Nadal Under Ab Injury Cloud, Clijsters Ousts Venus; Federer, Oudin Today at US Open

“. I have a sneaky suspicion that Roger Federer may get bounced today by Tommy Robredo. I’m not sure how or why, just a feeling”.

Federer HAS found Robredo troublesome, no doubt. At least one extremely tight match I can remember. People always say, well, he’s beaten him 8 times to nothing, just another cakewalk. Why? Something happens 8 times, a different thing happens on the 9th. Surprising, perhaps, hardly outlandish.

Robredo is Mr.Consistency. If Federer is badly up and down, as against Hewitt, Robredo may punish him – he is unlikely to gift Fed with the kind of lapses Hewitt fell into in the latter stages of his match.

Of course, Federer is likely to win. But he’s not a machine, he has his bad days. He can still beat most players on a bad day, depends how bad we’re talking about, and which players. But Robredo is certainly equipped to take advantage of error. It only needs three bad service games, or a bit of luck in the tiebreak.

One thing I can envisage: Fed slaughters Robredo in the first set, takes his foot off the pedal, Robredo carries on exactly the same – and it’s enough to win the second set. Dog fight ensues, Federer struggling to find first set form!

I don’t think it’ll be easy. Those days are over. Fortunately, Federer seems to rather like getting his hands dirty….

September 7th, 2009 at 10:48 am

Nadal’s injuries and his statements over the past few months are more complex than Einstein’s theory of relativity… Before he entered US Open he said he is still recovering.. just before he entered .. i mean a day or two before he played and after his first match he started saying he is now fine and raring to go and he is all there to compete and win.. This stomach/abs issue was already there in Cincy…And now this thing has suddenly surfaced again..

I mean there is never any consistent set of disclosures and its too wavering be his injuries or even attitude.. for one moment he says i want to win a tournament and am all geared for it and then suddenly he goes back to saying i just want to do well (that doesnt necessarily equate to winning coz he said he was very satisfied reaching the semis in Cincy)

When roger had mono or back pain last year.. he kept on telling that I want to win the tounament even when everybody was writing him off… and he still maneged to perform at an extraordinary level and atleast his attitude was always positive..

Nadal even before the french entered in all possible tournaments (despite knowing that his knee is quite susceptible) justofying that his schedule always remains the same every year and then after he lost the french.. he started saying that knee issues limited his movement,..

Wonder what exactly is brewing?

September 7th, 2009 at 10:55 am

Grendel

You talked abt consistency of Robredo.. wat abt his mental strength? Is he as good as hewitt in that dept? and his ability to choke in case he is in the closing stages of the match against the mighty Fed… That point is missing.. one thing i see only Nadal and Murray having that kind of a belief that they can beat Fedex in a Grandslam…(Murray though is yet to beat fedex)

Let us not forget that there are only three people not named Nadal who have beat fedex in a grandslam since 2004 Jan.. Guga, Safin and Djokoic two of which who have already retired or in the process of retirement!!

September 7th, 2009 at 11:01 am

Federer is going out and Nadal will defeat Monfils, Tsonga, Murray, and whoever is in the finals to win the title and go down as the greatest of all times……Sadly though Federer will say that he doesn’t care if he loses because he won the French Open and broke the record at Wimbeldon……But the last two slams he won without having to beat Nadal will always go down as luck of the draw and a gift because Nadal was injured……In the rest of their career Federer will never beat Nadal in a major final again!

September 7th, 2009 at 11:12 am

Fed will win in straights. Maybe four if Robredo is at his best and Roger loses focus like he did against Hewitt.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:27 am

Sean – how have you not posted anything about that 5 match point saving performance [3-6, 7-6(6), 6-0] over Vera Zvonareva by Pennetta and the bizarre meltdown by the Russian – crying during the tie-breaker, ripping at her bandages and removing them a piece at a time after every point until she looked like the mummy’s bride and loudly exclaiming “I hate this crowd” as she stormed off?

Watch out for Pennetta against Serena, imo.

Or maybe I should do what you did in today’s post on 3 of the 4 men’s predictions –

I think Serena is in top form and no one is going to beat her; I pick Pennetta.

Ha ha!

September 7th, 2009 at 11:39 am

If anyone’s got any of Zvoroneva’s fit please let me know, hopefully with profanity included.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:41 am

i would like robin to beat davy. he is delight to watch. davy is a fighter and does not give up. both are hanging in out there. tight 1st set.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:42 am

federer is going out and will say that he does not care about losing because of the summer he has had…..nadal will win the tournament and go down as the superior player to federer…….federer will never beat nadal at a major final again……federer is playing so poorly because nadal is on his mind all of the time and he is terrified……if federer is in the semis and nadal wins his semifinal first federer will tank his match so he does not have to lose to nadal in the finals, but federer will not make it to the semis!

September 7th, 2009 at 11:48 am

Noone beats Tommy Robredo 8 times in a row!

September 7th, 2009 at 11:49 am

1st set goes to my fav. that’s pleasing.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:50 am

k. bondarenko broke 6 times and double-bageled g. dulko in 47 min. what sight ! shame on dulko.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:56 am

another white wash in women’s tennis.. It really sicks.. Dulko lost 6-0 6-0 against Bondarenko in round of 16… really a shame..

Mental cases galore in Women’s tennis.. they should ban women’s tennis for sometime till these russians/pseduo russians sort out their mental problems.!!!

September 7th, 2009 at 11:57 am

Make that no one.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:57 am

Ok dulko is from argentina.. i was refering to zvonareva’s match

September 7th, 2009 at 11:58 am

Gannu said:

“Dulko lost 6-0 6-0 against Bondarenko in round of 16”

Bondarenko has been the other dark horse in this tournament after Oudin. She’s playing great tennis and is showing nerves of steel.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:59 am

i hate local station doing this. stupid news for half an hour. forced to switch to some sloppy bootlegged live-streaming.

September 7th, 2009 at 12:01 pm

Kimo Says:

“Bondarenko has been the other dark horse in this tournament after Oudin. She’s playing great tennis and is showing nerves of steel.””

Well that still doesn’t justify a 47min white wash..I know bondrenko has been playing well… but all these so called dark horses will collapse and shiver when they see Serena on the opposite side of the net… They just dont have the mental fortitude to hold up against Serena..Really sad state of women’s tennis.. Its disgusting…

September 7th, 2009 at 12:03 pm

Gannu Says:

“When roger had mono or back pain last year.. he kept on telling that I want to win the tounament even when everybody was writing him off… and he still maneged to perform at an extraordinary level and atleast his attitude was always positive..”

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

It’s understandable when Nadal starts talking about injuries he deals with that it’s frustrating to watch him win despite them. Makes us all wonder what exactly the problem is. Although, the day he played Ferrer in the US Open 16’s two years ago when he was laying on the court wincing in agony almost unable to get up – you kinda get the idea all wasn’t well. His Uncle pops off to the Spanish press more than he should about Nadal’s injuries – that much is true. And that makes Nadal’s navigation through press conferences even more torturous. It’s smart of him now to just adopt the Venus Williams position of “I don’t talk about my injuries”. She never does, and it’s smart of her. He’s wise to adopt the same policy. If you show up to play – don’t talk about how injured you are. And if you lose, don’t claim it’s because you’re injured. Talking about injuries you have before a match is often times (though not always) an attempt to build in an excuse for a loss before you actually lose. To his credit, when Nadal loses, even when struggling with an injury, he most often says the other guy beat him, and that’s that. He makes it a point then not to blame injuries for his losses. Unlike some other players.

This statement you make regarding what Federer says when he has his own issues is misleading at best. When Federer had his mono (which still perplexes me that it never forced him to withdraw from one single event during the whole time he had whatever it was he had), or even his back issues, he would often point to that as the reason for his losses. Just review any of his press conferences. Other than when Nadal shellacked him at the 2008 French Open do I ever remember hearing Federer say anyone just played better than him and that’s why he lost. In March of 2008 in a pre tournament interview prior to Dubai is when he disclosed that it was this mono situation that cost him his Semi Final Match against Djokovic in Australia. But he also said that was behind him by that point, he was fit & ready for battle in Dubai to defend his title. Then he loses his very first match to Murray..and the mono is trotted out by Federer at his press conference as the reason he lost. And he referred to this time and again through the mounting losses in IW, Miamai, MC, Rome, Hamburg and Paris. More than anyone today (excepting Serena), Federer is the most prominent player to use whatever is ailing him as an excuse for his losses.

All this is really understandable. Federer is a Champion beyond almost any recognition in terms of accomplishments. You don’t get to a status like that without a sense of self confidence that’s rare – and inspiring. But self confidence is both durable and fragile. When you win that often, losing becomes much tougher to take mentally. Dominance like his, or Navratilova’s, or Graf’s, or even Sampras – all of them start to bristle when the losses happen. They understand this game is all about projecting that air of invincibility when you get to the rarefied air they breathe – and they fully know you have to have that sense of invincibility in order to stay in that rarified air. Once you doubt your own invincibility, things can unravel in a hurry. Maybe that’s what fundamentally changed for Federer in Austraiia of 2008. After his era of total dominance for 3-plus years, his sense of his own invincibility got shaken up pretty badly by both Tipsarevic and Djokovic Down Under, and the losses started piling up. It took him all the way until now to get it back to what it was.

September 7th, 2009 at 12:07 pm

“They just dont have the mental fortitude to hold up against Serena”

Maybe Serena has an aura of undefeatability like Fed used to and with some opponents still does.

There have been some complete routs on the men’s side too. In fact wasn’t there a grand slam final here, in which Hewitt had two bagels? Luckily, he had that middle set to get some games.

Bondarenko has been playing well and simply smothered and overpowered her opponent. It can happen – even in the ATP.

Anyhow, I don’t think women’s tennis should be “banned”. There have been a number of entertaining matches at this event, imo.

September 7th, 2009 at 12:19 pm

Voicemale1

“Other than when Nadal shellacked him at the 2008 French Open do I ever remember hearing Federer say anyone just played better than him and that’s why he lost. In March of 2008 in a pre tournament interview prior to Dubai is when he disclosed that it was this mono situation that cost him his Semi Final Match against Djokovic in Australia.”

I disagree with this point… I mean Federer indeed has complimented Djokovic when he waon Australian Open and time and agin admitted that Djokovic deserved to win Australian Open.. Infact he even supported Djokovic this year in australia this year when everyone was telling Murray was the favorite.. and read his press conferences.. where he has genuinely appreciated Djokovic for winning that australian open,..
When he disclosed he had mono and time and again referred that he had mono in 2008 he only wanted to point out that he is playing a catch up game for the rest of the year and that was the reaosn for his poor form.. So its a matter of interpretation.. He didnt single out mono for one particular defeayt against Djoko.. The mono was responsible for a dip in his overall level in 2008…

Yes against Andy murray he has been complaining abt back pain.. well it was very evident that in tennis masters cup at Shanghai when Fedex had to recieve oncourt treatment.. Well does it mean somebody needs to show that he is getting treated on court to be genuine?.. Certainly not..,.Djokovic,Rafa frequently mislead everyone by doing so.. But fedex whom in my entire 6 year life of following him have not seen a single time calling a trainer on the court and he does that for the first time in TMC..i trust that is genuine…

September 7th, 2009 at 12:23 pm

double fault cost set for both players. weird.

September 7th, 2009 at 12:26 pm

Jane:

Anyhow, I don’t think women’s tennis should be “banned”. There have been a number of entertaining matches at this event, imo.
****************************

Look Jane.. whats the point in all these meaningless entertaining matches when the end result is known.. Serena – the eventual champion?? I mean you find it interesting because you are kept under suspense as to who is gonna hold the runners up trophy??

I mean thats really damn boring…At present the only one who has “some” chances still remote could be clijsters.. as far the so called hottie penetta is concerned… Serena will simply munch her.. Her serve literally makes her unbreakable.. wat a contrast to those mental cases who keep double faulting at a relentless rate

September 7th, 2009 at 12:29 pm

why is roger so early at the venue today? he arrived more than half an hour ago.

September 7th, 2009 at 12:29 pm

Kimo,

I’ll give Robredo one set alla Hewitt. Federer seems to have lapses these days against opponents he routinely beats. Robredo has enough quality in his game to take a set but not the mental fortitude to grind out 3 sets against the mighty Fed.

I’m sure there will be many tight moments in that match but Fed will come through.

Deep down, I don’t believe Robredo has the belief he can beat Federer in a best of 5 set grand slam match.

Decide that, I will be at the U.S Open final Sunday. Federer would never want to disappoint Cindy_Brady.

LOL

September 7th, 2009 at 12:34 pm

Sean the only reason you feel Fed may lose against Tommy is that Fed is out of the PR radar.
It’s perception. Murray and his PR machine have pulled out all stops this year. Imagine, Courier, Gimslob, Cahill, Agassi, McEnroe, etc etc. They are all pushing Murray OVER FED, saying he will win.

LOL Murray was the favorite at AO, Wim, and now again. If he can’t pull it out this time with all the talking heads helping him then he won’t win one.

Not that I care about fed either.

September 7th, 2009 at 12:34 pm

“whats the point in all these meaningless entertaining matches when the end result is known.. Serena – the eventual champion?? ”

Gannu, you could say the same thing about a lot of slams Fed won, esp. 2005-2006. I mean what was the point right? Works both ways.

I guess I just like watching tennis, women’s and men’s.

September 7th, 2009 at 12:39 pm

if you like monstrous flat forehand, you’d not want to miss robin’s.

September 7th, 2009 at 12:58 pm

it’s still a 50-50 match between robin an davy.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:00 pm

This is funny. I’m watching Oudin vs. Petrova; Petrova just broke Oudin again to go up 5-1, and the commentator says, ‘wonderful, Oudin has not lost serve yet in this match’. LOL.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:04 pm

vared: the “talking heads” have nothing whatever to do with whether Andy M can win or not and they’re all Americans so dunno where they’re coming from. He’ll get there soon enough with his own talent not on anyone’s sayso.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:07 pm

petrova is kicking oudin’s butt real bad. takes first set 6-1.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:07 pm

Petrova is one of the ladies who has a very good first serve – just hit a 119 mph ace and followed it up with another at 117. Oudin isn’t able to defend against that. I wouldn’t count Oudin out yet since she lost the opening set in all the other upsets. However, I think Petrova is playing well – 6 aces, 10 winners, not too many UEs.

I am happy to see Soderling doing well, not that I have anything against Davy, but Robin has had a breakthrough year, and I’d like to see that continue with a deeper run here.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:10 pm

my fav takes 2 sets to 1 lead. he’s on the march. hope he continues.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:10 pm

Hey Von, you should have heard Enberg and Carillo during Clijsters-Venus….sheeeshhhhhh

September 7th, 2009 at 1:11 pm

davy retires. that makes it easy for robin.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:11 pm

Oh no, Davydenko just retired. OY

September 7th, 2009 at 1:11 pm

A bit surprising that Davy retired, since he was in it. But he’s been plagued with injuries this year. I wonder for how much longer he’ll play, being 28 and having been pro for a decade. Hmmmm.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:14 pm

Veno: I muted the Carillo, Enberg team. LOL.

You needed to watch Zvonvs. petrova. Oh WOW, did Zvonareva have a meltdown or what? LOL.

Have you ever watched rush Hour 3? I watched it last night for the 5th time. It’s hilarious! I thought about you because of the French flavour in the movie.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:15 pm

if Fed beats Robredo, we get to see a QF where Soderling will have to prove nobody beats him 12 straight times..

Good to see Robin do good in the Slams after RG…
No fluke sir, no indeed….

September 7th, 2009 at 1:15 pm

Make that Zvon vs. Pennetta.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:16 pm

I saw Zvona-Pennetta and Murray-Dent :)

And have seen Rush Hour 3 at least 3 times, the previous ones even more often! Love those movies!

September 7th, 2009 at 1:17 pm

Veno: Sod says he was ‘yoking’ around when he said that. That’s a line taken from Vitas Gerulaitis when he finally beat Connors. LOL.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:18 pm

Veno: I like the Rush Hour 1 most of all. chris tucker is so funnnny!

September 7th, 2009 at 1:18 pm

Zvonareva had one of the biggest melt-downs in history at the Open(Roland Garros it was Hingis against Graf ’99 and remember Novotna’s meltdown at Wimby?)

It sure was a classic and she melted down being still totally in the match?! So weird!!!

September 7th, 2009 at 1:19 pm

I know Von. He said it after he finally beat Jimmy C after 16 failed attempts :)

September 7th, 2009 at 1:20 pm

Oh and of course Ozzie Open it was Fed this year…
Major break down too

September 7th, 2009 at 1:21 pm

However, Petrova’s second serve is not always reliable, so if her first serve goes off, then Oudin can take it to her with her digging ability. But Petrova is still playing well, some of the best I’ve seen in a while from her.

Her dress is another matter: nearly every point she’s yanking it down because it keeps riding it up. Methinks whoever designed it has not played tennis. They put an elastic ribbon right at the widest part of her hips.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:22 pm

seen all 3 Rush Hours at the cinema Vonnie! And I hardly ever go to the cinema.

