ATP/WTA Previews: Roddick Dissed by NYT; Federer Davis Cup

If one-slam wonders were to be called stars, then there would be many stars, but there are only two big stars, both from Europe. Roger and Rafa, but the Swiss is more global, he speaks good English, better than many natives, so he satisfies all the requirements. There are tiny stars, and Roddick is one of the tiny ones. Not many Americans know him, forget about the whole world. We live in a global village, and he is a local mini star, not much of a value.
Davis cup is waste. A player wins points in DC from this year, but how much? 500 max, if you win from 1st Round through final, and your individual win alone does not count, it depends on the whole team, and you have to play in different countries at different times. That’s a lot of work and almost no pay. Tennis is an individual sports. Davis cup is a joke. It has no big prize money and no TV rating so it should have been scrapped long ago.

August 3rd, 2009 at 12:07 am

Congrats to Querrey, Davydenko and Bellucci (!) for titles wins today. Nice that Sam picked up a title this summer, after some good matches on grass.

Washington has a pretty good line up. Should be a good event.

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Federer Streak, seems you’re being a little hard on Davis Cup! I realize tennis is an individual sport, but Davis Cup has an interesting place precisely because of that, as it allows tennis players a chance to work in a team format, and to play for their countries. It also allows players who often don’t get to shine on the bigger stages to play important matches, like Sela, or even like Wawrinka, who played excellent for the Swiss in the USA. Anyhow, I don’t see it as a “joke” at all.

August 3rd, 2009 at 1:11 am

Very interesting match-ups in the first round in DC – Donald Young and Lleyton Hewitt. I haven’t heard much from young, but judging from all of his contemporaries who are doing MUCH better than him, this wild card he’s received has the appearance of being a last chance saloon.

Berdych and Gulbis should also be entertaining – who knows which Gulbis will decide to show up – incredibly Berdych appears to be the safer bet, and I never thought I would say that in public.

Juan Carlos Fererro and Nicolas Lapenti – on clay this would be a classic confrontation, but on hard courts, I wonder who makes the adjustments better from their natural surface – my guess would be Fererro.

Jane, I watched Dancevic beat Tursunov in Indy and I have to say I was impressed with his movement, serve and touch, and I’m looking forward to seeing him in person. I think both of his ground strokes could use a little more follow through out in front and across his body, but he’s the pro – anyway, should be interesting to see him play.

Youzhny and Kendrick will also be interesting – big serving American who played very well at Wimbledon against a guy who is as likely to beat his own head open as his opponent. Unfortunately that’s the first match and I’ll probably miss it.

This Devarman kid has had a disappointing season after reaching the final of Chennai, but I’ve actually see him play once at a clay court exhibition at a country club in Westchester County a year ago against Kendrick. He appeared to be just a scrapper, but he beat Kendrick in 3 (I think). He does not appear to have the game to do much more than scrap, but I hope he does well – I think he’s a local kid.

Last, but not least, Jerzy Janowicz – never heard of him, but he received a wild card. I hope for his sake he merits it with a good showing or even a result, because these things can be like fool’s gold to a player who doesn’t have the right mind set anyway.

Looking forward to a great week.

August 3rd, 2009 at 1:50 am

Good to see Bellucci win a title. I first heard of him last year, when he was drawn to meet Nadal in first round at RG. Zola worried about Nadal’s hard first match. This struck me as just Zola being ultraprotective about her man. But she turned out to be right. Bellucci took the first set and gave Nadal perhaps his toughest battle, perhaps one should say only battle (apart from one tight set with Djokovic). Then I watched Bellucci standing toe to toe with del Potro at the US Open for quite a while before the Argentinian took control.

There must be a lot of players who hover around the edge of the very top and who never quite make it for reasons not easy to discern. People usually say it’s mental. Could this prove Bellucci’s breakthrough tourney? And if so, how far will he go before the hovering sets in?

August 3rd, 2009 at 7:19 am

Why don’t you say that it was the Associated Press that dissed Roddick rather than the NYT which just ran the copy from another source?

August 3rd, 2009 at 9:01 am

I have to say, in all the excitement, I failed to notice that Safin would not play DC this year – that’s a bit of a disappointment. I have to say Haas definitely had him on his heels physically throughout the match in LA – maybe it was the balls or playing at night, but he didn’t appear to have a lot of pop on his forehand (especially) and seemed to hit a lot of unnecessary reverser forehands, which is always a sign that you need a little more racquet head speed than you can muster with a traditional follow-through.

August 3rd, 2009 at 9:31 am

MMT, have fun at the DC event. I haven’t seen Dancevic play live (though I hope to get to Roger’s Cup next summer) but I agree with you that he’s got a decent game; maybe he could use a better coach?

I missed Safin/Haas but Safin played a lot of tennis in L.A., with the exo against Pete and doubles as well. Maybe he should have opted out of playing doubles and played singles again this week instead. Or maybe he’d never intended on playing DC this summer.

August 3rd, 2009 at 10:17 am

I don’t believe Safin was ever scheduled to play DC, although he’s played here often in the past. that said, I’m still disappointed that he won’t come around for his farewell tour, as his forehand is a technical wonder – so much consistent power and spin. Backhand is not as strong, but stronger than most. Anyway, maybe I’ll get up to the US Open this year and see him play some. Otherwise, it’s strictly youtube and Tennis Channel Classics for him.

August 3rd, 2009 at 10:35 am

The best thing about Dancevic is his movement and balance – very aesthetically appealing to watch. He also wore a classic Borg throwback outfit, which I really appreciated.

I have to say, I watched him play Tursunov, and while he won the match, Tursunov had a lot more power than him and he seemed to resort to the reverse forehand a lot, and his backhand doesn’t have nearly the extension of classic one-handers on tour like Almagro or Haas.

Speaking of Almagro, their serves are very similar – very compact with no wasted movement, but a lot of power and most importantly direction. He’s not exactly a young player anymore at 24, but his is the type of game that could bloom late, although I’m not holding my breath.

Looking forward to it.

August 3rd, 2009 at 10:40 am

Dancevic’s throwback outfit was the shirt. The shorts, well, he didn’t want to don what Borg used to wear back in the day.

August 3rd, 2009 at 11:17 am

Hey Grendel,

Agree on Bellucci, however, Nadal won in straights(like all 7 matches in RG ’08)
First set was 7-5. But Bellucci was a break up in that first set before Nadal took over…..

August 3rd, 2009 at 11:27 am

tennis x staff trying too hard to be controversial and start a fan war

FAIL

August 3rd, 2009 at 11:50 am

“Agree on Bellucci, however, Nadal won in straights(like all 7 matches in RG ‘08)
First set was 7-5. But Bellucci was a break up in that first set before Nadal took over…..”

Thanks for correction. Remember now. seems like Bellucci SHOULD have won first set…

August 3rd, 2009 at 12:50 pm

Dan says, “Still, something about it not being amenable to marketing makes me like it. Not everything has to be run on ESPN’s time table.”

How do you watch if it is not on TV, how do you like you cannot watch? Do you fly to these events in your private jet or does tennis x cover your expenses?
Not only the calendar, I don’t like Davis Cup because it is an attempt to tap on the nationalist crowd, inflame their nationalist sentiments, it aggravates dislike between two countries, and is not easily accessible to global fans of tennis.

August 3rd, 2009 at 12:59 pm

“Not only the calendar, I don’t like Davis Cup because it is an attempt to tap on the nationalist crowd, inflame their nationalist sentiments, it aggravates dislike between two countries, and is not easily accessible to global fans of tennis.”

Federer Streak – you’ve really distilled Davis Cup down to the absolulte worst case scenario with this statement. It can be a wonderful tool to develop respect and admiration amongst participants, and those who seek to disrupt sporting events with nationalist fervor do not need the Davis Cup – just look at what has happened at the Australian Open the last couple of years.

I’m 100% in favor of anything that supports the development and prominence of Davis Cup – I think it’s a great event.

August 3rd, 2009 at 1:33 pm

MMT,
you are entitled like whatever you want. the same way I am entitled to not favor whatever I want, don’t I have the same entitlement as you? to me nationalist fervor in other events is less acrimonious and less violent than davis cup, esp between two neighboring countries. it does nothing to promote and improve tennis. its format, locations, time, and cost have discouraged developing countries when they get knocked out in playoffs, which are played before the first round. the nationalist bend has not achieved anything, imo.
be that as it may. why do you think it’s a better event than a 500 level tournament? in what respects? from which perspective? is the field deeper, prize bigger, points earned higher, and viewership larger? why do top players like Roger avoid playing it? As a player and then as a fan, which events would you throw away in place of DC and why?

August 3rd, 2009 at 2:12 pm

Rafael Nadal’s coach and uncle, Toni Nadal, tells Radio Marca that his nephew will indeed return to competition in a week’s time. “Rafa will play in Montreal,” said Toni, adding that he does not expect the world No. 2 to be at peak form after two months on the sidelines. “Our concern is to be in condition to play and give the maximum. Then we will see if we can win against Federer, Murray, Djokovic.”

tennis.com/news/ticker.aspx#nadal

August 3rd, 2009 at 2:25 pm

I concur with the opinion that Davis Cup games are bizarre. If you want nationalistic tennis watch the Olympics – it makes sense there. Aside from that, I find it very awkward as well. Commentators talk about it with great pride but I find it irrelevent. It’s kind of like charity tennis because it has no real value but someone seems to like it or benefit from it. If you get rid of it I wouldn’t notice.

