This isn’t the worst news for tennis fans yet…. but if he starts betting, drinking Budweiser, slapping Mirka around, eating steak, driving an SUV, grows a fat belly, talking about games in the locker room or post-match interviews, well then I’m jumping off the edge the world.

February 3rd, 2008 at 4:41 pm

Doesn’t Fed have an exhibition match with Sampras? Is it in MArch or this month?
Whatever reason brought him there, I think it is great for tennis to have some extra coverage. Maybe it is time for the fans of other sports to learn a bit about tennis too.

Red Carpet!
Since the Oscars and Golden Globe shows were cenceleed, maybe someone figured they might as well use the red carpet in superbowl!

February 3rd, 2008 at 4:50 pm

It’s Mirka! She likes American football, and Roger likes red carpet! lol Why not? Stranger things have happened.

February 3rd, 2008 at 5:20 pm

Great publicity for tennis! In fact, they were talking about tennis during the Dallas Mavs vs Detroit game too! Talking about Federer and Nadal. Tennis is moving on up in the world of coverage!!!! This is great news!

P.S. Roger has been in the US because he did a stint at the Nike headquarters earlier this week so maybe Nike wanted him to show up at the Super Bowl… Who knows… But I think it’s great!

February 3rd, 2008 at 5:32 pm

If you don’t appreciate ‘Roger Federer’ as all americans do, please just show nothing especially your ego ideas. I’d like to know Mr.
if you always are successful in your career and in everything in your life. If so, you’re not human, for Roger, he shows that he’s a human.

February 3rd, 2008 at 6:04 pm

The joker may have won the Ozzie Open but it’s the Fed Express that everyone wants to see.

If he’s been to see Nike then he’s almost certainly there under instruction. But if he hasn’t he’s there because he’s a smart guy and knows how to cream publicity. As long as he and Mirka don’t end up like Victoria and David Beckham living in a fantasy world then I don’t mind what they do so long as they promote tennis.

If you’re American and reading this and have never heard of the Beckhams (there’s no reason why you should have) then he’s a wonderfully gifted footballer (soccer player) and she’s a pop singer.

February 3rd, 2008 at 6:13 pm

And “pop singer” is probably at the generous end of descriptions one could apply to Victoria Beckham.

February 3rd, 2008 at 6:42 pm

I think tennis can be more popular if it is broadcasted on NAtional TV. I was very mad at ESPN for advertising the “freee??” ESPN 360 which available to no one in US ( I think only 20 million). Because of thet the AO TV was not available in US. TAlk about limiting the spectators. If ESPN can’t profit, no one should be able to watch.

Even more ridiculus was the reply to my e-mail to ESPN: “Thank you for contacting ESPN. For information regading ESPN360, please read these FAQs!”

That’s why even a moment of a tennis champion on TV should be cherished. Does not happen very often in the United States!Good on Fed!

I also wish they start showing some of the great ads involving the tennis players.

February 3rd, 2008 at 7:07 pm

For All Djokovic “fans” Von, Zola…

Novak will Win WIMBLEDON this year. Prepare your hankies you`re going to do some serious crying!!!!

Especially to Von

Roddick will NEVER Ever win anything major!!!! DEal with it!!!!!

February 3rd, 2008 at 7:40 pm

Veka,
If Djoko wins another grand Slam, he has my congratulations from now. I hope you do the same if Rafa or Fed win wimbledon and not Djoko.

Sean
Maybe we should reconsider the meaning of “interesting” and stop applauding erratic bahavior on court. We need better role models.

February 3rd, 2008 at 8:00 pm

I was watching Golf in Dubaii and was trying to pick out Fed from the crowd of spectators and guess what, he wasn’t there. His buddy, Tiger Woods won today. Now I know where Fed was.

“..he’s really into that whole fashion scene,..” He’s a Vogue guy also, so that explains his fashion sense.

Zola: “If ESPN can’t profit, no one should be able to watch.”

I complained to ESPN also about their coverage of the AO and the unavailability of ESPN360 in my area and I received the same “informative” reply. They’re stingy on the Tennis coverage and also with their replies. However,if you’re a Poker fan, it’s on all of the time.

“Doesn’t Fed have an exhibition match with Sampras? Is it in MArch or this month?”

It’s in mid-March in New York City at Madison Square Garden.

“If you’re American and reading this and have never heard of the Beckhams…”

Oh yes, we do know about the Beckhams. They’re our new Soccer Royal couple.

February 3rd, 2008 at 8:17 pm

Zola,

Absolutely…We have a deal…I`m just saying that the goal will be Wimbledon not French Open.I`ll remind you of it in July. I wont forget.

February 3rd, 2008 at 8:26 pm

Veka:

“Prepare your hankies you`re going to do some serious crying!!!!”

I bought a dozen hankies just for you and your friends and I’ll “Fedex” them to you tomorrow. Did you get it, “Fedex.”

Especially to Von

“Roddick will NEVER Ever win anything major!!!! DEal with it!!!!!”

Unlike you, Tennis is a very small part of my life. Roddick has 25 titles, so if he doesn’t win anything more, I’ve had my fill of watching him play great tennis. Your guy has 6 titles, you had better accept it that might be his quota. The United States has many sports heroes we have a choice. We’re not one dimensional. My question to you is can you handle your guy losing? And, do you guys ever stop? I think you need to change your drinking water, it’s contaminated with brain pollutants. Differnt names but same behavior. Be careful!

I sincerely feel that this is the only pleasure you can find, harassing people. Accept the fact that I have a choice and that choice gives me the liberty to choose which Tennis players I admire. Accept it and grow up.

February 3rd, 2008 at 8:36 pm

Zola: You now have a friend for life.

February 3rd, 2008 at 8:38 pm

Veka,
Deal! Let’s see how things will go . I usually don’t predict things so far behind. Who could have though that Fed could be the victim of a stomach bug or Monaco hit his ankle to a chair in the doubles final and default his final title. My first wish is for all the player to be at their best health. Then we’ll see how the games are coming.

Von,
That generic response from ESPN is priceless. I was kicking myself. I could be watching 6 courts for $25 bucks if it was not for that “dang” ESPN360 ! The worst is that they advertise it as if aliens on Mars can get it too. I am yet to see someone with access to ESPN360!

Did you see extensive interviews in the middle of matches? documenteries? Cahill and Fowler taking up the whole screen while players are in their secod set? no score! Just ridiculus! and I think once they showed the whole college football results…Maybe next year they show the hamburger eating contests during AO!

Thank God for live scoring and channelsurfing!

February 3rd, 2008 at 8:47 pm

Von,

It`s 8 not 6 and counting… Spring water!!! Basketball, Volleyball, waterpolo…You`re just full of haterite. Enough said!!!! You`re just too sad…

February 3rd, 2008 at 9:16 pm

Zola:

“Maybe next year they show the hamburger eating contests during AO!” “Thank God for live scoring and channelsurfing!”

Yes, I saw Fowler, Cahill and then the other 3 P. McEnroe, Drysdale and MaryJo. They showed more of the commentators and less of the AO, and then in the middle of a match when you think finally, I can see a match, they switch to the women’s match, or a piece of another men’s match. I don’t want to get started with ESPN, you know my other beef.

Fortunately I have the Tennis Channel. They showed the matches from the previous day beginning at 8:00 a.m., so it wasn’t too bad for me. Pete Sampras has an investment in the Tennis Channel. The Tennis Channel is availble with the sports package from the cable company, it used to cost $4.00 extra per month, now it’s $8.00 per month. I can get Golf, Figure Skating (which I have been watching from 4:30 pm. today) of course Poker and Football from here to ying yang.

What a sad accident for Juan Monaco, he damaged his ankle and Gonzalez won the Vina Del Mar. I am happy for Gonzo, his ranking went down from 7 to 23, because he had all of those points to defend at the AO. He’ll start climbing again, I hope. I like some of his game.

February 3rd, 2008 at 9:16 pm

Von,
honored to be your friend!

If I get tennis channel I will be watching tennis all day. I love watching a playing tennis.

Yeah, very sad for Monaco. I like Gonzo when he is in the Zone! He has great forehand. I aonder if Tsonga will be like him or will be more consistent. and where is Nalby? I hope his injury is better and I am hoping if he is in Dubai, he will be in Fed or Djoko’s quarter!

February 4th, 2008 at 12:02 am

Zola:

“Honored to be your friend!” Same here.

“If I get tennis channel I will be watching tennis all day. I love watching a playing tennis.”

It’s good to have it because I see a lot more tournaments, such as Davis Cup and Fed Cup. They are showing Fed Cup today and tomorrow. Thje Russians beat Israel, and the US v. Germany are tied 1-1. Theyh got rained out today, so they’ll play tomorrow. I don’t want to get my hopes up for the US because Davenport got beaten yesterday. We’ll see how it goes tomorrow.

I don’t know if I am weird or what, but I really don’t enjoy the women’s matches. I prefer to watch the men’s matches. How about you? Do you have a preference?

Yes, it would be good to see Nalby back in form. He is always a threat. When he played in Davis Cup in ’06 he was in the zone. Safin beat Acasuso in the 5th rubber. It was great to see an in form Safin. About Dubai, would be good to see him in the Fed’s half of the draw. :)

February 4th, 2008 at 12:17 am

Von,
I started watching a bit more of WTA since last year. I like these new girls. Pasck? ( I hope I am spelling right), Vaidosova, of course Justine ( although I disliked her a lot after she quit from AO final a couple years ago), Serena…The player I could not stand was Sharapova. But this AO she played very clever and powerful. Made me forget about her shrieks. Of course ANa Ivanovic is just gorgeous to watch. I would watch WTA if it is on TV, but won’t make any special effort. When it comes to ATP tours involving Rafa, it is a completely different story!

I am not following the Fed cup right now but read about Davenport’s defeat, but I think another player won , so there is a tie now. You never know, Davenport might win her other match. I still think US has a chance.

February 4th, 2008 at 1:11 am

hey.. what do u think of the Davis Cup tie between Russia and Serbia. I think n hope Djoker will get his a** kicked by Safin ;-)

February 4th, 2008 at 2:28 am

Hi!

All eight men’s and women’s semifinalists from the Australian Open are committed to play in the Pacific Life Open on March 10 to 23, 2008

Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic, fellow semifinalist and world No. 1 Roger Federer, finalist Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and defending champion Rafael Nadal will be among the 96 men in the main draw.

In last year’s men’s final, Nadal defeated Djokovic.

The finals appearance was the first big result for Djokovic. He built on his Pacific Life Open performance and reached the semifinals of the French Open and Wimbledon and then the U.S. Open finals.

On the women’s side, Australian Open champion Maria Sharapova headlines the field with defending champion Daniela Hantuchova and Serbian stars Ana Ivanovic and Jelena Jankovic.

c ya there !

February 4th, 2008 at 4:40 am

Tejuz Says:

hey.. what do u think of the Davis Cup tie between Russia and Serbia. I think n hope Djoker will get his a** kicked by Safin”

Why not ? Russians are ok, they did not bomb Serbian people with depleted uranium.But, unfortunately, your country did.

Foreign media have made much of Serbia’s war years in Serbia, especially the US lead NATO bombing of Belgrade, as the top stimulus for the rise in Serbian tennis.

You got it ?

U have been Serbed

February 4th, 2008 at 5:46 am

Tejuz:

“hey.. what do u think of the Davis Cup tie between Russia and Serbia. I think n hope Djoker will get his a** kicked by Safin..”

I am looking forward to seeing Safin again in Davis Cup. He always plays his “A” game in DC. He is a great ball stroker. Smooth strokes and a great serve. Will be interesting.

February 4th, 2008 at 7:30 am

So what if Roger went to the SuperBowl with his bud Gavin Rossdale? I hope they had a great time. What? Top athletes aren’t allowed to attend other sporting events? Gee…

HOPP ROGER!

February 4th, 2008 at 12:59 pm

Von: Unlike you, Tennis is a very small part of my life.

If this is true, can you then move on and let us discuss the tennis that plays significant part of our life!
You have probably the most postings on this site, reduce polution and move on!

February 4th, 2008 at 1:36 pm

Federer has really gone Hollywood hasn’t he? His head gets bigger every day, believing his own hype. It’s a shame how he’s become so greedy and conceited, corrupted by fame and money. I guess he’s not better than us after all.

February 4th, 2008 at 2:07 pm

Famewhore, what’s this?
“Federer has really gone Hollywood hasn’t he? His head gets bigger every day, believing his own hype. It’s a shame how he’s become so greedy and conceited, corrupted by fame and money. I guess he’s not better than us after all.”
Do you know him? I suppose you’ve judged by yourself!

February 4th, 2008 at 2:58 pm

Guys, I think we should allow Serbia to enjoy their success in Australia, only time will tell if Djokovic will go on to become a great champion so let’s wait and see if he can do it. Personally I think it unlikely that we will ever see skills and endurance from him in the way that we’ve seen Federer deliver them so consistently over the past few years. I do think however that if he is to emulate Federer’s success he will need to change his attitude from now on, there’s more to being a great champion than just playing great tennis and behaving like a clown.

I’m surprised at just how Serbian he has become when I recall it was not so long back that I seem to recall there was talk in the media of him allegedly considering applying for UK citizenship. One can never imagine Federer being anything other than Swiss, Roddick American or Murray Scottish so it must be somewhat worrying if it was the case that he considered a new nationality. Maybe he just wanted to ensure a bye into the second round at Wimbledon.

I’m British so unlike a lot of other countries we’re not that used to winning tennis tournaments although from time to time we have our moments thanks to players such as Murray, Henman and Rusedski (a fine British name). No, it’s true, we can’t strut our stuff like so many others do, we just have to content ourselves with the knowledge that we invented the game and have the best and most prestigious tournament in the World: Wimbledon.

By coincidence we have also invented just about every other major sport worth playing: ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL (soccer), RUGBY (gridiron without the armour); BOBSLEIGH; BADMINTON; BOXING to the modern code – Queensbury rules; BOWLS – made popular by Sir Francis Drake in 1588 before defeating the Spanish Armada; CANOEING – as a sport developed by John McGregor, a British barrister, in 1865; CURLING – the national sport of Scotland; DARTS; FIVES; GOLF; HOCKEY; HURLING; ICE SKATING – despite being known as a pastime in Denmark as early as 1134 the first ice skating club was formed in Edinburgh in 1742 and the World’s first artificaial ice skating rink was built in London in 1896; MOUNTAINEERING as a sport – mountains have been climbed ever since man could walk but it wasn’t until the Wetterhorn in Switzerland was climbed by John Wilkes that it became recognised as a sport in 1854; RACKETS (or Racquets); ROWING – developed as a sport by the English at the Leander Club in 1817; SKIING – even skiing is a British invention, as a mode of transport it had been around for cenruries but it was in the 19th century with the advancement in ski technology that the British developed it as a sport at the same time as inventing the package holiday; SQUASH; TABLE TENNIS; TEN PIN BOWLING – although perceived to have been developed from the German ten pin game to get round a ban in New York there are records of it having been played in Suffolk as early as the 16th Century; WATER POLO – developed in England in 1869; Water Skiing – althogh the USA claims it in 1922 and France in 1920 there are photographs in existence showing it being played in Scarborough, England, in 1914; WEIGHTLIFTING – first World Championship held in England on 28th March 1891; YACHTING – dates back to a race between King Charles II and his brother James, Duke of York on the Thames in 1661, there was a £100 wager (about $200) but I don’t know who won.

Sorry about all this, being English we tend not to show off too much but I guess it’s OK every now and again. You can understand why Djokovic may have thought about it.

Oh, I nearly forgot, I’ve a feeling we invented baseball as well only it was banned over here in the 17/18th century because it was attracting too much loutish behaviour resulting in civil unrest.

Enjoy the tennis and the rest of the wonderful sports we’ve given the World.

February 4th, 2008 at 3:04 pm

Big Dave,
I agree that we have to allow the Serbs enjoy Djoko’s wins.They have to allow for it themselves too. look at just this thread and see how many provocative comments are posted from those fans…

I just love the list of sports you say the British have invented! Well, who knows, maybe Andy Murray can go on top and make the British proud.The guy has the talent for sure.

February 4th, 2008 at 3:27 pm

Zola

Many thanks for your kind comment about British achievement. I know exactly where you’re coming from and, whilst it may not appear to be the case from my proud boast, humility is one of our better traits, especially in sport. We are taught that it as important to take part as it is to win and that the essence of sport is to be gracious in defeat and humble in victory. This doesn’t mean to say we’re a bunch of losers, how else could we have built the greatest empire since the Romans and be one of the richest countries in the World with one of the strongest economies? Given time this is something I hope that Serbian sports fans will learn along with the ability to accept well intentioned comment. We’ll never get anywhere if we’re just gratuitously disrespectful to the achievements of others. Having said all of this high minded stuff I must admit that Djokovic is a bit of a pain from time to time with his mannerisms – maybe he’ll read this blog and realize where he’s going wrong!

February 4th, 2008 at 3:52 pm

Big Dave…

***humility is one of our better traits, especially in sport. We are taught that it as important to take part as it is to win and that the essence of sport is to be gracious in defeat and humble in victory. ***

This sums up what most of us expect from athletes very nicely. well-said.

February 4th, 2008 at 4:08 pm

I don’t think it’s a big deal for u to write about, Sean. If u hate him, it’s fine, it’s up to u, but don’t write ridiculous things like that. Fedex can go everywhere he wants, it’s none your business, he did not need your permission to be there (is that right?)I can see u wrote it with a bad purpose, but for what? And who cares? You are nothing in this world, but he is. You got it? It’s not fair for you to judge people like that.Fedex always has his own reasons.

February 4th, 2008 at 4:15 pm

Federer’s domination is DONE. Make no mistake about it, he WILL, WILL win more grand slams (wimbledon most likely) through the rest of his career. But you will also see him lose more matches this year to the likes of Djokovic and Nadal. The rest will start to push him to more sets and make him work harder but those matches I think will go to Federer (sort of like Tipsarevic did). One more thing. For Big Dave, how excatly is Nole a clown? His court gimmicks and his impressions I find funny and refreshing. It’s a nice change. Yes, Djokovic DOES get a little too upset on the court but he’s still young and that’s expected and himself has admitted he has to change that. But Federer? Once he’s pushed to the limit you see his true colours. He HATES the replay system. Why? Cause he SUCKS at it. At Wimbledon against Nadal he actually requested to turn it off. WTH?!

