ATP master TV is a great buy and I highly recommend it. The live streaming can be found on the internet but the quality is no where near the ATP TV. beats cable for sure. ( no, I am not ET and I don’t work for ATP!)

but if you don’t have it, try these:
http://channelsurfing.net

scroll down for the links

or this one
http://justin.tv

goto sports, find a link

this one was showing the matches yesterday:
http://www.justin.tv/slazenger

for TV schedule:
http://www.tennis.com/tvschedule/tvschedule.aspx?id=67

let’s hope Rafa can win today!

August 1st, 2008 at 10:14 am

Someone correct me if I am wrong (this is what it is going to be after the Olympic when everything is normalized and calibrated).
[1]
Federer…..6230 (if he wins the Olympic Gold)
Nadal…….6226 (if he loses at the quarter at Cincy and 1st Rd. at the Olympic)
—————————————-
[2]
Nadal…..6250 (if he loses in the quarter at Cincy and Rd. of 32, i.e. 2nd Rd. at the Olympic)
Federer…6230 (if he wins the Olympic Gold)
—————————————
[3]
Nadal……..6275 (if he loses in the quarter final at Cincy, and loses at Rd. 16, which is 3rd Rd.)
Federer……6230 (if he wins the Olympic Gold)
————————————-
[4]
Nadal……..6325 (if he loses in the semi at Cincy and 1st Rd. of Olympic)
Federer……6230 (if he wins the Olympic Gold)
——————————————-
[5] Most likely scenario (Nadal will be leading Fed by around 1000 points at the time US Open begins)
Nadal….6805-7000 (if he wins Cincy and reaches between semi with Bronze and Olympic win)
Federer…5830 to 5930 (loss between 1st Rd. and Quarters at the Olympic)
————————————————-
Willie from the other thread (for those who are critical of Fed):
“He’s like ‘No. 2, No. 3, it doesn’t matter much. It’s No. 1 that matters.’ But now that Rafa is about to take the No. 1 spot, he’s like ‘I don’t care.’”
————————————–
Quote of the day from Fed to his fans:
“I’m on a great run with my No. 1 ranking. If I would lose it I would want it back…”

August 1st, 2008 at 10:52 am

what am I seeing? Murray gets broken in the opening game?
Moya, the man (sounds sexist, let me qualify, as opposed to baby Murray), has been doing something incredible all along this tournament. And after taking the break, he holds easily).
After the slow start, I hope Murray turns it around.

August 1st, 2008 at 12:22 pm

Yeah, I also commented about this – its pretty sad, but whatever. It was inevitable that Federer would lose the number 1 ranking pretty soon considering the way he’s been playing this year. During the majors – he played well, but Nadal is becoming a bit too strong. However, if Federer gets a consistent coach and works hard instead of focusing on fashion I’m sure he can reclaim his spot as Number 1. Anyways the ONLY way Nadal can become Number 1 is if he wins the tournament. But, he will have to potentially face Djokovic and Murray – two formidable opponents who are fully capable of stopping Nadal on hard court. It should be an interesting tournament to watch now.

VISIT MY BLOG AT: talkaboutsport.blogspot.com
– Talk about All sports

August 1st, 2008 at 12:31 pm

With the double break, it looks like Moya is gonna win the 1st set. When Moya’s forehand gets going, it is hard to stop him. Murray is in trouble.

August 1st, 2008 at 12:33 pm

Projected Winner: Moya
Too early to make this call but, what the heck. This is close to certain now, after a set up and a break up early in the 2nd set.

August 1st, 2008 at 12:51 pm

Suddenly Murray is rising from the ashes, hitting more winners and serving better. On the other hand, Moya starts showing signs of weakness.
And now I am forced to take back my projection. So the projection changes to “cannot be declared yet.”

August 1st, 2008 at 1:10 pm

Momentum shifts to Murray as he takes lead with a break.
Now, it is almost certain that Murray will win the 2nd set. If he can keep the momentum going, he will be the winner. This is what I like to watch in tennis. If Moya were the playwright of this tennis drama, this is the moment of bathos, as he unintentionally overshoots the mark and drops into trivial or the ridiculous.

August 1st, 2008 at 1:21 pm

Murray is able to keep the momentum going. He has resuscitated into the same Murray that eliminated Djoko at Toronto. He is replaying the same excellence. There is every reason to believe now that he will win the match.
Thank you.

August 1st, 2008 at 1:46 pm

i never saw willie’s thread (just reading the excerpt above).

although i don’t think roger has said he doesn’t care if nadal takes the ranking (most of the reports i have read has him commenting that nadal deserves it), i will say that he has been dismissive with losses in the past year.

after montreal last year he claimed the loss was ‘insignificant’ which struck me as a little petulant, but not doubt he was still thinking of that volley at 40-0 loved he missed to close out the first set.

i actually find it kind of fascinating to watch how he is reacting to these losses. time will tell if it’s only a bad year or the start of more of the same patchyness.

August 1st, 2008 at 1:52 pm

andrea

they ask these questions right after the match and it goes on and on and on. They guy just lost a match he would have won most of the times and is likely to lose his No 1 ranking. That’s why even a Rafa fan, I don’t care about those comments either. he has praised Rafa many times and said that if he wasn’t No 1 , he wished for Rafa to replace him. that’s enough for me.

August 1st, 2008 at 2:06 pm

Andrea,
Willie combined what Federer said yesterday and back in September 2007. Here is the link to the old interview if you missed to read(it is at the bottom of the page): http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/tennis/usopen07/news/story?id=3012146

August 1st, 2008 at 2:18 pm

Shital:

Thanks for that link. Interesting comments by Fed. He’s always stated, and rather emphatically too, that he likes being No. 1 — it’s very important to him. The reasons he gave were: (1) People show you more respect; and (2) They listen to whatever you have to say.

If Federer loses the No. 1 ranking, he will be heartbroken. He likes the status and all of the accolades abd adulation that’s given to a No. 1 ranked player. He’ll have a very difficult time adjusting to No. 2. If we think he’s having problems now, as the saying goes, “you ain’t seen nuttin’ yet.” Simply put, he’ll be devastated.

August 1st, 2008 at 2:58 pm

Here actual Q/A from the presser:

Q. To what extent would you hope that Nadal doesn’t win this tournament?
ROGER FEDERER: I don’t care.

The question was ‘how desperately you want Rafa to loose now?’. This was asked right after a loss to frustrating player like Karlovic. Also we don’t know anything about the tone of the reporter who is asking the question and Roger’s history with that reporter.

so many times people throw in one or two lines from players post match interview (not talking about just Roger here) and try to understand his psyche. If Roger was such a cocky/arrogant a**hole, why on earth will he win the sportsmanship awards??? there he gets voted by fellow players who know him lot better than any media person or fan will know. I will take their word over anyone else.

August 1st, 2008 at 3:00 pm

lol, I cant get enough of his royal highness losing.

August 1st, 2008 at 3:15 pm

To the dude with remarks instead of names:

Like I said earlier that I am a Nadal fan and was half hoping for RF to lose to help Nadal get No. 1 faster, but your continuous gloating of Fed’s loss is really distasteful.

I’m sure Nadal would rather take over the no.1 position with Federer playing his best anytime.

August 1st, 2008 at 3:32 pm

I have been amazed by the outpouring of support for RF on his website. Almost 2 million, a big jump since he has been going through a slump. His fans who would normally stay in the background have taken time to write to show their support. And that is a real tribute to RF and what he has accomplished over the last few years. I wonder how you guys are going to spin this. Journalists seem to have a licencse to say anything they want, spin it anyway they want and there are people who are morons out there who are unable to read and evaluate what the truth is. Or is it that some people would like to believe the worst of people. I guess it makes them feel powerful. How would any of you like to be hounded with stupid, inane and mean spirited questions when you are down? Give RF a break. He is trying to get back his rhytm. What a bunch of blood sucking vampires out there.

August 1st, 2008 at 4:42 pm

zola,

thanks for posting the match links; as a result, i am able to watch the matches today instead of the scoreboard. in canada we’re getting just women’s at the moment, and there is not much there to shout about it!

August 1st, 2008 at 4:45 pm

Shital – Novak’s looking more focused today isn’t he? But his first serves are still at only 62% – better but not enough. He needs to get more easy points off his serves, because then he can expend his energy on breaking and making matches quick.

August 1st, 2008 at 4:52 pm

Hi Jane !

A little better for sure, yet not enough,” like you said.
There is glimmer of hope, at least in this match.

August 1st, 2008 at 4:58 pm

Yes- he served very well in that last game to take the set, and upped his percentage to 69%. More of that please Djoko!

August 1st, 2008 at 5:03 pm

Djoko is showing his ball striking abilities; he’s playing very well with some brilliant shots and placement. I hope his energy will remain at a high level because some of the rallies are pretty long. He’s showing great respect for Gulbis’ game. Gulbis is also displaying some of his great shot-making abilities. His cross-court forehand shot is similar to that of James Blake’s when he is playing at his best.

August 1st, 2008 at 5:03 pm

Fedophile Files: The GOAT Factor

http://gototennis.blogspot.com/2008/07/fedophile-files-goat-factor.html

August 1st, 2008 at 5:07 pm

Ravi,
It is great that Federer fans are supporting him uring this hard time. that’s what the fans are for. about the questions, yes, they can be very cruel at times.

also please read my response ( 2:06 pm) to andrea on the same subject.

Jane,
you are welcome.
I am glad Ivo won.He is so likeable!
same as Gulbis, but he cannot outplay Djoko. Seems Djoko is getting better with every match!

JCF
that’s a fun page!