Looks like Oudin ran out of steam…

September 7th, 2009 at 1:22 pm

Federer’s match should be on in one hour.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:22 pm

Veno: You’re brave going to the cinema. I don’t like crowds at all, and I watch everything at home.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:23 pm

Actually 2 hours Vonnie

September 7th, 2009 at 1:26 pm

Melanie’s young so she should try to add a little more attack to her game. She’s hit 4 winners to Petrova’s 12. She could also work on that serve so she can earn some easy points, since she’s such a great defender. If she can combine the two, who knows, she could be the next Henin-type on tour. That would be nice.

She’s rocking right now, love-40 on Petrova.

I hope this goes 3 sets.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:27 pm

Actually you’re right…1 hour

September 7th, 2009 at 1:28 pm

Darn time zones :)

September 7th, 2009 at 1:28 pm

“I have a sneaky suspicion that Roger Federer may get bounced today by Tommy Robredo. I’m not sure how or why, just a feeling. Federer, however, has won eight straight over the Spaniard and while my gut tells me something’s up, I’m sticking with the Swiss.”

?

September 7th, 2009 at 1:28 pm

So..Davydenko retired, giving Soderling his second retired opponent in the same tournament (what’s the record for retired foes in the same event?). Oudin has a strap on her thigh. Venus had more garb on her leg than anyplace else. Ditto Zveroneva. We have Nadal’s stomach, Verdasco’s back, Simon’s knee.

Am I missing anyone on this list of Walking Wounded???

September 7th, 2009 at 1:31 pm

Hey All, Too bad for Davy today. Robin has done well in the slams since RG and it’s good to see. Looking forward to the Fed match. Not sure what to think about it. He looked so unsure last match. I think he will find away to put that past him and raise his level today.

We saw this at RG from him. he struggled but managed to get it done. Should be a good match. Robredo is no slouch.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:33 pm

Voicemale1: Gonzo’s knee is taped.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:36 pm

Scottish: Hello, are you joining us today? But of course, Fed’s playing! he’ll win.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:37 pm

I would agree that nadal’s camp does not handle PR for him very well…I’m expecting that things will change there in the coming year. But I believe Nadal is just fatigued with the constant questions about his health — he’s not one to make excuses and he feels like that’s all anyone wants to discuss with him anymore. What gets me is that he was #2 for 4 years –on Fed’s heels all that time, and obviously was well enough to keep that ranking as long as Fed kept his #1 ranking…so year 5 and he reaches #1 and year 6 his knees finally need a break and everyone says his style of play won’t let him have a long career (?) he’s already had a long careeer and he has a lot more wins at his age than Federer achieved. With proper scheduling, and again I think his team has let him down on this one, he should have another long career ahead of him when he will far outstrip the accomplishments of Federer..I think that’s why Fed continues to play so long, he wants to rack up as many wins as possible because he thinks Nadal has the potential to do just that. And, I know all these top athletes have to have an ego — but can I just say Fed’s is certainly one of the biggest!

September 7th, 2009 at 1:39 pm

Petrova is beating up on my little girl. OUCH. Welcome to the major league, Melanie.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:39 pm

I believe Monfils also has some sort of injury Voicemale1. Or I thought I heard that.

Too bad, Melanie just got broken again. She needs to hone that serve.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:40 pm

Hey Von, I’ve been tuning in as much as I can and been able to watch some tennis. Been fun. I’ll be able to catch most of Fed’s match but have to run out for a bit. I’ve been trying to keep up on the WTA. It seems the way things are going it’s the intrigue of how messed up the rankings are that has got me interested. I’m pulling for anyone to win EXCEPT Serena. :-)

September 7th, 2009 at 1:40 pm

robredo won’t win a set. forget about 2 or the match. it’ll be a quick job.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:41 pm

Maybe I was thinking of Monfil’s wrist injury from Wimbledon, but I think that’s better now. It was Acasuso who retired against Gael.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:43 pm

Scottish: I never root against the US. Even though Isner ticked me off in his match vs. Roddick with his endless, stupid fist pumps and stalling tactics, I’m still going to root for him today and hopes he gets the ‘W’. That said, if Serena wins I’ll be happy.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:43 pm

Kvitova is playing. I saw Kvitova play in Fed cup and was beaten by Oudin.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:45 pm

Von I would be utterly shocked if an American cheered against an American. LOL. It’s against the constitution right? :-)

September 7th, 2009 at 1:45 pm

Oudin broke back and she let out a loud ‘Come on’. LOL

September 7th, 2009 at 1:47 pm

Wow Ouden fights back and gets the break. the women need to find a way to make their serves count more. It’s a huge advantage to be returning. That doesn’t make sense to me.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:47 pm

Scottish: “Von I would be utterly shocked if an American cheered against an American. LOL. It’s against the constitution right? :-)”

Yes, “we hold these truths ….” LOL.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:48 pm

Gwen, Fed wins because he likes to win, not because he thinks Rafa is going to catch up.

I would be extremely surprised if Rafa wins a double-digit no. of slams.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:49 pm

Gwen is a comedian?

September 7th, 2009 at 1:50 pm

Meli is letting out some Hewitt type ‘come ons’ and I bet Vared is spitting nails. LOL.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:50 pm

Scottish said:

“the women need to find a way to make their serves count more. It’s a huge advantage to be returning. That doesn’t make sense to me”

Read this:

http://tennisworld.typepad.com/thewrap/2009/09/a-leap-ahead.html

It’s an expalanation.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:52 pm

Thanks Kimo. That was a good read and enlightening. I am sure the technology has helped get the speed up there. I guess it’s one reason I enjoy watching the men more but I have to say I’ve been more into the close matches by the women. Competition is always fun to watch when it’s close.

September 7th, 2009 at 1:59 pm

federer will not win this us open…….nadal will win it and will go down as superior to federer even though he only will have 7 majors……federer winning the last two majors without nadal there will be a big blip on his career resume…..federer is not the goat…..

September 7th, 2009 at 1:59 pm

I’m showing Oudin being up 6-5 in the second. What are all of you talking about “beating up on Oudin”?

September 7th, 2009 at 1:59 pm

sportsfan:
slow day huh?

September 7th, 2009 at 1:59 pm

sportsfan the fed/nadal, goat discussion has been dragged to death on this blog. please don’t try to resurrect it. there’s lots of other great things going on in tennis and neither of them have finished their careers, we don’t have to keep wading through the mud all the time with this topic.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:01 pm

Gwen: „I think that’s why Fed continues to play so long, he wants to rack up as many wins as possible because he thinks Nadal has the potential to do just that.“

LOL! Of all the reasons, this would be the last one which I would think of :-)

September 7th, 2009 at 2:02 pm

just the fact guys…….do you guys really think federer is going to win 6 straight us opens!

September 7th, 2009 at 2:02 pm

“Turning to today, the crystal ball tells me things could again get dicey for the top seeds. ”

Yeah right. If I’m not mistaken, he’s undefeated against Robredo. I have not yet seen any reason to believe this will change any time soon.

“I’m not sure how or why, just a feeling.”

Great, so just an unjustified hunch.

“As for the women, the big match yesterday was the unusual 6-0, 0-6, 6-4 scoreline win by Kim Clijsters over Venus Williams. It’s really amazing how quickly Clijsters has returned to the top of game – or it just shows how bad the state of the WTA is right now. If not for Serena, Clijsters would likely walk away with another US Open title. It’s no wonder Justin Henin is in training.”

Retirement come backs take meaning away from the act of retirement. They get a big send off, but then it’s all for nothing when they come back a year later. I’m never going to believe anyone anymore when they say they retire and they are under 30. I’m just going to assume they’ll be back.

If Justine Henin returns I’m quite sure it won’t be because she sees the void in WTA talent as an opportunity to boost slam wins. When she was on tour and still #1 she was already far in front of everyone else that if this was her motivation she wouldn’t have retired. The field was weak even when she was here. She almost certainly would have won the French Open last year, and I always put her as a top contender for Wimbledon. But if she comes back, it makes all that drama from last year look like a deliberate grab for attention.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:03 pm

sportsfan – YES!

September 7th, 2009 at 2:03 pm

That’s a good article Kimo, thanks for linking it. This point I’ve noticed a lot with the women “A coach told me recently that some women have trouble controlling their tossing arms;” The one about losing power midway is also true. The fact that the return game has improved does put women into a jittery state when serving since they’re already having serving woes.

Maybe some of the training academies should be taking the blame too. These women were sent to such places as girls and if their coaches there didn’t teach them how to serve or inspire any confidence in them, then maybe they could take at least a little slack for it.

And speaking of little, it looks like Oudin is coming around here and putting in some serious fight to push a third set. Her defensive skills are remarkable. I also admire her tremendous poise considering her youth. But as Carillo said, and this time I agree with her, Oudin will have more pressure in her sophmore year on tour and we’ll really see how well she handles pressure. I think she’ll be just fine based on what I’ve seen so far. But that will indeed be more of a test.

It’s looking like a second set tiebreak.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:04 pm

I saw Federer in an interview last night on the Tennis Channel wherein he stated it’s his desire to play through as many generations of tennis players as he possibly can.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:05 pm

Petrova double faults and Oudin is 4-1 in the breaker. the US crowd is going wild and I think petrova will have a melt down soon.

Meanwhile, Wickemayer is leading Kvitova 4-1.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:10 pm

sportsfan Says:

just the fact guys…….do you guys really think federer is going to win 6 straight us opens!

YES….

Federer has the perfect game for this surface while Nadal does not. I think of Murray as a far bigger threat than Nadal at this point. My feeling is, it will be a repeat final of last year But this time Federer winning a much more difficult match in 5 grueling sets.

Murray is playing better than last year. Returning better, serving better, more confident. Why do people think Nadal will beat him? Just mystifies me.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:11 pm

Petrova blew the tie-break. I bet she’ll fall apart in the third set.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:13 pm

Well, here we go again. What a terrible tie-breaker from Petrova. Yet another mental breakdown.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:13 pm

Von there is a shift happening in many sports where guys especially are having much longer successful careers. Hockey, golf, and tennis as well. It doesn’t surprise me that Fed wants to keep going. And with technology and fitness he probably can. As long as he stays injury free.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:13 pm

sportsfan said:

“just the fact guys…….do you guys really think federer is going to win 6 straight us opens!”

Ummm…can you believe he won five in a row?

September 7th, 2009 at 2:15 pm

Petrova is having a mental melt down. She must attend the same physiology classes as Safina.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:16 pm

Well, I am happy to see this is going to a third. It’s a good test for Petrova and Oudin. I would not be surprised to see another upset. Petrova has a tendency to go off the boil, and Oudin does not give up. She does not choke. She has the edge in the 3rd. Petrova’s first serve went missing and that was a huge weapon in the first set.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:16 pm

I’m thinking Oudin will get out to a big lead and then Petrova will come back. Once the nerves quiet down.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:20 pm

petrova had her chances. no more. she is very likely to be another zvonareva.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:20 pm

I feel sorry for Petrova. The whole stadium is routing against her. Even every error she makes. New York fans are not known for their class, for sure.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:20 pm

Scottish: I don’t understand the age mentality at all. Each of us has different life spans in everything and sports is not an exception. Some people age faster than others, for me all things are just numbers, and that’s it, but age shouldn’t be a benchmark by which to determine an athlete’s career; form and health should be the determinant factors, IMO.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:28 pm

Hewitt and Henin – that’s a good way to describe Oudin Sean.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:29 pm

Yessss. Oudin breaks. C’mon Melanie, win this thing.

Hello Sean Randall, how ya doin’, remember moi. I guess you’ve decided to grace us with your presence today — have fun.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:31 pm

Petrova looks down and almost out.
Gotta hand it to Oudin! What a breath of fresh air!
Will we see another Zvona-like meltdown?

Concerning Fed: I can only say hahahahahaha
There’s only one reason he still plays tennis and that’s because he loves it and he doesn’t want to regret later he quit too soon(Ask Andre, Clijsters, Borg etc etc)

September 7th, 2009 at 2:32 pm

Veno: I think the one who regrets retiring most of all is Pete. Why do you think he keeps playing the exhos?

September 7th, 2009 at 2:35 pm

Von, that’s exactly my point. Age doesn’t matter. it’s about fitness, injuries, talent and determination. There’s no reason Fed can’t play for many years at a high level good enough to win.

Veno is right. Fed absolutely loves playing tennis. In some ways he’s like a kid.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:35 pm

Oudin. Has some Tracy Austin qualities about her. She is relentless and precise. Mentally very tough!

She is a smart player too. Plays with in herself and chooses the right shot at the right moment.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:35 pm

i have been bored to death with this lousy prolonging sophomoric tennis.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:40 pm

She’ll really have to dig deep again here. Petrova breaks back relatively easy. Let’s see how Oudin will handle this little setback. I guess she won’t be too fased!

September 7th, 2009 at 2:40 pm

Apparently Pancho won his last ATP event when he was…44!!

Agree with you Cindy – Oudin is similar to Austin, and even in their demeanor in interviews and whatnot, she reminds me of a young Austin – only she needs pigtails and pom-poms on her socks. LOL.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:41 pm

Petrova has the advantage over Oudin in her serve and can bang aces relatively easy. Hopefully, Oudin can continue to serve well or else the match will swing over to Petrova.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:43 pm

Von, I agree on Pete. At first it seemed best to retire on top. That he showed all the doubters(oh boy did he get some slack the last 2 years…Safina’s situation is a cake walk compared to that and he had 13!!! slams) he could still win a slam.

Later though I really think he started to miss it. When asked, he’d always gave the same, in my view rather flat, answer: “No, life is good without tennis, I have my family…One always wondered if he wasn’t missing the thing he loved most….Grinding it out on a tennis court!

Pete was such a joy to watch. Like Fed he loved tennis and loved being out there playing his heart out!

September 7th, 2009 at 2:44 pm

I don’t like come-ons, but when Oudin does it she looks so cute and feisty — a little power midget. LOL.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:46 pm

Rosewall was the oldest…Hong-Kong ’77 I think…

September 7th, 2009 at 2:46 pm

houdini’s expressions tickle me.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:47 pm

How old Veno?

September 7th, 2009 at 2:48 pm

He was 42 at the time Jane…Could be Rosewall was oldest in the Open Era and Pancho all-time

September 7th, 2009 at 2:51 pm

How many more tall Russians does this girl have to take down in a row before the Drago-Rocky storyline becomes obvious? It’s too bad her twin sister wasn’t in the tournament and beaten by one of these girls first along with some career ending injury.

I loved the CBS camera showing her mouthing the words “What the _uck?” in that last game when she sailed a easy forehand long. I like Petrova. She’s going down though.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:51 pm

Well that’s it – Kudos to this fighter, Oudin! She just does not relent. Admirable indeed. Next up for her will likely be Kuzy.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:54 pm

Veno: I’ve heard Pete state many times after the birth of his second child that he began feeling something’s missing in his life and lesser of a man. To me that speaks volumes. The stage of limerence between couples does not have a very long shelf-life and eventually males, more than females, begin to embrace their life’s work as a form of fulfillment that they derived from their occupation, which in Pete’s case is tennis. It’s too bad he was so hasty in retiring and he now has to live with that. However, he could still make a comeback. Jimmy Connors got to the QFs at the USO at age 39. Pete’s only 37, and in good health, so I don’t see why he couldn’t make a come-back, but I suspect he’ll not want to do that due to the media, etc. As I said to me all things are just numbers, but I’d never marry a man younger than myself though. LOL.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:55 pm

Could be Veno – the write up on Pancho was at the USO.org site, regarding their honoring of him the other night.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:56 pm

Mats Wilander started all the “come ons” in the 80s…Then Navratilova started mimicking it. Hewitt took it to new levels of obnoxious.

Now it seems common place amongst players.

Those who hate it….Thank Matts for creating the monster.

September 7th, 2009 at 2:57 pm

Pancho won his last title December 14, 1972(Open Era) at age 44 so he holds the record.

Here’s something interesting Pancho said in ’95 about Laver:

“At his best, I think I might’ve had too much court coverage for him. He was a great athlete, but he didn’t have the thinking part.”

September 7th, 2009 at 2:59 pm

Von Said:

“Jimmy Connors got to the QFs at the USO at age 39. Pete’s only 37, and in good health, so I don’t see why he couldn’t make a come-back, but I suspect he’ll not want to do that due to the media, etc. ”

No, he can’t make a comeback. Tennis has moved on. His game is out-dated, and while Taylor Dent is not of the same caliber as Pete, S&V is dead for the moment unless somehow over the next decade or so racquet technology sqings the momentum back in the server’s favor.

This is what happened to Hingis when she came back. Her game of cat-and-mouse tennis is no where to be seen at the moment, and she way only away for about 4 years. But during those years, women’s tennis has become a no-brainer bludgeoning game with no variety.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:00 pm

Von, I have been watching Nestor doubles instead of Comeon Oudin.

Scottish, not all Americans root for Americans. This is not the Olympics or Davis Cup.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:00 pm

Oudin is unbelievable for a 17 year old!!!!!!!!!

