Federer, Nadal Lead Top Four in Cincinnati Quarterfinals

Nice JB playing well and Murray playing the same as he has the past few weeks. He’s has an easy route to Montreal Title and an easy draw this week too.

August 21st, 2009 at 12:40 pm

I didn’t see the match, but by all accounts Murray played a shockingly bad first set. In the course of winning the second set, he won a 53-stroke rally. In the third set Benneteau ran out of steam. If Andy had to have a below-par match, let’s hope he’s got it out of the way.
Fed or Hewitt next. Probably Fed, who’s leading 5-2 in the first set. On previous form, Murray should beat Federer, but I won’t be making any bets!

August 21st, 2009 at 3:22 pm

Rog has split personality. Completely different player than against Ferrer.

August 21st, 2009 at 3:45 pm

3 aces to serve it out. He obviously runs like chicken from MAndy.

August 21st, 2009 at 3:58 pm

Yep Fed played better today; although his first serve percentage is still on the low side (53% for the match), he’s winning a lot of points off aces and on his second serve, so he’s still coming through just fine. He also returned better today, I thought, and thus was able to get the breaks. That said, Hewitt helped him a lot by having an off serving day; he was below 50% for the match, and he also didn’t return up to his normal standard.

Here’s hoping Djoko and Rafa can come through…

August 21st, 2009 at 4:13 pm

Jane, Thats a good analysis..did not watch the match. so thanks. I am glad Fed played better, I follow the score and It shows he served well both 1st and second serves, never faced a break point.

August 21st, 2009 at 4:33 pm

Hey, why is Nadal seeded 2 in the tournament instead of 3? Where the rankings not out before the seeding took place? I ask because Murray earned the no. 2 in the previous tournament so I would have thought the he’d be on the other side of the draw.

August 21st, 2009 at 4:51 pm

Hewitt wasn’t fighting today, he was having problems with his knee. I think tendonitis must be contagious. The match was boring, even Andy M coach fell asleep.

August 21st, 2009 at 4:52 pm

JCZ, I think it’s because the rankings don’t come out until Monday the following week and by then the Cincy draw was a done deal.

August 21st, 2009 at 5:00 pm

Vamos Tomas!!

August 21st, 2009 at 5:03 pm

Well well!

Tomorrow’s semifinal matches may help answer 2 questions –

1) Is Rafa back in form? Playing the Djoker should be a fine test, and

2) Is the Roger of French Open and Wimbledon going to be the favourite to win the US Open in everyone’s books? A good win over Murray and then knocking off Rafa or Nola will go a long way towards that.

I know I am being presumptious but does anyone really think Berdych has a chance against Rafa? Sure he leads Rafa 3-1 on hard surfaces, but I think we are going tot see the top 4 seeds in the semis. It would be nice for a change.

August 21st, 2009 at 6:33 pm

strong start from rafa.

August 21st, 2009 at 7:18 pm

Wowowow ! Nadal on fire and he looks like back to his best here.

August 21st, 2009 at 7:21 pm

toward the end yesterday rafa kinda looked like he was back and he has built on that confidence hitting much deeper and with a lot of pop on hit shots. he’s surprising me with his down the line forehand. keep it going.

August 21st, 2009 at 7:27 pm

Looks like it’s going to be the top four in Cincy. Perhaps a rematch of last year’s final? I

August 21st, 2009 at 7:57 pm

*Looks like it’s going to be the top four in Cincy. Perhaps a rematch of last year’s final? I think Murray’s going to win this tournament but important for Nadal to get up to speed.

August 21st, 2009 at 7:58 pm

blah – “Perhaps a rematch of last year’s final?” Hmmm…the way Rafa is playing, I can’t see that Djoko will beat him. Novak has been scraping through his matches. Now, if Djoko serves really well, then he may have a chance, but I’d pick Rafa to come through and Murray on the other side. Fed’s serve has been quite good, but Murray’s generally been able to handle it. Depends on how aggressive Roger plays, and what Murray’s reply is. To me, that will be the tighter match. But I could be way off. Who knows? It might be Nadal and Fed USO preview?

August 21st, 2009 at 8:01 pm

Jane- I think Nadal and Djoko always play tight matches. They’re just right for each other, lol, but I think this time Nadal’s still recovering from injury and it will give Djoko the edge. Let’s not forget Djokovic beat Nadal here last year in the semis too, and absolutely dominated him in one of the sets. This is one of the faster hardcourts so I think advantage to Djokovic. As for Murray- I am picking him in every 3set hardcourt tournaments. His game is sneaky, not very flashy but before you know it you are down a break. If Federer somehow beats Murray then Nadal though- wow. Can you imagine what that would do.

August 21st, 2009 at 8:08 pm

“If Federer somehow beats Murray then Nadal though- wow. Can you imagine what that would do.”

That will be Fed the biggest fave in US Open.

August 21st, 2009 at 8:23 pm

blah, I think Djoko was playing better last year, but I may be wrong, and maybe Djoko will have an advantage, as Rafa is not returning to his normal capabilities. So if Djoko can serve well, he’s in with a chance no doubt. I’d love for him to get to the finals and defend his points.

Kimmi, “That will be Fed the biggest fave in US Open.”

Isn’t hard not to already call Fed “the biggest fave” to win the USO? I mean, he’s won the last 5 of them after all! LOL. So I’d say Fed’s the biggest fave, with the 2 Andy’s right behind, and then I’d say Rafa, Djok, JMDP. In roughly that order.

August 21st, 2009 at 8:27 pm

Wow!! Tomas won only 8 points on Nadal’s serve. I think Rafa is playing like old Rafa.

August 21st, 2009 at 8:38 pm

Rafa has hit some vintage shots tonight.

August 21st, 2009 at 8:49 pm

That’s it – top four in the semis. Not bad after the top 8 made the quarters in last week’s event. Speaks volumes of the quality of the men’s tour. Woot to all of them!

August 21st, 2009 at 8:57 pm

good to see rafa win another match. that completes the top 4 in the semifinals. two nemeses in the first. no. 1 vs. no. 2. and ailing rafa vs. slumping djokovic. cannot ask for more.

August 21st, 2009 at 9:00 pm

The commentators in my stream predicting the win for Murray and Nadal…well well well best ticket in town…lets wait and see.

August 21st, 2009 at 9:00 pm

Kimmi, I think those commentators may be right; we’ll soon find out. Mind you, Fed looked stronger in his most recent match than Murray did in his, so it’s tough to say.

i am it, sometimes you remind me of another poster called, variously – Federer streak / Xeno Freak / Tennis Freak / Shital Green. But I am likely mistaken.

August 21st, 2009 at 9:12 pm

Jane, they also said the conditions were very windy this afternoon. Was it that bad ? maybe why Murray was struggling (Murray does not like wind, remember IW with rafa). If the conditions are the same tomorrow afternoon, it will be tough for both, the one who handles better will come out the victor.

August 21st, 2009 at 9:20 pm

Kimmi, I believe Murray was saying after his previous match that the swirling wind had been a problem, but he won that match OK. Being biased, I prefer to think he just had a bad day at the office against Benneteau.
In view of the head-to-head, the semi should be a good indication of where Federer’s game is at the moment. In the other semi, what we’ll learn is where Djoker’s HEAD is at the moment! If it’s functioning, I think he may win.

August 21st, 2009 at 9:29 pm

I am inclined to agree with Colin, Kimmi. Sure, it was windy, and that may’ve throw Murray off the first set or so. But it seemed to me more like he was searching for some rhythm on his serve and meanwhile Benneteau come out of the gates swinging.

August 21st, 2009 at 9:38 pm

From the NY Times: http://straightsets.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/08/21/a-tournament-for-stars/

August 21st, 2009 at 10:00 pm

Saw Berdych, Gimelslob, doubles pair Moodie/Norman, and Djokovic on the practice courts today. Slob was trying to pretend he knew how to play then he had to leave because Novak had court time. Not many players left to practice. Weather was not as hot today but still… Didn’t watch the Fed match as we were on the grandstand watching doubles. Again Jane, only one time was I worried about Novak when he had a lapse in the 2nd set, but I never thought he would lose the match. Von the word around here was Roddick was sick the day he lost.I did’t think it was that windy during the Murray match. Benneteau can just be troublesome. I can’t believe we saw all top four players on Wed and today. Worth the money for sure! We are getting burned out though as we get here around 11am and leave at 10pm every night. Goodnight all.

August 21st, 2009 at 10:53 pm

you givin me all those weird names cuz i did not praise your favorite players? you wanted me to leave, huh? what did i do to you mrs. ross or connolly or mrs. weal or whoever you are. i don’t engage other posters so stop stalking me.

August 21st, 2009 at 11:01 pm

Sar:

What great timing! I just returned home and was checking to see what happened in Nadal’s match and there was your post.

“Von the word around here was Roddick was sick the day he lost.”

Thanks for sharing that bit of information on Roddick. I knew it had to be something wrong with him and as I had mentioned previously, I saw the same signs in Indy ’07 when he had eaten some contaminated food and played (even though sick) a very competitive match as he did on Wednesday evening v. Querrey.

BTW, are you sure you didn’t jinx him with the coin toss? LOL. Seriously though, I’m so happy to hear he talked to you and asked how you were doing, as it’s just like him to be so outgoing and friendly.

Sar, have an enjoyable time at the SF and finals and all my very best to you, your family and your fave (I know you know who that is) for an enjoyable time at Cincy.

August 21st, 2009 at 11:06 pm

My apologies i am it. I am not stalking you! You just reminded me of another/other posters. Sorry, my bad.

August 21st, 2009 at 11:07 pm

Yes, thanks again for the update Sar; sounds like you’re getting your money’s worth / time’s worth of tennis – enjoy!

August 21st, 2009 at 11:09 pm

I don’t think we should place too much emphasis on how Murray played today. I’d say he played just enough to win and was holding back some, not wanting to show his hand, but I could be wrong.