August 1st, 2008 at 5:23 pm

Von,

Djoko’s energy seems fine so far, but he does have the tendency to get discouraged and lose focus. Too many unforced errors too but at least that first serve % is better.

August 1st, 2008 at 5:32 pm

Thank you Djoko, you made my day !
Thank you, Jane !

And the invincible will be waiting for him tomorrow, so he needs to watch how the best player plays this evening and practice some serve before going to bed.

Von,
I am happy regardless of how he will do tomorrow. I can only hope he puts up a good fight.

August 1st, 2008 at 5:51 pm

Shital – I agree; last year he lost in the first round here so this is a great improvement and he seems to be getting back into a groove.

August 1st, 2008 at 5:53 pm

jane, Sar & Shital:

Djoko did it in stright sets no less!! You should all be happy.

Gulbis seemed to be suffering some pain from his knee, and he made too many UEs. He’s got to learn to curb that forehand from overhitting. Djoko played a smart match; he anticipated Gulbis” moves and was able to reply to his shots with good placement. Also, he at times, closed down the net, thus disallowing Gulbis to volley. all in all, Dxjoko has gotten better with each match and is looking fresh. Today, ending that match in straight sets has allowed him to conserve some energy. Keep smiling. Shital, I know you like to keep your elation under wraps, but today you’re allowed to celebrate a bit. So what are you waiting for, smile. :)

August 1st, 2008 at 5:58 pm

Some interesting quotes from after Fed’s last grand slam win. I am quoting an article that has some of his quotes.

“New guys challenging me — this is my biggest motivation out there,” Federer said. “Seeing them challenging me, and then beating them in the finals.”

…

About an hour after Sunday’s match, Djokovic walked outside the stadium to a players’ area, where a dozen friends and relatives awaited. Djokovic posed for photos, then Dad helped him pop a bottle of champagne. Clearly, Djokovic was happy to be here.

Federer cared only about getting the victory.

He was asked whether Djokovic is ready to overtake the second-ranked Nadal.

“No. 2, No. 3 — it doesn’t matter much,” Federer said. “It’s No. 1 that matters.”

August 1st, 2008 at 6:00 pm

Von,
I am smiling.
Earlier I remembered you in my post on the other thread.
Thanks.

August 1st, 2008 at 6:17 pm

Correction: not “on the other thread.”

August 1st, 2008 at 6:20 pm

Gulbis has knee pain, too? Murray complained about it. Rafa has his knees taped. and I won’t even start with women’s tour.

August 1st, 2008 at 6:35 pm

tennisontherocks,

Rafa said in his interview that the locker room is full of players icing their feet and knee. Hard courts are the worst for human boy and yet there is a full 9 months of them. pluse the olympics now! no wonder.

several players are out with injury, Baghdatis, Tsonga,…its just not friendly to the body.

August 1st, 2008 at 6:39 pm

I meant human body!

The “d” on my keyboard is on strike today!

August 1st, 2008 at 6:40 pm

tennisontherocks:

Is your post name saying that tennis is going down the tubes? :) Gulbis’ knee had to be taped due to pain emanating from the patella. Murray has a split knee cap which flares up very often. Baghdatis is out with wrist problems and Sharapova with her shoulder. I don’t think Murray’s problem is from the hardcourts — it’s a birth defect. Neither is Baghdatis’ and Sharapova’s problem – upper body.

August 1st, 2008 at 6:53 pm

‘Is your post name saying that tennis is going down the tubes? :)’

its more for my drinking preference, like ‘scotch on the rocks’ etc…but it so sounds depressing, no :)

August 1st, 2008 at 7:06 pm

Neil Diamond used to sing : “Love on the rocks…” That’s even more depressing, yes? :)

August 1st, 2008 at 7:11 pm

Could the ATP lessen the hard court season without finding themselves with another Hamburg case on its hands?

August 1st, 2008 at 7:17 pm

Hamburg should grow grass on their courts and make it a masters series event. They have roof on their stadium, too.

earlier this year, someone talked about making miami the green clay event. at that point, I did not think much about it. But considering how badly US players do on clay, that may not be a bad idea. Miami courts are already slow and green clay is faster than regular clay.

August 1st, 2008 at 7:36 pm

Thanks. I was not sure how hard it was for an event to change the court surface.

August 1st, 2008 at 7:39 pm

“No. 2, No. 3 — it doesn’t matter much,” Federer said. “It’s No. 1 that matters.”

This line does not bode well for him right now. I’m no longer certain about how he will react to this. Will he come back even stronger, or will he pull a Borg and lack the will to continue the fight, with nothing left to defend?

My hope is the former, but these are some very strong words he uses.

“Could the ATP lessen the hard court season without finding themselves with another Hamburg case on its hands?”

I would like to know what happens if the ATP sinks. Will men’s tennis continue on with another organisation taking the reins? They better find a successor quickly. Or will men’s tennis be cancelled? Someone may have to donate to the ATP.

“earlier this year, someone talked about making miami the green clay event. at that point, I did not think much about it. But considering how badly US players do on clay, that may not be a bad idea. Miami courts are already slow and green clay is faster than regular clay.”

Green clay is not an official surface endorsed by the ATP tour. That’s something some juniors might grow up on, but it’s used as often as synthetic grass.

August 1st, 2008 at 7:57 pm

I am pleased that this match is much more interesting than IVo-Kohl match. So far Lapentti is hanging in there with Rafa. He has amazing baseline game, and that kinda matches with Rafa’s. I just hope the match remains close till the end.

August 1st, 2008 at 8:05 pm

Gotta give Lapentti some credit; he’s playing very well against Rafa. The commentators said he scoped Rafa’s match with Haas himself.

August 1st, 2008 at 8:06 pm

Nadal took the first set but Lapentti is playing well. Match could still go either way! Even if Rafa makes it through today, hard to see him beat Djoko in the semis.

August 1st, 2008 at 8:35 pm

Lapentti simply wowed me in the 1st set, though he lost. This first set was almost as good as the set Gasquet played Rafa.

August 1st, 2008 at 8:38 pm

Lapentti has the right game plan against Rafa – he’s really mixing things up and not trying to play lights out tennis. He’s using the backhand slice well, and coming to the net, keep his groundies deep etc. It’s just that he’s not always been able to execute when it matters, on break points and such. But a good effort nonetheless and fun to watch so far.

August 1st, 2008 at 9:03 pm

He’s spent now though. This match is done and Rafa is the new numero uno.

August 1st, 2008 at 9:04 pm

Yes! Nadal will be No.1 finally! But all credit to Lapentti who played well right to the end.

August 1st, 2008 at 9:11 pm

Fabulous Rafa elevates his level and breaks Lapentti. The new number 1 plays like one. Who can think about beating this guy when you can hardly take a set away?
Congratulation to him for the win and another spectacular athleticism!

August 1st, 2008 at 9:11 pm

Congrats RAFA! You’ve earned it!

August 1st, 2008 at 9:12 pm

Vamos Rafa !

August 1st, 2008 at 9:20 pm

All hail the new #1!

August 1st, 2008 at 9:26 pm

“F” Cincy (and at this point, the No. 1), Roger’s all about the Olympics! Since he’s so obsessed with winning the Gold, I think his success there (or lack thereof) will be the best way to measure his game and confidence since Wimbledon.

Rafa’s amazing, but I think he’s still better on grass and clay than on hard courts. But Roger’s “fear factor” has plummeted, so who knows what freakish loss he could sustain in Beijing. Oh, and there’s always Djokovic to contend with

We shall see!

August 1st, 2008 at 9:27 pm

“jane Says:

Gotta give Lapentti some credit; he’s playing very well against Rafa. The commentators said he scoped Rafa’s match with Haas himself.”

He did. I saw him in the audience in the Haas-Nadal match. The commentator was too inexperienced to recognise him however. He’s done well for himself. Played an entertaining match. Rafa hit some crazy winners near the end though. In the last service game of Lapentti’s, Rafa hit 3 running forehand winners which were quite impressive. I hope tomorrow’s match against Djokovic will be a great one, regardless of who wins.

August 1st, 2008 at 9:29 pm

Congrats to Rafa Nadal…….a born warrior.

August 1st, 2008 at 9:30 pm

“Or will men’s tennis be cancelled? Someone may have to donate to the ATP.”

Fed can fly the players around on his Netjet. He’ll have time since Masters tourneys no longer mean anything.

August 1st, 2008 at 9:30 pm

mean anything to him.

August 1st, 2008 at 9:31 pm

Ouch. More and more tournaments fade into irrelevance by the day.

One has to wonder how the f— the ATP, administrators of the men’s tour, awarded AMS status to tournaments without some out-clause that allowed them to rescind that status. Ignoramuses.

In all honesty, Hamburg should be removed and a grass AMS should be added somewhere, though admittedly that will be difficult. Neither Wimbledon or RG will budge.

5 out of 9 masters are on hard, and 3 on clay. One for grass would be nice.

August 1st, 2008 at 9:42 pm

WOW!!!
Congrats to Rafa. Unbelievable player.

Although I’ll be rooting for Nole tomorrow, I can not say I’m a big optimist.

August 1st, 2008 at 9:45 pm

Giner:

“He did. I saw him in the audience in the Haas-Nadal match. The commentator was too inexperienced to recognise him however.”

On the Tennis Channel delayed broadcast – different commentators, the cameraman spotted Lapenti, without a cap on, and the commentators said “Look who’s here”.

I hope Djoko’s coach scouted the match tonight.

_____________

Lapenti played very well for a former No. 6 player. It was entertaining tennis for the first 75 minutes, and then he slowed down. The guy’s 31, playing against a 22 year-old. Similar to Sampras and Fed, but he made it competitive. There’s life in “old” legs too.

