Flaky Federer Wins, Sets Up Berdych Showdown Tuesday in Miami; Nadal, Roddick Return

by Sean Randall | March 30th, 2010, 12:37 am
  • 384 Comments

It wasn’t pretty but Roger Federer advanced in two tiebreakers beating a pesky Florent Serrra 7-6, 7-6 at the Sony Ericsson Open in Miami on Monday. The win puts Federer against Tomas Berdych in a much anticipated Sweet 16 showdown. ADHEREL

I know many of you suggested Roger’s run would end at hands of the giant killer Berdych. But I disagree. At 6-foot-4 Berdych is a giant, but is he a killer? About the only things he kills are his chances and his fans when he gets into these big matches. The guy has plenty of weapons and a lot of talent but he just never seems to come through.

I can count on one hand the number of times the Big Bird has stepped up on the major stage to win a match – the Athens Olympics comes to mind. But otherwise, he’s had numerous near misses like the Rafael Nadal loss a couple weeks ago and his choke job at the Australian Open in 2009 to the Swiss.


Even Federer called out Berdych after his match today in an on-court interview saying he the Czech had underachieved to a degree after that Olympic win – Tomas, are you listening, now is your time, prove us wrong!

And while Federer hasn’t looked great– he did hit some spectacular shots today, but he blew a two break lead at 4-1 in the second set – I think Berdych is about to suffer another near miss! Federer has won eight straight over Berdych since that windy Athens loss. They’ll play late Tuesday night at 9pm when the wind shouldn’t be a much of a factor as it is during the day.

“Sure, I still have to tidy up my game a bit, you know, having had one break up in the first and two breaks up in the second, it’s normally something that doesn’t get away from me,” said Federer who had a nice pre-match on-court photo with socialite Kim Kardashian. “But I thought he came up with some good stuff, and that made it difficult for me, you know, to close it out. That’s why I’m happy to still be through.”

Tomorrow’s loaded eight-match fourth round schedule kicks off with JW Tsonga and Juan Carlos Ferrero. If Tsonga plays his game he should be able to overpower the veteran Ferrero. Andy Roddick meets Ben Becker in a straight forward match for the American. Mardy Fish and Mikhail Youzhny tangle. I like the Russian there.

Nadal meets his countryman David Ferrer. If Nadal’s on he’ll win. If he starts making tons of errors he’ll lose. I don’t think Ferrer can hit him off the court but he can trouble Rafa. Another Spaniard, Nicolas Almagro battles Tomasz Bellucci. I think I’ll go with Spain in that one, as well!

And in two of the better matches Fernando Verdasco faces Marin Cilic and Fernando Gonzalez rides his emotions against the hot Robin Soderling. Unfortunately for the Fighting Fernandos, I think they both come up short on Tuesday.

By the way, Gonzo will join Gustavo Kuerten, Jim Courier and Roddick for a special “Champions for Chile” exhibition on Saturday.

The women’s quarterfinals also get underway. Venus Williams, who narrowly escaped the clutches of Daniela Hantuchova (she 10-0 now against Dani), faces A-Rad Aggie Radwanska. In the night quarter Marion Bartoli squares off against Yanina Wickmayer.

On Wednesday it’s Justine Henin v. Caroline Wozniacki and Kim Clijsters v. Sam Stosur.


You Might Like:
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Djokovic Hits 24; Nadal, Federer Near SF Collision at Miami Tennis Masters, Will They Get There?
Red-Hot Roddick Faces Destiny’s Child Berdcyh for Miami Title
Murray Secures Semifinal; Nadal, Djokovic Look to Join

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384 Comments for Flaky Federer Wins, Sets Up Berdych Showdown Tuesday in Miami; Nadal, Roddick Return

jane Says:

“Gonzo will join Gustavo Kuerten, Jim Courier and Roddick for a special “Champions for Chile” exhibition on Saturday.” Cool! I’d like to see some of this, hope it’s televised or on streaming.

Amazing how well Spain is doing in Miami – 6 in the final 16! And it isn’t even clay yet. Whatup? : ) I think it was Robredo and Almagro who took out Nesty and Z in doubles too. Interesting.

Any word on how the court is playing in Miami?

March 30th, 2010 at 1:27 am


rafa Says:

Federer is playing so badly right now, even a half decent Berdych will win this match in two easy sets.

March 30th, 2010 at 3:29 am


madmax Says:

what match have you been watching rafa? you clearly dont understand how federer plays. He is always like this in the early rounds and let’s be honest. Everybody out there is after his scalp, as long as he keeps his mental strength in tact and remembers what he can produce at the pivotal points, there is no reason why he should not progress.

Roger knows what he has to do to beat berdych. When was the last time Berdy beat a top ten player? federer will be on his guard, as he always is.

C’moon federer!

rafa, did you see some of the sublime shotmaking federer made yesterday? Not consistent, I agree, but still time to improve on yeesterday’s match.

March 30th, 2010 at 6:42 am


Ben Pronin Says:

“He is always like this in the early rounds”

Always like what, exactly? Fed’s “struggles” in early rounds are so overhyped. Sure, sometimes he’s a little rusty, but he’s had a lot more close encounters in the latter stages of tournaments than the early ones. And until Murray beat him in the first round of Dubai back in 08 he hadn’t lost in the first round in almost 4 years. As for the moment, Federer’s rarely ever dropped leads like that against low-tier players, early rounds or not.

However, I agree with Sean in that Berdych doesn’t have what it takes, mentally, to pull the upset. AO 09 is a good example but so is their 08 AO match where Berdych had numerous chances to win a couple of sets but blew them all and lost in straight. Berdych is an enigma with no fuel. A couple of out-of-this-world shots from Federer and Berdych will be putting his head down in defeat.

March 30th, 2010 at 8:36 am


Polo Says:

Usually, or at least as far as I have observed, Federer plays much better after coming through a tough match. He is very good at assessing his game and tries to rectify the problems from a poorly played match. Therefore, the next player often faces a more determined and better tweaked Federer. Berdych, for all his vaunted talent, has never been able to cope well in any match that requires sustained mental challenge. It can happen but the odds are against him beating Federer.

March 30th, 2010 at 8:50 am


Polo Says:

By the way Rafa, even a fully decent Berdych had not yet beaten Federer. It can happen but the odds are against it.

March 30th, 2010 at 8:56 am


Polo Says:

Sorry, for an oversight. Berdych beat Federer at the 2004 Olympics.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:00 am


stu Says:

i’m so annoyed that kim kardashian got to take pictures with the players. that should be me, or you guys, people who actually follow the sport. not some dimwit socialite who uses it as a publicity stunt. grrr.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:51 am


Ben Pronin Says:

Don’t know Kim Kardashian, she is incredibly hot, who cares if she follows the sport or not, it’s good for tennis publicity.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:54 am


stu Says:

she’s a socialite. which is another word for my “hot”ness is my only claim to fame. if people start coming to tennis matches expecting to see the likes of KK they’re in for a bit of a disappointment aren’t they? unless AndyR is playing…

March 30th, 2010 at 10:03 am


jane Says:

Ben says, “And until Murray beat him in the first round of Dubai back in 08 he hadn’t lost in the first round in almost 4 years.”

