Nadal, Federer, Roddick Remain Scary-Good in Paris

I don´t belive rafa will survive this time…

October 31st, 2008 at 9:18 am

Mr. Randall: is it fair to say that David Nalbandian is one of the top 2 players in the world, indoors? (#1 being Federer?)

Nalby is nowhere near the top 5 on any other surface, but indoors the guy is a beast. Why?

October 31st, 2008 at 10:21 am

Nalby is on form today – he’s like a Jekyll and Hyde isn’t he? Today he is “scary good!!” So far Murray’s maintaining his cool but he seems a bit slumpy – and the serve isn’t really working for him at its best. But Nalby – phew!

——–

Hi Andrew, if I may interject, I know a number of people have speculated on this board that Nalbandian may be so good indoors as he doesn’t have to deal with the elements. He’s doing a nice job at the net today.

Nalbandian, if he applied himself, I think could be great on any surface; he’s gone deep on grass at Wimbledon in the past, for example.

October 31st, 2008 at 10:48 am

dadvydenko had a good hard court win over nadal earlier this year at miami. don’t know if he still has that magic raquet or not…..

nadal looked good yesterday but not blistering. monfils should have broken at least once. what is infuriating about playing nadal though is that you may get to love -40 with him but for some reason he then snaps back into reality and pulls of some killer serves/shots.

someone on this site must have some stats on this: is he one of the toughest players to break?

the ass picking is really quite funny – what a strange tic to develop.

and what is it with tennis players and layers of baby fuzz all over their face? seems to be the new trend. makes them all look grimy in my opinion.

October 31st, 2008 at 10:49 am

Man, watch that match makes me wish Nalbandian could play like that all the time. He’s good when he’s good!

andrea thanks for your “live” commentaries. It’s interesting to hear the views of someone there (she writes, green with envy).

Re: stats – Roddick, Djoko, Fed are top three on break points saved ( Rafa’s 6th). Key for Rafa’s serve are two stats, I think – he is number 1 for second serve points won (followed by Fed and Djoko), and Rafa is 3rd for 1st serve %, so those two things really help. And then there are the intangibles, like placement, spin etc.

Anyway – enjoy, looks like you’ll be in for more exciting matches today.

October 31st, 2008 at 11:03 am

Federer out of the tournament with a stiff back. Now that puts the cat among the jolly old pigeons, so far as Shanghai is concerned, does it not? I mean, if Roddick beats Tsonga, then he plays Blake in the semis. Blake will need to win to get to Shanghai..

When was the last time Fed had to withdraw due to injury? Is Father Time catching up with him? Let me tell you, do what you will, this gentleman may not be avoided…….

October 31st, 2008 at 11:19 am

good job by Nalby today, even though he beat one of my faves, but murray’s hectic schedule has somewhat caught up with him, but kudos to nalby for his excellent match play.

Yesterday, I mentioned if Murray played as badly as he played against verdasco, he’d lose today. I also felt if Nadal plays as badly as he did against Monfils, he’ll lose today. Nadal had more lives than a cat yesterday, oh now to think of it, a cat has nine lives and that’s exactly how many times he could have been broken by Monfils, but he got luck — oh those 9 lives. One of my predictions came through, let’s see about the other.

Those of you who followed baseball dring Reggie Jackson’s era will remember he was referred to as ‘Mr. October”. I think, without a doubt, Nalbandian should be dubbed “Mr. Cctober”. he absolutely shines in the Fall.
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Andrew: It’s always been my thinking that if Nalbandian played as consistently as Fed played, Fed would not have been as successful. Additionally, Nadal wouldn’t be as dominant on clay, because Nalby is not intimdated by Nalbandian as Fed is and nalby is very good on clay. I’m sorry to say this Fed/Nadal fans, but that’s how I see it. Nalby has every stroke in the book and makes it look as effortlessly as Fed. Nalby can neutralize Nadal’s speed as well as his net play. He’s a real dream to watch.
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andrea:

Now that you’ve seen A-rod up close and personal, do you still dislike him as much as you’ve done in the past? :P Just asking, as he has the type of personality that grows on people.

October 31st, 2008 at 11:20 am

Yes, sorry guys. I cannot go today with my match against James. My back is giving me some problems. Nothing serious, no mono either so no need for speculation. It’s my first time ever with retiring or not playing before a match. So this is not something I wanted.

I’m happy for James. He’s a real nice guy. Now he can qualify for Shanghai by beating his close friend Roddick or Tsonga tomorrow. I wish them all the best.

I’ll see you all in Shanghai. Now I have to go shopping with Mirka. Don’t worry, she’ll be carrying the bags this time.

October 31st, 2008 at 11:29 am

….this sucks… I hope its nothing too serious.

October 31st, 2008 at 11:36 am

Goodness gracious me, I can’t believe this — Fed reitred? He’s never done this before, oh wow! Anyway, I was secretly wishing/hoping for James to make it to Shanghai this year, which I feel could be his last opportunity, and Fed’s retirement has given him some life. I would have liked to see them square off against each other again because of the Olympics results. I’m sure James will take this walkover in lieu of a battle, any day. sorry Fed fans, I know you’re bitterly disappointed, but you have the TMC to look forward to, and this early exit from Paris will give Fed some extra time to recuperate from whatever ails him.

October 31st, 2008 at 11:46 am

Thank God, Nalby showed a glimpse of some of his ability here at Paris !

October 31st, 2008 at 11:47 am

Sean Randall:

You’re famous! Your blog has been sighted by Fed. I clicked on that that link and it took me to the RF.com. Does that mean you mean Fed actually reads these blogs? This is the first time I’ve ever visited Fed’s website. Way to go Sean. Oh wow!!