September 7th, 2009 at 3:01 pm

Veno said:

“He was a great athlete, but he didn’t have the thinking part.””

Ouch. LOL.

Where do u get your stats Veno?

September 7th, 2009 at 3:02 pm

3 Match Points…

September 7th, 2009 at 3:02 pm

In come Oudin and Pennetta….Great variety and determination!

September 7th, 2009 at 3:03 pm

houdini does it. congrats to her. cinderella story continues.
finally the match is over.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:04 pm

vared: I thought of you when the match began. Did you see my post wherein I stated you must be spitting nails at Oudin’s come-ons? Also, did you read my post when Oudin played Sharapova where they showed a stat that the shrieka had 11 loud comeons as opposed to Oudin’s 9? LOL. Even in that department the shrieka is ahead. LOL.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:05 pm

I’m a stats man Kimo :) And info is flowing all around! I use a myriad of sites

September 7th, 2009 at 3:06 pm

I’m happy Oudin came through, but did they have to ruin the moment by blaring that terrible Cher techno song from the 90s?

Somebody take out the DJ. Start the interview quickly so they kill the music.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:07 pm

Pete as great as he is with his volleying skills would get passed relentlessly by the big hitters.

Who ever wisely said “the game has passed him by”…Is right, unfortunately.

Wouldn’t it be a shot in the arm for American tennis if Oudin goes all the way. Shock the tennis world.

No disrespect to Serena but she seems to be a selfish type player who uses tennis for her other pursuits and doesn’t give back much. Oudin is just what woman’s tennis needs. A young All American looking pretty girl to carry the banner of woman’s tennis.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:08 pm

Another interesting fact concerning Pancho is that at age 44 he beat a young 16 year old Borg 6-1, 6-1 in a tourney in New York. That was in ’72!

September 7th, 2009 at 3:09 pm

This USO indeed is looking like a cinderella story for Oudin. I’m hoping Isner will continue to have a good run also. I’m still mad at him for using his stalling tactics and deliberately abusing the time between serves, not to mention his stupid fist pumps after every point, some of which are similar to Ivanovic’s at times. I hope he does not do that vs. Verdasco and plays more professionally.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:10 pm

Vared, I was just teasing Von about you Americans. Although I do think that it’s true of most Americans to only pick an American athlete no matter the sport. But really it was all in fun. :-)

September 7th, 2009 at 3:10 pm

In my region of the US they play a telethon all day on CBS on Labor Day. So I am watching a crappy quality stream at the moment. Tennis is so dead in this country, we can’t even get our home slam on, instead we have to watch some old guy trying to raise money for 4 hours.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:11 pm

I think Oudin has a good chance to get to the finals riding the confidence wave right now, but if she does and Serena is on the other side of the net aiaiai, chances are high that Serena will crush her Safina style

September 7th, 2009 at 3:12 pm

Shaky I am with you on the Cher-techno, but the did blast “Blitzkrieg Bop” by the Ramones earlier, so for me anyhow, there were highs with the lows in the DJ Dept.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:15 pm

Am afraid Von, Isner will at most win 1 more round.
Verdasco is doable, but beyond that. Don’t think Novak in normal form will have too many problems with John’s game, but you never know, we’ll see. I wish him all the best though. Is good if an American comes far.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:16 pm

Dan: The heaviness of the balls with the added nap would definitely kill Pete’s S&V, but he could adjust his S&V game playing from the baseline, which I’ve seen him do many times.

The talassemia disease is another problem, and now that he’s older it would definitely be a huge factor as I’m sure his body is more disease ravaged with time. Therefore, all things considered, I think Pete would be smart to just keep on playing exhos and stay away from the main tour. for each exho he plays I think he brings in a cool million bucks and then about 50-75K on the senior tour. Not a bad haul for a retiree.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:17 pm

shrieka had 11 loud comeons as opposed to Oudin’s 9?

Von I dont’ watch Oudin matches anymore like that comeon queen Safina. Thankful that she’s out.
Did they do a stat for today? I wonder if Petrova was “coming on?” I’m still hoping Kuz can take out Wozzy.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:17 pm

Ty, that’s crap. In Canada TSN chooses NASCAR and even sometimes bowling or poker over tennis, so I have to resort to streams a lot too. Surprisingly, CBS just took over coverage here so I get to watch a little on TV – Woot!

September 7th, 2009 at 3:18 pm

Von Says:

This USO indeed is looking like a cinderella story for Oudin. I’m hoping Isner will continue to have a good run also. I’m still mad at him for using his stalling tactics and deliberately abusing the time between serves, not to mention his stupid fist pumps after every point, some of which are similar to Ivanovic’s at times. I hope he does not do that vs. Verdasco and plays more professionally.

Isner did nothing wrong “sour grapes” woman of many excuses.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:19 pm

Scottish, I know you were teasing us. All Americans are different. I was born here but this is not the Olympics where my support would then be 100% if I were to watch the Olympics.

You’re Scottish, do you support Murray?

September 7th, 2009 at 3:21 pm

So, anyone got a good stream? Or are they all pretty average?

September 7th, 2009 at 3:22 pm

Well at least Kitty-ova is trying to win, LOL; it’s nice to see when players continue to go deep after causing an upset, rather than losing the next round like is often the case.

Players like Soderling at the FO & Oudin here are proving their wins by backing them up. Impressive.

I think Fed will win in straight sets today.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:22 pm

Veno: Yes, I agree Isner would most likely only win one more round because he’s had tougher matches than Djoko who’s had a very easy draw. I’m thinking Verdasco would not want to hand over the match without putting up a fight. Hence, by the QFs Isner will most likely be low on energy and that’s when he’ll lose. i’d like to see Isner make it to the QFs.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:23 pm

Here we go…talk to you later guys…Let’s see how Fed’s form and concentration is…I say….he wins in 4!

September 7th, 2009 at 3:24 pm

Cindy–

I’m not sure “sour grapes” makes any sense in this scenario. I think what you’re trying to suggest is that Von (and me, or any other roddick fan who expressed frustration that Isner was probably abusing the letter of the time rules) are taking the opportunity to put him down, or to suggest he didn’t deserve to win.

Those have nothing to do with sour grapes. You might say “poor loser,” or “sore sport” that would be a much more a propos idiom.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:26 pm

Looks like this is going to an entertaining match!

September 7th, 2009 at 3:28 pm

OUDIN!!!!!!

Congrats to Melanie for having such belief @17! Wow, loved her mum’s & sister’s reactions….I was reaching for tissues myself with a very large from happy laughter. lol.

I’m still supporting her. However, should Kuzzy get through her match, I doubt even Ouden’s fight can take out kuzzy….Kuznetsova is a fighter herself. I don’t know much about Wozniacki so can’t comment match on Ouden’s chances against her.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:30 pm

Wow, Fed looks sharp!

September 7th, 2009 at 3:30 pm

Wickmayer turned it around on the Ova-Kitty

September 7th, 2009 at 3:33 pm

Ah, looks like Kitty-ova is going down to Wickm after all – but it’s only 1 break, which doesn’t mean the end. Still, I think Bondarenko should come through this section and be in the semis, based on what I’ve seen of the matches.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:35 pm

Shaky: It’s obvious the idiot has zero commonsense. let’s ignore her. She called Roddick a brides-‘made’ not ‘maid’, which is laughable because that terminology could only be applied to a player who makes the finals of a GS and has never won it. Roddick has already been a bride since 2003, so this just proves her idiocy multiplied to the 10th exponent and then some …. a babbling brook and a clanging cymbal …. LOL and LOL again.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:39 pm

Fed having to work hard…

September 7th, 2009 at 3:41 pm

robredo looks surprisingly sharp early in the match. hope that does not bother roger.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:42 pm

To quote Kelso on that 70’s show: “BURN!”

September 7th, 2009 at 3:42 pm

Kitty-ova gets TWO breaks back to level the third set. Good for her.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:44 pm

Sloppy ref-ing from Ulrich there…

September 7th, 2009 at 3:45 pm

Umpire says “it’s either a little bit out or a little bit in…”

Er, tweedle-dee and tweedle-dum!!

September 7th, 2009 at 3:45 pm

Veno – no doubt.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:46 pm

And the Ova-Kitty holds for 5-5

September 7th, 2009 at 3:46 pm

and…”that’s why we have lines people judging it..

Tweedle, deedle….Ouch!

September 7th, 2009 at 3:47 pm

Fed’s match is being shown in the US on CBS.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:47 pm

You have the wonder team to listen to Vonnie :)

September 7th, 2009 at 3:53 pm

Fed starting to increase the pressure…

September 7th, 2009 at 3:54 pm

Poor Kitty-ova, levels it at 5-5 and then gets broken when serving to force a tiebreak. Oh well, at least she fought back and made it an exciting finish.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:55 pm

Fed not sharp on deuces and break points on Tommy’s serve

September 7th, 2009 at 3:57 pm

Veno: Yes, and it’s why I’m watching live streaming and the stream I have is in Spanish. LOL.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:58 pm

Veno Said:

“Fed having to work hard…”

Fed has indeed created a monster. LOL.

I’m not watching the match, but it seems to me whever Federer has to work like any other tennis player we think he’s struggling.

September 7th, 2009 at 3:59 pm

again, sloppy BH

September 7th, 2009 at 3:59 pm

Not saying he’s struggling Kimo, but Robredo is keeping up with him. So yes, he is having to work hard and that is fine :)

September 7th, 2009 at 4:00 pm

Good match so far! Robredo is playing very well I think. Not many UE, good ball retrieving and he is attacking sometimes too if given the opportunity, specially the Fed backhand.

Fed did have some chances though. Now he has to serve to stay in the set. Somehow I feel he didn’t find his extra gear yet.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:07 pm

Veno; are you watching Eurosport? English or Dutch?

September 7th, 2009 at 4:09 pm

You guys obviously know more about tennis than I do, however here in canada we love our hockey (called ice-hockey in the rest of world). Overhere, male hockey players get paid much much more then female hockey players, not because we practice societal misogyny, but because level of play is different. Women hockey is simply awful compared to the guys.

I think the same should be applied to tennis. Do you honestly deserve that g. dulko should get paid more than roddick at this us open? I think the biggest reason these belgians ladies are coming back to play tennis is for money, and why shouldn’t they.

Ladies tennis is a joke compared to men, look no further but top 20 – safina, ivanovich, zvonareva, etc… yo don’t see that in guys game. It’s unfair that male semifinalist gets paid the same as his female counterpart.

I’d like what the posters here think regarding this issue, considering that you guys are likely most knowledgeable tennis crowd out there.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:10 pm

Robredo has 1 more UE than Fed (9 vs 8) and he has a double (to Fed’s 4 aces). Plus he’s only hit half as many winners (6 vs. 13). But he is hanging in there, and that’s admirable. I still think Fed will win in straights.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:11 pm

Too bad Robredo misses a couple in a row now! Would have been nice to see a breaker!

September 7th, 2009 at 4:12 pm

English Pietje and Hi!!!

Agree on Robredo, he’s mixing it up. But as so often, 1 weak service game and now Fed gas the set.
Let’s see how Tommy will start the second…

September 7th, 2009 at 4:15 pm

Robredo to win in four sets……Federer looks bad still…

September 7th, 2009 at 4:16 pm

Agree with you PietjeP – too bad all those errors happen precisely when he could’ve served to force a tiebreak and create some drama … sigh. I still think Fed would’ve won the tiebreak as he’s playing at a higher level than Tommy, but then at least Robredo is in with a shot.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:16 pm

For all of you feeling for poor Safina: it’s not too bad so far, the amount of scolding she’s getting. I think that’s good for her….

September 7th, 2009 at 4:17 pm

sportsfan, you have incredible belief, unless you’re being sarcastic. I’d be shocked were Tommy to win in 4.

Fed: winners = 14/ UEs = 8
Tom: winners= 7 / UEs = 14

Stats don’t tell the whole story, as it’s also when the errors happen that matters.

Anyhow, I hope you’re right that Robredo at least stays in it and keeps fighting.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:19 pm

Veno, is she getting scolding? I haven’t been following the press and haven’t heard too much from the commentators. But then I haven’t looked for any press.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:20 pm

Fed’s serve is looking very good…keeps Tommy guessing all the time….nice BH pass by Tommy there…

September 7th, 2009 at 4:20 pm

Isner about to go up an early break on Verdasco.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:21 pm

PietjeP: Hello. The mosquito is buzzing. LOL.

_____________
Veno: All it takes for the champs to win is one break. Sampras always broke and then would let the other guy knock himself out holding onto his serve. Set = Sampras.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:21 pm

out wide, spin into the body, boomer down the T, boomer turning into the body….great variation by Fed

September 7th, 2009 at 4:23 pm

3-0 Inser….

September 7th, 2009 at 4:24 pm

Veno; I don’t think the English commentators are too bad. The Dutch are, although now it’s Edward van Cuilemborg and not that other, complete, idiot, who is far worse.

I didn’t see the brilliance from Fed yet in this match. Some shots he normally finishes off, now or just not winners.

One other thing I noticed in his last 2 matches. His footwork. It shows best in all attemps to run around his forehand and go for the winner. He has missed a dozen of those lately. Not just 1, but many, many.
He is just not positioned well when he runs around his backhand and hence, shanks a lot them. Not by an inch, but by a mile.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:24 pm

Crowd very subdued in Fed match. Hardly clapping etc.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:25 pm

I was just thinking that Von!

Fed’s playing like Pete did! Although Pete used S&V of course

September 7th, 2009 at 4:25 pm

When Roddick had to go through those four giants in DC everyone was talking as though its so easy to do that, now they’ll see how difficult it is to beat a giant. if isner wins this, djoko had better watch out.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:26 pm

I wouldn’t worry too much there Pietje…
Every opponent now hammering top spin balls on his BH, running around the BH is harder now for him, that’s why it seems he’s late many times compared to the old days. I think he sometimes overdues it on running around….

September 7th, 2009 at 4:28 pm

Veno: I’m talking about the mentality Pete used. Why knock himself out to win points on the other guy’s service games when he has a break in hand — Pete knew he’d hold serve. Roddick more or less played that way until he hooked up with Stefanki.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:29 pm

“…..but age shouldn’t be a benchmark by which to determine an athlete’s career; form and health should be the determinant factors, IMO….”

Very true words. Also this whole ‘Nadal had more slams than Fed at the same age’ story can no longer be used. Nadal is now 23 with 6 slams. Fed had 6 slams at age 23/24 (can someone confirm this…I’ve just calculated from when he won his 1st slam @age 21 going 22)….so basically, at age 23/24, they already have the same number of slams. so despite fed winning his first slam at a later age than Nadal, his rate of accumulation in the next two years was quite amazing.

Most men win their first slams at around age 20-22, e.g. Fed, Djokovic, Roddick, etc. i’m sure there are more but don’t have all the statistics. But it really shouldn’t matter…it’s what they do after winning that first slam….continued win, the rate of accumulation…keeping healthy, etc. Gonzalez will gladly take his first slam at age28 & be tied with Roddick in terms of no. of slam wins. Until someone retires, age is just a number.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:30 pm

Von; better let the mosquito draw some blood, then trying to fight it off without succes and then hear the buzzing all night… :)

I’m really looking forward to tomorrows match between Rafa and Monfils. Hope Rafa’s abs are ok. But that match should provide some show. You never know with Monfils!

September 7th, 2009 at 4:32 pm

True Von, Isner always dangerous and facing 4 ginats in a row is no easy road. A problem for Andy is that he still lacks the skill/confidence to play closer to the baseline and take the ball earlier. He was imo way too passive in the first 2 sets against Isner, and I can’t shake the feeling it was because he was feeling a little insecure.

After getting 0-2 down he got into it and started to be more aggressive and it paid off. The fifth set tiebreak Isner played out of his skin. That was one of the best tiebreaks I’ve seen this season.

Only thing Andy can blame himself a little is playing too passively at 4-3 up and 0-40 on Isner’s serve, but hey at least Andy always, and I mean ALWAYS gives more than money’s worth!

September 7th, 2009 at 4:33 pm

been there: As I said to me, numbers don’t really matter. I’m not phased by numbers and it’s why it doesn’t matter to me how many titles a player winsnor H2Hs. I like to see an exciting match whenever my player plays, and that’s all that matters. if i was in love with numbers I’d root for the player who’s won the most. Some people are very hung up on first serve percentage, and the whole numbers scenario, for me it’s only ….. numbers.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:35 pm

Damn… schedule is out. Nadal-Monfils is the last night match. Too bad :(

September 7th, 2009 at 4:37 pm

Fed had 4 slams at just 23 years old(Nadal is just 23)

September 7th, 2009 at 4:37 pm

robredo’s spark did not last long. neither did isner’s.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:38 pm

Verdasco clawed his way back…3-3

September 7th, 2009 at 4:39 pm

PietjeP: I agree, let it suck and buzz. I need my rest. LOL.
___________
Veno: I still can’t get over watching Roddick play so far behind the baseline and am wondering why. The only logical reason I can find, is that the giants hit so hard and deep that Andy needs time to set up to return the ball deep and in the court. Playing closer to the baseline with that power coming at him would mean the return will be hit out. It’s over now, but he had such a good shot at going far at the USO, that I can only shake my head and sigh. He was very disappointed.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:40 pm

Von says “if isner wins this, djoko had better watch out.”