February 4th, 2008 at 5:07 pm

Nemanja

That’s fine, if you find Djokovic funny just get on with it and enjoy him. I enjoyed his impressions when he first started doing them, I just find it irritating after a while, it’s a little like hearing the same old joke over and over again. There’s another side to it and perhaps you missed my point, it’s not that I necessarily have anything against his earlier behaviour, you’re right he’s young, it’s just that now he has won a major and become a champion of champions then he needs to behave as such. It’s one thing to mock other players on your way up, in my eyes it’s disrespectful when looking down on them. I’m approaching 60 so my best days were long ago and now I see things differently but, you could be right and I could be wrong. My little niggles are not worth worrying about in the overall scheme of things, it’s only a game when all is said and done: so says an old guy who still runs 35 miles a week and plays 6 hours of competitive singles a week and 2 hours of social doubles.

February 4th, 2008 at 5:50 pm

I agree with nemanja90 why you are insulting Djokovic, calling him a clown? He is only 20 years old and does not deserve this harsh words!

February 4th, 2008 at 5:51 pm

Big Dave:

“Oh, I nearly forgot, I’ve a feeling we invented baseball as well only it was banned over here in the 17/18th century because it was attracting too much loutish behaviour resulting in civil unrest.”

“Enjoy the tennis and the rest of the wonderful sports we’ve given the World.”

Absolutely. I was born British and moved to the USA at 19, and became an American Citizen. I have dual citizenship and still am faithful to my British roots. I am also thankful that I have been blessed to enjoy and appreciate the greatnesss of both countries.

You are absolutely correct about baseball, except that it did become more of a British girl’s school sport, viz., ROUNDERS, and it was modified by deleting most of the physical demands of BASEBALL. I think the British also invented BILLIARDS too, which is referred to as POOL in the USA

I’ve been crioticized for my comments about humilIty and proper decorum. Also, my comments about Tennis’ roots as a “gentleman’s” sport, hence, the reason why the players shake hands with each other and the Umpire as well, and the Royal box at Wimbledon.

Look at the great countries which were once under British rule, e.g., Canada, USA, Australia, and the former British Crown Colonies, they still maintain their British roots and frown upon crude behavior and mannerisms. The British are a genteel people, some feel they are fuddy-duddy, I call it grace and class, and I still appreciate the pomp and circumstance, and The Royal family.

You stated: “I’m surprised at just how Serbian he has become when I recall it was not so long back that I seem to recall there was talk in the media of him allegedly considering applying for UK citizenship.

That’s what I have read also, and the ESPN commentators at the ’06 Wimbledon tournament mentioned it.

I feel that the only reason he has become so “Serbian” hinges on the fact that he knows that’s the only place where he can obtain a huge celebration for his tennis achievements. They can have him. However, I questioned why is his residence in Monaco and not Serbia. Considering how Serbian he is, it would be only fitting that he should pay income taxes to that country.

February 4th, 2008 at 6:17 pm

U have been Serbed:

For your info, i am not an American.

February 4th, 2008 at 6:26 pm

Bob22 Says:

You stated: “Unlike you, Tennis is a very small part of my life.

“If this is true, can you then move on and let us discuss the tennis that plays significant part of our life!”

“You have probably the most postings on this site, reduce polution and move on!”

What can I say I am a pollutant, that’s why there are environmentalists such as yourself to kep me in line.

With respect to moving on, I wanted to do so about 10 days ago, however, there are some posters, e.g., the Serbian and Djokovic fans, who refuse to allow me to do so. They are abusive and indulge in harassment as a hobby. They have missed meaning of co-esistence and other people’s rights to their opinions. They do not talk about “tennis,” they talk about “Djokovic.” They interpret my remarks as being hateful. I never stated I hated him, those are their words. And when they back themselves into a corner and are lost for words, they resort to abuse, because they are “limited” in their vocabulary.

Igonirng them is a waste of time, they harass myself and two other posters, with their taunts and crude statements. Is there any doubt as to why their “hero” is so obnoxious, just look at his fans. like follows like and imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.

So, Bob 22, I’ll make a deal with you, if you can stop these people from harassing us,then I will stop posting to them. Your post to me speaks voluimes about your appreciation for such abuse.

You are free to post anything you want, but i am not going to answer you anymore, but don’t ask me to roll over and play dead.

I would suggest that you read their

February 4th, 2008 at 6:36 pm

Bob 22:

Excuse the error in last paragraph. Should read, “I would suggest that you read their posts before criticiaing me.”

February 4th, 2008 at 6:39 pm

Von, well said, I was watching a television chat show the other day and an Ozzy came on and said that one only has to look at all the countries that were once British and see how well they were doing to realize just what our heritage has bequeathed the rest of the world. Now that came from from an Australian so it has to be right. Talking of Australians they’re a nation that can whinge and whine but the difference between them and the Serbians on this site is that the Ozzies do it in jest (well most of the time) unless we dump them from the Rugby World Cup. Talking of Australia just look at the wealth of great tennis players they can muster, some of the greatest ever I would say along with the likes of those from other countries such as McEnroe, Borg, Lendell, Federer, Sampras et al.

Who was the greatest Australian tennis player ever? Rod Laver the two times Grand Slam winner? Ken Rosewall; Pat Cash; Yvonne Goolagong Cawley; Fred Stolle; John Newcombe; Tony Roach; Tod Woodbride; Mark Woodforde; Margaret Court-Smith; Pat Rafter; Mark Philipoussis; or Lleyton Hewitt? I think at sometime or other all of these players have either been world number ones or winners of major slams with perhaps the exception of Philipoussis.

When you think about it, Australia is a big country with a tiny population and for them to produce this many great players in one sport is some achievement not to mention all of the other sports they excel at. This is what a British heritage can achieve, remember, their queen is our queen as well. I doubt that they could match Federer though for sartorial elegance! I went to one of their biggest casinos on the Gold Coast and a guy came in and sat at the table next to me in shorts and a shirt that I wouldn’t even wear to cut my lawn in but, that’s Australia.

February 4th, 2008 at 8:25 pm

Big Dave (aka Sam):

“This is what a British heritage can achieve, remember, their queen is our queen as well.”

I still get goose bumps when I hear the British National Anthem, “God Save The Queen”, and my favourite, as was, Princess Di’s, “I Vow To Thee My Country”, that causes a lump in my throat even as I write this post. I know that I will see a post countering what I have written, that I am being “foolish” and am writing “BS”, about my “patriotism” but, be that as it may, there are some of us who have a genuine love and respect for our roots, and we don’t use it in an opportunistic manner to gain popularity. Also, we are grateful for being accepted into another country, and as a result of that acceptance, are blessed with a standard of living, that is comparable to, and can only be matched by other major countries in the world.

You stated: “Who was the greatest Australian tennis player ever? Rod Laver the two times Grand Slam winner?… “Pat Rafter; Mark Philipoussis; or Lleyton Hewitt…”

“When you think about it, Australia is a big country with a tiny population and for them to produce this many great players in one sport is some achievement not to mention all of the other sports they excel at.”

That statement speaks volumes, and it irritates me when the ESPN commentators expound about Serbia and thier accomplishments and forget the Aussies. The Aussies are so genunine in their love of Tennis, that they still fill up the arenas with a sell-out crowd, even though they presently do not have any great Tennis champions. Likewise the British at Wimbledon. They decry the behavior of their own ‘son of the soil’, Lleyton Hewitt, how much more aren’t they going to frown at a brash, arrogant, non-Aussie. As the saying goes, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” In essence, look before you leap, and in his case, before you speak. Further, there’s no excuse for bad manners.

Big Dave, the following is a joke which you as a Brit can appreciate, as follows, **A poorly educated man went into a British Pub, and the bartender asked him what would he like to order. The man stated: “I doesen’t, drinks, and I doesen’t smokes.” The bartender intrepreted this to mean, a dozen drinks and a dozen cigarettes, so he took 12 shot glasses of alcohol and 12 cigarettes, and left those on the counter.

Big Dave, thank you for your generous comments and for the opportunity to reminisce about our British roots. It is a breath of fresh air compared to the harassment and crude posts over the last 2 weeks. Like follows like.

To my fellow posters, you’re free to write any derogatory posts to me, however, please remember, that I have freedom of speech and the right to ignore what you say. Thank you.

February 4th, 2008 at 9:29 pm

Sean:

Speaking from a purely psychological point of view, I feel it was very therapeutic for Fed to attend the Super Bowl after suffering his heart breaking loss. It’s similar to when you fall off a horse, get right back on it. The same goes for Fed. He can’t go into seclusion and stay there forever. He needs to face a crowd at sometime. Hence, his appearance at the Super Bowl. What better way to start and make the statement: “I’m back, fancy duds, et al!”

February 4th, 2008 at 9:44 pm

as to the why:

isn’t Federer looking for a coach?
Isn’t Annaconne (spelling) from NY state? Wouldn’t he be there too?

who knows????

February 4th, 2008 at 9:58 pm

Big Dave says:
I’m surprised at just how Serbian he has become when I recall it was not so long back that I seem to recall there was talk in the media of him allegedly considering applying for UK citizenship.

This is just one of many lies that are running around Djokovic’s name. The truth is that he never applied for a British citizenship. Instead he rejected lucrative offers from the British authorities which consisted with him playing under their flag.
He was not the only Serbian player who was approached by the same authorities. Fortunately, they all rejected these offers, and hopefully this will bring an end to the stealing of young talents from an war distressed country.
Furthermore, the same country that had the guts to approach these athletes were the same people who manifested a dangerous environment for these athetes when they were in their youth, even vowing to sent Serbia back into the stone age. This was actually one of Wesley Clark’s main objectives – who was at the time a Nato commander. For the ones who are not familiar with the subject, yes, Britain was the country that sent B-52 bombers and ordered them to do carpet bombing of civilian targets in northern Serbia, where there was no conflict to begin with. Yes, that was a time when little Ivanovic and Djokovic, who were only children at the time, were struggling with playing in an olympic swimming pool instead of playing on a tennis court freely outside, under the blue sky, an any average child.

February 4th, 2008 at 10:07 pm

Von Says:

Excuse the error in last paragraph. Should read, “I would suggest that you read their posts before criticiaing me.”

I did read all posts and that is why I am speaking to you. You are showing pathological hate agains not just Djokivic and his family but agains all Serbs as a nation. Is it true that you are Albanian? If yes then, do what you do the best, sell the drugs, rape and steal.

February 4th, 2008 at 10:28 pm

Sean, you know everyone would be reporting on what Roger ate (if he’ll get another stomach virus, etc.) so he did the sensible thing and just dranked bottled water. Good for Fed! Nothing to report…

But on another forum, someone was mentioned that Roger looked like he had gained weight and looked out of shape in those clothes. Ha, it was just a cover. He probably had on 4 layers! According to the person in the box, Roger looked skinny. I’ve always said that take away his tennis clothes and he does look like a skinny kid. Same for Nadal for me. When he’s in regular clothes, he just looks … well… regular. Roger looks very slim. Sometimes too slim but I think he would make a great run-way model because he wears his clothes very good.

Anyway, I’m glad to see him out more and enjoying himself. These free moments will really come in handy later in the year when tournament after tournament comes up. He’s doing great with his schedule early in the year because it’s going to be a monster later in the year and we’ll look backc at this time and say he scheduled great when everyone else will be running on fumes!

February 4th, 2008 at 10:54 pm

Bob 22:

You stated: “Is it true that you are Albanian? If yes then, do what you do the best, sell the drugs, rape and steal.”

You stated you read all of the posts. You’re LYING. If you did, you would not ask me the idiotic, moronic, question about being “Albanian.” If you indeed read, ALL of the posts, on the other 2 threads, plus this one, you would have seen my post stating ThAT I AM AN AMERICAN CITIZEN. As a matter of fact, and, for the purpose of clarity, (I am forced to write everything so carefully, because I am dealing with nit-wits) I HAVE DUAL-CITIZENSHIP. BRITISH as well as AMERICAN. I stated that to your other MORONIC, IDIOTIC, fellow abusive posters, who have only found out just rcently, how to express themselves by using their “limited” vocabulary, as a means to convey their braggadocio statements with respect to their little “hero,” the newly-found 8th wonder of the world, in the form of Djokovic.

If, as you say, Albanians, sell drugs, rape and steal. I wouldn’t know. What I do know, is that you sir, lack the necessary, basic, comprehension and written skills to start a written confrontation with me. Further, if I were in your sad state of having difficulty in comprehending and expressing myself in English, I would find a Professor who has majored in English to teach me English grammar, and when I have perfected my English grammar skills, then and only then, would I begin an assault on an English-speaking person, so as not to embarass myself on a site, that is visited by some well-educated people. YOU ARE STATING TO EVERYONE ‘I AM AN IDIOT’.

I have two posts to another poster, who is British, one written at 6.17 pm, and the other at 9.29 pm, and after the first post of 6.17 pm. to Dave, I answered your post at 6:36 pm. In my first post to Dave, I mentioned that I HAVE DUAL-CITIZRNSHIP, and was born BRITISH.

How could you have read and understood my posts to mean I am Albanian. You are just looking for an argument, and trying to express your lack of comprehension by lying. My polite post to you was a waste of time. You did not understand anything I was saying.

As for your statement about “pathological hate.” What do you know of pathology? Do you know the difference between pathological and biological hate. One you acquire by means of a disease, the other you are born with. I would say you fall in the latter. YOU CANNOT HELP BUT HATE THE WORLD. IN YOUR LITTLE MIND THERE’S ONLY ONE COUNTRY, SERBIA.

I would suggest that you find someone to help you with the comprehension of this post. YOU ARE A PARASITE. YOU THRIVE ON HARASSING OTHER PEOPLE. FIND A HOBBY OTHER THAN HARASSMENT. If you can’t find a hobby, then just STIFLE.

February 4th, 2008 at 11:30 pm

Von:
Your hate is cultural, with high level of prejudice and racial paranoia.
Do you really believe if your first language is English that is giving you the right to shit everyone around? Do you believe that education is void if it is not achieved in England? Do you think that if you have dual citizenship (not CITIZRNSHIP) makes you superior to others? Do you know me; know my education and what I am doing, to call me a parasite. Your pathological hate towards Serbs is unbearable.
I asked you to move on, to save discussion for tennis only but without success.
I am not the only one who had issue with your attitude. You also indicated you do not care too much about tennis. Instead your main reason to stay, is to fight Djokovic fans and to insult them on national basis.
Why are you attacking Djokovic? There is only one explanation. He is a boy who came from Serbia and show different picture of Serbia to the world. For last decade Serbs were portrayed as violent and barbaric in order to justify commited atrocities against them. This is also why you are telling to me and others to shut up, get a English professor and learn to speak before we leave the cave. We are not supposed to be here. You want to continue to spit on Djokovic, and other Serbian tennis players, to show how they do not deserve to be celebrities.

February 5th, 2008 at 1:40 am

Umm…maybe Roger has never been to the Superbowl or even a football game and someone invited him to go. And so he decided to go. I used to go to school with some guys from countries where football in the American sense of the word does not exist, yet when the Superbowl came around they got pretty excited. Me, I have never watched a whole football game. I guess sometimes it’s just nice to see something for the sake of seeing it.

February 5th, 2008 at 1:57 am

***Djokovic’s mother said he was interested in obtaining British citizenship not because of any connection to the country, but because she and Djokovic wanted to secure training for his younger brothers and further Djokovic’s sponsorship opportunities. ***

http://www.tennis.com/features/hotshots/hotshots.aspx?id=64332

February 5th, 2008 at 1:58 am

Zola:

“Djokovic’s mother said he was interested in obtaining British citizenship not because of any connection to the country, but because she and Djokovic wanted to secure training for his younger brothers and further Djokovic’s sponsorship opportunities. ***”

It was for an opportunity to help them with free Tennis coaching and gain sponsorships. The British Lawn Tennis Association pays for free coaching for it’s athletes. The BLTA paid for Murray’s coaching. So Dave was right, and I heard nearly the same thing on ESPN. However, you can’t obtain the benefits without a connection to the country = Citizenship.

February 5th, 2008 at 3:37 am

Zola:

I don’t have a clue on which thread I should post, so I am doing it here. They threads are all messed up.

You asked about the Sampras/Fed Exho match. I saw the info on the Tennis Channel tonight. The match is set for March 10, 2008, at 7:30 p.m., to be shown on the Tennis Channel.

The Fed Cup tie, US v. Germany, the US is now up 2-1. I haven’t finished watching the tape but so far, Harkleroad is 1 set up on the German girl. If Harkleroad wins the other set, then the US will play in the semis against Russia.

February 5th, 2008 at 3:58 am

Von,
thanks for the info on Fed-Sampras match. Although it is an exhibition, I like to watch Sampras play. I should see if there will be an internet streaming.

I read the result of the Fed cup. But I am not going to say anything until you finish watching the tape.

Regarding the British citizenship I knew Dave was right because I remembered this from a couple of years ago. All I had to do was to “google” it!

February 5th, 2008 at 4:07 am

Zola:

“I read the result of the Fed cup. But I am not going to say anything until you finish watching the tape.”

So you are going to keep me in suspense. I am thinking about posting on another site. I can’t deal with this provacation and persecution any more. It is sick. I have gotten to the point where I am afraid to check the posts, and when I do it upsets me. What do you think?

February 5th, 2008 at 4:12 am

Zola:

“Regarding the British citizenship I knew Dave was right because I remembered this from a couple of years ago. All I had to do was to “google” it!”

Goes back to Dave’s statement, how patriotic are we?

February 5th, 2008 at 4:14 am

Von,
*** I am thinking about posting on another site. I can’t deal with this provacation and persecution any more. It is sick. I have gotten to the point where I am afraid to check the posts, and when I do it upsets me. What do you think?***

I really don’t care about those comments so it doesn’t effect me. I like Abe and Sean’s writings and like to state my opinion. But there are several good places that you can comment on and even read great tennis analysis from the posters.

February 5th, 2008 at 4:32 am

Zola:

“But there are several good places that you can comment on and even read great tennis analysis from the posters.”

When next I post I’ll ask you to give me the names of those sites. Thanks.

February 5th, 2008 at 6:07 am

Von and Zola, I think you have the right idea, let’s move on, all this animosity get’s us nowhere. Thanks for your comments and references to my posts they were very much appreciated and I enjoyed everyone’s comments very much, they tell us more than we initially think and where the problems lie. One thing the Serb’s cannot take away from the British and Americans is the right to freedom of speech and the opportunity to indulge in it, afterall between us we invented the Internet (US Department of Defence in 1969) and the Worldwide Web or WWW (Tim Berners-Lee an Englishman and then gave it to the World free of charge. At the time of inventing the WWW Tim Berners-Lee was working in Switzerland so just three countries have been responsible for producing the best means of communication and the best tennis player the World has ever experienced and all three are set to get better and better.