October 31st, 2008 at 11:50 am

Jane,like you,I thought Murray/Nalbandian terrifically entertaining. Two unique artists of the game plying their crafts, probing each other in constantly inventive fashion.

You could argue that today, Nalbandian outMurrayed Murray. In those long, teasing rallies – which Murray generally wins – Nalbandian tended to come out on top. Nalbandian’s drop shots were far better and more imaginative than Murray’s – Murray, who loves to drop shot. And on return of serve, one of Murray’s huge strengths, Nalbandian was immeasurably superior.

However, as you say Jane, Murray’s serve was only sporadically working. He seemed just a little weary, and has clearly not been at his best in this tournament. Now he gets a good rest, it will be intriguing to see him play Nalbie in Shanghai, which could well happen if Nalbandian wins this tournament.

One last comment. One department in which Murray is clearly superior to Nalbandian is speed. Murray is lightening fast, Nalbandian only average. But this, too, only highlights what a wonderful tennis player Nalbandian is; he has such an instinctive sense of where the ball is that he kind of glides to it – not a la Federer, all grace and fluidity – no, Nalbandian glides to the correct position so that you hardly notice it. If you’re not careful, you are duped into thinking that nothing much has happened. But what has happened is that Nalbandian, by his sure anticipation, has negated what might have been a winner into an opportunity for himself. He patrols the wide expanses of the base line as if they were barely more than his front door step. He never charges to the net, either hopefully or desperately; he coasts there, understanding that, after the shot he has just hit, this is the place where he can wreak maximum damage. Sometimes, he can be a touch complacent, and doesn’t put the volley quite away – always dangerous against someone like Murray, and these situations provided some of the most exciting tennis, with counter attack, desperate retrieval, and just pure, coruscating skill on the line. The funny thing is that the skill would never have been necessary if Nalbandian had punched his initial volley firmly enough in the first place. We’ve got to enjoy Nalbandian when we may. It’s not very often.

October 31st, 2008 at 11:51 am

Nadal is losing 1-4 Davydenko, and is now having a medical time-out. So then we’re not going to see and in-form Nadal play an in-form Davydenko, but Davy’s not 100 percent either, he was suffering from some injury prior to Paris. In sum, we have 2 wounded players going at each other, which translated to them being on equal footing healhwise. Go guys!

October 31st, 2008 at 12:05 pm

Oh, too bad about Roger; it’s true that there’s no escaping father time, but hopefully he’ll be good as new with some rest. Personally I wanted to see A-Rod and Roger, so am a bit disappointed about that.

On the other hand, Von you’re right that this may be Blake’s last shot at the TMC event, so that’s a plus to be taken out of this.

grendel, good points about Murray’s speed, and Nalbandian’s lack thereof, but also how that highlights his ability. Nalbandian looked wonderful at the net to me today – an absolute natural! Made me long to see more…more of the scary good Dave. The returns – backhand returns in particular – were sublime. Yep, we need to enjoy these flashes when we get em.

October 31st, 2008 at 12:07 pm

Wow – Davydenko is trouncing Rafa!

October 31st, 2008 at 12:07 pm

Is Fed really out of Paris with a stiff back? I can’t believ it! It’s the rudest shock ever for me. I can’t tel you how worried and disappointed I am,just know that no words can describe it! Von, I need you with me here at this hard time.

October 31st, 2008 at 12:16 pm

So Rafa and Fed have both retired; Djoko and Murray are out. Who’s going to win this thing now? Roddick, Tsonga, or sublime Dave? The suspense mounts.

We might have a bunch of wounded players at Shanghai if they don’t mend up by then. It really is a l-o-n-g season for these guys. Luckily there’s such depth right now in the field, when a few are out, there are more great players to enjoy.

October 31st, 2008 at 12:21 pm

I can fight a world full of Anti-Feds , I can stand sorrows and disappointments,but I can’t resist one thing and that’s TIME’s onslaught on someone I like(Fed) ! For the first time,my hope’s starting to shatter,I can’t hold myself back ! Need friends!

October 31st, 2008 at 12:23 pm

Typical of Nadal. Chicken out instead of taking the whooping he was getting like a man.

Looking to Shanghai, I don’t see Nadal getting out of the group stage. Almost everybody on the list can beat him indoors. Especially if (in form) Nalbandian can make it.

October 31st, 2008 at 12:30 pm

gulu, I feel for you; but keep in mind that it’s only a stiff back. He doesn’t need surgery etc. just a little rest. Remember that Agassi had a renaissance in his late 20s / early 30s?? Roger’s coming back strong next year so keep your hat on! All shall be well.

To quote the ending of T.S.Eliot’s “Little Gidding”

And all shall be well and
All manner of thing shall be well
When the tongues of flame are in-folded
Into the crowned knot of fire
And the fire and the rose are one.

October 31st, 2008 at 12:31 pm

I am praying for a Nalbandian/Tsonga final. My understanding is that in that event, and if Nalbandian wins, then they BOTH go to Shanghai. That would be terrific! And not something anybody would have predicted at the beginning of this tourney, either.

Mind you, hasn’t happened, yet. I somehow don’t quite see Tsonga beating an in form Roddick. Here’s hoping.

October 31st, 2008 at 12:36 pm

gulu:

I’d gladly commiserate with you. I’m so sorry that your Rogi had to retire, but look on the bright side, he’ll be better for the TMC, which I feel is more important to him than Paris. Also, it’s not wise for him or any other player to play when injured — they compound their injuries by so doing.

On another note, Nadal has just retired. Nadal’s retirement, in a small way, narrows the gap between your Rogi and Nadal. Nadal will lose approx. 200 points, since he made it to the finals last year. 200 points is equivalent to a championship in Basel or one of the smaller tournaments, that said, things aren’t that bad as they would appear. Let’s put things into perspective, and go with the positives, which are many — the glass is half full.

