Tennis-X Notes: Federer in for Davis Cup, ATP Thumbs Up for Alcohol

by Staff | April 22nd, 2008, 4:59 pm
  • 29 Comments

ATP HAPPY HOUR: The ATP has reverse its rule instituted in 2004 that banned ads from alcohol companies on players’ clothes. The ban on gambling and tobacco companies remains in effect — for now.
ADHEREL
I WON ONE MA: American Alexandra Stevenson defeated Russian Alina Jidkova in the first round at Charleston, her first singles win in a tour-level main draw in over five years.

WE WANT TO GAMBLE: According to a report from the Austrian news agency APA, online gaming company Bwin Interactive Entertainment AG has filed a defamation lawsuit against the French Tennis Federation (FFT) with a Paris court. The Austrian firm filed the motion in response to statements made from the FFT that Bwin posed an ethical risk for the sport of tennis — the FFT is attempting to ban online gambling on the French Open before the start of this year’s event.

NOW HE CAN JOIN THE OTHER PLAYERS AND TOURNAMENTS SUING THE ATP: Last week Croatian Mario Ancic officially became a graduate of the Law School of the University of Split. “When I was going to high school with childhood friends I was always good in school and I wanted to see if I could do it,” said Ancic, who began the law program at the end of 2002. “It was a lot of work and I always wanted to play tennis but this is why I decided to continue and it was a huge day for me yesterday.”


RARE DAVIS CUP APPEARANCE: Roger Federer says he will likely play Davis Cup for Switzerland again Belgium in September: “The chances are very good that I will play. I’m proud the team could win over Belarus without me. It’s a great effort. I’d love to get Switzerland back into the World Group. I’d say my decision is pretty much taken.”


You Might Like:
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Fedal Wars: In The GOAT Debate, Are Nadal Fans Rooting Against Federer To Win His First Davis Cup?
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29 Comments for Tennis-X Notes: Federer in for Davis Cup, ATP Thumbs Up for Alcohol

Dr. Death Says:

Since Von does not wish to take the bait and stir the pot (I think you missed one of my posts for you on an old string), let’s change this around a bit.

“I am proud my team could win over … without me…” Andy Roddick.

What would the posts be like? Just a question. The Doctor is not trying to start anything (much).

Zola – did you ever see my note to you on Gasquet and the backhand?


Von Says:

Dr. Death:

“I am proud my team could win over … without me…” Andy Roddick.”

I saw that statement, and put it on the back burner to chill.

anyway, talk about being smug — it’s that puffed up pride that’s got him in the sad state of affairs in which he finds himself. I can’t believe anyone could think of him/herself in such a mighty way. I just wonder though how the Swiss team managed all those years before his NIBS made his grand entrance with tympanny, cymbal, pomp and circumstance. LOL.

“What would the posts be like? Just a question. The Doctor is not trying to start anything (much).”

Much sneering, jeering and pitiful stabs. But, our Andy would not be so presumptuous as to say anything like that. It just makes me laugh that everytime an opportunity presents itself, he starts churning the greatness factor, and leaps up and grabs it in mid-air. He should try that with the overhead lobs. :) Serious insecurity problems — somewhat like Nixon said in the Watergate proceedings, remember, “I am your President”. In his case, I am the ….(fill in the blanks). More of a self-reminder than anything else. The newest great wonder of the world, No. 8. Now you’ve just stirred up the pot, and I’m going to have to take the heat. But, been there, done that.

On which thread did you post to me? Fess up, no suspense game playing. :)


t-man Says:

U americans are too hilarius.. :). U seem to have the presumption that U are and should be the pinnacle of everything, and when this is not the case, as in tennis for years to come, then one can practically feel U people somehow wiggling about and trying to get around the fact. Relax, let it go Luke, breath in, and enjoy the show.

I’ve been reading this blog for a while and think it goes for good entertainment(Though somebody should put a SOMEkind of leash on this Randall guy :o), but I just couldnt help myself this time.

If I may point out a small fact regarding Fed: The guy has put up the numbers to the point that, even if hes style of play wouldnt out of a tennis coaching view, be an example of gutty, widemoving optimization of his somewhat “skinny” frame, U should listen to him more when he talks about tennis and other players. U would think he knows what hes talking about huh? :).
Like the time someone was seeing red about the comment in Dubai on Murray when Fed had lost, and he pointed out that he wasnt too impressed with Murrays game diversitywise, takin into account that Murray is aming for the top ten.
I’m pre-tty sure Murray is clever enough and took something out of that comment.
Another point of view, put yourself in Feds place, and just for a split second imagine that he really thought the way he said, instead of just being a sourpuss(wery common in exceptional people :), how would U go about it, mumble some cliche like, “He was better today..?”