Sorry I missed your comments earlier but we’re in a different time zone to you and it was bedtime over here when you really got going.

I’m going to play tennis now and when I get back I think I’ll move on but as I say, let me know Von and Zola where you go, I’ll need some allies I’m sure.

Cheerio for now.

February 5th, 2008 at 10:36 am

Veka-
“Roddick will NEVER Ever win anything major!!!! DEal with it!!!!!”

Roddick has won a grand slam title, several masters shields and now the Davis cup. You deal with it.

February 5th, 2008 at 12:18 pm

Von, Big Dave,

About superiority of British or Americans, I think people don’t chose where they are born. So I rather judge people by their individual behavior rather than their place of birth . There are decent and innovative people everywhere in the world. It is just the matter of being able to utilize their talent rather than trying to survive. For that matter I don’t hold Angel or Bob , or even Djoko , a represantitive of Serbs!

I often comment on tennis.com. Both Peter Bodo and Steve Tignor write great articles on tennis and many people post there( hundreds of comments per thread!). One good thing is that they have moderators. The posts go up very quickly and without delay, but hateful posts get deleted and the posters are warned. So, for example Angel with so much hate against Albanians and Muslims and everyone else in the world, would have a hard time commenting there.
There is Sportingo.com, espn.com and certain player pages of course.

As I said before, I like this column too. I like the analyses by Sean and Abe and I really don’t care about some of the comments. So they really don’t bother me. and no need to say I love the comments by both you guys.

February 5th, 2008 at 12:20 pm

Thanks Sean.

February 5th, 2008 at 1:27 pm

Big Dave:

“I’m going to play tennis now and when I get back I think I’ll move on but as I say, let me know Von and Zola where you go, I’ll need some allies I’m sure.”

I have to check out a few sites and when I find the one I like I’ll let you know via this site. However, considering the volume of posts and the different threads the information could easily get lost.

It was uplifting to read your enlightening comments, a breath of fresh air so to speak, as compared to the harassment, provacative, aberrant and irritating comments from some posters, whose names are not worth mentioning. Cheerio, Dave.

Zola:

Thanks for the info. I enjoyed your comments also. Bye.

February 5th, 2008 at 5:24 pm

Sean, like Zola I’d just like to say thank you.

As far as I’d concerned Federer always turns out looking smart. I’ve bought quite a bit of his tennis gear from Nike (sad old bloke) and whilst I’d struggle to play anything like him it just makes me feel good. Fortunately I’m tall and slim which helps, I keep the weight down by running upwards of 5 miles most days and train in the gym with my wife who’s a fitness trainer.

Good news we won our game of doubles tonight: 6-4;6-3.

February 5th, 2008 at 5:26 pm

Von and Zola. Thank you both. I’ll look out for you.

February 5th, 2008 at 5:27 pm

Who is Roger Federer? :)

February 5th, 2008 at 5:36 pm

Fed at the Superbowl. I guess he couldn’t stand watching Tiger win when he didn’t…LOL! Here’s how I figure it. Elite athletes are like Stone Masons. It’s kind of like a cult. I figure the following giys hang oult all the time, but secretively:

Roger Federer
Thierry Henri (… or is Henry)
Tiger Woods

……maybe those stupid Gillette commercials are a clue into to something much bigger….

Tom Brady
Kobe Bryant (…someone has to be the bad boy)
& Alex Rodriguez (…someone has to be the jerk)

These guys hang out in closed door meetings trying to figure out how their either going to piss off the media or smooch the public to such an extent that NIKE volunteers to up its own endorsement deals. It’s an evil plot by elitists! And evil plot I say…. Can’t wait to hear the next story about Tiger, Fed and Brady playing a round at Augusta….

February 5th, 2008 at 5:51 pm

I AM TIRED OF DJOKOVIC.EVERYBODY ARE TALKING ABOUT HIM.I DONT LIKE HIM.HE IS TOO MUCH NOSY,BORING AND HE IS RIDICULOUS TAKEN HIS T SHIRT OFF.PLEASE DJOKO PUT THE T SHIRT IN BECAUSE U ARE SO UGLE .HIS CAREER IS A JOKE LIKE HIM AND SOON NO ONE WILL WAST TIME TALKING ABOUT THIS BEAST.LONG LIFE TO ROGER

February 5th, 2008 at 6:04 pm

Sean:

I’d like to say a big thank you to you for your very stimulating and scintillating articles. I enjoyed them immensely.

Sorry about the patriotic comments however, even though they appear to be braggadocio statements, are sometimes necessary to inform others that theirs is not the “only superior” country in the universe and that we’ve been there and done that, without the hoopla, tympany and fanfare. Fools rush in where wise men fear to trod.

They supposedly want to talk “Tennis”, let’s see how insightful and tennis oriented they are and what significant comments, they can contribute to these threads.

February 5th, 2008 at 6:15 pm

Von
Sean might censor me here, but I am going to take the risk. Why would you apologize? Those who could not take criticism of Djokovic’s behavior on court and started spitting hateful comments towards other nations , they should apologize.

I wish sean intervened earlier. Maybe talking about a country’s superiority has nothing to do with tennis, but writing hate comments has nothing to do with anything.

On Fed’s attending the superbowl, I am very glad to see a tennis champion there. I wish we had more tennis stars attending other evets . This is very good for tennis. As far as him drinking just water, my first reaction was “Stomach flu”, but then, it is great that he is watching what he is eating.

Anyway, Rotterdam is on the way. Fed is not going there, but Djoko and Rafa and Tsonga and Ferrer will. Then Perhaps Rafa and Djoko will be in different halves and I would love to see Tsonga in Djoko’s half and then a final with Rafa ! that will be great!

February 5th, 2008 at 6:36 pm

Zola:

“Sean might censor me here, but I am going to take the risk. Why would you apologize? Those who could not take criticism of Djokovic’s behavior on court and started spitting hateful comments towards other nations, they should apologize.”

I agree, but this began just after he won the AO semis, with our regular posters, and when he won the championship, then all hell broke loose.

I did not know that so many of the regular posters were his fans. I thought that most of them were Fed fans. I got blasted for saying anything about Fed before the AO tournament. I am sure you read those posters’ comments and the stand they took agaisnt posters who were non-Djok fans. I guess these people were just hiding in the woodwork. Consequently, his Serbian fans’ behavior was reinforced. United we stand.

“I wish sean intervened earlier. Maybe talking about a country’s superiority has nothing to do with tennis, but writing hate comments has nothing to do with anything.”

Dave’s comments were rather subtly related to tennis. His message conveyed that our countries have been there and done that, and we celebrated with class and humility. There was no need to expound to everyone the greatness of our tennis champions. Their records reflected their achievements. He also elaborated on Australia’s great champions. Thus, there should not be this bravado garbage from Djok. However,you cant talk sense to nonsense. These people are nonsensical. Just take a look at the posts subsequent to Sean’s comments. It still goes on.

“On Fed’s attending the superbowl, I am very glad to see a tennis champion there.”

It was good for a number of reasons, but mainly two important ones. He represented tennis, and he showed everyone that he is back and doing fine. It was a therapeutically needed action. The stomach virus/food poisoning, as I stated before, can keep you feeling sick for at least 3 weeks. It’s good to limit the intake of food. What a way to lose weight.

Well, the US won their Fed Cup tie and they next play Russia. That’s a tough semi-final. I am glad that you did not tell me. I was very surprised.

As for Rotterdam, I would love to see Tsonga in a rematch with the Djok, and I hope he is in his half of the draw. Tsonga should do better this time. Ferrer is out with a calf muscle injury. He is not going to represent Spain in Davis Cup this weekend. Hopefully, he’ll be fit to play in Rotterdam. I don’t know if Youzhny, Davidenko, or Safin will play in Rotterdam, because they are playing Davis cup too, against Serbia. I just would like to see Safin steam roll the Djok. It will be fun to watch. How many medical time-outs do you think he’ll request? I would say about 4.

I came across your post becuse I wanted to post a message to Ryan, but after seeing the other comments and your statement about my apology, It just occurred to me, why should I leave, I didn’t do anything wrong. All I did was to state my opinions, which we are all entitled to do, but I suppose I don’t have freedom of speech according to them. I’ll play it by ear. Thanks for the support!

February 5th, 2008 at 8:28 pm

Von,
Isn’t Harkleroad something? I remember her name from another tournament. I think maybe AO and I thought she playd well. Now seeing her winning the tie, makes me very happy. I like Davenport too. Because if the way she came back.

That’s why I didn’t tell you the result. I knew you would have wanted to finish watching the match.

I am glad for your decision to stay here. Don’t even repond to the “garbage” comments.

February 5th, 2008 at 9:06 pm

Zola:

“Isn’t Harkleroad something?” ****She was playing pretty good for a short period and then she just faded. I think she had a divorce. I think she was married to a Russian guy, Bogomolov, or close to that name. Now her boyfriend is her coach. Anyway, I’m happy that she’s on the Fed Cup team. I see MaryJo is making some changes already, since her appointment as coach. I don’t think she is too happy with Serena and Venus. From her comments on ESPN she feels that they are not committed enough to the sport. I don’t care who plays, as long as they win, but I do like both Davenport and Ashley.

No more answers to “garbage” comments. I was testing that one to see how many people are using different names to post. This is funny. Kids stuff.

February 5th, 2008 at 9:34 pm

Sean,

As a tennis fan first and also a football fan, I am thrilled to see Roger at the Superbowl. What better than seeing the best in tennis with the best in football? Almost a celestial event!

Your dismal reaction to such a fabulous news story is shocking!

Also it shows the eclectic taste of possibly the greatest tennis player ever. How often have we seen Sampras at world cup soccer events?

February 5th, 2008 at 9:37 pm

Roger’s fans really feel Djokovic coming and ruining Roger’s dominance. :) I can smell the tension. :)

February 6th, 2008 at 1:40 am

:-) Djokovic can just cause a mosquito bite on Roger’s dominance.. its A bit irritating.. nothing to be tense about ;-) ..

February 6th, 2008 at 2:12 am

Djok can try hard to play like roger but he cant do it.He doesnt have the racquet skills to pull it off.Only gasquet can play as great as roger.Djok can win as much as he wants but he cant play incredible mind boggling tennis.Its just plain consistency.

February 6th, 2008 at 3:16 am

Ryan:

How are you? Check out the info I posted to Tejuz.
I think it is on the Djokovic, Tsonga Add Intrigue” thread.

February 6th, 2008 at 3:46 am

Hehehehe. Where was Federer when he was young? :) Beating old/tired Sampras… Federer in his twenties… Young, strong… Trying hard to beat the best tennis player of all time, Sampras. Who was well in his thirties.
That small mosquito, Djokovic will really get into Federer’s head. :) I predict positive record against Federer this year. My bet is that is going to be 5:2 to Djokovic.

February 6th, 2008 at 10:50 am

For Ryan:
And that guy Richard Gasquet. I mean I have nothing against the guy, I wish him the best. Very nice guy, plays attractive tennis, has great potential, but to say that he has as much skill as Djokovic is non-sense. I know he demolished Djokovic in masters cup, but that’s about it. Anyway everybody ran through Djokovic in that tournament. Don’t want to excuse Djokovic, because he really played awful, and all credits for all of his opponents especially Richard, since he really seemed to beat Djokovic the easiest way. I love one handed backhand too… But Djokovic two-handed backhand is very effective, so why fix something that’s not broken. Since you like Roger’s style, you might say that Richard plays as attractive as Roger. That’s valid argument to me. But you are saying: “Only gasquet can play as great as roger.”
Well I don’t know how do you define “great”, but I must disagree with you on that one. Richard’s game is far from great. You need more than one semi-final in grand slams to be considered great and your tennis to be considered great. Everybody has their moments. Richard so far didn’t even have his “moment” You need to win some major tournament by age of 21, master series could do it, but he didn’t even win that.

But this is Roger’s thread, so no point talking about Djokovic or Richard… This just shows what kind of a selfish person he is. Has time to go to Super Bowl, you know publicity, and all that crap, but will not play for Swiss national team in Davis Cup… For that he doesn’t have time? :) And yea, I bet he is crazy about American football. Yeah right. I see people here posting what he ate, and drank. Really funny. How many times did he go to take a piss? :) He is so in love for American football that he doesn’t care who wins the final of AO Open, and he will not try to watch it… I bet he did watch it, and he will watch it to study both Djokovic and Tsonga… But anyway he had enough arrogance to say that he neither cares who wins, nor that he will watch it, nor that he will try to watch it. But nooooooooooooooooooooooo, Djokovic is arrogant, not Roger. Roger is great sportsman. Big after the loss, too. Yea right.
Djokovic is at least honest, and respects his opponents both after, and before the match, unlike Roger. “That’s what they always say” (Roger’s comment on Djokovic’s belief that he can beat him). He didn’t even respect his individuality, “they”. Good for Djokovic, he just increased Novak’s motivation to beat Roger every time they play. Now Roger has beat Novak, because Novak will not beat himself anymore.

February 6th, 2008 at 11:48 am

I am not a person for speculations because anything can happen in a certain day.but if Both Roger and Djoko are 100%, that will be a very fun match to watch.

I have no interest in defending Fed. But in all fairness, spending 4 hours in a superbowl match is way different to committing to a 3 day of best of 5 matches. Tennis players have a crazy schedule anyway and this year with the olympics, you can’t blame anyone for not attending the Davis cup matches.

There has been a long debate on changing the format of the Davis cup . This is crazy like this and inteferes with the indiidual schedules. I hope they make it every 2 or 4 years and have it in a two-weeks time like a grand slam, each time in a different host country. I bet that can be a very interesting event.

February 6th, 2008 at 12:18 pm

Actually I think Roger is just perfect. He tells so much nice things about other tennis players. Like about Blake he has nothing but praise..like they always have such great matches, he is such a greaaat player and it would be great to play him once again. No wonder he is looking forward to play the guy since he lost only a set in some ten matches. And I remember last Wimbledon when he deffended the organiser for refusing to give Nadal, Djokovic and Gasquet a day off. He said, and he was quite right to say, It`s just a tradition. It happened that those three other semi finalists happened to get injured in the semis, but hey It`s just tradition. Though he himself slammed the organisers of the French Open for scheduling his match too late which had it gone to more than three sets would have to be continued the next day. Yep, a nice guy and you guys here have such a poor memory…

February 6th, 2008 at 3:35 pm

Well said Lilly. I also go along with Von and Zola’s most recent comments.

One or two people have commented on Fed’s late arrival when compared with Djokovic who has hit the jackpot a few year’s earlier. It seems to me that it takes time to acquire the phenominal skills that Federer has when in comparison Djokovic’s greatest asset is the depth of his returns and consistency (and a good serve) all of which can be grooved in.

It’s going to be interesting to see Federer work out how to beat him and it may well end up being 5-2 to Djoko as Branimir suggests but beat him Federer will. I suspect Fed will beat him in majors as well. Perhaps Wimbledon and The US. I expect the French to be Nadal v Fedederer, Raffa’s not going to fall out of the frame as quickly as some might expect even if he has a raft of points to defend.

Tsonga could be a danger guy on grass, remember Queens and Wimbledon last year! He might even play Nottingham which would be good for me as it’s quite close to here. I just hope the groundsmen don’t slow the grass down to get the clay courters to enter. The fun of grass is the speed and serve/volleying.

February 6th, 2008 at 4:11 pm

Sorry, “phenomenal”, English idiot can’t even spell in his own language.

February 6th, 2008 at 4:13 pm

Branimir:
“I predict positive record against Federer this year. My bet is that is going to be 5:2 to Djokovic.”

he he he …. i doubt Djoker will reach 7 semi finals this year to actually get to that record. I’ll be shocked if he wins one more match against Fed (or even Nadal) this year ;-) ..

February 6th, 2008 at 6:28 pm

Big Dave (aka Sam):

I know that I promised to let you know when I move on and to which site, I decided not to do so, and I am staying here. I don’t feel that we did anything wrong, so why should we change. Zola convinced me. So my friend, I would like to see your comments posted here also. In essence, we shall overcome these sick taunts and provocation. Please stay your comments add some life to these threads. United we stand.

February 6th, 2008 at 7:05 pm

Tejuz, you will be shocked, you will be shocked.

February 6th, 2008 at 7:09 pm

I created a monster asking Kash to list the keys for the smile face. I thought the smile meant you were saying something nice about a player, not if you’re being rude, mean and sarcastic.

February 6th, 2008 at 7:14 pm

Branimir:
“Tejuz, you will be shocked, you will be shocked.”

Oh, u mean to say i will be shocked only twice.. probabaly one wins each against Fed and Nadal at small tournaments like Rotterdam or Tokyo etc. Not bad really for a World No 3.

February 6th, 2008 at 7:33 pm

I think the mistakes made by some players is not an excuse for idiotic bahavior by the others. Every individual is responsible for what they are doing.

I also think the ability to bear pressure is one of the virtues of the top athletes. Nervousness and taunting the crowd, needing help from others to stay motivated, are not really good signs.

The breakthrough year is easy. The players climb through the stairs easily . No points to defend. The real test comes when they are under the pressure of defending points and when they are under the spotlight. What is amazing about Rafa and Fed, is that they were able to bear that pressure year after year for 3-4 years. RAfa started this journey when he was 18. we saw what happened in Shanghai and I am really curious to what happens this year.

Federer is getting more relaxed. No streaks to protect and no expectations anymore. Everyone expects him to lose now that he is older. RAfa the same. Rafa is the same. He has established himself and peopel know what to expecy from him on hard and clay. Now the newcomer has to take all the pressure. Let’s see what happens. I won’t discount Fed so easily. Maybe in 5 years.

February 6th, 2008 at 7:42 pm

Fed arrived late at 21 yrs(i.e. he won his first GS at 21) but he beat Sampras when he was 19 @ Sampras’s own home ground when both played a great match. Nadal arrived at 19(he beat Fed when he was 17 in Miami and has beaten him consistently). Hewitt and Roddick arrived at 20, but havent been the force that we all thought they would be. Arriving at 20 is not a big deal. Many have done that in the past and very few have gone on to acheive greater heights.