___________
Mary:

“Fed can fly the players around on his Netjet. He’ll have time since Masters tourneys no longer mean anything.”

You’re funny. Isn’t Fed somewhat like a shareholder in the NetJet company? I don’t think he owns the aircraft but requisitions it when it’s needed? Or does he own it outright? How does that work.

BTW, are you the same Mary who gave us the Justin/Slazenger link last week for the Toronto match? Thanks a lot. I saved it on my “favorites” and today I was able to pull it up.

August 1st, 2008 at 9:50 pm

I think Djokovic should be the fresher of the two going into tomorrow. Nadal’s last two matches weren’t easy, and he’s played a lot more tennis than Djokovic lately.

He’s got one monkey off his back now, so losing to Djokovic would be a fitting way to go out. He’s done what he’s needed to do and will be top seed at USO. How Fed reacts to being #2 in his pressers will be something to look forward to. The media are not going to give him a break.

An interesting yet forgotten statistic is that as great as Rafa’s year has been, it wasn’t until late April that Rafa won his first title this year, at the beginning of the clay season (Monte Carlo). By that time, Djokovic had already won AO and Indian Wells, the first two big tournaments of the year, and it was he, not Nadal who looked poised to usurp Federer’s throne. Nadal’s season really began with the clay.

If he had skipped Rome instead of losing to Ferrero (he was in no real position to play), imagine his winning streak now… adding Monte Carlo and Barca to it. 7 tournaments and still alive.

I give him about a 40/60 chance against Djokovic. Doable, but he’ll have to rely on out-mentally-toughing Djokovic. e.g. Djokovic chokes.

Does anyone know what Djokovic’s record in 5 setters is? He has yet to convince me that he has the fitness to go the distance on the big stage. He’s mostly been winning it easily.

August 1st, 2008 at 9:58 pm

At this point, Fed should worry about ND in the race for 2nd. After Cincy, Fed will be third in the championship race.

August 1st, 2008 at 9:59 pm

Could someone fill me in on this ‘Masters 1000′ business starting next year?

If Masters series are going to be worth 1000 points, will Grand Slams be worth 2000? Will smaller tournaments get their points doubled also?

If so, what was the point of this exercise?

What will the surface be in Shanghai, which replaces Hamburg?

Isn’t it too early to implement this new system with a litigation pending this late? What if the lawsuit isn’t settled by next year?

August 1st, 2008 at 10:04 pm

Congratulations to Rafa , the new world No 1 and to all his fans and supporters.

Loads of respect to Federer, always a great champion.

Lapentti playe great. I feared Rafa might lose this match! I think Rafa was a bit tense as well, but the last two games of the match, he just went up a gear and that was it!
btw, I saw him in the crow yesterday as well. He was there during the whole match. Haas was also watching Rafa-Serra, the night before.

Tomorrow, tough match , very tough match against Djoko. Rafa has played a lot and I think he is really tire.Djoko is more fresh and played much better today. Besides this is his best surface. RAfa needs to play 10 times better than today to have a chance to win tomorrow.

I am just happy with the result today. He is now No 1. If he wins tomorrow, it will be the icing on the cake, if not, he can take a couple more days to rest and will be No 1 on August 18! Vamos! what a historic day!

August 1st, 2008 at 10:05 pm

sorry, the “d” on my keyboard is just not cooperating!

and by “saw him in the crowd”, I mean, I saw Lapentti in the crowd!

August 1st, 2008 at 10:07 pm

Von: Yes and you’re very welcome for the link.

I didn’t get a chance to watch the match. What was Nadal’s reaction after winning?

August 1st, 2008 at 10:10 pm

Mary: The same as usual. Just a fist pump I think. I don’t think he celebrated becoming #1, only winning the match.

The interview will be where we find out, though I get a feeling it will be boring, and he will try and pay as much homage to Federer as possible, for example reaffirming that Federer is still the best player in history.

Kroll makes a very true point that Nadal is boring in the press room. His responses in Spanish tell much more than his english responses. They should ask more questions in spanish. The modesty is taken to such an extreme that it’s fake. The players do respect him for it however.

August 1st, 2008 at 10:19 pm

I can’t believe it for so long I’ve been rooting for Nadal and to finally see a new freakin number 1 brings tears to my eyes especially that its my favorite player out on tour at the moment. Vamos to you RAFA! I hope Fed continues to choke. Do a Borg and quit Federer while your still excepted as a great player left in the game.
Anyway long live our new Champ and top seed at the US Open Rafael Nadal!
The man to catch Nadal will be Djokovic my prediction to win Cincy this week and take over Federer in the ATP Race!

August 1st, 2008 at 10:22 pm

Everyone I am sooo excited that we will finally finally have a brand spanking new world number one player! After a long and horrific four year domination by one player we will finally see the dawn of a new, invigoring, and refreshing young world champion in Rafael nadal. Nobody deserves it more than Rafa so congratulations to him on finally achieving his life long dream.

This is one of the most exciting moments in history to be a tennis fan and I feel privileged to witness this historic changing of the guard.

August 1st, 2008 at 10:53 pm

TD (TAM)
‘This is one of the most exciting moments in history to be a tennis fan and I feel privileged to witness this historic changing of the guard.’

Could not agree with you more my friend best comment apart from my previous one I’ve read. It is the changing of the guard!

August 1st, 2008 at 10:57 pm

Congrats to the Nadal fans for your boy taking the #1 ranking. ESPECIALLY to Zola! One of the best Nadal fans on the board….! Go Zola! Rafa’s now “officially” #1!

August 1st, 2008 at 11:17 pm

Giner,

“The Masters 1000 events will be worth the same amount of points as the grand slams,” ATP spokesman Stephen Duckitt confirmed on April 10, 2007.

When will this reduction for slams begin? I don’t know. For 2009, I think, but not sure, slams may have 2000 points.

You already know which tournaments are 1000 series.

The 500 series include Rotterdam, Dubai, Acapulco, Memphis, Barcelona, Washington, Beijing, Tokyo, Basel and Valencia.

The 250 Series include other smaller tournaments. They are too many, so I am not going to list here.

ATP writes, “The new look calendar, with revised scheduling and mini swings running into each Grand Slam and the ATP Tour Finals, will ensure the season is more understandable for fans and media,..healthier for players.”

August 1st, 2008 at 11:29 pm

TD (Tam) Says:

“Everyone I am sooo excited that we will finally finally have a brand spanking new world number one player! After a long and horrific four year domination by one player we will finally see the dawn of a new, invigoring, and refreshing young world champion in Rafael nadal. Nobody deserves it more than Rafa so congratulations to him on finally achieving his life long dream.”

A short-lived one you hope. Otherwise we’d be replacing one dominant reign with another, leaving us back where we started.

Rafa fans: Please set a better example than Federer fans. Don’t rub it in by badmouthing Federer, and saying ungracious things like “I hope Fed continues to choke. Do a Borg and quit Federer while your still excepted as a great player left in the game.”

You will give the rest of us a bad name, and I think we are better than that. Please respect other players and their fans. By all means, do criticise, but also be judicious in how you do so.

August 1st, 2008 at 11:31 pm

Giner, I believe the new tournament in Shanghai will be played on indoor hardcourt at the stadium where the Tennis Masters Cup has been held the last few years.

Good question re the lawsuit, I can’t imagine how’re they’re going to roll out all the changes in time for the 2009 season with the lawsuit pending.

August 1st, 2008 at 11:34 pm

“The Masters 1000 events will be worth the same amount of points as the grand slams,” ATP spokesman Stephen Duckitt confirmed on April 10, 2007.”

I am in disbelief here. If that is the case, I do hope the ATP loses this suit and goes bankrupt. This is just stupid. It’s beyond stupid. It’s asinine. I don’t know how they even came up with this suggestion. Ettiene de Villers should be fired.

Winning two Masters would be better than winning one GS. Twice as good. A guy could win the calendar grand slam and still be #2 to a guy who won 5 masters. This undermines the importance and class of the slams which have been the holy grail of Tennis since forever.

August 1st, 2008 at 11:36 pm

Giner,
Check out Richard Vach’s post on April 10, 2007. Here is the link.

http://www.tennis-x.com/xblog/2007-04-10/241.php

August 1st, 2008 at 11:43 pm

JCF, maybe it’s their way of forcing players to commit to all the Masters events? Agree about it being stupid though.

August 1st, 2008 at 11:46 pm

FoT,
thanks dear and a big hug to you and your man. I don’t know how long Rafa will stay there but I am glad he is not”the best number 2 who never got to be No 1″.

This is much more enjoyable because of many gracious Fed fans like you and everyone on the other forum.

August 1st, 2008 at 11:46 pm

Giner and JCF,

Here is the correction on that.
http://www.tennis-x.com/xblog/2007-04-11/242.php

August 1st, 2008 at 11:48 pm

OK, that’s better.

It would have been very difficult for Rafa to defend his #1 ranking when all Federer has to do is win Masters 1000 tournaments, 6 of which are on hard court, and 2 on clay.

I still don’t see the need for doubling all points however.

August 1st, 2008 at 11:57 pm

If Djoko can win this tournament, which is unlikely, given the new number 1′s momentum, he’d have accomplished a sweep of the North American Master Series events: Miami (07), Canada (07), Indian Wells (08), and Cincinnati. But I have to give Rafa the edge in the semi; it’s difficult not to give Rafa the edge!

August 2nd, 2008 at 12:09 am

I have been celebrating Rafa’s ascension to No. 1 for several days now. I don’t have anything left to make my praise more effusive.

There is one more good news for Djoko fans as well as Rafa fans: Djoko may not be playing Rafa in as many semis as he did in the past. He will be meeting Federer in the semis more often and will get to play Rafa more in finals. I am excited about this new landscape.

