Federer’s Hardcourt Woes Continue, Chokes 5-1 Lead to Tsonga

Too soon to talk about the US Open now.

August 14th, 2009 at 5:53 pm

Too bad, since I really wanted to see him play Murray… Credit to Tsonga, though, who, once he levelled the score in that 3rd set, clearly had the momentum and played almost carefree tennis – just as any champion would do in such critical stage of the match. Tough to say how much that hand injury limited his play, but fact is, he won. And he won deservedly.

Let’s just hope JWT can keep up this level of play for tomorrow & the rest of the USO series, since when he’s on, he’s a joy to watch, no doubt about that! As for Fed, well, it really takes something “special” (and then some) to lose a 5-1 lead in the 3rd set (frankly, aside from that Rome 2006 final, I can’t recall another match where he’s blown such advantage in the deciding set), but it’s not the end of the world for him… He’s not gonna lose his No. 1 ranking at least till the USO (and, if he doesn’t screw it up here, it may stay like that also after the USO and presumably till the season is over), but I guess we’re going to see more losses like the one he suffered today…

August 14th, 2009 at 6:00 pm

Fed lost on purpose. Just wants to pace himself. Didn’t want to play Murray too soon. Is easing himself back into competitive tennis. All part of the plan. You don’t think after winning 15 GS, the guy really choked do you?

August 14th, 2009 at 6:08 pm

Now Sean. You cannot write such things as a “Federer Collapse”. And you cannot write words to describe Federer such as “choke”. After all, as many of us are so often reminded on this board : Federer is the Greatest Of All Time. And the Greatest Of All Time might lose now and again (but never through any fault of his own), but Greatest Of All Time doesn’t “choke” or “collapse”. Even if he leads by 5-1 and need just 4 more measly points to put a match away and still manages to lose. I’m sure you wrote this before the Greatest Of All Time gave out the Official GOAT Talking Points on this matter. But I’m not at all sure the Official GOAT Talking Points will include words like “collapse” or “choke”. You need to be brought in line with the much more reliable GOAT Talking Points – they are The Truth and not your own inferior eyes. What you saw was an irrelevant illusion. To print such words as “collapse” and “choke” prior to receiving the GOAT Talking Points is sheer insubordination. The GOAT Gestapo will be paying you a visit soon, no doubt. Even if by some small miracle the Official GOAT Talking Points include such words as “collapse” and “choke” it would still be insubordinate; the GOAT himself doesn’t like to be preempted. You have been warned :)

August 14th, 2009 at 6:15 pm

It’s amazing how quickly people want to change the narrative. “Federer is done,” “Federer will dominate again,” “Oh, did we mention? Federer is done.” It’s one match. It was a bad loss, because he got really tight and should have won, but it happens. It doesn’t mean he’ll lose the U.S. Open. Nor would it have meant he would win it if he had come through today. He lost in the 2nd or 3rd round at Fed cup last year and went on to win the U.S. Open. He’ll get over it and we’ll see what happens.

August 14th, 2009 at 6:16 pm

What is the big deal? Did you not predict that Roger cannot win because of his status as the new father. Now it is ROger choked, he is done, he has not worked out his hard court chokes. ROger is Roger. He will find a way to figure things out and win again. Maybe he will not be as dominat as before, but he will still win many more matches. Has he not won 600 matches out of 800 matches he has played. He will surprise us all yet.

August 14th, 2009 at 6:32 pm

Pretty unbelievable. My two favorite players battling it out. Tsonga really showed he had the stuff.

August 14th, 2009 at 6:37 pm

well-i think we all need to calm down here- and sean randall! shame on you! as you know, i am a big fan of yours – but to dis the roge! No sean. No. We, as fedfans, have come through a lot with him over the last 12 months and have stood by him, had our doubts (just little ones, mind!), at times – but the boy done good! he done good! like dave says – give the guy a break! He can’t win everything, and he has to save some energy for the US (though am wondering whether he will pull from cinny? what do you think, sean and fedfans?) – you media types need to get a grip! Federer loses 1 match! (yes…that’s 1 match!) and you start to write him off again! Stop it! you do yourself no favours! especially as you all had egg on your face last year when he went on to win the USO-after the ‘worst’ year of his life! Look the guy reaches final FO, and wins TWO slams back to back this year, makes SF of rome, madrid, miami and goes out in a QF of a masters – big deal! Fed will reassess, reanalyse and refocus! He loves the game too much!

August 14th, 2009 at 6:48 pm

Choke or no choke, I put this loss on par with Fed’s loss in his first match in Cincy in 2006 to Murray. It was a surprise, considering how that in that year Roger didn’t lose a single hard court match, but Roger still went on to win the USO in routine fashion.

August 14th, 2009 at 6:59 pm

What about the low ball toss on serve in the third set? Back problems? I don’t think he got one first serve in after the 5 to 1 lead.

August 14th, 2009 at 6:59 pm

All jokes aside, how many of you guys think Djokovic will retire if the match starts going Roddicks way? :P

August 14th, 2009 at 7:02 pm

If this was a 3 out of 5 set match and Fed was down 2 sets to 1 after missing a forehand at 4-4 to have a chance to serve for the first set and losing a 5-1 lead in the 3rd, who would you pick to win and why?

August 14th, 2009 at 7:29 pm

One other thing, parenthood in my case has mellowed me out on any number of fronts. It is just harder to get upset about certain things in life that seem smaller than they used to in terms of importance. This could be good for Roger or bad for him. This will be a key question for the remainder of his career. If losing does not feel as bad, is Federer as willing to dig deep and win? Conversely, if losing does not feel as bad, can Federer bounce back more quickly? I think it will take a good 12 months or more to really know what trend he follows on that front.

August 14th, 2009 at 7:31 pm

Shame Federer is gone.

Especially after the position he was in.

Songa will be a great player.

Williams sisters also gone but Serean still number 2 — Is this right

August 14th, 2009 at 7:55 pm

HAHAHAHAHAHA

Fedtard chokes!!! boo hoooo, all those fedtard fans, go watch some golf instead, hahahahaha

August 14th, 2009 at 8:19 pm

Hallows Says:
“Fed lost on purpose. Just wants to pace himself. Didn’t want to play Murray too soon. Is easing himself back into competitive tennis. All part of the plan. You don’t think after winning 15 GS, the guy really choked do you?”

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A brilliant observation Hallows. What a genius Federer is to go ALL the way to a third set, escalate what is traditionally on the ATP Tour an insurmountable lead of two service breaks and be a mere 4 points from the Semis and then choose, at that moment, to pack it in out of fear of facing Murray. Yes. Playing it that way instead of saying “my mono is back”, or “my back is back” – and retire makes him look so much better. Or “my kids kept me up all night and I didn’t sleep so I have to quit – I just can’t go on for one more point ’cause I’m too pooped to pound forehands”. Much much better for Federer to give the appearance of a mental meltdown rather than make it seem he was getting outplayed from the start, or that he was sick or injured or exhausted and had to quit. What brilliance :)

August 14th, 2009 at 8:21 pm

WHAT? REALLY? I turned it off after 4-1 in third thinking that Tsonga had hurt his wrist and was just playing it out and might have retired during the match. wow. He looked like he wasn’t even running out points anymore.

Anyway- yes, one should not use this to predict how Federer would do during the U.S.Open. Las year he lost to Simon, Karlovic, Blake in the three tournaments he played before the U.S. open. But I would say anyone of the top six has a good chance at the trophy. I would still go with Federer as the favorite right now though.

August 14th, 2009 at 8:23 pm

topspin said:

“HAHAHAHAHAHA

Fedtard chokes!!! boo hoooo, all those fedtard fans, go watch some golf instead, hahahahaha”

You’re all class, topspin. That’s all I’m gonna say.

August 14th, 2009 at 8:35 pm

I know they are said partly in joke, but I would question the various remarks about the twins keeping Federer awake, and so on. I should be mighty surprised if he is sleeping anywhere near the kids. If he is, then it’s absurd. He’s a professional athlete, whose earning power (which will keep the whole family in enviable comfort)depends on going on court fresh and well rested. A broken night is almost worse than no sleep at all, and don’t forget, the little dears don’t necessarily want feeding at the same time, so the night could be REALLY broken!
Mirka strikes me as the sort who might take to domesticity and motherhood (as does Steffi Graff) but given the Federer family’s wealth, I wouldn’t be too startled to learn a nanny was tending the children at night.

August 14th, 2009 at 8:50 pm

Andy Roddick gets in another tiebreak, and wins 6-4, 7-6. Looking ahead is silly, I know, but how about the two Andys for the final?

August 14th, 2009 at 8:55 pm

Well a real let down to watch Fed give up win but hey he’s human not superman. The great thing abuot Fed is he gets over losses like this. Just liek he did at the 08 Wimbledon and the 09 AO. He’ll be back and to be honest this might be just what he needs to get some fire for the USO. Besides he’s still picking up points over last year so all is still good. It’s been a great ride to watch him dominate over the last few months and we all knew it would come to an end at some point. No sense in getting all worried about his game. He’ll make the necessary adjustments and be back stronger then ever. Looking forward to Cincy.

August 14th, 2009 at 8:56 pm

I’ll take Roddick over anyone except Federer (and perhaps Nadal, haven’t seen his play since injury) in a 5 setter right now. Absolutely amazing how much he has improved from last year (he’s been on tour awhile to- rare to see someone willing to tweak with their game after paying a certain way for so long.)

August 14th, 2009 at 9:02 pm

Ugh. no showing of Nadal v.s. Del Potro. shame.

August 14th, 2009 at 9:07 pm

Let’s not forget Rafa was up a double-break in miami before he CHOKED that one.

Happens to all players. Just not Roger’s day. It was not like Roger was up a double break against a sissy like ivanisevic who cant break serve ever. Tsonga is a great all-court player and he can demolish the best like he showed us in the AO semi-final where he kicked Rafa’s ass 1 2 and 3 or something terrible like that. Roger just lost 2 tie-breaks. He was the one who was thrashing Tsonga 6-1 and then 5-1. If nadal can recover from the brutal mauling he received in 2008, I am sure Roger will come all-right from this.

A double break is not the same as in the 90s, when tennis was more a rock-throwing contest where the returner had zero chance. Thank God for that. We dont want to see Ivo Karlovic as Roger’s main rival, do we?

August 14th, 2009 at 9:23 pm

Anyway, good to know that Fed-haters like Voicemale have not killed themselves after, what must be a depressing Roger Summer and waited for this moment like hyenas waiting patiently for the lion to finish its kill.

We must all realise that we need wild dogs to clean up the dead and decaying. I am sure Voicemale serves some such purpose, but I am not really sure what it is.

August 14th, 2009 at 9:31 pm

blah: You can watch Nadal’s match on live streaming. ATDHE.net

August 14th, 2009 at 9:35 pm

Long Live the King, is it necessary to include Nadal in this discussion? It was Federer who lost the game, not Nadal… I don’t know but I think your statement sounds like you’re somebody’s hater to me…

August 14th, 2009 at 9:39 pm

Scottish, you say it’s been fun watching Fed dominate but “we all knew it would come to an end”.
Well, you evidently didn’t, before this loss, when you wrote “he still has tons of gas left in the tank”.

August 14th, 2009 at 9:44 pm

Von- Thank you. I am watching right now.

Congrats on Roddick’s win. I know you don’t like “jinxing” but I think it’s very possible that he is the second best player in the world, especially in five setters.

August 14th, 2009 at 9:47 pm

Long Live the King Says:
Anyway, good to know that Fed-haters like Voicemale have not killed themselves after, what must be a depressing Roger Summer and waited for this moment like hyenas waiting patiently for the lion to finish its kill.