“I am proud my team could win over … without me…” Andy Roddick.”

Stop comparing Andy with Fed, Andy is one of the guys, Fed was and still is EXEPTIONAL – deal with it :).

Ok I’m maybe grinding it in a little bit here ;). But anyway, dont be such sorry asses, give credit when its due and take a look in the mirror every once in a while, I’m sure U can handle it.

And on the other side, have to give U for the passion and grit though, thats a talent few can match. And the US #1 goes as a great example. Take Roddicks pressconf after a certain AusOpen semiwupping by you know who; mainly hilarious viewing but something still sticks out: the guy has just taken the beating of his life – and he goes, I’m gonna keep going at it, and hes for real too. Beautiful stuff.

Love ya,

ps.
sorry for the misspellings, my english might be a little bit rusty


Dr. Death Says:

T man – ok the spelling and you can’t be all bad if you can appreciate Roddick’s A.O. press conference.

Secondly, we are not all Americans. I think a lot of people appreciate Fed’s tennis ability, but still enjoy making derogatory comments. The current hero on the pedestal has to take the shots in the modern world. The implication that we are, despite the passports in our pockets, asses because Federer is not our personal hero is a little strong. That said, thank you for taking the bait; just what I was hoping for. Come visit the blog again soon.

Von – the string is gone. You were chiding me about egging you on etc. I am sure I will get another chance.


I like tennis bullies not tennis sissies Says:

— What would the posts be like? Just a question. The Doctor is not trying to start anything (much). —

tennisx would have headlined their newest entry RODDICK IS THE UGLY AMERICAN.

but it is Federer who says arrogant things and because he is european he is “modest gentleman” rotfl!


Dr. Death Says:

Just noticed that it took Federer 3 sets to dispose of Ramirez 6-1, 3-6, 7-6.

What does that tell us?


Dr. Death Says:

Just noticed that it took Federer 3 sets to dispose of Ramirez.

What does that tell us?


Von Says:

t-man:

“U americans are too hilarius.. . U seem to have the presumption that U are and should be the pinnacle of everything, and when this is not the case,..”

When I was a young child I was told to set a high standard for my ideals, then if I fell short, well, at least it was just a rung lower on the ladder. I suppose that’s what “we” Americans do best. Shoot for the stars. However, this thread/comment was about Federer’s smugness. Only a big-headed idiot would make that remark about his surprise that his team was able to pull off a win without him. That’s too much smugness, don’t you think? He’s not God, — he’s on the pinnacle, however, as one gets to the utmost slimest part of the pinnacle, unless it’s very strong, it will start cracking in different areas, and that’s what’s happening to your hero. Don’t fret about the English, I like your style; and most of all I love being American, Andy Roddick, and apple pie. Yummy.


Seraphim Says:

You sound a bit smug Von, or is that what you call a high standard.

You just described yourself to a tee, and nastily so. You responded EXACTLY the way t-man knows “some” Americans act like.

You can apply everything you’ve ever written about Fed fans being the way some of us are, to yourself tenfold, being a Roddick fan and one of “those” Americans.

Disgusting. And you have a child? Peace be still.


Dr. Death Says:

Comments interesting to me living my Life on Mars. Do I sense political beliefs coming into play here?

What in the name of Elvis does being a Fed or a Roddick fan have to do with being an ugly American? Most (but not all) of what I read especially from Von has to do with the style of play of these different players and where they are playing v.v. their personal bests.

The Doctor’s office is always available for therapy and private consultation. Peace through tennis and then perhaps peace can be still.


Von Says:

Seraphim:

I wouldn’t envision such uglyness emanating from you considering the meaning of your name. Just goes to show how hypocritical some of us can be, though. When did I attack Fed fans? I commented on Fed’s smugness. Also, did I mention I have a child? I stated ‘when I was a child’. I’d say you’ve failed the test on comprehension. I was merely responding to the post written by t-man, who has taken a position against Americans and Andy Roddy, as a defense for Federer’s smugness.