August 2nd, 2008 at 12:17 am

Wade- “Could not agree with you more my friend best comment apart from my previous one I’ve read. It is the changing of the guard!”

*cheers*!

JCF- “A short-lived one you hope. Otherwise we’d be replacing one dominant reign with another, leaving us back where we started.”

Yes I agree. I donot think that Nadal is capable of dominating as many tournaments for as long as Federer has but I am very happy for him to finally attain that world number one status that he has craved for so long, and he really deserves it too.

Shital Green- “I have been celebrating Rafa’s ascension to No. 1 for several days now. I don’t have anything left to make my praise more effusive.”

lol Shital you must be plum tired by now!

“I am excited about this new landscape.”

AMEN. This new generation coming up and the new rivalries will be fun to watch. I am looking forward to it.

August 2nd, 2008 at 12:37 am

JCF
‘Rafa fans: Please set a better example than Federer fans. Don’t rub it in by badmouthing Federer, and saying ungracious things like “I hope Fed continues to choke. Do a Borg and quit Federer while your still excepted as a great player left in the game.”

You will give the rest of us a bad name, and I think we are better than that. Please respect other players and their fans. By all means, do criticise, but also be judicious in how you do so.’

I understand JCF and sorry for the comments earlier its just that its been to long that I’ve been taking crap from the dam federer fans and to finally get them back is sweet now that the tides have turned and a new dominant number 1 is born!

Anyway long live our new Champ and top seed at the US Open Rafael Nadal!
The man to catch Nadal will be Djokovic my prediction to win Cincy this week and take over Federer in the ATP Race!

August 2nd, 2008 at 12:40 am

Since January 2007, Djoko played Rafa 6 times in the semis (4 MS & 2 GS); and with Fed, only twice in the semis (1 MS & 1 GS).

This will reverse. Much to the relief of Rafa and Djoko. And this reversal will increase Djoko’s chances to be No. 2, sooner. Thanks to Rafa, once again.

August 2nd, 2008 at 12:41 am

JCF:

“Rafa fans: Please set a better example than Federer fans. Don’t rub it in by badmouthing Federer, and saying ungracious things like “I hope Fed continues to choke. Do a Borg and quit Federer while your still excepted as a great player left in the game.”

You will give the rest of us a bad name, and I think we are better than that. Please respect other players and their fans. By all means, do criticise, but also be judicious in how you do so.”

Kudos to you for that statement. You’ve just risen to 10 feet tall in my opinion of you. Taller than Dr. Ivo. :) Very sound advice and one which is worthy of praise and demonstrates good character. As the saying goes, “be careful you don’t choke on your gloat.” Good for you JCF and if ever you forget it, I’ll remind you. You know that memory of which you’re so scared. :) :D Cheerio, and all that good stuff.

August 2nd, 2008 at 1:04 am

Mary:

You wanted to know Nadal’s reaction to being No. 1.

I watched the ESPN broadcast. He did a fist pump and his usual ovation to the crowd. Chris Fowler asked him how he felt about being No. 1. Nadal stated it felt good, but he didn’t mind being No. 2, because he was still winning slams and MS tournaments, but anyway it was good to be No. 1. Chris asked him if he was going to party tonight, to which he replied, not yet.

This is not verbatim — just a paraphrase. synopsis.

August 2nd, 2008 at 1:09 am

What was those passing shots from Nadal in second set 1-4 30-30 Lapenti serving?!!! I was amazed!!
Enphatic Number 1 shots, he deserves it!

But I think the edge tomorrow goes to Djoko. Today, sometimes, Nadal didn’t went for the shots he was doing last week. I noticed that he made even less noise than he usually does when he hits those crushing forehands and some of his balls were short.

Eventually he is going to feel the stress and since his “mission” is done (secure on August 18th) tomorrow if Djoko starts playing great Nadal won’t put the same effort as late. Djoko is a number 3 player, much more respectfull to lose a winning streak to.

August 2nd, 2008 at 1:11 am

Daniel,
I give the edge to Djoko too. RAfa said twice today that he feels tired and his movement is not good. A loss tomorrow to Djoko is quite possible.
Djoko has less milage on his legs and this is his surface.

August 2nd, 2008 at 1:17 am

Shital reen:

“This will reverse. Much to the relief of Rafa and Djoko. And this reversal will increase Djoko’s chances to be No. 2, sooner. Thanks to Rafa, once again.”

I see your brain is working overtime, my friend!! You’re already scheming and conniving for Djoko to be No. 2. Guess what, Roddick will be the new No. 1, in 6 months. Now that’s something to get everyone laughing; but, I can dream can’t I? :)

August 2nd, 2008 at 1:24 am

Shital: Gosh, I’m sorry, I’ve done it again, I misspelled your last name. No offense intended. I need to cut my claws.

August 2nd, 2008 at 1:26 am

Sucked in Federer Fans and Roger himself your streak is over my friend say goodbye to number 1 forever you had ya time now get lost. Djokovic is next to hunt you down which will be very soon considering his now back in front of you in the ATP Race for the year.

If Hewitt ever overcomes his injuries everyone tour will lose to him he has the best head to head record with all the top players bar the man who is on his way to crap Roger Federer the world number 2! Hahahahahahahahaha

Nadal number 1 seed at the US Open oh YES! We’ll now be looking at Federer all the way at the bottom of the draw table hahahaha.

But who knows he could be back in the top half when his number 3 in the world which will be very soon!

August 2nd, 2008 at 1:57 am

“Shital Green Says:

Since January 2007, Djoko played Rafa 6 times in the semis (4 MS & 2 GS); and with Fed, only twice in the semis (1 MS & 1 GS).

This will reverse. Much to the relief of Rafa and Djoko. ”

What makes you say that?? the chances for a n3 to land on a n1 or n2 side of a tournament draw is the same…

August 2nd, 2008 at 2:28 am

Great peroid to be a tennis Fan.

Congrats to Rafa.

Rafa fans you are allowed to be happy but tone down the celebrations,Our man has a difficult Job of defending his points,sure Fed will be back and Huckleberry is a great player.

Then to fed fans you should be happy that the person fed passed over the mantle to(mind i did nt use dethroned) is worthy of the honor.You can also celebrate with us Rafa fans.Fed also had it good.

August 2nd, 2008 at 7:21 am

Shital Green:

sorry for the divergence from the current topic but i haven’t been on for a bit now. its always nice to talk to another intellectual.
i really appreciate that in this ‘like’ and ‘omg’ generation, there are still people who will not mangle the language just to look and sound cool. very refreshing indeed. i am an educator so simple things like that please me.

back on track, go nadal. if federer is humble, nadal is the biblical daniel, humble enough to go into the lion’s den and snatch the number 1.

August 2nd, 2008 at 8:03 am

by the way, any atp fantasy tennis players here? my team – gods & monsters – is riding high at the moment (13th when i last checked). i hope to crack into the top 10 next week and start mounting a challenge for the number 1 spot like nadal!

August 2nd, 2008 at 8:10 am

Kofi
I am playing the ATP bracket challenge and eight now I am 1116 th! I have to see how ATP fantasy tennis works.

congratulations to you. I hope you crack into top 10 and maybe top 3?

August 2nd, 2008 at 9:43 am

Serious! Tennis is now interesting.

August 2nd, 2008 at 10:13 am

I think it is not a good thing for him to have all these nice things said about by all his fans, Sampras and some tennis commentators. They love to brag on hos invincible Federer is. Well, all that actually did give alot of pressures to Fed. And he would feels humilated, when he could not fullfill their expectations. Like there were alot of talks about him taking all four grand slams in 2006. Everyone were expecting him to win, when he got into the French’s final. So go on, fanboys! Just brag on how good he is. So he feels insulted when he could fullfill the expectations.

August 2nd, 2008 at 10:27 am

“There is one more good news for Djoko fans as well as Rafa fans: Djoko may not be playing Rafa in as many semis as he did in the past. He will be meeting Federer in the semis more often and will get to play Rafa more in finals. I am excited about this new landscape.”

Stupidity has no bounds indeed! If ignorance is bliss, is stupidity orgasmic? Please let us know!

Whoever made that plea to Nadal fans to do a better job than Federer fans – are you blind or you choose not to see the nadal trolls that have been on this site for god knows how long.

There is, but one truth. Power Corrupts and Absolute power corrupts absolutely.

August 2nd, 2008 at 10:40 am

why should Federer be ashamed or insulted?

Should Sampras or Rod Laver, Lendl or Borg or McEnroe be ashamed? They were all beaten by a new guy and none of them stayed on the top forever.

They are all legends of tennis and now Federer is one of them too. He is 27 and his era was bound to end one day, but look at what he did and the standards he set. It took 3 years for a guy like RAfa with 5 GS , 12 MS and total 30 titles to replace him.

It is hard for me to imagine that no No 1 from now on will not be compared to Federer.

August 2nd, 2008 at 11:17 am

zola:

thanks. i play the brackets too but i havent checked up on that in a while so i must be sinking faster than the titanic out there. i love the fantasy though. i reckon in the future, it should be all season instead of starting at monte carlo

August 2nd, 2008 at 11:29 am

Latent talent

“There is, but one truth. Power Corrupts and Absolute power corrupts absolutely.”

Very wise. Would be wiser if this made Any sense at all here. Stupidity must indeed be orgasmic… you seem to get off on it well enough.

JCF

A “fan” is a generic stereotype and I doubt it is related in any way to the player concerned.

August 2nd, 2008 at 2:38 pm

Speaking of moving up, Murray is now #6 in the world. What a great match against Karlovic. Murray managed that wicked serve incredibly well and showed the variety in his game once again. Plus he is so focused since Wimbledon; it’s excellent to see.