OK dear gulu, don’t fret weetie, the ship will be righted in Shanghai and you’ll be smiling again, and filling your mouth with the sweet bananas. Now you can root for our other guy, A-Rod, I so badly want for him to at least make it to the SFs. I’d love for him to win the whole thing to shut up his critics, but I’d be hoping against hope, which is not unusual for me.

How’s the cricket situation for Team india today? Go watch some cricket and take your mind off the tennis situation for the time being, until A-Rod’s match. Here’s a full complement of smiles for you. Look at the faces closely, they’re all different. :P :D :) :( :o Is that enough? I hope so, that’s all I can do. Cheer up. Post if your lamentations become too much to handle, and I’ll answer. is that a deal?. :)

October 31st, 2008 at 12:36 pm

gulu – here’s an update –

Federer said: “I have decided to pull out of my match against James Blake tonight. My back has been stiff for the last couple of days and I woke up this morning and it did not respond to the treatment I had last night. As a precaution and because I would be unable to play at 100% tonight, I have unfortunately had to take the difficult decision not to play.

“I’ve had a lot of back pain over all the years playing tennis, so it’s not like the first time. I’ll check it out for the next few days. The flight [to Shanghai] is scheduled for Monday. I hope I can recover until then, otherwise I’ll postpone [my flight booking]. I’m confident and I’m positive that hopefully it’s going to get better in the next few days.”

October 31st, 2008 at 12:43 pm

grendel,

Yes, that would be a shocker, were Nalbandian and Tsonga both to make it to Shanghai. And perhaps a little more exciting than Simon and Del Potro for some reason? Both would be in with a shot at winning the whole thing if they were in their best form, whereas I couldn’t see either Simon or JMDP winning the TMC. Dave and Jo Will however, at their best, could do it.

October 31st, 2008 at 12:45 pm

Well Uncle Toni laid the ground work for this retirement when he commented at the beginning of the Paris tournmey that Nadal was physically falling apart, so I expected this. Nadal’s forehand, as I’ve mentioned previously, has been hugely misfiring so something’s amiss and if that continues he’ll be in big trouble, because his forehand is extremely important to his style of play, similarly to his speed, and when one goes, everything else follows suit.
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grendel:

Shame on you for wanting Tsonga to beat A-Rod!! :P I’ve heard it stated that Nalbandian is undesirous of qualifying for Shanghai due to the close time proximilty of Davis Cup, and let’s not forget he has that hip injury which is needful of surgery.

____________
Yesterday I saw my slowly fading fave Mauresmo in the crowd with Pioline and some of the other Frech players during Tsonga’s match. She looked so happy, which made me feel happy. What a beautiful serve and volleyer, with a single handed BH — nothing left in the women’s field that can compare, but all good things do come to an end, and she’s on her last lap. Very sad indeed.

October 31st, 2008 at 12:47 pm

Ooooh Nooo ! Federer ! I wish him all the best. hopeful is nothing too serious. I was really looking forward to good matches this weekend. hopefull I can still get some.

And Nadal…what kind of injury does he have ? I know his team are saying he is tired. Is it just fatigue or is it the same shoulder injury that was giving him problem in madrid ?

I hope to see the Nalbandian/murray match later. I hear 1st set was high quality. Good luck to nalbandian to win this tornament. This will make shanghai much more interesting. I am also routing for tsonga to beat roddick. If tsonga beats Roddick and blake then he will go too. I think tsonga will sure make the shanghai more interesting than del potro.

October 31st, 2008 at 12:48 pm

Grendel, are you also the voice of Stewie on “Family Guy?” I can’t help smiling as I read your posts.

October 31st, 2008 at 1:00 pm

Sorry Von: I also route for Tsonga to beat roddick. Just because Tsonga will be good for shanghai. I want some good tennis in shanghai – please please please !!

October 31st, 2008 at 1:00 pm

Kimmi, you’re forgiven. I can understand your views on wanting to see some exciting tennis in Shanghai. However, there is something many overlook with respect to Tsonaga, he has fitness issues and they pop up when we least expect them. This translates to him probably having a good run in Paris but maybe a lousy performance in Shanghai. Tsonga had a medical time-out yesterday with some leg problems, so who knows what else could happen. From what I’m seeing most of the hot players are in some ways losing their form from over-playing. The wise sage says, the body is not to be abused — there are severe consequences when we do so.

October 31st, 2008 at 1:28 pm

Von, you are probably right. Tsonga has been very unpredictable.

Nadal injury seem to be serious. I read somewhere its the knee injury and he felt some sharp pain. This guy has played so many matches this year. I think he will need the rest. Best to pull out from hanghai. Pull out from Davis Cup and rest rest rest. I am sure him and his team will know waht is the best for him.

Von: “The wise sage says, the body is not to be abused — there are severe consequences when we do so”

I agree with you 100%.

October 31st, 2008 at 1:36 pm

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga would have been the player of the year if it wasn’t for his injuries. Tsonga will make the top 10 next year for sure.

October 31st, 2008 at 1:57 pm

Carnap:

I am not American, which perhaps accounts for my not knowing who Stewie is, or even Family Guy. A cartoon, perhaps? And am I to consider myself flattered or insulted? Not that it matters, of course. Nice to be noticed in this lonely world…

October 31st, 2008 at 2:01 pm

a Nalbandian-Tsonga final will be a hot event. The French crowd will be rumbling and roaring as one can imagine, two powerful shotmakers. Depends on their will to compete and win on Sunday, should the meeting take place.

btw, Federer did not retire. He withdrew prior to the match. Blake gets a walkover. No matchplay.
Federer has apparently never retired during a match in his career.
His respect for his opponents has been admirable.