August 3rd, 2009 at 2:39 pm

“Then we will see if we can win against Federer, Murray, Djokovic.”” uncle toni

Its not only Fed, Murray and Djoko, they should worry about…a lot of players can trouble Nadal on HC..JMDP who beat him the last time they play, Soldering, Roddick will also be dangerous and a lot others.. LOL uncle toni always speaks BS with regards to Nadal.

August 3rd, 2009 at 2:39 pm

Agree Kimmi, I don’t get uncle Toni’s remarks most of the time. He probably thinks he’s protecting Rafa to relieve expectations, but imo all that does is fire up and boost confidence of the other players if they face him…

August 3rd, 2009 at 4:15 pm

I’ve never been quite convinced by the Davis Cup. Tennis, like boxing – which it does resemble in certain respects – is an individual sport. Somehow, gathering a “team” of individuals, still playing as individuals, to represent a country seems a touch contrived. Football, say, or cricket etc,obviously are team sports. So it seems quite natural to have national teams in these sports.

The same is true, incidentally, in another individual sport, athletics. Who really cares who beats who on the national level? What is of interest is the performances of individual athletes – including rivalries, but between individuals and not the countries they represent.

Considering the last Davis Cup final, we had del Potro too exhausted to do himself – and Argentina – justice. That was a choice. And in some ways, one of the most significant events was the performance of Verdasco: it gave him the confidence to perform at a high level in the tourneys which really mattered…..This is just a personal feeling. Golf, too, now I come to think of it. Trying to make national teams for this very individual sport seems strained. Americans are proud of their golf heroes – do they really care who wins the Ryder Cup (is it still called that….?)

August 3rd, 2009 at 4:25 pm

Grendel….for golfers the Ryder Cup is really really big! As it is for the Europeans. It is a huge and amazingly good spirited and fierce competitive match every other year. I’ve visited the Ryder Cup at the K-Club in Ireland in ’06 and I can tell ya, it’s like nothing I have ever seen!!!!!

August 3rd, 2009 at 4:33 pm

Veno, its true. So many times uncle Toni has decided to “speak” for Nadal and I have always wondered why is Nadal not speaking for himself ? The amount of exaggerations he is done for Rafa injuries are astronomical. Recently I laughed at the article showing he called the Parisian crowd stupid when they show not chearing for Nadal when he lost to Soderling in the FO. LOL

But apart from that he is been the best coach for Rafa, winning 6 GS under him is more than great, like what you said in the other thread they did well to excecute a game that could beat Federer over and over . He just need to learn how to speak with the media thats all.

August 3rd, 2009 at 4:57 pm

Oh, I’m not taking anything away from Toni Nadal, he did great…6 GS’s phenomenal. But…Rafa is a grown man now at 23…I’m afraid if he stays with Toni it will have an adverse effect on his career, simply because their professional relationship is subordinate to their personal relationship, in which there’s a vertical-directed interaction(Toni being the older, mature master and Rafa being the obedient, younger apprentice)
It would be wise for Rafa to spread his wings and cut free from this “familiar” surroundings and start finding his own way as a mature, individual champion. He’ll always be humble and fortright, but it’s time to shake his “nice kid” image.
It doesn’t fit a warrior like him anymore.

August 3rd, 2009 at 5:32 pm

i am sure rafa will have no problem winning against roger. rafa is in roger’s head, and will always be a tough match up for roger, even if rafa is less than 100 percent.

August 3rd, 2009 at 5:37 pm

And Kimmi, glad you read my post on the other thread…for some reason most people just like to bash each other and other people’s favourites(so futile, it brings nothing, just waisted energy imo; I guess they use it to vent or something)that when you post an opinion, stated subjectively, but from an external point of view hardly any discussion or debate is initiated. Pity, cause I always thought that’s the most fun in written blogs. But hey, it’s ok…Everybody’s entitled to write what they like of course…

August 3rd, 2009 at 5:40 pm

Agree Fed is afraid….and isn’t that fantastic.
Without Fed Rafa’s star wouldn’t have been shining and vice versa. I’m a Fed fan, but a tennis fan foremost and I love that they have had great matches, even though Rafa’s had had the better of Fed in their H2H. Rejoice in that fact, because think about how it would have been if their H2H was the other way around….that would have been worse for tennis I can tell ya. Fed would have had 18 slams and Rafa 3…I like 15-6 better, how about you?

August 3rd, 2009 at 5:42 pm

“It would be wise for Rafa to spread his wings and cut free from this “familiar” surroundings ”

I don’t think that will happen as he is very loyal to his family, but I also think a new coach, new perspective might give Nadal’s career an extra boost.

August 3rd, 2009 at 5:47 pm

Federer streak:

“Davis cup is waste. A player wins points in DC from this year, but how much? 500 max, if you win from 1st Round through final, and your individual win alone does not count, it depends on the whole team, and you have to play in different countries at different times. That’s a lot of work and almost no pay. Tennis is an individual sports. Davis cup is a joke. It has no big prize money and no TV rating so it should have been scrapped long ago.”

Not everyone is as mercenary as you. Some people do it out of nationalistic pride. You know, as in play for your country. The Olympics is the same. Rankings points are low, and no prize money, but they want to win a medal for their country (and themselves).

August 3rd, 2009 at 6:48 pm

Federer Streak, hosting a Davis Cup tie is actually cheaper than hosting an ATP event, where you need to dish out at least million dollars in prize money plus additional appearance fees and other organization related costs. So you are looking at multi-million dollar investment and you have to do so each year. Many countries do not have the resources to host ATP/WTA tourneys and Davis Cup is an important source of income for many national federations. USTA makes its money at the US open and spends it on other causes. But even here in US, there are very limited tourneys for the size of the country and Davis or Fed cup provide great opportunity to bring world class tennis players to smaller towns.

So it may not be perfect in its current format, but it is one of the oldest running global competition that actually devotes an entire day for Doubles (that’s why Bryan bros love it) and has produced some inspiring performances over the years. So it’s worth the trouble.

August 3rd, 2009 at 7:05 pm

‘Giner Says:
The Olympics is the same. Rankings points are low, and no prize money, but they want to win a medal for their country (and themselves).’

True and last year’s olympic was the perfect example. Everyone questioned why tennis should be there. But the players silenced every critic with their play. can never forget Roger’s ultra goofy celebration after winning the doubles gold medal. Nike has to pay him millions to make him wear silly jackets. You got that one for free.

August 3rd, 2009 at 7:14 pm

“why do top players like Roger avoid playing it?”

Actually most top players DO play Davis Cup, including Rafa, Djoko, Murray, JMDP, etc.

Also, someone mentioned that they don’t like the nationalist aspect, and I guess I can see that point.

However, as mentioned before, I really feel like Davis Cup allows for some of the lower ranked players to step up and compete for their countries or on a bigger stage, whereas they may not be able to, or may not make it deep, at the Olympics. At Davis Cup we see new and different players achieve something about which they can be proud. I think it’s a good stage and format. I like seeing the team aspect, seeing team members cheering each other from the sidelines.

It’s a different way to watch and think about tennis and it seems an ideal place to develop young talent (i.e. as hitting partners?) and to allow older talents to shine.

August 3rd, 2009 at 7:37 pm

“i am sure rafa will have no problem winning against roger. rafa is in roger’s head, and will always be a tough match up for roger, even if rafa is less than 100 percent.”

It’s just been announced on the news that in the event of Federer and Nadal meeting at the US Open, Federer will withdraw. His spokesman commented: “We feel it is unfair to inflict upon the paying public what is virtually a fait accompli. It is wellknown that it is impossible for Federer to beat Nadal, despite the indisputable fact that he is much the better player.

“It is undignified, really, for such a great player to have to submit himself to the travesty of the game of tennis as performed by the man from Mallorca. What is the point of Roger Federer running around in a thoroughly unbecoming manner, quite at odds with his generally graceful, catlike gliding, and being obliged to reach for balls skimming the stratosphere, an ugly business which has the unfortunate effect of cramping his elegant backhand?

“To what end does he hit his glorious forehands, snapped out of nowehere and dispatched to all corners of the court,the word “winner” being written on each of them – only to find them coming back, most unfairly, as winners themselves, even though these shots are crude and ugly and frankly diabolically lucky?

“Why bother winning a set or two with ease when it is known that the Spaniard actually relishes losing a couple of sets, because that’s when he really gets going. Mr.Federer, understanably for he is a gentleman who scorns to resort to the underhand means of his opponent, fails to comprehend the logic of this and, in his courageous attempts to solve this dark difficulty, loses his concentration. He thereby sacrifices the match. That is unacceptable.”

August 3rd, 2009 at 7:44 pm

Another possibility is that just as McEnroe learnt how to beat Lendl, Federer will do the same with Nadal. Change always seems improbable until it happens. Then it seems as if it was inevitable.

August 3rd, 2009 at 7:47 pm

Davis cup provides a wonderful opportunity for the athletes of their respective countries to commingle — a sort of getting to know you, getting to know all about you — scenario while representing their countries.