Do yourself a favor. Get hold of a professor who teaches comprehension and try out some courses. After that, then you can again read my post, and when you have done so, comprehended its meaning, and realize that you’ve made a complete ‘idiot’ of yourself, then we’ll probably be able to discuss the subject matter of the thread, which concerns Federer’s statement and his ‘big-headed’ belief that he’s the ‘Swiss messiah’, who was sent to save the Swiss team and ensure their place in the World Group. Now hop to it!!

I will NOT respond to anymore of your posts or those who are just waiting on the sidelines to attack Americans. Take two aspirin (because you’re just hurting) and call a doctor. Go on now.


Dr. Death Says:

Stop with the prescriptions! Taking money out of my pocket. I have more effective meds.

Don’t stop answering the posts. (pot stirring)

Pleased to meet you; hope you know my name.


Von Says:

Dr. Death:

***Stop with the prescriptions! Taking money out of my pocket. I have more effective meds.
Don’t stop answering the posts. (pot stirring)
Pleased to meet you; hope you know my name.***

Pleased to meet you too. Do you know that you are just incorrigible? Aren’t you ashamed of yourself? :) I fell for this trap, hook, line and sinker. You didn’t catch me on the other thread, but this one. Bummer!! I’ve been waking up early to see the MC tourney matches, and have been averaging 3-4 hours sleep per night, so I’ve not been thinking. I can’t believe I fell for this scheme of yours. Lord help me.

What’s your prescription? Some volts of electicity? Or, ‘If I had a hammer, I’d hammer …. (fill in the blanks). Stop laughing, I’m going to get you, ‘just you waight, Enery Iggins, just you waight … :)

“Don’t stop answering the posts. (pot stirring)”

Enough for me. Impossible to deal with one-tracked minds. What’s your preszcription —


Dr. Death Says:

There are many prescriptions and I did not put Seraphim up to it so by your own free will you answered. That said I enjoy seeing you take the bait. And those who are incorrigible are seldom ashamed.

I have meds of course; Xanax is quite good. Also there are special treatments currently being tested at Guantanamo Bay that could turn an angel into a devil.

“If I had a hammer, I would hammer me a forehand…”


Von Says:

“If I had a hammer, I would hammer me a forehand…” *** Ferrero got very ticked off at Nadal today, and hit a forehand to die for. The commentators stated that was the hardest forehand they had ever seen. I’m going to keep my distance from him.

You’re funny. LOL. Know what, there are some posters whom I have found to be very pleasant, and can at the same time, display shades of humor — you’re one of those, but don’t let that go to your head. :) I try to visualize people whom I have never met, and what they would look like, but I can’t seem to put a face on you. Maybe, in the future I’ll come up with an image. :)


Dr. Death Says:

Sorry I cant see those matches, but that would interfere with work any way.

I always blend into the background (except on the tennis court) so the face is hard to recognize. Just changed the hair so people have been walking right past me.


jane Says:

Von, Given the name, he’ll always be the Grim Reaper in my mind (no face, long black cloak, big cane, or racquet perhaps), albeit a funny one (which really is the best kind).


jane Says:

To a plain jane observer, what’s funny is the sequence of events: first the devil stirs the pot (pleased to meet you) and then the angels and seraphims attack – but not him – no, not the devil, just little ole Von with her sign at the Whitehouse steps. LOL.

If I were to begin inserting names here, who would play Hillary, Obama, McCain, Bush? Okay, that’s another ball of wax. But Dr. D did raise the spectre of politics so…


Von Says:

jane:

“Von, Given the name, he’ll always be the Grim Reaper in my mind (no face, long black cloak, big cane, or racquet perhaps), albeit a funny one (which really is the best kind).”

I did conjure up that image, but then I felt I was stereotyping and tried to find another, but sadly, alas, there’s not one to be found. My imaging is still incomplete.

______________

“..first the devil stirs the pot (pleased to meet you) and then the angels and seraphims attack but not him – no, not the devil, just little ole Von with her sign at the Whitehouse steps. LOL.”

Girl, never knew you were a playwright, but you just wrote the perfect scenario. However, you forgot the “‘cherubims,” ‘Raphael’ and ‘Michael’. Where are they? I bet they’ll be in this mix by tomorrow. Or, maybe, they’ll be smarter than, lil ole me, who can’t resist a bait. There’s only one problem though, the script got twisted around, instead of the characters following the script, which is about the Swiss’ remarks, they have decided to attack the Americans. And, now, enters, Hillary, Obama, McCain, and Bush, with the Air Force, Marines and the Navy to the defense. :) LOL. It’s hilarious, I’m pegged, on each thread, Pavlov’s Bell is arringging!! My name just has to appear and the attacks begin, even though my remarks are taken out of context. I love it!! :) :)

“The lady doth protest too much, methinks”.