August 21st, 2009 at 11:10 pm

Kimmi, not sure if you’re still around/watching, but Shrieky is about to play. Jankovic got knocked out by Kleyboanova, so it could be an “all-OVA” semi if Sharapova wins tonight. On the other side, Dementieva will face Serena, and truth be told, Serena has looked the best in Toronto out of all the girls. But Dementieva knows how to play her pretty well, as we saw at Wimbledon.

August 21st, 2009 at 11:15 pm

Yeeeeeh..Jane, I have been following WTA the whole week and its very interesting, we got a good field in toronto this year. I just watched Jankovic/Kleybanova and the match was long but great. Kleybanova just won me over tonight, she was gutsy…fighting all the way to the end. And Jankovic is such a drama queen, she was complaining, asking the crowd if she should challenge LOL…I never really like her but she is tough to beat when she is on and she made the match interesting today.

I think some of Sharapoca form is coming back, she is serving much better here and shrieking even more. She is looking good for this one tonight. I agree about Serena, she was looking G-O-O-D today ….

August 21st, 2009 at 11:32 pm

Kimmi, I do think Sharapova is getting some of her pre-injury form back too – especially noticed it last night, as she was hitting some nice winners to all angles of the court. I haven’t been able to watch all of the women’s but I’ve been following. Radwanska is all over Maria’s second serves, so if Maria’s serve drops off, Aggy could be back in the match. Looks like Maria lost one break back already.

August 21st, 2009 at 11:36 pm

maria is all over radwanska seond serve too…I like the was Radwanska plays, she is a clever player… slices, dropshots, lobs etc (reminds me of Hingis) but even with her clever play she will lose this easily I think because of her second serve, very poor. Shara serving for the 1st set now.

August 21st, 2009 at 11:45 pm

*I like the way Radwanska plays….

August 21st, 2009 at 11:46 pm

Yes, I’ve always liked Aggy’s variety, and I remember when she upset Sharapova at the USO. But she needs a stronger serve to *really* be a contender; she can often get deep in tournaments, but rarely (if ever?) does she win them. Is she top ten do you know?

Overall, a pretty easy set for Maria.

August 21st, 2009 at 11:52 pm

I just checked; Radwanska is ranked 13th currently and has won 4 career titles. I also noticed there is not much of a gap between Safina and Serena, so presumably if Serena wins this and the USO she will finally claim the number 1 spot, which would seem right given she’d have won 3 of the 4 slams this year.

August 21st, 2009 at 11:56 pm

13 is not bad. She now need to work hard at the gym to toughen up. She has a good game if she is stronger…

Poor safina, the loss here did not help her.

Serena is starting to get her form back, just at the right time..you are right about the ranking, and i believe Serena will regain # 1 back soon.

August 22nd, 2009 at 12:03 am

Scottish Says: “Nice JB playing well…..”

In his previous match, JB berated at a ball boy, yelling at him for almost half a minute. It was the worst I’ve ever seen. Needless to say, I was impressed he made it this far but glad he lost – no excuse for taking your frustrations out on a little kid.

August 22nd, 2009 at 12:04 am

Kimmi, Aggy could definitely toughen up – you’re right! Improve her serve and get stronger; well she’s got a break now, let’s see if she can hold onto it.

Tenisbebe, that’s too bad about Benneteau; one of the drawbacks of being on the frontlines is impressions of players must get shattered…. Anyhow, I hope you’re having some fun there!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 12:10 am

Hi Jane – It’s been very fun! Wednesday was a killer with the 4 top dogs back to back in the day session. I was patroling the boxes behind the umpire and player chairs and it was a madhouse at times, with the kids running down after the matches to get sweatbands, shirts and anything else the winners decide to toss to the crowd. Yesterday I took a needed day off & hung with friends in their box on the South side of Center Court – Great day! Today in the thick of it again. Have seen Sar & Co most every day and met Dan Martin on Tuesday which was nice. Don’t know what’s going on in Toronto but catch a glimpse of Stosur and Elena playing when zipping through the Racquet Club.

How you be, Jane?

August 22nd, 2009 at 12:30 am

tenisbebe, I be fine. Not nearly as busy as you though – wow! It sounds like you’re getting your fill. Sar has been feeding us nightly firsthand reports, which has been great. I don’t start back to work “officially” until the 8th, so I’ll get to watch a good portion of the Open. Anyhow, am off to watch the ladies. Talk to soon.

August 22nd, 2009 at 12:35 am

Aaaaarg Radwanska just could not serve for the set. I hope she gets the second set to make the match interesting…but sharapova is a fighter.

August 22nd, 2009 at 12:38 am

JCZ – the draw party was on Thursday last week in Cincy I believe and Murray didn’t get the #2 ranking til Monday this week. Hence Rafa & Fed on opposite sides of the draw. With all 4 top players in the semis and a potential Raf/Fed final, this will be the last time in some time this will be possible as draws are set up 1-2, 2-4.

Kimmi Says: “Jane, they also said the conditions were very windy this afternoon. Was it that bad?”

I was on Center Court all day and it was not that windy – you had light gusts occasionally but nothing that should have given them trouble – besides it was much less humid today – extremely pleasant temp wise – very un-Cincy-like.

Von says: “I don’t think we should place too much emphasis on how Murray played today. I’d say he played just enough to win…”

Precisely my feelings. In fact, none of the Fab 4 have come out guns blazing but instead have putzed around waiting for their opponents to make mistakes, conserving energy, then when they get into trouble, they’ve stepped it up but only just enough.

Colin – Personally I have not been impressed with Murray’s play so far – he looks tired, but that’s not surprise.

August 22nd, 2009 at 12:40 am

Tenisbebe, thanks for the feedback. I was surprised with Murray play in the 1st set, 6 double faults is unlike Murray and then I heard commentators on tennistv say it was windy…strange, then I think it was just one of those days for Murray. Tommorow interesting matches.

Jane sharapova hits DF on her match point..another lifeline for Radwanska and she takes the break.

August 22nd, 2009 at 12:50 am

Voicemale1:

Just thought I’d share some insight with you as a follow-up to our discussion on Nadal’s tendinitis and the amount of time his progress will probably take before he’s 100 percent back to snuff.

I just got through watching Nadal’s QF match courtesy of ESPN2’s delayed broadcast, and for once I’m thankful it was indeed delayed, having been out to dinner when the match was played live That said, I’ve gotta to tell you that from what I’ve seen, it’s not going to be too much longer, barring any unforeseen set-backs and/or flare-ups, before he’ll be back to vintage Nadal again. His match play to me showed a 50 percent improvement over his performance v. Mathieu, and he looked more relaxed, confident and enthusiastic. I think it won’t be much longer now, VM1, before your guy will be back to his pre-injury status. However, before yolu become too joyful, a word of caution, remember progress is cumulative and can sometimes be one step forward and two backwards when we least expect the backwards to happen.

I think, without a doubt, Nadal’s QF match was the best of the four QF matches played today.

August 22nd, 2009 at 12:54 am

i know Kimmi – this match is going on and on and on! Aggy is hanging in there and trying to fight it out but something tells me Maria will pull it out.

Tenisbebe, you’ve confirmed what I thought, which is that the top guys haven’t looked fantastic. Even while Rafa has shown some of his vintage self, he wasn’t returning super well against Berdych. It’s pretty up in the air as to who will win isn’t it? I honestly don’t know though I am inclined to think Murray and Nadal might be in the final. Who knows?!

August 22nd, 2009 at 12:56 am

tenisbebe: Hello, and hope you’re having fun amidst the hard work, or is it that you are you hardly working, and just partying with Sar and company. LOL. Anyway, whether it’s working hard, or hardly working, have fun and enjoy the balance of your Cincy stint.

August 22nd, 2009 at 12:59 am

blah Says: “Let’s not forget Djokovic beat Nadal here last year in the semis too, and absolutely dominated him in one of the sets.”

For Djoko, there was more behind that match that just a trip to the finals and a chance at the title. Last year, Rafa was on a 31 match winning streak, had won the French, Wimby, AND Toronto the previous week & only needed to get to the semis to clinch the #1 ranking. In addition, after that epic Wimby final, Rafa & Fed were getting all the media attention & while Djoko was essentially being ignored. I don’t think he liked it one bit that during Toronto & Cincy he was constantly asked questions & to comment on how wonderful Rafa & Fed were. I remember once he responded something like “Well, I DID win the AO this year…” imo he was pissed everyone was ignoring him and had a point to prove: that he is a great tennis player too. He walked out on court all business that evening & won the 1st set before Rafa could get his bearings. Granted Rafa was tired, I have no doubt, but I wouldn’t put too much emphasis on that SF win last year.

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:00 am

Maria looks, how to put it, bedraggled! She won but it looked like a tough slog in that second set.

Von, I agree that Nadal looked sharp in his quarter; Fed looked pretty good too, but Berdych was on much better form than Hewitt as far as I could tell.

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:02 am

jane, and Shara wins as predicted..WOW she can bash the tennis ball…

Tomorrow some good matches, Maria has a chance to get to the final here.

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:04 am

Tenisbebe, you make a good point about Djoko’s semi last year; I think after all the losses he’d suffered against Rafa that spring / summer (Hamburg, FO, Queens) he was gunning for a win and he knew hardcourt was his best bet and that Rafa was tired. I am not sure he is as motivated this year, although in a way the circumstances are similar (i.e., a bunch of tight matches lost to Rafa on clay earlier this spring, and Rafa somewhat ailing, though he is looking pretty strong and no tape on the knees). Djoko was on fire that first set last year; I haven’t seen him on fire like that in a while – maybe Madrid? Some of Monte Carlo? Anyhow, the best players on the day will win.

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:08 am

jane: Berdych played the best match as opposed to the other opponents of the top 4.

________________
tenisbebe: “In fact, none of the Fab 4 have come out guns blazing but instead have putzed around waiting for their opponents to make mistakes, conserving energy, then when they get into trouble, they’ve stepped it up but only just enough.”

Funny you should mention this, because to me it’s now becoming sort of a trend that when the top 4 players are playing in the early rounds through to the QFs, their MO is to just play mediocre matches and win by a few points instead of giving it their all and playing good quality tennis. I think we are being treated to better tennis and more exciting matches from the lower ranked players in the early rounds than from the top four. I don’t like what I’m seeing and I wonder how the paying fans feel about shelling out top dollar to watch below par tennis from the top guys.