August 2nd, 2008 at 2:40 pm

Murray played phenomenal in all departments, better even at the net.
Congratulations to him !
The way he has been playing in the last couple of matches makes him a serious title contender, even if he is to face Nadal tomorrow.

August 2nd, 2008 at 2:41 pm

Jane
Murray was indeed impressive, and he’s probably the one who will hold fort at the top with Rafa and Novak. His return of serve was awesome though I think Dr Ivo was a notch off his serving today. I didn’t see the match in which Fed lost to Ivo but I am surprised he did considering Ivo’s such a one-trick pony.

August 2nd, 2008 at 3:06 pm

Kroll and Jane,,

Great win for Andy Murray to reach his first MS final. I agree that he will be up there challenging Fed/Rafa/Djoko. He is making that essensial move that Djoko did last year to distance himself from the rest of the ATP and “get in the mix with the big guys”.

and so true, Andy’s focus has been excellent since Wimbledon. He used to win small tournamnts and then exit early in MS. This year his focus is on MS and GS.

I seriously think he has a 50% chance of winning against either Djoko or Rafa tomorrow.

August 2nd, 2008 at 3:30 pm

Latent Talent, are you FedEX reincarnate? You have picked on Shital’s comment below:

There is one more good news for Djoko fans as well as Rafa fans: Djoko may not be playing Rafa in as many semis as he did in the past. He will be meeting Federer in the semis more often and will get to play Rafa more in finals. I am excited about this new landscape.

Then you added the following:

“Stupidity has no bounds indeed! If ignorance is bliss, is stupidity orgasmic? Please let us know!”

Your comments always seem to dwell on bodily functions. What went wrong in your fetal development? And, who’s us. I asked you this question before? Your mention of “Us” tells me you have several personalities all whirling around in your head and the stronger emerges. This must be a difficult battle indeed dealing with so many of you simultaneously.
_______________
Kroll:

Great pick-up and very appropos. He gets off on the bodily functions alright.

“Very wise. Would be wiser if this made Any sense at all here. Stupidity must indeed be orgasmic… you seem to get off on it well enough.”

It would be wise for us to ignore him.

August 2nd, 2008 at 4:18 pm

jane:

I see from your comments that Murray won. Good for him and No. 6 in the ranking too. He has replaced the other Andy. Good exchange, one Andy for another. I suppose it was a great match. Unfortunately, I won’t see the SFs until 9:00 p.m. in my area on delayed broadcast. I should have waited to read the comments.

August 2nd, 2008 at 4:22 pm

Von Says:

“And, I also cited the Murray match, where Nadal had a heated argument with the umpire for his time violation. If you saw that match you would know what I’m talking about. Nadal threated to call the tournament referee if the umpire gave him another time violation.”

I have since seen the dispute you were referring to and am trying to figure out what you are basing your comment that Nadal threatened to call the tournament referee on…was it something the commentators said?

August 2nd, 2008 at 5:12 pm

Von,

I hadn’t even thought about that, but you’re right; I guess Roddick was number 6. Where is he now in the rankings, do you know? It’s a shame he’s been struggling with his shoulder/back now, because he always does well during the late American hard court season. Have you heard anything on his status / future tournaments?

I wonder if Ferrer or Davydenko have fallen yet? Seems like Davy, anyhow, hasn’t been doing well for a while, but then he always plays those obscure little tournaments to rack up points.

Yes, anyhow, Andy Murray won and played well. It’s worth watching even if you do know the results. It’s Murray at his best: focused, hitting some amazing offensive and defensive shots, and breaking that crazy serve of Karlovic’s – though I do agree with Kroll that it wasn’t Dr. Ivo’s best serving day.

I’ll probably watch the Rafa-Djoko match live through one of the links – can’t wait for delayed broadcast!

August 2nd, 2008 at 5:16 pm

Kroll:

I dare you or the poster who made that comment to make sense out of that stupid observation.

If you even have a basic understanding of how the draws are made in tennis tournaments, you would understand how ridiculously asinine that comment is.I guess your head is stuck way too deep in the other poster’s butt for you to even think! Happy sucking up.

August 2nd, 2008 at 5:31 pm

Vulcan:

“I have since seen the dispute you were referring to and am trying to figure out what you are basing your comment that Nadal threatened to call the tournament referee on…was it something the commentators said?”

I hate to have to revist this again, especially in light of Nadal’s new No. 1 status, and I again re-iterate, I mentioned that incident for a reason, because of your comments on Roddick’s AO anger at the umpire, and another poster’s comments that Roddick needs anger management classes or something to that effect. My comments were merely to point out that every one of the players do have issues and none is perfect. The following is my answer to your question:

It depends on which broadcast you watched and commentators you listened to; the commentators I listened to were on the Tennis Channel’s broadcast of that match, and yes, I heard them remark about Nadal’s threat to call the tournament referee several times. Robbie Koenig and Doug Adler were the commentators. The ESPN broadcast on last evening’s match showed Lapenti’s exasperation at Nadal’s over the 25 seconds limitation before serves. It was funny, Brad Gilbert was timing Nadal’s time in betwen serves and he at one time clocked 54 seconds. There were several other times Nadal exceeded the 25 second limitation last evening. He eventually got a time violation at match point and the commentators were laughing about that since he had been in violation many times throughout the whole match before he was cited for that one violation.

Before the match started last night, Chis Fowler at courtside stated (this is not verbatim, but paraphrase) he spoke to the Umpire about Nadal’s time violations, and the umpire stated that he wished that they would place a clock on the court whereby the 25 second limitation would be enforced more uniformly and as soon as the sound goes off, a point would be automatically taken away from the server, and that’s the only way they will stop. The umpire also stated that would take the onus from the umpire policing the time violations. The commentatators were very vociferous last evening about Nadal’s time violation, including a challenge, where he walked over to see the ball mark and then challenged. According to them that’s not how it should work, but they made a joke of it, stating Nadal is a “patient man and he takes his time about everything.”

I hope this answers your question. I would also like to reiterate I am NOT a Nadal hater and I don’t make up stories. I base my statements on FACT, especially those made by commentators. I’m not one for nit-picking on those things, sometimes, I’ll cite them for a reason. I read one post after the Nadal v. Haas match that Tommy Haas was “shouting, (shouting a lot)”. To me that’s superfluous detail. The players are not mummies and should be allowed to vent. Is there a prerequisite that there should be absolute silence on the court? Then if we want absolute silence and robotic behavior, I would suggest we go to a WAKE, where it’s all gloom and doom and everyone moves around as though in a haze. My apology to all for the long explanation and comments.

August 2nd, 2008 at 5:59 pm

jane:

“I hadn’t even thought about that, but you’re right; I guess Roddick was number 6. Where is he now in the rankings, do you know? It’s a shame he’s been struggling with his shoulder/back now, because he always does well during the late American hard court season. Have you heard anything on his status / future tournaments?”

I believe Roddick will fall lower in the ranking because he has winner’s points to defend in Legg Mason, and at this point I don’t see that happening. (BTW he beat Dr. Ivo in the SFs in that tournament.). He’s scheduled to appear in San Jose, but I don’t expect him to do well there either. Realistically speaking, if he doesn’t make huge improvements with his back issues, he’ll be out of the top 10. He’s played sporadically from May until the present time, and is match deprived and injured. That being the case, I’d say this year could be a total wash out year for him.

What time is Djoko’s match scheduled to start? Thanks for the info on Murray’s match. Perhaps I’ll watch it even though I know the results. I’m happy for Murray and I think he could be in the top 4 if he continues on his winning streak.

Don’t know much about Davydenko. He’s like a machine — he moves around from tournament to tournament trying to suck up as much money as he can. I suppose tennis is his only world. Ferrer should lose some points also. I think he made the SFs at Cincy last year, but it won’t be enough to dethrone him. His No. 4 ranking is a one-off. I don’t think he has won even 10 titles or an AMS shield. Wonders never cease but daily increase. Enjoy Djoko’s match. I wish ESPN and the Tennis Channel would get together and show something live for a change. I’m frustrated by the scheduling. The live streams are good, but nothing beats sitting, feet up and some popcorn. :)

August 2nd, 2008 at 6:17 pm

Latent ….

I have a natural proclivity to all kinds of asinine drivel. You know my favorite adage?

“There is, but one truth. Power Corrupts and Absolute power corrupts absolutely. “

August 2nd, 2008 at 6:42 pm

OK, a few things.

1. The commentators for the match for the Tennis Channel feed were Jason Goodall and Doug Adler…not Robbie Koenig and Doug Adler as you stated.

2. I have watched the entire match from the point at which the dispute occurred and there is absolutely no comment by Goodall or Adler in regards to Nadal calling for the tournament referee.

3. You stated:

“I remember the commentators stating that it is apparent Nadal does not care to follow the rule because he again exceeded the 25 second time limitation.”

There are also no such comments by Goodall or Adler.

4. Regarding Roddick…for anybody that hasnt seen the Tirade in question…I have posted it on Youtube at the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ff6_UTPDO9s

All I can say about it is Roddick was not only caught in a lie but decided to throw a temper tantrum at the same time.

August 2nd, 2008 at 6:47 pm

Vulcan:

I know what I heard and I absolutely heard the commentators state Nadal threatened to call for the tournament referee. As a matter of fact, during a subsequent match in which Nadal played,the other commentators made mention of that incident Anyway, I don’t want to prolong this conversation and if it will bring peace and appease you, I’ll say, you’re right, I’m lying and I am a liar. Is that enough for you? Maybe there is someone else on this site who heard the commentators make that remark and would be willing to ascertain that my statement is true, if not, then I’m a liar. I hope this satisfies you. I thought this incident was over, but I suppose it’s not.