Well, I would say that Canas’ win over Fed at IW in 2007 was a first round loss even though it was “technically” second round due to Fed’s receiving a “bye”. But it was *his* first round.

There were a other early rounds (second, third or so) losses in 2007 (2 to Nalby of course) and even in 2006 he lost to Murray in his second round match at Cincinnati.

04-06 were Fed’s most dominant years in terms of all events he played. Beginning in 07, through to now, he’s been less sharp at some of the smaller events and MS events. Still often a contender and even winner, but there’s no doubt there’s been a shift. Maybe that’s what madmax is talking about?

March 30th, 2010 at 10:20 am


Ben Pronin Says:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t0fM3mka_9U

2005, AO round 1, Novak Djokovic vs Marat Safin. Safin routed Djokovic here and, as we know, went on to take the title. But look at the way Djokovic plays. He’s inconsistent, but still always up on the baseline trying to be agressive. And what’s really funny is that here, his serve looks like an imitation of Federer’s almost. His arm and racket are up before he hits the ball. And nowadays the problem is that he keeps his arm way too low. I’m still perplexed as to why he is doing this. But also look at the body language and facial expressions. He lost the first set 6-0 but he gave away very little. It seems like this is before he was able to come up with those ridiculous angles because Safin looks huge on the court. Ironic that they’re wearing the same outfit seeing as how Djokovic is following in Safin’s footsteps as the tormented soul of the tour.

March 30th, 2010 at 10:22 am


Ben Pronin Says:

Good point, Jane. So Federer had a few second round losses here and there. Still. Just look at last year. He made the semis or better of every event he played except the Paris and Monte Carlo Masters. His form might not be amazing but cmon, he’s Roger Federer.

March 30th, 2010 at 10:27 am


jane Says:

“As for the moment, Federer’s rarely ever dropped leads like that against low-tier players, early rounds or not.” — From what I can remember, this seems generally true Ben; I agree with you here. Fed’s play is maybe less consistent as it was in the past?? Of course, he still generally manages to come through. I didn’t see the Serra match, but I was surprised to see it went to 2 tiebreaks. Maybe Serra was playing really well too. Credit to the opponent in all cases, lower tier or whatever. All the guys on the tour can be dangerous and have their days “in the zone” after all.

March 30th, 2010 at 10:30 am


madmax Says:

Agree Stu. KK has false boobs, false lips, and hair extensions. and dated someone in basketball I think before he dumped her. A coby bryant type. if you find “false” hot. then yeah. she’s hot.

Ben,

I respectfully disagree with your above post and the fact that you picked on a tiny bit of my post to disagree with (as is your right – of course).

“Always like what, exactly? Fed’s “struggles” in early rounds are so overhyped. Sure, sometimes he’s a little rusty, but he’s had a lot more close encounters in the latter stages of tournaments than the early ones”.

Even federer himself says that he is rusty, that he needs to find his rhythm, that practise sessions dont equate with “real” matches. I dont think he uses that as an excuse either.you can see that sometimes he just takes longer to work out his opponent’s game, shake off the rust.

He never played Serra before, so would not really have had an idea about his game (other than Sveri checking out his VT’s and sharing the “goss”. I wouldnt say that Federer was completely “flaky” either. He hit some brilliant, some magical shots yesterday, just wasnt consistent.

He seems to have more of a problem in closing out matches early, and I dont know why that is. Serra certainly could have won the match, but i just think that federer is not given enough credit for his mental toughness.

And the pressure that he must be under to stay at the top for so long Ben. He has lost that aura of invincibility which is why every Tom, Dick and Harry “believes” they have a shot at beating federer. Benny did it and when he won, fell to his knees as if he had won a grand slam – that is how important the win was to him, went out in the next round.

Same with Baggy, but this time a little different, federer had match point. why didn’t he close it out? was it a mental lapse thing? I dont know. This is the part of the game he needs to work at.

Same with Tsonga when Roger was up 5:1 in the last set, why didnt he close it out?

Same with delpo at USO 2009, match point. why didnt he close it out?

But early rounds of masters, federer conserves his energy. he said so himself in many interviews, and i think the fact that he still believes he can win, that he still believs in his game, says a lot about Federer the man.

On Sky yesterday they had an analysis expert on showing federer’s balance. It was quite incredible, really interesting. The yellow lines on screen were drawn in computer graphically to measure his head in line with his foot as he approached the ball. He was completely symmetrical and the analyst said his eyes were completely focused on the ball at every angle, every level. I love hearing and learning about these parts of his game.

March 30th, 2010 at 10:34 am


jane Says:

Ben – I’ve seen that vid of Marat and Djoko before. I remember Djok saying he really admired Marat and was nervous when he played that match. He was there for Marat’s last match in Paris and recorded a message for him in his last match in the east last fall (was it Bejiing where they did that ceremony or Shanghai?) I guess they’ve skiied together too.

Anyhow, a somewhat similar backhand and a similar demeanor sometimes too, in that they can/could both shoot themselves in the foot, so to speak.

But off court they are quite different in that Safin was always blunt and didn’t care to please anyone, and even on court, Safin was lower key – he’d never holler over a win like Djoko sometimes does. But he would holler at himself, the ump, break racquets, and generally run himself down into a loss – so in that sense, the tortured sense, I can see what you mean about both him and Djok. Sigh.

March 30th, 2010 at 10:38 am


jane Says:

madmax says “He has lost that aura of invincibility which is why every Tom, Dick and Harry “believes” they have a shot at beating federer.”

LOL maxi. I wonder if Tom(as) believes? : )

March 30th, 2010 at 10:44 am


Ben Pronin Says:

Madmax, I don’t see where you actually disagreed with my post. We both agree he’s rusty. And, especially by pointing out the Del Potro match, it goes to show that Federer has had trouble closing out matches in general, whether it’s in the second round or the final round. I don’t know what it is, either. I don’t think it’s pressure. Federer has dealt with more than enough pressure in his career to be choking against the Serra’s of the world due to pressure. I think it’s something else. But this has nothing to do with praising mental toughness (how much more praise does he really need). Conserving energy, finding his rhythm, being rusty, how much of that really applies to blowing a double break lead and a few set points here and there. All I’m saying is that saying Federer is vulnerable in the early rounds is like saying everyone driving a car is likely to get into an accident. The percent is ridiculously small.

March 30th, 2010 at 10:45 am


Ben Pronin Says:

Djokovic takes his role as a tennis ambassador rather seriously, something Safin never really cared for. I think that’s why they’re different in the press conferences, you can say. But personality-wise they both seem like they enjoy themselves when they’re not on the tennis court (sigh). And yeah, Djokovic did look up to Safin and it was an underlying reason for the big Wimbledon upset, too (worst second round ever, for me). But honestly, I see an unfortunate amount of similarities between the two. That look of desparation into the sky saying “Why me?” is becoming a common look for Djokovic, as it always was for Safin. Stupid head-cases with more talent than they know what to do with.

I don’t know how the “aura of invincibility” can possibly be gone for Federer. Benneteau’s knee drop and reaction was a response to somehow breaking through that aura. Davydenko completely froze for almost 2 whole sets. The aura will be there until Federer’s level drops.