October 31st, 2008 at 2:02 pm

“” Nadal, Federer, Roddick Remain Scary-Good in Paris “”

good jinx. all thats left now is for roddick to retire with a shoulder injury tonite..

October 31st, 2008 at 2:10 pm

Thx Sean for more wrong predictions bud

October 31st, 2008 at 2:40 pm

Tennis Bullies/Sisies:

Please don’t even think it of A-Rod, I have to deal with enough bad here, so please don’t add anymore to the gloom and doom, which is enhancing my uneasyness by the minute.

October 31st, 2008 at 2:44 pm

Hey Von – what’s going on with the Tsonga Roddick match? Isn’t it supposed to have started already?

October 31st, 2008 at 3:07 pm

MMT;

Hey, Roddick broke Tsonga in the first game and has had break points aginst him in the third. Roddick is now serving at 2-1. Try the following it will take you directly to thier match. i’m on pins and needles here.

http://www.justin.tv/radiomix2

October 31st, 2008 at 3:13 pm

Got it – thanks. In a mtg, so I’ll have to watch the live score instead.

October 31st, 2008 at 3:23 pm

MMT:

The matches remain on the website for hours or days after, so you could still watch them later. Keep the link and try it later. Tsonga’s service games have each gone to several breaks. A-Rod is holding his serve and returning well.

October 31st, 2008 at 3:27 pm

I can’t believe how the umpire and the linesmen screwed up a call for Roddick at 40-30, when he got an ace and they called it fault. Hawkeye showed the ball to be well in and Tsonga knew it was in, but remained mute. The umpire made Roddick replaythe point, which made him so angry and he got broken. Cheating galore. Lahany is a real jackass.

October 31st, 2008 at 3:39 pm

Typo: Lahany s/b Lahanyi. Who cares really, je’s such a jerk.

October 31st, 2008 at 3:45 pm

Grendel, “Family Guy” is, indeed, an American cartoon. The voice of Stewie (the uberprecocious baby) is very English. He is a beloved character amongst those of us who enjoy the cartoon.

October 31st, 2008 at 3:52 pm

Von,
Hi. It’s been a while. I used to go by the name “hiding behind our keyboards”.
I needed a shorter name.

The umpire made Roddick replay that point because Tsonga got his racquet on it.

October 31st, 2008 at 3:52 pm

can’t believe both fed and nadal are out. good thing i decided to see all the third round matches. talk about luck. was going to see the final if it was fed-nadal but it’s not to be.

if tsonga makes it, i’ll go see him win in front of a french crowd.

i have to say, my seats yesterday were right where all the players come off the court and do interviews and roger looked decidingly down beat and terse while he was sitting and waiting for the interview to start. he must have known his back was screwed.

October 31st, 2008 at 3:56 pm

redux:

Hey Hiding, how ya doin? Glad to see you posting agin. Thanks for the input. I’m still mad, that was a good ace. I don’t like Lahaani one bit, his stupid smile irritates the hell out of me, and he sits there like a statue at times. Can you feel the anger. :P

October 31st, 2008 at 4:31 pm

Go Tsonga! way to win the 2nd set!! 10 break points saved that’s just unreal

October 31st, 2008 at 4:43 pm

Good match, this Tsonga vs. Roddick contest – they’re really fighting it out.

October 31st, 2008 at 5:08 pm

Outstanding serving performances from Roddick & Tsonga

October 31st, 2008 at 5:18 pm

I don’t think I’ve seen such a long stall over a challenge? Was it 2 or 3? Sheesh! Whacko!

October 31st, 2008 at 5:22 pm

Von, has the ump redeemed himself? (smiley face)

October 31st, 2008 at 5:27 pm

Von you must be feeling rather tense at the moment! Phew this one’s going to the wire.

October 31st, 2008 at 5:31 pm

Von – just back to the puter and scanning the comments above. Love some of your comments earlier on and when you referred to Mauresmo who, along with Gasquet, provide the model for anyone who wants a one handed backhand.

Roddick and Tsonga at 5-6 as I write. Great battle going on.

Of the injuries reported today, Nadal’s knee problem is the one that concerns me the most. There are so many parts to the knee and each ailment needs to be treated differently. Guess it is mri time again.

There was a comment above concerning Nadal’s mishits on the forehand. His topspin rotation is almost double that of any other player. This is a unique forehand from the grip through the execution. The ball must be struck perfectly or else the “mishit” high bouncing forehand to the baseline is produced. I would reckon if the knee is a problem, it is throwing off all of his timing.

See you all for Shanghai.

October 31st, 2008 at 5:33 pm

Oh i am glad this is going to a tiebreak as they both deserve to win!

October 31st, 2008 at 5:34 pm

Von, TD, sorry Andy lost. But he was in it until the last ball was struck.

But that was an exciting match and fun to watch until the end. Some crazy stuff with the challenges.

I have to say, though, I find French crowds to be rude sometimes, at RG too. Mind most crowds can be like that but some more than others perhaps.

October 31st, 2008 at 5:50 pm

redux:

No, only partially. That 4th game in the 3rd set after Roddick broke Tsonga, andy was down 40-30, he hit a volley that painted the lines, the linesman called it out, and Lahayni sat there stone-faced, did NADA, Roddick lost his serve, the rest is history. Too much cheating. That hawkeye tape they refused to replay it to show they were wrong, and the tournament director had to ovrrrule. They are a bunch of CHEATERS!!!!!!!!

the French crowd is terrible, and people talk about the Americans. No way, nothing’s worse than the French and the Spanish.