February 6th, 2008 at 7:52 pm

yeah .. thats true Zola..

the fact that Djoker got beaten in all 3 matches at Shanghai and was the last in the 8-man field… says a lot about his fitness and endurance. Au Open was just his 1st tournament of the year, lets see how he keeps it up throughout the year. Being a No 3, u dont get beaten 4 times in a row…. TWICE ;-)

February 6th, 2008 at 7:57 pm

Why are you still obssessing with Djokovic??? You are just deceiving yourselves. He is only going to get better and that is a good news for everyone who love this sport to have one more champion… And for me he is such a great guy…and considering that glare at the umpire it just showed his mental fortitude. Imagine what would Roddick do in that situation to receive a violation at such a crucial time. He would probably sream at the umpire and lose his focus. Not Nole he got on with the business,now that is a real champion. That is what makes a difference!

February 6th, 2008 at 8:33 pm

Lilly,
we are done with Djoko. This thread is about Federer. But just for the very last time: the glare at umpire after a violation is not mental fortitude to me. It is disrespect to the umpire and to his opponent who went to the umpire 3 times about Djoko’s time violation!

February 6th, 2008 at 8:47 pm

“he he he”. I thought the TV show “Hee Haw” went off the air. I was wrong. It moved to this site and it’s been here 24/7. Rowan and Martin should sue for rights infringement.

Lilly stated: “Why are you still obssessing with Djokovic??? You are just deceiving yourselves.”

We would all love to stop posting about Djokovic, unfortunately, we have some irritating posters who are like flies, and they swarm, and swarm, and swarm. It’s useless ignoring them, they won’t go away. Does anyone have fly swatter, or some insect repellant?

The theme of this thread concerns “Federer at the Super Bowl”, unfortunately, some of the Djokovic fans have turned this thread into a Q & A test and a mud slinging contest, taunting, questioning us about our dislike for Djokovic, and provoking us. They are omnipresent. They follow some posters from thread to thread, disregarding the subject matter. And the winnwer …..is….. .

A poster stated: “But this is Roger’s thread, so no point talking about Djokovic or Richard… This just shows what kind of a selfish person he is. Has time to go to Super Bowl, you know publicity, and all that crap, but will not play for Swiss national team in Davis Cup.”

Talk about obsession and going around in circles. Well, we’ve got it.

Now, I am not a Fed fan, but I am fair. There are times I blast him when I don’t like a comment or action that I think is in poor taste, or some of his displays of arrogance. However, this statement about going to the Super Bowl and not playing in Davis Cup, what is the connection? Even if he had elected to play Davis Cup, would’nt this be an inappropriate time to do so? He was SICK. It’s easier to sit and watch for 5 hours, than to compete for 3 days, plus practicing for a week. The Swiss DC team lost in the playoffs. They are not competing for DC. They are out of contention.

Lilly stated: “Imagine what would Roddick do in that situation to receive a violation at such a crucial time. He would probably sream (sic) at the umpire and lose his focus …”

Now, I am a Roddick fan. Yes, Andy does get carried away when he gets a bad call, and he did yell out to a few kids at the AO, because their loudness bothered him at a point in the match when he was feeling pressured. However, he does not attack a crowd of 15,000, wagging his finger, and shaking his racquet at them. His parents do not sit in the PlayerssBox, and pick a fight with the other player’s fans. Also, he does not indulge in making “bravado” statements to the press when he wins, viz., “I AM PROUD OF MYSELF HOW I PLAYED.” Further, Andy does not make derogatory remarks about any player.

On the reverse side, Andy is charismatic, generous (he started his own foundation for children when he was 18) and funny (and I don’t mean doing stupid impersonaions in public, repeatedly about one of, or several of his peers), he has been a rock on the US Davis Cup team for 5 years, and he is, oh, so handsome. (Beautiful people can pull off some bad stunts more than the not so beautiful, and they are overlooked.) That’s the big difference in your comparison between A-Rod and Djok.

Consequently, dear Lilly, please read before you speak, bearing in mind at the same time, the subject matter of this thread, and the manner in which we are provoked, aberrrated and persecuted concerning our opinions and comments.

Remember, Lilly, that this is the United States, and we are accorded the FREEDOM OF SPEECH. Also, we are entitled to our opinions, the same as you are, but criticizing us unfairly is wrong.

This stupid persecution began when we stated, our reasons why we do not like Djokovic, however, his fans refused to accept that we are entitled to our choices and opinions, and began an onlsaught of abuse and provocation. We have been given citizenship of countries we have never lived in, religions we do not practice, and called names that are applicable to the people who state them. Djokovic has been forced down our throats, however, IT IS AN EXERCISE IN FUTILITY, because we are standing strong in our decisions, and that is, WE DO NOT LIKE DJOKOVIC, his persona, his tennis, nor his impersonifications. HE IS A PERSONA NON GRATA! You can have him, we don’t want him.

February 6th, 2008 at 10:22 pm

we are talking about a tournament which just preceded Aus Open as far a Djoker is concerned. Before he won AU Open 2008, he lost 4 consecutive matches at the end of 2007. You cant get better with just one tournament.. can you?? if so.. then Tsonga should be the No 2 right now.

February 6th, 2008 at 10:24 pm

Hi Von,

You should have a look at this article at the ATP website, for while it’s about Fed’s spot at the top for the last 4 years, it also clearly illustrates how much Roddick has achieved, and how much more he probably could have achieved were it not for Fed’s utter dominance (which is one of the reasons I hope Fed’s dominance isn’t so all-encompassing this year and in the future; I want some of the other players I like to win major titles like Djokovic has). I’d love to see Andy, especially, win another slam, Wimbledon maybe, because he’s a great guy and hardworking.

Anyhow, the article made me think of you! Cheers,

http://www.atptennis.com/1/en/2008news/federer_fouryears.asp

February 6th, 2008 at 10:39 pm

Hi Jane: Nice to hear from you. I guess you were hibernating. :)

“You should have a look at this article at the ATP website, for while it’s about Fed’s spot at the top for the last 4 years, it also clearly illustrates how much Roddick has achieved, and how much more he probably could have achieved were it not for Fed’s utter dominance…”

I agree with you 100 per cent. Yes, had it not been for Fed’s dominance, Andy could have easily won about 8 slams. 15-1, 15 times he has been stopped, 3 finals, (2 Wimbledon, 1 US Open) at least 4 semis, and a couple of quarters.

We butt heads about Djok, but I am aware and I too, would like to see Andy win some more slams. Andy is not an “under-achiever”, as some say, “orap”, as others have stated, but his spirit, like several of the others, is broken.

Fed’s dominance will start to wane, unfortunately, as has been stated by several analysts, Andy has the misfortune of having come up at the same time as Fed, that narrows Andy’s chances of cashing in on Fed’s non-dominance. However, Andy is a very strong athlete and a fighter, and he most probably will be able to hang with the younger guys. He has a better H2H against some of them. I believe Andy will win ore or two slams before his career has ended.

Also, Rafa, could probably win Wimbledon in the future. He came so close last year and was inconsolable after the match. I’d like to see Rafa make some moves at Wimby. It’s one of his goals.

Thanks for thinking about me and hope to see more more posts from you.

February 6th, 2008 at 10:58 pm

Tejuz;

“Tejuz, you will be shocked, you will be shocked.”

“Oh, u mean to say i will be shocked only twice..”

Tejuz, forgive me but I can’t help laughing. My family thinks I have gone off the deep end, because I am just sitting here laughing.

You had better stop pushing your finger in the electirc bulb socket, or else, you will be shocked, twice.

You have found yourself a new friend. That’s great! You keep him, I don’t want him.

February 6th, 2008 at 11:06 pm

Jane:

“Federer and Roddick have finished in the Top 10 the last six years, the longest current streak among active players.”

How can anyone looking at these stats say Andy is an underachiever, or crap. It is mind-boggling. It takes stint, hardwork and a fighter to finish in the Top 10 for 6 years. Some people feel only the Top 3 matters, sorry, it’s the Top 10, always has, and I guess, always will be. That’s why they post the Top 10 athletes. Now, the commentators have their own opinions. Some say Top 10, some say Top 8, Top 5, and Top 3. They need to get together and compare notes. It is confusing and irritating.

However, only time will tell.

February 6th, 2008 at 11:25 pm

Von,
“I guess you were hibernating.”
Hiding more like – hoping the hotbed would’ve died down by now. But I am glad for the lull in tennis (Davis Cup notwithstanding) as I need to catch up on some work!

“Also, Rafa, could probably win Wimbledon in the future. He came so close last year and was inconsolable after the match. I’d like to see Rafa make some moves at Wimby. It’s one of his goals.”

Me too – I like Rafa for his undying efforts on the court. He deserves some time at number 1 as well.

February 6th, 2008 at 11:26 pm

“How can anyone looking at these stats say Andy is an underachiever, or crap. It is mind-boggling. It takes stint, hardwork and a fighter to finish in the Top 10 for 6 years.”

Exactly – I know am “preaching to the converted” by pointing out to this article to you, but clearly Andy has shown he’s much more than a “serve” or whatever to more than just his fans. As you say, if it weren’t for Roger, Andy would have a couple more slams, Rafa would likely have another, Safin or Baggy, and who knows who else! But the fact that Andy’s been in that top ten for so long says something about his abilities – as well as his heart.

February 6th, 2008 at 11:30 pm

Jane, Zola:

Am I the only one that has found this dialogue between Tejuz and his pen pall amusing? I can’t stop laughing. I think it’s hilarious, these one-liners.

February 6th, 2008 at 11:31 pm

Von:
“You had better stop pushing your finger in the electirc bulb socket, or else, you will be shocked, twice.
You have found yourself a new friend. That’s great! You keep him, I don’t want him.”

it sure is amusing.. i couldnt stop laughling myself when i read those posts again. Am not so keen on having a pen-pal though. Just thought i would reply Branimir’s posts back in the same manner in which they were posted .. with lots of smilies…and a lil bit of humour.

February 7th, 2008 at 2:41 am

Von, Jane:
“Me too – I like Rafa for his undying efforts on the court. He deserves some time at number 1 as well.”

Yah.. me being a Fed fan.. wouldnt really mind Rafa becoming No 1…he deserves it tons more than Djoker for his efforts in last 3 years.

February 7th, 2008 at 2:43 am

Tejuz:

‘Just thought i would reply Branimir’s posts back in the same manner in which they were posted .. with lots of smilies…and a lil bit of humour.”

Good, for you. I could not stop laughing, even as I answer your post. I suppose a sense of humor is better than my way. I have a temper. I hold stuff in, but when I let go, watch out. After that I am OK until the next time.

You’ll be shocked twice, only twice!

February 7th, 2008 at 3:10 am

Tejuz & Jane:

“Me too – I like Rafa for his undying efforts on the court. He deserves some time at number 1 as well.”

“Yah.. me being a Fed fan.. wouldnt really mind Rafa becoming No 1…he deserves it tons more than Djoker for his efforts in last 3 years.”

I hope he gets it even for a few months. It’s nice to say you were No. 1 at some point. Those guys, Roddick and Ferrero were both No. 1 between 03-04. I think that is what keeps them going. They know what it feels like and are working toward it. It’s tough.

February 7th, 2008 at 3:24 am

Zola,
Lilly,
we are done with Djoko. This thread is about Federer. But just for the very last time: the glare at umpire after a violation is not mental fortitude to me. It is disrespect to the umpire and to his opponent who went to the umpire 3 times about Djoko’s time violation!

You have mixed up two matches. the call came on deuce when Novak was serving to be two sets up. That was not the time for a call like that. That call could have changed the outcome. as in other in basketball you would never receive a 5sec violation in the clutch. that would mean that the referee has influenced the game. For me that call was malicious coming at this crucial time and that look meant I can`t be rattled I am going to win this.Djokovic said it himself that he didn`t object the warning but the time when it come. Why has`t he been warned before? And when it comes to Tsonga match the umpire wouldn`t react because Djokovic was within time limit. Don`t you think that an umire of that calibre didn`t know what he was doing and was frightened of a 20 year old kid.

February 7th, 2008 at 6:18 am

Tejuz:
“Yah.. me being a Fed fan.. wouldnt really mind Rafa becoming No 1…he deserves it tons more than Djoker for his efforts in last 3 years.”

The only thing Rafa, see my big bicep, deserved is to be closely checked for illigal substances. Look at the guy. He doesn’t even look like tennis player. His body is going to break sooner or later.
I was always wondering, is it underwear his picking from his ass, or needles. Haha.

February 7th, 2008 at 11:12 am

Lilly,
I understand what you are saying. But Djoko brought that crucial moment to himself by taking too much time. If it is stressful for him to have a warning, it is also stressful for his opponent not to know why his opponent is not serving when he is supposed to. Some players are not bothered by that. Moya said he didn’t care. But Tsonga did and the umpire should have given thew warning to Djoko before. Maybe then Djoko would have taken him seriously.

February 7th, 2008 at 2:38 pm

Again, sor of like you pass a red light to go pick up your child from the school and you get a ticket! You can’t blame the officer for what you did.
Similarly, we can’t blame the umpire for something Djoko did . He over exteded his time and frustrated his opponent. If that moment was crucial, then he shouldn’t have done it!

February 7th, 2008 at 2:41 pm

You are Rafa fan,I`m guessing… and how much time before his serves does he take? I`m just saying he focused and directed his energy in his serving and he served a good serve and an ace…that`s it…I have the last word ;)))

February 7th, 2008 at 3:24 pm

Lilly,
It’s OK. Whatever I say you want to justify it by saying Roger said this or Rafa did that etc…If Rafa takes time and he gets a warning, then I have no peoblem with that. I guess in your opinion whatever Djoko does is for good reason and I don’t even attempt to change your mind. Maybe what he does appeals to you and those are the things you like to see in a human being. I don’t.I am just giving my own view.

February 7th, 2008 at 4:06 pm

Hey Von how u doin? Somebody has to give a lotta credit you tejuz,zola for posting comments in this blog all day long man….wonder where’s grendel.

To Branimir:

Infact I personally think richard gasquet is the most talented player among the young guns right now.He is someone who can play at stratospheric levels beyond anybody’s reach but he cant keep it up for long in a match.The way he played against andy roddick in wimbledon was simply phenomenal.
The toughest thing in tennis is to play incredible tennis and win and to keep playing that way match after match.This is where gasquet fails and roger wins.But lets hope he can translate his talent to winning matches soon.

But again you’re saying that talent is directly proportional to winning matches.If thats the case then djok is more talented.Winning matches is also about how badly the player wants to win and how he fights for every point.I’ve felt that berdych,gasquet etc often give it up when the going gets tough.In fact berdych had 2 set points against fed in that 2nd set and he couldnt convert.The same thing happened in the davis cup match a while back.As much as I dont like hard hitters I gotta admit djok played like a champ in that 3rd set.I mean fed had his chances even in the 1st set but he couldn’t convert any of it.He played with a cooler head than fed even in the tiebreak.But talented people need not always win.Winning matches in the professional level is more about mental toughness and consistency more than anything else.Its just about raising the level of your game in the important moments of the match and fighting tooth and nail for every point without ever giving anything for free.If winning is always equated to talent then how come nadal with his claycourt skills ends up beating andy murray when everbody knows that andy murray was the better player in that match in madrid 07.

To everybody :

Anyway what Roger needs now is a break so the superbowl is not a bad idea.I think he is simply obsessed and stressed out with breaking records now and its affecting his game.The level is definitely down as everybody could see in this AO tournament.It was not just against djok but even against blake and berdych.Maybe that 5 setter took too much out of him.I think fed struggles with hard hitters.I mean big flat hard strokes which are deep in the court and fed has a tough time getting it back in the court consistently.The youngsters these days are all round players who really hit it really hard and deep.It does lead to unforced errors from fed’s racquet.I kinda saw that happening against tipsy.The game is changing and its more physical now.Even sampras admitted that youngsters are really hitting that ball hard these days. Size does matter and players who are not big and strong don’t have a chance these days against the young guns.For eg cilic boxed gonzalez outta the court in AO.The big guy moves well for his size.

We will see how fed’s gonna get around these changes.With djok, once fed figures out that serve I think he will be able to beat djok without much trouble.The main difference between the djok of today and the djok we all saw in that AO 2007 is the serve.

February 7th, 2008 at 4:19 pm

Lilly,
one more thing.This is just a discussion and to me it is normal to have different views on different issues. Doesn’t make any of us a better or worse person. I am glad that you can state what you think without attacking the other person as some other Djoko fans tried to do here. so I appreciate that.

February 7th, 2008 at 4:23 pm

Ryan,
thanks for the credit! lol!

it is so true that tennis is more about mental toughness and consistency.That’s what’s amazing to me about Federer and even more about Nadal at this young age.
That’s what we have to see if Djoko is going to develope. He is not as fit as Rafa and Fed. But he uses different strategies physically. Now we have to see how he does under all this pressure. This is a crucial year for him. He showed signs of cracking in AO. he might get better as the year goes. We have to see.

About Fed, I still think I can’t judge him by AO alone. I think he has less pressure on him now but he still is full of desire to win and that talent is always with him. I want to see how he plays when 100%.

February 7th, 2008 at 5:21 pm

Zola,

Of course I`m not objective…neither are Rafa fans nor are Federer`s. But honestly I was shocked by some of the comments here. People are not perfect. And every single move these tennis players make are heavily scrutinized and we can`t wait for them to do smth bad for us to say Oh that guy is bad…I think Nole, Rafa, Roger seem to be nice guys just very different…

February 7th, 2008 at 5:45 pm

Ryan,

Your comments from “But again…” all the way to “madrid 07″ make a lot of sense. I agree with pretty much everything you’ve written there.

Basically it hearkens an article I read a while ago that contrasted “will” players vs. “skill” players (in Tennis magazine, by Peter Bodo, I think it was). He argued for the “will” players (like Roddick or Rafa) vs. the “skill” ones (like Gasquet or Murray) because he likes how they fight and keep working, but he ultimately concluded that what makes a *truly great champion* is one who has both exceptional talent AND a buring desire to win – in equal measure. He said Roger is just that, and that Federer doesn’t make him choose between will or skill.

As to your other comments, maybe Roger’s will is shifting; he really wants Olympic gold, and he really wants the French. Maybe he wasn’t super pumped about the AO, not to mention the fact that he was sick beforehand. And about Djoker’s game against Fed – I agree that the serve was troubling Fed, but I thought Djoker returned really well in both that match, and, after the first set, against Tsonga. And another thing both Tipsy and Djok did was hit deep and take away time from Federer, so he wasn’t able to generate the kinds of angles he finds, or dicdate play.