I happen to like the festive atmosphere and excitement of Davis cup, not the mention the tintinnabulation of the bells, whistles, and the crazy hats and banners. I’m positive the athletes themselves become energized by the electricity of the atmosphere and it gives them more of an incentive to perform on a higher level.

When Nadal was playing for Spain last year a lot of his fans, who’ve probably never much cared for Davis cup prior to his participation, became excited and the interest in the sport grew to epidemic proportions. I believe the same interest and excitement would be sparked if the other top athletes were to participate on a more permanent basis, and then we won’t hear of Davis cup being a waste of time and money.

August 3rd, 2009 at 7:52 pm

Davis Cup is fine but I think it needs to be like the Ryder Cup – held every, what – 2 years? Give the country who wins it a year to enjoy it instead of having to immediately defend it in about 3-4 months! Maybe if it wasn’t played every year it would mean much more.

But for me, I don’t care if country x is playing country y….I still pull for my favorite individual performers. Like I don’t care if Roger is playing for Switzerland againt the USA, Roger is my favorite of all times so I can’t just switch my feelings off and root against Roger just because he’s playing my home country. I still will root for Roger against whomever he is playing.

August 3rd, 2009 at 8:29 pm

Two Cents:

Thank you for your nice post on the other thread, from which I’ve decided would be best to refrain posting on, and to leave alone. I’ve missed our interaction of late considering your scarcity, but glad to see you back. Here’s a Sonnet, which I feel is appropos in many respects, compliments of our favourite poet, whom we both love.

‘Tis better to be vile than vile esteemed,
When not to be received reproach of being,
And the just pleasure lost, which is so deemed
Not by our feeling, but by others’ seeing.
For why should others’ false adulterate eyes
Give salutation to my sportive blood?’
“Sonnet 121,” 1–6

This is in line with your statement to ‘have fun here’ which I intend to do henceforth, despite the poison arrows. LOL.

August 3rd, 2009 at 8:30 pm

Long Live:

Thank you for your support on the other thread, it means a lot coming from my long time sparring buddy. LOL.

So, tell me, what/which outfit you’re going to wear when we play our match and at which venue, Flushing Meadows? I’ve got a wonderful crowd lined up, not to mention MY outfit. Remember hon, you’ll have to be gentle as usual, cause I’m a delicate flower. LOL. That said, I’m trembling with excitement and breathless anticipation just thinking of what will and could be. LOL. Catch ya later!

August 3rd, 2009 at 8:38 pm

“Ouch, not even a MENTION of Andy Roddick, who has embraced his role over the years as the top U.S. player, on the court and in the media? Ouch again.”

Keeping in line with my Roddick defense, I don’t think Roddick was ‘dissed’ per se, if we were to read the whole article instead of the piece of selective quote (sensationalsim), per the link below. Under top stories click on ‘Grass roots courting marks the return of US Tennis’.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/

August 3rd, 2009 at 8:53 pm

One step omitted, first click on Tennis, then under top stories, click on ‘Grass roots ….’

August 3rd, 2009 at 8:55 pm

Veno: “…glad you read my post on the other thread…for some reason most people just like to bash each other and other people’s favourites(so futile, it brings nothing, just waisted energy imo; I guess they use it to vent or something)that when you post an opinion, stated subjectively, but from an external point of view hardly any discussion or debate is initiated. Pity, cause I always thought that’s the most fun in written blogs. But hey, it’s ok…Everybody’s entitled to write what they like of course…”

Well, there are many wolves who clothe themselves in sheep’s clothing, thus one needs to read more on the blogs, be perceptive and cultivate a good memory, or else we could easily come to a wrong conclusion, and that indeed would be wasted time.

August 3rd, 2009 at 10:06 pm

“Well, there are many wolves who clothe themselves in sheep’s clothing, thus one needs to read more on the blogs, be perceptive and cultivate a good memory, or else we could easily come to a wrong conclusion, and that indeed would be wasted time.”.

Pure Von. But who is the wolf? I make my response to another Von tirade in: “Opinion: Which Roddick will Show up at Washington?” And I conclude with an offer which could actually have the effect of changing attitudes. But there must be some insight into one’s own behaviour.

August 4th, 2009 at 5:23 am

I, too, am of the opinion that the Davis Cup is irrelevant considering the way it is being run. Maybe many years ago, it had some relevance but right now, it is a mess and serves no value. That is how I see it and I believe a lot of sports fans in general. Noboby but the most devoted tennis fans pay any attention to it. You could not even find it on TV. TV ratings must be horrible.

August 4th, 2009 at 7:59 am

grendel:

Please tell me why do you keep following me around from thread to thread picking on my comments to other posters in which your name is NOT mentioned and you are NOT the topic of my post? Is it that you have nothing to do or are you just out and out cantankerous, and for what reason? Or is it that you so desperately need some attention and you’re feeling deprived?

Tell me what business is it of yours as to whom I’m talking about in my comments to Veno on August 3rd @ 10:06 pm on this thread, which again, has no connection whatsoever with you? I believe that’s between Veno and myself. But that’s not really the point is it? You craftily wanted to draw attention to what you call my ‘tirade’ on the thread you mentioned, viz: “Opinion: Which Roddick will Show up at Washington?”, which was in response to your comments again, and where again, I had a discussion with Veno and your name was again, NOT mentioned.

Following my response to Veno on the “Opinion: which Roddick” thread, you again launched an attack on me and in part on Veno as well, with respect to our discussion, which I answered last night and you’re now dubbing it as ‘my tirade”. Had you not pursued me and picked on my comments, I would not have had any reason to answer you, but did so because you used my name in your response, and it seems that ignoring you is an exercise in futility. You’ve posted 5 times to me over the past 4 days, in I’ve answered you on three of those.

Whatever has transpired between you and me grendel, is due again to your meddlesome behaviour which began with a disagreement I had with Polo, (a matter Polo instigated by calling me a hypocrite due to my comments to Sean) in which case you saw fit to be his mouthpiece and champion his cause, even though he’s quite capable of defending himself, considering he likes to wage wars. You got into the middle of that situation under the guise and pretense that you feel I’m a bully and you think it’s wrong that I’m pointing out Polo’s inconsistencies, which again, is NONE OF YOUR DAMN BUSINESS. You also persist on repeatedly including my disagreement Zola, again under the pretext that you care about Zola’s feelings, which I find to be ludicrous, considering the history you two have had in the past, long before I began posting here and one which has continued until she left.

You might fool those new posters who don’t know you, but the older posters, I’m positive are aware that you just love a good old brawl and you’ll persecute your target until you get a rise out of them. This is all done under the pretext similar to that which you began with respect to Polo and you’ll bring in and/or drop other posters names to give you leverage against your opponent, which in this case happens to be me.

I don’t know if others see through this game that you play, in which you try to project this image and put on this show that you’re being fair-minded, whereby you feel it’s your bounden duty to do right by them by paining my character as black as you can. Not to mention the fact that you want to become another’s redeemer due to what you call my ‘bullying’, when it’s you who’s bullying me, but I suppose you think by so doing you’re earning some kudos. You portray yourself as some divine saviour who doesn’t like to hear lies and see wrongdoing, when you in fact are the BIGGEST offender, liar and exaggerator, and it’s always the other person’s fault.

As I said, I don’t know what’s your problem, and it’s really none of your damn business what I post to another poster, and I would appreciate your leaving me ALONE. I avoid your comments and most of the time scroll past them, unless I see my name included. I don’t instigate the arguments you do by going into a dissertation while demonizing me, and the only reason can I think of is that you’re somewhat touched in the head and are only happy when you’re embroiled in an all out, knock down, drag out war. BTW, the demonizing you do with respect to me, does not make me look bad, it makes you appear to be a nut-job and someone who has some slack screws in your head that desperately need to be tightened. And, you’ll find that those who agree with you, are just as crazed as you are. I doubt that a decent and fair-minded person would find your persecution of me to be right and normal.

I don’t know what clout you have with the moderators on this site, but I think they need to do their jobs by putting a stop to your harassment and disgusting behaviour.

August 4th, 2009 at 10:22 am

Federer Streak:

“…nationalist fervor in other events is less acrimonious and less violent than davis cup, esp between two neighboring countries.”

I don’t recall there being violent incidents at Davis Cup matches. I do recall a quite gruesome (by tennis standards) incident at the Australian Open this year (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fiiCv71qzro), so I disagree that it is specifically DAVIS CUP that brings out violent responses.

Of course some fans of some countries are more antagonistic in their support of their own Davis Cup teams, but in the absence of real physical danger to fans, I think that its a side effect that is not as bad as the benefits of national pride through sporting success are good.

One good thing about Davis Cup is it allows tennis playing countries that may not have a lot of players contending for grand slams, to be involved in an international event of interest.

Davis Cup can also help development of tennis in a country – the objective of winning a Davis Cup is far more attainable for players from some countries and as such is a great tool to develop tennis players.

As Jane pointed out, top players do play Davis Cup with the exception of Federer and a couple of other players like Soderling. To me the major value of Davis Cup is tradition, but because the event goes throughout the entire year, injuries and absences can wreak havoc on the event.