Roddick blew his chances in the second set too many times. He should have had that set tied up and Tsonga put away. Tsong’s serve was under pressure throughtout the entire match. roddsick played so much better.

I hope Blake blows away Tsonga tomorrow; Tsonga looks like he’s cooked.

October 31st, 2008 at 5:53 pm

Dr. Death:

Thanks for your kind compliments. Amelie Mauresmo was in a class by herself. She was always a joy to watch and NONE of the WTA players can hold a candle to her. She’s a purist with respect to the serve and volley, plus that SWEET one-handed BH. I miss watching her.

I was the poster who mentioned Nadal’s FH was waaay off. I stated he caught Fed’s FH disease. Who knows with Nadal’s knee what’s going on, only he can tell us, but I think it’s a result of too much tennis. There’s always a trade-off when we want too much — all things in moderation. That’s my pearl of wisdom for today.

October 31st, 2008 at 6:00 pm

jane;

Thanks for your words of consolation, however, I thought you were in agreement with grendel’s wishes for a Tsonga/Nalbandian final, which means that Andy’s loss is granting you both your wishes, n’est ce pas? Enjoy the nalby/Tsonga final.

October 31st, 2008 at 6:03 pm

Joe Willy Tsonga! awesome! Stop your whining and crying please. Roddick lost fair and square in a great match.

October 31st, 2008 at 6:03 pm

redux:

I noticed you wrote “smiley” instaed of the real thing. Here’s how you do it. After the comma or period hit the space bar, then type a colon plus a capital P or D and space again. If you use that formula, you’ll obtain 2 different types of smileys. Hope you like them. :P

October 31st, 2008 at 6:06 pm

Von, interesting point about the delay in replay and challenge dispute situation.
If the ump keeps track and says over the walkie there’s one challenge left, the ump should be listened to.
The hawkeye replay was shown on tv before the mess began and showed the ball was in, so I’m sitting there waiting and waiting and waiting for them to finally say the ball was good, game Roddick.
Still, a close match and respectable push from Roddick.
Tsonga might do better next match.

October 31st, 2008 at 6:07 pm

And now, enters the behemoths.

October 31st, 2008 at 6:10 pm

Hi redux:

Wasn’t that a fisaco? They knew they were wrong and when the umpire asked for the whole tape of the 2nd mset challenges to be replayed they stated they couldn’t find it. Talk about cheating. I’m more mad at the one call where andy lost his serve painting the lines with a volley and they called it out, and Lahani didn’t overrule. Unbelievable. they’re a bunch of jackasses and throw the umpin there too. But I’m not supposed to mention anything, even though it’s my opinion, to which I’m bloody entitled, BTW, just like everyone else, because it’s ‘whining”. I love the behemoths.

October 31st, 2008 at 6:14 pm

Tsonga Bomaye!

October 31st, 2008 at 6:17 pm

Dr. Death:

You said: “See you all for Shanghai”. Will you be there at the scene of the crime? Just remember there won’t be any Boss ball girls in attendance, and there will be a crowd. I hope you remembered that when you bought the tickets.

October 31st, 2008 at 6:21 pm

Dear Von,thanks for pacifying me! I m thankful to Jane too for the kind words. I watched the Rod-Tsonga live.Must say Rod was unlucky (wrong decision) ! N one of d worst n most irritatin drama enacted by d useles umpire! An inefficient umpire indeed !

October 31st, 2008 at 6:25 pm

Von, I know you r bitter that Roddick lost….Sorry!! But please lets give Tsonga some credit. The guy was playing catch-up all the time and credit to him for staying positive.

As for Blake beating Tsonga, Jason Goodall thinks Blake has more experience. 1st time for Tsonga in MS semifinal. I am routing for Tsonga lets hope he reach final. I think he deserve it since Blake did not fight for semi spot.

Bye bye Simon.

allez Tsonga

October 31st, 2008 at 6:32 pm

They’re just trying to be button-pushers, Von.
This place can be loaded with them. They can’t construct a valid argument or analysis, so they’re pitifully reduced to “my dad can beat up your dad” taunting.
You see it alot in the Federer-Nadal battles on here for example, from what I remember.
I like what I’ve seen of Roddick’s improved angles.

October 31st, 2008 at 6:34 pm

gulu:

Thanks, at last another honest voice of reason. Lahanyi is a poor excuse for an umpire. He screws up things in the worst way and does not pay attention to the calls most of the time. If ever you hear of a woman slapping an umpire at any time in the future, that’ll be me. I’ll join Jeff Tarrango’s wife in that respect. :P

How are you doing? Any better? I hope so — now we can cry on each other’s shoulders because both of our faves are out of Paris. Boo-hoo.

October 31st, 2008 at 6:35 pm

Kimmi:

I wouldn’t have minded if Roddick lost due to playing badly, but he played a very good match and those bad calls turned the 2nd set into a loss and the same with the 3rd set. There were TOO MANY bad calls and the umpire was extremely inept on each occasion. Roddick was screwed period.

October 31st, 2008 at 6:39 pm

redux:

Thanks for your insightful analysis. Most of them are driven by hate for the Americans and they spew their hate whenever they can. Must be very sick living with such a hateful mind. Posting can be a pleasure if people would leave the nonsensical jargon out. Most of them can’t handle a smidgen of what they dish out. They end up in a tailspin if ever any mention is made of their faves, but when it’s regarding anyone else’s, they’re awfully cruel. More power to them.

October 31st, 2008 at 6:43 pm

Whew, what a thriller – and it only goes to show the tennis does not have to be of the highest quality to grab you by your forelocks and give you a good shaking. Mark Petchey, discussing the prospects for the semis tomorrow, said the bad news was there would only be one semi, since Tsonga was going to be arrested for stealing the match from Roddick. Yet in the end, Tsonga deserved the victory imo. Here’s why.