August 2nd, 2008 at 6:58 pm

Vulcan:

I supp;ose you’re going to deliberate that ESPN broadcast of the Nadal V. Lapenti match, wherein I mentioned Gilbert timed Nadal’s violation — taking 54 seconds to serve? If so, and you dispute my statement, then I’m a liar again — I’m what’s called a recidivist — a repeat offender.

August 2nd, 2008 at 7:04 pm

Kroll:

“There is, but one truth. Power Corrupts and Absolute power corrupts absolutely. “

Who’s been reading Macbeth? :)

August 2nd, 2008 at 7:11 pm

So far I am liking what I am seeing.
Rafa can come back into the match any time.

August 2nd, 2008 at 7:36 pm

Djokovic 5 Nadal 0 first set, Nadal serving. don’t know whats going on just following the live scores

August 2nd, 2008 at 7:37 pm

6:1 first set.

joker only 45% first serve but winning 25 of 36 points. Nadal only 11 total first set.

August 2nd, 2008 at 7:42 pm

Hey Shital – pretty good first set for Novak hey? He’s playing very well tonight. The cooler conditions of evening matches are more to his liking, I think. But he’s serving well, playing smart, and using the whole court as he often does.

In addition, Rafa might be a little road-weary after winning everything in sight since the beginning of the clay season.

But we’ll see how the rest of the match plays out. If anyone can make a strong comeback, we know who that is!

August 2nd, 2008 at 7:44 pm

Rafa starts the 2nd set strong. He is getting better with better serve, but Djoko does not look the same as he was in the 1st.

August 2nd, 2008 at 7:58 pm

To start the second set, the momentum has shifted; Rafa has changed his tactics and is playing sharper. Novak is still playing well but things are definitely getting tighter out there.

August 2nd, 2008 at 7:59 pm

I totally forgot about the match tonight, huh.

Von:
the shot clock in Basketball and the snap clock in Football have done wonders for those sports. Go Eagles. I find, not just calling out Nadal, but so much time is wasted in tennis to watch someone serve a ball, someone to volley it back, and for it to be hit out of bounds on the return….. then towel off, drinks, blah, blah…

August 2nd, 2008 at 8:08 pm

Hi Jane,

Djoko is playing just ok to hang in there in the 2nd set. He had a couple of opportunities with those odd balls, but he missed them. Plus, he seems to have gotten tightened, as a consequence missing some.
Definitely, Rafa has upped his level and playing much better in this set. Looks like it’s gonna go into the 3rd set.

August 2nd, 2008 at 8:10 pm

It has come down to who has stronger mental fortitude. Indisputably, Rafa has it, so he has the edge right now.

August 2nd, 2008 at 8:26 pm

My boy does it.
Congratulations to Djoko. I am so happy that he has partially reclaimed his territory.

Good play by Rafa in the 2nd set. Lose or win, he is the new Number 1.

August 2nd, 2008 at 8:43 pm

WHOO HOO Novak! Great match tonight.

Anyhow, Rafa needs a rest. He’s been winning everything for so long; that’s got to be exhausting. And besides, he’s already numero uno.

Murray vs. Djoko should be a lot of fun tomorrow; I’d love to see Novak get the North American MS sweep, but would also be happy to see Murray get his first MS shield.

August 2nd, 2008 at 8:43 pm

Jane and Sar,

Looks like our huckleberry is back. Hope he plays well tomorrow. Murray is in his best form and will be a more difficult opponent to deal with.

Von,
I am a little more than just happy.
Djoko played a great match. The last two games truly reflected what he is capable of. If he plays like that tomorrow, he has a chance.
You also go have a drink for me.

August 2nd, 2008 at 8:48 pm

jane & Shital:

Congratulations, your boy did it!!

Djoko played a very intelligent match tonight. He was composed mentally, served well and outplayed Nadal on the crucial points. I thought he was exceptionally courageous going down the line in the 12th game while trying to serve out the match. Usually, when he is about to close out a match he falters but not tonight, he held on and it was so good to see him remain calm. A very entertaining match indeed. Enjoy his win.

Tomorrow will be a toss up. Murray should be the fresher of the two, but maybe Djoko has enough reserved energy left in the tank. Only time will tell….

August 2nd, 2008 at 8:50 pm

Djoko played a great match it has nothing to do with Rafa being exhausted(coming from a Rafa)or having become no 1.
Djoko was screaming winners in that first set.
That was a great match he played.

He only needs to up his 1st serve %

August 2nd, 2008 at 8:51 pm

Mary:

“Von:
the shot clock in Basketball and the snap clock in Football have done wonders for those sports. Go Eagles. I find, not just calling out Nadal, but so much time is wasted in tennis to watch someone serve a ball, someone to volley it back, and for it to be hit out of bounds on the return….. then towel off, drinks, blah, blah…”

My sentiments as well. Tonight, and I hope everyone witnessed that altercation, Nadal had a go at the umpire again, for another time violation. I truthfully really don’t care what he does, it’s just that I feel if you’re going to point a finger at one player then make sure yours is without guilt. Other than that, don’t do it. It’s unfair.

Additionally, if we call one player a liar for arguing, then they’re all liars. When Nadal argues about a legitimate time violation, he’s in essence saying to the umpire, he’s not guilty. That’s lying, however, you look at it. He’s caught with his hand in the cookie jar, admit it and don’t do it again. I agree that there’s too much time wasted with the towelling and the other semantics. The top ranked players should show professionalism in all aspects of their game, not only being being politically correct in what they say, but in also what they do. I suppose I’ll be tarred and feathered now.

____________
Shital:

You have the drink for me. I need to be awake to watch the delayed broadcast of the matches. Hopefully, between ESPN and the Tennis Channel, I’ll see both. The computer screen takes away from my enjoyment of the game. I love my TV.

August 2nd, 2008 at 9:03 pm

Von, I for one am not here to tar and feather you…my previous comments were made in the interest of keeping the facts straight in my own mind. I did not say you were a liar but rather only said so about Roddick and the way he behaved in Australia.

Regarding tonights match…Djokovic showed why hes probably the best hard court player in the world…his ability to hit hard, flat, deep, and accurate consistently…the only guy that does that as well as him is Davydenko in my opinion.

Again, about Nadal and time violations…rarely if ever does he complain. In Toronto he complained because the umpired called him at break point down. Tonight he complained mainly I think because the umpire seemed to call him preemptively.

It would be interesting to see how many other players violate the rule without being called. The rule is 25 seconds from the time the ball is dead to the striking of the next ball…I would venture a guess that Djokovic used to break that rule with all of his ball bouncing.

August 2nd, 2008 at 9:20 pm

Also, the rule may need to be refined…clearly a shot spot challenge, change of racket, tying your shoes, having to retrieve a ball and winding up in the stands, etc would not be included in the time. For that reason its my understanding that the rule involves a judgement call by the umpire…so if they are going to implement a clock maybe the rule needs to be refined

August 2nd, 2008 at 9:24 pm

Finally theres a big difference in complaining and insulting and belittling the umpire which I find disgusting.

August 2nd, 2008 at 9:26 pm

WOW!

Congrats to all of you who dared to hope and believe. I admit I was sceptical. Finally, finally I saw Nole playing HIS tennis.

If I am not mistaken, he moved to #2 of Championship Race? He was only 12 points behind Fed before this tournament started.

August 2nd, 2008 at 9:51 pm

Jane and all Djoko fans,

congratulations on your guy’s win. He played a great match.

congratulations to Rafa, the new world number one. Have a well-deserved rest before the Olympics.

August 2nd, 2008 at 10:09 pm

Vulcan

***Finally theres a big difference in complaining and insulting and belittling the umpire which I find disgusting.***

excellent point!

August 2nd, 2008 at 10:20 pm

Vulcan:

Thanks for the explanation. If you don’t mind, I would like to leave this subject alone and move on. I didn’t mean that you specifically would tar and feather me. By now, I’m fully cognizant of who’s capable of what actions, but sadly, there are a few who are lavish on criticism and stingy on praise when it concerns another player save for their favorite. They thrive on this type of criticism. As you can see you already got an echo for the belittling of the umpire. It’s an irresistible topic. which doesn’t place the critics in a a position of great honor, but one that demonstrates a small and trivial mind set.

August 2nd, 2008 at 11:06 pm

It’s been a while since I last posted anything on here. Honestly there are a few good reasons and a few dumb ones.

1. I’m just lazy.
2. It’s too hard to talk about Federer’s downfall and Nadal’s uprising.
3. All I ever see from these comments nowadays is pointless bickering. Someone insults someone, someone insults someone else, then you guys spend most of the time explaining insults and stupid shit like that.

Back to the tennis. Djokovic played a helluva match. Great job. I say he’s the favorite at the US Open. Olympics idk. Hopefully he’ll do good enough for the rest of the year to maybe take the number 1 ranking from Nadal. Idk if it’s possible but I certainly hope so.

Nadal. God damn him. Unbeatable. Only Djokovic on hard courts can stop him. Everyone and anyone else, unbeatable. Completely deserves the number 1 ranking. But boy is this gonna be weird.

Federer sucks. I said it before and I’ll say it again. His whole game is hit a big serve, push the backhand, miss the forehand. He’s like Safin. Finding new ways to lose matches he should win. This just isn’t his year. Damn shame but whatever. Go Djokovic!!!

August 2nd, 2008 at 11:28 pm

sensationalsafin,

We really missed your flavor. Stop by more often, like in the good ol’ days.

August 2nd, 2008 at 11:35 pm

A couple of days ago, Andy Murray said he is the 4th best on hard court. “He added: “I think Federer and Nadal and Djokovic are still the big favorites going into all the top tournaments. But I’m in the pack behind them. I’m one of the best on this surface [hard], and I can push those guys when I play my best.”