We must all realise that we need wild dogs to clean up the dead and decaying. I am sure Voicemale serves some such purpose, but I am not really sure what it is.

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Now all I did was warn Sean not to use words like “collpase” and “choke” with regard to Federer, the Greatest Of All Time; and ridiculed Hallows for being dumb enough to claim Federer, the Greatest Of All Time, tanked at 5-1 in the third because he was afraid of Murray. And here you are spewing bile at me, and I haven’t said anything about Federer, other than to keep noting new surname of the Greatest Of All Time.

Your infantile name-calling rant rant shows just how thinly skinned you Federer Worshippers are. Especially when your Idol loses. You worshippers have a problem with all this GOAT nonsense don’t you? See..once you proclaim Federer as the Greatest Of All Time and he gags like he did today it just emphasizes how ridiculous this GOAT stuff is to begin with; there’s nowhere to go for him but down. And today was definitely a huge fall – especially if you give the GOAT nonsense any credence (which all worshippers do). Federer as GOAT is a hard argument to sustain when you watch matches like today, dontcha think?

August 14th, 2009 at 9:49 pm

Murray vs. Tsonga and Roddick vs. Nadal/JMDP is good stuff. I am happy for Tsonga.

August 14th, 2009 at 9:50 pm

i like tsonga….haven’t seen the match yet but the score seems bizarre….tsonga must have really gone away badly to lose the 2nd set 6-1 and then almost be toasted in the third that badly.

well, fed wasn’t having much luck on the old hard courts earlier this year. he was lucky to have won against wawrinka yesterday. he didn’t seem as on and stan could have done him in had he kept his errors in check.

glad to see novak is turning into roddick’s regular bit##.

August 14th, 2009 at 9:51 pm

Told you guys that, he had pretty easy draws at Wimbleon or Roland Garros. He won these two slams for not having to play the top 4 players. Like Sean Randall once called Djokovic being the garbage man of the tournament. Look! What Federer did at these two Grand Slams. He is definitely a GOAT! (grin)

August 14th, 2009 at 9:56 pm

He is definitely going to have alot of troubles at the Grand Slams or maybe early exit. If he has to run into the young talented players. Well, I’ll say he would has no problem playing guys like Haas, Gonzalez, Soderling or Roddick. But he is going to a hell of a lifetime. If he has to deal with players, like Simon Gillies, Djokovic, Murray, Nadal or Tsonga. These guys donot fear to play anyone. I would leave Del Potro out. Because I would consider him as a hardcourt specialist. But he also troubled Federer at Roland Garros.

August 14th, 2009 at 10:14 pm

Rick you’re entitled to your opinion, as is everyone, but oh my, to me you really have no knowledge and understanding of tennis by reading your last 2 posts…

August 14th, 2009 at 10:26 pm

Congrats to Tsonga and both Andys!! Just found some wireless and checked the scores. Looks like Djoko’s woes continue… but not really because Roddick is hot and so I am sure he simply outplayed Djoko.

Anyhow, at this point it’s looking like it could be either JMDP or Rafa vs. Roddick in one semi.

In the other we can watch Tsonga’s power and Murray’s finesse! COOL!

Hope everyone is enjoying the matches.

August 14th, 2009 at 10:38 pm

Del Potro snatching another tie break. He has improved his serve and perhaps his movement too. He has hit some good lobs in this match as well.

Jane- I think Djokovic is still struggling- his serve is too inconsistent for a top player, but at least it looks like he’s having fun playing tennis. He doesn’t have as much pressure on him anymore though- maybe that’ll be good for him.

August 14th, 2009 at 10:43 pm

Rafa lost the 1st set. He plays pretty well and shows no sign of injury or anything. Instead, Del Potro is the one who looks tired and less focus. Having said that, I believe Del Potro will win the just match simply because he has the game to beat Nadal even when Nadal is at the top of his level. He’s like the new Berdych or Youzhny or Blake to Nadal. As Nadal fan, I hope that Del Potro will be placed at the other side of draw during USO.

August 14th, 2009 at 10:53 pm

glad to see novak is turning into roddick’s regular bit##.

Andrea,
You mean the way Roddick is Fed’s bit##? LOL

August 14th, 2009 at 11:02 pm

Maybe she meant the way Fed is Nadal’s bit##.

August 14th, 2009 at 11:06 pm

I always wanted to see Rafa vs. an in form Safin as the match up really is not good for Rafa, but his heart might overcome Safin’s sanity at times. JMDP does not move as well as Safin, but is brutally efficient and very sane when playing well. JMDP is also younger than Nadal. He is an obstacle.

August 14th, 2009 at 11:06 pm

Hallows Says:

“Fed lost on purpose. Just wants to pace himself. Didn’t want to play Murray too soon. Is easing himself back into competitive tennis. All part of the plan. You don’t think after winning 15 GS, the guy really choked do you?”

You know that this is illegal in sports right? To purposefully throw a match, even more so when you’re in a winning position. If the powers that be find out about this, he faces a fine and a suspension, as well his image will take a huge hit (see Davydenko).

I want to know how YOU knew about this. Inside information, or just apologetics?

I don’t know if choke is the right word to use, but this is disconcerting for the guy who just became GOAT.

August 14th, 2009 at 11:07 pm

JMDP is a tall guy with a great two handed backhand- the topspin won’t work on that wing. He still has a long backswing on his forehand but- it seems like he’s drifting back behind the baseline when a ball is hit on that wing to give himself time load up and blast the ball deep, and moving up and attacking when a ball is hit to his backhand. Along with an improved serve and movement and that natural reach, he is dangerous.

-And he just won. Del Potro-Roddick rematch, this is getting better and better going into the U.S. Open. The top two are no longer that far above the field.

August 14th, 2009 at 11:12 pm

Good win for Tsonga.

Good loss for Fed.

Roddick better pace himself for Flushing Meadow. Good win, still.

Djok will regroup.

August 14th, 2009 at 11:13 pm

Rafa just got smashed. Del Po in my opinion may have just put himself on the favorites sheet instead of darkhorses.

August 14th, 2009 at 11:13 pm

What was the final score? I had to make a bottle and missed the close.

August 14th, 2009 at 11:15 pm

Just realized I picked Murray/Djok or Murray/JMDP for final.

Go Murray/JMDP!

August 14th, 2009 at 11:16 pm

Dan- 7-6, 6-1.

August 14th, 2009 at 11:16 pm

Congrats to Murray and all his fans for his new position in world tennis rank.

August 14th, 2009 at 11:18 pm

Fatherhood is cutting in on my tennis blogging and I only have 1 daughter … Imagine what twins would do to a person

7-6, 6-1 is impressive. I am sure Rafa is just trying to peak at the right time, but still JMDP is a bad match up on most surfaces for Rafa. Will Murray move to #2? Rafa is hurt by this loss in terms of chasing #1 for the season.

August 14th, 2009 at 11:21 pm

Maybe she meant the way Fed is Nadal’s bit##.
——————————
No blah, she meant how Roddick is Fed’s Bit## like 20-2. LOL Nadal has a long way to go to get to 20.

August 14th, 2009 at 11:22 pm

Ezorra: not yet.. Murray has to win tomorrow to be number 2.

August 14th, 2009 at 11:33 pm

Blah, make that 21-2. Roddick is in Fed’s quarter for Cincy.

August 14th, 2009 at 11:38 pm

Awesome stuff by JMDP. Loved it. Redeemed an otherwise lousy day with Fed’s loss. Going to be a tough match tomorrow for all these guys. Murray should take Tsonga but then again so should Fed have taken him. Toss up with AR and JMDP. Gotta say JMDP looked great out there. Would love to see JMDP beat on Murray in the final.

August 14th, 2009 at 11:41 pm

I would like to see Tsonga and JMDP for the final.

August 14th, 2009 at 11:48 pm

I loved the way Fed came to the net at the end. He gave Tsonga a big smile and was smiling when he shook the umps hand. Such a class act. The interview was really great too. He can handle this loss no problem. He’s had a lot worse.

Tsonga was funny coming to the net. He was almost sheepish and didn’t want to look up at Roger. I like him. I hope he takes down Murray tomorrow.

August 14th, 2009 at 11:54 pm

I’d like to see an era for a few years where 6 guys can realistically win slams and another 6 guys are dark horses and with surfaces that grouping shifts a bit so you have a solid set of contenders.

August 15th, 2009 at 12:02 am

Ezorra said: “Long Live the King, is it necessary to include Nadal in this discussion?”

Of course not, but he’s run out of options on how to make an excuse for today’s Fed’s loss…

August 15th, 2009 at 12:24 am

Dan Martin Says:

7-6, 6-1 is impressive. I am sure Rafa is just trying to peak at the right time, but still JMDP is a bad match up on most surfaces for Rafa. Will Murray move to #2? Rafa is hurt by this loss in terms of chasing #1 for the season.

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Nadal will definitely fall to #3. Too many points to defend and nowhere near ready to do it. Probably won’t seriously contend until The Australian Open next year. He’s gonna take a lot of beatings between now and then. What’s really strange is that he & Djokovic are supposed being launching a maiden Doubles Partnership in Cincinnati next week. And they don’t even like each other all that much.

As for JMDP – great match he played. Especially the drop volley at 5-all in the tiebreak. Stunning stuff. His issue will also be injuries. The big tall guys like him (6’5″-plus) don’t have especially long careers at the top – unless you were like Becker at 6’4 doing Serve Volley all the time. The back court grinding will take a huge toll on JMDP, age 20 now, within the next few years. With a center of gravity that high, the hips, knees and ankles will suffer more than they’d already would even if he were optimally tall at 6’0-6’1″. Like Tsonga (also real tall), his flashes of brilliance will be undercut by lengthy time on the Injury List.

August 15th, 2009 at 12:27 am

Couldn’t see Fed’s match end, and I am glad for that!!

All the possible scenarios for the final are great, but I prefer a Murray x DelPo, specially after DelPo finally got a win against Murray on clay.
But either way, DelPo and Roddick better don´t go too far on Cincy otherwise they can jeopardize US open. Most of all Roddick who isn’t 21 anymore like 2003, when he won back to back Canada, Cincy and US Open.

August 15th, 2009 at 12:45 am

Congrats to JMDP – great win for him. I don’t think many of us are *that* surprised that Rafa lost, at least I am not. He’s been injured for a while and this is his first match back. Plus, JMPD is an improver.

I wish I could see the rematch between him and Roddick.

blah – I agree about Djoko’s serve. I’ve been saying for a while that his serve is a problem. When it’s firing, his game can really click, but when it’s not, he struggles. But maybe he’ll come back around and be a contender. I wouldn’t be surprised if he drops in rankings again before that happens based on how well both Roddick and JMDP are playing.

Colin – a Murray vs. Roddick final would be terrific. Somewhat of a rematch of their Wimbledon encounter but on hardcourts.

I like Tsonga and JMDP too, though, so may the best man win.

August 15th, 2009 at 12:48 am

Sorry that should obviously be this is Rafa;s first “tournament” (not match) back, in the above post.

I tend to agree with Voicemale1. I had thought maybe Rafa would come back refreshed and maybe even have a chance at winning the USO this year, but now that I’ve seen him play here, I have stronger doubts that he’ll do much the remainder of this year, and will need a longer period to fully heal and compete at his best.

August 15th, 2009 at 12:52 am

…this loss we raise serious questions about his ability to win the US Open.

*YAWN* *YAWN* *YAWN*

Give me a break. This is like tabloid / sensationalism horseshit used to increase comments. I guess it worked… sort of. Just kind of baseless and wrong (taking cues from the Peter Bodo school of “journalism”) to say that one loss in his last 23 matches is some indication of his ability to win or lose the US Open.