March 30th, 2010 at 10:53 am


jane Says:

Ben I see what you mean about “aura” still being there. But maybe the reaction the players have is that they *finally* got a win and/or that they beat the number 1. And there’s no doubt many of them feel Fed’s one of the greats, so any win over him is a good one. However, I also think madmax has a point, in that the more losses Fed takes to perhaps surprising opponents, or to opponents he had always beaten before (Davy, Soderling [whether it counted or not], Baggy), the more *other* players will believe, every time they step on the court, that they have a chance to pull out the upset. It used to be that they felt their chances were nil or slim before they even began but maybe now they have a little more belief.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:02 am


skeezerweezer Says:

Good Morning Madmax, or Good afternoon, or Good evening? You must be past the point of having morning tea and toast w/marmite? Yes, don’t think I haven’t been paying attention, they even have that stuff in New Zealand…looks nasty! LOL…

Anyways, tennis, oh yeah…..great post.

In analyzin’ Fed now, I would like to bring back the memory of the AO2010, especially the semi and final. The had the “metal to the petal” from the “git go” and did not play “shankapotomous” with the FH, in fact, his FH and serve were rock solid typical Fed and his BH was brillant. Moving well, attacking, serving. His only shaky moment was against Davy, but crushed him after the set loss with a comeback “Bagel”.

As a fan can’t you see right away in the first couple of games if Fed is going to win hands down? IMO most of the time I can. When he plays like he did at AO, especially in the later matches of the tourney….

Here ,he for sure has lapses as posters have mentioned here during Miami. Yes he has had some brilliant shots, won all matches in straight sets, but the fans know Fed as good as anyone( excluding Fed, Mirka, etc ). They watch him play as much as they can. I his new life catching up with him?

This match with “da bird” will show us where he is at, IMO. Whether he starts to “slide” into his comfort zone in the tournament and win on or…..

Go Fed…..

Now I think I will look for that Marmite..

March 30th, 2010 at 11:09 am


Ben Pronin Says:

“As a fan can’t you see right away in the first couple of games if Fed is going to win hands down? IMO most of the time I can.”

Really? I’m not even sure that’s a fair statement. Most of the time, Federer does win. Predicting his victories isn’t rocket science. But there are matches where he looks like he’s about to win and then loses. Del Po, Benneteau, and Gonzo back in 07 come to mind. In those 3 matches he won the first set comfortably 6-3. The next set was close with Fed having his chances but losing. Then he got edged out in the end. It’s tennis.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:15 am


skeezerweezer Says:

Ben,

Note I said “most of the time I can”. Not all the time, I am not the “nostradamus” of tennis. It’s just my observation……please keep in context..

“When he plays like he did at AO, especially in the later matches of the tourney….”

I knew someone was going to cut out that line when I wrote it, :)

March 30th, 2010 at 11:24 am


Ben Pronin Says:

I’m just saying, it’s not the aura of invincibility that’s gone, it’s the guarantee of a Federer victory. He can lose matches even when it looks like he’s going to win. The thing is, those losses always make big news because they really are a rare occurence. He’s still the best.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:28 am


grace Says:

I´m a Roger´s fan, I always support Roger, that´s what fans are for.Winning when he doesn´t have his best is what makes he the GOAT, at least his TB.were great, remember Roger is the man to beat
for all the guys on tour.A win is a win,probably
Djoko or Murray would love to be in his position, he came through,that´s what matter.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:31 am


Ben Pronin Says:

“Partisans of Roger Federer claim that he was hindered by a back problem in his 2009 Aussie Open loss to Rafael Nadal. I didn’t notice it, and even if I had, I don’t know how what kind of injury is worth bringing up if it allows you to win six matches at a Grand Slam and take two sets from a guy who has a winning record against you. Ditto for Nadal at the French Open last year. I didn’t see any visible knee trouble in his loss to Robin Soderling, and I don’t know how you win three matches at the most grueling tournament in the world, before going out in four tough sets to the eventual runner-up, if you’re suffering every time you plant your foot on the ground.”

Tignor is the man: http://tennisworld.typepad.com/thewrap/2010/03/rainy-day-roundup-drugs-bruises-nalbandian.html

March 30th, 2010 at 11:41 am


skeezerweezer Says:

That’s true, he can lose a match ( and has ) that looks like he is going to win. And sometimes a guy can get hot and there is nothing anyone can do. That is a given.

But to me there are certain “keys” for him. As an example; How well he is moving and attacking, serving…. You don’t move well, you’re not going to hit the ball well. If he is doing those things, for me, I will place my bet on him. I’m just sayin back….:)

Also, remember I don’t claim to have a lock on when he is going to win, just my observation of the past….

PS: Sorry about the spelling in that post…just woke up :(

March 30th, 2010 at 11:42 am


Ben Pronin Says:

I don’t think movement was the issue against Del Potro, but I get what you’re saying.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:44 am


NELTA Says:

Tsonga is making quick work of JC. A Tsonga/Nadal match in the next round will be fun to watch.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:47 am


skeezerweezer Says:

Ben,

Thanks for having my “Back” on the March 30th, 2010 at 11:41 am post and the link to the article. I have been debating this up here also……glad this is coming to an end and getting exposed.

One of the posters there said…

“if you’ve shown up for the match, the final score is all that matters. And no excuses should be made in hindsight either about a particular match, such as sore knees or aching lungs or a bad back.”

March 30th, 2010 at 11:50 am


Polo Says:

Ben Pronin Says:
“…it’s not the aura of invincibility that’s gone, it’s the guarantee of a Federer victory…”

I agree with that without reservations. And though I berate Federer when he plays in a level less than what I had been accustomed to, I also realize that he is now closer to 30 than he is to 20. Then I “forgive” him and then thank him that even after all these years, he is still able to enthrall me with his talent. It still feels bad to see him lose. But just to see him still play, remain competitive and even more remarkably, remain the man to beat is a gift from him to fans like me.

March 30th, 2010 at 12:35 pm


margot Says:

madmax: no need to saw poor Jeremy in half, that fickle female conty has fessed she loves another, a certain Mr K so JC is all mine…expect I’ll have to fight jane off and possibly von though….
tenisbebe: your comments re “Miss Kitty” made me laugh but crikey she looked as if she’d just stepped outside some bordello didn’t she and the other one was clearly missing a piece of clothing….
couldn’t understand how Bartolli had beaten the talented Kutzny, her game is horrible, but K was injured so…..
just cheered myself up watching highlights of last year’s final, my, my, Andy was playing well then sigh….
meanwhile onward and upward ,Come On Cilic and COme On Youzny! Andy who?????

March 30th, 2010 at 12:46 pm


madmax Says:

jane,

your funny :) made me laugh reading about my “Tom, Dick and Harry” comment.

Margot,

yes. saw him in half. Not the man for me! But ooh la la, the french accent, yes I could listen to that ALL DAY!

Skeezer, you are a gem, remembering my marmite on toast, but only normally have during a morning (if time), and mostly on sundays, so I can lather it on – some people detest it. I absolutely love it! Could eat it by the spoonful – it’s an acquired taste, I’ll admit, but certainly worth “the bite!”