Dr. Death Says:

The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn’t exist. And poof – just like that, he’s gone.


jane Says:

Yep, the usual suspects Dr. D. – a great line, that one.

Von,

methinks too.


Von Says:

jane:

“Von, methinks too.” ***Elaborate. Thanks.


jane Says:

Oh, sorry Von. I didn’t realize you meant you by “the lady”. But that’s a funny miscommunication because you are a protester when you believe in your cause! ;-)

I was referring more to the anger & vehement protests on some of these threads. It’s just tennis after all – there’s no need to call in the National Guard for a little lady with her poster board! LOL. We’re all entitled to our opinions right?

In sports, you win some; you lose some. Roger won today so many of his fans will be pleased. I’d’ve rather seen Nalby win but this is a good win for Roger. He needed it. It’ll give him a boost.

I’m looking more forward to the Djoko v. Sam and Rafa v. Ferrer quarters. Onward and upward then!


Von Says:

Jane:

“I was referring more to the anger & vehement protests on some of these threads. It’s just tennis after all – there’s no need to call in the National Guard for a little lady with her poster board! LOL. We’re all entitled to our opinions right?”

I’m glad you mentioned ‘a little lady”. Reading the posts it’s sometimes unimaginable the amount of men v. women on these threads and some behave in a manner unbecoming of supposedly “adult” men. The language at times is unbelievably vulgar, not to mention the name calling. But, I suppose different strokes for different folks. I’m from the old school of thought, even though I’m not that old, but times are changing.

“I’d’ve rather seen Nalby win but this is a good win for Roger. He needed it. It’ll give him a boost.”

I’m 50/50 on this, but just for the fact that I’d like to see a better ratio of ranking points, I’d like to see the lower ranked players win. Federer has had enough wins as far as I’m concerned. I suppose the National Guard will be after us now.


jane Says:

Yes, we are largely outnumbered here being of the female ilk. But what can you do? I still love tennis.

Well I agree, of course, that Fed has had enough and it’s time to share the wealth! :-) But that said, he is a pretty great player so if he plays better, he’s going to win. And he’s been kind of struggling so to see him come through is nice. I won’t feel that way when/if he beats Djokovic or Sam though. ;-)


Dr. Death Says:

Jane & Von:

Things are getting a little dicey on the other string for sure & you will note the Doctor has not been able to join in there to stir that pot (unfortunately).

Monte Carlo is showing us who are the premier players currently. Roger has announced his return to good health. The last two rounds of this tournament will set the stage for the rest of the clay season, but my gut says that at least three of the four lead actors are in play. From highlights only I really like how Nadal is playing and I think he makes a run at the # 1 spot this year.

We always have to leave room for someone to be on a streak. I think Murray has shown his colors as far as clay is concerned. Even the Times of London has made a negative comment or two.

Not being able to see these matches is a detriment to writing intelligently, but I will be in the U S for a couple of weeks soon and hope to see some action somewhere.


Von Says:

Dr. Death:

“Things are getting a little dicey on the other string for sure & you will note the Doctor has not been able to join in there to stir that pot (unfortunately).”

Yes, it sure is. It ruined my day, and made me lose my swseet sense of humor and gusto. I absolutely abhor confrontations. In a court of law it’s Ok but on a private/personal level, I’m a different person.

So, you’ll be visiting our fair land, eh? The weather is just wonderful now and will be that way for the next 4 months or so. I hope you don’t get caught in the rainy season. You’ll be able to see the US Open series, approx. 5-6 tournaments and you know who will be playing. He’ll be defending his title in Washington, Legg Mason tourney. Of course, there’s a big appearance fee in the offing also. I’ll watch for you in the crowd. Won’t be difficult picking you out, — black cloak, et al. :)


Dr. Death Says:

Large black hooded sweat shirt actually and sunglasses of course. Must change with the times. (I wear whites generally for tennis being a traditionalist at heart.)


Von Says:

I hope you have some other clothes besides sweats — you’ll need a portable air conditioner. Stay with the light colours, and I love white also.

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