You’re so X-tremely stupid sometimes.

Next.

August 15th, 2009 at 2:25 am

Give Fed a break! I’m sure that there are personal factors that contribute to his seeming inconsistencies. Let’s remember he now is an instant family man, having twins. This is very challenging on himself and his girlfriend’s especially because of this being their first attempt at having a family. The older he gets, it seems life outside of tennis has its increasing demands! That should be OK (at least I think). People need to give this champ a break! Let him enjoy his life and develop in other areas, if he so chooses. If he loses a match, so what! Even if he lost the rest of this season, so what! Who’s going to beat his record for the most wins anytime soon? He’s got a lot of great game left in him! And he will continue to win anyway. And best of all, he’s a class act. He gives a great deal of respect to his opponents. To some degree, I think we all respect him. Some of us just don’t want to admit it. I’ve never seen a more humble champion. Perhaps this is why he wins so much. He takes very little for granted. He’s the great ambassador for the sport.
Fed, all the best to you for the new and big changes in your life. I hope you find greater purpose and fulfillment off of the court.
I also like Tsonga. If he maintains his increasing development, he will too be a force to be reckoned with. I think of him as the ‘Muhammed Ali’ of tennis (he resembles him somewhat).
In the meantime Go Fed Go!

August 15th, 2009 at 3:09 am

Wow my two favourite players but…of course I want Andy M to win. Am I on my own here in thinking Andy is actually playing more aggressively?

August 15th, 2009 at 4:00 am

PS von: all the very best to your Andy tomorrow, may he get his revenge whop JMDP’s you-know-what!

August 15th, 2009 at 4:01 am

I doubt that top professionals are mainly concerned with petty things like revenge – it’s just additional motivation. Nonetheless, I imagine Murray would like to beat the man who knocked him out of last year’s Australian Open in the first round.
To do this, he’ll need to be at his best, which he wasn’t against Davydenko. Andy is pretty good at raising his game when the situation demands it, so I hope he can do so today. It would be nice to see him get the No 2 spot, but even nicer if he won this tournament. No doubt he’d say the same.

August 15th, 2009 at 4:06 am

He sold the game, as many games before.. many time happened this kind of games.. is he playing a tennis or for the bookies.. how he isn’t a shame.. there is no sport anymore, it’s all setup, football, tennis, everything.. and he sayd at the wibmledone tournament he is afraid when read about setup games in tennis, was he meant if someone other made a setup and not him..?

August 15th, 2009 at 6:00 am

Federer didn’t tank on purpose. However, I don’t think he invested himself heavily in this match.

Come on guys, have you already forgotten that, last year, he lost to Simon and Karlovic ? Have you forgotten his seemingly inexplicable loss to Djokovic in Rome, after being up a break in the third set ? Have you forgotten his defeat at Montreal in 2007 against Djokovic, after being 40-0 in the first set ?

It’s simple as that : Federer isn’t at 100% in those tournaments. He may be at 90%, or 80%. He will take the wins if he can, but won’t dig deep. He wants to peak for the USO. On the other hand you have Del Potro and Roddick who have already played a full tournament and are in the semis. Who will be better prepared for a long, exhausting 5-set match at the USO ? The answer is obvious.

August 15th, 2009 at 6:03 am

Von,

You were right about when you warned me about what happens when someone writes something unpleasant about Federer. All the Fed-lovers and Fed haters come out and start bashing each other. Makes for interesting reading, though.

August 15th, 2009 at 8:07 am

Vincent I agree that Fed paces himself going into the Slams and a look at this years Clay season could prove that. However I don’t think there was anything other than a mental lapse on his part for the loss. He wanted to win this tournament and after seeing all 3 rounds he definitely was giving it a go. He simply fell today in a way we are not used to seeing. But that’s tennis and that’s life. He’ll get over it and be ready for Cincy and the USO.

August 15th, 2009 at 8:18 am

Del Potro is one player to watch out for in any tournament now. He is powerful and moves well for a tall guy. He is also mentally tough. The first time I thought of him as a true contender was in his interview after his loss to Federer at the French Open semifinals. He was very disappointed in that loss. I could not remember his exact words but it was about being unhappy because he was not there not just to play well but to win. I saw a winner’s fire in him. The kind of player that is not contented with playing well but is there for the win. Federer has it. So does Nadal, Roddick and Murray. Djoko had it before but it seems to be waning. Verdasco and many other players do not have that. If you saw Verdasco after he lost to Roddick recently, he was all smiles while shaking hands at the net, seemingly proud of how he played and not bitter about the loss.

August 15th, 2009 at 8:32 am

I think it is proposterous to think that any player tries to lose on purpose (except maybe in a round robin event in order to manipulate who they could play in the finals). Or if there is betting money involved but I doubt if any of the top guys would do it. They have so much money already to take that risk.

August 15th, 2009 at 8:37 am

Vincent said: „It’s simple as that : Federer isn’t at 100% in those tournaments. He may be at 90%, or 80%. He will take the wins if he can, but won’t dig deep.“

Translation: Every single win over Fed outside of slams can’t be considered a win, because he’s never at 100 % in these tournaments. He certainly wasn’t even in those 15 MS events which he won in the past… LOL and LOL!

August 15th, 2009 at 8:51 am

Dan Martin Says:
I’d like to see an era for a few years where 6 guys can realistically win slams and another 6 guys are dark horses and with surfaces that grouping shifts a bit so you have a solid set of contenders.

Wouldn’t that be great? With so many young players in the top 15-16 we’ve got all the makings. Just wish the grass season could be a bit longer for the sake of balance – but that’s probably my Brit background showing. I’m pulling for an Andy x 2 final and cheering for Andy M. on this one. Nice to see a talented tennis brat put in the hard work and mature quickly into a courteous player with a killer game on his best days. But also great to see Andy R with real depth and versatility on the court now. It’s all good!

August 15th, 2009 at 8:54 am

Marcus says “The first time I thought of him as a true contender was in his interview after his loss to Federer at the French Open semifinals. He was very disappointed in that loss.”

Interesting point about JMDP – I thought almost the same thing when he lost to Murray at the USO last summer after having won 4 events. He actually broke down in tears in his presser after losing that match, and I couldn’t help thinking then that a guy who hates to lose that much will be a force to be reckoned with in any match going forward. He is very determined.

Still, so is Andy R, who is playing some of his best tennis ever, so their match should be a good one.

Colin raised an interesting factor in the Tsonga vs Murray semi – have these 2 played since that AO first round encounter last year?

August 15th, 2009 at 10:42 am

Voicemale – great points. I liked reading your take.

Trilby – one of my favorite eras in tennis was the early 90’s. Lendl was still tough, Becker and Edberg were mid 20’s. Agassi had been relevant since 88 and Chang since 89. Courier was on his way up. Of course you had sweet Pete. Stich and Goran too. Bruguera beat Edberg at the 91 FO first round as well. Connors and McEnroe made slam semis in 91 and 92 respectively. It was fun to have so many different players who could potentially come through a draw.

August 15th, 2009 at 10:50 am

I don’t see any one of these new players siezing the crown … all I see is Federer losing his focus (and not playing his best) and Nadal losing his mobility (and not being able to play his best). Federer lost … Tsonga didn’t win … Del Potro has potential … but the match had more the appearance of Nadal losing than Del Potro winning…. and why can’t Del Potro hit with more power for such a big guy? Roddicks maximized his potential … but still lacks the ability to play with a power hitter… and I’m not convinced Murray beats a consistent player that does not fall for his “rope the dope” style. Overall I give Murray the edge of the up-and-comers because he has demonstrated the ability (at times) to hit with some power. Djokovic just doesn’t seem to have it upstairs.
I guess it is tough to replace a Federer or Nadal,… players with both power and consistency and a winning belief. But I for one don’t want to see a turnstile of winners for the next 3 years.

August 15th, 2009 at 10:53 am

I feel like this Rogers Cup series is more like a testing ground for the top contenders for the coming US Open. They all would want to win, of course, but I think what counts more for them is to see where they are compared to the others. Nadal to see if his knees will hold up and carry him through 2 weeks on the hard court, Murray to assess it he could put doubts on all his opponents minds, Roddick to test how the improvements in his game stand up with the others and del Potro to have a better feel if he really belongs. Federer, I am not sure what else he wants, maybe to see if he is still hungry? Djokovic, looks burned out to me. The commentators last night quoted Novak saying that he was born at the wrong time. That sounds like he is giving up.

August 15th, 2009 at 10:59 am

Marcus said ” Novak saying that he was born at the wrong time. That sounds like he is giving up.”

This does sound defeatist. He has to deal with the hand he’s been dealt. If he can’t, then he will continue to fall. He didn’t lose badly to Roddick, who is playing fantastic tennis, this being his best year results-wise since he won the USO; thus, there is no shame in losing to him!

Djoko should regroup and keep trying to improve. If he can find the key to serving more consistently not to mention the desire to win, there is no reason he can’t remain near the top.

August 15th, 2009 at 11:14 am

Commentators have said Roddick was born at the wrong time too. I don’t think djokovic is giving up. He needs advice of Todd Martin, to play some doubles and regroup. All three Nadal, Fed and Djokovic had one month off, whereas Delpotro and Roddick have been playing tournaments.

Andy Roddick’s Tragic Birthdate
http://www.yoursportsnightcap.com/?p=489

August 15th, 2009 at 11:21 am

Marcus Says:

“Djokovic, looks burned out to me. The commentators last night quoted Novak saying that he was born at the wrong time. That sounds like he is giving up.”

– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

Neither Djokovic nor Nadal has been the same since that brutal Semi Final they played in Madrid. Not just physically, but mentally it had to have been one of those matches that taxes you to the limit. Up until that match they’d both been playing Lights Out Tennis through the whole clay season, and the nature of that Semi looks to have emptied their tanks, especially for Djokovic because he didn’t win it despite the massive energy he put in to it. Nadal taking the 3 months off was a smart thing not only to heal physically but to recharge his mental storehouse. Something like that might be the right RX for Djokovic.

August 15th, 2009 at 11:35 am

Djokovic was the one who said he was born at the wrong time. The commentators were simply quoting him. That was what they were talking about during the Djokovic-Roddick match. Roddick never said he was born at the wrong time, only the commentators say that. Roddick is often self-deprecating in his interviews but he never indulges in self-pity.

That article from the website sent by vared was unfair to even insinuate that Roddick is a “tragic figure”. He has achieved a lot, he knows his place, and he does not live on what others project him to be. What is tragic is if somebody is given the potential but does not do anything about it. Roddick does the best he could in trying to reach his full potential. That is not, in any way, a “tragic figure”.

August 15th, 2009 at 11:47 am

Is it only me, or did any one else feel DelPotro won due to Nadal’s rust and his inability to find his spots on the court? There were tears in my eyes watching Nadal look so helpless, (no he’s not one of my faves and I’m speaking from an unbiased vantage point) one who’s such a warrior, struggle so hard to find some semblance of his previous form and normalcy on the court. How frustrating it must have been for him, being unable to hit his shots in the court and experiencing such a high degree of difficulty in getting up to the ball due to his lack of movement, or maybe being cautious about his knees, thereby allowing DelPotro to hit drop shots that made him look like an expert?

However, despite it all, Nadal played a very competitive first set (the courage of a champion), but it was obvious during the tie-break he began to tire and perspired profusely aside from his normal sweating. The profuse sweating is the sign of an individual suffering from fatigue and fear, and as a result DelPotro was able to pounce and win the tie-break. The second set was more or less a continuation of Nadal’s tiredness than DelPotro’s expertise and great tennis that was responsible for winning that set also.