This Amalgro v Belluci match is GREAT. going back and forth adv. A, deuce, adv. B, deuce. Belluci just about to serve.

fabulous shot making and Amalgro just did his punching in the air! I thought the point was out actually. I think he was excited! It’s now 3:3.

Anyway,

Ben Pronin.

I’m loving your posts. And I dont think we are disagreeing that much.

Trust me, I have seen THAT federer match, fifth set a thousand times. a thousand times. and I am saying that federer’s back gave in in fifth set after game 2. I have watched the VT, over and over. He could not serve properly. We didnt really hear about the back issue until a few weeks after that tournament. Announcement on sky. I remember it so well.

But I do take your point, these are professional athletes, they grind day in, day out.

I thought rafa played brilliantly against soderling at FO (but then I dont watch him so closely), so when soderling beat him, I thought it was all fair and square. I couldnt detect that he wasnt running around like he usually does, grinding the point out from side to side.

But I do watch federer’s game closely, and I repeat Ben (nicely and softly), that his back went on serve. He was even audible, when usually on serve, he is reasonably quiet.

This Amalgro v Belluci match is high quality and so close.

Tell me Ben, why isn’t Amalgro a top ten player? He’s great!

March 30th, 2010 at 1:19 pm


Ben Pronin Says:

Almagro is not great. Never was, never will be. He’s not top 10 because his mental capacity is smaller than Berdych’s.

As for the back issue, it doesn’t matter what happened. Do you have any idea how hard it is to hit a serve 120+ mph? Or 110? Or even 100? It’s fuggin hard. Federer was consistently hitting those serves in that 5th set, even though he was missing more often. His back could not nearly have been that bad since he still played. Especially considering Federer has always been smart with his body, I doubt he’d try to destroy his back if it was that bad. Point being: Federer’s back cannot be blamed for his loss.

March 30th, 2010 at 1:24 pm


Kimo Says:

madmax said:

“Tell me Ben, why isn’t Amalgro a top ten player? He’s great!”

Choker. Big time. Maybe even worse than Berdych.

March 30th, 2010 at 1:27 pm


contador Says:

oh yeah-

but excuses happen and it’s always legit when they apply to rafa and others. Federer gets no slack and he’s human, has fitness issues by the end of a GS like everyone else, and usually it;s his lower back. clearly the difference between how well he served in order to win the soda match was not within his ability against del Potro by the time he ot to the US Open final; the DF’s are a fact, however one interprets them.

certainly, his overall serving at the US Open was less reliable than at the FO and Wimbldon 09. he even served well in cincy, won that tourny, one could argue, he was playing too much, should have skipped cincy.

but so what? his back was fine, until the end of the race; making a runners analogy, since it’s my own perspective. i might enter a race feeling great but the last 2 miles, something goes very wrong.

it’s unpredictable yet, sort of predictable. in the back of my mind, usually the problem is an old injury flaring up against my will and my best efforts to train and assess the foot, the knee, whatever, before a race are not exact.

back to tennis-

hey, by the no excuses standard, rafa showed up to FO 09, so- no knee excuses for losing to soda, or losing to federer in madrid.

however, “excuses” ARE actual “reasons” a player does not have their best game or fitness and no matter how much the will is there to win, one ultimately it’s a gamble. obviously the case of injury orld or new, is intensified over marathon grand slams.

but i wouldn’t argue with the fact that a player maybe rethink entering a tourny or a match, in the first place, if there is a prior known ailment .

take the case of gilles simon. he has obvious ongoing knee problems but keeps entering, only to occupy a spot, have fans pay to see him and then hobble through a match, call the trainer, and so on…

as much as i hope the best for gilles and he’s one of my favorites, it is annoying already.

why did federer with mono keep on entering matches and losing?

i don’t know, but isn’t it likely that they, (examples: simon and federer ) are advised to go on and believe they can play through an illness or injury, and in fact believe it’s the best thing to do to keep up the match play, even though it’s risky.

there will always be “excuses” and they are made mostly by the fans (me), than the players : ) we notice when they are not 100%. it’s my job, hahaha i like some worrying, madmax.

federer is older and more prone to suffer physically, though his will to win may be as strong as ever.

when he plays now, i am always worried. *smiles* used to not be like that, at all. federer surprises me in a great way sometimes and other times, i think “why, fed, why!”.hahahahaaaa…”why keep going out there and shocking me with the shanks and UE’s, massive DF’s, like in the final of the US Open 09?”

he says he loves tennis, he does it for the fun of it. okay then. i’ll be satisfied, win or lose. gotta love roger federer!

But-
i’ll keep making excuses or reasons for the losses. like tonight. will his poor night vision let him down? his back? a half step slow? the wind?…..ah, and why not. tho, it is his fault for entering the tourny in the first place or not withdrawing from such a nasty conditions. he’s the great federer i remind myself and he’s being generous enough to keep playing. those moments of brilliance are an awesome sight- those 2 successive volleys yesterday, unbelievable talent. i’m a fedfan or fedtard, whichever.

Roger Federer- wonderful for tennis. period. the end.

tomas berdych has a good shot. all excuses apply…*.snickering*

meanwhile, tsonga thru! and the charming bellucci locked in a dramatic decider

almagro will win NELTA…lol.

it’s 4 all. heres where nico makes his move.

March 30th, 2010 at 1:27 pm


contador Says:

margot-

“that fickle conty fessed she loves another..” good one, : )

his mane is Krajinovic…if you have not already, gotta go look him up.

cheers, back to work, or i’ll get stuck here another day.

March 30th, 2010 at 1:31 pm


contador Says:

meant “his Name is kajinovic”

apologies for all my typos and other errors….

my excuse: guilt.

streaming live tennis and reading tennis-x

March 30th, 2010 at 1:36 pm


NELTA Says:

I think Almagro and Bellucci are headed for a 3rd set breaker. It’s a DC atmosphere. Security is keeping the Brazilian fans in check. Almagro already tried to get one fan ejected for saying something, but security gave him a warning. Unfortunately TC switched to the Venus Williams match so I can’t watch it anymore.

March 30th, 2010 at 1:37 pm


contador Says:

okay. i am off…

krajinvoc-yeah, that’s it.

March 30th, 2010 at 1:37 pm


madmax Says:

yes, this amalgro match.

I dont know how Ben you can say amalgro is “crap”, (well, you sorta said that). He almost, very nearly, not quite, took rafa out last year (I cannot remember the tournament, but I know you will remember). I know afterwards, Amalgro was in tears, he was that close. He was crushed, but he is THUMPING this ball Ben, like the foot of Thumper. Thump, Thump, Thump!

I also didnt realise that Belluci was THIS good. Good, but not THIS good.

Contador,

I dont make excuses for Roger at all :) (no offence).

He had a back issue at that time, reported, recorded and had to take off 6 weeks I think after AO 2009, soreness, employed a new physio just recently, (good move), and so I know that Roger takes his “niggles” seriously and needs an expert hand to sort out realignment, almost immediately after a match, rather than just a masseur. His new physio reminds me of Avran Grant (Chelsea Manager here in UK), you may not have heard of him – we have so much sport over here in UK, football, cricket, and have started to watch NFL, Wrestlemania (weird), but tennis is my first love.