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:17 am

…. Djoko is probably as motivated or even more than last year… especially because at the beginning of the year he was considered number 2 (reaching all those finals and losing them to Rafa) and now hes number 4….. in any case, he proved he could beat Rafa when he is hungry for victory….. why should that victory be discarded?

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:22 am

Kimmi – you are welcome.

Jane: Yes I think it’s very much up in the air as to who will win it but one thing’s for sure – they’ll all have to step it up tomorrow if they want the prize! The weather this weekend is supposed to be fantastic btw – mid 70’s – a gift! No “it’s too hot/humid” excuses which all the players say about playing here. I think it’s a good chance we see Federer/Nadal in the final.

BTW – had a small Serbian contingent next to me during Novak’s match, flag and all. One of the woman was yelling out to him in Serbian during the 2nd set (did you hear her?) – she told me she was saying things like “Get mad, Nole!” and then was receiving text messages from friends in Europe who were watching the match live with things like “What kind of an idiot shot was that?”. It was hilarious.

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:23 am

Von,
Its just smart thinking… if they give it their all in the first rounds then they probably wont win the next matches…. play 100% all of the time has long lasting consequences.. just ask Rafa Nadal.

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:25 am

The top ranked male tennis players are not playing mediocre tennis. If they do, they will lose considering how deep the field is. They exert just enough effort to win and since the lower ranked players are not as good as they are, that could give the illusion of playing mediocre. If the lower ranked player happens to be playing out of his mind, the top ranked player usually has the capacity to raise his game. As proof, towards the end of the tournament you see the same top players most of the time. The early rounds are meant to weed out those whose games are not among the best yet. That also explains why the later rounds are more exciting.

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:36 am

jane: “Even while Rafa has shown some of his vintage self, he wasn’t returning super well against Berdych.”

I beg to differ. I think Nadal was hitting some sublime, well measured FHs. Not to mention his serve, which to me, is showing great improvement and is an indication that even though he was laid up and not running, he devoted his time to the betterment of his serve, thus making it somewhat more of a weapon in his arsenal. Also, I noticed that even though Nadal himself wasn’t running down shots, he kept returning his shots in different directions, thus keeping Berdych on the run, and tiring out the big guy. Nadal’s the perfect example of what injury does to people, it heightens their thinking powers to compensate for their deficiencies.

Descartes’ ‘Discourse on Method’ comes to mind: “Each problem that I solved became a rule which served afterwards to solve other problems.”

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:37 am

The “Saturday Preview” at the ATP site is interesting: an important update re: Number 2 ranking – “Murray will go into the US Open as the No. 2 ranked player if he reaches the final. If Murray loses in the semi-finals to Federer and Nadal captures the title, the Spaniard will regain the No. 2 ranking.”

I wouldn’t doubt that Fed wouldn’t mind Rafa regaining number 2 so he wouldn’t face him before the finals, if at all. All Fed has to do to help that along is beat Murray! I assume Fed will play his best game tomorrow, and very aggressively – he’ll be out for revenge. LOL. It’ll be a fun match to watch, not only for that but to see how Murray responds. I don’t know what to expect from Rafa vs. Djoko; I only hope that Djoko can play better than he has been.

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:39 am

Von, I agree that Rafa’s serve was a veritable weapon during his match (he won 85% of first serve points and did not face 1 break point); however, I agreed with the commentators to which I was listening; they thought that Rafa could’ve done more on some of Berdych’s second serves. He was making some errors off the return that he wouldn’t when at his peak. But maybe it’s all in the name of conserving energy.

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:44 am

Hello Von! I owe you a long write on other matters which I will get to AFTER the tournament, promise.

Re: your assessment of Nadal’s performance today vs yesterday against PHM. Also thought he was more confident & relaxed today, hitting some killer FH passing shots when Tomas ventured foreward. He didn’t look address remarks to his box anywhere near as much today. Yesterday, he walked over there practically every game it seemed (he had his towel in that corner) to be close to Maria & his cousin. His cousin is a hottie btw – I was not even 10 meters away from them.

Did they show the “T-BYRD” cheering section on the telly? What a crack up.

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:45 am

Jane – thought Rafa was much too far back on returning T-Byrd’s second serves.

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:48 am

NachoF:
“Von,
Its just smart thinking… if they give it their all in the first rounds then they probably wont win the next matches…. play 100% all of the time has long lasting consequences.. just ask Rafa Nadal.”

Polo: “The early rounds are meant to weed out those whose games are not among the best yet. That also explains why the later rounds are more exciting.”

You both made similar comments so I’ll answer both of you at the same time as follows:

I suppose you’re right, but then again don’t you think that maybe their opponents/competition is not tough enough thus allowing them to be able to toy with them and still win? For instance, look at Hewitt and Simon today, both players had knee problems and couldn’t perform well, which meant the top guys were able to pull out the win while not having to play upper echelon tennis. All I’m asking for is to see more exciting early round matches from the top guys. Wouldn’t you guys like to see that also? Fess up.

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:52 am

tenisbebe – Yes, they did show the “T-Byrd” cheering section on TV; that was cute as I’d never seen his cheering section before, nor had I heard that nickname.

Very funny story about the “Serbian contingent” you were sitting near. They are a rambunctious bunch of fans at most events; Novak has a pretty big following in Canada I think, judging by the support he gets in Montreal at the Roger’s Cup. But lots of supporters of most of the top guys over here.

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:57 am

NachoF/Jane – re: Djoko vs Nadal’s SF last year. I did not mean to insinuate that Djoko did not win that match deservedly and overwhelmingly – he did. I only meant to point out that I notice he generates that high level of play when he has a strong outside motivation along the lines of revenge, proving a point but I don’t see him having one right now. Winning for it’s own sake doesn’t seem to be enough of a motivation for him at this point.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:02 am

tenisbebe: “Hello Von! I owe you a long write on other matters which I will get to AFTER the tournament, promise.”

I look forward to your ‘write’ AFTER the tourney, but would that ‘write’ occur this year or after next year’s Cincy? LOL. I couldn’t let that one pass — I guess you know by now that I’m a brat. ha ha. Just kidding! Seriously, do so when you can and as time permits. I’m probably going to have to get ‘Baby did a bad, bad thing’ to light a fire under you. LOL.

“Did they show the “T-BYRD” cheering section on the telly? What a crack up.”

I heard the commentators mention that Berdych had a cheering section of about 12 people but the camera didn’t focus on them, so I couldn’t see who they were talking about and what they looked like.
_________________
jane: “I agreed with the commentators to which I was listening; they thought that Rafa could’ve done more on some of Berdych’s second serves. He was making some errors off the return that he wouldn’t when at his peak.”

Yes and no, because it would have meant running to get to some of Berdych’s return shots and Nadal’s not doing that kind of running down every shot anymore from what I’ve observed. Also, he’s standing very far back to return and to me it’s an indication that he’s still unsure about his return placement and wants to avoid over-hitting and/or hitting out of the court. When he initially returned to the tour he was constantly asking his box if the shot was in, and that’s an indication that he’s somewhat unsure of some of his returns and shot placement. Contrast that to his pre-injury play whereby he seemed to have every square inch of the court memorized in his mind, and there’s the big difference in his return game. To me that’s rust which in time will go away, but for now Nadal is compensating and I must say it appears that he’s adapting very well indeed.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:08 am

Von said, “…but then again don’t you think that maybe their opponents/competition is not tough enough thus allowing them to be able to toy with them and still win?”.

I do agree with you that the competition may not be tough enough. What is even more obvious is that the competition is not mentally tough enough to pull a win even when it seems so within reach. How often have we seen the underdog play incredibly well yet we still feel that towards the end, he will wilt (I do not like the word choke) and the higher ranked players is still able to eke out a win? If the competition can provide them with a solid and consistent game, all the games will be exciting. But as often happens, the early rounds are quite predictable. So, I guess you are correct that the earlier rounds are not as exciting. But I would fault the mediocre game to the lesser ranked player for the inability to finish off a higher ranked guy not playing all out.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:17 am

I really want to see Rafa play Roger Federer. I love Nadal vs. Federer matches!

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:14 am

Its important for these guys to develop some momentum going into US Open.

Doubly important to make sure Murray does not win another masters going in as his confidence will be sky high.

However the ATP and WTA may need to address the ranking system

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:42 am

Rafa was firing on all cylinders, he was awesome. I am hoping for a Rafa/Roger final

VAMOS RAFA!

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:07 am

Now that the Roddick’s, Berydch’s, Daveydanko’s,etc… , The also ran, has been crowd, have been ousted we can move on with the real tennis players – Thank God!! , The four best in the man’s game are playing each other. What a treat!

I predict Murray over Federer in 3

And

Djokovic over Nadal in 3

And

Djokovic over Murray in tomorrow’s final in 3 tight sets.

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:45 am

The next great tennis player is Nadal. Federer will slowly give way to him and Nadal should be on his way. He has learned a big lesson with his knees and will treat that more carefully and seriously from now on. Murray would probably be his biggest obstacle. I have doubts that the greatness I expected from Djokovic when he first came out would come to fruition. Murray himself is a very good candidate to be among the great tennis players.

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:55 am

Polo – I hope you are right re: Rafa and his knees. He is my fave for Cincy (Djoko 2nd) & USO (Murray 2nd). He slide a few times vs Tomas & I cringed for those knees.

Vamos Rafa ahora!

August 22nd, 2009 at 9:25 am

Von/Jane:

I thought Nadal looked better last night also. His own serving was a big improvement since his return, And Jane – I thought Nadals returning was actually pretty good. He get a lot of the Berdych First Serves back in play with the deep slice return. Because of that Berdych was only allowed 3 Aces, which is a pittance for a guy who serves as big as he does. The errors Nadal made on the 2nd Serve was trying to run around the backhand to hit an uber-topspin forehand and that’s the one that often backfired on him. Had he just hit through on the backhand he’d have been better off. But he still did more than enough on the Berdych First Serve. That’s why commentators like the ESPN Group are just laughable. For them to say Nadal wasn’t doing enough on the Berdych 2nd Serve yet Nadal was the one who managed to break twice and not face a break point of his own all night tells you how eternally underestimating of Nadal these guys are. Cahill shouldn’t even be commenting on Nadal matches because he has vested interests elsewhere: Federer contacted him about coaching and he’s invested in Verdasco through Adidas. Cahill, Pmac, Drysdale, etc., all keep their Nadal commentary the same: he shouldn’t be winning as much as he does and his opponents are too stupid to figure out what the commentators “know” is the way to beat him.