I feel for Nadal, who’s probably asking himself a ton of questions and one of those questions could be: does he want to continue to play competitive tennis or retire from the arena. I hope he finds the answers to his questions, and dig deep within himself to do that which gives him the most joy and is self-fulfilling.

August 15th, 2009 at 11:48 am

I agree with Voicemale1 that “Something like that might be the right RX for Djokovic”, referring to “Nadal taking the 3 months off was a smart thing not only to heal physically but to recharge his mental storehouse”.

August 15th, 2009 at 11:50 am

Von, I would disagree with you that among the questions in Nadal’s mind could be whether he wants to continue to play competitive tennis or retire from the arena. Nadal is such a competitor and that would only be a consideration for him if he becomes permanently physically disabled to play at his usual level. Right now, it is too early to tell.

August 15th, 2009 at 11:54 am

3 mos for Nadal was obviously not enough … he should have come back when his knees were ready … his knees are obviously not ready … do you think they will improve heading into the US Open ? …

August 15th, 2009 at 11:55 am

Marcus, maybe Djokovic said he was born at the wrong time when he was asked a question about it? I don’t know. I think it’s hard to be a player in a Nadal/Federer dominant world.

I also heard the commentators say that Nadal and Djokovic Madrid match did them both in.

August 15th, 2009 at 11:55 am

Tennisfan Says:

“… and I’m not convinced Murray beats a consistent player that does not fall for his “rope the dope” style. Overall I give Murray the edge of the up-and-comers because he has demonstrated the ability (at times) to hit with some power.”

– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

This is an excellent point on Murray. “Rope-A-Dope” is an ideal way to describe his dissection of his opponents. But it’s also a strategy that works optimally when you only have to win two sets. Winning a third set is tougher, which is why his record at the Majors is less auspicious than others. The better players have the extra set to be less duped by his junk balling. He’s winless in Majors so far, and only has one Final appearance. He hasn’t been past the QF’s at either the French or the Australian, and his Semi Final at Wimbledon this year was his best showing there yet. When you contrast that to Djokovic (Major Winner, Major Finalist and Semis or better in all 4); Roddick (Major Winner and Major Finalist 4 other times); and Nadal (6 Majors in the bank, Finalist in two others) it’s clear that Murray owes his ranking to the Rope-A-Dope consistency at the Best of Three events.

August 15th, 2009 at 11:57 am

vared Says:

I also heard the commentators say that Nadal and Djokovic Madrid match did them both in.

Those commentators may well be right. That was such a grueling match. Nadal ruined his knees and Djokovic ruined his confidence.

August 15th, 2009 at 12:04 pm

Voicemale 1: “it’s clear that Murray owes his ranking to the Rope-A-Dope consistency at the Best of Three events”
___________________________________________

I tend to agree … I think Murray is going to have to learn to work more of a power game into his “junk ball” style to win a Major … he does appear however to have that shot … and so maybe his success will hinge on whether he can learn to how to make it more part of his overall game …

August 15th, 2009 at 12:05 pm

Tennisfan Says:
“3 mos for Nadal was obviously not enough … he should have come back when his knees were ready … his knees are obviously not ready … do you think they will improve heading into the US Open ? …”

– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

I don’t know that Nadal’s idea was to come back only when you’re ready to go guns-blazing. And you don’t get to the optimal level you have unless you play matches – otherwise none of the singles players would enter the Doubles Events at the Masters tournaments. They do that strictly to get match time in so their rhythm returns quicker. You can’t just practice your way to the top, especially in today’s game. You gotta have real matches.

It looks like he’s decided to play to keep at least some of the ranking points he earned last year, and simultaneously play his way back into his best. That will take several months to do since he basically sat on a couch for almost three months to rest his knees. And he’ll take a lot of losses until he gets back to his best tennis. In the interim, he can work on things he’ll need to improve, mostly the serve. It’s a good time to do it since he’s basically starting his year over at this point.

August 15th, 2009 at 12:11 pm

Marcus: I also heard the commentators talking with respect to Djokovic’s ‘defeatist’ attitude and remarks, which are their words. They also said, if anyone should have had that kind of mentality it should have been Roddick who’s suffered severely at Federer’s hands, and had it not been for Federer, Roddick’s resume would have many grand slams written all over it. To reiterate, those were the commentators words. I didn’t read the article Vared linked, but I’ve seen others where the writers of those articles speculate on Roddick’s birth coinciding with Federer’s stating Roddick was ‘born at the wrong time’.

Roddick had four goals in tennis, and he has achieved three. The only one that has eluded him is Wimbledon, which he nearly got this year. It’s one of the reasons I like the guy so much, because he’s not interested in being the greatest, he only wants to play and attain HIS set four (4) goals. As a result of his mind-set, he’s not placing undue pressure on his shoulders and can live joyfully in his achievements, and not having to break records. It’s probably hard for some to believe but there are many people who are just not into breaking records or having themselves proclaimed to be the ‘greatest’. Agassi was one of those individuals, and he’s the athlete Roddick admires most, not for his on-court performance, but what he’s done off the court for humanity.

Andy stated recently, he finds more joy and fulfillment from his charitable work than from tennis and tennis is not the end all of his life. to me that speaks volumes, however, he’s a competitor and when he’s on the court he gives 100 percent and then some.
______________
“Von,

You were right about when you warned me about what happens when someone writes something unpleasant about Federer. All the Fed-lovers and Fed haters come out and start bashing each other. Makes for interesting reading, though.”

With respect to the above dissension among the clan, if you notice I do not make any remarks whatsoever on Federer, because I’ve learnt after Wimby that it’s the only way to be peaceful and be happy when posting. It doesn’t mean I don’t have an opinion, which I always do, but for the sake of peace I’m taking that road, and that is my advice to you if you want to enjoy posting and have some laughs simultaneously. In sum it ain’t worth it, because I come here for laughs and don’t need to face a firing squad because of my opinions, and the threads on Federer are now hands-off for me. I suffer enough emotional turmoil when Roddick is playing and that’s enough punishment, don’t you think? Look at how many times I need Veno to hold my hands. LOL.

BTW, did your wife realize that it was the Pinot Noir that was causing to you to be slap happy? LOL and LOL again. I conjured up this picture of you sitting on your couch with a glass of wine in your hand, and the bottle next to you, giggling to your heart’s content with nary a care in the world. LOL. Now that’s my idea of happiness.

August 15th, 2009 at 12:16 pm

… anybody know anything about tendinitis on this site? … can Nadal actually continue to play events …particularly hardcourt events … and see his knees continue to improve? …
… I had frozen shoulder once and there was little you could do but let the joint heal … I tried to keep up my conditioning with cardio etc. … and it was easier to pick up the game again when my arm was ready …

August 15th, 2009 at 12:16 pm

Tennisfan:

Tendinitis is less of an injury than it is a condition. An inflammation of a stressed area due to exertion, according to Wikipedia. It’s treatment is basically – rest. There’s not much else you can do. Venus Williams was diagnosed with tendinitis in both wrists at one point and was off the tour for 6 months (three were for rest, the other three were due to the fact the end of the year was upon her, so there was no reason to go back ASAP).

So long as Nadal stops playing places he doesn’t need to play, like Rotterdam and at least one of the clay events, he should be able to get the rest between tournaments he needs to keep the inflammation at a minimum.

August 15th, 2009 at 12:28 pm

As regards tendinitis, unfortunately, it tends to recur due to repeated trauma to the site. Repetitive motions and pressure on the area like what happens when playing tennis can reaggravate it. The treatment is rest, physical therapy, splints, etc to immobilize the joint. Does not sound very good if you constantly run in the tennis court

August 15th, 2009 at 12:29 pm

Von: … give it a rest on the subtle Federer put downs … I give credit to Roddick for hanging in there and learning how to improve his game. He’s playing some of the best tennis he’s played in his career except for maybe the year he won a Major. He is guilty however of getting lazy for a few years in between … his game actually was in decline for several years … and maybe it took a kick in the a## (or in his ranking) to figure out that he would have to work very hard to get it back. I give credit to him for putting in the work. Having said that at his best he still is not a “great” player on any kind of historic measurement … he is just a very “good” player.
You also have a very US centric point of view … being a patriotic American (I would guess) … but some people have a more global view which allows them to appreciate players of most countries and backgrounds. Don’t get me wrong … your entitled to have your own point of view … but I think it is sometimes self limiting.

August 15th, 2009 at 12:30 pm

I would like to make a statement: Andy Roddick is the conscience of men’s tennis. He is the only one who calls a spade, “a spade.” He is fair and, unlike James Blake, doesnt use the podium to complain but to make recommendations that other players would make but dont have the stature to make.

(I love James Blake, but he doesnt have the stature and he consistently complains about conditions. Roddick accepts conditions and points out problems that affect all players, not just himself).

So there you go. Have at it.

August 15th, 2009 at 12:37 pm

I think Federer SHOULD be the conscience of men’s tennis, but he doesnt step up to the plate when it comes to calling a spade a spade. I’d cite Roddick’s pulling out of Dubai and his even more recent criticism of the US Open Series using different tennis balls at different tournaments (again, favoring sponsors over players). So when it comes to principled straight talk in tennis, it’s Andy Roddick. The guy doesnt delude himself or others and he speaks up. You got to hand it to him.

August 15th, 2009 at 12:40 pm

Voicemale1:

“And he’ll take a lot of losses until he gets back to his best tennis. In the interim, he can work on things he’ll need to improve, mostly the serve. It’s a good time to do it since he’s basically starting his year over at this point.”
____________
I liken Nadal to a stroke victim, one who has to re-learn everything from probably scratch. He’s also going to have to learn how to move effectively without stressing his knees to much. He’ll be able to do it, because progress is cumulative but also one that needs a lot of patience, where we make two steps forward and some backwards. However, when he’s mastered all of his short-comings we’ll see a better and more rounded athlete competing in the future, and the sport of tennis will have benefited tremendously in the long run. It’s a long and arduous process, but I have faith that if anyone can do it, it’s Nadal.

I somewhat disagree that the Madrid match which was two months ago, could still be damaging to Djokovic mentally. He’s had close to six weeks off from the tour and was on a cruise in the Adriatic, which in itself is mentally healing. Additionally, now that Nadal is injured, their rivalry should be put to rest by Djokovic considering what we’ve seen thus far of Nadal’s performance. In Nadal’s present state, I’m sure Djokovic can beat him, so why would that Madrid loss still be haunting Djokovic? If Roddick could bounce back from such a recent, horrible loss to Federer at Wimby, then why can’t Djokovic shed the trappings of his match v. Nadal at Madrid? Is Djokovic that mentally soft?
_______________________
Marcus: Maybe you’re right about Nadal not questioning himself about being on the court, but the mind is very persuasive when we are down and can’t perform at our peak as we once did. Pain is also a deciding factor as it can certainly wear down even the strongest of human beings. I hope that Nadal comes out of this situation stronger and remains competitive, and does what’s right for his health, and numero uno

August 15th, 2009 at 12:41 pm

Andrew Miller: “I think Federer SHOULD be the conscience of men’s tennis, but he doesnt step up to the plate when it comes to calling a spade a spade”
———————————————–
Well … part of that is personality. Roddick has always been a “wise-guy” … one of the things I like about him. But Federer has spoken up about a no. of things that he’s disagreed with like the hawk eye system … which at times can make some glaringly wrong calls. He felt that the umpire should have the final say … and the final authority … and I would tend to agree.
… but it has always been easier for a guy a little outside of the main stream to speak up about things …
… maybe Fed is a little too polite … it comes from being Swiss (I guess) …

August 15th, 2009 at 12:52 pm

tennisfan:

What federer put downs? Did I put down Federer? Please read more. You have this knack for only getting in mid-stream and don’t look at the whole picture. I’m not putting down anyone, I’m merely speaking the truth , as is evidenced by some of the posts right here on this thread. If at all, I’m the one who gets put down for anything I mention with respect to Federer, and it’s why I won’t comment on him,period. Just in case you didn’t notice, I was responding to Marcus. I’ve been called names I don’t care to mention by the many Fed fans here just for my opinions, so please don’t let’s go there.