I think he is even better, probably he ranks among the top three on hard right now.

August 2nd, 2008 at 11:52 pm

Well, Murray, as of now and probably until the end, has a huge edge over Federer on hardcourts. He’s a counter puncher who can be aggressive and he’s brilliant on the court. His first win over Federer was only a half-fluke because it was in straight sets. This year he won in 3 and despite the mono nonsense, it was completely legite. Nadal’s spin game is becoming a consistent factor on hardcourts which is why he’s one of the best. But I feel like Nadal needs a lot of momentum to win a hardcourt title (most of the time, not always). He won in Toronto and made the semis in Cincy because he’s a fireball blazing his way through the tour.

Djokovic is still the hardcourt king. Like I said since last year after the US Open series. He SHOULD win the US Open. I think the biggest upset of the tourny would be Djokovic losing, at any point, late or early.

I want Djokovic to win tomorrow to make sure everyone understands what I just explained. I’m sure there are plenty of people who disagree with me so he needs to win tomorrow. But I hope Murray takes it to 3 because I really like Murray and right now he is the 4th best player in the world. Nadal’s been number 1 since Wimbledon, whether the computer says it or not. Same with Murray. 4 since Wimbledon with or without the computer’s compliance.

Federer is floating in lala land right now. I thought he’d regroup but he’s just out of it. I want him to win the Olympics. He won’t win the US Open but the Olympics would be huge for him. I know they’re not big in tennis but to me they’re f*cking huge. Cmon Fed, just get one big title. Just one.

August 3rd, 2008 at 12:05 am

sensational safin,
I think the commentators said that Murray will be No 6 on Monday. so not so far from top 4 or 5.He might replace Ferrer. He is not playing his best yhis season. but Davyenko is too consistent. I think he will be top 4-5 for another year.

Also Karlovic might get into top 3. He earns 225 points from cincy and when you take the old points off, he has about 1200 points and might be ranke 17 or so ( based on the other guys of course). Roddick and Blake will both lose points and in two weeks they might be in the bottom of top 10 or out of it.

Wawrinka also might get out of top 10.

so major shake-up in the next couple of weeks.

Djoko played a great first set. he is very precise and very powerful. It was good for Rafa to see what awaits him if he meets Djoko in US Open. It gives him reason to improve.

Federer needs some match play and some wins. This was a hard year, but I am sure he will regroup and will fight back. He is still Federer.

August 3rd, 2008 at 12:25 am

correction:
**Also Karlovic might get into top 3***

maybe one day, but what I meant was:
***Also Karlovic might get into top 20***!

August 3rd, 2008 at 12:27 am

to clear any confusion:
this is what I “echo-ed”:

***theres a big difference in

complaining

and

insulting and belittling the umpire which I find disgusting.***

August 3rd, 2008 at 1:08 am

Does anyone know how the WTA ranking points work? what points the players get for each round? what about GSs? are the points similar to ATP?

August 3rd, 2008 at 1:17 am

sensationalsafin

Agree with you that Fed needs at least 1 big title. He said in several of his interviews that this year is frustrating because after all the hard work he made to surpass mono and be fit again he wasn’t paid off yet.

Even with him not having another spectacular year, it wouldn’t be fair if he end with no major or no gold.

My hopes are still attached to the pass. In last 4-5 years he always win at least one title in ever 4-5 tourneys, so he should win Olympics or US open since he last title (Halle) was 4 tourneys ago. But, with the chanhes this year so far, ever standard can be break! :)

August 3rd, 2008 at 2:22 am

Have mercy!

August 3rd, 2008 at 2:52 am

Soon you would be number 2!

August 3rd, 2008 at 2:58 am

If Federer loses early in the US Open his points will plummet drastically and given his early exits recently, this is quite possible.

Kinda glad that Nadal didn’t win today as the stress to maintain the streak is bad for MY blood pressure haha.

Have a funny feeling he will draw Djoko again in his half for the Open, so I’d rather him lose to Djoko now than at the Open. Nonetheless, I agree with most of you that ND will be the current favourite for the Open whatever the outcome of tomorrow’s final.

Murray is hot now but his knees are going to give sooner or later.

August 3rd, 2008 at 4:01 am

Really! It could be a three sets win for Nadal, if it wasn’t the rain interrupt. And Federer choked in the second set, leading 4-1. The rain saved him from embrassment. Otherwise, it would be another 3 sets win for Federer’s favourite tournament.

August 3rd, 2008 at 7:39 am

Like his early exit at the Italian Open. It helped him to have his best French Open yet this year.

August 3rd, 2008 at 7:43 am

Murray could be his nemesis, even at the Grand Slam. Murray might not wins a grand slam so soon! But for some reason, he would be beating Novak alot.

August 3rd, 2008 at 9:16 am

Von, if you think that recognizing and pointing out Roddick’s hypocrisy is “trivial” and “small minded” well I cant say much about that other than Im sure it wasnt trivial to the umpire who was the target of Roddick’s abuse…anyway..yes…I agree…there is nothing more to be said on this topic.

August 3rd, 2008 at 10:08 am

Is the Olympics draw out?

August 3rd, 2008 at 10:36 am

Daniel, in the last 4-5 years, Federer was winning 2 outta 3 tournaments. Last year when he went 4 tournaments without a title everyone was freaking out. So yeah, Federer’s very far from his old dominant self. But as a top 3 player he’s still gotta produce big results. It’s his duty.

August 3rd, 2008 at 10:55 am

Daniel,
I hope Fed has some good results in the Olympics . He has been in the finals of the last two GSs and the semifinal of the other one. His US Open performance all depends on his mindset. Maybe he cannot win the title, because he has almost no match play on hard courts ( last year he played the final in Montreal and won Cincy!)but I hope he does not exit very early.

I think it is still hard for him to put the FO and Wimbledon losses behind. Last year RAfa was in the same position. He had lost that epic match with Fed and I think it hauned him till the end of the year. Of course the losses at Toronto and Cincy and maybe the change in rankings, all coming within a month or so, are not very easy to absorb.

Still, I think US Open is the place that Federer wants to show that he is still alive. I still expect him to go very deep.

August 3rd, 2008 at 11:19 am

Even though all this hard loses, I still think the US Open will be the final measure for Fed’s year. He still has an 17 semi-final in Grand Slam in a row and had only lost to eventual champions since RG 2004. He is very hard to beat in best of 5.

The moment he start losing earlier in Slams will be the moment I will be really scared. So far it has been a bad year added with Nadal phenomenum year.

August 3rd, 2008 at 12:00 pm

I also am not particularly concerned about Federer. The US Open will be the true barometer.
Federer and Djokovic are alot closer on hard courts than Nadal and Djokovic…I dont think Nadals game matches up as well with the Djokers as he tends to hit the ball flatter and deeper which causes timing problems for Nadal…Federer’s ball has more spin and is typically more shallow. Federer can deal with Djokovics pace better than Nadal can so I think his game matches up better.

August 3rd, 2008 at 12:40 pm

One more thing…Ive said this before and ill say it again..players with two handed backhands have the upper hand against Nadal because they can deal with the high bouncing kick off of Nadals shots. Djokovic crushed numerous backhand winners off of high bouncing balls that would have been weak replies from the Federer backhand. Yes, I know, Youhzny has given Nadal trouble too but not as much as players like Djokovic, Tsonga, et al with two handers.

August 3rd, 2008 at 12:44 pm

Unfortunately, Djokovic’s win is useless in a feeble attempt to hinder Nadal’s ascent to the Number 1 spot. Now for a fact – Nadal will move up to the prestigious ranking in 2 weeks. This will end Federer’s 235 consecutive week streak – the end of an era and a great run. Anyways, back the actual match. Djokovic is a better hardcourt player than Nadal…no doubt. Djokovic has a solid forehand and backhand – and he is able to cope with Nadal’s tremendous top spin. I am certain, if Federer falls out of the number 1 running, Djokovic and Nadal will have a fantastic Number 1 vs. Number 2 fight. As for Federer, he should practice his heart out for the US Open – if he wins he will show his true soul and determination. Moreover, if he plays Nadal, he should try to bring Nadal up the net.

VISIT MY BLOG AT: talkaboutsport.blogspot.com

August 3rd, 2008 at 1:21 pm

Vulcan:

Believe me I tried to carefully choose my words in my last comment to you, and I had hoped you would have been able to read between the lines, however, that hasn’t happened. All I can say is stick around and in time, you’ll be able to see things in a brighter and bigger picture. You walked into a loaded gun and I was fool enough to take the bait. That’s about all I can say.

August 3rd, 2008 at 2:11 pm

So far Djoko-Murray have played 7 games, and Djoko is making a lot of forehand unforced errors (as well as backhand). He is nowhere near the level he played against Nadal. The match is tilting toward Murray. Murray has better a chance of winning his first MS.
If Djoko loses, which is likely, I will not go crazy like I did last time. I will accept the defeat and will express my joy for Murray’s victory (I like him, but not just as much I do Djoko).

August 3rd, 2008 at 3:59 pm

Jane,
Are you around?
The last post was for you. I am learning from you.

August 3rd, 2008 at 4:05 pm

Just for laughs I have been clocking Djokovic between points and the result was that 30-40 percent of the time he was a few seconds past the 25 second mark.

August 3rd, 2008 at 4:06 pm

Shital -

Yeah, I agree with everything in your earlier post; Murray has the edge. Djoko is making too many unforced errors and isn’t holding serve as easily as Murray. Plus, surprisingly, given the stats, he hasn’t done well at returning anything. Murray’s only at 53% first serves but Djoko hasn’t capitalized at all.