If they could get rid of the various rounds except for perhaps one round for qualifiers, and one round for the “finals” (more like the world cup finals) that would heko. As for changes I would make to the calendar I would have the Davis Cup happen over 2 weeks, just like a slam, in late October and get rid of Shanghai – I know that’s where the money is, so you’d probably have to get rid of Paris instead, but one of them could go.

The other options is to get rid of Indian Wells – Miami would be hard to do because it’s so important on the women’s side, but to me the spring hard court season doesn’t make a lot of sense anyway, and I wouldn’t mind having a 2 week Davis Cup tournament. The 2 week Davis Cup tournament could be hosted by a different country every year.

One thing the ATP and WTA have shown is that almost no tournament is indispensible – after years and years they dumped Hamburg in favor of Madrid and suddenly we have Shanghai in the fall in the middle of what used to be a European indoor season. Thus, I don’t think any tournament aside from the slams is indispensible –

The only non-slams I would keep no matter what would be those with tradition, like the Italian Open, Monte Carlo and maybe Bercy (Paris), but that’s just personal opinion – truth be known any one of them could go.

One last thing before I forget: you seem to be a bit defensive about the fact that I have disagreed with you – but you needn’t be. You are entitled to your opinion, of course, so there is no need to insist on this right as though I have in some way attempted to take it away from you – I certainly have done no such thing.

If I said something that suggested you’re not entitled to your opinion, it was not intentional and you can feel free to disregard it.

August 4th, 2009 at 10:24 am

grendel said: “Another possibility is that just as McEnroe learnt how to beat Lendl, Federer will do the same with Nadal. Change always seems improbable until it happens. Then it seems as if it was inevitable.”

That rivalry is quite unique in that it had 3 separate periods of dominance.

After losing the first 2 Lendl won the next 7 in a row between 1981 and 1982 – McEnroe was #1 in the world at the time but Lendl eventually took it away from him in 1983. McEnroe then adjusted his tactics and took 8 of the next 9 – this also coincided with him reclaiming the #1 ranking.

Then Lendl took on Tony Roche as a coach, improved his all-around game and they split the next 8, including the US Open final in 1985, which Lendl won and again claimed the #1 ranking.

McEnroe took a sabaatical in 1986 and they didn’t actually play again until the summer of 1987 at Stratton Mountain in Vermont, but starting with that win, Lendl took 10 of the last 11 matches they played.

The historical view of rivalries usually doesn’t entail multiple shifts between dominance and equanimity, so this rivalry was indeed unique in that sense.

By the way, Lendl is only 1 year younger than McEnroe.

August 4th, 2009 at 10:53 am

Does anyone know of any live streaming for today’s Legg Mason matches? Thanks.

August 4th, 2009 at 10:57 am

Ivanisevic thinks Roddick can still Wimby but it would probabaly take him 3 years to recover from his loss.

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/04082009/58/wimbledon-ivanisevic-Roddick-win-sw19.html

Safina wants credit as the No. 1 WTA player:

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/04082009/58/safina-wants-credit-true-number.html

August 4th, 2009 at 11:15 am

Grendel,

please refrain from butting in(rather aggressively) my conversations with Von, and using a remark/post directed at me(She wrote: Veno,….) to attack Von’s personality and integrity. All your posts of the past coupe of days show you pointing your finger at Von, but I urge you to read your own arguments and apply the criticisms you accuse Von of, to yourself. Self reflection is so much harder than criticizing another person who you deem flawed. Let both of you respect each other’s wishes and leave each other alone. It brings nothing and although you don’t agree with Von and lambaste her, she has always spoken her mind, fought her own literate battles, so why do you feel compelled to step in and champion other people’s disagreements or tanglements they have with Von. Put that energy to better use and write about tennis. Enough said of the matter…Let’s move on…Great tennis weeks ahead of us.

August 4th, 2009 at 11:46 am

Von, the Ivanisevic link isn’t correct…

August 4th, 2009 at 11:47 am

Veno:

Let’s try again:

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/04082009/58/wimbledon-ivanisevic-roddick-win-sw19.html

August 4th, 2009 at 12:02 pm

Alright Veno, the above link works. Try it again and thanks.

August 4th, 2009 at 12:04 pm

Roddick says: “I’m not expecting to pick up where I left off a month ago,” he said. “I’d love to get off to a great start. But it would be presumptuous of me to expect that in my first match.” Fair enough.

August 4th, 2009 at 12:16 pm

Von: I just read your rambling on the other thread where you accuse me of being someone with whom you crossed swords recently. I can assure you that I am not your nemesis. Your paranoia is clearly evident.

Regarding the poison pill: I was recommending that Grendel swallow said pill because it was surely a shorter (and more pleasant) demise than having to suffer through your convoluted, interminable rebuttals.

Carry on!

August 4th, 2009 at 12:45 pm

Interesting view from Goran in that article Von, but the contents mean nothing imho. He’s just looking in hindsight and points out some similarities. I doubt andy would have to recover 3 yrs, totally different player and personality. Goran was only a contender at Wimbledon, he knew so and that’s why it haunted him so much longer. Andy will think back to that volley a couple of times, sure, but his mind is already focussed on the summer hard court season.

August 4th, 2009 at 1:19 pm

Big difference between Goran and Andy’s case is: Andy already has 1 slam, Davis Cup, #1 ranking and most importantly, a very stable/happy personal life. So Wimby win would have been the icing on the cake. But he still has shot at it for couple more years.

August 4th, 2009 at 1:55 pm

Von

I did not attack Veno in any sense. I butted in (as Veno put it) for reasons you understand well. Don’t pretend your words were aimed only for Veno, you won’t get too many people to believe that. This is one dispute only, even if it has spread over more than one thread. Nothing is ever straightforward with you; one observes you, with a certain fascination, garnering support, almost like a politician gladhanding. That’s what you do, it’s your way of fighting, surrounding yourself with a kind of guard. Honest debate is something you avoid unless you are sure you can win. I can’t compete with that, not that I would if I could. You fight like a lawyer, which you say you are. Truth is irrelevant unless it is seen as helpful to the cause.

Almost everything you say is false in a peculiar way. You twist things of their meaning to gain the greatest leverage, truth you avoid like the plague. Your only concern is to utterly destroy and demonise your opponent, which is something you are very clever at doing – but you tend not to go at full steam until you are sure of your support, which as I say you carefully cultivate. It’s quite something, it’s kind of brilliant, and I really doubt that I can handle it. Almost nothing I say means anything: it’s either ignored if it’s too difficult to deal with or it doesn’t matter because it’s simply a discredited nutter speaking. You’re an incredibly impressive polemicist, but, posters should bear in mind, the Von demolition method would never work in, say, an academic forum. It works perfectly here where Von is insulated just as she might wish. Why, why does one not remember that Von is indeed unique, not only without scruple, but – once she’s got the confidence flowing – without any concept of what she does. Like all the very best actors, in a weird way she believes in what she’s saying. Once she’s got cracking, and dispelled the intitial lack of confidence, she inhabits a kind of bubble of innocence. It’s deeply effective, and almost impossible to counter.

Still, I’ll have a go, however pointless. Of course the post on the other thread was a “tirade”. Just read it. But again, Von in full self-righteous mode probably doesn’t think it is.
There’s a lot about “none of my dammned business” (in capitals). Well, that’s the point, isn’t it? I have submitted that Von is a quite unspeakble bully who causes a lot of heartache; that is everybody’s business. Consider this interference : “my disagreement Zola, again under the pretext that you care about Zola’s feelings, which I find to be ludicrous, considering the history you two have had in the past”. Disagreement! Nice try! A prolonged verbal assult stretching over months which amounted to a form of psychological terrorism. No one intervened, not one of Tennisx’s finest hours. But in a sense, here we have the nub of the problem. Because I had had many arguments with Zola, by definition I could not care about her feelings. This is such an ignorant assessment of how human relations work (but quite in keeping with the totalitarian mind set Von displays again and again) that one can only assume Von briefly lost the plot. What she really means, of course, is that someone like me, that is, someone who “just love a good old brawl and you’ll persecute your target until you get a rise out of them.” could not possibly have humane feelings. If I say, I did feel bad about it, time and time again – well, first of all, Von will ignore it if she can, otherwise she’ll just cast it under the case heading “examples of grendel’s lying”. All I can say is, I felt very bad about it indeed. Why did I not intervene? For most of that time, I was having an uneasy sort of reconciliation with Von, and I was reluctant to jeopardise it – although, of course, Von will naturally either ignore this or dismiss it as nonsense. But it’s just true. I am not an addict to brawling, that is an utterly naive (at best) charecterisation of me. I loathe brawls, feel bad about them for days, but have a habit of falling into them – that is definitely true. Again, you see, supposing Von just changed, and you could see she made a real effort. Then suppose someone just gratuitously attacked her as if everything was the same – I would feel bad about that, it’s just the way it is. For someone who claims to like Shakespeare, who saw more deeply into the human heart than most, Von is either very ignorant about human nature or – it’s just convenient polemics again, you never can tell with her.