“You also have a very US centric point of view … being a patriotic American (I would guess) … but some people have a more global view which allows them to appreciate players of most countries and backgrounds. Don’t get me wrong … your entitled to have your own point of view … but I think it is sometimes self limiting.”

Says who, you? I happen to state I support the Americans yes, and always will, because this is where I live, but I also like other players and root for them, e.g., Safin (an old fave) Juan Carlos Ferrero, Gasquet, Murray and several others. And, let’s not talk about self-limiting, you ONLY support Federer, so who’s more self-limiting than whom? You, yes?.

“I give credit to Roddick for hanging in there and learning how to improve his game. He’s playing some of the best tennis he’s played in his career except for maybe the year he won a Major.”

You give credit to Roddick? LOL. I read posts on other sites you know, and I can tell you that Roddick and Djokovic you ‘hate’ the most. I’ve seen it in black and white.

August 15th, 2009 at 12:53 pm

“Neither Djokovic nor Nadal has been the same since that brutal Semi Final they played in Madrid. Not just physically, but mentally it had to have been one of those matches that taxes you to the limit. Up until that match they’d both been playing Lights Out Tennis through the whole clay season, and the nature of that Semi looks to have emptied their tanks, especially for Djokovic because he didn’t win it despite the massive energy he put in to it. Nadal taking the 3 months off was a smart thing not only to heal physically but to recharge his mental storehouse. Something like that might be the right RX for Djokovic.”

Reading the above I can’t help but wondering…
To me it’s remarkable how many times a past, outstanding occasion is used as argument in present and future analysis of describing events using it to explain these, after all we have knowledge of the results at present, through means of backward-reasoning.
If using this reasoning Andy Roddick wouldn’t have been able to hit a decent ball at Legg Mason and Montreal considering his gutwrenching loss at Wimby? Does this mean that Roddick is mentally and physically stronger than both because he obviously hasn’t had any lingering problems from that 4 hr and 17 minute battle at SW19?
I saw both matches in their entirety and brutal as they both were, I dare not go as far as to say Rafa and Novak “destroyed” eachother in that match…It was a semi-final of a Masters Series, not a final of a Grand Slam…Furthermore, 4 hours and 3 minutes is the longest 3-set match ever and no doubt it was physically and mentally an amazing effort by both, if it were any 2 other players playing the exact same match it would have probably lasted 3 hours and a quarter because both are very slow and I would be interested in how much “effective time” they were playing tennis.
It could be that the Madrid match has had a lingering physical and or mental effect on them both, I’m just not as sure as how heavy to weight it in the myriad of varables contributing to both their respective physical and mental states….

August 15th, 2009 at 12:58 pm

Veno: @ 12:58 pm, look at my post @ 12:41 pm. Are you reading my mind, hon? This is scary! I think we agree on a lot, and have many mutual likes and dislikes, but syncing my thoughts is another story and one which I need to be more careful with in the future. LOL.

August 15th, 2009 at 1:01 pm

federer is criticized if he wins matches because then its because he didn’t have 2play the likes of nadal, djokovic or murray. but remember they lost to other players which is not his fault. then hes criticized if he loses matches to lesser ranked players. its a no win situation 4 federer. the media builds him up when he wins and tears him right down when he loses. in my opinion, federer seems 2 get criticized more & thats because the media puts spin on him being the goat. i am a devout fan of rogers & don’t consider him the goat and thats because i don’t consider any player the goat. he is one of many players who excels in this sport. hes human. anyone who puts anyone on a pedestal becomes delusional w/the idea that that person is not human. nadal & djokovic were also knocked out yet i don’t here anyone saying that they are washed up. men’s tennis is a tough field w/so many good players. anyone in the top 50 is going to have a decent game. as for uso, federer may be going in, on paper, as fvt, but, and as i said, i am a devout federer fan, he is one of many. i certainly dont exclude nadal, djokovic, roddick, murray, del potro, tsonga to win uso. its anybodys tournament, i’m just hoping federer is the last man standing.

August 15th, 2009 at 1:07 pm

Von:

I think you’re being prematurely pessimistic about Rafa’s state. I saw the whole match(I know, against better judgement) and from what I saw he wasn’t in bad shape at all. He moves well and he hit the spots he wanted on both wings deep into the second set(although obviously a lot more frequent in the first set) He’ll be fine soon and to me he didn’t look too rusty at all. Just needs some matches and some more training to polish his game. Also, have to give JMDP soem credit….He looked tentative the first set(I suspect from a mental block he had to overcome because it was Rafa at the other side of the net) at 5-2 down in the tiebreak he finally lifted the monkey off his back and started to play his game. He started using his strengths, especially his power, and took over the match. He notched up a gear and that proved too much for Rafa. Liked Rafa’s warrior attitude and he’ll be stronger at Cincy…as will Fed….I worry not. I do worry a little for Novak. Although Andy was impressive(yeah Andy OH VEY) it seems like Novak just doesn’t have the belief when things get tight in a match. Seems to me he starts “thinking” too much and to me he’s an intuitive player, at his best when flowing and when his head is clear…
I still go with Andy M to win Montreal but I’m rooting for Jo-Willy to beat him and that Andy R. will win against him in the final. My goodness, Andy deserves a big title!!!
And von, always a pleasure to have my hands squeezed by you when A-Rod is playing

August 15th, 2009 at 1:09 pm

Lol, I hadn’t read your 12:41 post because I was writing(and cooking dinner at the same time lol) my reaction to what I read earlier in this thread…

It’s funny that at the time you wrote that our minds are in synch many times, I write an aanomalic view to your considering Rafa’s state…This is getting freaky!!!

August 15th, 2009 at 1:12 pm

Von: I didn’t expect you to take my comments about US centric being self limiting lightly … I congratulate you on having other “faves” … unfortunately Tennisfan may not be the best moniker given that there are others that post as “Tennis fan” and “tennisfan” however I assure you that I do not ‘hate’ any player the most.

Yes, we probably all have our most favourites .. mine is Federer, but that is just because his game is so complete and beautiful to watch. I enjoy watching many different players, but I tend to favour those that are capable of a more traditional overall game. I like serve and volley … over hit the ball from the baseline … any day of the week. I actually have always kind of liked Roddick … partly cause he is such a “wise-guy”… but I admit that Djokovic isn’t a fave … I think its partly because of his “vehement family”. I wish his brother would get on with his own life and finish his schooling instead of touring the world with the clan. I actually think Djokovic might do better if left on his own for awhile. I didn’t see the family in Montreal .. so maybe the process has started.
Von, … and you and I both know there is nothing that is black and white …

August 15th, 2009 at 1:14 pm

Tennisfan:

My sincerest apologies for labeling you incorrectly, due to your nick, however, you’ve posted here umpteen times before, and I think I know your views on certain players by now.

BTW, you’re right I don’t take kindly to being called ‘self-limiting’. If anything, I’m a far cry from being self-limiting and one who believes in embracing autonomy to its fullest. Tennis is just one of the sports I follow, but the only one on which I blog. I wish there were other sports where blogging is as rampant as tennis. And, for the record, I’m not a Djokovic fan, but only mentioned him because of what I’ve read. And no, I don’t think of anything as black and white — I like to see variations of colours in between, and I hope you do too.

Have a nice day and thanks for the discussion!

August 15th, 2009 at 1:27 pm

Veno: All points taken with respect to Nadal, but only time will tell, and I’ll defer to you take on the match last night.

“And von, always a pleasure to have my hands squeezed by you when A-Rod is playing.”

I’ll need to borrow them tonight again, that is if you’ll be around instead of doing the shake-a-roney. Oh what a night on a Saturday night. I was young once upon a time you know, and now I’m just maman. LOL.

August 15th, 2009 at 1:32 pm

I will be right at home this Saturday night :)
Actually I am not that young anymore, so there are not much Saturday nights I go out maman hahaha
I’ve had my day in the clubs and bars….I’m content watching a movie and plant my petootie behind my comp screen to see some good tennis!!!!

Go Andy…………….R!!!!!!!!!!!

August 15th, 2009 at 1:46 pm

And tennis fans all over….whoever your fave is…

Know this…After Fed and Rafa have gone and the young guns have taken over….Tennis is going to be dominated by 6’5″ power giants…
We will unlikely see the genius that is Fed and the warrior that is Rafa in the coming age…Especially not at the same time so let’s rejoice the men’s game is so competitive(mostly because of them both) and varied with top thletes and great matches…Times are good!!!

August 15th, 2009 at 1:49 pm

Regarding that phrase ‘rope-a-dope’, it was coined by Ali, wasn’t it? Well it was good enough to win him a world title!
There seems to be a tendency to talk as if Murray never plays an attacking shot. Yet his on-the-run cross courters, from both wings, are some of the most spectacular shots you could wish for.

August 15th, 2009 at 1:53 pm

Don’t think Federer cares about winning these tune up events any more. Don’t read too much into them.

Losing early last summer before the US open didn’t stop Federer from winning it.

Looking shitty during the early part of the the year didn’t stop him from winning two grand slams in a row. Best of 5 matches are a different animal imo.

The real worries should be with players like Nadal and Djokovic. They look vulnerable for different reasons.

The best 4 hard court players now are Federer, Roddick, Murray, and Del Potro.

I’m not fooled by Federer’s apparent collapses in these warm up events. His mind did not look focused. He was distracted and clearly was not in it to win it.

The prospect of playing Murray in the semis may have had something to do with it. May be wanting to save his best for the U.S. Open. Let Roddick or Murray win this event. Big deal. Federer’s got his eye on the bigger prize. Federer is smart as a Fox.

When he raises the U.S open trophy for the 6th straight year, he will have the last laugh and the best one.

August 15th, 2009 at 1:53 pm

roger tanked the match cause he didn’t want to face murray. no way does roger lose a 5-1 lead, unless it is to nadal.

August 15th, 2009 at 2:00 pm

Tennisfan: You are right. I agree with you a hundred percent about Federer – he has spoken up about Hawkeye. You’re probably right about why he doesnt speak more about other issues, and that Roddick is not out of place saying what he says because it can be expected from him, based on what he says before.

I think it was pretty classy of Federer not to tell the public that Mirka was having twins.

August 15th, 2009 at 2:02 pm

before it was the right time to say anything. And he won two slams when he had to.

The man cant do it all. But, at the same time he’s a little too polite when it comes to major issues. He’s been an icon in the sport – like Agassi, people will listen to Federer. He has a podium but doesnt use it.

August 15th, 2009 at 2:04 pm

[…] Recent News… Federer’s Hardcourt Woes Continue, Chokes 5-1 Lead to Tsonga […]

August 15th, 2009 at 2:10 pm

Veno: I know you like to read articles, so here’s a very interesting one on your fave:

http://www.tennistalk.com/en/news/20090814/Federer_admits_that_his_memory_is_nearing_bursting_point_with_tennis

http://www.tennistalk.com/en/match_report/Rogers_Cup/2009/Roger_Federer_-_Jo-Wilfried_Tsonga

August 15th, 2009 at 3:13 pm

Veno: Are you watching Murray’s match? Talk to me.

