day 3 will see German veteran Tommy Haas, former semifinalist and World No.2, take on Rafael Nadal. I adore Haas' playing style. Injuries have always been a part of his career, but he always fought back. I hope he manages to win one set against Rafa, he deserves it.
My Big Opening: 2012 - not the end of the world but a new beginning
No one has been waiting for this- but it happened anyway. Here's my first blog - yep it's coming late, considering that almost everyone has a blog, but better late than never.
Why a Tennis blog? Well, it's the best sport on Earth. I am into many other sports, like Football, Chess and US sports, but Tennis simply rules. Tennis is passion, Tennis is healthy war.
Why the title "Nine Matchpoints"? It's areference to my childhood idol, Michael Stich, and the bitterest defeat he ever endured. One of the worst moments of my life: The Davis Cup semifinal Russia-Germany 1995.
I play it, I watch it, I love it. I think about it day and night, and now, in 2012, i finally got my act together and decided to start writing about it.
Sure, there are enough Tennis blogs out there. But there are even more football blogs out there, so I hope to contribute to a bigger presence of Tennis in the infinite dimensions of the Blog universe.
I don't expect anything from you, dear reader. Click the X if you don't like it. Chances are you will stick around...
Why a Tennis blog? Well, it's the best sport on Earth. I am into many other sports, like Football, Chess and US sports, but Tennis simply rules. Tennis is passion, Tennis is healthy war.
Why the title "Nine Matchpoints"? It's areference to my childhood idol, Michael Stich, and the bitterest defeat he ever endured. One of the worst moments of my life: The Davis Cup semifinal Russia-Germany 1995.
I play it, I watch it, I love it. I think about it day and night, and now, in 2012, i finally got my act together and decided to start writing about it.
Sure, there are enough Tennis blogs out there. But there are even more football blogs out there, so I hope to contribute to a bigger presence of Tennis in the infinite dimensions of the Blog universe.
I don't expect anything from you, dear reader. Click the X if you don't like it. Chances are you will stick around...
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