At the start, Roddick had that utterly focused look which generally spells trouble for his opponents – he kept it all the way through his match with Federer early this season, and thoroughly earned that victory. But to day, despite all that nervous, intense strutting in the first set – which usually signals he is in the mood to do damage – he lost it. Tsonga is so unpredictable as to cause you a little concern for his mental health, and there is no doubt this got right into Roddick’s head – he was confused, and who can blame him? Time and again, Tsonga virtually gave the point to Roddick. Man, was he wound up – tight as a Prebyterian’s wallet. Easy balls pounded into the net, went sailing out of court without rhyme or reason. Tsonga’s first serve – a very good one – was utterly unreliable until a crucial portion of the third set (he actually, I believe, ended up with more aces than Roddick); until the third set, I don’t think he got one of the wide angled serves in. And his second serve was weak, but then that’s no surprise, surely that’s something he badly needs to work on. But the crucial thing is, the absolutely crucial thing is that when it mattered, Joe Wilfred delivered. It’s not that Roddick played badly on all those break points – but Tsonga played magnificently; in fact I doubt if there is a player on the tour who could have pulled off some of the shots Tsonga did under the most extreme pressure. But here’s the rub: it seems to me that it was the pressure which allowed Tsonga to express himself in all his glory. Given a relatively easy ball by Roddick, and he had plenty of those, Roddick has still not managed to eliminate altogether a fatal tendency to passivity, Tsonga had time to: ponder. So he winds himself up, his arm taut as a drumstick and – well, you know. But given a tough shot by Roddick at a critical moment, stiffness miraculously dissolves, instinct grabs the helm and boy, is Tsongaian instinct a potent force!

Roddick showed some class shots, a lovely crosscourt forehand pass and even better, a couple of running passes down the line curling around the corner – tremendous. And he is becoming very adept at the shot – from both wings – low and dipping over the net, both fast and slow. His volleying was variable, a bizarre mixture of the very good and aweful. For some reason, he didn’t attack as much with his serve as he might have done.

Tsonga being who he is, quite impossible to predict how he’ll do against Blake. Obviously it’s a shame for Roddick fans, but a Tsonga victory is good for the game imo, he’s just a uniquely exciting character, and I suspect we won’t see too much of him. I’m just glad he’s here now, for his probably brief tennis life, to enjoy. He’s a force of nature, and they don’t come too often.

October 31st, 2008 at 6:46 pm

grendel: “Obviously it’s a shame for Roddick fans, but a Tsonga victory is good for the game imo, he’s just a uniquely exciting character,”.

I agree with with you there. From the time i started to follow Tsonga, he has been more out of the tour than in. Its good to see this in him trying to find his game again. To win these close matches will be good for his confidence.

grendel: “and I suspect we won’t see too much of him”

If this happens, it will be a big shame, because the tour and tennis fans needs players like Tsonga as his tennis and fighting spirit is very exciting to watch.

The match was very excitingly tense and I agree that the umpiring was poor, but these things happen in a lot of matches, players just need to toughen up, forget and carry on playing the next point.

October 31st, 2008 at 7:35 pm

Gotta give some credit to A-Rod for being gracious after his tough loss.

“I definitely had more than enough chances tonight so this one will probably stick with me for a little bit,”

“Credit to him, he came up with probably six or seven volleys that were pretty tough on break points. He played very well.”

October 31st, 2008 at 7:55 pm

I think Tsonga is finished. He was flexing his knee yesterday and today. Playing everyday, sometimes in less than 24 hours, is just too much.

October 31st, 2008 at 8:04 pm

Von – too bad for Roddick. ONE DAY!

The crowds can be managed from a platinum box behind the court. I want to see the serves coming at me! The med-doc disapproves of my attendance, but I plan to distract him with the BOSS Girls while I sneak to the airport. Still have a couple of weeks to decide.

November 1st, 2008 at 2:19 am

I’d be very happy if Tsonga gets to the final and he winning it’ll be one of d happiest moments 4 me! Ppl r always dyin 4 guys lik Fed,Rafa etc etc,but none really cares about Tsonga or David,it’s nothing but sheer bad luck of these two guys !

November 1st, 2008 at 2:51 am

Dr. Death:

Thought I’d visit the blog since my workday ends now, and there you are.

What can I say — it was the worst umpiring, bad crowd, and lines calls I’ve ever seen. The crowd was worse than a Davis cup match imo. This would not have happened to the top 3, I can assure you, but Roddick is everybody’s whipping post nowadays. Is it any wonder he loses it with the umpires. I believe they are more than deserving for whatever anger is unleashed at them from the players; some players get away with all types of violations and some are really screwed. My interest in tennis is waning and I find myself becoming interested basketball once again.

With respect to the serves coming at you, you can always hold your breath and duck. When I initially began playing, I would hold my breath until the point was over, and duck when I saw the balls coming at me. I couldn’t understand why I had difficulty breathing, until one day I realized I was holding my breath; talk about breathless anticipation. :)

You’re very, very brave hanging around the BOSS girls. I read two of them actually collided with each other. I think your doctor is right and probabaly afraid your heart might skip some beats when you’re around them – you had better heed his advice. :P Are you able to obtain tickets at this late stage though? Hello, you don’t have a couple of weeks, just 8 days, Anyway, if you do go to Shanghai, drop us a line and give us some live reporting will you, especially with respect to my sweetheart – A-Rod. I wish I were going but I can’t handle crowds, not to mention the 15 hour plane ride. Gosh, I don’t know how you do it. Chat with you later and be good, if not be careful. :D

November 1st, 2008 at 2:55 am

The reason I am so vocal in my support of Tsonga’s dat I personally think that he’s capable of winning a slam,but sadly it might never happen ! I’d becom his fan from Aus Open 2008 semi when he bt Rafa! His net game,serve,volley n other shots were superb!