Anyhow, I liked your post – no swear words! ;-)
Thanks for that.

February 7th, 2008 at 7:47 pm

Agree with Ryan on the serve troubling Fed. I also dont think Fed had a definite strategy against Djoker. Fed is a guy who probabaly makes strategies on the fly when on the court, depending on what is/isnt working for him and the opponent. But somehow against Djoker, his strategy wasnt working well.. its only in the 3rd set he made some changes and stretched it to a tie-breaker. Djoker on the other hand had come with a definite stretgy in mind.

So i certainly feel, Fed would only gain by getting a good coach.

February 7th, 2008 at 9:37 pm

HRyan:

“Hey Von how u doin? Somebody has to give a lotta credit you tejuz,zola for posting comments in this blog all day long man….wonder where’s grendel..”

Hi Ryan. Thanks for the compliments. Great to see that you are happier and in fact, most of us are happier now that the storm has passed, but a few waves are still kicking up. Grendel moved to another Tennis site.

I like your analysis of the present day tennis players’ state of mind and the hard hitters with mental toughness.

You stated:

“I think fed struggles with hard hitters.I mean big flat hard strokes which are deep in the court and fed has a tough time getting it back in the court consistently.”

You have hit the nail on the head. This is the reason why Roddick has not had any success with Fed. A-Rod does not hit deep enough strokes. It’s weird though because he is such a strong guy with a lot of power and that serve is unmatchable. His problem lies in the short returns and leaving those balls so high like oranges waiting to be plucked and that’s where Fed capitalizes and beats Andy, everytime. I thought that Connors would have seen that, but from what’s happening, I think Andy would be better off with a better modern day coach.

The younger players/coaches have been able to analyze Fed’s game and find his weakness and that’s why they cause him a problem. I doubt whether Fed could change his game to handle this problem. I don’t feel that Fed has enough power to return those strokes, especially when they are flat and end up at his feet. That’s what Gonzo did at the TMC plus he powered out his forehand shots hitting every angle. Fed was unable to get a return play.

You stated:” We will see how fed’s gonna get around these changes.”

I don’t think that there’s much Fed can change in his game. I feel that Fed lacks the power to hit out as deep or to return those deep strokes. He’ll have to run a lot more to get to those balls and nothing can be done when the players hit out at the angles. He has the mental toughness, but the consistency factor now hinges on his ability to be able to get some wood on the deep powered balls and win every match. It’s a tough, tall order. I feel that we’re going to see Fed losing a bit more this year. It will all come down to mental toughness plus powerful, deep returns = win = consistency. Fed will have to take the ball on the rise in mid court and make crisp volleys like Sampras used to do. He’ll have to get to the net more. It’s not easy to play that serve and volley game. It takes a lot out of a player. Sampras fans should appreciate him even more considering all he has accomplished with his style of play.

We’re in for a great season with many twists and turns along the way and some changes in the Top 10. Very interesting.

Ryan, I hope you are as exicited about this ’08 Tennis season as I am. Keep posting.

“I think fed struggles with hard hitters.I mean big flat hard strokes which are deep in the court and fed has a tough time getting it back in the court consistently.

February 7th, 2008 at 10:00 pm

Hello Von,

I came across another A-Rod article today, with which I think you’ll agree – most of it anyhow:

http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/tennis/news/story?id=3231271

I think you’re right that he needs a day-to-day coach besides his brother, and if he wants to have Connors as an advisor, fine, but he needs more on-hand I think.

Cheerio!

February 7th, 2008 at 10:23 pm

Tejuz,

“I also dont think Fed had a definite strategy against Djoker… Djoker on the other hand had come with a definite stretgy in mind.”

Exactly – players needs to do their homework before the get onto the court and have a plan, even great, great players. Having a coach to help in that regard is key. I think you’re right that a coach could even help Fed, if not to change his game, to prep him on other player’s games and improvements, etc.

February 7th, 2008 at 10:26 pm

Anybody and Everybody would struggle to return deep balls consistently and everbody knowz they have to play it deep, be it against Federer or anybody else.. but then, not everybody, including Federer, can do that so consistently. It all depends on the confidence level on your shots at that time. Nadal or Roddick or Safin.. during their interviews keep saying that should have returned the ball deeper in the court..but they couldnt.. cuz there is more scope of making unforced errors. Djoker was high on condidence.. and was going flat out against Roger, especially in the 2nd set. Even Roger hiself said.. that it isnt Djokers normal game to go flat out. Same with Gonzo.. he went falt out with his backhand and forehand.. and if those shots come good… u can certainly trouble Federer.

But thats a game which is hard to maintain for the whole season. Gonzo faded the next match itself.. Djoker might fade next month probabaly… but that kind of game is very very hard to maintain.

Federer still had the power to outhit anyone out there. He chooses not to..and sometimes he is down on confidence.

Hitting deep hard strokes is best way to beat anybody..including Nadal or Fed or Djoker. But its a low percentage play and not everybody can play that kind of game and not make heaps of unforced errors.

February 7th, 2008 at 10:44 pm

Jane:

“I think you’re right that he needs a day-to-day coach besides his brother, and if he wants to have Connors as an advisor, fine, but he needs more on-hand I think.”

Very interesting article. Thanks. I sent him an email last week about my choice for a new coach. I also mentioned that he needs a modern day coach, not a Connors grinder coach. Let’s see if he listens. He did listen when he was thinking of pulling out of TMC. I sent an email and he went. Let’s see what he is going to change. He also needs to take chances on his opponents game and drive those balls, hard. Only time will tell.

Cheerio!

February 8th, 2008 at 12:29 am

Tejuz:

Are those shocks getting to you. You seem rather cranky.

“But thats a game which is hard to maintain for the whole season. Gonzo faded the next match itself.. Djoker might fade next month probabaly… but that kind of game is very very hard to maintain.”

I agree, it’s not easy on a day to day basis on a long haul. Again, that’s why I say Sampras was under-appreciated.

Well, we can speculate all we want, let’s see when he plays next. I’ll be watching and making notes. Will you?

You’ll be shocked, twice!

February 8th, 2008 at 12:34 am

Tejuz,

Yeah, I agree it takes confidence to go flat out on your shots, but Djok plays deep like that against pretty much everyone, as far as I can tell. It’s kind of his style. And it allows him to get into a dictating position on his service games, but pretty quickly on return games as well. His returns are consistently deep, he steps inside the baseline, and he starts dictating the points. He certainly can overhit, but I am surprised at the lack of errors, all things considered (unlike, say, Blake or Gonza, who are error prone). If he continues to return deep, and develops a solid volleying game, it’ll allow him to end points (and matches) more quickly, which may help him and his fitness in the long run.

However, we’ll see if he can continue to play this way, as you’ve said.

February 8th, 2008 at 12:55 pm

Jane:
“but Djok plays deep like that against pretty much everyone, as far as I can tell.”

I dont agree that Djoker plays like that everytime against everyone.. and not make much errors.. cuz if he did play like that we wouldnt have been seeing him play 4hr matches at wimbledon, US Open and the Frech. Its only at this years Aussie Open that he was in his zone. He played out of his skin against Federer. So i guess we’ll just have to wait and see if he can maintain the Aussie open form through out the year. I dont see that happening.

Also his defence.. which consist of lot of sliding on hard courts might be beneficial short term for the tournament.. but it sure isnt gonna help him in the long run. He’ll be more prone to injuries. And one big injury can actually take ur confidence away.. also the momentum.. see Safin or even Murray.

February 10th, 2008 at 1:51 am

Tejuz:

“Also his defence.. which consist of lot of sliding on hard courts might be beneficial short term for the tournament.. but it sure isnt gonna help him in the long run. He’ll be more prone to injuries.”

You’ve got that right. A lot of lower back, leg and ankle problems. He makes his share of errors as compared to some of the big servers. We’ll see how he does in the MS tournaments.

You’ll be shocked, twice! Your friend disappeared. What did you do to him?

February 10th, 2008 at 6:17 am

Tejuz;

Well, I got my answer about the GS Champion’s consistency and fitness. He played against Davydenko in the 4th rubber. I was wondering why would Tarpischev go with Davydenko.

The first two sets Djok was firing some aces and also got some double faults and errors returning “deep.”. Davydenko had break points against Djok 18 times but could not convert. In the second set I saw Djok doing his knee bends, the same way he behaves when he is setting up for a medical time-out, and I thought wow, he’s going to call the trainer. He didn’t. He won the second set because Davy could not convert on the break points again.

Third set, Djok was firing aces out wide. Davy got broken, however, again, Davy could not convert on the break points from the first three games of the 3rd set. Anyway, from 3-0 down, Davy started to play better and broke the Djok. After that the Djok looked like he was going to have an epileptic seizure. Davy won the 3rd set 6-4. Comes the commercial break, after the break, I saw Djok walking off the court and apparently he said he could not go on anymore. Davy looked shocked, he wasn’t sure what was happenening. Russia got the win.

This guy cannot handle pressure and cannot go the distance. He does not have what it takes to grind. Imagine doing that to your country? I know some will say he was sick, or out of it, but he was fine yesterday in the doubles and sprinting through the first 2 sets he played. I’ve seen Sampras sick, throw up, and return to win. I’ve also seen Roddick sick, throw up, and continue with his DC match. Fed sick at the AO and return to win against Blake.

It was clear after Davy broke in the 3rd set and was winning that the Djok did not want to play anymore. What a character. As your pen pal stated, you’ll be shocked, twice. Yes, we’re shocked alright about his retirement and his inability to deliver in crunch time. He’ll be fine on Monday when he has to play in Marseille.

I wish ATP did not change from 5 sets to 3 in the MS tournaments, because he would not have been able to win those 2 MS tourneys.

February 10th, 2008 at 8:45 am

my oh my, this is the first time i have read these blogs.Icannot fathom how these armchair racketeers deride the players,specificly poor Novak.Iremember watching Jimmy Connors in his heydayand Ilija Nastase.These guys were brutal in their on court antics so leave poo Novak alone he brings color to the game

February 10th, 2008 at 10:47 am

My dear fellow tennis fans remember its great to have a favorite player but ultimatly its the appreciation of the game thats foremost.Roger Federer is not one of my fav. players(i think he can be a bit condescending) but i appreciate his enormous talent. Rafa has been accused of glaring at his opponentsby critics (probably Feds fans) but he is always gracious in victory or defeat. therefore i submit to you all that the venom i have seen directed at this young man Djokovic is petty and not in keeping with sportsmanship. I am sure his countrymen are proud of him,rightly so just as Americans are of Andy Roddick, Brits of Andy Murray,Spaniards of Rafa even when they are not at their best. Enjoy the game.Cheer for your Hero but do not display such vitrolism toward a young player who you should have the fairness to admit has accomplished so much at great odds. As a avid tennis fan i say good show Novak.

February 10th, 2008 at 1:09 pm

As a longtime tennis fan might i say how disappointing it is to see such a vitrolic tirade against this one individual who had the audacity to upset the obvious favorite. While Roger Federer is not one of my favorite players,i would never denigrate his persona or his immense talent.You see i appreciate the game and as one of my favs, Andre Agassi, eventually lost to younger talented players so will Roger one day.That is what sport is aboutand why these young guns train and strive so hard,to be the best. I remember Andre, when he was younger, as well as Ilia Nastase and Andy Roddick display some dubious behavior on court. It is interesting that they are regarded as such icons in the sport and rightly so.So even if Mr. Djokovic is not your favorite player have the courtesy and fairnessof the sport to aplaud the fact that as a very young man he is talented and has accomplished quite a lot. As a Canadian, I do not have a champion to cheer on ,but maybe one day, but i can certainly allow this young man,s countr y menpride in his feats.Here to more great tennis and less sour grapes

February 10th, 2008 at 1:42 pm

tennis fan,

I like your posts; they seem really fair-minded, which I try to be.

But I think it should be added that Djokovic’s fans shouldn’t attack other people for stating a valid comment about Djokovic (e.g., that he has a lot of time outs, or whatever, which is true). I like Djoker but I respect that some people don’t.

I like that this is a place where we can all voice our opinions but think it’s possible to do so in a reasonable and not cruel manner.

February 10th, 2008 at 4:11 pm

Von,

Djokovic had flu.Not three weeks ago but at the very moment he played. He Hadn`t trained for days. When I have flu though I can get out of bed bsically can`t leave the house, can`t think, can`t run…What can you do when you are ill? Novak, who was pale and slow, DOMINATED Davydenko… WE IN SERBIA ARE SO LUCKY TO HAVE HIM!!!!!HE IS SWEEET AND BRIGHT AND A TRUE CHAMPION!!!!!!!

February 10th, 2008 at 4:44 pm

Djokovic, playing his first match since winning his first Grand Slam title in Melbourne last month, joined forces with Nenad Zimonjic to thrash Russians Mikhail Youzhny and Dmitry Tursunov 6-3, 7-6, 7-6 in the doubles portion of their first-round matchup.

Russia benefited from Novak Djokovic’s misfortune to sneak into the quarter-finals of the Davis Cup .

The Serbian, who had been suffering from flu symptoms over the past week, was leading Nikolay Davydenko 6-4 6-3 4-6 in the first reverse singles when he abruptly retired to hand Russia an unbeatable 3-1 lead in the first-round tie in Moscow.

Another Serbian, Viktor Troicki beat Dmitry Tursunov 7-6 4-6 6-3 in the final rubber to narrow Russia’s winning margin to 3-2.

February 10th, 2008 at 4:53 pm

tennis fan:

Do you remember the following comments you posted just after Djokovic won the AO?

Tennis Fan Says:
(I’m afraid I would have to agree with the comments below posted by people on the Yahoo board. The Aussie’s know arrogance when they see it. They were booing Djokovic through several of his matches even though he is was the underdog. and what was with ripping off his shirt after the Federer match? …and have you seen how he drops his towel in front of the ballboy when he goes to each end, while other players hand it over with some courtesy?? For the Djokovic lovers … you can have him, I for one like a winner that has some class! Give me anyone but this knob!)

Below are further comments posted by others on the Yahoo site:
Comments after the Djokovic-Federer Match
____________________________________________
Djokovic…what an arrogant s.o.b?
Just saw the post match conference. What an arrogant piece of crap Dorkovic is. Totally classless with no respect whatsoever for anyone. Total egomaniac. Lost all respect for him and I hope Tsonga serves the pr!ck up on a plate. If Dorkovic ever becomes #1 then tennis will take a big step backwards.
2 days ago
Report It

by El Capitan Member since:

I totally agree. He has not been in the profession long enough to have earned the right to talk as he does. Even guys like Nadal and Federer who have established themselves have the decency to be respectful when talking about their peers in public. This is exactly the type of player tennis, or any sport could do without.

Asker’s Comment: 100% agree. You look at players like Agassi, Sampras and Federer. Gracious losers and even more gracious winners. The disrespect he showed by barely acknowledging Federer in the post match press conference and then putting Tsonga down because he isnt ranked as high as him is classless
________________________________________________
Tennis Fan says: OK, I have said my piece. I like my Tennis … but you can have Djokovic!

Posted January 27th, 2008 at 4:29 pm

__________________
tennis fan:

You do recognize the above post don’t you? Or, was it written by someone else?

What am I to assume that you’ve changed your feelings about Djokovic? What I have found to be shocking is the fact that there are others just like you who switch back and forth. It’s OK to be self-righteous or even sanctimonious, but for God’s sake be consistent.

Further, it seems to me that you and others like you don’t really have anything consquential to post but just sit back and wait for any poster’s comments that you can find to attack. In other words, you’re not interested in posting about tennis, you’re just in the business of launching an attack to demonstrate to others how self-righteous/sanctimonious you are. You can fool some of the people some of the time, but you can’t fool all of the people all of the time.

Get your act together.

February 10th, 2008 at 7:09 pm

Lilly:

I have responded to your comments in a previous post, however it is clear to me now, that you don’t want an answer to your posts, you just want a ontinuous argument about Djokovic. However, this is what I am going to do for you, Lilly, I am going to ignore you.

You are in the harassment business. The function of this forum is specifically for people to air their views on the topic of tennis. The tennis players’ behaviour, whether good or bad is related to the topic of tennis, and we present our opinions in the form of our posts, despite the fact that you and others like you think it’s unfair.

You are welcome to address any posts to me, but I won’t give you the courtesy of a reply. You need to bear in mind that I have freedom of speech and as such, I am entitled to state my opinions without being harassed. If you don’t like what I have to say, that’s too bad.

February 10th, 2008 at 7:25 pm

Either you play the match only when you know you can go the distance or just let others do the job because its finally going to affect the the Team.

When a fatigued Fed lost to Nalbandian in a 5-set marathon at Masters Cup 2005, he was leading 2 sets to love.. which actually went past 2 hours. Thats when he started feeling fatigue and his sore ankle dint help him. Next 2 sets he was beaten convincingly. He could have thrown in the towel when he was down 0-4 in the 5th… but he fought back with whatever was left in him.. to take the set to a tie-breaker and lost graciously. He did say that time.. if he wasnt feeling well he would not play the match, but if he did play.. then he would make sure he would never retire so as to take nothing away from the opponent’s victory.

We have seen this retiring stuff from Djoker sooooooooo many times… and thats not how champions behave. Because if champion’s lose.. they lose graciously with a fight.

February 10th, 2008 at 7:38 pm

Von:
“As your pen pal stated, you’ll be shocked, twice. Yes, we’re shocked alright about his retirement and his inability to deliver in crunch time. He’ll be fine on Monday when he has to play in Marseille.”

Were you shocked??? Not me… i wasnt shocked with Djoker’s behaviour … cuz its just what he has been doing for last few years… retiring when he knows he is going to get thumped. Nothing’s changed, except that he is now an AO Champion.

I am still waiting for those shocks… mind you.. 2 shocks, that is…

February 10th, 2008 at 7:47 pm

Von,

About the harssement-it`s you who is doing it, sitting at home, waiting for Novak to make a double fault for you to say Ah he doesn`t serve well. Who cares what you say… I only reacted because of the BS you were telling. You are no tennis fan, just a mean, bitter person…

February 10th, 2008 at 8:17 pm

Small minded and dense people who can’t win an argument based solely on fact revert to name calling.

February 10th, 2008 at 8:45 pm

Von, Were u shocked with Djoker’s behaviour?