August 15th, 2009 at 3:38 pm

Hey Von, No I’m not watching Tsonga-Murray…See the new thread as to why…Have watched 2 games only….
And thanks for the articel links…the first 1 I haven’t read before…Will do now…

How are the nerves for tonight’s match holding up?

August 15th, 2009 at 4:04 pm

Lol, in the article it says:

“The Swiss, 28, has played more than 800 matches at the ATP level, winning nearly 600.” Now that’s bad journalism!!!

His tally is 659-156….

August 15th, 2009 at 4:07 pm

Veno: Yes, I saw your post on the other thread — be careful!

I wanted you to see that article because I think it has quite a few errors, but it was somewhat interesting.

My anxiety is under control but will be in full swing at 6:55 pm, will you be watching?

August 15th, 2009 at 4:12 pm

Agree with everything Cindy_Brady said. I am sure a lot of people will dissent but all those observations were based on facts and her personal opinions and reactions to them. It should not ruffle any feathers. The tennis-x community is starting to come alive again with the scent of the US Open in the air. Fun!

August 15th, 2009 at 4:22 pm

Yes, I will be watching Von…Whom else’s hands will you be squeezing tonight?

Von Says:

Veno: Yes, I saw your post on the other thread — be careful!

Thanks for the warning lol, I know what you mean there…however…it will be fine….

August 15th, 2009 at 4:29 pm

Veno: “Yes, I will be watching Von…Whom else’s hands will you be squeezing tonight?”

Only yours. No one else in my family likes tennis — it’s soccer, soccer and more soccer; then baseball, ice-hockey and basketball. Get the picture — I’m the odd ball out with tennis. LOL.

August 15th, 2009 at 4:34 pm

I remember you telling me that…but rest assured…it is good that you are the factor balancing everything in your family :)

August 15th, 2009 at 4:47 pm

fed is afraid: “no way does roger lose a 5-1 lead, unless it is to nadal.”

Gotta love your humour, FIA! :-)))

August 15th, 2009 at 5:05 pm

Thanks to the poster who listed the link to ATDH.net, I didn’t know about this option.

I’m new here and will definitely be back. This has been an interesting read so I’ll let a few thoughts fly.

That article was a strange bit of writing (IMHO) I’m not a big fan of comparing players from different era’s or even overlapping generations. The comment that Roddick would beat Edberg 7 out of 10 times seems absurd, and I’m a bigger fan of Roddick’s than Edberg. As far as Roddick, being born at the wrong time, how silly? Did it ever occur to these guys that perhaps Roger was born at the right time? All the current players benefit from a 32 seeded draw at the majors instead of just 16. It helps them not only on the way up, but also once they get there.

Don’t get me wrong, I love Rogers play. But I have to admit, I’ve soured a bit on his off court persona in the last couple of years and I’ve struggled to figure out why. He seems a bit passive aggressive in his pressers when referring to other players, especially Murray. I also don’t like the whole Nike generated and ridiculous comparisons between him and Tiger. That’s the most absurd sportsbuzz among journalists who should know better. And the special clothing etc. . . Not to mention his post loss meltdowns. I see someone mentioned that Roddick didn’t do the post match interview after his loss to Roger. I’ve never held Andy not exactly a perfect role model by any stretch, but, well at least he didn’t cry. Maybe Roger should pack a case a tissues in his bag along with a jacket emblazoned with “16” for the open. His play though, is pure genius.

August 15th, 2009 at 5:37 pm

Von Says:

“…so why would that Madrid loss still be haunting Djokovic? If Roddick could bounce back from such a recent, horrible loss to Federer at Wimby, then why can’t Djokovic shed the trappings of his match v. Nadal at Madrid? Is Djokovic that mentally soft?”

– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

Djokovic held 3 Match points that day, and erred on one of them. He’d already lost two very tough Finals to Nadal prior to that match – Monte Carlo and Rome. I said what I did only because losses like that linger very long in the memory. I remember Sampras saying Agassi went into his tailspin because he was so deeply haunted by losing the 1995 US Open Final to Sampras after rolling through that summer winning 4 tournaments. It took Agassi a few years to recover from that US Open loss. Sampras, in his book, talked about a chat he & Agassi right after that match when Andre gave him a lift on his jet. Sampras understood at that moment Agassi was puzzled, impressed and flabbergasted that Sampras did little more then eat, drink, breathe and sleep tennis. Agassi came face to face with the Sampras commitment to play, which he fully knew he himself didn’t have. At that time Agassi was more a celebrity – high profile wife (Brooke Shields) and life. Agassi thought back then that all it took was talent to succeed. When he came out of his nosedive to #141 back to #1 it was due to one thing and one thing only: hard work. The same hard work he’d seen in Sampras on that plane ride years earlier.

That’s how much a loss, especially a tough one, can stay with professional players. You kinda know something has to change – what you’re doing isn’t enough even though you feel like you’ve given all you thought you had left. That’s probably what’s lurking in Novak’s head these days. His record to Nadal tells the tale: he’s lost 14 of their 18 matches. So I do think that match has left him sort of aimless as to what he needs to change to be better.

August 15th, 2009 at 8:09 pm

Roger got rope-a-doped by the Ali lookalike! He thought with a 6-7, 6-1, 5-1 scoreline, he could take chances by trying to run around his backhand and hit forehand return winners. He missed and Tsonga kept backing away to absorb everything Fed threw at him (which wasn’t much, actually!). And then after playing floaters for so long he started smacking that lethal forehand and Fed had no answer since he was expecting “floaters”. Classic rope-a-dope like Ali who would spend 90% of the time in a round laying on the ropes and absorbing blows and then lash out for the last few seconds and win valuable points. Good tactics and Federer had no answer. Also, maybe there is some truth to the back problem theory. He could not serve up a first serve to save himself.

August 15th, 2009 at 8:38 pm

This just shows that no one is infallible, this can happen to anyone, anyone remember Wimbledon 2007 final when Rafa was 2 sets to 1 up and 4:1 in the 4th set with two breaks of serve, he sent for the trainer, and the rest is history. Federer has won many a match that he was clearly losing. Just like Fed won 5 games in a row, Tsonga came back and won 5 games in a row. Tsonga could have won the first 5 games in a row, and Roger could have won the second 5 games in a row, neither of them had more right to win the match than the other.

I believe that there is a lot of luck and destiny in tennis, and all sport for that matter, this is why no one should be elevated to heights that make them look super-human, no one is.

August 16th, 2009 at 9:17 am

It’s pretty easy to state the obvious. Fed blew a 5-1 lead; therefore he must have choked; therefore his chance of winning the US Open is in doubt. I think a five year old can make that kind of observation.
But these losses in master series tournaments show that Fed’s competitors are pretty tough. Federer lost quite a few MS matches even during his four years of dominance. Some say he tanked these matches, but I won’t buy it. What is the reason to tank a match when you lead 5-1 in the third?
So why did he win so many GS? I don’t know, but the reason can’t be weak competition. Maybe he’s a better Slam player than the rest.

August 16th, 2009 at 2:26 pm

To puckbandit,

Thanks for saying what I wanted to say about Roger. I am so over him damning other players with faint praise and his backhanded compliments. But the thing that will stick with me always is his behavior at the AO after his loss to Rafa. It was an inexcusable display of self-indulgent histrionics. He took it away from Rafa and that was a disgrace. Yet there was Rafa comforting him in what should have been his moment of well-earned triumph. I don’t know how Rafa does it. He is a better person than I am.

Now that Fed has his precious record, I guess we won’t see any more of these public tearful outbursts. One can only hope! Roger believes that the world revolves around him and his obsessive desire to be GOAT. I am disgusted and frankly bored with him and his narcissistic needs. I don’t know what happened to him in that match with Tsonga and I don’t care. Just listen to the Fed fans who suddenly are aghast that anyone would dare criticize their hero. But if people are trashing Rafa and saying he’s done because of tendinitis, washed up, whatever, that’s just fine with them.

Roger tried to minimize Rafa’s injury and time off from the game. Typical! Nice to see that he doesn’t even bother to reach out to the guy who so generously tried to ease his own grief and pain. But I believe in karma and that what goes around, comes around. Maybe Roger just got a little of it back in that match with Tsonga. So how does it feel, Roger fans? How do you like it when your idol gets trashed by the likes of Sean Randall? I had to listen to it when he said Rafa pulled out of Wimbledon due to fear of losing, rather than injury.

It’s totally fine to go after Rafa, but Roger – No way! Well, too bad, everyone’s fair game. I don’t know what happened to Roger the would-be GOAT in that match with Tsonga, but it sure was nice to see him get humiliated after his conceited and incessant self-praise AND his condescending remarks about his fellow tennis players. Yes, what goes around does, indeed, come around sometimes.

I saw Rafa’s match with Del Potro and he’s moving much better than I expected. His knees look healthy and good and that makes me very happy. The form will come back. Anyone who thinks Rafa isn’t going to come back will have a huge surprise in store for them. He has been written off, derided, scorned so much it’s ridiculous. But he’s coming back and I am eager to watch the next chapter in Rafa’s storied career.

August 16th, 2009 at 6:47 pm

So Mindy if you believe in karma then Roger must be a saint, 15 grand slams and a happy family life,not bad is it? As for that damn hug in Australia,anyone with the least bit of genuine kindness would know thats the last thing to do when someone is trying to hold themselves together.I wish Roger had punched him in his stupid phony face.

August 16th, 2009 at 10:03 pm

Jock,

Thanks for setting me straight, you moron! Believe me, I am sorry that Rafa did what he did. He should have just told Roger to go to the locker room and shed his cry baby tears! That arrogant, insufferable jerk! So he got what he wanted, after all.

There is not limit on karma. Sometimes it takes a little longer. But it comes around and it sure did in that match. I’ll take it any way I can get it.

You are a typical moronic Fed fan. I knew there would be a few of you idiots attacking me. I was right. When I think of the crap I have had to read from the likes of you!

Roger wouldn’t have had the guts to punch Rafa in the face. The only thing he does is stab him in the back! So you have the gall to think Rafa is a phony! Like he did that out of fakeness? You must be confusing the would-be GOAT, your guy Fed! I have lost all respect for him. His preening and complimenting himself are absolutely insufferable. But I think Rafa has learned his lesson and won’t waste his good manners on the likes of Roger again.

I wish Rafa had laughed in Roger’s tear-stained face! To take that moment away from Rafa, a great win by a truly great champion who knows how to be humble, gracious and classy, was a complete and utter disgrace.

People like you make me sick. You have no decency and no respect for anyone other than Roger. To trash Rafa’s gesture of decency and kindness is beneath contempt, but typical of what I would expect from the likes of you.

August 16th, 2009 at 10:58 pm

Players now compete with Roger instead of believing the propaganda and tossing in the towel because the commentators have put him on a pedestal. To be honest, now that I think of it, Tsonga thought he’d lost the match and wasn’t even trying in the 3rd set, and still came back from 1:5 to win. Roger won the 2nd set because Tsonga was suffering from his sore elbow, otherwise, Tsonga would have won it in straight sets. Lately, Roger doesn’t win as easily as he used to, quite a few of his sets go to tie-breaks or 7:5.

Mindy, you’ve expressed everything I think of the crying ‘GOAT’. How anyone could behave like that after losing to someone who had won their first H/C GS when they already had 3 under their belt is beyond me. What also gets me is the way everyone assumed Sampras would be only too pleased for Roger to break his record, why would he?

August 17th, 2009 at 7:36 am

It has been a good 7 months since Roger’s crying incident. MOVE ON already. Nadal cried after his 2007 wimbledon loss, albeit not to the same degree. Roddick had balancing tears. Big deal.