One last example about my “meddlesomeness”and I’m done. “disagreement I had with Polo, (a matter Polo instigated by calling me a hypocrite due to my comments to Sean) in which case you saw fit to be his mouthpiece and champion his cause, even though he’s quite capable of defending himself, considering he likes to wage wars” In my view, Polo did not instigate this, he was still smarting from Von’s typical sly tactics of quoting Polo when he had a different view, the idea being to mock his inconsistency. This, from someone who moved from hating Federer to hating Djokovic, then back to Federer again, then hating Nadal, and finally back home to old faithful! This from someone who vigorously defended Sean from “harassing” posters! And so on. b.t.w., although Von’s inconsistencies are massive and truly bizarre, I don’t think inconsistency in itself is a fault. Change of mind is hardly culpable. The business about Polo liking to wage wars is just false, as Von knows. He is generally a quiet poster which is why, b.t.w., I don’t suppose he’ll be overpleased by my dragging him in – I get the feeling he probably thinks “a plague on both houses”. My “meddlesomeness” here was a general one – I’ve been subject to this kind of tactic from Von, and I think it is dubious at best, and outrageous with a quiet poster like Polo and having but one intention – to shut him up.

That’s why I interfere. Clearly this can’t go on. It’s true people can scroll down, but nevertheless bad feeling is created. I have offered Von a way of getting out of it, to see if a quiet debate could not be possible. Of course she has ignored it, it’s just not Von’s way to compromise. That assumes she is, to a degree, at fault, ans she will never admit that, not the smallest concession. She will never be satisfied with less than demolition, utter destruction of character – and meanwhile, vehement protestations of innocence as if all this hullabaloo has nothing whatever to do with her. Von is persecuted, Von is harassed. It’s the perfect alibi. Getting in a fight with Von is a bit like drowning in blancmange. It’s completely perplexing.

August 4th, 2009 at 2:03 pm

I believe that Lendl was way underrated. He was a great champion and a very smart guy who was not but should have been appreciated more by the media.

August 4th, 2009 at 2:23 pm

tennisontherocks: “Big difference between Goran and Andy’s case is: Andy already has 1 slam, Davis Cup, #1 ranking and most importantly, a very stable/happy personal life. So Wimby win would have been the icing on the cake. But he still has shot at it for couple more years.”

I also think from the beginning Roddick has been much stronger mentally than Ivanisevic ever was. I think it was the interview with Stefanki where he said Roddick considered quitting after the loss to Gasquet in 08′, which was a real collapse.

Reeling from that loss, and not like the one to Federer, to me, is more in line with someone with Roddick’s mentality. I would think he’d hate choking away a lead to a player he feels he should beat regularly, more than playing well and losing a close one to one of the all time greats.

August 4th, 2009 at 2:30 pm

Maybe so Marcus, but Lendl made it very hard to like him. He was a great tennis player, very very dedicated, but very uncharismatic and robot like. It also didn’t help he had a mean attitude on court and towards other players.

August 4th, 2009 at 2:31 pm

Marcus said: “I believe that Lendl was way underrated. He was a great champion and a very smart guy who was not but should have been appreciated more by the media.”

Agreed – take a look at this cover and article from Sports Illustrated in 1986:

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/cover/toc/9028/index.htm

Brutal.

There is another article about him that’s more sympathetic – delves into his relationship with his parents, particularly his mother who was once ranked #2 in Czechoslovakia, his acclimation to life in the US, and how he became a self-made man through tennis. That one is more sympathetic, but that cover is just dastardly.

August 4th, 2009 at 2:37 pm

I don’t know if Lendl had a mean attitude on court or towards other players. If he had, I did not notice it. What I saw was he was very focused and all business when he played. He did not resort to any goofy or grandstanding tactics to get the fans to his side the way somebody like Connors did. I think the media created a negative image of him which may have affected the fans perception of him. And at that time, his main rivals were Americans like Connors and McEnroe who always got better treatment from the press.

August 4th, 2009 at 2:58 pm

If Roddick will win another major, this coming US Open may be his best chance. His main opponents by have some distractions: Federer his twins, Nadal his two knees. Murray may still get nervous, Djokovic gets easily distracted. I think he can handle del Potro even if the latter has nothing to distract him. The rest, I believe, Roddick is better especially at the US Open.

August 4th, 2009 at 3:05 pm

Marcus and MMT, I agree with you both…
But it was like that in the day. I saw Lendl play in those years and it was hard to root for him. He was a great tennis player and tennis wise he hasn’t gotten and still doesn’t get his juste deserves(only remember 8 straight USO finals from ’82-’89 and 9 straight YEC finals ’80-’88 and: beginning with the 1982 US Open and extending through the 1991 US Open, Lendl reached at least the semifinals in 27 of the 34 Grand Slam tournaments he played….WOW!!!!!!)
He was and still is(also by his own admission) not very sociably aware and he doesn’t care. I by no means mean to say he’s a bad person, because I don’t think he is. Reading and seeing interviews of him post-career makes me think he’s a very interesting man and his life story is great! He has 4 beautiful daughters and a good life which he certainly deserves.

August 4th, 2009 at 3:30 pm

I am glad to know that there are people who appreciate Lendl. I am sure that there are many more out there.

August 4th, 2009 at 3:34 pm

Marcus see the clip below:

Gives a good idea about the tension between J-Mac and Ivan back in the day: This is something Ivan used to do a lot; it is allowed :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5xAPwx3z950

August 4th, 2009 at 3:41 pm

Thanks for the clip. It is allowed because the object of the game is to win the point and sometimes, you just have to put the ball where your opponent cannot return it. Lendl probably dedicated that point to all the umpires. Hahaha!

August 4th, 2009 at 3:53 pm

probably already seen this but I think it’s hilarious

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SwkpYD-_vrk&feature=related

August 4th, 2009 at 4:19 pm

another good 1:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fu9REjkzhE&NR=1&feature=fvwp

August 4th, 2009 at 4:22 pm

Veno, LOL LOL. Those clips are great. Never seen them before so its very good to see them here.

August 4th, 2009 at 6:36 pm

you’re welcome Kimmi!

Very frustrating we have no coverage of Legg Mason, not even highlights or reruns the day after boohooo

August 4th, 2009 at 7:09 pm

Veno: thanks for sharing those clips. I particularly liked the Borg/Mcenroe commercial.

I’m about to pull my hair out, like you, I’d love to see Roddick play tonight. I can’t even get the live scores feature to work. Are you having that problem?

August 4th, 2009 at 7:14 pm

re Legg mason coverage…I know, I know, I looked and looked…some good matches are playing and they start to show on friday @#$%??&&….well, just for consolation, from this fraday it will be tennis everyday for 2.5 weeks ..yeeeeepee !

August 4th, 2009 at 7:17 pm

Not here Kimmi, I have to wait til the USO :(
Von, I liked the Borg-Mcenroe one, the other was just for some fun…

I posted on the Fed Haters Feeling…my thoughts on the Tiger-Roger comparison….see what you think(it has no relevance to me, but thought I’d share my view if asked the question)

The live scores work here Von…But Andy doesn’t play until tomorro, cause the Becker-Ginepri match just ended…3 tiebreakers, unfortunately Robby lost(he came back in set 2 and 3 after a break down)

August 4th, 2009 at 7:24 pm

Amazing, Cilic lost the first set to 5 against India’s Somdev Devvarman!!!!!!

August 4th, 2009 at 7:27 pm

Veno: Ref: Legg Mason, the cameras are now covered which means there isn’t any coverage until Friday, and then you’ll be able to see it on ADTHE.net, so be prepared. Some of the matches will be shown on ESPN2 and the Tennis channel here in the US, which means I won’t have to sit at my computer and watch live streaming for 3 days, alleluia. However, the way I’m feeling so desperate tonight, I’d welcome live streaming now. LOL.

I don’t think it’s a good thing for Roddick to play tomorrow, because that would mean he’d have to play everyday and that’s tiring.

“I posted on the Fed Haters Feeling…my thoughts on the Tiger-Roger comparison….see what you think(it has no relevance to me, but thought I’d share my view if asked the question”

Yes, I saw the discussion on the comparisons and it was interesting. I’m glad you’re able to share your tennis knowledge with so many — good job, Veno.

August 4th, 2009 at 7:33 pm

I was hoping Cilic would win, but it doesn’t look good if he’s losing to Devvarman. My live scores is now working. alleluia. Gosh it’s humorous that I’m happy about LIVE SCORES — desperation is kicking in big time.

August 4th, 2009 at 7:35 pm

I hear ya Von, very annoying, but look at he little bright side that so far Grendel hasn’t roared his …. head :) Juan Carlos and Lapenti at 1-1…some good match play going on….Schuettler-Mayer also locked at 1-1

August 4th, 2009 at 7:40 pm

Veno: “I hear ya Von, very annoying, but look at he little bright side that so far Grendel hasn’t roared his …. head :)”

Didn’t you see the last dissertation @ 2:03 pm? I saw the length of it and then my name and hit the scroll button because I knew it wouldn’t be good. I don’t even want to read. It’s been about the what the sixth one since Saturday. WOW and LOL. I saw on the other thread the guy finally said all those endless comparisons on Sampras was just ‘fun’ for him. OY VEY & LOL.