February 10th, 2008 at 8:55 pm

Tejuz says:
Anybody and Everybody would struggle to return deep balls consistently and everbody knowz they have to play it deep, be it against Federer or anybody else.. but then, not everybody, including Federer, can do that so consistently……..Hitting deep hard strokes is best way to beat anybody..including Nadal or Fed or Djoker. But its a low percentage play and not everybody can play that kind of game and not make heaps of unforced errors.

I think this is amazingly well put. I was quite athletic when young, but for various reasons, never pursued tennis – one of the many things I was always gonna pick up on, but somehow never quite got round to. Unlike Edith Piaf, I have regrets by the score. Useless, but there it is. Now I can faff around on a court with my son, that’s the Nadal fan, the traitor,who has lessons and is getting to be rather good – the bugger – and will be able to beat me soon. Still, at the moment, I can still keep the ball pretty deep, at least I can when he doesn’t unleash one of his unnerving forehands, and he’s only 12 and nothing special really. It’s then that I get to understand what a difficult and skilful game this tennis is. Looks easy when you watch it on telly, doesn’t it, and you wonder, why can’t these fools – supposed to be among best 100 in the world, not in Leeds, not in Yorkshire, not in England, the world for God’s sake – regularly paste the corners? Well, they can’t because they are facing players who are basically just as skilful as they are, just as fast, just as strong, just as relentlessly, nightmarishly determined to give them a hard time. Djokovic sure played a tough game against Fed, although imo – worthless, I hasten to add, but I have eyes and I endeavour to interpret what they see – nothing like as convincingly as Nalbandian when he is on song against fed. I raised a few eyebrows on another site when I said I thought Nalbandian was as talented as Fed – but less gifted. What is this fool talking about, doesn’t he understand elementary logic? Ah, but I was expressing my own confusion. So often you would see Nalbandian doing beautifully just what Tejuz describes so pithily, calmly driving Federer into the corners, creating angles out of nowhere, and apparently able to do so off some of Fed’s best shots. Time and again, Fed would hit a pretty good shot, and you’d lean back preparing to purr, and damn me if the ball doesn’t come back with interest, and federer is reduced to desperate defence yet again (and in passing, how good to watch that is, btw – wonderful but, against a player like Nalbandian, doomed; execution is merely postponed). And yet, although you can see Nalbandian in some bizarre way toying with Federer, you still want to say that Fed is the more gifted, and not just out of some tribal loyalty. Hard to explain.

Then there are others who don’t hug the base line as Nalbie and the Djoker can – remember the Masters final in 2006 in America (Montreal was it – can’t remember)? Gasquet won first set with relative ease against a good Federer. They were both playing what Sensational Safin call “oh my god shots”, and on this occasion – don’t think I’ve seen it before – Gasquet’s were somehow even more startling. He should have broken Fed in first game second set – believe it was 0 – 40, but Gasquet woke up and remembered that he was, after all, Gasquet, and allowed Fed back in. You knew instantly the match was over. This picks up an earlier discussion on talent – it comes in many guises. The thing about Federer is that he is a warrior as well as an artist, and that makes him unusual.

I am interested in something Jane said more than once, and so far as I know, noone responded to it. She said that Djokovic read Fed’s serve. I was startled to read that, for it had honestly never occurred to me. I just assumed that Fed’s serve was disastrously off for some reason. Djokovic himself put a slightly different slant on it in his presser:

I was intending to be from the start aggressive, especially on his second serve. And, you know, I was well?prepared for the match. You know, if he wasn’t serving, of course he had problems, he was struggling with the serve. Why? Because I made a lot of pressure. It’s not because he was struggling.

The thing is, does Djokovic really believe that, or does he just want to believe it., especially in the flush of victory, that would be understandable. I’m not inclined to believe either Djokovic or Jane. Not Djokovic, because of course Fed is immensely experienced in tight situations, and can generally rely on his serve (if not other components of his game) – he just isn’t likely to crumble under pressure, at least not so comprehensively. I couldn’t believe how poor – by his standards – his serving was. Lacklustre, I think is the word. None of the usual bite and penetration – so even the placement suffered. I find Jane’s view implausible on different grounds. No one really seems to read the really great serves. Fed himself admitted he couldn’t read Sampras only recently, and nor could anyone else. No one could read Ivanesevic (except when he tired, as one does over 5 sets – that’s how Sampras and Agassi managed to beat him at Wimbie ); noone can read Karlovic. Federer may not be quite up there with these guys, but he’s not far off; he’s such a clever server, it’s marvellous to watch. I doubt if anyone can read him when he’s on. I just think he had something of an off day. This is important, because it must affect future Fed/Djokovic matches. I doubt if Federer can beat a hot Djokovic on hard courts any more unless his serve is behaving itself. Incidentally, I am not so sanguine that Federer will gain his revenge in their next meeting. It’s not just the US open final and the Djoker’s win a month or so before. In A.O. 2006, Djokovic was the only player to extend and even briefly threaten Federer (4th round was it?). He has the game to beat Federer – and he’ll want to, oh yes, won’t he want to. Nothing like putting the boot in when your man’s down. That’s warrior instinct, which Djokovic shares with Fed.
Don’t get me wrong. I’d love to see Fed hammer Djokovic. Can’t see it, though. Reckon it’ll be close.

February 10th, 2008 at 9:25 pm

Grendel,

I believe almost everybody noticed that something was wrong with Fed serve. I believe he wasn’t able to serve due to his stomach thing, as mentioned before in other tread. His serve wasn’t near 60% of his capacity while Djoko was the one with the serve shining.
I think, as you pointed, that none can really read a “great server” that well, even an inspired Djokovic.

February 10th, 2008 at 10:08 pm

Grendel:

First of all.. Welcome back.. nice to see you post here again.

Agree that Djoker has the warrior instinct like Fed and Nadal. And their future matches might not be as easy as some of us claim. Fed clearly wasnt serving well on the day… and Djoker was returning well too, which he normally does against most players. But i do feel he didnt have a good enough game plan again Djoker and over-used the slice backhand.

BTW, AO 2006 was a straight setter though and Djoker never really extended Fed there.

Also agree that Djoker’s win wasnt as convincing as how Nalabdian beats Fed when he is on song.

February 10th, 2008 at 10:19 pm

Helo, grendel:

Good to see you’re back and with the same fire.

You stated:

“Don’t get me wrong. I’d love to see Fed hammer Djokovic. Can’t see it, though. Reckon it’ll be close.”

Oh Ye of little faith. Where’s that fighter instinct? You can’t bail out on the guy so quickly. I would also like to see Fed hammer Djok, (for my own personal reasons, and that is to silence that mouth) and I think it will happen the next time they meet. Hopefully, it’s a 5 setter. What a pity the ATP changed to two (2) best in three (3). As we all know after a tough 2 sets Djok begins to crumble. It should be interesting.

February 10th, 2008 at 11:19 pm

Tejuz:

“Von, Were u shocked with Djoker’s behaviour?”

Not shocked enraged. It’s a pity his faithful fans can’t see the stupidity of his actions. He took away their chances of beating Russia by playing in the 4th rubber. He should have let the other guys play. His eithics can do with an overhaul. Why did he even bother to play. I think he felt he could have finished Davy in 3 sets, or he was just putting on a show, and when Davy began to heat up, Djok thought to himself, get me the hell outa here. The heat is getting to me.

Mom and Pop Djok were very quiet. I suppose they realized that if they only stepped out of line those Russians would have stampeded them. Mom was not a happy camper.

Those posts by his fans, I realized that a couple of them are impersonating other people by using their post nemes and then post their offensive views. How sick can people get. I can’t believe they are offended that we post to each other. They can do the same, except their brains can’t come up with the thoughts. Have you ever seen any posts from those people before? I never saw any until he won the AO.

February 10th, 2008 at 11:34 pm

Hi Grendel – welcome back.

You disagree with me? Shocking! LOL.

Fed’s serve probably was off in that match (he sure wasn’t getting easy points on it like he did against Djoker at the USO or Nadal at Wimbledon), but so were his forehands and his movement; most people who’ve commented on the match here agree that it was an “off” day for Federer, but also that Djokovic played well and fought hard. I am not sure if I said Djokovic was reading Fed’s serve (although I am pretty sure that Patrick McEnroe said that), in the sense that he was predicting it, but either way I know I did say that he returned very well against both Federer and Tsonga, and I’ll stick with that assessment.

February 11th, 2008 at 1:12 am

Tejuz,

I’d have to go back and watch those long matches from last year; Djoker definitely did play a lot of 4 and 5 setters in 07, but I am not sure how, specifically, he managed to shorten his matches at the AO this year. I know it was a goal of his, which he said in interviews, to try and shorten matches. He even hired a volleying coach last July, post Wimbledon I believe. But was it his driving the ball deep that shortened his matches at this year’s AO? I don’t know; I thought he played that way last year too, esp. on hard courts. Maybe his serve contributed, as well as his net play. Probably an assortment of changes / strategies.

I agree that Djoker will have to be careful about injuries; the slide could be a problem – look at Jelena, his compatriot; she’s a bundle of injuries, and also likes to slip and slide on the court. It really is amazing that Federer has remained so injury-free in his time at the top; he appears to move so effortlessly around the court, which is why it was so surprising to see him scramble against Djokovic.

February 11th, 2008 at 1:29 am

Grendel,
So, we have someone in your court! I love it that your son is a Rafa fan! Vamos!

Regarding Djokovic reading Fed’s serve, I am not really convinced. I want to see them play when both are healthy. They way Fed served from Madrid on, he reminded me of Sampras. I am sure Djoko is more confident now and he is probably improving. But I have to see them play again, to be convinced that Fed can’t disguise his service motion from Djoko.

February 11th, 2008 at 4:50 am

Von, Grendel, Zola, Ryan, Sensational Safin ….

Some great stats and stuff about retiring between matches

http://www.tennis.com/features/general/features.aspx?id=70246

http://www.tennis.com/features/general/features.aspx?id=70254

These stats were all matches before Feb 28 2007.. and Djoker was already 8th in that list. After that i recall atleast 2 more retirements, which elevates him to joint 6th place with Andy Roddick even though he has played a third of matches as much as Roddick. Not surprisingly.. Fed has ‘zero’ retirements to his name and Nalbandian as just one, which was his semi-final loss at French Open.

February 11th, 2008 at 5:40 am

Some great stats and stuff about retiring between matches

http://www.tennis.com/features/general/features.aspx?id=70246

http://www.tennis.com/features/general/features.aspx?id=70254

These stats were all matches before Feb 28 2007.. and Djoker was already 8th in that list. After that i recall atleast 2 more retirements, which elevates him to joint 6th place with Andy Roddick even though he has played a third of matches as much as Roddick. Not surprisingly.. Fed has ‘zero’ retirements to his name and Nalbandian as just one, which was his semi-final loss at French Open.

February 11th, 2008 at 5:58 am

sorry for the multiple posts guys.. my comp was playing up and wasnt seeing my posts after posting them. Hence tried it a few times.

February 11th, 2008 at 6:02 am

Tejuz:

Below is some info regarding Fed’s unforced errors as compared to Djokovic’s unforced in the AO semi-finals.

Federer v Djokovic – As It Happened
Australian Open: Who will join Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the final? Find out with Paolo Bandini NOW
Djokovic beats Federer 7-5, 6-3, 7-6 (7-5) And Djokovic does it! It was another fierce serve from Federer, powered across Djokovic’s face, but the Serb hasn’t let many opportunities pass him by in this match, and he wasn’t going to with this one. Lunging at full stretch he managed to just about get the ball back over, drew Federer into a rally and then waited for the world No1 to drive the ball into the net for his 32nd unforced error of the match. Actually the official stats show Djokovic had just as many, but, crucially, he also had 50 winners to Federer’s 38.

As I stated before that it was not a runaway match, just the crucial points were won. Someone stated that Djok does not make many unforced errors, not so according to this article.

Jane stated: “He certainly can overhit, but I am surprised at the lack of errors, all things considered (unlike, say, Blake or Gonza, who are error prone). I am sorry to be the bearer of bad news but Djok does have a lot of unforced errors.

February 11th, 2008 at 7:42 am

Tejuz, it’s true Fed/Djoko 2006 AO was straight sets. But I do remember the match, and feeling pretty tense – you just sensed that the guy was troubling Fed, and could be a major nuisance. At some point, it suddenly became routine – in effect, the white flag had been hauled. (I suspect this partly explains Djokovic’s recent allusions to the “white flag”. Maybe he wasn’t being provocative, but was just conscious that he had been guilty of surrender on more than one occasion – and was determined to avoid that again; I think you have to give credit to his resolution here).

Until that point, it had been a real match, with the result just a little bit in doubt – in my eyes, anyway.

February 11th, 2008 at 9:24 am

Hi Von,

“I am sorry to be the bearer of bad news but Djok does have a lot of unforced errors.”

He plays “percent tennis” according to some of the commentators, which I guess means – in part – that he easily clears the ball and hits it deep, in addition to waiting for opportunities rather than going for winners.. As I said, he does “overhit,” by which I meant he makes unforced errors, but given how deep he keeps the ball in rallies, as well as in serves and returns, I’d think there’d almost be more errors from his end. Some of Djok’s errors in that match were on those dumb drop volleys, and I think he had a number of double faults. Some he didn’t miss by much.

Anyhow, I agree that even though it was a straight setter it was by no means a runaway match. Had Fed taken either that first set or the third then he probably could’ve won it. That’s why against Federer players have to take their opportunities when they get them – no choking allowed!

February 11th, 2008 at 12:31 pm

Grendel,

Maybe I was thinking more of Djokovic’s match against Tsonga, wherein he definitely returned Tsonga’s serves well; I looked online for some expert commentary on Djok’s return of serve and found this:

http://sports.espn.go.com/broadband/video/videopage?videoId=3217106&categoryId=2491545&n8pe6c=3

Djok’s return on match point against Federer was also pretty exceptional, imho, given the occasion, Djok really stayed composed.

February 11th, 2008 at 1:02 pm

If you have a tape of the Fed v Djok match, have a look at the final game of the first set, Fed serving at 5 – 6.

At 15 love, Djok hits a very deep return on Fed’s 2nd serve, which has Fed back on his heels a little bit; at 30 – 15, Djok hits another v. deep return on Fed’s 1st serve, and then again at 30 all, again on a 2nd serve, he hits another one extremely deep, allowing him to dictate play and get the break point. Now, obviously Fed wasn’t getting in enough first serves and made a few UEs in this game, but Djok returned consistently well by keeping Fed back & then dictating. Djok planned ahead to attack on 2nd serves but when he could get a racquet on ‘em, I thought his returns of 1st serves were good too.

For the match Fed’s 1st serve % was 62% and he won 70% of first serve points so it wasn’t an abysmal serving performance by Fed, at least statistically speaking. Djok & Fed’s match serving stats were similar.

February 11th, 2008 at 2:23 pm

to von: sir in response to your criticism of my not being consistent about the tirade directed at Mr. djokovic,let me inform you that i postedblogs only one time. You mention how democratic countries allow for freedom of expression, so please allow me mine and i do not care for the condescending names directed at me. you state that small minded, dense people revert to name calling to support their logic.Your use of expletives such as NOB,PRICK,S.O.B CRAP in your blog to me urges me to reply, go to the largest mirror in your home.What does the reflection tell you son? As a clinician in the mental health field i suggest you take a chill pill and as a sports fan i maintain we can critique players playing prowness without denegrating their their ethniticity or persona. as to the jostling between some of the Tsonga supporters and the Djokovic box, i understood some lewd comments were aimed at Novak and thus angry words were exchanged. To bad , and not condoned for either side. At any rate,I do not support mean spirited comments from you or the bloggers that root for Djokovic. If you are a true tennis fan and dride Djokovic for what you call arrogance and cockiness, then show some sportsman like conduct and unbiased reflections because according to you this kid winning anything is an abomination. I am perplexed how such a untalented kid ranks so high in the world.I just do not get it!

February 11th, 2008 at 2:27 pm

Tennis fan : Great post!!

I second that !!

Mr. Davis,

Charles Anthony Davis

February 11th, 2008 at 2:50 pm

This is directed to some of the Djokovic fans who feel they must defend him by arguing and name calling other anti bloggers.Give it a rest. Enjoy the game and feel free to root for your guy but let his game speak for itself. As i read in a news article that some of his countrymen questioned his patriotism ,to which he replied that it was not necessary to beat his chest to prove who he was. Therefore you only antagonize other fans with caustic remarks and derision of other players. Sport has been the goodwill ambassador and common bind ammong athletes. These players compete fiercly on the court and often socialize and respect each other and so should we. Please do not get into these ugly verbal assaults as they reflect poorly on Novak. Let his and all the young aces racquets speak for them.

February 11th, 2008 at 2:53 pm

Getting 62% first serves in does not necessarily mean a lot, Jane. Theoretically, you could get 100% first serves in, and still serve mediocre. However, winning 70% of his first serve is another matter, and certainly strengthens your argument. Still, statistics are a blunt instrument, and need careful examination if they are to provide real info. For instance, how well did Fed serve on the crunch points – I mean, did he tend to win them?

One can only go on memory, not having videos and so forth to hand. And it was very noticeable how brilliamtly Fed served against Tipsy, when the rest of his game was rather ordinary. Even if Fed had lost against Tipsy, you certainly would have said that he served brilliantly. That just wasn’t so against Djokovic. How many aces did he get, just as a matter of interest? I bet it wasn’t very many.

February 11th, 2008 at 3:40 pm

This is me eating crow…

In the past I’ve called Federer smug and arrogant, and I still feel he can “come across” that way, but so can most players maybe; I’ve also taken issue with some of his attire.

Federer’s fans have reacted usually in one of two ways: a) they’ve insulted me, which usually had the adverse effect of making me defend my position further, or b) they’ve tried to reason with me, which sometimes worked.

When people started to criticize Djokovic, particularly after he won the AO, I was a little taken aback. There are about 5 or 6 players for whom I root, Djoker being one of them. I was surprised at the attacks on his play, but more on his character or whatever, and so I tried to defend him but also to acknowledge and respond to reasonable poster’s comments. But what all of this made me think of was how Fed’s fans must’ve felt when I criticized his character or attire (must be the guilty lapsed Catholic in me). These things can be rather subjective (likes/dislikes, personality, clothing, etc), and obviously anyone is entitled to his/her opinion, but my criticisms, anyhow, seem insignificant in light of this rude awakening. I feel like I was being petty about Federer, maybe looking for something to complain about because, in a nutshell, I wanted other players to win, and he was winning everything!