Djoko better watch out versus Stepanek tonight based on their last match here, which went the absolute distance, not to mention Djoko’s play in the last round. Forget the winner of this match! If Djoko gets to the quarters, as I said from the start, that’ll be good. If he gets to the semis great.

But it would be interesting to see Isner play Fed with his improved game, since Inser took a set off Fed here in 2007.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:41 pm

I see Fed gave Robredo a breadstick to snack on before dinner. LOL.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:41 pm

Looks like Fed is winning the 2nd set comfortably.

We’ve seen and heard from guys like sports fan before. They are the people who think Federer is nothing but a lucky fellow. They don’t know the mettle of this guy.

Don’t be confused by his effortless style, his beautigul game, and his ballet footwork. This guy is a fighter.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:43 pm

I don’t think Isner has lost his spark, in so far as the match is still on serve.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:46 pm

Isner played Roger in the third round in ’07. This time it would be in a Semifinal. No disrespect to John, but Fed is at his best in Finals weekend…
I doubt Isner would take a set off Fed.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:47 pm

jane: Comeon, we went over this before — that was 2007. Stepanek is a mere shadow of himself as compared to that ’07 match. What has Stepanek done lately? Nothing. Kohls same scenario as Step, but Step I believe is a bit more mentally tough and the reason he won. I know age shouldn’t matter, but Step is about 8 years younger than Djoko, so in this case coupled with Step’s bad form, Djoko should win easily.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:48 pm

And Von, I am so disappointed for Andy too. I just wished he wouldn’t have let the fact he was playing Sasquatch get him in such a passive mode. It was because of Andy that Isner was getting more and more comfortable going to the net.

Normally Andy’s a fast starter and looked at 4-3 0-40 he would again, but let it slip. If he had taken that first set….Oh my..

Oh well onto the rest of the season, work hard and do it again next year!!! He can do it, He’s just 27 and in the best shape of his life!

September 7th, 2009 at 4:50 pm

isner’s spark is back. robredo’s won’t.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:51 pm

There ya go, Isner won the first set. It’s difficult beating the giants and I’ll reiterate, they need to be put in a league of their own because they have an unfair advantage over the other guys. It’s so easy for them to lob and hit an overhead smash taking the ball on the rise, especially if they are at the net waiting for a return. Wrong, wrong, wrong …. put them in a different league.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:53 pm

Well the Fed-Robredo match went out like a candle after 5-5 in the first set. Too bad…

September 7th, 2009 at 4:53 pm

Veno Said:

“Fed is at his best in Finals weekend…
I doubt Isner would take a set off Fed.”

I totally agree with the first sentence, but I’m not so sure about the 2nd. With a serve like Isner’s it’s always possible to steal a set from Fed.

But yeah, no way Isner can win it.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:54 pm

Step is of course 8 yrs older, but I agree Von. Jane, you have a tendency to zoom in on the negatives considering your fave…Why? It’s always, yes but….. Your prerogative of course Jane, just saying…

I don’t get that. Novak is a clear favourite. I give Stp a 20% shot and his game has to be spot on and Novak’s has to be off for the day.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:55 pm

roger will finish off in next 15 minutes max.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:56 pm

Stepanek has been playing excellent tennis here Von; did you see his match versus Kohls? He played great in my opinion. I think Stepanek will be a challenge with his net charging style. Djoko played badly in the last round, don’t know if you saw that? However, he did raise his level at the right time, plus this is a night match, and he likes playing at night generally speaking. We’ll see. I think it could be competitive. That’s my opinion.

——————–

Veno, you may be right re: Isner/Fed in a semi vs. third round; Fed certainly saves his best for last. But I do feel John’s game has improved considerably since 2007 based on that last match with Roddick. I was really surprised at his touch and ground strokes, not to mention how well he was returning, even if Andy’s serve wasn’t at it’s blistering best. Was merely thinking it’d be “interesting” to see them play now.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:57 pm

Lol Kimo
I said “I doubt Isner could take a set” under the assumption of my first sentence lol.

Of course Isner can take a set, but I doubt it.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:57 pm

dj-step match is 50-50.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:57 pm

Veno: Andy came out flat-footed and he let Isner dictate play. He seemed to be out of it. As I said, and I’ll say it again, I want to see Isner play Djoko because of how many criticized Roddick in DC when he had 4 giants to beat, poo pooing him and saying it was nothing. Then scenario repeated in Montreal. That’s tiring.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:57 pm

Novak is a threat to anybody if he’s on his game, but if he’s having a bad day he can lose to lesser players (like losing in str8s at RG to Kohls).

Novak with the W in 4.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:57 pm

Poor Robredo, Fed is making it into a practice session.

September 7th, 2009 at 4:59 pm

Don’t have to convince me Von, you already after Legg Mason and Montreal…

September 7th, 2009 at 5:01 pm

Veno, I have told you; I am a pessimist by nature. But below are my reasons for thinking the match could be competitve.

And let me point out: I never said “Step is the favorite” or “Step will win” – I merely said Djoko better “watch out” this round and forget looking ahead to the next one.

1. Their last match here may be one of the longest matches ever played at the USO. True, it was in day and Step was younger. But it was still tight. And it’s not like Djoko has a great H2H with him.

2. Step has been playing great so far. Loved his match vs. Kohls. He served and volleyed to great effect.

3. Meanwhile, Djoko hit 52 errors last match! So his form has been questionable – and as Von pointed out, he hasn’t had a tough draw so maybe that works against/for a guy – it can go either way.

There are the reasons that I think Djoko should “be careful” tonight and that it could be “competitive.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:05 pm

Veno: No, I’m not trying to convince you. I’m talking about those who put down Roddick when he lost forgetting what he had to do to get to the final as opposed to his opponent who didn’t face any difficult opponents plus got a walkover.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:05 pm

robredo barely saves bagel in the 3rd.
way to go, roger.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:06 pm

Tommy wants to hit the shower…

September 7th, 2009 at 5:07 pm

great to see them having a laugh…

September 7th, 2009 at 5:10 pm

Of how Fed would like to come to net more…
But in today’s game(great article btw earlier Kimo…enjoyed it) S&V will be hammered….

September 7th, 2009 at 5:12 pm

Von Says:

Veno: No, I’m not trying to convince you. I’m talking about those who put down Roddick when he lost forgetting what he had to do to get to the final as opposed to his opponent who didn’t face any difficult opponents plus got a walkover.

Yes…You have convinced me. Roddick is the only player on tour who has difficult matches. Those who beat Roddick only do so because they have easy draws and lucky breaks.

Outstanding “homer-ism”

*Applause please**

September 7th, 2009 at 5:12 pm

Fed really looked sharp the last two sets – but gotta say, the DJ could change up the “Still the One” song every time he wins. :)

September 7th, 2009 at 5:14 pm

So many guys Fed beats over and over again must hate him right? Nope, he still gets voted most popular/fair by his peers….weird.
I would surely not like a guy who would beat me repeatedly, but then again I don’t know him personally.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:15 pm

Roger has activated his week 2 gear :)

September 7th, 2009 at 5:17 pm

Verdasco-Isner is a good match so far. Hot Sauce(is it?) about to level the match at 1-1

September 7th, 2009 at 5:19 pm

“Fed had 4 slams at just 23 years old(Nadal is just 23)”

I said 23/24……:)

September 7th, 2009 at 5:19 pm

Fed just won his 38th match in a row at Flushing…
You can’t be “lucky” and pull that off….

September 7th, 2009 at 5:20 pm

been there, done that Says:

“Fed had 4 slams at just 23 years old(Nadal is just 23)”

I said 23/24……:)

Again my young friend, don’t take it so serious…I just made a statement, I was not attacking yours…

You just asked…anyone confirm that?

In comparing Fed, take Ozzie Open ’05 to Nadal’s USO ’09 to compare how many slams they have at Nadal’s present age….

Rafa 6 – Fed 4

But Nadal will have to start racking 2 a year for the next 5 years! to be able to have a chance to get to Fed’s total, provided Fed doesn’t win more than 1 in said period….Seems a little premature stating Rafa will pass Fed….

September 7th, 2009 at 5:25 pm

Hotsauce’s forehand, when it connects, is wicked!

September 7th, 2009 at 5:26 pm

Hotsauce an advantage against righty giants being a lefty…

September 7th, 2009 at 5:27 pm

Wow…seems like Fed had a point to proce. After that first set, I was expecting a closer 2nd set.

Congrats to him…..endless achievements. Now to see what special thing Soderling will try out. Their Wimby match was quite close, with two tie-breaks, despite it being straight sets for Fed. Maybe the Sod manages a set this time round. exciting match ahead!

September 7th, 2009 at 5:29 pm

Lol Vonnie, Isner already making circular fist pumps on almost every point….

September 7th, 2009 at 5:29 pm

What a great match by Fed. He was really on. The great thing is that he wasn’t even at his best level. He needs to keep this going though. No falters Roger.

I’m out again for a while but will be watching later and hopefully have some time to catch up. Enjoy the great tennis!!

September 7th, 2009 at 5:29 pm

Veno Says:

Fed just won his 38th match in a row at Flushing…
You can’t be “lucky” and pull that off….

Are you kidding. Federer only plays easy opponents and gets many walkovers. That’s why he’s won 38 in a row. I’m shocked you didn’t know that. Shame on you!!!

Seriously,

Can’t see Soderling beating Federer in the Qs. Another semi-final appearance for Federer.

I’m a little disappointed Robredo didn’t put up a better fight. After he got broken in the 1st set…it’s if he resigned the match. No heart Robredo.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:30 pm

Veno: Not only the fist pumps he’s stalling between pumps and serves. He probably watches Ivanovic and likes her pirouette, so maybe we’ll see a piroutte soon. LOL.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:32 pm

“Again my young friend, don’t take it so serious…I just made a statement, I was not attacking your…”

lol. I can’t take anything written on a tennis blog ‘seriously’! It’s a tennis-blog, not a political one, so it’s just for fun. Nothing more. Just like you, am just having fun. lol

It’s all good

September 7th, 2009 at 5:32 pm

You’re being a little too harsh on Tommy there Cindy.
He tried his best in the second set, scrambling and retrieving a lot, mixing it up but Fed put his foot down and broke his serve and his spirit. His confidence just snapped. He had no chance on Fed’s serve, not even when he had 15-40 to get 1 break back…

September 7th, 2009 at 5:34 pm

Von, I don’t know but looking at Isner makes me think about the XXL version of the Teletubbies…

I see him hobble around in a light blue suit going by the name Tally Wally

September 7th, 2009 at 5:35 pm

Anyone noticed the little thing Isner does where he reverse dribbles the ball between his legs when prepping to serve?

Look out for it! It’s his quirk! Like sharapova pushing her hair behind her ears, nadal’s butt picking, or roddick doing about 30 nervous twitches and adjusting the shoulders on his shirt. I think it may be time for more Novak impersonations…

September 7th, 2009 at 5:38 pm

Veno: Tally Wally is hilarious. If this set goes to a tie-break Isner will win it on his aces.

Tell me why do you bother to talk sense to nonsense? Isn’t obvious that it’s done for attention?

September 7th, 2009 at 5:38 pm

Fed has won three slams in 04,06 and 07 and maybe 09. The pace at which he won slams is unprecedented in Men’s tennis and can only be compared to Navratilova’s in women’s tennis.

Rafa in his best year won 2 slams.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:39 pm

Shaky: Yes, I’ve noticed. A shorter guy would be crying out in pain if he were to do that. LOL.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:40 pm

Veno Says:

You’re being a little too harsh on Tommy there Cindy.

Perhaps,

I just wanted to see Federer pushed more. More of a thriller than yawner.

Oh well…Not Fed’s fault he so talented.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:41 pm

Isner was about to do a fist pump but then Verdasco hit the ball in the court and he was poised in flight — frozen. LOL.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:42 pm

Yes, I saw him do it…Dunno why…

Fed used to play it through the legs while walking up to serve as did a lot of players, but this I have never seen….Guess it’s easier at 6″9′

September 7th, 2009 at 5:43 pm

Isner looks a bit tired today and this is where Verdasco can capitalize to go up 2 sets to 1 before he gets a second wind.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:44 pm

“…. but gotta say, the DJ could change up the “Still the One” song every time he wins. :)”

lol. the sound system being used in the change-overs is poor-hurting my ears! It’s really screechy.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:46 pm

To take three sets off of Fed in a slam is a monumental effort. The only players that have done it since the Austrlian Open in 05 are Nadal and Djokovic.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:48 pm

Cindy, I also like Fed being challenged more, but usually in slams it takes Rafa on the other side of the net. The quality of tennis they have played in Slams is mind boggling. Apart from 2 all on in the Ozzie Open final 5th set this year they played ridiculous tennis! I hope an in-form Novak or Murray can give him a run for his money!

And let’s not forget Soderling….He can realy trouble Fed.

Should be an interesting match up on HC. I’ll take Fed in 4 sets though…

September 7th, 2009 at 5:48 pm

Why is Isner getting so much hate?

September 7th, 2009 at 5:49 pm

Federer 9- robredo 0, too bad, robredo!!!

September 7th, 2009 at 5:50 pm

I’m proud of Isner whether he wins this match or not.

He’s accomplished much during this tournament.

Please bloggers don’t make fun of him or his height. I can’t stand when people take cheap shots at players by the way they look. They can’t help it. Not every body can be “model” looking perfect.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:52 pm

Verdasco’s return making all the difference.

Soderling has lost to Fed 11 times. Fed loves playing big flat hitters. He can spin their shots back for winners.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:52 pm

Unbelievable.this from the two worst critics about making fun and hate. LOL.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:53 pm

been there, done that said:

“the sound system being used in the change-overs is poor-hurting my ears! It’s really screechy.”

But I do enjoy “Who let the dogs out?”

September 7th, 2009 at 5:53 pm

Considering his bad W-L record in his first 16 slams(29-16) it’s amazing his overall W-L record is 186-26(157-10 form Wimbledon ’03 through USO ’09) with 125 of the 186 wins in straight sets.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:53 pm

blah: I believe the lefty return is the big problem and it’s why Verdasco has the upper hand in the rallies.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:54 pm

Fed loves playing everybody who isn’t a Spaniard named Nadal. He beats counter punchers, big servers, “giants”, flat hitters, agressive players, defensive players.

Really, only Nadal has the game to hurt Fed, and it’s gotta be a slow surface too (which means a Nadal win over Fed at Flushing is a virtual impossibility).

September 7th, 2009 at 5:56 pm

Wimbledon isn’t exactly ‘slow’. And the AO isn’t exactly played on clay. And Dubai is considered one of the fastest hard courts around. Murray has the game to beat Federer. Djokovic has beaten Federer several times now.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:59 pm

Von- I agree that’s a part of it, though I want to see Roddick improve his return game because I think that might be what pushes him over the hump.

Also, just a note, I don’t believe any of the younger American players on the atp can make much of a noise at slams, but if I were to pick one, I would take Querrey’s potential over Isner any day. Isner is not the “future” as all the commentators are hyping him up to be.

September 7th, 2009 at 5:59 pm

Why does everyone say Nadal is better than Roger? Yeah Nadal has beaten him more, but Nadal needs to make it to more finals like Rogers’ 20 finals to nadals’ 7 or 8 finals.He couldn’t even defend his FO and Wimby titles, since his dominance, Roger hasn’t lost in the 4th round on his best surface!

September 7th, 2009 at 6:00 pm

Kimo,

I would be more worried about Murray. Don’t think Nadal will beat him if they meet. Murray has looked spectacular so far. Nadal, while winning has been shaky at times.

I’m still not seeing the same movement out of Nadal that I saw at AO. Maybe it’s my imagination. Anyone else notice this?

September 7th, 2009 at 6:01 pm

” I can’t stand when people take cheap shots at players by the way they look. They can’t help it. Not every body can be “model” looking perfect.

Posted September 7th, 2009 at 5:52 pm’

I suppose referring to Murray and Davydenko are the ‘fugliest’ two players is not making fun of them? WOW, how selective we are and oh soo, sooo noble, when it suits us. Or what about referring to Roddick as a brides-‘made’and the other lovely names he’s called? I suppose that’s Ok when she’s doing it? sick!!

September 7th, 2009 at 6:01 pm

Kimo- Fed has problems with counter punchers, take your homer glasses off.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:01 pm

blah said:

“Fed has problems with counter punchers”

Who? Rafa is not a counter puncher.

And Murray? No way he can take three sets off of Fed. No freakin way. Their last match at Cincy proved that finally Fed has figured him out.

His wins over Fed at the end of last year/beginning of this year were due to Fed’s bad back. End of Story.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:04 pm

blah: I agree Roddick could work some more on his return game and be more dialed in at times. I agree with you on the future of American tennis that it lies more with Querrey than Isner. Querrey is a better mover and has more stamina and endurance.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:04 pm

I have noticed that the poster named von hates when isner pumps his fist, but loves it when oudin does it, because apparently it’s cute when she is doing it.