March 30th, 2010 at 1:43 pm


contador Says:

madmax, no offense taken. of course!

i have to worry, it’s natural.

night vision? he needs his eyes checked? whatever it is… : )

krajinovic- there.

oh, bellucci gone…almost

March 30th, 2010 at 1:47 pm


NELTA Says:

Good call Conty. 4 match points for Almagro in the breaker. He really has a live arm. His serve motion isn’t that impressive, but he really thumps it and of course he can crack that backhand. He tends to be inconsistent.

March 30th, 2010 at 1:49 pm


Ben Pronin Says:

Madmax, that Nadal match is a great example of why Almagro sucks. He was playing better than Nadal on every single point. Why didn’t he win? He didn’t want to. Every time he got a lead, he threw it away. The facial expression was that of a person who didn’t want to win. Nadal was playing some of his worst tennis but boy did he want to win.

Niggles, shmiggles. Every player has something wrong all the time, as Tignor pointed out. If you play an entire match without having to “fluff” in your serves, your injury isn’t bad enough to be mentioned. Federer is an example. Nadal is another. But this applies to every single player out there. Ever notice how often Roddick is injured? Ever notice how we never know until he actually pulls out of an event? Hell, even when his shoulder started bothering him against Cilic, he still only lost because Cilic stepped up in the 5th set. I get that some injuries can be reasons, but if you play a full match, you are not injured enough for that to be the primary reason you lost. If the injury was that bad, you’d retire.

March 30th, 2010 at 2:12 pm


margot Says:

Cripes conty! He looks about 12!

March 30th, 2010 at 2:14 pm


Polo Says:

Ben Pronin, when you said that Almagro’s facial expression was that of a person who did not want to win, you were saying that as a figure of speech, weren’t you? I cannot believe that there is a tennis player out there now or who ever lived who did not want to win.

March 30th, 2010 at 2:24 pm


Fot Says:

Hey guys! I just got back from a luncheon with some of my girlfriends. I missed Venus’ match but I see Roddick is back at 4-4 after being down 4-1. Becker has never beaten Roddick and he probably don’t think he can in this match. (Look for Roddick to win in straight sets).

I see Fish retired. That’s the problem with him. He can have one great match (Murray); another good match but his body breaks down too much – even with all the weight he’s lost.

What do you guys think about the rest of the matches today? I know Berdych can be a problem – I just hope Roger is up to the task! I actually don’t think the Nadal/Ferrer match will be close. Just a hunch. I think Nadal will run away with this match – but we will see.

March 30th, 2010 at 3:09 pm


madmax Says:

Hello FOT! Back from luncheon with some of your girlfriends? (I take it you aren’t male? or are you the don juan of the tennis world, my friend?!!!).

Well, really hoping for federer to pull this one off big time, want that forehand to be firing, I mean shooting baby, shooting all the way to Mars and loop de loop around venus, out of orbit, and then back again onto court.

C’moon Roger! Let’s go and get this match wrapped up in straights! (No tiebreakers please!).

Ben,

match against rafa v amalgro, was it Miami last year? If so, goodness me, this year has flown! And yes match point, I really thought amalgro would pull it off, but he choked. Not today though. was a great match.

sorry to hear about fish. I didnt know he retired until I just read above post.

Margot,

12 years old? Conty’s new boyfriend? (Chardy will be jealous!).

March 30th, 2010 at 3:24 pm


madmax Says:

Well done roddick! What a first set! He was 4:1 down and pulled it off!

Larry Stefanki is such a big daddy! He loves roddick like a son, you can tell.

Go roddick!

March 30th, 2010 at 3:27 pm


Skorocel Says:

A-Rad? LOL :-)

March 30th, 2010 at 3:37 pm


Fot Says:

No… I’m not male. I’m a retired female! Now I’m watching the Roddick match on television and watching the Gonzo match on my computer!

March 30th, 2010 at 3:37 pm


Skorocel Says:

contador: „why did federer with mono keep on entering matches and losing?“

Because his „mono“ was obviously SOO serious it allowed him to play ;-)

March 30th, 2010 at 3:37 pm


NELTA Says:

madmax,

Roddick was not only down 4-1, but Becker had triple break point to go up 5-1 and couldn’t convert. You see these things happen time and time again. Matches can swing dramatically if you don’t take advantage of opportunities.

Yesterday Melzer was up a set and had 5 break points in the 2nd set, but couldn’t convert. Verdasco had no break chances. Verdasco ended up winning the 2nd set in a breaker then cruised in the 3rd.

Monaco was up a set and had break chances in the 2nd, but couldn’t convert. The next game Gonzo broke serve and cruised on to win the 2nd and 3rd sets comfortably.

March 30th, 2010 at 3:40 pm


Skorocel Says:

madmax said about the AO 2009 final: „Trust me, I have seen THAT federer match, fifth set a thousand times. a thousand times. and I am saying that federer’s back gave in in fifth set after game 2. I have watched the VT, over and over. He could not serve properly. We didnt really hear about the back issue until a few weeks after that tournament. Announcement on sky. I remember it so well.

But I do watch federer’s game closely, and I repeat Ben (nicely and softly), that his back went on serve. He was even audible, when usually on serve, he is reasonably quiet.“

———–

LOL :-) Another one of Roger’s personal doctors spoke out :-) Tell me madmax, what the hell happened to Federer in the FO 2008 final? Or the Wimby final month later? What the f.ck troubled Federer there?! Bad back, mono, or darkness? Even Nadal himself injured his knee in that Wimby 2007 final (and UNLIKE in the case of Fed’s supposed „back injury“, you could see it was real, as he did receive a MT; WHEN LEADING 4-1 in the 4th, btw), yet he’s not bitching about it like you or any other of those Fedtards do whenever Federer appears to be „injured“… Roger lost that match, so PLEASE deal with it! Bad back or not, nothing will change this fact. Absolutely nothing.

Anyway, let’s assume Fed was indeed injured, OK? Then, WHAT do you think would’ve happened had his back been OK in that 5th set? Judging from his previous encounters with Nadal (90 % of which Federer lost because of being unable to win the important points), I would say nothing. Nothing that would change the outcome of the match, at least…

March 30th, 2010 at 3:41 pm


Fot Says:

Seems like Soderling is on fire! But Gonzo wasn’t playing great in that match last night either. Soderling is looking to give Gonzo goose egg set!

March 30th, 2010 at 4:00 pm


madmax Says:

skorocel shut up will you and grow up. if you cannot have an intelligent conversation with grown ups, then go back to your play pen. what is the matter with you?

If you want to have a proper conversation, then ask me a question and I will give you my opinion.

I read interviews as much as the next guy who loves federer. If his doctor puts out a statement, then why should I disbelieve it? Am I supposed to believe a non-medical critic like you? OKay, yes, that makes huge sense to me.

You want to ask me about Wimbledon 2008? Okay. Wimbledon 2008, in my opinion was the best match I have ever seen play in terms of tension, romance between two lovers of the game (Jane will understand that being an English Teacher), understanding, empathy, poignancy, tears, laughter, smiles, brilliance, cruelty – it was a tough ask, Skorocel. The match could have gone either way. I dont think either player was injured (unless I missed something?).