As for today – my friend said last night that if Murray loses today and Nadal wins this event he will resume his #2 Ranking on Monday – which changes the picture entirely for the US Open Draw. So I’ll say Federer pulls out all the stops and beats Murray today. As for Djokovic and Nadal tonight: the speed of this court decisively favors Djokovic, and he’ll be fully ready to win one after their last match: the drama packed SF in Madrid. That said, if Nadal can take it up one notch more, with his 14-4 H2H against Novak, the best I can say is that this one would be a pick ’em.

August 22nd, 2009 at 9:27 am

Polo,

Nadal will not have a long career. Knee problems just don’t go away. They slowly get worse over time. Nadal’s game is based on extreme movement and great defense.

Nadal is already a great player. What do you mean, the next great player? He’s won 4 French, A Wimbledon, and an Ozzie Open. Won the Olympics. Been ranked #1. What more do you want?

The question is his knees. IMO, they will hamper him late into his mid and late 20s. No way you will see Nadal running down balls at the French Open at 28 like the Elegant moving Federer does. He just puts too much pressure on them changing directions and running down every ball. It takes its’ toll even for an athlete as well conditioned as Nadal is.

Rafael better do all the winning he can do, quickly – why he still can.

August 22nd, 2009 at 9:31 am

The knee “problem” Nadal has, tendinitis, is not an injury. It’s a condition. And more players have it and deal with it than we hear about. Since tendinitis is an inflammation, and it’s caused by continuous exertion, the only RX for anyone who has it is rest. That’s it. And it works when you rest it. Venus was diagnosed with it in both of her wrists in 2004, so she stayed off the tour for many months. She’s won a couple of Majors and a Year End Championship since then.

No ones career ended because of tendinitis. But expect some new management of his scheduling, which will be enough to keep his inflammation to a minimum. The one thing that will keep Nadal in the thick of events is his Forehand. On clay (and to an only slightly lesser extent on grass) it’s still the biggest weapon on the tour, period. On hard courts, it’s still enough of a shot to do serious damage – especially if it’s a slow hard court like Australia or Indian Wells. In fact it was Murray himself who called Nadal’s Forehand the best in the game today in a slight edge over Federer for one reason: day in and day out, Nadal makes fewer errors off that side than Federer does. So as long as Nadal can keep cranking the Forehand, there will be a lot of events (especially on clay) still at his mercy for a while to come yet.

August 22nd, 2009 at 10:04 am

That was funny about tenisbebe and the serbian flag contingent. We saw her across the court sitting next to them.
Von, I would never jinx Roddick. In fact I wished him good luck. He was so nice. I know you are kidding. Dan Martin has seen my photo of the coin toss on my facebook.
Getting ready to leave the hotel to watch Nestor and Z. Looks like rain this morning and it’s supposed to be cool today. I can wear long pants. Yeah!

August 22nd, 2009 at 10:17 am

Tenisbebe,

On Tuesday I came back over to see you again, but the match ended early on an injury. I spent most of my remaining time on the Grand Stand due to the proximity I could get to watch the matches. I am glad you and Sar have been at the event. It is a lot of fun.

These semifinals are going to be interesting. I remember Feinstein’s book talking about how Andres Gomez did not want to play his best when he lost to Muster in Rome or Monte Carlo because he was sure they’d meet again in Paris. Some of thet might be crossing each of their minds, but mostly pride is part of this and each would love to win against such a strong field. The race for #1 could become a lot more or less interesting. If Nadal or Murray win Cincy it gets closer, but if Federer wins Cincy he puts himself in a great spot to end the year at #1. Novak could pull a Federer – win here, win USO and then look at the Paris Indoor as a chance to make up even more ground.

August 22nd, 2009 at 10:37 am

Voicemale1:

“The errors Nadal made on the 2nd Serve was trying to run around the backhand to hit an uber-topspin forehand and that’s the one that often backfired on him. Had he just hit through on the backhand he’d have been better off. But he still did more than enough on the Berdych First Serve. That’s why commentators like the ESPN Group are just laughable. For them to say Nadal wasn’t doing enough on the Berdych 2nd Serve yet Nadal was the one who managed to break twice and not face a break point of his own all night tells you how eternally underestimating of Nadal these guys are. Cahill shouldn’t even be commenting on Nadal matches because he has vested interests elsewhere: Federer contacted him about coaching and he’s invested in Verdasco through Adidas. Cahill, Mmac, Drysdale, etc., all keep their Nadal commentary the same: he shouldn’t be winning as much as he does and his opponents are too stupid to figure out what the commentators “know” is the way to beat him. ”

If you read my comments you’ll notice I disagreed with the commentator jane mentioned in her post with respect to Nadal not doing enough with Berdych’s second serves; he must have been watched a different match from the one I saw. I agree with you that those errors he made were due to running around the backhand to hit an FH. He has a tendency to do that most of the time and it’s one of the mistakes he often makes, but it’s force of habit and they all have one weakness or the other that their opponent can exploit IMO. However, these perceived weaknesses are not the end of the world as none of the players has a perfect MO. (Murray’s weakness is the cross-court FH.) I also thought Nadal didnt get to a few of those second serves due to the proximity of where the shot was hit and would have had to stress his knees getting to them, which to me was not worth it to do so, and it was not an earth shattering problem for him because he finally got to break Berdych and win the match.

In sum, I feel these commentators want to see text-book perfection (even though most of them haven’t been the epitome of ‘awesome’ players in their time) and it’s not going to happen because the players are humans and play by instinct rather than by what’s written in a text-book, hence the contrasting styles, etc. Peple do what works for thenm and that with which they aare more comfortable, after all, it’s not like they are performing heart surgery is it?

“Cahill shouldn’t even be commenting on Nadal matches because he has vested interests elsewhere: Federer contacted him about coaching and he’s invested in Verdasco through Adidas.

I don’t know if you read many of my posts here when I’m watching a live match and Cahill is commentating especially when Verdasco is playing, because I have to mute the guy and then eventually I become so disgusted with the whole ESPN fan-boys crew that I walk away from my TV and sit by my computer to watch live streaming. I had to do that when Roddick played Verdasco last week — I wanted to gag/strangle Cahill in the worst way during that match. LOL. It’s nauseating how they drone on and on and on. I think Cahill is either: (1) Just in love with his voice and likes to hear himself talking ad infinitum (garbage); and (2) he feels he’s the most knowledgeable of the bunch and has to flaunt that wisdom non-stop in front of them. Cahill becomes fixated on Verdasco and talks non-stop on Verdasco’s game improvements and his routine, et al. He is the perfect example of where a little knowledge can most times be a bad thing. I like Drysdale, PMac and Gilbert, but when they talk about some players I also have to mute them. It’s obvious where their loyalties lie and it’s a shame really, because commentators and the media should not be biased but report the news as it happens and as close to the truth as possible without the injection of personal bias. However, very few can do that due to their loyalties to some players and they probably don’t realize how their bias affects their effectiveness as commentators and writers.

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:31 pm

Sar: Yes, I was only kidding around with you with respect to jinxing Roddick. Enjoy the matches today.

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:32 pm

Gosh, it’s so awful to read these gloom and doom predictions and long term forecasts on Nadal’s knees, which seem to be stated as fact. The negativity is nauseating, even to me a non-Nadal fan. Why is it that some people feel they have the monopoly with respect to their astral walking and crystal balls? sheesh. Or is it they just like to hear themselves talking drivel?

Nadal is going to be just fine and his career even if shortened, I’m sure, won’t be the end of the world for him. Why not wish the guy all the best instead of predicting he won’t have a long career. If the crystal-ballers are so sure of their predictions as fact, then puhlease, give me the winning numbers for tonight’s lottery drawing. And if you can’t, then that’s an indication of how lousy your predictions are and don’t even think of giving up your jobs to pursue a career in fortune telling or else you’ll starve. sheesh.

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:45 pm

Just to clarify, I wasn’t listening to the aforementioned ESPN commentators (Cahill, Fowler, Gilbert, Drysdale, et al) for the Nadal match, although I agree that they can be nauseatingly biased! I was watching a stream on the link Von posted earlier; commentators were Sam Gore and … maybe Jimmy Airas? He had an Australian accent I think. They both thought Nadal was increasing in form and confidence and were particularly impressed with his serving. In general they spoke highly of his play, I thought.

August 22nd, 2009 at 1:57 pm

No, it mustn’t’ve been Airas because he is American and so likely wouldn’t have the accent. Anyhow … it wasn’t the usual suspects.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:00 pm

I’d like to ask a question as to what some posters consider to to be ‘real’ tennis? Is tennis only real when the top 4 are playing? if so, then I suppose the ATP tour should be shrunk to only FOUR (4) players. And, how could players who are presently on the tour, and are in the top 50 players be termed to be ‘has beens’ and also’? I thought a ‘has been’ is one who’s no longer in a competing position and is all washed up, and that does not at all apply to any of the top 50 players, considering many of them have won slams early in their careers, and are former top 10 players.

And, what’s an ‘also ran’? In horse races is one who’s been in the race but didn’t win the title. So, if we’re to apply this ‘also ran’ analogy to today’s matches of the ‘fab’ four, whoever loses in the SF today and the finals tomorow, will be an ‘also ran’. LOL. LOL.

Per Goethe: “Our senses don’t deceive us: our judgment does.”

And, I’ll add: Oh what a tangled web we weave just for thee sake of spouting at random. LOL.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:09 pm

Here we go….Let’s hope Andy and Fed make it a great match!!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:12 pm

Veno: How ya doin’ hon, glad to see you around? Do yolu want me to hold your hand today? I guess that friend kept you quite busy yesterday and night? LOL.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:14 pm

Hi Von, I’m ok and it was fun last night.