Sounds like something that would come from the mouth of someone with dementia.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:05 pm

Lol. I get it now. If not for Nadal’s illegal top spin shot and for Fed playing so courageously when his back was killing him, Fed would win 40 slams. I don’t know why Fed fans want him to be this perfect god like player with no weaknesses. He lost to Simon, a second tier counter puncher (twice), he lost to Murray a bunch of times, Nadal troubles him because he chases down the ball and get shots that would be winners back and force Federer to hit another stroke. Some people are so delusional it’s unbelievable.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:08 pm

blah: Verdasco is returning flat and down to Isner’s shoe laces which makes it difficult to bend. That’s what it takes to beat the tall guys as in Karlovic and DelPotro. when the return is so low it handcuffs them.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:09 pm

Von,

You sure know how to hold a grudge. Maybe the Japanese should make a horror movie out of your anal-retentive life.

I’m going to have so much fun watching (LIVE) Federer raise the trophy for the 6th straight year.

And I did make a mistake calling Roddick a Bride’s maid. You would first have to get to the final and lose to be that. He is now a Has Been.

Happy dear??

September 7th, 2009 at 6:09 pm

Murray and Delpotro have looked best so far. Also very impressed with Monfils and Tsonga, but they are always shaky…

It’s just that if Fed gets through Soderling, you wonder how much gears he still has to push his level up. Probably plenty and when his serve is clicking he’ll be hard to beat but it’s surely possible. Things heating up now!

September 7th, 2009 at 6:09 pm

I don’t know why, but get the feeling that Isner is very tired. I don’t see the same spark he had in his other match.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:10 pm

*many

September 7th, 2009 at 6:11 pm

That’s because he’s 2-1 down in stead of 2-0 up and Verdasco is punishing him physically and mentally.
Playing at a higher speed and with more power than Andy did thus taking time away from slow moving Isner. This pressures him to serve better, well you all can fill in the rest…

September 7th, 2009 at 6:13 pm

Brady:

When you expound sh*t and try to look noble/righteous, make sure your slate’s clean. Don’t preach sainthood when you’re a devil and that’s what you are and a hypocrite also. I’m not the one holding the grudge, you are. According to you ‘no one crosses Cindy Brady’, and you said that even though I did nothing to you when you began harassing me after I stood up to you with your Roddick put downs. You use these threads to gain some attention and unleash your venom, so now deal with it and if you can’t then STFU. Better yet stuff a sock in it. For an old woman 65+ you’re absolutely bitter picking on a young man like Roddick who could be your grandson. Get a life!

September 7th, 2009 at 6:17 pm

Veno Says:

That’s because he’s 2-1 down in stead of 2-0 up and Verdasco is punishing him physically and mentally.
Playing at a higher speed and with more power than Andy did thus taking time away from slow moving Isner. This pressures him to serve better, well you all can fill in the rest…

Basically playing a strategically more intelligent match than Roddick did.

Roddick turned it more into a serving war against a 6-9 giant who is stronger than he is.

Brilliant!

September 7th, 2009 at 6:17 pm

The latest story on Examiner.com talks about Clijsters and Oudin, who could meet in the final. Does anyone here buy that?

http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-22652-Pro-Tennis-Examiner~y2009m9d7-Clijsters-Oudin-bring-US-Open-womens-draw-alive

September 7th, 2009 at 6:18 pm

Yeah, Verdasco is standing right on the baseline and moving into the court especially on returning second serves.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:19 pm

i am so so happy that hot sauce broke the ET in the 4th. that should be enough.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:20 pm

@ 6:17 pm: Here we go another Roddick putdown and an example of what she preached about making fun when it suits her. Does this amoeba ever shut up.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:21 pm

Nalbandian and Hewitt are counter punchers who used to own Federer.

One good win over Murray doesn’t mean he’s “figured him out”. I’d like to see a few more wins before I say Murray is no longer a thorn in Fed’s side.

Nadal is a natural counter puncher. This isn’t a knock at his game or anything because he is very all around player nowadays. But he is a natural scrambler who likes to make his opponents play the extra ball or 3. It was only in the last few years he became more aggressive and whatnot.

As for the back issue. I agree it made Fed’s SERVE worse, but Murray still needed to win 7-5 in the third which means Fed must not have been playing THAT bad.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:22 pm

sensationalsafin….sorry to break it to you, but you’ve got things turned the wrong way imo.

Murray is still the one needing to prove himself in a Slam, not Fed.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:28 pm

Apparently 26 of 32 women’s seeds had lost before today. Not a good picture. Kim Clijsters could win it all, which would be even worse for the state of the WTA.

On the men’s side, the only unseeded player in the 4th round is Isner. Only about 2 of the remaining seeds is not in the top 16.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:30 pm

Sensational Safin- I pretty much agree, though I don’t think the back troubled him as much as some would like to think on here.

Federer is a great player, and I think he has a great shot to take a couple more slams, and by the end of his career it would be pretty hard to argue someone else was the goat, but I don’t know why people keep trying to make it seem as the be-all end-all of tennis. God forbid that even he had weaknesses.

And Verdasco pretty much has this wrapped up. He should face Djokovic, and if Djoker loses to Stephanek, then I would say it’s about time to start worrying.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:30 pm

Rafa is the only player with a positive H2H against Fed in Slams…

The 6-3 for Murray rell he’s owned Fed? Hahaha, sure!

I think Murray also thinks he has owned Fed so far cause he beat him 6 times?

September 7th, 2009 at 6:30 pm

strange the E.T. is playing more baseline rally than the net but only to lose the match.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:32 pm

I’m hoping the Djokovic/Stepanek match is a thriller.

I think Stepanek can trouble Djokovic who’s not looked good. He may win. *Crosses fingers*

Looks like it’s over for Isner. Oh well. He did the job I wanted him to do. Thumbs up Isner.

*Kisses and Hugs, gentle giant*

September 7th, 2009 at 6:32 pm

blah: “… and if Djoker loses to Stephanek, then I would say it’s about time to start worrying.”

Amen to that!

September 7th, 2009 at 6:32 pm

blah, I’m fully aware of his weaknesses and I openly criticize Fed as I do all players when I see reason to.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:32 pm

Fed Allstop has to win this open for sure! If not he has to be a real disgrace. Because like his recent 2 victories at the slams. He is having real easy draws. He will be playing guys who has pretty good head to head against and those who has never beaten him previously, instead of the players who are ruling the ATP tour currently. Warinka, Murray, Tsonga, Simon Gillies, Nadal, those who could beat or crush him are all on the other draws. While he will be playing all these guys who fear him for their entire career, Roddick, Soderling, Tommy and all that.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:33 pm

I never said Federer needed to prove himself. I’m not saying Murray is a better player than Federer and that he’s so accomplished whereas Federer is not. There’s no arguing with Federer’s accomplishments and Murray still has a lot of work to do to go down as a great player of any kind. I’m just talking about their personal H2H. Murray’s game troubles Federer and it always has. Federer has always spoken highly of Murray and has also been quick to criticize Murray’s reliance of his defensive skills. Federer and Murray both know Murray cares more about winning slams than simply always beating Federer. And Murray does need to step up his aggression to start winning slams. Either way, he still has the ability to beat Federer, although I don’t really think he’d beat him in a slam either.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:35 pm

Congratulations to Isner for a good tourney win or lose against Verdasco, which seems likely

September 7th, 2009 at 6:35 pm

Veno- that wasn’t directed towards you, just the delusional Fed fans. I think you are a pretty fair poster.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:36 pm

There’s our comedian Rick again..

And I agree sensationalsafin… Murray is a future multiple slam winner, I have absolutely no doubt about that. I do hope he’ll start playing more aggressive though.

He was very aggressive against Taylor last night but he had to be. Let’s see how he does when he’ll meet a big hitter with a good baseline game. Is he going to do the cat and mouse routine all night again? Hope not.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:38 pm

Wawrinka can crush Federer? Tsonga? Hell, even Simon and Murray can’t crush Federer. With all his rivals on the OTHER side of the draw, he should make the finals, not win it. He should be facing one of those rivals who can crush him in the finals, so he shouldn’t beat them. So he should make the finals or he’s a disgrace.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:39 pm

Thanks blah, appreciate it

September 7th, 2009 at 6:40 pm

Fed Allstop going to win his next match for sure. Verdasco has never beaten him. And Mister Allstop was trouble by Hewitt in the third round. He really should had won it in three that match. If Djokovic could gets into the semi. That would be the real contest for Fed Allstop, and really has to depends who he plays in the final. He is having a real lucky year. So probably Murray would gets eliminate and not getting into the final.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:42 pm

hot sauce serves out the match.
congrats to verdasco for surviving the E.T.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:43 pm

blah: This should put a smile on your face. I pick Gasquet to win the 2010 FO. However, don’t beat up on me if it doesn’t happen.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:44 pm

It’s good to see another Spanish Hard Court specialist…

In the old days(before Moya) all of them played clay court tennis on a hardcourt.

I like this trend with also Nadal improving on HC.

Good times!

September 7th, 2009 at 6:46 pm

Veno is the real comedian here! He thought that all those losts from Fed last year was all because of his mono. You gotta to do abit of reading there. Like Shaky said, he had mono previously. When someone is having mono. They would have to stay in bed and all that. And blah!Blah! Blah!

September 7th, 2009 at 6:46 pm

blah,

Federer is the best we have going right now in tennis. I’m not delusional or blind. I’ve seen many greats come and go.

During the Borg era…People used to talk about him in God like terms. They used to measure his pulse rate and say he was super human. It turned out he wasn’t. Same thing with Sampras for a while.

Federer bleeds like the rest of us and sh*ts brown stuff too. He’s a great tennis player in my eyes. Maybe the GOAT, but somebody will come along at some point and replace him. If not Nadal…Someone else in the future.

I know how to keep proper perspective. But I know what you mean.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:47 pm

Wertheim’s take on today’s matches.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/jon_wertheim/09/07/usopen.monday/index.html

September 7th, 2009 at 6:47 pm

Fed Allstop had mono in the first set againt Hewitt the other day! lol

September 7th, 2009 at 6:49 pm

Veno: Are you going to stay awake for the night session?

September 7th, 2009 at 6:50 pm

Von- wow 0_0 that’s going out there. I don’t think it’ll happen because he has missed the last two FOs and doesn’t seem to like the pressure, but thanks.

If he can get his head right, I think he could have a serious shot at Wimbledon, because of the limited number of contenders there- (Federer, Nadal, and your Roddick are the only ones who have been a contender that for most of the years.) In fact, I really thought Gasquet was going to be a dark horse at wimbledon at the beginning of the year, before the whole suspension thing. His game fits well with the surface.

But right now I’ll be happy to see him make it back inside the top 20 and to see how things go from there.

Still can’t believe he choked against Murray in 08 wimby, the two careers have gone in completely opposite directions since then.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:50 pm

to sidestep back to yesterdays Zvona-Pennetta scuffle.

Zvona had 6 match points and all of those Pennetta played so unbelievably well and what was even more impressive. She went flat out! Not 1 tentative shot playing thos 6 points and winning every point with a clean winner! Hardly ever seen mental strength and bravery like that. And it totally destroyed Zvonareva. A demolision if I ever seen one!

Since that she will be a favourite of mine!!!!

September 7th, 2009 at 6:52 pm

Rick Says:

Veno is the real comedian here! He thought that all those losts from Fed last year was all because of his mono. You gotta to do abit of reading there. Like Shaky said, he had mono previously. When someone is having mono. They would have to stay in bed and all that. And blah!Blah! Blah!

Funny, when did I say that?

And I’m not a comedian, but funny, that I am!

September 7th, 2009 at 6:54 pm

Cindy Brady-

You should know that I am not putting you in the group of Fed delusionals. Even though they come up with all kind of excuses for Fed, they still stand by him when it comes to rooting for him when he’s down. You’re more of what I call a mixture of a troll and a bandwagoner. I doubt you would be rooting for him right now had he not won fo and wimby, but yeah, you should work on that keeping proper perspective part. Good for you.

September 7th, 2009 at 6:56 pm

blah:

Yes, Richard definitely choked against Murray at Wimby. He should have won that match hands down, but look at what happenend to Roddick v. Richard — the opposite. These things happen. I still feel Richard has got what it takes to make it back to the top 10 and youth’s in his favor also. After all, he’s been only off the tour for 5 months, and had he kept up with his tennis practice, he’d have been further ahead IMO. That’s where he didn’t make the right decisions, but all’s not lost ….. and only time will tell …..

September 7th, 2009 at 6:57 pm

Yes Von, I will. Interesting to see Kuzy and Novak play….

September 7th, 2009 at 6:57 pm

blah — @ 6;57 pm I was wondering how you’d answer that knowing how you feel about the troll. I’m glad to see you’re steadfast and smart to know when some should be avoided, unlike otherse who keep entertaining her and feeding her fetish/habit. Good for you!
_____________
Veno; are you going to answer my question @ 6:50 pm?

September 7th, 2009 at 7:01 pm

Sorry, I was wrong there, 1 of the match points was a return of Zvona sent long on a Pannetta deep second serve…. Sorry…

September 7th, 2009 at 7:04 pm

Veno: Sorry J just saw your answer. I’m glad you’ll be around as I like to watch Kuznetsova also. The match is on as I write this.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:04 pm

Fed are playing with his old foes these days, instead of the young tigers. They don’t care how many slams that he had won. I would like Fed playing them for a change. His experiences would not get him through everyday.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:04 pm

Von- I hope you are right. In a sense, his mental game is even more frustrating than guys like Safin’s and Nalbandian’s, because they at least express outward anger instead of imploding. Those two guys can just simply not care about some tournaments and can turn it on and come to seriously contend when they made up their mind that they want to win a particular tournament. With Richard, it’s a completely different case… I’ll be glad if he could win even one slam, probably wimbledon, like a past favorite Ivanisevic did. It is looking like a long shot now despite his natural talent, but Goran entered as a wild card and went through Safin, Henman, and Rafter to win it, so who knows.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:10 pm

Keep going Rick, you’re on a roll!

September 7th, 2009 at 7:12 pm

pretty woz in nice outfit but i think kuz is more likely to win this match.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:13 pm

I truly hope Richard will take the adversity of the past months and really click into his tennis game. The guy is so incredibly talented, it’s scary.

I hope your prediction would come true, I’d like to see that!

September 7th, 2009 at 7:15 pm

I say Kuzy takes it in two tight sets

September 7th, 2009 at 7:16 pm

Well, the ladies are ready….what speed in that rally!

September 7th, 2009 at 7:17 pm

agree i am it….cute girl in a nice outfit.

Wozniacki and Cirstea as a double’s team cute as buttons!

September 7th, 2009 at 7:18 pm

heavy hitting from both early on. feisty start. woz takes the break. interesting match.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:19 pm

blah: – I think Richard, as a young kid, was pressured too much by his family and country, and as a result couldn’t flourish as he should have done. Maybe he resented the pressure. Also, I’m sure at times, he took his talent for granted, which detracted from focusing on his tennis and working hard like the other players. Sometimes, it takes a near tragedy and/or a near loss of what we have to put things into perspective. Now that Richard has been given a chance at a second opportunity to reconstruct his career, this will be the time to see his true mettle, say in the next few months, as to whether he appreciates what he has presently, or he just doesn’t care about his tennis future. If it’s in the negative, I wonder what he’ll do?

September 7th, 2009 at 7:19 pm

Well, ever keen to look at the picture in the round (that’s me, folks) I (following Sean) got it totally wrong about Robredo. He HAS in the past given Federer a degree of trouble, and for the first ten games he was highly competitive. But then he let me down…

Soderling has a similar record against Federer, but unlike Robredo, he has real power at his command, a serve that has ALWAYS bothered Federer and, with the help of his new coach, has discovered some steel in his soul. I still can’t imagine him beating Federer, but this time surely we are in for a tight match.

If Verdasco continues in the same vein, he’s got a great chance to get to the semis and may produce a scintillating match with Fed. He definitely has the game to take out a Federer not at his peak, and he has a calm look about him these days; I think his tennis mind is in good shape.

Isner, although no spring chicken, is a comparative novice, so one assumes he’s gonna keep improving. He could be a real force, then, at Wimbie next year – look forward to seeing him on grass.

I agree with Sensational Safin w.r.t. Murray/Fed. At Cincinatti, one had the feeling Murray was gradually gaining the ascendancy, and that it was a good job for Fed he took the tiebreak. Last year’s final, Murray very nearly came back in the second set – he basically donated it, if memory serves me correctly, with some inexplicable errors. Such errors are not likely to be forthcoming in this year’s final, should it be Murray/Fed. Murray, like Verdasco, has matured, he’s ready,and it will be one hell of a battle should they meet.I keep switching as to who I think would win. What about: don’t know?