My point is, these players are human beings with human emotions & feelings….not cartoon characters for your amusement. Tennis is their life, so of course, they are bound to react badly to a tough 5th set loss. I have seen grown men cry & become totally recluse after losing their jobs to the recession. That is what normal human beings do.

Appreciate the tennis instead of clutching to perceived flaws in the players. Try it….more enjoyable than winding yourselves up over nothing. Thing is perceived arrogance (Roger) or false humilty (Rafa) won’t prevent them from winning. lol. It is the raquet that does the talking, so if anything, criticise their game.

Thank you Rafa & Roger for giving is such wonderful heart stopping matches for the past 4.5 years.

VAMOS Rafa! ALLEZ Roger!

August 17th, 2009 at 9:22 am

Looool, thanks so much for the amount of times you guys make me laugh…Oh my, life is good. You people have got serious issues, getting all wound up and emotional and even right out mad discussing the behaviour of people you don’t even know personally and get all riled up when other unknowns write something negative about someone you favour…..Hilarious and it sincerely makes my day reading those rants!!! Why? Because in the greater scheme of things(which is our respective personal lives) it is unbelievably trivial and insignificant!!!
And get a grip already, we’re talking about athletes, sportsmen, who are there for our entertainment, nothing more nothing less….

August 17th, 2009 at 11:53 am

Veno,

I agree with most that you say….just to add that in as much as it’s for the spectator’s entertainment, for the players, it’s more than that…it’s a competition, a way of life…so for them, family aside, tennis is probably the most important thing. And more for lower ranked players (below top 100…just a reasonable assumption) because they don’t have the millions to travel, pay coaches, etc…so for them, tennis is indeed their day job, hence the need to do well whenever the opportunity presents itself.

I’m not sure why commenters on this blog look for personal trait flaws in these players (yet they aren’t flaws per se). Anyone who watches other sports will know that the losing team in a final of world-cup football, especially if it’s through a penalty shoot (akin to a 5th set which goes beyond 6 games all) will be in tears.

Similarly, look at Bolt’s celebrations after olympic sports & yesterdays ground-breaking 9.58sec. I visit athletics blogs & everyone is so happy for Bolt or dissecting game plans of other players. None of this name calling on tennis blogs. I shudder to think what names would be hurled at Federer & Nadal if they celebrated their wins to 1/100th of a degree as much as Bolt.

I have to force myself to believe that all these name callings are just for laughs….otherwise tennis fans will soon be on each others throats like in football/soccer *shudders*!

I am new commenting to any blog (been lurking a while)…but am really of two minds whether to stay or leave. I used to have a laugh, but not so much any more. Obviously, there is freedom of speech but it would be better if it stuck to games styles, plans, MTOs & other related on court mannerisms…for those who have to be negative, there’d still be plenty to attack without getting personal with the players (as Veno points out, we don’t personally know them) or worse still with other commenters (at least we very vaguely have an idea of the players through our TV sets, but none whatsoever of fellow commenters!)

August 17th, 2009 at 2:17 pm

lala: “for those who have to be negative, there’d still be plenty to attack without getting personal with the players (as Veno points out, we don’t personally know them) or worse still with other commenters (at least we very vaguely have an idea of the players through our TV sets, but none whatsoever of fellow commenters!)”

Apply the above on ‘fellow commenters’ to your comment to me on the other thread with respect to my defense. BTW, I wasn’t the one ‘protesting’, I was ‘defending’ my right to speech by my attacker; hope you can see the difference.

August 17th, 2009 at 2:52 pm

Von,

I have enjoyed reading most of your posts. However,like a few posters here, you sometimes do go overboard and the line between protest/defence/attack gets blurred….because in that case, then every single commenter here will say the same thing, & all name callings are fair game. So whoever was apparently attacking you can in the same breath say to you “I wasn’t the one ‘protesting’, I was ‘defending’ my right to speech by my attacker”….hope you also see the point. And sometimes, it’s just better to let things go instead overly defending.

Obviously,I don’t know you personally….neither did my post claim to do so…and as I’ve stated above, everyone has a right to free speech, hence can be as polite or insulting as they wish. It’s just that I believe you had posted consecutively on the same issue, with each post becoming as vicious as your ‘attackers’ (at least from what I read)….

Perhaps I should have said “everyone” as opposed to “Von”…I probably wrote your name because if I remember (don’t know which blog it was in), despite no one answering,you still you kept on posting. From reading, the tone of the posts indicated being worked up, hence my comment of calming down & protesting. Obviously, I don’t know if you were actually worked up at all or laughing & smiling behind your computer screen (as am doing right now. lol) as you wrote those posts. I didn’t call you any name neither did I personally attack you. To me, reading, from the tone of the posts, it seemed like protesting & to be fair, slightly attacking. But to you, it was defending yourself. Fair enough.

Nothing personal because as you can see, I have expressed & expanded the same views on this blog concerning the last few posts with rafa & roger name callings & absolutely nothing on your post. Apologies if it came across the wrong.

Hope to continue reading your posts. Here’s to a wonderful week of tennis!

August 17th, 2009 at 4:19 pm

Von,

I have searched & found the blog. My only post on the particular blog was:

“lala Says:

For petes-sake Von, calm down!!! You protest too much.

Posted August 16th, 2009 at 9:37 pm”

How this can be equated to a personal attack on you (as a fellow commenter)I really don’t know. lol. Compare this to what you were posting on that thread & a few posts on roger & rafa on this thread. Once again apologies if the calm down/protest thing offended you.

Anyway, to each his own. Enjoy the tennis!:D

August 17th, 2009 at 4:38 pm

lala: If I were to answer your post, I’d have to give you an historical review and a long explanation of what goes on on these threads, and I’m not going to do that. However, I hope you will be able in time, to discern more accurately as to what’s written and by whom, before jumping to conclusions and/or offering advice. I do have one suggestion though, and that is, that you read from the very first post of a thread before jumping to any conclusions. Additionally, I would suggest that you read Margot’s post on the thread following your remarks wherein you told me to ‘calm down’. She’s been posting here a lot longer than you have and she’s got a lot more insight as to what really transpires in most situations than you’d have presently.

Yes, I was laughing behind my keyboard to see how some are so easily lead by others, and the venom strength in numbers (reinforcement) can bring out in some posters. Anyway, that said, to coin your phrase, which is one I use often, to each his/her own. Also, enjoy the tennis, and am happy to know I provide you with some enjoyable reading, albeit positive and/or negative. Have a good day, and thanks for the discussion.

August 17th, 2009 at 4:57 pm

You know I have to say that I normally would not post something with such strong language. I will refrain from answering anyone who pretends to be a psychologist or who needs to read anything more into my posts than was originally intended.

I have endured the comments of hatred and disdain towards Rafa, while refraining from commenting. I do actually have much more serious issues in my life right now and to expend more energy talking to people who will never hear me, seems to be useless. But this time I felt that I need to unburden myself.

The very idea that anyone would think Rafa has “false” modesty would be laughable, if it wasn’t so insulting. Rafa could just as easily decided not to compliment Roger in such a respectful manner. But he has been brought up in a manner which requires that he give dignity and consideration to his opponents.

Was it false modesty that made Rafa say that he hoped Roger would win the French Open, after he had his most shocking defeat at the hands of Soderling? Does anyone here think that was easy to say? Rafa could just as well have remained silent. I thought it was beyond generous. He had no reason to do it other than his own sincere desire to see Roger finally win the one grand slam that had eluded him up to that point. The only one who has stood in his way was Rafa. Now he was gone and he gave Roger his blessing. I can say that I would never have been able to be so charitable in my own moment of despair.

It’s one thing to win with grace, class and dignity. It’s quite another to lose in the same manner. Rafa has shown what it means to be a true champion. He is humble in both victory and defeat. I admire him for that enormously. Roger has not learned to do the same. Even though I wasn’t a fan of Roger’s, I at least respected his great achievements as a tennis player. But I do not feel that way anymore. His annoying tendency to build himself up at the expense of his fellow tennis players is a weakness that is quite unappealing to me. I disliked his rather petty comments and behavior after Rafa beat him back-to-back last year at RG and Wimbledon and became the number one player. It was unseemly. So Roger cannot lose with grace. He can only win with it. Too bad. That’s not how the greats from the past conducted themselves. I am speaking of the incomparable Rod Laver, a true gentleman if ever there was one.

I don’t know why Roger feels that he must be the GOAT, that this is necessary for him. I can’t get inside his head. I only know that Pete Sampras, Angre Agassi, John McEnroe, and Bjorn Borg didn’t seem to feel that anyone who stood in their way of winning everything was a usurper. I do not believe in the whole GOAT argument. But Roger’s fans are as obsessed with it as he is. Maybe they think if Roger is the GOAT, then some of the glory will rub off on them and make them better than the ordinary people they are.

I said what I needed to say. If some here want to attack me, then so be it. It is something that has bothered me for quite some time. Now I just want to focus on Rafa’s comeback and how wonderful it is to see him playing again. Some may write him off, but they do so at the risk of looking the fool. I would never bet against Rafa.

August 17th, 2009 at 5:30 pm

Von, if you read my post, you will notice thatI said that although I have never commented, I have been reading for a very very long time (along with other tennis sites), so I actually do know what transpires here. Hence my comparison between tennis, athletics & football blogs. Sadly, in football/soccer, the ‘hatred’ spills to real life with fans engaging in physical fights.

And besides, I do not need further insight to comment on something like “I wish Roger had punched him in his stupid phony face.” or “People like you make me sick.” or “That arrogant, insufferable jerk” lol.

Even Veno has expressed a similar view to mine as far as the name calling & getting upset is concerned….so I do not need to be an old commenter to express a valid view or give ‘advise’ as you put it. But to put the record straight, I am simply expressing an opinion, not giving any form of advise.

Besides, this is an open blog, free for all to read and comment as much or as little and as polite or insulting as they please.

I have mentioned nothing about your comments on this particular blog (until you mentioned it)…I really don’t know where you are coming or going with all this. And yes, I do read from the first post of a blog…..as I said & repeat, I’ve been reading like forever, so I do know what am commenting on. There are many more people out there reading but do not comment, hence a blog can have over 1000 views but only 20 or so people commenting. This doesn’t mean that only the 20 have valid views or opinions. There are more tennis fans than blogs suggest, hence the 15K to 20K fans packed in a stadium.

And no, I won’t go back to the other blogs to confirm anything because I know what I commented on & stand by it. I read sports blogs for enjoyment & get a laugh. I’ll watch some sports instead.:D

VAMOS Rafa/DelP! ALLEZ Roger! C’mon M/RAndy….hoping for some great on-court battles in the coming month.

August 17th, 2009 at 6:03 pm

lala: “And besides, I do not need further insight to comment on something like “I wish Roger had punched him in his stupid phony face.” or “People like you make me sick.” or “That arrogant, insufferable jerk” lol.”

Well, thank God I didn’t say that or else my head would have been put under the guillotine already. LOL.

“I have mentioned nothing about your comments on this particular blog (until you mentioned it)…I really don’t know where you are coming or going with all this.”

My bad, I should have copied and pasted your comments on the thread that I was referencing and is applicable, but was lazy to do so, and then it would have been more appropriate, instead of trying to take a shortcut. Lazyness at times is one of my shortcomings, sorry.

“I’ll watch some sports instead.:D”

At least you got to laugh. Try watching Track & Field it’s nice, short and sweet. And also enjoy the tennis!! You certainly covered the romance languages in your come ons for the players. Jolly good!!

August 17th, 2009 at 6:18 pm

BTW, lala, who’s your fave player? I ask this since you’ve mentioned 5 of them, but you must have a No. 1 fave. yes?