It was incredibly entertaining, passionate, lots of class, panache, I was deeply sad that Roger lost that match, but I was also very happy that Rafa won. I am a fan of rafa, I have not a problem at all with him. I believe he is great for the sport. But like Duro, there is only one for me, Roger Federer is the best, always will be.
The fact that you have to exercise your tongue in a negative way shows that you are a sore, sore person. sorry for that.

Just to put you right Skorocel, I dont “bitch” about anything. You obviously have a bad back and sore knees today? go get a massage and take some peppermint tea. It might help.

If you have a problem with any players ailments Skorocel, then write a letter to the doctors, tell them to retake their exams as clearly their prognosis/diagnosis are just pure lies – that’s what you would believe.

Enjoy your evening Skorocel.

March 30th, 2010 at 4:23 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

Madmax is on fire! You go Girl! Woot!

Shaamoooon! :)

March 30th, 2010 at 4:36 pm


Fot Says:

Yes, Madmax…you get ’em!

March 30th, 2010 at 4:37 pm


jane Says:

Presuming Rafa beats Ferrer, does Tsonga meet Rafa next? Hmmm…that might be a cracker.

March 30th, 2010 at 4:38 pm


contador Says:

settle down, skorocel : ) geees. you get really worked up and babble, babble….

nothing wrong with babble, babble, babble-

and i would probably take your bait but i am now streaming mr. dimples v gonzo. and i don’t like what i am presently seeing. see. i’m just now realizing how big a sodertard i am. normally i cheer for gonazo, in these cases.

oo oh, soda has black strapping , one of those patella stabilizing thingy’s. and it was not there on the knee yesterday. this is going to a tie breaker.

margot-

hahahahaaaaa *snort* hahahahaa

he DOES look 12. my mind is innocent okay. he’s 18, i think.
BIG, BIG potential. have broken up with EG. finally tossed him into a round file in favor of Krajinovic and as another beloved poster on TT would say, ” you heard it hear first* lolz….

c’mon soda pop! yey, he held….it’ll be a tid break NELTA.

who do you pick?

March 30th, 2010 at 4:38 pm


Fot Says:

I see Ferrer has already been broken. I just wish Nadal would speed up (just a little) between points. It’s so taxing to watch his matches because they seem to go sooooooooooooooo slow…………..

March 30th, 2010 at 4:39 pm


Fot Says:

Jane, if Nadal beats this match he will indeed play Tsonga. It’ll depend on which ‘Tsonga’ shows up but that might be a cracker indeed!

March 30th, 2010 at 4:40 pm


contador Says:

Fot-

“if Nadal beats this match…”

ferrer has no chance, none whatsoever against nadal. this is a practice session for rafa.

tsonga? i agree. one never knows.

meanwhile-

gonzo and soda are gonna go the distance.

soderling better start using the towel to cover his head and think things over on the chagneovers. blow the nose with something else, my friend.

March 30th, 2010 at 4:45 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

ok, I have to bite again,,,what is a “cracker” and does it go with “cheese whiz”. I got the “Chillax” thingy down…

Ferrer breaks back to even at 2-2

March 30th, 2010 at 4:47 pm


stu Says:

why did fishy fish retire, hard luck!

ooh nando dasco or cilic? i say cilic needs to win this one for goran!

March 30th, 2010 at 4:48 pm


NELTA Says:

I like the way Ferrer returns serve against Nadal. He doesn’t bend over into the ready position until Nadal finishes all his adjustments and ball bouncing. If you get into the read position to long you can lose your reaction time and get tight on the return. Same principle for a batter in baseball. It’s something that I think Fed should do on the big ad court points against Nadal. Wait until he finishes his ball bouncing then bend into the ready position. Soderling also does a good job of this now when he plays Nadal. He just stands straight up and looks at Nadal then gets ready after all the rituals are finished.

March 30th, 2010 at 4:48 pm


Fot Says:

I use the word “cracker” as it hot, great match, etc. Great competitive match.

March 30th, 2010 at 4:50 pm


contador Says:

*big sigh*

the decider.

soda wants to pop gonzo…drama, tension. arguing

stay cool soda, cool.

skeezerweezer, puhleeae tell me you do not actually eat cheese whiz…..

March 30th, 2010 at 4:51 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

Soda give the bagel then loses the 2nd in a TB?

March 30th, 2010 at 4:51 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

contador,

nope. never touched it :)

March 30th, 2010 at 4:55 pm


Fot Says:

Nadal’s ‘outfit’ is much better than the one he had on last week. He needs to permanently burn those shorts from last week.

I’m pleasantly surprised by the play of Ferrer in this match so far. Then again, Nalbandian played great the first set too…but we know what happened in the match.

March 30th, 2010 at 4:57 pm


contador Says:

NELTA, Fot- you are trying to lure me over to the rafa match…

i want to see what you are describing NELTA.

i heard shakira wants those rafa shorts…the IW ones.

uh boy, soda up a break in the decider. but…up one break is never enough. gonzo can get on a roll.

ah well, may the best man win this one. i don’t like seeing soda with the knee strapping.

March 30th, 2010 at 5:07 pm


Fot Says:

Contador you should do like me… watch both of them! lol! (the matches).

March 30th, 2010 at 5:08 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

Fot,

Yes much better than IW, Easterish

March 30th, 2010 at 5:09 pm


jane Says:

So who does Roddick play next? Sorry – am being too lazy to look at the draw. ha ha. Thanks to Fot for answering my Rafa question. Last time I glanced at scores Rafa was up a break and Soda was cruising. Now Ferrer had leveled and Sod’s in a 3rd set. Sheesh. Wish I had more time to watch.

March 30th, 2010 at 5:10 pm


Fot Says:

About the tape…I should invent tape the color of what the players are wearing – that way, it’ll appear a part of their ‘outfit’. So if Nadal has to have tape on his knees, the tape would be blue or yellow (to match his outfit). Instead of that big white strapping Venus has on her leg, her strapping would be red.

March 30th, 2010 at 5:10 pm


Fot Says:

Jane, Roddick plays Almagro. (I think should be an easy win for Roddick)…then it might get a little harder.

March 30th, 2010 at 5:12 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

45-50 sec to serve? C’mon! Change the rule or enforce it already. If they change it, I am sure it will called “Da Nadal” rule……

Nadal wins the first in s TB…should be all down hill from here…

March 30th, 2010 at 5:32 pm


contador Says:

Fot-

tried multi-streaming but it’s too much for this laptop.

no tennis, no live tennis programmed on my local FSN until thursday! i cant even set the dvr at home.

streaming the nadal match now. and saw rafa win that tie break.

i love rafa’s new clothe, comapratively.

rafa on a toilet break. taking an eternity to serve.

the cilic – verdasco match could start and be over before this match is done. if ferrer has the fight left.

March 30th, 2010 at 5:33 pm


Fot Says:

Yep, all downhill for Ferrer now. Maybe a 6-2 type set for Nadal now.

March 30th, 2010 at 5:33 pm


Fot Says:

Well only one match on now. Do you have tennis channel? I’m watching tennis on that channel now and I have TennisTV.com for my computer.

March 30th, 2010 at 5:34 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

Fot Says:

“About the tape…I should invent tape the color of what the players are wearin”

Excellant idea :)

Wait…what if your wearing silver……duct tape?