September 7th, 2009 at 7:20 pm

what sucks is the serve in wta. they barely can hold. that’s what makes it look weak.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:21 pm

blah,

I’m disappointed. I thought your response would have more “pazzaz” than that. You couldn’t come up with something more original than calling me a troll??

I will say this, at least you give me some kind of mental battle. Von’s attempts at insulting me are hardly worth my eye moving across the page to read her incoherent words.

Go Stepanek!!

September 7th, 2009 at 7:22 pm

both woz and kuz are considered as hard hitters but kuz is more consistent and has more variety. only chance woz has is either she plays at the top of her game or kuz has to slip into error-prone mood which can happen if woz puts a little bit more pressure on her.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:30 pm

Von- I think he has a problem similar to that of Agassi’s- The mental part was much more than just tennis. If Richard could get his life sorted out and figures out what he want to do, I believe the hard work/ tennis results will come with it. I want to see him succeed not only as a player, but also as a person. At the present, he still seems like a lost kid to me at times, like how Agassi looked in his early years. I’ll be rooting for him to get back up from his fall.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:31 pm

woz also has to go more corner to corner.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:34 pm

blah: Let’s hope Richard does a 360 degree turnaround like Agassi and becomes a fruitful adult. Here’s hoping …..

September 7th, 2009 at 7:37 pm

if woz goes from corner to corner a little quicker incessantly she has a shot. if she cannot she is going down in straight.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:37 pm

My, my, there’s plenty of negativity in here today…

Robredo came out very strong in the first set and then collapsed. Federer played very well; I can’t see Soderling taking a set in the QF, unless it’s in a tiebreak since those are pretty much crapshoots anyway. Verdasco vs Djoko (assuming he wins, as I imagine he will) will be more interesting…

And I know this was days ago, but, really, Sharapova? 21 double faults? What was the deal with that?

September 7th, 2009 at 7:39 pm

Kuznetsova has too much power for Woz. A heavy weight vs. a lightweight.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:40 pm

4 Unseeded women in the QTRs. Nice.

I’m looking forward to Bondarenko vs Wickmayer.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:41 pm

among other celebrities nicole kidman is in the audience.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:42 pm

Hey Von, did you notice the makeup on Wozzy as Brad was interviewing her in the tunnel? Lots of eye white stuff under the brow and some brown lalala maybe it’s covergirl. hehe

I know Sharpie doesn’t like that girls today wear makeup. But one who I think SHOULD wear makeup due to excessive zits is Kim Clijsters.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:45 pm

kuz is doing exactly the same i suggested for woz to be doing. going corner to corner. that was a quick first set.
don’t see any glimmer of hope for woz. kuz is just too good.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:45 pm

vared: No, I didn’t see the make-up. I guess she’s rivaling Christie Brinkley who’s the Cover Girl model. LOL. On my wide creen when they do a closeup you should see Sharpie’s skin, ouch, not good. I’ll go take a look at my TV to see what Woz’ makeup looks like and report back to you LOL.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:51 pm

Wozzy is concerned with gently patting her face with the towel and avoiding the eye area like JJ. Plus she is wearing Stella McCartney and probably can’t move well in the party dress.
WTA is not so great.

Good for Kuz, I hope she can grab it.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:52 pm

Kuzy going through a bad patch now…

September 7th, 2009 at 7:53 pm

kuz totally demolished woz. made her look like a punching bag. feel sorry for the beauty.
this match will be over in 25-30 min if kuz keeps her form but she just got broken. is this indication of anything? i don’t read much into it yet.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:55 pm

kuz breaks back right away. everything under control.

September 7th, 2009 at 7:58 pm

Will be over soon I’m afraid

September 7th, 2009 at 8:02 pm

we are lucky that we have two heavy hitters instead of two counter-punchers which would have kept the match going on forever. at least the next match will start on time.

September 7th, 2009 at 8:07 pm

Kimo said: „Really, only Nadal has the game to hurt Fed, and it’s gotta be a slow surface too (which means a Nadal win over Fed at Flushing is a virtual impossibility).“

Virtual impossibility? Well, let’s see if you’re THAT sure about that come the Sunday’s final ;-) I can already see you (and other Fed fans) trembling – and frankly, I’m not wondering… I too will be praying for Roger’s win, as there will be absolutely ZERO excuses left for him if he’s to lose to Nadal again… Can you imagine that? The supposed GOAT being owned by one particular player in EACH of the 4 grandslams? I don’t even want to think about that…

„And Murray? No way he can take three sets off of Fed. No freakin way. Their last match at Cincy proved that finally Fed has figured him out.“

Figured him out? LOL!

„His wins over Fed at the end of last year/beginning of this year were due to Fed’s bad back. End of Story.“

Even more LOL!

September 7th, 2009 at 8:07 pm

New here. Almost afraid to post. Some of you are scary. I think Nadal will finally win. Please don’t hate me for saying that. Just my opinion. Thank you.

September 7th, 2009 at 8:08 pm

Rick said about Fed: „He will be playing guys who has pretty good head to head against and those who has never beaten him previously, instead of the players who are ruling the ATP tour currently.“

I agree that this year’s USO draw was pretty kind to Fed, that’s true… But Tsonga, Simon, Wawrinka, or even Murray as the current “rulers” of the ATP tour? LOL! How come they are the rulers when they haven’t been ranked as No. 1 or won a slam yet?!

September 7th, 2009 at 8:13 pm

Oops, forgot it’s women’s tennis….onto a third set, we spoke too soon. Kuzy is fickle yet again…

September 7th, 2009 at 8:16 pm

Looking back at those 6 MPs which Pennetta saved against Zvonareva yesterday, does anyone here know who actually holds the record for most saved MPs (whilst also winning that match)? As far as I remember, Venus Williams once saved 8 MPs against Capriati (guess it was in the Miami final in 2001 or 2002).

September 7th, 2009 at 8:19 pm

if i had my way i would like to see six different finals for different reasons (1) roger-rafa so roger could reduce the h2h (2) roger-murray so murray would have chance to win his 1st major (3) djoko-dePo so one of my faves would be ensured the title (3) soderling-dePo so you could watch the ultimate 2 heavy hitters, both my favs (4) rafa-djoko for their comeback (5) tsonga-verdasco for an ultimate quickness, contrasting style and new title holder, like no. 3 (6) gonzu-soderling for the same reasons as no. 3 and new title holder.
realistically i won’t get all. i would be happy if i get one of them.

September 7th, 2009 at 8:23 pm

though i would like woz winning. for that to happen i’d have to wait another 45 min or so. i am getting impatient so i want this match to be over. i don’t care who wins.

September 7th, 2009 at 8:26 pm

cannot believe it’s going into the 3rd.

September 7th, 2009 at 8:34 pm

here we go again….I swear to God these women read my posts and torture me into sleep deprivation, with all those 3-setters….

September 7th, 2009 at 8:34 pm

Actually, of the top 6, Djoker is the one whom I haven’t watched recently. I really can’t figure out the case with him- Techinically, he has one of the most complete games in top ten- he doesn’t match up poorly with counter punchers, flat hitters, or big servers; he has a wonderful backhand, forehand, has net game, returns well, and can turn defense into offense in a materr of seconds. He has experience winning a slam, he is the only one other than Rafa that have beaten Federer in slams and has consistently challenged Rafa. He has improved his fitness and has matured. Maybe it’s just his serve- it needs to be more consistent and that he needs to be more aggressive. Perhaps mental game? Anyone have an assessment of his game? He really shouldn’t lose to some out of top ten veterans like he’s been doing.

September 7th, 2009 at 8:39 pm

i am it

you’re a hoot! not read such funny posts in a long while. sorry about the 3rd set. I cld have told you, though; that’s pure Kuzzy. Never do anything easy if it can be done the hard way. Am off to bed now. Enjoy the tennis – confidently expect a 5 setter from the Djoker and Step, with plenty of tiebreaks…

September 7th, 2009 at 8:44 pm

Just got home – lucked out and went to restaurant where they showed the last 2 sets of Verd/Isner and first set and a half of Woz/Kuz in HD on 3 flatscreen t.v.’s! Too bad we had to leave. LOL.

Anyhow, good win for Verdasco, I see Woz is down a break in the 3rd. That may be tough to come back from.

September 7th, 2009 at 8:52 pm

Skorocel–“I can already see you (and other Fed fans) trembling – and frankly, I’m not wondering… I too will be praying for Roger’s win, as there will be absolutely ZERO excuses left for him if he’s to lose to Nadal again… Can you imagine that?”

Ugg again with this? You Rafa fans are still expecting Nadal to come out of the bottom half?

Anyways, am I the last person to realize there’s a Wozniak and a Wozniacki on the WTA? Was this planned?

September 7th, 2009 at 8:56 pm

http://communities.canada.com/montrealgazette/blogs/opencourt/archive/2009/09/07/vera-zvonareva-gets-the-oscar-for-best-drama.aspx

September 7th, 2009 at 8:56 pm

hey Jane. Good to read you had fun

September 7th, 2009 at 8:57 pm

won’t be long for Novak now…

And I’m staying up to watch Novak?! Would have never thought that a year ago!!!!!It’s 3 am here and of course Wozzie breaks back…

The women’s tourney has to be a script Serena wrote and let’s her father film at the same time it’s unfolding

September 7th, 2009 at 8:59 pm

Seems an awful lot like Kuzy is going to succumb to the pressure. I see Wozzie taking it. She’s holding easily now….

September 7th, 2009 at 9:01 pm

Cindy it is quite hilarious hearing this from you of all people:

“I can’t stand when people take cheap shots at players by the way they look. They can’t help it.”

Wasn’t it you who said, just the other night, that “mirrors don’t stand a chance” around Safina?

Ha-ha you’re too funny. You must be being sarcastic right? Lemme read the rest of the thread to catch up.

But I do agree with you on Nadal vs/ Murray vis a vis threats for Fed at this Open. So far Murray has looked more threatening. However, it remains difficult for me to count Nadal out of ANYTHING, until the last ball is struck. He’s just such a competitor.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:01 pm

Veno- from your article

“Zvonareva is the girl who cried for two solid minutes at the U.S. Open back in 2004 – after she won a set. And, the same year, in a match in California against the now-retired Anastasia Myskina, cracked her racquet repeatedly, launched balls over the clubhouse, and cried non stop after blowing nine match points in a third-set tiebreak loss that went 17-15.”

Pretty much sums it up, lol. And nine match points is something else. Might be a record.

Also- if I had to watch wta, these two players are not as bad to watch as players like safina and serena and sharapove and ivanovic.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:02 pm

Good job WozniackI! Make it a match girl. (Shaky, they musta planned it; Wozniacki/Wozniack conspiracy to confuse WTA fans further).

September 7th, 2009 at 9:03 pm

Lol darren cahill. how come someone hasn’t hired him as a coach. At least replace mcenroe with him in the booth.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:05 pm

woz turned it around. good for her.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:06 pm

please hold woz here.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:07 pm

kuzy turned it around. good for her

September 7th, 2009 at 9:09 pm

what is it with wta players and their inability to hold serve, ugh.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:09 pm

Blah — the problem is you have to be able to serve to hold serve.

Most of the top girls can’t volley, can’t serve, and many crumble in tight situations mentally – you can be a near-contender with all these faults, so that must be why nobody bothers.

I heard very early in the tourney JMac was having some conversation with some tennis muckety muck about how in some southern california tennis academy they’re having girls from like age 9 throwing footballs to get that overhand zip. Taking them out to a court and just throwing footballs for an hour. Apparently this is working, he says.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:13 pm

wta and holding serve are often antonyms.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:18 pm

blah “Still can’t believe he choked against Murray in 08 wimby, the two careers have gone in completely opposite directions since then.”

Yeah, but he took out Roddick in the exact same fashion the year before so have always viewed Murray’s win as karma. LOL.

Seriously, though, agree with you re: Wimbledon being his best chance to win a slam. Too bad he was so wiped out in that 07 semi as I was really rooting for him there.

—————–

i am it,

Like your imaginary finals scenarios – most of those would be interesting precisely for the reasons you points out.

—————

Thanks Veno – that was fluke, walking into the place with tennis on. Like Fate stepping in on my behalf. Now I am reduced to crappy streaming on my computer. LOL.

I honestly don’t care which lady comes through here – they are both fighting so hard, that I am won over either way. Nice to see such a close one.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:20 pm

besides the serve these two girls are playing good tennis. unfortunately the weak serve spoils the beauty.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:20 pm

Veno: I can’t believe you’re staying up to watch the men’s match. It’ll be around 5:00 am your time when the match finishes WOW. You’re a trooper!
______________
vared: I checked to see Woz’ makeup and fell asleep watching TV. However, the little I saw, yes she is wearing makeup. LOL.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:22 pm

williams sisters’ success could be largely attributed to their big serve. imagine they did not have that.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:23 pm

I don’t necessarily like the uso tie breaker rule, but in this case- thank god for it.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:24 pm

Lol Von, it’s 3.30 am here, doubt Novak will have it wrapped up in under an hour….

September 7th, 2009 at 9:26 pm

4 weeks in the year I go crazy like this….Ozzie Open and US Open every year….French and Wimby are of course in my time zone :)

September 7th, 2009 at 9:27 pm

blah re: final set tiebreaks “but in this case- thank god for it.”

LOL! Kuz is going through the angst isn’t she? I have no idea who’ll win this now.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:28 pm

Serena is laughing her ass off as everyone is spent except her lol….

September 7th, 2009 at 9:30 pm

jane: what angst is Kuznetsova going through?

September 7th, 2009 at 9:30 pm

Neither woman panicking! Good to see…
Unlike some other players who can’t even hit a serve anymore at this stage

September 7th, 2009 at 9:35 pm

Losing her 3rd set lead Von. But she seems to have righted the ship now in the tiebreak. Back to watch…

September 7th, 2009 at 9:35 pm

woz the beauty gets 2 mini breaks but loses both. too much ups and downs. typical of wta.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:35 pm

like in the 2nd set the dane should prevail.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:38 pm

she did it. great. congrats to woz the cutie.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:39 pm

Now finally get to see some real tennis.

Nice that the butterflies had their on court fun…

Come on, bring the guys out!

September 7th, 2009 at 9:40 pm

Oh too bad, kind of a bad overhead miss by Kuzy to finish it, though those must be hard to hit under the lights on match point! Still, tough.

But credit to Woz for her fight-back and composure, holding it together in the tiebreak. This is quite a break-through for her, isn’t it? Has she ever been in a slam quarter-final?

Anyhow, exciting match. Oudin will not have to face another Russian after all.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:41 pm

I checked to see Woz’ makeup and fell asleep watching TV. However, the little I saw, yes she is wearing makeup. LOL.

and a necklace, earrings, bracelets, huge watch, etc.
Poor Kuz. Oh well she got the French. Better luck next time.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:44 pm

Good win for th kid. I always feel a little sad if the shot-maker loses, but the Danish Retriever did very well there. Kuzy was too much up and down and Wozzie played 2 good breakers!

I’d pick Melanie over Wozzie in 3 sets yet again…

September 7th, 2009 at 9:44 pm

Ajde Nole ole ole ole!

September 7th, 2009 at 9:44 pm

They couldn’t find a better photo of Stepanek? He looks like a convicted sex offender there. Or maybe that’s the idea.

Kuznetsova netted too many shots. I wanted to say her UE’s were so high because she was trying to be aggressive but some of those… what the heck was that weird chop backhand in the tiebreak? I couldn’t tell if that was a dropshot or a slice or a cry for help.

God save the women’s game.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:47 pm

Oudin has a better chance of winning vs. Woz than she did against Kuz.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:48 pm

Come on Djoker, thrash the obnoxious worm.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:49 pm

Duro, you still awake? I like the worm but not today.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:51 pm

if the match starts at 10 and lasts for 3 hours plus it will be past 1 in the earliest and interview etc. another 2 hrs or so. what time will the winner go to bed? 4 am? the next day is wasted. in a way he won’t have the day break. that sucks.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:51 pm

and good to see over 3 sets they hit a combined 4 doubles…..

September 7th, 2009 at 9:51 pm

Shaky: “They couldn’t find a better photo of Stepanek? He looks like a convicted sex offender there. Or maybe that’s the idea.”

LOL, considering he’s dating Vaidisova who’s about 12 years his junior, maybe he’s a pedophile? LOL.
_______________
vared: “..and a necklace, earrings, bracelets, huge watch, etc.’

You took inventory there. LOL.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:52 pm

Blah — Do people actually have legit reasons to not root for Stepanek? Give me the info, I’m definitely 50-50 going in.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:52 pm

Hey Jane, Murray was impressive yesterday and today my man was. Time for Djoko to “step” it up.
Let’s see if he can get Step served!

September 7th, 2009 at 9:53 pm

Hey All, I expected to find Djoko winning in the second set and here they haven’t started. LOL I caught the last point of the tiebreaker. These women sure are providing some drama.

Looking forward to the Djoko match. I’m really impressed with him this USO. On the court and off. So I’m definitely pulling for him. He should pull it out.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:53 pm

Shaky: I like to watch Step’s worm dance.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:54 pm

Veno, that’s an amazing stat. It’s true that both those girls had a decent serve tonight.