Besides which, though he’s still not my favorite and never will be, somehow I like Federer more now that I’ve seen a scrappier, more human, and, at least to my eyes & ears anyhow, more humble/gracious side to him at the AO – particularly after his post-Tipsarevic match press conference. And when he left the court after losing to Djok, well, I even felt badly for him – weird.

The point of all this blathering, besides the reality that I am procrastinating from work, is that I am trying to take the lead of other posters here (Tejuz always comes to mind for me, and SG and sensationalsafin) and stick to the tennis rather than trying to defend or criticize idiosyncrasies. I post because I love watching tennis, have for years, & it’s fun to try to understand it better. Apologies for the lengthy post.

February 11th, 2008 at 3:49 pm

Grendel,

Fed got 10 aces to Djok’s 13, so no, certainly not many, and no where near the virtuoso serving performance he had against Tipsy. Anyway, I do agree that stats aren’t the full story, and that Fed’s serve was not at its best by any means, but I think Djok’s return was still pretty darn good; in the second set, with Fed serving at 1-4, Djok hit more great returns. I don’t profess to be any kind of expert, but that’s just the way it looked from here.

Anyhow, enough confessing and analyzing – gotta get some work done.

February 11th, 2008 at 3:54 pm

Jane,
I think as long as the criticism doesn’t become a personal attack, everyone is entitled to express their opinion about a player. They are public figures. Unfortunately sometimes people take it to a much different level, where it shouldn’t be. I didn’t like Djoko after his famous FO 2006 comment and after his withdrawls etc…Then in IW and in Miami, I thought he was really funny. Honestly, I liked the hug at the net…I found some of his gestures in the locker room very funny too. These are all young kids and I love to see them have fun…But when things spilled to the USOpen QF ( maybe it was the CBS commentator who initiated it, but it was very repulsive to me) it was just too much. In AO…you know the rest…
I thought he adjusted a few things in the final according to people’s reaction and I think he will do further. He is a smart guy. I think you can like or dislike many things about a person and should be able to say it. But the way to express it and the way to respond to such criticism are very important as you mentioned.

February 11th, 2008 at 4:01 pm

One last reply,

“For instance, how well did Fed serve on the crunch points – I mean, did he tend to win them?”

He seemed to serve himself out of a lot of holes, yes, but from what I could see he made a lot of UEs on *his* service games, particularly off the forehand side.

February 11th, 2008 at 4:02 pm

Zola,

Thanks for your response to my, er, confession; I agree 100% with what you’ve written as follows:

“I think as long as the criticism doesn’t become a personal attack, everyone is entitled to express their opinion about a player. They are public figures”

I just was thinking about what my *motivations* were for criticizing Fed’s character and clothes, and I didn’t like what I saw in retrospect. Maybe it was “sour grapes” as tennis fan put it, so just trying to be aware.

February 11th, 2008 at 4:07 pm

As I said, he does “overhit,” by which I meant he makes unforced errors, but given how deep he keeps the ball in rallies, as well as in serves and returns, I’d think there’d almost be more errors from his end.”

No, you stated that even though he does hit deep you were surprised at his “lack of errors” as compared to Blake and Gonzo.

February 11th, 2008 at 7:05 pm

Grendel:
“Tejuz, it’s true Fed/Djoko 2006 AO was straight sets. But I do remember the match, and feeling pretty tense”

Grendel.. i was fortunate enough to witness that very match LIVE at rod laver arena from as close as 5 rows from the court. being a Fed fan myself.. I was pretty tense cuz Djoker certainly had taken sets off Fed before. But once the match started and after the initital games.. i was pretty relaxed and knew Fed was going to walk through this was pretty easily. Thats becase Fed was in divine form (not as divine as against Roddick in semis) and everybody in that Arena were marvelling at his shot making. Infact i had expected more from Djkovic that day.

I was also there for the Fed-Tipsy match this year. This time though not the same confidence and just wished Fed would somehow scrape through. There were moments of brilliance from both players.

February 11th, 2008 at 7:16 pm

Von,
Actually thinking about “brushing the lines”, maybe Nalbandian gave the recipe on how to beat Fed. Although I am still not convinced that Djoko is as good as Nalbandian, but that might be the tactic. I still think it should be harder to pull that off against a healthy Fed who moves as he usually does.

One more thing I know from federer, not many players could beat him two times in a row!

February 11th, 2008 at 7:34 pm

tennis fan:

You stated: “sir in response to your criticism of my not being consistent about the tirade directed at Mr. djokovic, let me inform you that i posted blogs only one time.”

So sorry to disappoint you. I did not write the comments with the dirty names, I was merely quoting a post written by you, tennis fan, (or maybe as you state you only posted once) or someone else using the post name of “Tennis Fan”, and I was confused about the theme of that post wherein you stated your dislike for Djokovic, and I found it confusing that in this present post of Feb. 10th, it now seems that you have gone from disliking Djokovic to liking him.

I would suggest that you read the post again, and you’ll see that I am merely quoting that previous post by, I guess, another poster with the same posting name of “tennis fan.” In that posthe mentioned that those dirty names were comments made by some people on the “Yahoo Board”. I really don’t understand how you could think that I used those names. The poster, aka “tennis fan” or whomever, posted the comments, has the name of “tennis fan”, I was merely quoting his post to you, assuming you were the asme”tennis fan”.

I hope that when you read that post again, you’ll see that you are wrong and there is no need to lecture me in any way.

With respect to your comment “Von Says:
Small minded and dense people who can’t win an argument based solely on fact revert to name calling.” I was making a statement to a post by Lilly to me as follows:

“Lilly Says:
Von,

About the harssement-it`s you who is doing it, sitting at home, waiting for Novak to make a double fault for you to say Ah he doesn`t serve well. Who cares what you say… I only reacted because of the BS you were telling. You are no tennis fan, just a mean, bitter person…”

Posted February 10th, 2008 at 8:17 pm

This woman has been harassing Zola and myself for close to 2 weeks.

Tenneis Fan:

I am going to try to find the thread that the original tennis man posted on, but I would suggest that you read my post again in which I was using a “quote” fromthe other tenn fan’s post.

As regrd my commednts: “you state that small minded, dense people revert to name calling to support their logic.”

That was to the poster, lilly,who reverts to name calling whenever she is backed into a corner.

February 11th, 2008 at 7:45 pm

Tennis fan:

BThe following is the thread in which that post is found from “tennis fan”, January 27th, 2008

“Djokovic Beats Tsonga in Aussie Final to Begin New Era…”

by Staff

February 11th, 2008 at 7:56 pm

Jane:
“He plays “percent tennis” according to some of the commentators.”

Playing percentage tennis means.. weighing your options and going for shots which have more percentage of falling into the court and less chances of making errors.

Going flat for a down the line winner over the high part of the net is not a percentage tennis..normally you would hit it cross court or hit a heavy top-spin down the line. Hitting deep balls also is more prone to errors

But i guess, playing percentage against Federer, Nadal or any other top players just doesnt work. You just have to unlease those winners. And thats what Djoker did against Fed… and Fed was quite surprised with that play from Djoker as he later admitted in his post-match interview.

February 11th, 2008 at 8:15 pm

grendel and Jane,

Very good posts on Fed’s serve!
I wonder if anyone knows how was the returning games won percentage for each player? This way we can see how Djokovic did in this department.
Even with Fed not having a lot of easy points in his service games, as usual, Djoko, as Jane pointed, was returning really well.

February 11th, 2008 at 8:16 pm

Jane, when your enemy, or however you want to label him, is beaten, it is natural to feel a certain sympathy for him. It doesn’t last, though! It’s quite mysterious how one can become so antagonistic to some players, and no doubt you can’t generalise – we all play from different song books.

Hewitt used to enrage me. So when he met the young Nadal, the year Safin won the AO, I was rooting for the Spaniard – who actually should have won, but he ran out of gas by the 5th set. Just imagine, we could easily have had a Nadal/Safin final all that time ago. I would certainly have supported Safin – he was the one person I could forgive for beating Federer – and I was spitting with rage when Hewitt won the first set, before Safin woke up. But I had nothing against Nadal then.

What changed? Well, first of all, Nadal had (in my eyes) quite a lot in common with Hewitt so far as his court persona went, and it just totally rubbed me up the wrong way. No idea why. Why do some people loathe Wagner and adore Mozart – we’re not just talking about taste here but actual love and hate – and I never believe the reasons they give. It’s something deep in the gut which goes beyond reason.

But of course, Nadal’s real sin was to challenge Federer (and incidentally, I can’t really explain why I am so keen on him, either, I don’t think it’s just his style of play, although obviously that counts for a lot; a quiet demeanour does appeal to me, but then I loved Becker, especially the young Becker, who was a breath of fresh air and had anything but a quiet demeanour). Once you’ve got it in for someone, it’s pretty hard to talk your way out of it even if you want to – so I have found.

So I suppose it served me right that my son should become a Nadal fan (actually, his primary loyalty is to Moya, but Nadal’s next), and should hate Federer. In an unguarded moment, he admitted he hated Federer for beating all the players he liked, except Nadal of course. But also, like a lot of people, he has convinced himself that Fed is smug and arrogant – I can’t quite work out whether this is real, or is it just anger at someone who wins too much. On another occasion, he asked me why don’t I like Nadal. “What is there to dislike about him?” he asked innocently, as if it would be quite impossible to find a legitimate reason. It did make me think a bit.

He was feeling pretty good at the US Open final, when Djokovic was serving for the first set. Pure anti Fed, of course, rather than pro Djokovic. So when the Serb proceeded to indulge in one of the most spectacular chokes it has been my pleasure to witness, I also had to feel a concern for my son, knowing very well how he would be feeling. Between clenched teeth, he spat out: “I want Federer to die”. I hastened to reassure him that Federer would indeed die, this being the common lot of frail humanity, but he shot me a look of contempt. “I want him to die now!” he screamed, before storming out of the room. We all knew what the result was going to be. This is the significance of that “white flag ” comment, imo.

But my son is young, and he got over it pretty quickly. Right now he is agonising over Manchester United losing at home, with their title chances perhaps slipping.

Yes, it’s strange the attachments and aversions one forms for people who wield a tennis racket. Something very primitive going on. I reckon you, Jane, are more levelheaded than most of us, since you don’t seem to attach yourself too strongly to any one player. I find it is possible, sometimes, to enjoy a player without feeling any emotional attachment at all. I don’t particularly like Sharapova, for instance, but I greatly enjoy her tennis when she is on. I wish I could do the same with Nadal – he is obviously a phenomenon, a real one off, it’s shooting yourself in the foot, really, not to allow yourself to enjoy the unique skills on show. But there you are, one seems to get stuck with certain attitudes.

February 11th, 2008 at 8:23 pm

Von Says:
Jane:

“As I said, he does “overhit,” by which I meant he
does unforced errors, but given how deep he keeps the ball in rallies, as well as in serves and returns, I’d think there’d almost be more errors from his end.”

No, you stated that even though he does hit deep you were surprised at his “lack of errors” as compared to Blake and Gonzo.

February 11th, 2008 at 8:30 pm

Grendel:

“But my son is young, and he got over it pretty quickly. Right now he is agonising over Manchester United losing at home, with their title chances perhaps slipping.”

That’s my husband’s favourite team.

February 11th, 2008 at 8:32 pm

Jane:

I was responding to your post from memory, so excuse the lack of information. OK here’s your comment:

“He certainly can overhit, but I am surprised at the lack of errors, all things considered (unlike, say, Blake or Gonza, who are error prone). If he continues to return deep, and develops a solid volleying game, it’ll allow him to end points (and matches) more quickly, which may help him and his fitness in the long run.”

February 11th, 2008 at 8:40 pm

Grendel:
“I was rooting for the Spaniard – who actually should have won, but he ran out of gas by the 5th set. I would certainly have supported Safin – he was the one person I could forgive for beating Federer – and I was spitting with rage when Hewitt won the first set, before Safin woke up. But I had nothing against Nadal then”

Quite the same reaction from myself too.. i was against Hewitt and supported Nadal. Was also fine with Safin beating Fed since he was my second fav. But later i started hating Nadal beating the hell out of Fed on clay, but i did like his fierce competitiveness.

But i really felt for him when i saw him shyly accept the runner’s up trophy at wimbledon twice in a row..I really wouldnt mind him breaking Fed’s wimbledon streak and lifting the trophy… (provided he lets Fed win the French Open ;-) )

February 11th, 2008 at 8:41 pm

Jane:

“I just was thinking about what my *motivations* were for criticizing Fed’s character and clothes, and I didn’t like what I saw in retrospect. Maybe it was “sour grapes” as tennis fan put it, so just trying to be aware..”

I would like to believe that this acknowledgement about your “motivation” for criticizing Fed’s character, etc. is an honest one and does not come at a time when it seems you have mended the fence with Grendel, hence the penitent state of mind. That should be some food for thought as to what is motivating you. Up until Sunday you were just going full sped with your Djokovic defense, and then this 360 degree turn

February 11th, 2008 at 9:00 pm

Grendel,
Is it possible that your 12 -year old is rebelling against you by hating Federer?just a thought!

I like to watch Federer’s tennis but I like Rafa’s personality. I like the fierce competetiveness and the true respect for his opponents. I was watching a youtube clip from him when he won federer in semi-final of RG 2005. He was 18 years old. he said:” today I won the person who is not only number one for his tennis but also number one for his attitude”. And this is the time when Federer was not as kind to Rafa. In Wimbledon 2006 he won Agassi, but then retreated and let the man have the stage. RG 2007, he did not jump up and down to celebrate. Because he knew how badly Federer wanted to win. …I like these moments… and I became more sympathetic towards Federer when he started to acknowledge Rafa and after his kind words for Rafa in Wimbledon.
Djokovic irritates me. Maybe something is lost is translation when he expresses himself. but he gets too nervous and says or does things that at least I don’t like. I used to find him quite funny but his stunt at QF of US Open was very repulsive to me.

Tennis is a game and no one can win everything. The true triumph is when someone learns something from a defeat and becomes a better player. I live for moments like that. I admire Federer for coming out of those defeats in summer, win wimbledon and then come back serving like Sampras! Or when Rafa came back in Indian wells after 8 months, playing quite aggressively….I did not like Sharapove at all. I had a change of mind after she gave credit to an opponent who was obviously trying to distract her by coming forward when she was serving. Sharapova took the blame for her loss and congratulated her opponent for the win. Serena to the contrary wore a cap and answering ” I donno… to all the questions. Quite a difference
. This year in AO, sharapova played beautifully and with lots of determination and I think I like her now more than many other WTA players.
So, maybe I judge the players by what they say or do rather than their game. But that’s what I like to see. The whole package. I can take crappy game from time to time. It is human. but crappy attitude…I can’t take that.

February 11th, 2008 at 9:44 pm

quite a long post. sorry guys…
I have to add that I like Rafa’s tennis a lot ( it might be implied otherwise from my post above). I love his forehand , his two handed backhand passing shots and slice,,,his rapid movement. It is very exciting to watch him. Watching Federer, I can watch his one handed backhand forever . Also his movement and his placement is phenomenal. I also liked Tsonga against Rafa( OMG!).Those frop shots were out of this world. Who else…Nalbandian…the way he constructs the points and plays on angles just amazes me. I have to admit I have not found anything amazing about Djojko yet. Maybe his forehand. If I become less annoyed about him next time, maybe I can pay more attention to his game. I hope he let people do that.

February 11th, 2008 at 9:48 pm

Jane: PLEASE DISREGARD THE PRIOR POST. I was not finished typing, I hit the submit box in error. This is the correct post.

You stated: “I just was thinking about what my *motivations* were for criticizing Fed’s character and clothes, and I didn’t like what I saw in retrospect. Maybe it was “sour grapes” as tennis fan put it, so just trying to be aware..”

I would like to believe that this acknowledgement about your “motivation” for criticizing Fed’s character, etc. is an honest one and does not come at a time when it is apparent to me that you have mended the fence with grendel, hence the penitent state of mind. This should be some food for thought as to what is the absolute motivation here.

Up until yesterday you were just going full speed with your Djokovic defense, and then this 360 degree turn, after what I perceive to be some favorable posts between grendel and yourself. I am wondering if this is really a penitent heart, a mere coincidence, or just a ploy to ingratiate yourself to grendel. I am speechless and somewhat confused.

To be truthful, I have had enough of your Djokovic lobbying, so much so, that last evening I decided to write a post to you about my anger. I dug out 2 posts of yours that were responsible for reinforcing the vicious attacks against Zola, Ryan, Tejuz and myself, from Djok’s fans and the Djok “Serbian” fans. I intended to use those posts to remind you of your statements. I felt that if I were to continue posting then I had to inform you of this anger that is uppermost in my mind.

Because of those sanctimonious posts from you we were literally put through a living “hell.”
Your posts were so very effective, so much so, that Branimir, one of Djok’s Serbian fans, complimented you on your stand for Djokovic against us. Subsequently, those attacks were not only reinforced but multiplied. It seemed that everybody and his brother, so to speak, were firing non-stop cannons at us.

I am positive that you understood what repercussions your actions evoked, because you posted some comments to the tune that you did not want to be lumped together with Branimir or Ryan. The harm was already done and despite the horrible, malicious posts, you still pressed on with your Djokovic defense/lobbying.

Your subsequent posts became rhetorical because I had mentioned to you about 3 weeks ago that our dicussion ended. However, that was not the case with you, you still kept posting, ignoring the fact that we have a right to our opinions, and you should not have intervened. You claimed you were going to leave us “to shred Djokovic to pieces” and hoped that we would “have fun” doing so. However, you still continued.

From the theme of your posts it seemed that you took our comments as a personal assault on you and it became an obsession with you. Hence, you moved from defending Djokovic’s behavior to his match play and you now have an ongoing discussion about the Djokovic-Federer semifinal match, from the first ball served to the percent of first serves and the depth of his ground strokes, hence his lack of unforced errors. You have become so confused that you don’t remember what you stated from your prior posts. About an hour ago I mentioned to you that you made a comment about Djokovic’s lack of unforced errors. Your rebuttal was that you stated something different. I found your post and I posted it back to you.

Jane, I am confused, I have no idea what’s your problem. You remind me of those “lobbyists” or “the save the earth” environmentalists. It seems to me that you have to find a cause to debate.

As I stated in my opening remarks in this post that I am angry, that’s putting it mildly, I am hurt that you could be so vicious to Zola, Ryan, Tejuz (in a small way) and myself. I also don’t think you have even a vague idea of what hell you have put us through by your grandstanding for Djokovic. Anyway, be that as it may, I just hope your acknowledgement of your criticisms of Federer are truly from a penitent hert and not from your desire to be on good terms with grendel.