I don’t get as nervous as you, Jane or Margot when your fave is playing lol but thanks for offering a hand….

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:19 pm

Murray’s cross-court FH is his weakness and Federer is already exploiting it by going down the line after setting up Murray for the cross-court return.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:20 pm

Fed looks ready….Andy has to be more aggressive…will be a great 3 setter I think…

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:22 pm

Fed came to play; zipping a couples winners already. Murray seems a little tight/tense early on. Neither are getting their first serves in and Murray lost a break point already. Hmmm… early viewing would suggest Fed, but Murray has lost the first set a number of times against Fed and yet still won the match.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:22 pm

both serving poorly

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:25 pm

Veno: I get a bit tense, but believe me not very nervous at all. Don’t believe everything you read when I say my hands are cold and I can’t watch, etc., I only do that to kid around with you, but I’ve subsequently realized that I should stop that because some take me seriously. Also, I’m not one for feeling disappointed and heart-broken for days if my fave loses. I feel disappointed for a few hours (except for Roddick’s Wimby loss which lasted a couple of days), but generally, I’m able to get over it quickly.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:25 pm

Seems strange not to see Mirka there; she’s been at pretty much all of his matches for so long.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:26 pm

Kinda strange with Andy, he’s one of the best players in deciding sets in best of 3, but in best of 5 his 4th and 5th set aren’t nearly as good…

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:27 pm

I think they are both nervous and don’t really know what to expect from the other considering how poorly they’ve played in their matches leading up to the SF.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:28 pm

I know Von lol…

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:28 pm

Bye-bye first set. Murray is not on any kind of form today. Ugh.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:29 pm

Abdy woke up :) some great points…

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:31 pm

On the stream I’m watching, there’s a chat room on the side and someone has written ‘by, bye Murray’, due to him being one break down, which is fatalism personified. LOL. It’s unbelievable, how these fortune tellers are so [un]gifted.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:32 pm

Well that was better from Murray; he dug in a little at least, but I still don’t see him winning this first set.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:32 pm

Veno: What do you mean “I know Von” about what?

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:33 pm

spoke too soon Jane, lol…already started cleaning in regard of Novak having to play his nemesis again tonight?

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:33 pm

jane: Murray’s just a break down and could win two games in a row to get back on serve — he could still pull out the set.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:34 pm

@Von: about: “I get a bit tense, but believe me not very nervous at all. Don’t believe everything you read when I say my hands are cold and I can’t watch, etc., I only do that to kid around with you, but I’ve subsequently realized that I should stop that because some take me seriously. Also, I’m not one for feeling disappointed and heart-broken for days if my fave loses. I feel disappointed for a few hours (except for Roddick’s Wimby loss which lasted a couple of days), but generally, I’m able to get over it quickly.”

Keep up hon… :)

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:35 pm

they are both serving horribly!!! nerves?

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:37 pm

He could still win the first set, but to me he probably won’t; I am not being fatalistic but just basing it on what I’ve seen of his play thus far.

However, as I mentioned above, even if Murray loses the first set, the match is far from over. He often loses the first against Fed and still wins the match. And his play seems to be picking up somewhat now.

Veno – no. I like both Nadal and Djoko and so no matter who wins that match, I’ll be quite content. Though as I mentioned yesterday, I do think a win for Djoko would be uber good for his confidence.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:38 pm

Murray has too many UEs and he keeps piling them up. I know Andy usually has a walk-about set and I’m hoping it will be this one.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:38 pm

bad reffeing there…ouch!!! on set point

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:39 pm

some nice air-time for Fed there…wow he hung there a long time!!!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:40 pm

jane: “Veno – no. I like both Nadal and Djoko and so no matter who wins that match, I’ll be quite content. Though as I mentioned yesterday, I do think a win for Djoko would be uber good for his confidence.”

Come on, you know you like Djoko more than any of the other players, and I’m sure that deep down in your heart you want him to win, and beleive me, that’s entirely normal.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:41 pm

36 and 42% for Fed and Andy 1st serves made respectively….very poor…..

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:42 pm

wow!!!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:44 pm

Veno: I don’t like Lahyani at all, and feel he’s an inept umpire, even tholugh some think otherwise. His head is always in the clouds and he almost always never seem to see the bad calls and over-rules them. His ineptness caused Roddick to lose Bercy last year over some bad line calls. whenever I see lahyani at one of my fave’s matches, I become nervous because he just sits there like a bump on a log star gazing.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:45 pm

Fed wants to set a record straight…Come on Andy get into it…would like to see that.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:45 pm

Koenig is sounding like Cahill in this match. LOL.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:46 pm

Von, as I said to Veno, I’ll be “content” if either Rafa or Djoko win; I was answering his question about my getting nervous – hence the word “content” either way. And honestly, I’d like to see Rafa reassert himself; I’d even like to see him win the USO and get a career slam in the same year as Fed. That’d be quite a story for tennis. That said, I’ll reiterate: I know a win for Novak would be a huge boost for his confidence, so yeah I’d love to see him win, and yeah, even more than Rafa in that sense. However, I don’t think he will. Rafa’s just playing better imo, based on the matches I’ve seen this far.

Here I am cheering for Murray. The commentators just called Fed “ever lucky”; I’ll bet MMT is cringing if he’s listening. :) Today, Fed is just playing better so far. But if Murray ups his game it could get more competitive.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:50 pm

Von says: “he just sits there like a bump on a log star gazing.” Hahahaha, so true!!!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:51 pm

Well Cahill is doing his usual obsessing on ESPN, so it’s back to live streaming for me.

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:56 pm

wow, medal ceremony with grand daughter of Jesse Owens and his main German rival at that time…

August 22nd, 2009 at 2:58 pm

jane; “The commentators just called Fed “ever lucky”; I’ll bet MMT is cringing if he’s listening. :)”

Yeah, that’s one of his huge pet peeves and a verboten word, similar to ‘easy’ draw, can’t talk abut that either. However, he’s not the only one, as quite a few posters join him in those areas. LOL.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:00 pm

Fed’s winning his service games quite easily; I don’t think that bodes too well for Murray, who’s struggling more. I am beginning to think it’ll be Fed-Nadal final but who knows? Murray could come back into it. It was about this time in the Benneteau match that he picked it up.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:06 pm

The bad thing about three sets, when the first set is lost and the loser serves second in next set, is the humoungous pressure they face to constantly hold serve. It gives the other player a huge, and I mean huge, psychological advantage. Roddick faced that in that 5th set at Wimby, and I can’t begin to fathom how awful that must have been for him. OUCH.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:07 pm

jane, yes Murray could come back as he did v. benneteau, but Federer is not Benneteau, so therein lies the problem.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:09 pm

“But Federer is not Benneteau, so therein lies the problem.”

LOL Von – problem indeed. And I think Fed is out to prove himself against Murray today. He’s come out with a plan today it seems.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:12 pm

What’s wrong with Murray now?

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:15 pm

In the chat room at the side of the stream one of the posters wrote: murray is an actor and he knows Fed gets angry at MTOS. LOL.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:16 pm

hey Von, serving second like Andy did at wimby being harder is an interesting point and even theorem, however not backed up by fact as it’s about 50-50 in total Slams 5-setters as measured whether the first server won that decider or the second server…..How about that… :)

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:17 pm

Can Lahyani just once, I mean just once, get a call right? Gosh, what’s this man doing that he couldn’t see that ball was in. To reiterate, he’s a star gazing bump on a log.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:19 pm

Veno: I’m talking about the psychological aspect of the constant pressure that one miss and the match is over for the person serving second in a tiebreak.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:21 pm

Murray needs to calm down and stop getting so angry with himself when he misses a return. I hope he can hold serve and take it to a tiebreak.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:22 pm

Me too Von :)
however the facts don’t back up that it is harder psychologically….that’s whta’s interesting…it’s a theory….

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:23 pm

Okay, I want someone to tell me what Fed’s doing differently with his serve; Murray can’t return anything today and he’s one of the top returners full-stop. Is Murray way off or has Fed changed something up. It seems like he’s going for placement today rather than blasting aces. And it’s working.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:23 pm

jane: Murray’s footwork stinks today, and that’s the sum total of what’s wrong. He’s incredibly listless and Federer has picked up on that and is moving him around, and when that happens Murray can’t seem to move fast enough and set up to return the shots.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:33 pm

Veno: I’m talking about what goes on in the mind when someone is faced with that kin d of pressure. Believe me I know what I’m talking about because I have a piece of paper that says I do, and it’s not a marriage licence. ha ha.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:35 pm

Von, yeah, Murray’s been yelling at himself to “move”. But still his returning was off today.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:37 pm

Fed was the better player today; let’s see if it’ll be another Fed-Nadal finally. It’s seeming likely.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:40 pm

margot, Murray’s saving himself for the USO, maybe? Oh well, better luck next time. Sorry it wasn’t his day today, but he did win last week and is number 2 still unless Rafa takes the title here.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:42 pm

Veno: Congrats to you on your guy’s win! Once again, Murray’s second serve has proven to be his Achilles heel!

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:42 pm

Piece or paper or not Von(I don’t doubt your credentials) I’m an econometrist, specialized in scientific research in inference modelling and your hypothesis is merely a mental paradigm in stead of proven theory is all I say….

That’s why it’s an interesting topic, cause it could be true or it could be false :)

Read the works of Popper on this….very interesting read….

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:45 pm

margot: So sorry, but let’s face it, Andy can’t win them all, and he’ll do better at the USO.

I wonder who’ll win the USO points series? Probably Murray; DelPotro will be second, and Roddick probably third.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:45 pm

if murray cannot beat roger in best of 3, he has little chance in 5-setter match.
well done, roger. at 28, you are still the champion and this consolidates his morale going into the us open. congratulations !

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:45 pm

Thanks Von. Best match I have seen Fed play since Wimby…

And Andy looked half a step slow today. Maybe a little fatigued. He’s still one of my favourites for the USO….as is Fed.