I too am rooting a bit more for Djoko of course, but because Murray has never had an MS title, I’ll be happy for him. I like both guys a lot.

Try not to be too disappointed Shital; the good thing is that Novak has returned to form – we saw it last night against Rafa. He just isn’t at his best today.

Besides which, there is two more sets!

August 3rd, 2008 at 4:29 pm

Vulcan – I think most players go over a bit (except the ones who speed up when things get tighy, like Agassi or Roddick). It’s kind of a moot point unless they’re really abusing it, imo. At least Djoko has cut back on the bouncing.

August 3rd, 2008 at 4:31 pm

Murray not only wins the 1st set but also on the way to win the match in straight sets, largely due to Djoko’s UEs. Djoko has no chance of turning it around if he continues to makes those errors (wide, long, what not). I don’t see any signs how he is gonna cut on those errors. They are so many and so chronic from the very beginning.

August 3rd, 2008 at 4:32 pm

Shital – Djoko had a later match yesterday too, whereas Andy’s was early, so Andy had a little bit more rest. No excuse, but it might be a factor.

August 3rd, 2008 at 4:33 pm

Even that little break Djoko just got in the 2nd set is not good enough to convince me that he is back into the match because his errors are uncharacteristically too many.

August 3rd, 2008 at 4:46 pm

I told you that he is utterly frustrating. With 2 double fault and 2 UEs, he lets Murray back right away.

August 3rd, 2008 at 4:51 pm

correction: break back

August 3rd, 2008 at 4:51 pm

True Shital – Murray just broke back. Djoko is not at his best today; I think facing Rafa was a big deal – he wanted to prove himself on hard courts against Rafa and break his losing streak to him, so probably this is a bit of a let down today.

At least, even with all his errors and lack of good returns, he’s still playing Murray tight – so that means at his best he can probably still beat him. But Djoko should study tapes of his last two matches with Murray to see how he’s changed his strategy and how Novak can in turn alter his.

This is the budding of another good rivalry – Rafa, Murray, Djoko – all so good.

August 3rd, 2008 at 4:55 pm

Jane, its precisely the fact that its a judgement call that Nadal has complained…because then it becomes not only an issue of if youre getting called but when. There has to be some well defined, transparent rule. Leaving it up to the umpires discretion is just not fair because it leaves room for abuse by the umpires…there must be some way to implement a fair system which does not rely on the discretion of the umpire.

August 3rd, 2008 at 5:05 pm

Congratulations to Murray !

August 3rd, 2008 at 5:09 pm

Vulcan – a clock perhaps? lol

Or, some kind of warning system. They get the warning, and then they lose points. I think this is how it works already, but a heads up from the ump would be fair.

But it varies right? Most players go over in key moments or after long points. I think the thing with Rafa is that he’s pretty much always over the time limit so when he gets called it seems arbitrary. Rafa just needs to work on shortening his routine between serves. If he goes over a few seconds here or there, who cares. But if he consistently goes over (more than half the time) that’s when it becomes an issue I suppose.

August 3rd, 2008 at 5:16 pm

For me, I don’t care so much how long they take between serves. I know it’s a rule but if it’s a good match I’d rather see players take the time they need than rush and play poorly.

August 3rd, 2008 at 5:17 pm

Murray choked real bad! He should have finished the match by now!

August 3rd, 2008 at 5:26 pm

Yeah but Jane its not as simple as a clock. There still has to be a judgement call by the umpire as to when to use the results of the clock…take 5-4 in the tiebreaker in tonights match…Djokovic was winded and took probably 35 or 40 seconds between points…should he have been called?

August 3rd, 2008 at 5:40 pm

Vulcan – so leave it to the umpire then; I agree it needs a human element, just as lines calls have both human and machine to check line calls. It’s an issue that doesn’t much matter to me – as I mentioned – so long as it’s a good match. It’s never really bothered me how long Rafa takes or how many times Novak bounces.

August 3rd, 2008 at 5:45 pm

The problem is your talking about plus or minus 5 seconds…there are a myriad of little things that could happen in between points that take 5 seconds…a player is winded, a bug lands on the court, a player drops the towel or ball, a player bounces a ball off of his foot and has to request another, and on and on.

August 3rd, 2008 at 5:46 pm

Congrats to Murray on his first MS shield.

Novak – back to the drawing board? Definitely he needs to have a look at his latest matches against Murray, but a very good job in getting it to two tiebreaks even not at his best.

2 great players, these two.

August 3rd, 2008 at 5:48 pm

I was really disappointed in Djokers body language in the tiebreaker…I mean comeon what the hell was he thinking…he fights to get there and then just pisses it away?

August 3rd, 2008 at 5:49 pm

Vulcan,

“The problem is your talking about plus or minus 5 seconds…”

Me? I am not talking about +/- 5 seconds. I agree with you, a bug could land on the court.

So what is your solution?

August 3rd, 2008 at 5:50 pm

He didn’t really “piss away” the tiebreak, it’s not like it was 7-1 or something. But yeah, he should’ve shown more gumption. He didn’t show enough all match, really.

August 3rd, 2008 at 5:51 pm

Hehe I was using “your” (sic) in the third person. Im not sure there is a solution as simple as just implementing a shot clock and using its results. Im still pondering how the umpires judgement could be eliminated from the equation

August 3rd, 2008 at 5:53 pm

In my mind he is the better player and just played a loose tiebreaker. He hit some amazing shots to save match points but he didnt even seem interested in trying to produce that kind of stuff when it counted…early on in the TB he was moping and acting as if he was down 5-0 and matchpoint…I dont get it.

August 3rd, 2008 at 5:56 pm

Woo Hoo! Good on Murray for finishing this match in straights. Now he needs to get these results consistently.

August 3rd, 2008 at 5:57 pm

Vulcan – yes, I still give the edge to Novak, I think, but he needs to stay focused; he’s been a little off in that regard lately. All credit to Murray, though, who’s had a tendency to go on “walk-about” mid-match in the past. That’s gone now. He’s a contender: no more “I coulda been a contender” for him.

And let me know when you solve the 25 sec problem eh? :-)

August 3rd, 2008 at 6:01 pm

Part of my disbelief is due to having seen the way he played in the first set last night…he was on fire…I dont think he played as well today but he was right there and I expected him to take that second set TB.

August 3rd, 2008 at 6:01 pm

Latent Talent, I suspect Murray’s in it for the long haul now. He’s got the right team, the right girl, and the right game. So it’s all good.

August 3rd, 2008 at 6:02 pm

Me too – I thought he’d push it to a third. In that first set last night he was zoning no doubt – no errors, hits the lines consistently and dictated. Not so with Murray today.

August 3rd, 2008 at 6:04 pm

Congrats to Murray and his fans on a very well played match!.

Jane & Shital:

Sorry about Djoko’s loss but look on the bright side, he made up most of the points he lost in Toronto, so it’s not all for naught.

First of all, the conditions were hot and humid — not Djoko’s type of weather. From the get go Murray seemed the fresher of the two, but they engaged in too many long rallies and Djoko made too many UE’s. Djoko was moving Murray from side to side trying to blow out his lungs, but he also got himself winded by so doing. Djoko was struggling on his serve games, off the ground and he couldn’t find the range on his forehand side. He played some sloppy tennis and his footwork was flat. He was very reliant on his first serve.

Murray controlled the match for the most part. He showed great anticipation of Djoko’s shots and his instinct around the net was superb. Murray is very good at improvisation as the match progresses, but there are times that he over thinks and then gets himself into a hole. Today, he was the better player of the two and very deserving of his first MS shield. Well done!!

August 3rd, 2008 at 6:09 pm

Thanks Von – yes, and I think Djoko can learn from these two latest matches with Murray, for going forward. Besides which, he’s back to his top form overall, as we saw with Rafa, so he’ll be a factor still throughout the end of the season. And finally, as you know, being a fan of Murray as well, I am happy to see him win his first bigger title – he seemed due for that.

There’s a palpable shift going on in tennis right now…

August 3rd, 2008 at 6:30 pm

Jane I wouldnt start chugging that changing of the guard elexir just yet…lest we forget who Roger Federer is and what he has accomplished.
If he doesnt make the semis of the US Open then I would say that yes things have changed.

August 3rd, 2008 at 6:38 pm

Well, Federer has all of the expectations lifted from his shoulders now. There was talk concerning what has he got left to achieve or for that huunger to return. For starters, he loves being No. 1 and that will be the motivation for him going forward now. That said, I’d say, barring any injuries/illness the other top ranked players are not in a position to let their guard down. Moreover, let’s not forget that the difference between the No. 1 and No. 2 ranking points is not a large one, and if Federer wins the USO and maybe Madrid, Paris and defend the TMC points, which is attainable, he’ll be right back in the mix. The top 3 as I’ve previously stated a while back, will eventually be a revolving door, similar to what it used to be back at the end of 2003 beginning 2004, before Fed totally dominated. The jury’s still out on what Fed will do, but only time will tell …..

August 3rd, 2008 at 6:51 pm

Vulcan,

I meant with regard to the top ten – lots of shifting, people dropping off, people moving up, etc.

As for Roger, we’ll see how the rest of the season goes, but he’s obviously still up there. We’ll see what the rest of the season holds; I agree.

August 3rd, 2008 at 6:53 pm

Opps repeating myself i see – anyhow, you get my drift.

August 3rd, 2008 at 6:55 pm

Federer Quit you Suck donkey ass!
Nadal Number 1 hell yer!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

August 4th, 2008 at 3:53 am

Nadal is no1. WOO-HOO!!!
=D
And for Fedex fans,
Boo – hoo and hoo again.
=|

August 5th, 2008 at 3:53 am