I hope Djoko can get through this match. I know most think it’ll be no problem for him, but I can’t help being nervous no matter what. He’s just been really tough to predict this year.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:54 pm

Lol, Kuzy converted all 7 breakpoints…Still not enough to win…

September 7th, 2009 at 9:55 pm

I feel like this is a tough one to call also Shaky, and ‘i am it’ put it at 50/50 too, so I guess I am not only one who thinks it could be tough for Djoko.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:56 pm

PMc says Step is not playing as he was in ’07, just like i said.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:56 pm

Shaky- The worm is probably the most obnoxious player on tour. He is guilty of gamesmanship like no other. Once he actually called for an injury time out down matchpoint to Youzhny I think. He yells and distracts his opponent if they are about to smash one of his lobs, he is almost proud of using cheap tactics and shows that to incite his opponents from the first point on.

And seriously, what happened to Djoker’s game.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:57 pm

Have faith Jane. He is much more confident than he has been this summer. And he knows what it takes to get far here, A Final and a SF past 2 years…He knows what it takes to make the final weekend…

I wouldn’t worry too much. Good luck for Novak. Let’s have us a good match!!!

September 7th, 2009 at 9:58 pm

jane: I hope you have an extremely patient and understanding husband, because you’d drive mine absolutely bonkers with your pessimism.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:58 pm

Jane I feel the same about Fed but so far he has come through. When you see guys like Roddick go down it sends uneasy vibes. And we all know any one of these guys can come up against a hot player and lose. But for Djoko I see him differently in this USO. He said something in his presser about having the drive to do well here. That’s something that had been missing a bit before. He’ll do well tonight.

September 7th, 2009 at 9:58 pm

Ok so he’s universally disliked. Calling an injury timeout down matchpoint is pretty funny, are we sure he wasn’t doing it as a silent protest of how badly other players have been abusing the medical timeout rules? I want to believe that was tongue in cheek, since that makes him very sharp and witty, as opposed to a total jerk.

Von –I’m going to need an explanation of the worm step.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:02 pm

J-Mac is saying Djoko is in questionable form, including a not-very dependable serve; he is questioning his ability to “play himself into form” at this slam but Drysdale disagrees and thinks Djok will be fine. I am listening to J-Mac and Drysdale on an atdhe.net feed. Lots of yacking so far… LOL. May have to use mute.

We’ll see… fingers crossed.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:02 pm

Not alone your husband Von!
I have difficulties accepting pessimistic people in my surroundings as they send off so many bad vibes.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:02 pm

Shaky: I like Step’s humor. He does a dance that’s called the worm dance whenever he wins, hence his nick ‘the worm’.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:05 pm

except 1 double fault that was a good start from dj. both held. early sign of a long match. be ready.
worm’s contact fell off?

September 7th, 2009 at 10:05 pm

Hey Scottish – thanks for the encouraging post @ 9:58! Hope you’re right :)

September 7th, 2009 at 10:06 pm

And shaky, if you have seen the worm, you’d know that was no sarcasm. He’s a cheap player, pure and simple.

Djoker seems to have lost steam on his shots and even declined in footwork/athleticism since his win at the ao.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:06 pm

Veno: I can’t handle pessimism. My spouse would tell me after the first time, “you’ve said that already”, which means, don’t say it again. LOL.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:08 pm

Imo pessimistic people have confidence issues and are often afraid to deal with the realities of life’s disappointments.
So in order to artificially soften the effect, were their doom scenario to play out, they put great emphasis on the most negative outcome beforehand to mistakenly prepare themselves to thinking they’ll be able to deal better with possible future disappointment.

Give me an optimist, albeit a realist, anyday in stead :)

To anyone their own!

September 7th, 2009 at 10:09 pm

good pop on dj’s serve. he should be in good shape.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:10 pm

dj should get an early break right here. and he does it.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:11 pm

Oh so you mean he actually does the worm when he wins? That’s awesome!

Does he do a scissor kick and an air guitar like Petr Korda on big points?

September 7th, 2009 at 10:12 pm

Djoko is just keeping the ball in play and is forcing Step to make the error.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:12 pm

beautiful ace down the T on 2nd serve. dj is impressive tonight.
todd martin is taking some notes. i like that.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:13 pm

Major odds on a straighter for Novak…

Let’s see if the worm-meister can increase his speed. He can’t keep up with Novak’s pace so far

September 7th, 2009 at 10:13 pm

Shaky: Not quite a Petr Korda, but you’d see some scissor kicks, so hang around. His worm dance is a kinda brake dance, done on the ground.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:14 pm

Step has 7 UEs already, so it’s going to be that kind of a game.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:15 pm

dj has to keep hitting to step’s forehand. as long as he does that he will be fine.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:16 pm

Djoko looking strong.

Any thoughts on the upcoming matches? Fed should take care of Robin but he’s playing well so he could push Fed.

Tsonga/Gonzalez is a tough call. Nadal is on a roll and should beat Monfils, can’t see JMDP having much trouble with Ferrero and Murray will roll over Cilic.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:17 pm

Vared, not sleeping at all and I’m at work 3 and a half hours from now. When it comes to love no price is too high…

September 7th, 2009 at 10:17 pm

Von, I disagree. I suspect Oudin would have beaten Kuznetsova, having already trashed three taller Russian baseliners by losing the first set handily, squeaking through the second, and taking advantage of their inability to hold serve in the third. She knows how to play that kind of player.

Wozniacki and Oudin have similar games: both are defensive grinders who like to counterpunch. Oudin had better court coverage than her previous opponents; that won’t be the case with Wozniacki. She also took advantage of her opponents’ inability to handle slices and changes of pace; again, not the case with Wozniacki. She won’t be able to use the same gameplan she used against her last few opponents.

And Wozniacki has the experience of having won tour titles, and is significantly fresher than Oudin because she hasn’t played as much tennis.

I think it will be a very long and difficult match, because neither girl has ever been this far in a major and both of them really want to go further. I’m picking Oudin just because she’s got the crowd support and she has even less pressure on her than Wozniacki does, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see Wozniacki squeaking through either.

Of course, I expect Serena to destroy whoever makes it through to the final. She A) knows how to hold serve and B) has enough game to handle the counterpunchers and C) is wired to win. She just isn’t gonna give up until she has her hands on that trophy.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:19 pm

Veno “have confidence issues and are often afraid to deal with the realities of life’s disappointments.”

LOL – well I may indeed have confidence issues, but let me tell you I have dealt with plenty of life’s disappointments, and they didn’t include a tennis player losing a match. Much more serious stuff.

But sure – you’re right on some level, that if one expects the worse then if it doesn’t happen it’s relieving, not that it’s a great way to go through life.

My mom was a very nervous nurse and I think a little rubbed off lol.

Von – my hubby is a doll and he doesn’t worry about tennis much (watches semis and finals only) so no probs there.

————

As for the match – Can anyone tell me a decent stream? I’ve lost mine twice already. I don’t even know the score at the moment as my laptop keeps crapping out.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:20 pm

Scottish: Tsonga will beat Gonzo; Nadal is questionable; and both Murray and DelPotro don’t have any competition to worry about.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:20 pm

with double breaks, the set will go to dj painlessly.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:20 pm

Upcoming matches-

Tsonga and Gonzo is going to be a fun one. power against power. Tsonga has more talent but Gonzo has more experience, and has been doing well this year. I hope Tsonga comes through but Gonzo is probably going to win. He held 90% of his service games this year coming in.

I actually think Monfils has a good chance to upset Nadal. JmDp is actually pretty consistent when facing weaker opponents in slams so he’ll take it, and Murray will take apart Cilic. and Fed over Soderling, of course.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:21 pm

dj wins the set 6-1.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:21 pm

and D) she hasn’t even broke a sweat in 4 matches…

September 7th, 2009 at 10:23 pm

I hope Djoker and Verdasco don’t tire each other out before facing Fed. Unless Djokovic is in top form, it’s probably going to be a 5 set grinder.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:24 pm

ESPN2 is showing the match.

Idk why people thought Djokovic would lose. He played really well in the first 2 rounds. He was a little off against Witten but I think more of that had to do with the fact that he had never seen Witten play and stuff life that. But he knows Stepanek’s game fairly well. I don’t see the issue.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:24 pm

To explain some more, it’s 4:25 in the morning here… Hi Jane. If Nole is playing a 946 ranked player in the world you would say the chances are 50:50. Janie, Janie.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:24 pm

“Tsonga/Gonzalez is a tough call.” Scottish I can’t figure who’ll win this one either, but am leaning towards Tsonga, who has straight-setted everyone so far. I also wonder if Monfils will trouble Rafa considering Rafa’s injury.

—————-

I’ve got the scoreboard but no stream – wow! Looks like it was a good first set for Djoko?

Can anyone tell me if it was his good play or just poor play by Step, or a combo. Am still looking for a stream…onto justin now.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:26 pm

Hi Duro “If Nole is playing a 946 ranked player in the world you would say the chances are 50:50.”

No, but let’s face it, versus Witten, ranked #276, his chances were only about 55/45. :)

September 7th, 2009 at 10:27 pm

Jane- kind of a combo, but Djokovic’s doing good.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:27 pm

jane: “Von – my hubby is a doll and he doesn’t worry about tennis much (watches semis and finals only) so no probs there …”

I’m not talking about watching tennis matches, but don’t worry about it.
_______________
Steve: I forgot how much tennis Oudin played, and you’re right that Wozniacki has the experience of winning titles. So their match will probably favour Woz more than Oudin energy and experience wise. I’m hoping Oudin will win their match.

I agree, Serena will tear up either of them — they’re like a light snack for her.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:28 pm

Not specifying it to you Jane, just my general opinion and experience.

Of course everyone is different, but I can say this, if I wasn’t an upbeat bloke and an optimist pur sang I would not have been here, considering where I’m coming from.

So I see optimism as one of the greatest gifts a person can have. And it rubs off on those around you. As does pessimism.

Optimists will attract and draw optimists, pessimists attract pessimists enforcing their respective auras.

I know you sarcastically call yourself a pessimist and I by no means can objectively determine you being one. You know yourself and you alone can be the judge of that.

Moving along….

September 7th, 2009 at 10:30 pm

Have found a stream at justin J-Mac says, “Stepanek starting to find his game”.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:31 pm

Jane try this

http://atdhe.net/8394/watch-us-open-djokovic-vs-stepanek

September 7th, 2009 at 10:31 pm

stats so far. dj 8-2 winners. ues 7-11. 1st serve% 68-70. 80-56% 1st serve win. winners 9-3 including serve.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:33 pm

Von Says: “I agree, Serena will tear up either of them — they’re like a light snack for her.”

Lol. I feel bad for those poor girls then.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:33 pm

i am it said: „williams sisters’ success could be largely attributed to their big serve. imagine they did not have that.“

I would rather say „imagine they did not have that … what contributed to their big serve“ ;-) Now insert your favourite word here :-) LOL!

September 7th, 2009 at 10:34 pm

I’ve been impressed with Tsonga this summer. Of course coming back to beat Fed was no small feat. I just like his attitude overall. I don’t know much about Gonzalez though.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:34 pm

Thanks blah for the feedback on the match.

Veno, thanks for your opinion @ 10:30 – makes sense. Probably there’s a realist in me somewhere, given my academic side.

Anyhow, as I can finally watch a stream – will do so and leave you folks to enjoy.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:34 pm

I give it 60%-40% to Oudin.
Tonight Woz was the underdog and lesser tennis player. Facing Oudin she’ll be the favourite and Oudin the underdog. Oudin is on a cloud, the New Yorkers will go crazy for her. She is as energetic as Rafa is on court and loves a dog fight.

Woz won’t be the counterpuncher in her match with Oudin. The little tiger has too much variety and is too fast. It will be interesting to see how Woz will deal with sudden pressure. Oudin will have no problems as she feels no pressure and is mentally growing stronger the longer the tourney goes…

September 7th, 2009 at 10:35 pm

J-Mac says something is wrong with Stepanek’s eye?

September 7th, 2009 at 10:36 pm

dj is playing a spirited match. better score in all depts. his passing shots and movement have been impressive. takes break in the 2nd set. everything under control. early projection dj wins in straight.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:37 pm

Djoko-Worm is hardly going to be a match.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:38 pm

Usually anytime Step plays I like him to win. When he gets a GF they quit playing well. Vaidisova and Hingis.

Interesting what JMac said about Gulbis,that when he was in the tennis academy he didn’t like to do his “work.” I really like Ernests too and wish he would come back.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:38 pm

step’s contact fell early in the 1st set and he fixed it. j-mac is loony on occasions.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:39 pm

Stepanek better get the Visine quick because he is getting his ass kicked.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:39 pm

Yes, Jane, but you didn’t know that before the match, right? That’s what I’m talking about.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:39 pm

Maybe Clister (spelling?) can do something and cause some trouble for Serena. Unlikely but if she can play like that first set against Venus she has a chance.

Djokovic is taking care of business, should be on to face Verdasco soon.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:39 pm

blah: You mentioned Djoko and Verdasco wearing down each other, and I’m going to say I doubt it, because Verdasco is hurting with his back and he’s played a lot of tennis in New haven and now the USO, so I think Djoko will have the advantage with respect to stamina and most probably will win.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:42 pm

with that break dj will take care of 2nd set. double breaks in both sets.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:43 pm

Hmmm, for the quarterfinal matches I don’t think everything will go like it looks on paper…

Nadal-Monfils for some reason intrigues me…(Monfils in 5)
Gonzo-Tsonga…..need I say more? (Tsonga in 4)
Fed-Soderling: Fed needs to be sharp. Robin can be dangerous, but somehow Fed never slips up against these dangerous big hitters. (Fed in 4)
Djokovic-Verdasco: This is going to be a really tough match for Djokovic. (Novak in 5)

September 7th, 2009 at 10:44 pm

Step is like a blind man playing a man with two good eyes. Not a very excikting match.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:44 pm

Vared you asked earlier about me being Scottish and being a fan of Murray. The answer is that I was born in Scotland but moved to Canada as a kid so I consider Canada my home. I still have a lot of Scottish heritage though. As for Murray he is probably my least fav player and I would find it tough to ever cheer for him.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:45 pm

Step seems flat-footed. But Djoko’s been using the opportunity as well. Hmmmm. This is not the Step who faced Kohls, and hit 50 winners and won 64% of his 61 net approaches.

Got a break there though.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:47 pm

Vonnie, I’m going to bed as there’s no excitement to be expected from this match…Until tomorrow you big optimist you…..:)

The rest of you all good night, thanks for all the updates, views and opinions! Love the variety here.

Enjoy the match!

September 7th, 2009 at 10:48 pm

These commentators are crazy. If they admit something’s wrong with a player’s eye, do they expect him to see the ball?

September 7th, 2009 at 10:48 pm

step has stepped up courtesy to dj’s couple of poor serve and one break gone but he is still a up a break.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:48 pm

Veno: Have nice night and I’m off to watch my TV. I stayed because you said you’d do so earlier but like you, I find this match boring.

Goodnight all and enjoy the match!

September 7th, 2009 at 10:51 pm

dj missed the opportunity to break back right away and maintain the double break. no biggie.

September 7th, 2009 at 10:54 pm

At Cinci, this blog predicted Fed would lose to Djoko in the final. Fed drilled him instead. And again, the naysayers came out, predicting doom for Fed at the hands of (of all players) Tommy Robredo? And Fed dusts him.

Give the man some credit. The constant picking against him is apparently not a wise move. At least wait til he’s playing Rafa or someone who might actually stand a decent chance of beating him.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:00 pm

dj is playing clean match. more winners than errors.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:01 pm

This is no match. Good for Djoko. I’m off and looking forward to some great matches tomorrow.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:02 pm

There’s plenty of tennis to still be played, but I have a feeling Djokovic is gonna take out Federer in the semis. Not a knock at Federer or some sort of in depth prediction about his form or anything, just a feeling.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:03 pm

the 2nd set goes dj. right on time. a little over an hour.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:03 pm

Good long rally at the end of the first game, third set.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:10 pm

shaky start in the 3rd but dj holds. that’s all he needs.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:10 pm

i like his movement and composure tonight. similar to his match against rafa at cincy.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:11 pm

Step coming around?

September 7th, 2009 at 11:13 pm

dj just squandered 2 break chances there. he cannot afford to do that against tougher opponents.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:14 pm

Come on that was funny! You guys didn’t like him prancing around after that drop shot and then running and going between the legs as to mock djokovic when he won the game?

Hey he’s down two sets, who’s joining me on the stepanek comeback bandwagon? Sign up!

September 7th, 2009 at 11:14 pm

I want Djoko to win, but Step is a character whose worm-dance is something to behold. And his s&v when clicking (like against Kohls last round) is also fun to watch.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:16 pm

dj is being a little reckless here. step is not coming around as long as dj stays focused.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:17 pm

This is the Djokovic I like to see. If he can play like this, the only thing stopping him from going far or even winning the whole thing is himself. He’s just gotta keep his composure against the top players and in the big matches. But he looks to be playing well and aggressive.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:19 pm

dj’s shots are flying. he’s been finding his range.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:19 pm

Djok not coming in a lot but nice to see him more successful than not when he does.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:23 pm

how could you not see that ball coming in?