August 4th, 2009 at 7:49 pm

“Not here Kimmi, I have to wait til the USO :(”

In canada we also don’t get any tennis except GS, I told myself I will not surfer because I love tennis too much. The free live streaming is not guaranteed and sometimes quality very poor. Tennistv is respectable website, if any problems you can send them email, they will try to fix your problems and if their problem they will admit it and extend the contract. The quality is HD, super clear like TV. … I paid for both WTA and ATP and 126$ a year to me is worth it, you can also get ATP only (they show all 1000 and 500) which is 87 $/ year I think.

BTW tennistv is not paying me for saying this.

August 4th, 2009 at 7:51 pm

Oh wow, Devvarman broke Cilic again. I suppose Dr. I. LOL.vo is licking his lips by now

August 4th, 2009 at 7:52 pm

Veno: Cilic is really playing badly; from the scores Devvarman is in every one of Cilic’s service games. And, the ‘mosquito’ has broken Lapenti in the 3rd. I read once that Kournikova dated Llapenti when she was on the tour, did you know that?

August 4th, 2009 at 7:59 pm

Pure entertainment sometimes….I stopped reading Grendel’s posts about you because I’ll finish a 300-page book faster than plowing through his “dissertations”(great description lool)

These people are called dark-ghosts when recognized in an organisation(which is always interactive and dynamic) and should be removed from the organization if you want to prevent them from having a devastating effect on organisational performance.

Yeah, had a good out-loud thinking ehhh writing session about Fed-Sampras and for some reason he replied to me, I was saying that the issue was apparently important to him, that it wasn’t….That caught me a little by surprise, just because of the quantity and repetitiveness of his posts concerning the issue, but that’s ok…I like a good debate now and then :)

Oh my god, Somdev is serving for it….Alas, Cilic is about to disappoint again…amazing…

August 4th, 2009 at 8:00 pm

Cilic broke back. Is he waking up?
And Juan Carlos solidified his break.
And no, I didn’t know AK dated Lapenti….
Anna didn’t get more than a raised eyebrow the few times I saw her play. Didn’t follow her on and off court business….
Mighty cute though….Could have worked with her on some basics of…..tennis to improve her mental toughness :)

August 4th, 2009 at 8:04 pm

Cilic hits 8 aces, over 50% 1st serves and wins only 59%!!!!!! of first serves…..Could Somdev have an Agassi-like return? I doubt it….Cilic must be making a lot of UE…

August 4th, 2009 at 8:07 pm

Just to correct myself, in canada they also show very few matches on MS tourney, if we are lucky… semis and finals will be live but most of the time matches are delayed except ROGERS cup ofcourse which almost every match is 100% live.

August 4th, 2009 at 8:12 pm

Kimmi, you Canadian! How cool…..Love Canada!!!
My ex is Candian. Still planning in the future to move to your beautiful country!!!!!!
Go Canucks!!!!!!!!

August 4th, 2009 at 8:13 pm

The sad part about all those dissertations is that some people believe that stuff and judge rather harshly based on what they read to be the gospel truth. I’ve had to deal with those sidings before where others said they can see it as true, and they gang up. That’s OK because I’m not running for public office so they can believe whatever they want. I fell in the end the truth comes out and the ones who join the gang lose out but that’s their problem. Glad to see you’re more discerning and can see beyond fiction. The only thing that satisfies my judge is for me to leave and he’ll only stop when that happens. He’ll be back later because it’s bed time in his country. It’s amazing and sick!

Devvarman won!!

The mosquito seems to have his match under control and Cilic held serve after being down break point.

August 4th, 2009 at 8:13 pm

Veno, I also move here now about 4 years ago. and I love it. You are definetly welcome.. there is a big place here for you.

August 4th, 2009 at 8:19 pm

Gee Veno, I had thought I’d be able to get you to move to my beautiful HOT state, Florida. LOL. I used to live in NYC, which is close in temperature to Canada and I got to dislike the winters with a passion after visiting beautiful Florida. South beach florida ais hot with action for a young man such as yourself. I don’t know what time of year you visited my state, but we get all the Northerners here in the winter, many of whom own a second home here. Our winters are BU-T-FUL!. My ex-brother-in-law Rhine (your countryman) loved NYC and loves Florida even more.

August 4th, 2009 at 8:20 pm

And, the mosquito wins!!!

August 4th, 2009 at 8:22 pm

Ferrero on fire, he is moving back up the ranking very quickly.

August 4th, 2009 at 8:26 pm

As you shouldn’t Von(btw,thought I would get a woman’s remark from you concerning my reaction to AK hehehe)
I have never had trouble seeing through people(even if I don’t know them personally) if they use argumentation and/or the semantics in discussions with another goal than to make common their point of view regarding whatever topic. The more erudite the person tries to be and the more exclusive proze he/she uses in debate about regular and secular affairs the less serious I take their account to be truthful. I like it better when people don’t hide behind fancy words(although I have no problem understanding not only the vocabulary or the meaning, even not in my first tongue) and just tell it like it is, rather than to start literate brawls to determine who is the better debater and why they think so.

The only good and useful debate imo(note: not including conversations, which are a whole other ball game) is one where all participants end up with increased knowledge about the specified topics discussed than before they started, regardless whether the participants have reached agreement!

One advice I can offer you my dear Von(not trying to sound like a more-experienced teacher here) is that you can try to recognize their intention earlier(which you probably already are able to) distance yourself emotionally from what said person writes about you and go on blogging as if his/her words were never written :) It will save you a lot of annoyance and energy and you deplete his ammunition to repeatedly counter your rebuttals :)

August 4th, 2009 at 8:30 pm

OMG Veno, he’s still going at it on the other thread. This is unbelievable and I don’t understand this obsession he has to prove me a liar. I admitted that I’m a liar in CAPS to please him so I don’t know what more he wants. I don’t have the stamina for this. I tell you that it’s not going to stop unless I leave for good. Anyway, I’d better not talk any further with you on this, or else you’ll get the brunt of his rants also.

Dancevic and Haas are about to start, man am I livid about not being able to see that match also.

August 4th, 2009 at 8:31 pm

Thanks Kimmi, it’s nice to feel welcome :)

Von, I’ve been to BU-T-FUL Florida in October-November, just after Hurrican season. Loved it there! I’m still a young man, but not so young anymore Von….32
But I’d pick Canada over florida anytime, sorry
Haas-Dancevic started and I have to get to bed….work tomorrow

August 4th, 2009 at 8:34 pm

Von says: Anyway, I’d better not talk any further with you on this, or else you’ll get the brunt of his rants also.
See, this is where I think we differ in approach(this could be attributed to the fact I haven’t had any prior dealings with Grendel) because he won’t be able to touch me if he chooses to rant at me…I will be open to talk tennis and related topics and share opinions with him, but I won’t get into tanglements over nothing with him. Nor will I butt in if you’re going at it with him, but my allegiance lies with you, I’ll have your back and for the rest I’ll just ignore him.

August 4th, 2009 at 8:39 pm

Veno: thanks for sour sound advice. It’s also the reason i mentioned to you in my post oabout the wolves. I’m very observant in many things with respect to people, as it’s part of my profession to piece together profiles. I’ve distanced myself from quite a few and only exchange posts with the ones I feel are fair-minded, can be discerning and not easily swayed.

I mentioned AK and Lapenti because I felt that to be a rather strange two-some even though it’s over, but considering she’s dating Julio Igleasias’ son, I have come to the conclusion that she likes Latin men. A very volatile combination — a Latin and a Russian. Sangria/Tequila and Vodka, woo hoo and oohhhlalalala!! LOL.

The serving giants are going at it now, isner and Querrey — two looongg drinks of water, and then some. LOL. I pick querrey to win this one, even though I’m not rooting for him, but just basing my prediction on both their performances last week. Also, Isner is still recovering from mono and has an injured ankle.

August 4th, 2009 at 8:42 pm

Dunno what you’re watching but they’re doubling against Robredo/Gonzalez….Get off the Tequila/Sangria/Vodka Von….

August 4th, 2009 at 8:52 pm

Haas is already up a break on Dancevic. I made a mistake about Querrey and Isner; they’re playing doubles.

I’d go to Canada also if I were you, especially because you’re a young man and don’t mind the cold. The US has many opportunities also but Canada has a British/European flavour which is very nice. Hey, talking about age, I’m not that old (retirement wise), but I like Florida due to it’s laid back atmosphere, the sunshine, and the cleanliness of the state. Also, I wanted for my kids to grow up in a place where the crime rate was not as high as NYC and they could play all-year round without having to put on a coat.

August 4th, 2009 at 8:52 pm

Oh wow, Haas is creaming Dancevic. Tommy seems to be maintaining his groove since the FO. He’s a dangerous player when he’s on song. I think this tourney will be a difficult one for whomever wins the title.

I see Nestor/Zimonjic are playing also. They have the edge over the Bryans due to their lefty/righty combination, which always spells trouble for the Bryans.