And tonight we’ll see if Rafa is really up there….No disrespect to T-byrd, but Novak is the second (after JMDP) really top-opp he faces since he’s back. I’ll pick Novak to win in 3. And Jane, imho better pray Novak wins tonight or he will lose even more confidence(not being able to beat a less than 100% Rafa)

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:48 pm

Veno: You’re an economist? Great! My son at the ripe old age of 24 is an economist and is six (6) credits away from his CPA degree and certification. He’s also going to work toward a Ph.D, in what I don’t know as he’s undecided at the moment, but the kid just keeps on stacking up those degrees and wanting more.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:49 pm

A semi at Cincy or Canada is what? 45 points so the Series is over:
1) Murray….145 pts
2) JMDP……140 pts
3) Querry….130 pts

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:51 pm

Von – yeah, Murray will do better – he won’t lose to Roger until the final.

Unless Roger Federer is greater than I think he is, and I hold him on a real high plateau, he knows his chances for a genuine Grand Slam (all in a calendar year) are getting slimmer with every passing year.

He already has the third best thing – a career slam. But if he wins the US Open for a record 6th year he will then have the chance – by winning the 2010 Australian Open – to hold all four titles at once.

That has gotta be some motivation, n’est-cs pas?

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:53 pm

I don’t want to take anything away from Fed’s win, but Murray did not look his usual self today. That said, I credit Federer for sensing this and going for the jugular by imposing his game on Murray and exploiting the weaknesses he saw in Murray’s movement and game that were clearly glaring IMO.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:53 pm

Good to hear Von, have yourself a little professor in the making there lol.

I’m an International Econometrist specialized in international Commerce, World Monetary Policy, Strategic Game Theory in International Banking and Macro Economist(How boring can one be?)

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:54 pm

Von “I wonder who’ll win the USO points series? ” I think Querrey is pretty high up on that list as well.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:56 pm

Gordo:

Hello, and long time no see. Yes, I agree with you that the only motivation now for Federer would be to win the calendar GS and that should be his goal going forth. I’ve just got to ask a question though, how could 2010 be featured in the calendar GS considering it’s a new year? I thought a calendar year begins from January through December of the same year, which means Federer lost in January of ’09 and his calendar GS is now a null and void scenario. Please enlighten me.

August 22nd, 2009 at 3:59 pm

Gordo, hate to burst your bubble, but as a Fed fan I can tell ya…

No way Fed is even thinking about a Calender Slam anymore….If he wins the USO he’ll start thinking about a Roger Slam but that will be it….

And don’t count Murray out for the USO.
He’s growing little by little on me(I know Margot, it’s amazing!!!) but I like his attitude where he utterly believes he’s the better player on court whomever he’s playing….I respect that.

And although Fed and Andy don’t warm up to each other…I kinda like that…They do respect each other and I like to see some banter going on sometimes….It’s the media and deranged Fed and A.Murray fans who exacerbate the situation…

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:01 pm

thanx von and jane, andy looked very out of sorts today, as you said not moving well and his serve, ouch! Perhaps hes played too much tennis too soon? Did not look good against Benneteau either.
Ho, hum!

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:01 pm

Veno says ” better pray Novak wins tonight or he will lose even more confidence”

Are you trying to make me nervous guy?! Phew. LOL. Seriously, I am not too worried about Novak in the grand scheme of things; if it doesn’t happen for him this year, maybe he’ll come back more fired up next year. He’s a good player, and if he wants to be great, and win another slam, he simply has to step it up. If he doesn’t, well, more power to Rafa right? Djoko just hasn’t handled the pressure well since he won his first slam and maybe that’s down to the added pressure he felt from parents/country, or maybe it’s down to his personality. Whatever it is, it’s not really my problem. I’ll enjoy the tennis either way. As frustrated as I often got watching Safin play, I always enjoyed it. And look at the stretch between his two slams.

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:02 pm

Jane:

Veno Says:

A semi at Cincy or Canada is what? 45 points so the Series is over:
1) Murray….145 pts
2) JMDP……140 pts
3) Querry….130 pts

Posted August 22nd, 2009 at 3:51 pm

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:02 pm

Lol Von, I took that one from ya addressing Gordo LOOOOOOOOOOL

So thinking alike many times….

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:04 pm

Veno:

“I’m an International Econometrist specialized in international Commerce, World Monetary Policy, Strategic Game Theory in International Banking and Macro Economist(How boring can one be?)”

Fantabulous! Not boring at all, and no wonder yur mind can’t rurn off, because of the cash register going off at all turns — cuuching. LOL. Please tell me where I can invest the couple dollars I have. Does your country still deal in guilders or it’s strictly Euro pounds/dollars nowadys?
__________________
jane: Sam has points from the 250 series and the Ms award more points. Perhaps if he had gone deeper at Cincy he would have been in the running.

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:07 pm

Jane, regarding Novak…I totally get your point, however as a tennis fan I like to see Novak throw the monkey off his back rather sooner than later. “You never know when it’s the last time you’ll have the opportunity to win a tourney let alone a Slam.” It is very fleeting in the world of top tennis and the longer it takes him, the mentally harder it will become….I for one would like to see him shrug it all and start to free flow again!

I liked his determined eyes and body language after his win yesterday!!! Let’s hope he’ll use that fire and play great against Rafa.

And to be honest: If Novak beats Rafa it will be a huge boost for him and Rafa won’t be affected much, but the other way around….aiaiai…

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:08 pm

Veno, I saw your points post to Von after I had responded to her. I have a bad habit of reading the thread halfway, commenting, and then going back up to read the rest, only to find my earlier comment had been covered, oh well.

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:10 pm

ok, 1 more time for Von and Jane:

Veno Says:

Jane:

Veno Says:

A semi at Cincy or Canada is what? 45 points so the Series is over:
1) Murray….145 pts
2) JMDP……140 pts
3) Querry….130 pts

Posted August 22nd, 2009 at 3:51 pm

Posted August 22nd, 2009 at 4:02 pm

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:10 pm

Ningun problema Jane…
I’m just messing a little and it takes 5 seconds to copy paste it into a refreshed post :)

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:11 pm

Veno, true – sooner is better than later for Djoko, and you definitely have a point here: “And to be honest: If Novak beats Rafa it will be a huge boost for him and Rafa won’t be affected much, but the other way around….aiaiai…”

Ay carumba! He could really sink down into oblivion hey?

And yet, all one can do is hope for a good match, and that’s it. It’s in their hands tonight and I am not going to freak out about it. Besides, it’s already pretty darn clean around here. LOL.

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:13 pm

Veno: Not that it really matters now, but how many points did Roddick acquire?

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:17 pm

Von Says: “Please tell me where I can invest the couple dollars I have. Does your country still deal in guilders or it’s strictly Euro pounds/dollars nowadys?”

Euros mainly, but Dollars and Pounds are just as good.

I’ll put you up with a Euro-Dollar specified fund where you can deposit your dollars and I’ll invest them through mutual funding in strong real estate businesses in the Netherlands.(A lot of people, 17 million, on a piece of land 1/300th of that of the US’s surface area…let your son do the math)

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:17 pm

Roddick got 90 pts: 45 from F in Washington and 45 from SF in Montreal and 0 in Cincy

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:18 pm

If Rafa beats Novak and Roger he will be seeded 2 at the USO!!!!!!!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:19 pm

I say this all of the time, and once more won’t hurt, but why in blazes can’t they play the second SF following on the heels of the first SF, instead of having them 4 hours apart? Forget TV coverage, jsut play. And again, I reiterate, the winner of the first SF has 5 more hours to recover as opposed to the winner of the second SF, which to me means, huge advantage physically. Wrong, wrong, wrong I say and I protest vehemently.

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:21 pm

Von – agreed!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:23 pm

Veno: “If Rafa beats Novak and Roger he will be seeded 2 at the USO!!!!!!!!”

I’d say Fed’s thinking, puhlease let this happen because I don’t want to see him in the SFs. LOL.

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:24 pm

I second that Von!

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:24 pm

Eh….make that: I “third” that! Von :)

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:25 pm

Veno: Since Gordo didn’t answer, am I not correct in saying that Fed cannot obtain the calendar GS this year even if he wins the USO? Please advise.

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:31 pm

Andy Murray just lost 680 points, plus he owes us 1000 points for Madrid (dropping off October), all in all it’s 1680 points. If he doesn’t make a good result in USO (it even means that he makes it to the semis)- bye bye second place.

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:32 pm

Ok, the number freak again…bare with me:

Ranking Points as of now:

1) Fed: 11640(F)/12040(W)
2) Murray: 9610
3) Rafa: 9025(SF)/9265(F)/9665(W)
4) Novak: 7510(SF)/7750(F)/8150(W)*

* not really in the race for places 1-3 yet, especially bar the 900 and 1300 pts he has to defend from USO and Masters Cup ’08.

I’m glad Fed won, but excitement wise it would have been best if Murray would have been F and Rafa would be the W….Places 1-3 could have been mixed up at the USO then :)

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:35 pm

Of course you were correct, the Calender Slam was off when he lost the Ozzie Open final to Rafa.

He is half way to a Roger Slam(Remember the Serena Slam RG ’02-Ozzie Open ’03 is the same…) which means if he wins USO ’09 and Ozzie Open ’10 he’ll hold all 4 Slams, but that doesn’t count as a Calender Slam(Like Laver in ’62 as amateur and ’69 in the Open era)

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:39 pm

And Duro:

Andy Murray didn’t lose 640(not 680, a SF in 1000 Masters Series is 360 pts) points because Cincy ’08 pts have been deducted Aug. 10

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:40 pm

Veno: Thanks for the clarification. I thought I was correct from just my elementary school training, but I was wondering if it was something that was done differently for tennis. Sorry, but I’m a novice with respect to the tennis numbers scenario because I don’t care to fight with numbers. I’d rather write a motion than do a calculus problem. LOL.