September 7th, 2009 at 11:23 pm

amazing thing about dj tonight is he’s been able to hit his shots wherever he wants. he has hardly missed any.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:26 pm

did he hurt himself there on the slide? poor dj.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:27 pm

step irritates dj with those funky moves.
how do you like those clinical passing shots?

September 7th, 2009 at 11:29 pm

Scottish, you probably like Nestor? There’s some Scots in my family way back too. I think an area near Glasgow.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:29 pm

how do you like that jagged-up response from dj, step?

September 7th, 2009 at 11:32 pm

if they both make it, tsonga is playing on fire and i see him beating nadal.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:33 pm

i am it — that novak celebration looked very goofy in slow-mo. Not many celebrations look good in slow-mo, but that one definitely didn’t.

It’s been driving me crazy trying to figure out who Stepanek reminds me of… my friend just told me: he’s a dead ringer for Gollum from Lord of the Rings.

SMEAGEL!

September 7th, 2009 at 11:34 pm

I like the clinical passing shots. More please. :) Geezz this match may even convert me to an optimist. LOL.

Vared, Scottish – my hubby’s family are also Scots who came to Canada. Paisley I think was the name of the hometown.

Unlike you two, though, I like Murray. Hope he does well tomorrow.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:35 pm

2 bad mishits into the net from dj. very uncharacteristic of him. but he found a way to hold.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:36 pm

Djokovic… seriously…what an unlikeable dude.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:37 pm

I see Vaidasova is in Step’s box. Maybe she tires him out? Or too many worms? I dunno. But this is just NOT the Stepa who played Kohls and kicked butt, hitting winner after winner. Maybe he was just zoning that match. It does happen.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:39 pm

if dj plays like this, freely, confident, finds this kind of range, and serves well, i see him in the semi. watch out, roger.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:40 pm

once again 0-30 down?

September 7th, 2009 at 11:43 pm

congrats to dj. he played a great match. he will get enough rest for the next.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:45 pm

Invariably lately, whenever Novak is trying to serve out a match, and sometimes a set, he hits a double. What’s up with that? I wish he’s stop it.

But having said that – a v. good match from him, clean and focused. Razor sharp on most ground strokes and some good play at net too. But again, it’s tough to judge since Stepa was not playin well and didn’t give him a big test. For e.g., nothing like Verdasco got from Isner or Haas. Verdasco and Djoko should be a much more exciting and tight match. I am looking forward to it!

September 7th, 2009 at 11:46 pm

in 1 hr. 45 min. finishes before midnight. did not have to sweat at all. that should save some energy. 29-19 winners and 21-28 ues. a clean match for dj.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:48 pm

jane:

“But again, it’s tough to judge since Stepa was not playin well and didn’t give him a big test.”

I suppose you’ve forgotten that something is wrong with Step’s eye.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:49 pm

I can’t believe it – Djok getting J-Mac to come down and hit with him.:)

September 7th, 2009 at 11:50 pm

Von – someone above said Step just lost his contact in the first set but fixed it. I dunno though.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:50 pm

Lol Novak.

September 7th, 2009 at 11:51 pm

:-)))!!! My man!
Nacho, Who’s unlikeable?

September 7th, 2009 at 11:56 pm

THAT WAS AWESOME!!!!!

Well I said it last year that once Federer breaks 14, I’ll be rooting for Djoker. Well, let’s go Djokovic!!!

September 7th, 2009 at 11:57 pm

Sensationalsafin, What’s awesome? Something after match?

September 8th, 2009 at 12:09 am

Nacho, your name is unlikeable, your face (SA face) is unlikeable, your brain is unlikeable, so go and hit the wall to fix it. Lousy, miserable hater. Get the f out of here and go to support your favs, don’t defile the thread with your ugliness and hatred here.

September 8th, 2009 at 12:15 am

Duro did you not see J-Mac and Djoko fooling around on the court after the match, ribbing each other and hitting a few balls? Djok asked Mac to come down from the booth and he agreed. Then he did a mini J-Mac routine and then J-Mac imitated him by bouncing and bouncing etc and so on. It was amusing, imo, and the crowd seemed to enjoy it after a straight setter that didn’t have a lot of drama.

Anyway – will be very busy this week during the days but hope to be able to watch a bit at work, and maybe post occasionally in evenings.

In the meantime, hope everyone enjoys the tennis. There will be lots of great matches tomorrow I suspect.

Cheers.

September 8th, 2009 at 12:17 am

Duro, Novak and McEnroe put on a show for the crowd. Novak did an imitation of Mac and Mac did one of Novak. They hit a few balls. Todd Martin was introduced as a new coach. Too funny.

September 8th, 2009 at 12:18 am

Maybe one of us can find it on youtube soon and you will see it Duro.
Goodnight

September 8th, 2009 at 12:20 am

Great! Jane and Vared, thanks, I didn’t have a chance to see it because my tv station stopped the covering immediately after the match. You two are really devoted fans. I appreciate your support for Novak and tennis itself. See you all around. There’s a plenty of excitement coming these days. Hope to enjoy it. I’m expecting Novak in the semis. After that, who knows… Good night.

September 8th, 2009 at 12:25 am

from AP, “Stepanek briefly stepped off court to replace a displaced contact lens.”
the contact lens did not fall off his eyes. he felt itchy briefly at the end of the first game (or 3rd?) in the 1st set and he asked the umpire if he could go fix it. with the approval he ran toward the bathroom but came back in a jiffy. my guess is he fixed it before reaching the bathroom so he came back right away. everything was fine as he reported.

September 8th, 2009 at 1:38 am

i am it: just loved your posts, so glad I’m just reading about THAT match, rather than actually watching it!
veno: alright 4 u, u support a player who wins everything. jane and I support players who have thrilled and disappointed, over the years, in equal measure! It’s been a roller coaster ride man! No wonder we can be pessimistic at times.

September 8th, 2009 at 3:39 am

Cindy-Brady@3:08 says:

“No disrespect to Serena but she seems to be a selfish type player who uses tennis for her other pursuits and doesn’t give back much. Oudin is just what woman’s tennis needs. A young All American looking pretty girl to carry the banner of woman’s tennis…..”

Yet here I was thinking that Venus & Serena are Americans! I must be fooled-what nationality do they belong to? Exactly how does an ‘all-american’ person look like?

Obviously, if Oudin continues playing this way for the future years, it’s a great addition to American women’s tennis; however, statements like these highlight the some of the reasons why other nationalities ‘hate’ Americans-despite it’s immense goodwill. It comes across in a very bad-light. The digs at the Williams sisters receive, whether subtle or overt, conscious or unconsciously are quite mind-boggling.

Maybe it’s something American’s say to each other on a daily basis & is no big deal, but to me, it’s just comes across as one step forward, & two backwards in social relations….very self-defeating of the great nation.

No wonder Serena won’t give back to tennis (if that’s true at all ‘coz I know for a fact that they practise regularly with up-coming kids!.) Besides her Serena Williams Secondary School in Matooni, Kenya & other charitable organisations are doing quite well. There’s no rule that she has to give back to american tennis, afterall, USTA didn’t support them as up-coming kids. it has all been through their sole family effort. She’s giving back to other areas in life which she believes she can assist more.

>>Anyhow, Oudin continues her wonderful run! her positive attitude is a breathe of fresh air.

September 8th, 2009 at 9:05 am

hey margot – just before I go off to work, wanted to wish Murray luck today. I think he should be fine. Cilic has been off and on at this event, and more off than anything all summer, so based on Andy’s stellar form last match, I think he should win. Hope you get to watch it! :)

September 8th, 2009 at 9:51 am

for those who missed djoko-jmac post-match fun last night http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8gbgse0WsY

September 8th, 2009 at 10:22 am

Great video of Djokovic. Nice to see him having fun as his old self as opposed to the new all-serious man. great personality-hope to see more impersonations, especially of current players!

September 8th, 2009 at 11:22 am

Duro hope you like the video.

been there,
The imitation target was not a current pro. Mac in fact seemed to think that Djokovic should continue with these and said so during the commentating. But Federer objects so I don’t think he will.

September 8th, 2009 at 12:32 pm

http://timesonline.typepad.com/rafael_nadal/2009/09/i-dont-like-playi…

Apparently, Rafa asked for the match to be moved earlier.

September 8th, 2009 at 12:32 pm

Jane,

If you at-all come back to this thread, this is specially for you.

Nothing tennis-related, but I read some interesting comments here regarding pessimism & optimism on this thread. I was catching up with my daily world news today when I incidentally came across this article & wondered why it was a déjà vu read. I come to comment on tennis-x & I’m like ah, there it is. imo, blind optimism is just as bad, if not worse that pessimism…acceptance of all situations is the key.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/russell-bishop/why-positive-thinking-jus_b_278572.html

Hope you enjoy the read.

September 8th, 2009 at 12:44 pm

been there, done that

I agree with you that blind optimism gets you nowhere either. One has to be realistic about one’s own capabilities and one has to also be optimistic in a pro-active way.

Hope you don’t take Russell Bishop’s article too serious. Although there is truth in what he says, it’s just a compilation of fortune cookie wisdom backed up by his professional experience working with people overcoming adversity.

The man makes a living advising and coaching others what they need to do and how they should do it from a theoratical base.

I can tell you, there’s nothing easier than to retrieve information, analyse it, make general inference from it and use that as a benchmark to “enlighten” the less informed.

I see numerous people like this in my workplace and the corporate world and there are few who really are able to truly contribute to improvement. Why? because they only lay the path for others, they never have to walk it themselves.

Getting paid amazing amounts of money for exactly what? They are risk-averse, don’t face deadlines, are externally detached(no emplyess) and in most cases have no idea of office and company dynamics.
There is absolutely nothing new, fresh or insightful about what he’s writing there.

September 8th, 2009 at 1:53 pm

*(no employees)

September 8th, 2009 at 1:55 pm

been there, done that – a quick thanks! for thinking of my thinking processes. lol. printed it and will read later. ciao for now…

September 8th, 2009 at 1:57 pm

been there:

I didn’t read your article, but from your comment I disagree that ‘acceptance in all situations is the key’. I prefer to say moderation in all situations is the key, but not blind acceptance. For example, there’s acceptance in situations that we cannot change and I agree with that, but that decision should only be reached after one has confronted a situation and has explored every other worthwhile and viable alternative available to them, and have come up empty-handed = acceptance.

On the other hand to just blindly accept a situation as it is, without exploring one’s options is defeatism, and in some respects laziness, whereby a person refuses to do the necessary leg work and/or put in the time to seek a remedy and/or resolution of the problem whether real or perceived, before them. Some refuse to do the work and seek the easy way out by using ‘acceptance’ as a shield, and that’s because of their laziness to seek every viable alternative and/or option available.

To reiterate, all things in moderation and I’d rather surround myself with those who are blindly optimistic than pessimistic. Optimistic people are upbeat, exude energetic and positive vibes, and see the glass as half full. Contrasted to that, pessimistic people see the glass as half empty. Optimistic people build up those around them, and pessimistic drag them down, and that’s the big difference between the two. The deep underlying and prevailing emotion of the pessimist is to unconsciously seek attention. They do this by playing down their possibilities and/or chances to those who they know would listen and reassure them that their fears are unfounded and the disaster as the pessimist perceives it to be, wouldn’t happen. However, the pessimist, somewhere deep down inside is aware that their fears are magnified, and the possibility of the impending disaster actually transpiring is about 0 to 25%, but their desperate need for attention is so over-powering that they’ll continue and pursue the negative vein to satisfy their craving, which is akin to an unconscious addiction for attention.

I’d rather surround myself with blind optimists than pessimists. However, to each his own, and my own is an optimist.

September 8th, 2009 at 2:08 pm

Veno says: “….Hope you don’t take Russell Bishop’s article too serious….”

You really love this ‘serious’ word. No, I don’t take anything in life ‘seriously’ unless it’s political in nature….why? because politics directly affects my life. And by political I mean things like election violence, wars, recession etc. Everything else, is read & I analyse it and decide to take it as necessary, either agree, or disagree or take whatever it is that I can from it….which is the case with the article. Similarly as much as I adore/admire (enter all good superlatives here) someone like oprah & the current US president, & they are the most optimistic people in public life (imo), I still have to decide what to take from them.

Otherwise, agreed on all points & completely understood & great advise there.

Von says: “…that ‘acceptance in all situations is the key’. I prefer to say moderation in all situations is the key, but not blind acceptance…”

I think we’re in agreement here. By ‘acceptance’, as per the article, all I mean is the key to any adversity (or even success for that matter)is to accept it first, then decide how to move on from there. Obviously, accepting something bad & not doing something to positively enhance oneself is a no, no for me (& most people I suppose).

>>Back to tennis, enjoy can’t wait for the tour to be back in Europe where europeans, africans, mid-easterns & a few asian fans can cope better with the timing. Wonder how American & Australian tennis-fans cope the rest of the year-can no longer keep my eyes open from late-afternoon matches!

September 8th, 2009 at 3:01 pm

been there:

To reiterate, I don’t like pessimists — they wear me down, I lose patience and try to avoid them like the plague. I view them as attention seekers and that’s a deep subject (and one that would be great for a psych discussion but not here) that goes back to childhood where they probably had to compete for attention in a family atmosphere. Those types of situations forces an individual to get attention any which way they can; MO = attention.

“….they are the most optimistic people in public life (imo), I still have to decide what to take from them.”

Sometimes, discretion is the better part of valour, and again, we are the captain of our own destiny.

September 8th, 2009 at 3:15 pm

Murry may yet come back in this match, but it’s so interesting when folks write things like:

“… and both Murray and DelPotro don’t have any competition to worry about.”

At this stage and in professional tennis – all players need to ‘worry about’ everybody.

September 8th, 2009 at 3:58 pm

“..At this stage and in professional tennis – all players need to ‘worry about’ everybody…”

I agree with this statement. Everyone has to watch their back. And for all the PC ‘I’m just worrying about guys in my section…blablabla’ answers, I’m almost certain that there have been a few cheers in the locker room when Roddick & now Murray departed. I was surprised at Fed’s candour when he admitted that ‘obviously, it makes a difference…’ but still added the PC ‘I still need to get to the finals’@FO with regards to Nadal’s shock upset.

So the top6 is now reduced to4, which is looking normal, ‘coz with the exception of Delp, all the three other suspects are still in. The hunt continues…..

September 8th, 2009 at 4:56 pm

Murray in this year’s slams – R16, Q, S, R16. So much for all the hype about this foul mouthed Scot.

Murray is too overrated. He is a defensive player, will always be a defensive player. Even Djokovic will end up with more slams than Murray.

September 8th, 2009 at 5:03 pm

Even Djokovic is Q, R32, Q, and now Q already. Nothing to speak about, unless his wins the US Open. So much for the hype about these young guys.

And look at what the 28 year old guy has done this year (Federer), and has been doing since 2004….. F, W, W, and now Q already.

Where is the next big champion after Federer? Nadal is still there, but his health is a question mark, and he is already past 23. Cilic? Del Potro? Perhaps. Djokovic may be. Murray unlikely. Roddick is over the hill. Tsonga and Monfils have too many injury issues.

I am sure someone new will step up one of these years….

September 8th, 2009 at 5:07 pm

Veno says: “There is absolutely nothing new, fresh or insightful about what he’s writing there.”

No one said it was my old friend. I was simply sharing it with Jane. Ultimately, nothing is new under the sun…..no new ideas at all, everything is circular. I can say the same for the articles or book suggestions you’ve posted on this website, & of thousands of articles I’ve read elsewhere. Nothing is new. Again, maybe I gleemed something from it & you didn’t and maybe others will. :)? It’s all a matter of opinions.

Also, it may be that I was just perhaps sharing it with Jane to show her that despite her self-described pessimism, she can still try to take things in a positive manner as per the article. Nothing has to be new for it to be helpful-sometimes people just need to be reminded. This was not directed to either you or veno. I didn’t even know that you had commented on this topic, because as I said, it’s just an article I bumped into & it reminded me of something I read recently, only to realise it on tennis-x! It’s only after reading your reply that I’ve gone back to see who’d commented what.It wasn’t an attack (as you usually put it…though this is impossible considering I don’t know you :)) on either you or Von, because quite frankly, with so many people posting, & with so many threads running, not to mention the different websites I log into, I can barely remember who’s posted what as soon as I switch off my computer. So it wasn’t for you…just a positive thinking approach to Jane’s self described ‘pessimism’. who knows maybe she’s not as pessimistic as she describes herself. Pessimism & optimism are opionated. I might meet Jane 7 think she’s not as pessimistic, or I might meet you or von & think, hey, she/he is so pessimistic. All a matter of opinions. None is wrong. None is correct. it’s just the way it is.

It’s just a shared article! Nothing more. it’s up to whoever to take whatever he/she wants from it.

P/S: Nothing is serious, not even this post. :)

September 8th, 2009 at 5:22 pm