August 4th, 2009 at 8:58 pm

I have discerned already you are very perceptive in recognizing human maneurisms and behaviour from what someone writes and how they write(my vocabulary grows daily just from reading your posts and taking out the Oxford to look up some of the words you use)
However, one of the difficulties eidetekers like you face, is because of the speed with which your brain fills in empty spots in logic or even illogic, is a naturally defensive position when challenged on your logic. Again, this is just stating what I have observed in personal experience with eidetekers I have met and know(my father is one of them) not directed at you to show you I can provide wisdom you should incorporate in your already vast library of knowledge…

August 4th, 2009 at 8:58 pm

Hey Von, the Bryans are lefty/righty combo too :)
It’s just they use the opposite side-placement compared to the Bryans :)

August 4th, 2009 at 9:00 pm

Good to see Dancevic lifting up his level and making a fight of it…

Isno and Sambo won the first

August 4th, 2009 at 9:05 pm

Top players who did not play since wimbledon are coming here a little rusty. If a lower ranked player comes out swinging, they can easily lose…I think thats why Cilic lost (not taking anything away from Davvarman) in straight.

August 4th, 2009 at 9:13 pm

Actually Kimmi, Cilic played 2 rubbers in the DC tie with USA and won both :)

August 4th, 2009 at 9:18 pm

Veno: Yes, the Bryans are a lefty/righty also, but as you mentioned the Nestor/Zimonjic combo use the opposite side placement which is always lethal for the Bryans. I want for the Bryans to beat the Woodys record and then I’ll be happy even if they retire.

You’re right on about filling in the spots very quickly which could be very annoying to the person who is trying to state their position.

Glad to see you’re so wise; I embrace and am thankful for any form of wisdom that’s passed on to me. Also, thanks for your insight and support. I’m also glad to know you have such a wise father. My dad was a math and history genius.

I suppose it’s past your bed time but I guess you’re waiting for Haas/Dancevic to be over. Dancevic is now leading 4-1. It seems that he and Haas have now switched rolls, which translates to a third set might be in the works. Sorry Veno, you’ll have to postpone your bedtime.

August 4th, 2009 at 9:19 pm

Hahaha, Von, likewise regarding your wisdom passed on to me, not to mention the linguistical advancement in English I must be prone to discussing on these blogs :)

It is passed my bedtime but I’ll stretch it…Haas just broke back…

And agree on the Bryans….would be nice to see them break the Woodies’record. But having seen the Woodies play, they shouldn’t feel ashamed if they won’t be able. And Nestor-Zimonjic seem to have their number, for now!
The Wimby final was high class from both!!! Loved watching it!!!!

August 4th, 2009 at 9:25 pm

Bummer ! thanks Veno. here I was looking for excuses for Cilic, I think i just run out of them. Congratulation davvarman.

August 4th, 2009 at 9:28 pm

It’s such a shame that Cilic isn’t able to put his talent into results. He has everything, yet agonisingly he fails to deliver time and time again….

August 4th, 2009 at 9:33 pm

Exactly ! I keep waiting for that break thru, I always compare him to JMDP but Potro has proven much more. I enjoyed his nail biting match with Haas at wimbledon though, he was sooo close.

He is probably a late bloomer like Mr Fed… how old Cilic is ..20..

August 4th, 2009 at 9:38 pm

Yup 20, will turn 21 after the USO..

He still has time, but he has to start making moves…Remember, Fed was a late bloomer considering how talented he was…But already beat Pete at Wimby as a 19 year old and those kinds of results help form you as a player imo

August 4th, 2009 at 9:40 pm

Veno: Cilic still has to learn how to be selective in his shot making/placement and point construction. He has a tendency to hit out ala Blake and Gonzo at times and it’s one of the reasons his matches are filled with UEs. Gulbis is similar to Cilic in over-hitting, and gives very little thought to constructing the point and following through. It’s a learning curve which they need to master, but they have time in their favour, and will do so in a year or two.

Sorry Veno, Dancevic won the second set. Wouldn’t this have been a great match to see on TV? What a shame! I’m sorry, but i just don’t understand the reasoning behind the blackout of these tourneys. Montreal and Cincy won’t have blackouts and will be broadcasted on TV and live streaming, so keep ADTHE.net’s web address handy.

August 4th, 2009 at 9:43 pm

Yes, Mr Federer..my favorite. In his early days he had so many options and did not know which one to use at crunch time..but once he find himself out, nothing could stop him. Amazing.

Hope he is not too rusty at Montreal…

August 4th, 2009 at 9:45 pm

Veno: I have to leave in a few minutes, so I’ll just say bon soir. Have some vino before you retire. Remember: in vino veritas — manana.

August 4th, 2009 at 9:48 pm

Happy to see Frankie take a set; I’d love to see him pull this one out, but experience definitely goes to Haas.

August 4th, 2009 at 9:51 pm

Yup, ADTHE already bookmarked on my comp :)

And I agree on your assessment of Cilic’s shotmaking not being constructive or polished yet…He has time. Dunno about Gulbis, don’t think he has what it takes to make it…

August 4th, 2009 at 9:54 pm

hi jane, Frankie shines in american HC. He could win it, he started a little slow but he is picking up speed now but I love Haas too. Its looking to be a cracker.

August 4th, 2009 at 9:56 pm

True Kimmi, but Fed has trained with Koubek for almost a week last week, so I think he’ll be fine in Montreal.

Good night Von, has been fun….it’s nighty night for me too…close to 4 am here…

August 4th, 2009 at 9:57 pm

Veno:”True Kimmi, but Fed has trained with Koubek for almost a week last week, so I think he’ll be fine in Montreal.”

How do you know this..I thought he will be changing nappies ?

August 4th, 2009 at 9:59 pm

G nite Veno

August 4th, 2009 at 10:00 pm

Jane – am torn between who I want to win this. Am a Haas girl from way back but appreciate Frankie’s game once again having seen him at Indy (and that fantastic mandarin orange tennis outfit). Just can’t decide……

August 4th, 2009 at 10:06 pm

aaaaah break for Haas, you are right Jane, looks like experience will prevail here.

August 4th, 2009 at 10:14 pm

Crap!

August 4th, 2009 at 10:22 pm

Jane – Frank will probably get a WC for Montreal, yes? but what about Cincy? Has he done well enough this summer to skip qualifying? Too bad he had to meet Haas so early in DC.

August 4th, 2009 at 10:26 pm

Ooops, Del Potro lost the 1st set

August 4th, 2009 at 11:36 pm

Gulbis loses again…….Ernie, where are you? Would have been nice to have seen this match vs Berdych. Congrats to Tomas.

August 4th, 2009 at 11:50 pm

Hi folks – Frankie didn’t win, but it was tight.

Yes tenisbebe, Frankie will get a spot at Roger’s Cup, but I am not sure about Cincy; he got to the semis at Indy this year, but lost early here (and in L.A., or did he play in L.A.? Can’t remember). Amyhow, too bad he had a tough first-rounder with Haas.

I agree with Veno’s assesment re: Cilic and Gulbis. I have more faith that Cilic will break through. After seeing the way he played at the last two slams, he was just a little behind. His matches with Querrey and Haas at Wimbledon were two of my favorites of that event – both nail biting 5 setters. Gulbis, on the other hand, is so streaky, whereas I think Cilic is just finding his way. He’s also more determined, seemingly. I am not sure how “hungry” Ernie is. I wish he was a little more motivated, though, because he’s got some fantastic shots. And his smile is killer.

August 5th, 2009 at 12:16 am

“but lost early here (and in L.A., or did he play in L.A.? Can’t remember” Dancevic

Yes, he played LA and lost early there to Bagdatis.

DelPo is finally getting his act together and is up a break in the third.

August 5th, 2009 at 12:30 am

tenisbebe: Saw your post on the other thread in answer to mine ref: your departure for Cincy. I envy your being there, but on the other hand not so much due to the heat. I have a feeling that it won’t be as sizzling hot as last year though. I base this thought process on the pleasant weather at Indy two weeks ago and temperature in my own state, which has not been as hot as compared to last year around this time. Therefore, here’s hoping that the temperature at Cincy will be pleasant and bearable for you. Remember, I’m looking forward to a blow by blow commentary, especially if you happen to run into you know who. LOL.

August 5th, 2009 at 12:34 am

That young guy Lu has a pretty good game, except he lacks the stamina to go the distance. He starts off very well, but after one and one-half sets he begins to fade miserably and that’s where his opponents are able to capitalize on breaking him and winning the subsequent sets. DelPotro’s performance (his service games) is indicative of some rust from having not played for quite a few weeks.

August 5th, 2009 at 12:38 am

Marcus, I liked Lendl way back, but weirdly I also liked Mcenroe. Which meant I actually enjoyed that rivalry quite a bit, as I didn’t care about the swinging pendulum of wins/losses and dominance.

MMT, what a brutal SI cover! I would imagine a few fans protested that one. Sheesh.

August 5th, 2009 at 12:27 pm

Veno: here’s some news on ‘our’ girl Cirstea. I say ‘our’ because I like her and am keeping a close eye on her, and you also mentioned her (you seemed besotted) when she played doubles with Kirilenko. ha ha.

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/05082009/58/tennis-spy-sorana-cirstea.html

A grown up Roddick. some doubted his injuries last year at Wimby and the USO, well Roddick says he was injured during the last six months (which is June through December) of the year and that includes Wimby and the USO, yes? Hence I wasn’t making unwarranted excuses but stated ‘facts’. How djya like them apples, Sean Randall? Wanna retract ‘Roddick stunk up Wimbledon’? Nah, never wrong! Gotta love these just deserts!