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:42 pm

Some interesting info regarding the Ozzie Open:
the Australian Open was held in January every year, until 1977.In this year the tournament was shifted to December, which is the reason for two Australian Opens being held in 1977. In 1987, the tournament was shifted back to January, the reason for no tournament being played in 1986.
(think of Borg trying 3 times(’78-’80) for the Calender Slam coming short at the third Slam, the USO)

August 22nd, 2009 at 4:56 pm

Veno, we didn’t introduce, so I would prefer not to be called a freak of any kind from you, ok?
About 640 or 680 points, you’re right, my mistake, but it doesn’t change much, 40 points more or less won’t make a big difference. Of course he lost the points. When you don’t support someone’s game every loss means no opportunity to gain new ones(points, of course), so virtually he lost those. I don’t like Andy Murray!!! Don’t spoil my joy! I would bite you now for being right!

August 22nd, 2009 at 5:10 pm

Duro says:

“Veno, we didn’t introduce, so I would prefer not to be called a freak of any kind from you, ok?”

Nice to meet your acquaintance Duro, but please do me a favour and read back my posts :)

You’ll come to the conclussion that I did not call you a freak, my friend. Not my style!

I’m guessing you’re referring to my posts @4:35 pm
Alas, I was referring to myself as the number freak as I am exactly that and I regularly post numbers that would drive every sane person mad(look at Vonnie)

August 22nd, 2009 at 5:20 pm

And Duro, if I follow your reasoning the correct amount Murray “lost” in losing to Fed is 240 pts :)
Don’t jump ahead there. Reaching the final would have gained him an additional 240 pts on top of the 360 he already gained by reaching the SF

August 22nd, 2009 at 5:25 pm

Veno: If you could get hold of my paltry savings account and post some insane numbers on the plus side, you could drive me crazy as much as you like, and I’d be laughing all the way to the bank. And you can bank on that happening. LOL.

August 22nd, 2009 at 5:33 pm

Veno, explanation accepted. If you were here in “old days” (and somehow I have a feeling that you were, under some different nick, of course) you would have known that I despise the actual ranking system, I find it insane! That is why I don’t like to follow these intelligence offensive dates of dropping off the points, rewarding someone’s lousy play from previous year and punishing someone for being injured or repeating the success from the year before.

August 22nd, 2009 at 5:33 pm

Thanks Duro, but I haven’t been around since the “old days” as you poetically put it :) and I haven’t posted under any other “alias nomen” than “Veno”

If I get it correct, you are in favour of a Ranking System as in “the Race”?
As it has its advantages in regard to fair ranking, one of the biggest disadvantages is that someone convincingly being the best player, ending the Race firmly at number 1, could fall out of the top 50 in the new year….The shifts, certainly in the cases of injuries, would be enormous and skewed…but the Ranking System does pose for an interesting and critical debate…especially when you look at the WTA…

August 22nd, 2009 at 5:41 pm

Veno says, “Reaching the final would have gained him an additional 240 pts on top of the 360 he already gained by reaching the SF”

Okay now I am confused. Murray loses points here right? Since he won the event last year, he has to lose some points.

But the way I see it, it all evens out for Murray, as he got to I think the semis in Canada last year and won Cincy, whereas this year, he won Canada and lost in the semis at Cincy. So he’s even steven, no?

And, he didn’t lose many Olympics points since he lost there in the first round. But he will lose those Madrid points eventually I suppose, and he has quite a lot to defend from now to year’s end.

So definitely, rankings are up in the air. Rafa didn’t even play the YEC last year. So if he can win Cincy, USO, and YEC, plus pick up some points on carpet, he could maybe regain number 1 even?

Interesting to see what’ll happen with the top 8 or so spots in the rankings.

August 22nd, 2009 at 5:45 pm

Veno, you only mentioned one disadvantage! Can you imagine how much can I mention re actual ranking system! There is no comparison! This is the most stupid and unfair system in any sport of all time! I can only lough at it. Look at Nadal’s case. It is a shame for anyone decent tennis admirer! Can you even accept the fact that they take the points off for Olympic games which are to take place every 4 years!? Da!!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 5:51 pm

Hi Jane.

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:00 pm

Duro says:

“Can you even accept the fact that they take the points off for Olympic games which are to take place every 4 years!? Da!!!”

Imo they shouldn’t give points for the Olympic Games at all! Quantifying the Olympics!!!! Insane!
I won’t go into the reason how the Olympics came to be(To speak in Von’s terms…I digress)

Furthermore, I believe you could give ampel disadvantages of the current system, Duro, I just stated the “biggest” disadvantage if a “Race System” would be in place(there are more disadvantages) But you make your point :)

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:01 pm

And Veno, my virtual Murray disliking drop off system would exactly be like you calculated! Very clever you are. We got our friend Jane totally confused, but it’s my fault for virtual counting and your fault of being the numbers freak.

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:06 pm

jane Says:

Veno says, “Reaching the final would have gained him an additional 240 pts on top of the 360 he already gained by reaching the SF”

Okay now I am confused. Murray loses points here right? Since he won the event last year, he has to lose some points.

But the way I see it, it all evens out for Murray, as he got to I think the semis in Canada last year and won Cincy, whereas this year, he won Canada and lost in the semis at Cincy. So he’s even steven, no?

I don’t want to get technical here. but:

This ranking system is a dynamic progressive system, bracketed down in 52 weekly standings(week 1 year x to week 1 year x+1)

Similar as the system used in Golf(although that has a minimum-event demoninator in determining the average point count which determines the player’s position over 104 weeks, constituting 2 years, but I digress again)

There are benefits and set backs from this system as in every other system….I won’t go into the dynamics and the pros and cons, but actually this system is quite good, though hardly flawless…

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:06 pm

*denominator

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:07 pm

Lol Duro, nice one.
Occupational hazard makes me a number’s freak…Sorry Jane!

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:09 pm

Veno, I play roulette! Please don’t tell me you are as crazy too!

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:11 pm

Veno: I’ve got a toothache from the numbers crunching, not a headache. Of all the things that could happen, an exposed nerve on a Saturday, which means I have to wait until Monday to see the dentist, help!!!!!. OY VEY and OY VEY.

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:14 pm

Good to see Federer so positive about Murray after the match(and prior too)

Fed said after the match: “He’s a wonderful player, and he’s had an incredible streak on hardcourts,” Federer said of Murray. “He’s just been very consistent, and it takes a great performance to beat him these days. That’s what I was able to do today. I know it could be different, but right now obviously it helps my confidence. But I have to focus on what’s to come, and this is the final tomorrow. The tournament is not won yet, even though I beat the second best player in the world right now. We’ll see how it goes.”

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:16 pm

Von, I recommend you see my sister, she’s a very good dentist and she’s in the States now!!!!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:18 pm

Von, I am with you – my back hurts from reading these number crunchings.

And Veno – you didn’t even answer my question! :-) … isn’t Murray even steven for the combined Canada-Cincy results this year and last?

Hi Duro!

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:18 pm

Veno Veno, you didn’t recognize old Federer’s nature… He was only praising himself!

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:21 pm

Oh, sorry Jane:

He’s even steven as the results go(although switched them…) but not quite even steven points wise…

Last year he was SF in Toronto, earning him(converted to this year) 450 pts(225 times 2) and won Cincy earning him (converted to this year) 1000 pts(500 times 2) for a total of 1450 points dropped.

He won 1000 pts from winning Montreal and adds another 360 from his SF result in Cincy.

So, in total he is down 90 points from last year :)

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:23 pm

Veno: Where does your sister live? Send an SOS to her and tell her to give me a shout. I’m about to pull my hair out.

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:23 pm

Duro: Why so pessimistic? I’d like to see you stress some positive sides to whatever issue :

Just for you:
“Defeatism is acceptance of defeat without struggle. In everyday use, defeatism has negative connotation and is often linked to treason and pessimism, or even a hopeless situation such as a Catch-22. The term is commonly used in the context of war: a soldier can be a defeatist if he or she refuses to fight because he or she thinks that the fight will be lost for sure or that it is not worth fighting for some other reason. Again in connection with war, the term is used to refer to the view that defeat would be better than victory. The term can also be used in other fields, like politics, sport, psychology and philosophy.”

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:26 pm

My sister lives in the Netherlands but is on holiday touring the good ol’ US of A for 3 weeks now :) Sorry

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:27 pm

Veno thanks for the final crunch, but my goodness, why is it so complicated?!

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:31 pm

Veno, and where exactly I was pessimistic and “defeatistic”. I must have missed something here…

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:33 pm

Veno, there’s a match to be seen in couple of minutes! You owe me an answer…

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:50 pm

Lol Duro: what a testament to “the power of suggestion”

I was just havin’a l’il fun :)

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:58 pm

Veno: Are you ready to see Nadal v. Djokovic? Let’s roll, chop, chop!!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 6:58 pm

It looks like a very overcast and cloudy night, OY.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:00 pm

Jane, keep your brooms crossed!

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:02 pm

Which streaming are you using? Or is it on t.v. over there? Not here, alas. Am trying to find some English commentary if possible.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:03 pm

Duro, LOL – I am going to assume that has something to do with my cleaning habit and no other connotations! :)

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:04 pm

Scottish, where are you.

Veno, why so quiet?

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:06 pm

jane: Try this one for english:

http://www.fromsport.com/video-58881.html

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:08 pm

Jane, no other connotations at all! With you, never.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:10 pm

Von thanks – it’s working.

Okay Duro – ;-) Here’s to a good match!

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:11 pm

Veno, where are you mo cher?

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:11 pm

HERE I AM VONNIE!!!!!!!!

Was watching highlights from today’s WC in Berlin!!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:13 pm

Veno: Can Berlin, you can watch that on repeat. Stay here and chat about the match. Did you see I called you ‘mo cher’? LOL.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:14 pm

These two are going to wear themselves out with their return, return, return.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:16 pm

Lol, actually it’s mon cher :) but I do appreciate it ma cherie!

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:17 pm

Wow, that was a beautiful FH from Nadal.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:17 pm

Now that was good reffing( for you cherie )

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:18 pm

Von, I agree – quick points should be their m.o. tonight so they have energy for tomorrow – and just because it makes more sense anyhow! Especially for Novak.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:18 pm

Darn it, I knew I left out a letter. I’m trying to type fast and watch at the same time, mon cher.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:19 pm

I will say this: everyone has benefitted from the advanced string technology, but none more than Rafa…

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:20 pm

Do you guys read the chats on the side of the tennis, they’re funny? One guy wrote: Federer is waiting to kill Nadal. LOL.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:23 pm

lol, I do…Some are funny, but we are blessed at our blogs if you read some of these sicko’s comments…
One said after Fed beat Murray: “I’m going to kill your twins” Man…What a sick person to say something horrible like that?!