August 17th, 2009 at 6:42 pm

@Von: “Well, thank God I didn’t say that or else my head would have been put under the guillotine already. LOL.”

I think we are finally on the same page. This is what I’ve been saying all along. My original post on this thread was based on many comments like the ones I quoted on all players…not anything you mentioned. I only pick on Roger & Rafa because being the most successful, they automatically get the most ardent fans & ‘haters’ in terms of numbers. I think we’re clear now. That being said, I also understand what you meant by defending yourself.

Yes, track & field is my favourite actually …..I read somewhere on this website that “forget Federer, Woods & Phelps….Usain Bolt is the real deal”…lol…but alas, all over in 10 seconds! Still, there’s something about watching tennis that makes the blood rush & makes the heart beat faster depending on whom you’re supporting…oh, & hide behind the sofa or switch off the TV hoping that when I switch it on 5 mins later, the scores will have changed to favour whoever I’m support. lol. On one hand I want a competitive match, on the other, I want an easy win for whoever I’m supporting. Always a dilemma in tennis. Hopefully I survive the next month with all my veins & heart intact…too many players in the cards!

Anyone know “c’mon” in Serbian? Poor Djokovic also needs some support in these tough times….barely gets mentioned as a contender for anything…how fast times change. Hopefully he does well at Cincy before the Open to lift his confidence.

August 17th, 2009 at 7:22 pm

Von,

I’m really torn between the players at the moment. I more or less support a style of play as opposed to a particular player. So on any day, I’ll support players with a beautiful/graceful game. Federer, Wawrinka, Haas, Djokovic & Gasquet (come back already…what a waste of talent).

Then next I support the flamboyance & fighting spirit… so Tsonga, Monfils & Rafa rate highly after the first batch.

So based on this I suppose since Roger & Rafa, mostly reach far in Slams draws Roger is my no1 & Rafa 2. So in as much as I prefer Roger over Rafa, I never want Rafa to lose before a final because I can be assured of a great battle. (with the exception of the french open ‘coz otherwise Roger would never win it. hehe…gotta be honest)

But from the recent events @french & Wimby & the re-emergence of Roddick & others who’ve finally found themselves….the Soderlings, Gonzalezs, & DelPs of this world, am a bit confused. @Wimby, when Andy took the 1st set, I was like….if Fed is playing practise shots@ break point, then fair game…go for it Andy! Then Fed takes sets 2 & 3 and am like “If you’re not called nadal, & don’t take your early chances (Roddicks 2nd set nightmare) you can’t beat Roger in a 5th set”. How wrong l was! By 10all 5th set, I just didn’t care…I took survival of the fittest/I’ll support the winner approach. And who can forget DelP’s great battle@ the french?

I suppose then overall is fav for me is Fed ‘coz of the ‘beautiful’ game & fighting spirit…but again, this great support is limited to slams. I don’t care too much for 3set events unless a ranking is in contention. So if say Tsonga or Warwrnka beats Fed in a masters, I’m still happy ‘coz they too deserve it. But today, I shed my imaginary tears for Rafa’s drop to no3. I prefer Roger but again don’t want anyone else@ no1 or 2 except these two…at least for now. After 4.5 yrs, I guess I’ve fooled myself to believe this is their birth right. hehe.

It’s fair to say that the one top20 player I actually dislike is Murray.I simply can’t stand his style…makes me sleepy…but it works for him, so I begrudgingly say more power to him.

August 17th, 2009 at 8:15 pm

@ Von: BTW, lala, who’s your fave player? I ask this since you’ve mentioned 5 of them, but you must have a No. 1 fave. yes?
—————————————————–

I answered with a long post but seems to have disappeared. If it reappears, I apologise for the double post.
In short, I support a style of play as opposed to a particular player. I prefer a beautiful/graceful game so in a slam, will always support the likes of Fed, Warwinka, Haas, Djokovic & Gasquet (come back already…what a waste of talent!)

Next I like flambouyance and a fighter, so Tsonga, Monfils & Rafa rate highly. I imagine myself in the crowd as they rouse the fans.

So ‘coz only Fed& Rafa, so far, always go deep in draws, overall Fed is my favourite ‘coz of the beautiful game & fighting spirit. Rafa is a close second fav.

However, with the re-emergence of Roddick & Gonzalez & discovery of other lion hearted players -the Soderlings, & DelPs of this world- am a bit torn whom to support for the open. Previously I support both Fed & Rafa in their respective draws then support Fed in a final. The exception to this has been@ the french open where against logic, I hope Rafa can lose so that Fed could finally lift that trophy ( twisted I know. hehe).

However going into the US open, I’ll always support Fed’s style, but at this moment of time, I say fair game to all players. Fed wants 6in a row, Rafa wants to complete his slam across four surfaces, Murray, DelP, Tsonga, Gonzales & Soderling are in the mix hunting for their 1st while Roddick & Djokovic want to drop the one slam wonder tags. Seems like it will be very competitive.

Gotta be honest however & say the one top20 player I dislike is Murray. His style makes me sleep.With the exception of the cross-court passing shots, I find his style overly dull. However, it seems to work for him so I begrudgingly say more power to him.

August 17th, 2009 at 9:51 pm

lala asks “Anyone know “c’mon” in Serbian? ” I don’t know for sure, but I’ve seen people write “Adje Nole” before, so it may mean something like “C’mon”.

I am like you, in the sense that I like a lot of players, and sort of decide on a match-by-match basis who to cheer for, and if two faves are playing in a match I often just hope for the best guy on the day. Novak has been a most recent and top fave of mine since he broke through in 2007, so I appreciate your support for him. He had some fans around here, but given his inconsistent form many of them aren’t around or don’t post that often. Too bad. Like you, I think it’s crucial for him to get a couple of good wins to give him a boost. An MS title would be a good start. : )

August 18th, 2009 at 1:18 pm

I rarely post on this site. I am mainly a lurker. Those people who have trashed Rafa know who they are. I dislike engaging in name calling and insults, but sometimes, enough is enough!

However, it would be remiss of me not to thank those of you who have been kind and generous in your comments about Rafa’s return to tennis. Even some Roger fans have been gracious enough to say that they are glad he is back. There are others here who have said that, even though they are not a fan of Rafa, that they are glad to see him back. I am grateful to see that many here understand that it’s a good thing to see Rafa
back on court.

To Von,

You may dismiss my comments if you wish, but they came from frustration, pain and hurt at seeing how Rafa was being unfairly attacked. One can only take just so much. I don’t normally use those words, but it was justified in light of the reply to my initial post. I have no intention of defending myself anymore. I said what I had to say and the people who have spoken so callously and cruelly about Rafa, know who they are.

I am looking forward to great tennis at Cincy and the U.S. Open. We are fortunate to live in an era of men’s tennis in which we have been treated to some brilliant tennis. It’s a pleasure to watch such great play. It is especially gratifying to see Andy Roddick finally playing outstanding tennis and being competitive again. I wish him luck. While Andy Murray is not a favorite of mine, I also congratulate him on attaining the #2 rank. He has shown determination, a great work ethic, willingness to train hard to improve his game and fitness. I wish his rise did not come as a consequence of Rafa’s injury and inability to play, but it is what it is. Unlike Roger’s fans, I have nothing bad to say about Andy Murray. Of course, I hope that Rafa can elevate his level of play and get back his form and timing for the U.S. Open. But whatever happens, I am just glad to see him back moving well and healthy once more.

August 18th, 2009 at 4:30 pm

Mindy:

” To Von,

“You may dismiss my comments if you wish, but they came from frustration, pain and hurt at seeing how Rafa was being unfairly attacked.”

I was not in any way being dismissive of your comments, and believe me, if anyone understands your frustration and pain on unjust attacks on some players, it would be me. I was merely trying to emphasize the gravity of retaliation I’d be faced with if I were to say anything remotely offensive. I’m sure you see how often I’m attacked for just making an ‘observation’. In short, nothing is fair on these threads — some can talk non-stop and degrade some players freely and is given a free pass, while others are ganged up on and torn to bits for just an ‘observation’ of something as simple as one player’s draw v. the other. I’m torn apart because I support a player many ‘hate’. Blogs should be about freedom of speech and expression of opinions, but sadly, it’s not the case here where there are walls and blockades put up because some don’t like to hear the truth.

FYI, I support Nadal’s comeback and look forward to his return to high level competition once again, however, it will take time. I’m also looking forward to the USO and hope that Roddick will do well there, and/or win it, if that’s possible.

Mindy, take heart, Nadal will be well again, and you’d be able to see him winning tournaments in the near future. thanks for the discussion

August 18th, 2009 at 5:15 pm

lala:

Thanks for your answer to my questions on your fave(s), etc, and also thanks for understanding my stance on my defense. I’m a reactor not an initiator.

While I support a few players, I can safely say I’m not one who has the ability and/or capacity to support as many players as you are able to do simultaneously, and I commend you for being so generous. It must be fun though, to be able to watch and enjoy several matches and players and not be singularly attached to one player per se. I’m hopeless that way, and become bored and/or have zero interest watching some players compete. On the other hand, I become very excited and/or tense watching my faves when they are competing and sometimes have to walk away from the TV. LOL. I suppose this is where Track and Field has its advantages because in 10 seconds, the results are there, as opposed to tennis where some matches can be dragged out for 3 to 4 hours and can cause heart palpitations LOL. Enjoy the tennis when you watch.

August 18th, 2009 at 5:28 pm

My comments came from frustration, pain and hurt at how Roger was been unfairly attacked. One can only take so much.Personally I’m more interested in a player’s tennis then his personality,but to constantly see the character of a decent man like Roger Federer been torn apart is hard to take.Enough is enough.

August 18th, 2009 at 5:40 pm

Jock,

You’re breaking my heart! Suffice it to say that we certainly do not see eye-to-eye on the issue of Roger’s character and decency. I will let his comments about Rafa and Andy Murray speak for themselves.

If you trash your fellow tennis players, then you have opened yourself to criticism for your conduct. The legends of tennis, the ones that Roger looks up to so very much, would never, ever have said any of the things that Roger has said about Rafa. To demean his recent injury and time off from tennis in the manner in which he did, shows who and what he is. But I supposed that it was too much to expect Roger to welcome back Rafa the way Del Potro and others have.

It’s too bad that Roger keeps opening up his mouth and giving me ammunition. It’s not like I have to make this stuff up, you know.

August 19th, 2009 at 7:07 pm

To Von,

Thanks for your kind comments. It is a minefield here at times, indeed. I haven’t posted very much here. I do like to read the lively discussion and find it interesting. There are people here who truly love tennis and find it enjoyable to discuss.

I try to maintain my own standard of conduct in my comments here. But sometimes a particular issue brings out strong feelings and emotions in me. The things I spoke out about are deeply felt, long suppressed feelings of genuine disgust and outrage. I don’t expect everyone to like Rafa the way I do. That is my personal choice. But I do think that he has earned a modicum of respect for his considerable achievements.

I look forward to chatting with you as the Cincy tournament unfolds. We should have some memorable tennis at this year’s U.S. Open.

August 19th, 2009 at 7:12 pm

Mindy:

You are very welcome! I also look forward to chatting with you on Cincy and the USO. I know you haven’t been posting recently, but I’d still encourage you to post more frequently on tennis, which is the reason many of us post here, despite the negativity, which at times can be a huge turn-off and requires an iron will to overlook same. Catch ya later.

August 19th, 2009 at 7:42 pm

Mindy: I answered your post but my comments seem to have disappeared. In gist, I said ‘you’re welcome’ and i look forward to chatting with you during Cincy and the USO, and I’ll catch ya later.

August 19th, 2009 at 9:08 pm

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August 22nd, 2009 at 1:20 pm