February 11th, 2008 at 10:18 pm

Zola:

You stated: “Actually thinking about “brushing the lines”, maybe Nalbandian gave the recipe on how to beat Fed. Although I am still not convinced that Djoko is as good as Nalbandian, but that might be the tactic. I still think it should be harder to pull that off against a healthy Fed who moves as he usually does.

One more thing I know from federer, not many players could beat him two times in a row!”

I don’t think Nalby would share his “recipe” for beating Fed with Djok. I would think that Nalby would want that glory for himself. He could probably share this precious info with some of his fellow Argentine players if they are in Fed’s half of the draw.

You are correct about palyers beating him 2 times in a row with the exception of Nalby. Their H2H is 8-8. Canas had 2 in a row and then the next time Fed just plastered him all over the court.

As I stated previously, I will be rooting for Fed, for a number of reasons, the next time he plays against Djok.

February 11th, 2008 at 10:32 pm

Zola.. that was well put.

Only difference is i like Fed’s tennis a lil bit more. Nadal seemed to me like a one-dimensional player (just as Fed put it before) but he did proves us wrong… and we had to accept it grudgingly that he was very good at wimbledon 2006 and 2007. I like his attitude.. but sometimes i didnt like the way he takes his time to return to his service line. But then, i still accept that compared to the numerous ball-bouncing by Djoker. With Nadal we atleast know that he always takes time for all his serves and opponents know when to get ready to return the serves. Whereas when Djoker is bouncing his ball.. service is already in progress and opponents have to be ready for the return. But they end up standing on their toes, bending their back and ready to pounce on serve, for a long time.. and obviously its going to affect them physically as well. I HATE that aspect of Djokovic’s game.

Other than that.. i dont find anything in his game exciting to watch.. except for his backhand.. which is on par with Safin or Nalbandian.

February 11th, 2008 at 10:34 pm

Von,
I did not mean giving the recipe literally. But the way he played and won Fed ( twice in a row), I think a coach or a good tennis playes can take many notes.

I have seen Jane posting here for a long time and she always tried to be impartial. I was surprised by her defense of Djoko, but it might be because she did not like the way those were put.

Tejuz,
I think Rafa is aware of the time he is taking between the points. He has quite a routine. But I think the way he played even some of his opponents appreciated having more time to catch their breath.As you said, with bouncing balls, it is like a trick and can be annoying to some players.But more than Djoko I am mad at the umpires. If they give warnings, the players have to oblige and there will not be so many disputes about the issue. I am amazed that an umpire can give Davydenko warning for lack of effort but can’t give Djoko an overtime warning.

All in all if someone is relying on tricks to win a match, that cannot be a sign of great confidence and since people are not stupid, they will start complaining after a few times.

February 11th, 2008 at 11:23 pm

Tejuz,
I think peter Bodo once wrote about Djoko and his “trunk rotation”. That is a good part of his game. The way he can put his weight behind a ground stroke.

February 11th, 2008 at 11:24 pm

Tejuz:

You stated: “Whereas when Djoker is bouncing his ball.. service is already in progress and opponents have to be ready for the return. But they end up standing on their toes, bending their back and ready to pounce on serve, for a long time.. and obviously its going to affect them physically as well..”

This is exactly why Tsonga complained to the umpire and why people were angry at the AO. The umpire should have asserted his authority in that match. He should have spoken to Djokovic, and also requested that the crowd be silent. Instead he did nothing. Tsonga was exasperated and could not concentrate on his game. His frustration got the better of him and we all know the end.

In the Davis cup singles match Djok played against Davy, I don’t know if you noticed but Davy was losing his patience with Djok’s bouncing of the ball. Davy was muttering to himself and pointing at Djok.

What is very confusing to the players with regard to Djok’s ball bouncing is that his ball bounces are not systematic. In some games he’ll bounce 15 times, next saerve 20 times, or 24 times on other serves. This catches his opponents off-guard, frustrates them and they lose the point. Something should be done, but the question is, who’s going to do it.

February 11th, 2008 at 11:31 pm

Zola: You stated:

“I did not mean giving the recipe literally. But the way he played and won Fed ( twice in a row), I think a coach or a good tennis playes can take many notes.”

I understand, but I am thinking that Nalby couldn’t want anyone to figure that out because he’ll probably want to be the only one to beat Fed. The players’ coaches should study Fed’s game more in-depth, because their players really need some assistance on how to beat Fed. I think Djok’s coach has figured out something.

You stated: “I have seen Jane posting here for a long time and she always tried to be impartial. I was surprised by her defense of Djoko, but it might be because she did not like the way those were put.”

I don’t know what to think, and I don’t understand why it was taken so personally. What I do know is how much unhappiness it caused me, and it was so bad that I wanted to quit posting. If it weren’t for your kindness, I would have done so. Thank you.

February 11th, 2008 at 11:51 pm

Von/Zola..

Am sure something will be done about that ball-bouncing.. especially now that he is a AO champion.

Agree with Zola.. that it looks like trick to off-put the opponents rythm and timing. That and some of his other attributes like his cockiness, retiring between matches, taking time-outs etc . really makes me not like him at all..

February 11th, 2008 at 11:54 pm

Tejuz: You stated:

“Agree with Zola.. that it looks like trick to off-put the opponents rythm and timing. That and some of his other attributes like his cockiness, retiring between matches, taking time-outs etc . really makes me not like him at all..”

Of course it’s a trick. If it was a habit, it would have a consistent number of times he bounces the ball. He stated that when he gets nervous, he does it more. So that explains it — he gets nervous when he’s losing so then he brings on the tricks to put off his opponent. I even see him sometimes, bounce, then toss the ball and let it fall, and then bounces all over again. I heard a few commentators say that they find it annoying and feel it’s a trick, how much annoying more will it be for his opponent. It will catch up to him.

I was looking at his stats for different injury/medical time-outs, he had more than any other player. Something like 22-25 for each diffierent body part.

I guess I had better shut up before I get myself into some trouble.

February 12th, 2008 at 12:29 am

Von,
I think the strategy is different to the way a player executes the shots. Many players might know they have to play as deep as possible, or play angles, but doing that is the actual art and that is where Nalby becomes the master. I am almost glad that he has other hobbies than tennis! When he is in the zone, he is very dangerous!

I know some of those comments were not fun to read. But Jane was not impolite.
To me those rude and racist comments reflected more on the personality of those who posted them. Seriously I was not bothered by any of them at all and nor be should you.
You should only be upset if you have done something wrong and stating your opinion is not doing something wrong. I am glad you decided to stay.

well, can’t wait for Rotterdam!

February 12th, 2008 at 12:41 am

Zola:

“I am glad you decided to stay. Thank you. You’ve been a very helpful.

well, can’t wait for Rotterdam!” Same here. There are a lot of Top 20 players in that tournament. I hope that Tennis Channel is going to broadcast some of it. Sometimes they show the quarters, semis, and the finals. I can only hope.

Looking at my statement about Top 20 players, I just realized how many of them were once in the top 10 and quite a few of some of the lower ranked players were GS winners. That’s how tennis keeps evolving. One day you’re on top, a few months later, you’re way down the ladder, holding on by your fingernails.

February 12th, 2008 at 1:06 am

Zola, I wouldn’t say my son is rebelling against me. That may come, of course. He is never influenced in picking his favourites. But his hostility to Federer is just knee jerk reaction to the man’s annoying (from his point of view) success- I understand it well enough, since I am exactly the same, just a different caste…..My experience (I don’t know how common this is), is that once you dislike a player, you start discovering, and probably inventing, all sorts of other reasons why you should dislike him. It’s a slippery slope and not conducive to happy watching time……

February 12th, 2008 at 8:23 am

tennis fan Says:

in response to your criticism of my not being consistent about the tirade directed at Mr. djokovic,let me inform you that i postedblogs only one time. You mention how democratic countries allow for freedom of expression, so please allow me mine and i do not care for the condescending names directed at me. you state that small minded, dense people revert to name calling to support their logic.Your use of expletives such as NOB,PRICK,S.O.B CRAP in your blog to me urges me to reply, go to the largest mirror in your home.What does the reflection tell you son? As a clinician in the mental health field i suggest you take a chill pill and as a sports fan i maintain we can critique players playing prowness without denegrating their their ethniticity or persona. as to the jostling between some of the Tsonga supporters and the Djokovic box, i understood some lewd comments were aimed at Novak and thus angry words were exchanged. To bad , and not condoned for either side. At any rate,I do not support mean spirited comments from you or the bloggers that root for Djokovic. If you are a true tennis fan and dride Djokovic for what you call arrogance and cockiness, then show some sportsman like conduct and unbiased reflections because according to you this kid winning anything is an abomination. I am perplexed how such a untalented kid ranks so high in the world.I just do not get it!

bravo “tennis fan !

and thank you !

February 12th, 2008 at 8:31 am

Marko, most of us here never said Djokovic winning was an abomination. He deserved the AO Open crown for the way he played the tournament. But most of us here just dont like his cockiness, arrogance, his ball-bouncing, his imitations, time-outs and retirements. Same can be said of other players who do the same.. but currently Djokovic is more prominent cuz he is a Grand slam winner and he seems to be having more of such ugly qualities than any other players. Many people loved him when he first came in just as they love any new comer who are underdogs and are like a breath of fresh air against top players. Almost everybody is willing to overlook this newcomer’s bad habits cuz they want the different faces at the top of hierarchy. But now he is no more a new comer and has become a constant fixture in important matches. So naturally all his qualities get extra attention and most of the people get turned-off by them. He better improve atleast some of them.. else he will sure have a hard time… especially when he is going through a slump period.

February 12th, 2008 at 9:06 am

Zola,

I apologize to you if you felt this way you seem like a decent guy…You root for you guy, I root for mine, but respect for both of them

Von said,
This woman has been harassing Zola and myself for close to 2 weeks

February 12th, 2008 at 9:32 am

Von,

I have nothing to say you. Everyone who read this can see who you are… Nole will do the talk himself!!!!

February 12th, 2008 at 9:37 am

Lilly, no need to apologize to me. I don’t remember reading anyhting rude from you. and as I said, those sort of comments don’t bother me at all. and btw…I am a gal!

I think you and Von should put this behind….

February 12th, 2008 at 9:50 am

I just read that Haas had a shoulder surgery and just lost in his first tournament. Coming back to play after 3 months , wow! It took me two months to get over an sprained ankle. Guess that’s why I am not playing professional tennis!

Grendel,
that’s funny. Hate him because of his success? I have to admit, one reason I liked Nadal was that he challenged Fed, who I did not like. He was too cold. But I still like to watch him play. I think I started appreciating Fed’s tennis during their Shanghai 2006 match. Rafa played very well, but Fed came up with those backhands from outside the court and as much as I did not like him, I thought he deserved to win.

February 12th, 2008 at 10:07 am

tejuz:

please notice that all this suppose to be COMMENTS to the article, and not a sort of forum.
With all respect, we want to comment article , not to involve with some argue and discussion with you or Van ( who is self-proclaimed judge of everything and everybody here)
Post your comment once or twice and that’s it.

No more arguing, please.We are not here because of you gays, but because of this article, please understand that.

And forgive me my english, I’m just simple person from little country in the balkans.

best regards

Marko

February 12th, 2008 at 10:13 am

Marko,

My last comment was in response to your previous post and not this article.. and ur post was not in response to the article either…

Anyway.. i dont wanna argue with you, cuz am petty sure i will only get back ‘SHIT’ from you.

February 12th, 2008 at 7:05 pm

tennis fan says: dear Von, i have read some of the earlier blogs and i see that your comments were not directed at me. Therefore i regret censoring you for that,however i stand by my obsevations that some people take their criticisims to a personal extreme.I just could not fathom how some people took issue with one player in particular. Comments about hating himand debasing his tennis skills seem so silly and trite. Iwould suggest to the people who are offended by his impersonations to petion the sportscasters who constantly beseech him to perform them. I ,watched one such episode where he was haranged to do his impersonations and he tried to begg off and finally agreed to do Sharapova because he said he knew she was amused by it and he did,nt want to offend anyone. So let it rest already.Also Big Sam went on at great length to expound the enormous contributions the BRITS. bestowed on the world . It would seem that they invented every sport from tennis to tiddley-winks.Well as a Canadian, i could expound on our hockey superiority but the world is catching up to us. Such is the nature of sport. That is why I can not understand why some people like BIG SAM who like to toot their own horn begrudge this kid his due. HE IS THE FIRST to bring this honor to his country, a tiny country that has limited resourses. As i stated before, Andre Agassi was a cocky flamboyant,irreverant player as a young man. He grew upand is a true symbol of a gentlman and tennis star as any so give this kid a break. Tha ts it for me,I,m glad some people are revising their out looks and prejudices and lets enjoy the game and realize all these guys are infinitely talented or they wouldn,t be anywhere near the top ranking in the world

February 15th, 2008 at 5:20 pm

tennis fan says:

“dear Von, i have read some of the earlier blogs and i see that your comments were not directed at me. Therefore i regret censoring you for that,however i stand by my obsevations that some people take their criticisims to a personal extreme.”

Your apology is well-received. However, your first post to me fueled even more personal attacks on three (3) other posters and myself from those who fall into the category (as mentioned in your post)of “some people take their criticisms to a personal extreme.” We have been harassed, provoked and verbally abused, and another poster and myself are referred to as “gays.” Not to mention the many rules and regulations that we were instructed to follow, bearing in mind that these people are the abusers, not us. Please tell me what name or label should I place on these people?

You stated that you are a mental health clinician, well, I have a degree in psychology, however, I decided against this field as a profession and pursued law instead. What I am trying to say, that I am aware of how bitter, viscious and tormented the human mind can become, as is demonstrated or evidenced by the personal assault on my three (3) fellow posters and myself. If you were to go back to juszt 2 days ago, you’ll see that our rights to freedom of speech/press have been grossly violated, coupled with provocation and abuse. I refer to these people as “parasites”, who thrive from stripping other people of every vestige of human decency to fuel their hate and displaced anger. As you know, one of the bench-marks of psychology that’s relevant to such behavior, hinges upon the fact that in order for some people to feel self-worth or exalted, they need to tear down or ridicule others to justifiably attain that degree of exaltation. They lack self-worth. What is your clincal terminology or diagnosis for such behavior, and what would the prognosis be for these people?

You stated: “Also Big Sam went on at great length to expound the enormous contributions the BRITS bestowed on the world. ..” His name is “big Dave”, and he tooted his “horn” just to inform others that the British have achieved much and contributed much to society today. That being the case, it’s not necessary for people from other countries to behave in an uncivilized manner when they have achieved some recognition or success. In other words, the Britsh have been there, done that, with quiet dignity, and have moved on, so should others, thus, the exalted attitude should be discarded. No one is desirous of depriving them of their entitlement to celebrate but do so with less fanfare and, irreverence and more self-respect.

I am surprised that as a Canadian you do not feel close to the British since their Queen was your Queen also, and most of your country’s laws and customs are based on British Law. For example, their Attorneys or Barristers-at-law, dress similarly to the British when they are in a Court of Law, and many or most of their laws are based on British Laws.

From the tone of your posts I get the impression that you agree or condone Djokovic’s and his family’s behavior. Also, in my opinion, it seems that you rationalize his/their behavior as “entitlement” because of the size of their country and his being the FIRST to bestow such an honor on that country. Please note, that those of us who criticize him are not at all against their celebration, but we do feel however, that there is absolutely no need for him to make such inflammatory statements about his fellow tennis players. Some of us also feel that before making such bravado statements he should have waited a little longer to prove himself as one who has the mettle, endurance and consistency to wear a champion’s crown. For instance, since winning the AO, he has retired in Davis Cup, thus, diminishing his country’s hopes/chances of winning this year. Further, he was knocked out of the second round at Marseille. Truthfully, would you say that’s proving his mettle? Additionally, the remarks that were hurled at the incumbent AO champion coupled with the “thumbs down” sign of his father’s toward Federer, and his mother’s arrogant statement: “The King is Dead”, woudn’t you now say were a bit too premature or arrogant?

The remarks of the posters who dislike his behavior or whatever that they dislike about him, now seems somwhat justified, don’t you think? The question still looms as to whether Djokovic could have beaten a healthy Federer at the AO. In my opinion, I feel that these posters questions can only be answered when, and if, a healthy Djokovic plays and beats a healthy Federer. There now exists the question of whether we are ever going to see a healthy Djokovic and what would be his answer to the tennis world if Federer were to win? And further, would his mother’s arrogant statement that “The King is Dead” become moot?

In view of the foregoing, I feal that even though our comments might appear to be harsh and/or cruel, one could only agree that there is some truth to these comments and that the abusive, rude and crude behavior from his fans on this Tennis-X site is unjustifiable.

Sorry for the lengthy post. If I am criticized for this, I am apologizing right now.

February 15th, 2008 at 9:05 pm

tennis fan says: Dear Von, I read in an earlier blog your references to the war in the former Yugoslavia and realized that there is a bit of xenophobia strewn about here.As a person who has direct contacts to some Canadian experts such as General MACKENZIE-KING your comments about the the people of that country border on bigotry.I suggest you read Scott Taylors books on the subject.He is a Pulitzer Prize winner who spent time there as a independent journalist. I regret that your bias clouds your rational.As a person who has travelled extensivly and spent time in this country i saw first hand how regioal conflicts can be manipulated by others to their advantage. thje meddling of the Nato countries has destablized this region and will end up biting them in the ass to put it crudely. I allow you the right to dislike some oneand offer your opinions about tennis, however targeting people as akin to nazis and the like is just racism and has no place in these forums. I am dissapointed that the great game of tennis is sullied by such ridiculous bigotry .From now on I will be watching the lobs on the tennis courts not the lobs of insults traded on this blog. ….. respectfully someone who agrees that you have the right to disagreebut in a civilized manner

February 16th, 2008 at 1:23 pm

tennis fan:

I only answered your post to end this problem of the misinterpretation of my post, however, again this has been repeated. I am not going to dispute your remarks, it is an exercise in futility at this point and time. I would like to move on. My rebuttal is only going to add more fuel to the fire. The problem that now exists will end with me which is something I wanted to do over 3 weeks ago, however, some posters do not want to move on. I will not make mention of this subject again and thank you for your time.

February 16th, 2008 at 4:26 pm