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:26 pm

Rafa looks 99% so far….

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:26 pm

Jane: I like Novak’s tactics so far…He should just take the UE and amazing winners Rafa will get off of this aggressive moving Rafa around tactic! I like it!!!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:27 pm

I never read those chats because if the stream is good I put the match on full screen so they’re blocked out. A lot of them aren’t in English either so I can’t read em. Now I am looking, and someone just wrote “what’s the meaning of goat in tennis” HA HA !! Ain’t that the question of the day.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:29 pm

ok, just for anyone’s info…Count the amount of time taken by them combinedly between playing points and incorporate that in their 4hr 3 min clash in Madrid….Just to ponder on…

Rafa is like JMDP that way, took 30 seconds on more than one occasion between playing points while on serve :)

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:30 pm

your boy looks good Jane and I’m happy to see that…Hope he stays patient and focussed as Nadal won’t let him run away with it without throwing all the appliances he can find in his kitchen and bathroom

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:32 pm

Nadal is too far back and Djoko is capitalizing on that factor big time.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:34 pm

*add: at him(Rafa)

Okay, everyone sitting in the chairs and on the couch lift your legs….Jane’s coming by to vacume the rug…..And please all use coasters…

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:34 pm

Veno: Nadal will try to tire Djoko out in the frst set as much as he possibly can, and then move in for the kill in the second and third sets (if there’s a third ).

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:36 pm

I’ll never count out Rafa until the last ball is struck. LOL. But yeah it’s nice to see Novak playing sharply and whacking those groundies to the lines. He’s fun to watch when he’s playing fast and loose. But Nadal has been known to start slow occasionally, just as Novak has been known to come off the boil, so it’s wait and see.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:36 pm

True Jane, hope Novak can keep his level up. really impressed by his execution and definitive aggressive tactic.
Never count out Rafa to find a way to claw back into the match, but have to say Novak looks good!!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:40 pm

Von: normally I would agree, but Novak is a set to the good already without having to sweat.
And he’s playing impressive against an in-form Nadal. He takes it away from Rafa…Will be tougher in set 2 I suspect….

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:43 pm

Nadal played much better against Berdych. Today, he looks listless and kinda lost.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:44 pm

Veno: Nadal is not in-form, come on. I’m not a Nadal fan, but be fair.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:45 pm

I disagree Von! Novak is no T-Byrd….big difference….

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:45 pm

Nadal is still serving pretty well, though he’s had 2 doubles (he’s at 75% first serves and has won 50% of seconds), but he’s not returning and retrieving like he can/has.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:46 pm

And that last point was a prime example of something Novak can do to Nadal what Tomas can’t

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:47 pm

Ok, then if Djoko is not T-Byrd doesn’t that tell you something about Nadal’s form, and that is he’s not in-form.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:48 pm

Oh please Von…..gimme a break…

He wouldn’t be in this SF if he wasn’t in form.

Getting a little tired everybody is putting it all on Nadal if he loses or wins, much the same way they do regarding Fed.

Novak is just taking it to him and outplaying Rafa and Tomas played into Rafa’s strength….mucho difference

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:53 pm

rafa is not playing badly. djoko is simply outplaying rafa. that was painful for rafa to hold.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:55 pm

Novak is only the second real test for Rafa since his comeback, JMDP in Montreal was the first.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:56 pm

Veno: “Getting a little tired everybody is putting it all on Nadal if he loses or wins, much the same way they do regarding Fed.”

Explain a wee bit more about putting it all on Nadal as they do regarding Fed, I don’t get this. Putting what?

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:57 pm

I think you’re both right Von and Veno; I think Djoko is playing better tonight than he has in his other matches, but I can see that Rafa is serving less well than he did against T-Byrd. His serve percentage has been dropping.

But that last hold may be a sign that Rafa is coming around. Have to wait and see, I guess.

August 22nd, 2009 at 7:57 pm

I mean Von: when Rafa loses to someone, it’s his knees, fatigue(Madrid) lack of matches etc etc.
Everybody used tosay the same when Fed lost….he had an off-day, there was something wrong, he was mentaly not strong…

Even Rafa and his camp are downplaying upfront because of his situation….Boohooo(same with Fed and the mono and the back) Of course it’s also being realistic, but if you can play 7 matches in just over a week, there’s nothing wrong anymore…So just play and go at it.

If Novak wins all the media will downplay his victory because Nadal wasn’t Nadal…
I just don’t jump that band wagon is all

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:01 pm

Isn’t the point simply that it takes TWO players to play a match – one can be slightly “off” while another is “on”, as was evident today in the Fed vs. Murray match, particularly in the first set. Fed came out a blazing; I honestly felt by about game 3 or 4 in that match that Fed would win. In this match, so far, Djok has come out stronger. But I won’t conclude the same i did about the first match because Rafa is so tenacious and if he does begin serving better, then Djoko could be in for a tougher second set. Murray put up a fight in the second set too, but Fed closed him out. Can Djoko do that tonight vs, Nadal? I don’t know.

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:02 pm

Someone in the chat put it very succinctly IMO, that Nadal is maybe not injured anymore but he’s got to be tired and rusty after not having played for so long and also his game is still showing some rust. I agree with that, as it takes time to iron out the kinks and as time passes he’ll also build up stamina and accuracy.

Look, I don’t really care who wins or loses, as I don’t have a vested interest in either player, but I do think we need to view things fairly.

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:03 pm

We’ll see Jane, so far it’s a great match to watch!

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:04 pm

I’m off the topic, and may the best man win.

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:05 pm

Only way to view it fairly is to omit the factors you described my dear friend…

Build stamina? Are you kidding me?
I can go with ya a little on the rust, but not anymore after 7 top level matches and he was only out for 2.5 mths(1 of which no top player plays a tourney) and it wasn’t like he was hospitalized.
I’ve played 2 sports at a national level, and it doesn’t take really long or a lot of matches to get the rust out. I think we’re looking for explanations concerning his play in stead of just observing it.

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:08 pm

As Nadal makes Novak play longer rallies, he’ll work his way into the match. Novak has to try to hold easily to stay in it – aces, first serves, winners, attack. If he gets into the long rallies, as he’s been doing, he’ll stop hitting the lines, as has been shown in the last couple of games. There two know each other well!

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:09 pm

I’m off the topic too! Kiss at Von!!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:09 pm

more Nadal fans in the stadium, but Novak’s are louder…nice balance…

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:12 pm

Some great tennis from both!!! Good to see!!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:15 pm

Novak’s patience and concentration are top class. Looks like he’s been waiting for a long time for another encounter with Rafa after losing the Madrid SF.

Haven’t seen Novak this relaxed and confident on court in a while. He really looks like he’s enjoying himself. Good to see….

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:17 pm

rafa has been having hard time to hold. in the 3rd game djokovic breaks. the match is sort of over.

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:18 pm

jane: “Novak has to try to hold easily to stay in it – aces, first serves, winners, attack.”

Any player will win if they hit aces, first serrves, winners and attack. Isn’t that the recipe for winning a tennis match?

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:19 pm

Veno: Goodnight, I’ll catch you tommorow, gotta go out now.

jane: Congrats, if Djoko wins.

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:23 pm

best drop-shot-er on tour is Andy Murray imo

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:25 pm

“Isn’t that the recipe for winning a tennis match?” – My point was he has to HOLD as he has been losing his serve a lot against other guys. But yeah that’s a recipe for success indeed Von.

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:25 pm

Good night Von….just over a week now…..31-8-09…Game on!!!!!!!!!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:25 pm

See ya later Von – I am waiting until the VERY last, final ball is struck. Don’t you remember the Nalbandian match when he was serving for the match, and Rafa STILL came back and won? LOL. With him you just never know!! Players cannot take their foot off the pedal against him.

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:28 pm

Wow Jane!!!!!!! And a good roar!!!!!!!Great defence from Rafa too!!!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:31 pm

Nice passing shot Novak! Woot – and well played there.

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:32 pm

Wow, Novak is letting it all out now. He had to pass a mental test and did with flying colors…

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:33 pm

1 more hold Jane. I don’t wish for Rafa to lose but I think this is the best for tennis, Rafa’ll be fine and a force at the USO!!! But a win here and a win over Fed tomorrow will get Novak really back in it too!!! We live in good times!!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:36 pm

Well, he still has to hold one more time and the last two service games have been dicey. So we’ll see if Novak can hold his nerve and his serve and finish this match up.

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:36 pm

totally mishit the overhead lol…phewwww Jane :)

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:40 pm

There;s the requisite double he seems to ALWAYS hit lately when serving for a match.

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:41 pm

Congrats Jane!!!

He played very well til the end!!!

A huge confidence boost!!! Good for Novak!!!

I worry not for Rafa, he looks on track to be at his best again soon!!!

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:45 pm

Thanks Veno. Yeah, I think Novak has needed a win over a top guy. We’ll see how he does against your man tomorrow!

I am not worried about Nadal too; like the Terminator, “HE’LL BE BACK!” LOL!

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:50 pm

Lol,

If he plays like tonight against my man tomorrow it’s going to be a very good and close match…I’d say 50-50%

He has had Fed’s number the last 2 times, but Murray did 4 times, so I don’t think that is still in play…

I hope Fed wins, but wouldn’t mind if Novak beats him. He’d deserve it. I hope Novak will be rested enough tomorrow…Play starts at 12:30 pm…insane

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:55 pm

Meanwhile Maria took the first set to 2 off Kleybanova

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:56 pm

Good stuff Veno! I would like a Sharapova vs, Dementieva final here in Canada.

August 22nd, 2009 at 8:58 pm

I’ll continue on the newer thread…

Sharapova seems stronger. But I think Elena will take her in a final…

August 22nd, 2009 at 9:13 pm