March 30th, 2010 at 5:38 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

Fot,

Well there is the early break…I think you called it 6-2….we’ll have to wait though let’s see…how many more times would Nadal serve? And times that times avg 45 sec? I think I’ll take a nap…..

March 30th, 2010 at 5:47 pm


andrea Says:

wow. the first set was almost 1.5 hours. and with an early break, seems like the writing is on the wall. but ferrer is like a long distance runner sometimes on the back court. maybe he can come back.

March 30th, 2010 at 5:48 pm


NELTA Says:

Ferrer is toast. He played so well in the 1st set and missed 2 easy forehands at 5-5 in the breaker. Right now Ferrer feels like he is playing at the bottom of a valley and Nadal is hitting down from the top of a mountain.

March 30th, 2010 at 5:54 pm


NELTA Says:

Gotta give credit to Ferrer. He is still fighting.

March 30th, 2010 at 5:58 pm


Eric Says:

Suddenly this just got a lot more interesting. It was too bad to see Ferrer lose the first set in a tiebreak; he was definitely the better man out there for most of it. Looks like he is trying to fight back. (I don’t like his chances, mind, but he’s just proven he’s going to try.) I only have one eye on the match but it seems like Nadal is making many more errors than usual – yea or nay?

March 30th, 2010 at 6:00 pm


Von Says:

WOW, Nadal and Ferrer are really going at it big time. The first set lasted for 68 minutes and was high quality tennis. Ferrer looks as though he’s now running on fumes after that first set workout, but Nadal is helping him somewhat, by committing more UEs.

March 30th, 2010 at 6:04 pm


Fot Says:

Well, I have to give credit to Ferrer. He didn’t fold in this 2nd set. However, he still will probably lose.

One thing for the Nadal fans….he’s not ON in this match (yet he still leads). I think he definitely will have to play better against Tsonga.

March 30th, 2010 at 6:09 pm


Kimmi Says:

Hello guys,
Who watched Tsonga match..was he too good or was ferrero bad, that score is one sided.. adv. Tsonga!

I love both Cilic and verdasco…may the better man win here

verdy seem to be in control of this fist set..c’mon finish it.

March 30th, 2010 at 6:25 pm


NELTA Says:

Nadal’s backhand was off today. He will need to play better against Tsonga.

March 30th, 2010 at 6:35 pm


skeezerweezer Says:

Some Kudos to Cilic here: Is he the best ground stroker of the tall guys? Ferdy is no doubt a good baseliner, these guys are bangin, one heckava match :)

March 30th, 2010 at 7:11 pm


skeezerweezer Says:

Nelta,

Agreed. Rafa has to play better but hats off to Ferrer, he played well. I might get hit on that quote as I have said the same about the Fed :)

I am still picking Rafa for the Final, his fans should be happy about his draw…….

March 30th, 2010 at 7:14 pm


Fot Says:

I’m glad I got tennisTV because Tennis channel is showign a boring Bartoli/Wickmayer match! The Verdasco match is much better than the girls.

March 30th, 2010 at 7:23 pm


Fot Says:

Bartoli/Wickmayer have been on the court for 23 minutes and have completed only 2 games! At this rate, Roger’s match will start at midnight!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

March 30th, 2010 at 7:29 pm


Kimmi Says:

Verdasco..wooooooo!

Suprising Cilic making more UE that verdasco. verdasco is becoming a better match player. Great win!

March 30th, 2010 at 7:35 pm


Kimmi Says:

lol Fot..I agree, Bartoli is no fun to watch!

March 30th, 2010 at 7:36 pm


skeezerweezer Says:

Wow,

Verdasco…! Good for him….sorry for Cilic….That is Verdasco for ya…can turn into hot sauce…he is no slouch. Isn’t he in the top 10 anyway or there abouts?

Fot,

23 min = 2 games?

LOL…If it was a generation or two ago..let’s say Billie Jean vs Martina….it would be over in 23 minutes..either way…ha!

March 30th, 2010 at 7:37 pm


Fot Says:

Not they have completed 5 games in 35 minutes!

March 30th, 2010 at 7:39 pm


jane Says:

Thanks again Fot. So Verdasco plays the winner of Fed/T-berd (congrats Kimmi, I know you like Hotsauce : )), Youz plays Soda, Tsonga plays Rafa, and Roddick plays Nico. Some interesting matches to which to look forward.

March 30th, 2010 at 7:40 pm


skeezerweezer Says:

Please don’t go 3 sets….PLeeeeeasssssseeaaaa! C’mon Ladies….!!

Madmax you gotta chime in here..I know it’s getting late where you are…. :)

March 30th, 2010 at 7:41 pm


Kimmi Says:

Fot..aarrrrrg. and it keeps carries on. So far it is break then break back..break again..break back..oh boy!

March 30th, 2010 at 7:42 pm


jane Says:

These aren’t predictions, just hopes (that disclaimer is for you Von) – I’d like to see a Soda vs. Fed semi and a Roddick vs. Nadal semi.

March 30th, 2010 at 7:42 pm


skeezerweezer Says:

Jane,

I’m with you….

March 30th, 2010 at 7:45 pm


Kimmi Says:

verdasco played federer very close in WTF..nadal must have told him to attack fed BH..

jane, yes I like verdasco but when he plays the maestro he move down in the list!

March 30th, 2010 at 7:47 pm


sar Says:

Kimmi I have a hot sauce autograph (more like scribble) for you if you want it.

March 30th, 2010 at 7:56 pm


Kimmi Says:

Verdasco autograph..lol sar!
Nah!! I prefer to just watch him play..

March 30th, 2010 at 8:04 pm


Fot Says:

ONE HOUR AND SEVEN MINUTES to play 1 set of women’s tennis *pulls hair out*

March 30th, 2010 at 8:11 pm


Cbeast Says:

Yeah FOT I agree drives me crazy….lol.
Who is staying up for the Fed match ?
Its 2:21AM here and still waiting agghhhh!
Only a nother 20 minutes.

March 30th, 2010 at 8:18 pm


skeezerweezer Says:

NEWS FLASH! NEWS FLASH!

WTF! Breaking News………..

WOMENS TENNIS MATCH IN MIAMI GOING FOR THE RECORD!

Yes, an exclusive from WTF! Network, reliable sources (Fot) led us to follow up on the Womens Match STILL ongoing in Miami, Florida. After further investigation, it was found that the two players agreed to that they wanted to be placed in the “Guiness World Record” book. Following up oin these facts, apparently they are using several agreed tactics, including long useless rallies, and several mysterious “adjustments” during changeovers to elongate the match.

We will keep you up to date with the latest…..

Reporting for WTF! Network

Skeezer….out

March 30th, 2010 at 8:25 pm


Kimmi Says:

cbeast, 2:20 am Wow! that is very late.

Unfortunately for you this match has third set all written to it! :(

March 30th, 2010 at 8:42 pm


Cbeast Says:

lol I hope not!
Also if Fed does not win I am gonna be so pissed!
Probably go to bed cursing and wishing I had just gone to sleep !