“Toward the last six months of last year I felt I was going the wrong way,” he said at the Legg Mason Tennis Classic in Washington, where he is the top seed. “I dealt with some injuries. Then you start dealing with self-belief. Then you come back and take it on the chin a couple of times.”

And for proof, here’s the link:

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/03082009/58/grown-roddick-eyes-open.html

August 5th, 2009 at 12:32 pm

Nice one Von and yesssss I was besotted by Cirstea-Kirilenko :-D

Nice link….it says: “the second, her stunning looks, which made her the ideal poster girl in the absence of injured Maria Sharapova.”

YOU CANNOT BE SERIOUS!!!!!!! Sharapova not even in Cirstea’s class when comparing their beauty…Ok, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, but come on!!!!!! Sorana is a natural beauty, like Kirilenko and Sharapova doesn’t look too bad……
Sharapova is marketed well as a pretty woman(not in the least because she’s 6″2′ and athletic)and everyone is entitled to disagree with me, but

August 5th, 2009 at 12:56 pm

…Sorana is a stunning young woman and more talented a tennis player than also stunning Anna Kournikova was(and still is)

August 5th, 2009 at 12:59 pm

Veno: I guess you know by now that I think the shrieka’s looks are overrated and so is her tennis.

Cirstea trumps quite a few of the women on the WTA in looks IMO, but I’m a woman so you can’t go by my preference, which is kinda personal anyway. And, that’s for me to know and you to find out. LOL.

BTW, did you read the article on Roddick?

August 5th, 2009 at 1:02 pm

Yes I did…classic Roddick…loved it…Sounds like he has a perfect realistic mindset going into competition again…

I have given my detailed opinion about Shriekapova in a previous thread and as you also know, not a fan at all(looks or tennis)

Love Sorana because her beauty is just gravy. I really like her tennis!!!!!!

August 5th, 2009 at 1:35 pm

Von, here’s an even better one from Roddick

http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5i3L69372Hx5LJ2fqR0E7fRvrja5w

August 5th, 2009 at 2:12 pm

Veno: Thanks, and I appreciate it. I like the following answer:

Asked how he got over the loss, Roddick replied, “I’ll keep you posted.”

So, Roddick-like. LOL.

August 5th, 2009 at 2:23 pm

True, but to me the following is classic Roddick(shows his personality)

“Was it the greatest loss I’ve had as far as afterward?… Yeah, that hurt. But at the same time it’s still a pretty good existence to play matches like that.

“I don’t sit back and cry in my Cheerios.”

Yours is a classic Andy too, shows his sense of humor

August 5th, 2009 at 2:37 pm

Wow, Mardy in big trouble against Petschner…his injury caught up with him again?
Juan Carlos creamed Robredo and The Croatian Windmill won his 2nd round match too….
Hewitt-Sela about to start and WHY OH WHY can’t I see a ball hit on the courts arghhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

August 5th, 2009 at 5:42 pm

Veno: Mardy seems to be still bothered by that injury. Seems as though the ‘windmill’ and the ‘mosquito’ will be in the QFs.

“WHY OH WHY can’t I see a ball hit on the courts arghhhhhhhhhhhhhhh”

Yeah, why, oh why. Well, misery likes company, and I’m miserable too! LOL

August 5th, 2009 at 5:59 pm

The Aericans are not doing so well up til now…Andy’s gonna have to fly the flag once again..

Seems like there already have been mucho class matches and we haven’t seen a shot played boohooooooo

August 5th, 2009 at 6:24 pm

Aericans? Is this the result of the last remnants of sangria leaving my blood stream?

August 5th, 2009 at 6:26 pm

Dunno about Andy flying the flag at this tourney, as he’s playing match deprived, while the others have been playing for 3 weeks. Therefore, it will probably be Querrey who’ll be flying the flag, and he’s got the poles to do it, 6’5″. LOL.

Yes, I think the Sangria is still in your blood stream. Remember it takes 21 days to break a habit.

August 5th, 2009 at 6:31 pm

Meanwhile, Andreev is obliterating Odesnik. OUCH!

August 5th, 2009 at 6:32 pm

Odesnik faring better in the second though….4-3 and Sela is turning the tables on gritty Lleyton

August 5th, 2009 at 6:52 pm

break break break at Gonzo-Falla

August 5th, 2009 at 6:56 pm

Falla, Odesnik and Sela have all turned their matches around in the second set.

August 5th, 2009 at 6:59 pm

Odesnik did it…1-1
Hewit got the better of Sela again and Gonzo didn’t let Falla get away with it…

c ya later Von, bed time for me…I’ll cheer for your man in my sleep ok?

August 5th, 2009 at 7:22 pm

Bon soir, Veno, sweet dreams of Andy Roddick winning tonight. LOL. manana, yes?

August 5th, 2009 at 7:25 pm

GOAT Girl

Your money, if you recall, was on my being worn down. Well, one can anticipate this….

I’m up against a team, now, and I don’t really want to get into that. It’s good cop/ bad cop, too, beyond my -ah- limited resources…(For instance, if bad cop says:”grendel rant” – meaningless; good cop says the same – we-ll, worried look, scratch scratch—).

Nevertheless, you’ve got to hand it to bad cop, ground well prepared. Essential prerequisite: go in and hit hard. Aim to show that this is a loser, bitter and resentful. How can anyone take seriously the interminable outpourings of such a freak? Good cop, meanwhile, gently wipes the floor with poor grendel, holding his nose with faint disdain. Bad cop murmurs appreciatively….This is some double act!

Did you catch Von’s wolf/sheep post? It’s a familiar routine. What’s so wonderful about it is the impenetrable complacency. No flicker of doubt casts its shadow on our doughty warrior. Meanwhile, the good cop business has its positive side, since I think he will have a restraining influence on Von. Flattery is the key here. Too late for her earlier victims, though, people who suffered real pain and who didn’t have the luxury of solid citizen support….

GOAT Girl, collect your winnings. I’m done…..

August 6th, 2009 at 1:59 am

I feel like I am eavesdropping on somebody’s soliloquy.

August 6th, 2009 at 7:56 am

Grendel,

Don’t think that your adversary (I guess mine too) had any victims who suffered pain. I don’t think any of her ramblings against those who do not agree with her felt any worse after reading her posts. I for one can only feel concern about her mental health. I am glad her recent postings have been more on the pleasant side which makes me think she has started to find some inner peace. We should be happy for her.

August 6th, 2009 at 8:03 am

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/06082009/58/safina-qualifies-wta-championships.html

Safina is the first on the WTA tour to qualify for the championships.

August 6th, 2009 at 11:18 am

grendel,

Your 1:59am destroyed my brand new copy of “Modern history of Tibet” — I spilt coffee all over it. LOL.

I though they shut down Old Vick’s theater in London, didn’t they?

Old Vick’s = Tennis-X with Sean Randall

August 6th, 2009 at 11:34 am

Tibet – I can’t read about it any longer, it’s heartache pure and undiluted. I’m not keen on religious leaders generally. The Dalai Lama is an exception, goodness and humour shine from him. That’s why the Chinese can’t forgive him; this one individual is an amazingly potent force. I hate the way our governments try to hide him behind the back door when he visits. Trade is everything. Next time you buy a tee shirt for a dollar, remember it’s likely to be the product of slave labour in China. Oh, and to justify this post, I’m sure I’ve seen a picture of the Dalai Lama playing tennis.

August 6th, 2009 at 11:53 am

Will Donald Young’s mom ever step down and allow him to have a good coach.

http://links.mkt1003.com/ctt?kn=13&m=33808628&r=MjcyMTAxMjM1NgS2&b=0&j=NTUxNTI0MDUS1&mt=1&rt=0

August 6th, 2009 at 12:46 pm

Grendel: Was the Dalai Lama representing Tibet or China at said match?

August 6th, 2009 at 12:48 pm

Well, the Dalai Lama will have had that goofy smile on his face, as if tennis is definitely terrific fun, but he can’t quite seem to get hold of the general principles. On those grounds, he’d probably opt to play for China, so that at least Tibet could win something.

August 6th, 2009 at 1:53 pm

After years of fooling around almost everywhere, I was not expecting any real surprises before I made the trip to Tibet in late June. Well, I was shocked by what ever little I saw and was told. So I figure I need some self-education, thus the book. Real mystry. Real puzzle.

I thought Dalai Lama was a name. But it’s a title. Paris granted the Fourteenth Dailai Lama a citizenship in June, I heard.

He should be a good tennis player. All Dailai Lama’s are the best of the best.

August 7th, 2009 at 12:34 am

Von – here’s Jon Wertheim’s take on Donald Young’s parents still coaching him:

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/jon_wertheim/07/28/mail.bag/index.html?eref=fannation

August 7th, 2009 at 1:06 am

tenisbebe: Thanks for posting the article on Donald Young. I try to follow Young’s career, and am very disappointed about his stagnation, which I feel is due to his parents suffocation. Wertheim seems to think so as well. Donald has a lot of talent, plus he’s a natural lefty = a winning combination. So why is he not winning, I’d like to know. Also, why isn’t he playing in the NA tourneys and other events is mind-boggling to me, and such a shame really.

August 7th, 2009 at 12:58 pm