November 1st, 2008 at 3:19 am

The reason I am so vocal in my support of Tsonga’s dat I personally think that he’s capabl of winning a slam,but sadly it might never happen ! I’d becom his fan since Aus Open 2008 semi when he bt Rafa! His net game,serve,volley n other shots were superb!

November 1st, 2008 at 3:33 am

What has Tsonga achieved after all despite being so much talented? Just one minor titl at Bangkok in 2008 by the age of 23,can you believ it? It’s pathetic ! :-(

November 1st, 2008 at 3:56 am

Where are you dear Zola? Why are you not posting here ? Have you forgotten us ?

November 1st, 2008 at 4:02 am

Von – I was offered a platinum box ticket recently. Given the economic climate these days, they are not selling like last year. This surprises me as this is the last one in Shanghai. Honestly, don’t know if I can physically make the trip. The med-doc may win even though it is a couple of hours flight for me.

Watch Roddick’s breathing next time you see him serve. Let me know what you see – assuming the camera work is as good as it was at Madrid.

November 1st, 2008 at 4:07 am

Von,

No, both my aunt and I were rooting for Roddick, but I did concur with grendel that were Tsonga and Nalbandian to make it to Shanghai it would be a shocker (i.e., up till now it didn’t look like they had a chance!).

And also more exciting than the two rookies, since I don’t think either would have a shot to do well. (This is what I said in reply to grendel: “Yes, that would be a shocker, were Nalbandian and Tsonga both to make it to Shanghai. And perhaps a little more exciting than Simon and Del Potro for some reason? “)

Anyhow, I meant my consolation sincerely and I also felt it was too bad that Roddick lost; he did play exceptionally well.

November 1st, 2008 at 1:15 pm

Barring the fact that this was a French crowd, obviously biased, and rather rude at times, crowds, in general, do really seem to like Tsonga; he’s a charismatic character.

I am a little peeved at him for taking out Djokovic, Roddick AND now Blake at this tournament, but he did play very well, so credit is due for that.

November 1st, 2008 at 1:23 pm

grendel, this is one of your best witticisms yet! “Man, was he wound up – tight as a Prebyterian’s wallet.” ha!

November 1st, 2008 at 2:03 pm

jane:

No problem, it’s over and done with.

I’ll be the first to admit that I do have a problem with some of the remarks I read, and maybe it’s interpreted as bitterness which is far from my true intents and purposes. Anger is not bitterness. I was extremely angry about the inept umpiring which caused Roddick to lose a well played match imo. Both the second and third set blunders from bad line calls were inexcusable and could have been avoided had the umpire been doing his job efficiently. The third set fiasco at 5-5 broke, was the worst and it broke Roddick’s momentum big time. It’s easy for those whose fave is not involved in such a situation to say a player should do this and do that when there’s adversity, especially if we want his opponent to win. However, I’m sure if the shoe were on the other foot when it concerned the faves of those who have all these grandiose suggestions, they would be complaining from here to ying yang. Anyway those are the travails of posting. I’ve yet to conquer the viciousness of some of the remarks I read where others openly state they enjoy when another player is beaten, but maybe someday I will. I suppose I am thin-skinned after all, even though I consider myself to be a humanist and one who has a certain amount of spirituality, where an eye for an eye mentaility does not have a fertile breeding ground in my thought processes. I do hope in future, if I were to openly voice my desires of whose fave I prefer to see beaten by whom, the posters of those players, wouldn’t be inordinately offended, because it’s historically been a known fact that people can’t handle what they dish out when it comes back to them. Who said life was fair, and then again, one famous person said, all’s fair in love and war.

I know yesterday I mentioned Blake would blow Tsonga away, but in my heart I knew this was just an infinitesimal possibility, hoping against hope. Let’s face it, Blake has been playing like garbage for most of this year, but I’m one who likes to exploit the odds, which is comical but that’s just who and what I am — I like to dare the naysayers. :P

I’m very happy Nalby has made it through to the finals and hopefully he’ll defend his title, making him a repeat winner. He played somewhat rather tentatively against Davydenko in the second set and had to dig deep in the third to win. I do believe that tiredness is now becoming a factor for him, or maybe his hip is causing him some serious discomfort, which could be a problem tomorrow, but we’ll see. I doubt whether he’ll go to Shanghai if he wins because a Davis Cup win means more to him than the TMC, which he has won already. If he doesn’t go to Shanghai, then I suppose DelPotro will be playing there along with Tsonga and Simon will be an alternate. Funny thing, these numbers games.

November 1st, 2008 at 2:12 pm

MMT:

You wouldn’t believe who I saw in the Paris tournament today. OK quiz time’s over. Henri Leconte with his wife and baby sitting among the French tennis stars. The cameraman focused on him and the commentators said “That’s Henri Leconte”. Of course, they went into a little dissertation about him. FYI, he now has a beard.

BTW thanks for those YOuTube Leconte links you posted for me on the other thread, which I watched last night, and coincidentally there he was on camera today. I posted a reply and a ‘thank you’, so if you have the time take a look. :P

November 1st, 2008 at 2:26 pm

I see JMDP has already qualified for Shanghai, and so the final spot will be decided in the final, appropriately perhaps.

To me, it looks like Tsonga will be the one, given that he has the crowd and momentum. And even if David wins, he doesn’t seem to want to go, so as you say Von, it’ll likely be Tsonga and Simon as back up.

———————–

Von,

Regarding the 5-5 challenge fiasco, I thought it was ridiculous! My aunt and I could not believe how long it took for the referee to get out there and settle the thing once and for all! It was silly and I was irked. Roddick was right; he had a challenge remaining, as the umpire also knew.

So someone (? who remains a mystery?) on the walkie-talkie was controlling things – not the referee or the ump. Very strange indeed!

I think the match was undecided right until the end; when Roddick got the mini-break back in the tiebreak I thought he’d actually win, given his much greater match and tiebreak experience. But I think Roddick was a little thrown off by the whole thing. It was too bad that happened.

I missed some of the other 2nd set calls you’re talking about so I can’t comment. I had company, so could watch only out of the corner of my eye for the first 2 sets. Only in the 3rd set, did we glue ourselves to the streaming on the computer.

Anyhow, you’re right; it’s done. The good news is twofold: Roddick is going to Shanghai for the 6th (!) year! And he’s ending the year playing very very well, which bodes well for next year. So keep smiling :-)

BTW, any news on his coach prospects?

November 1st, 2008 at 2:50 pm

jane:

Well, good for DelPotro. I suppose he’ll be very excited since it’s his first time for so doing. I suppose the next spot will go to Tsonga if Dave declines. It’ll be an interesting TMC with the injures, et al.

Despite what the media says, I think Andy did very well to turn this season around ending it on a high note in qualifying for the TMC. It’s not easy to be laid up for more than 2 months and bounce back. I give him kudos. No news on the coach prospects for a-Rod. I need to visit/read more websites for tennis news, but truthfully I’m not one for visiting websites and such, also lack of time is a deterrent, but more than anything else, I lack the motivation.

November 1st, 2008 at 4:35 pm

Sincerely speaking, I think that Nalbandian should have been holding multiple Grand Slams by now instead of chasing the stupid masters series tournaments!Sorry folks,but I think that Nalbandian is better than some of even the grandslam winners! He’s slamless on paper but to me he’s outstanding! A guy like Nalby mayn’t have won a single slam even,still their peers respect him,in fact not only respect but also fear him ! It’s his misfortune that he’s not won even a single grandslam,this is why the creation is an enigma for us!And now I think we have another guy who’s got the attributes of Nalby.He has world beating capacity,but he’s won a petty event only upto the age of 23 years.Yes,I am talking about Tsonga!He’s the guy whose potential may not go somewhere close even to realisation! That’s why I am worried about Tsonga and Nalby,
almost always!

November 1st, 2008 at 4:46 pm

Tsonga played very well today, almost like the the deja vu he had during the Aussie open in the beginning of this year.

I actually thought he might be tired, due to the 3 tight sets he played against stepanek, Djoker and roddick. But the guy came smoking. Serving so big and poor blake did not know what hit him.

For some reason I thought Tsonga needs a win to qualify today….Nooo!! he needs to win the whole thing! thats a pity coz imo I think both Nalbandian and Tsonga needs to be in Shanghai.

Which Nalbandian will turn up tomorrow ? If the Nalbandian that played with Davydenko turns up then Tsonga has a chance. Oooh well ! Lets the best man on the day win.

November 1st, 2008 at 5:10 pm

gulu, hello!

You said:
1) “What has Tsonga achieved after all despite being so much talented? Just one minor titl at Bangkok in 2008 by the age of 23, can you believe it? It’s pathetic!”

2) “He has world beating capacity, but he’s won a petty event only upto the age of 23 years. Yes, I am talking about Tsonga! He’s the guy whose potential may not go somewhere close even to realisation!”

Tsonga turned professional in 2004, but suffered various injuries in 2004, 2005, 2006. He played only 8 tournaments in those three years. His career truly began in 2007 at the Australian Open.
You can check his career statistics on Wikipedia.org. I believe they are accurate.
Considering this is really only his second year playing full-season tennis, he’s making very good progress. He may win several big titles if he avoids injury.

November 1st, 2008 at 5:54 pm

Hi Redux n I m glad u r a new friend of mine from now on! :-) Yes friend,I know that his real participation in the pro tour has been only 4 a year! Yet I m worried coz he’s already 23 n must start doin really wel befor it’s too late 4 him 2 prov himself

November 2nd, 2008 at 1:29 pm

gulu, today was an excellent start to his coming success, whatever that may include.

November 2nd, 2008 at 1:33 pm

Redux,I too hope so!

November 2nd, 2008 at 3:15 pm

Let me preface this by stating that I am no fan of Andy Roddick’s and his rudeness to officials sickens me. However, I do think he was treated very shabbily in Bercy, even to the extent of trying to provoke him into a tirade by denying that he still had a challenge left. All credit to Andy for keeping his cool under such extremely difficult circumstances.

With a hometown favorite playing, I expect the crowd to be very partisan, but this crowd was incredibly unfair. When Stepanek broke back, not one person applauded; Nadal was booed off the court; Roddick was provoked beyond belief.

C’est la vie.

November 3rd, 2008 at 3:36 pm

Yes, I realize that Nadal didn’t play Tsonga. I included him because he’d been treated very rudely, too.

November 3rd, 2008 at 3:39 pm

Von said: “Henri Leconte with his wife and baby sitting among the French tennis stars.”

I’m sorry, I’ve been moving into a new house for about 72 hours straight and just got my internet connection again!

I believe Leconte’s wife is/was a bullfighter. That seems to suit him perfectly. I didn’t realize he now has a beart, but that doesn’t suprise me – I myself get gired of shaving, and I’m much younger than him.

In any case, he’s still one of my favorites – I don’t believe he ever won at Bercy, but he was always a crowd favorite, and played well there even towards the end of his career.

My man, Henri Leconte – a genius from the elbow down.

November 4th, 2008 at 3:54 am