March 30th, 2010 at 8:49 pm


NELTA Says:

I’m not staying up for the Fed match if Wickmayer wins the 2nd set. You know the 3rd set will be at least another 45 minutes then add another 15 minutes before Fed gets on the court then another 15 minutes for coin toss/warm up.

March 30th, 2010 at 8:49 pm


jane Says:

Guys: this is *nothing* – the longest women’s tennis match was OVER SIX HOURS LONG!!!

Here are the details:

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/23/sports/tennis/24tennis.html

March 30th, 2010 at 8:50 pm


Cbeast Says:

Screw that if they dont end it in the next 15 minutes I say Kick them of the court!!!
Let them play on Court one for Gods sake!
Not being sexist its just late.

March 30th, 2010 at 8:58 pm


blank Says:

Jane, This is insane!!(#(#&**^$

“…29-minute, 643-shot rally…”

March 30th, 2010 at 8:59 pm


Kimmi Says:

hahahahahhh NELTA “…then another 15 minutes for coin toss/warm up”

I mean, if he was playing Nadal yes..but I think it will be a little quicker than that

Bartoli broke and serving for the match..phew!

March 30th, 2010 at 9:00 pm


Cbeast Says:

Hey NELTA its looking good!
Thank the heavens LOL,Marion serving for the match.
All worked out alright.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:00 pm


Cbeast Says:

Oh come on Please …..
2nd serve … YES!

March 30th, 2010 at 9:02 pm


Polo Says:

I was hoping the ladies will go into a third set. Hehehe!

March 30th, 2010 at 9:09 pm


Cbeast Says:

Jezz finaly! 15 minutes late about time.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:10 pm


Kimmi Says:

Cbeast, I see Bartoli got more fans tonight :)

March 30th, 2010 at 9:11 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

2 hours, 2 sets…….WHEW! Finally!

C’mon Fed!

March 30th, 2010 at 9:15 pm


Cbeast Says:

:)) jajaja ;)

March 30th, 2010 at 9:16 pm


jane Says:

I know blank – weirdly it sounds like about the most boring endurance test ever. I love that when the ladies finished the match they actually thanked the umpire for staying awake. hahahahaha! : )

Oh well, Bartoli got it done and now Fed and T-Berd.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:19 pm


Cbeast Says:

Nice start I like it.Lets hope fed doesn’t relinquish the break like christmas parcels.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:24 pm


blank Says:

Jane, more than boring, I’d categorize this as ‘Shocking’. Too long to be real!!

Nice to see Fed off to a good start. But as he’s been doing so frequently these days, it could be back to even very quickly.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:32 pm


jane Says:

Fed’s serve is very strong tonight (82% firsts in) ; Berdy’s not very strong (50%).

March 30th, 2010 at 9:34 pm


Cbeast Says:

Awesome defense shot from fed..

March 30th, 2010 at 9:38 pm


Kimmi Says:

ahhhh..what a miss!

C’moon

March 30th, 2010 at 9:41 pm


blank Says:

Exactly what I feared :-/

March 30th, 2010 at 9:41 pm


Cbeast Says:

that was bad, come on Fed ! concentrate

March 30th, 2010 at 9:42 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

Fed,

Dude, Step in on those short FH’s, or they are going long every time! Birdy breaks back….

March 30th, 2010 at 9:42 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

Now we have a match..in control early…then…

March 30th, 2010 at 9:44 pm


Kimmi Says:

the berdych is hitting the ball as hard as you can get..fed is overpowered here!

C’moon

March 30th, 2010 at 9:45 pm


Cbeast Says:

Fed looks pissed already ..
I always get worried when hes angry cause he doesnt concentrate.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:45 pm


Kimmi Says:

maybe if I stop watching he might calm down..c’moon fed

March 30th, 2010 at 9:47 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

Kimmi,

LOL! Same here…

March 30th, 2010 at 9:48 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

Fed looking uncomfortable here…or just me?

March 30th, 2010 at 9:50 pm


Polo Says:

Is it going to be like this every time I watch Federer play now? This is not good for my ulcers.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:50 pm


Kimmi Says:

He is looking VERY uncomfortable since that break back from Berdy…he is missing BH now…c’mooon!

March 30th, 2010 at 9:51 pm


Kimmi Says:

0-30 WOW..No first serves in this game either

March 30th, 2010 at 9:53 pm


Kimmi Says:

0-40 oh Nooo!

March 30th, 2010 at 9:53 pm


Polo Says:

Yikes!

March 30th, 2010 at 9:53 pm


Kimmi Says:

Was that a DF..did not even look! Wow!

March 30th, 2010 at 9:54 pm


Cbeast Says:

Oh my God !
This is bad bad bad!
I am so pissed lol!

That set was in the bag!

March 30th, 2010 at 9:54 pm


blank Says:

Maybe he needs to go to the bathroom.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:54 pm


Eric Says:

wow, federer is giving this match away.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:54 pm


stu Says:

ooh is the bird finally gonna do it this time?!

March 30th, 2010 at 9:54 pm


Polo Says:

Berdych should put Federer out of his misery as quickly as possible so it would be painless.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:55 pm


jane Says:

What happened there? Fed was cruising on his serve, and then it really dropped off. Meanwhile, Berdy’s didn’t get much better. Oh well, it’s just the first set; let’s see what happens.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:55 pm


Kimmi Says:

23 UE from fed and only 5 from Berdy..that is the story.

Can he come back!

March 30th, 2010 at 9:55 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

Well,

Did we expect that or what? I think we all saw that coming….yikes! Strokes are there when he is in position most of the time, the head is not…

March 30th, 2010 at 9:55 pm


Ben Pronin Says:

Am I a bad person for laughing? That was pretty funny.

Federer isn’t happy though. He’s not going to give this match away that easily.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:56 pm


Polo Says:

Federer never gave Berdych any chance to make errors, that’s why.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:56 pm


jane Says:

Polo – “ulcers” in the plural! I hope you’re kidding; one ulcer would be bad enough. ; )

March 30th, 2010 at 9:57 pm


blank Says:

Everybody who has hardly ever won a match against Federer please line up…there is a generous giveaway going on…by none other than the man himself.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:57 pm


Polo Says:

Federer should just fake an injury and go home. Hahaha! This is so bad that I am even starting to enjoy it.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:58 pm


Eric Says:

But…now he’s back!

March 30th, 2010 at 9:58 pm


Polo Says:

One ulcer for every match that Federer has played since Indian Wells!

March 30th, 2010 at 9:59 pm


blank Says:

He cannot make a mess of easy situations and hope to come out on the winning side all the time.

If he goes out now, I bet he is going to play Monte Carlo.

March 30th, 2010 at 9:59 pm


jane Says:

Well I was marking and had sound on streaming turned down and scores/stats up so I didn’t notice/see all the UEs. I guess that’s the story then. He’s fighting hard for this break now though. Betcha he gets it.

March 30th, 2010 at 10:03 pm


Skorocel Says:

Once again, Federer’s shaky volleying lets him down… Last game of the 1st set: 0-30, easy FH volley, and what would he do? Brick it, of course. 5 minutes earlier, he makes an beautiful FH stop-volley winner, and then when he has an easy put away one, he does this…

March 30th, 2010 at 10:04 pm


blank Says:

I really hope he doesn’t get the break. If he does, as is the new custom, he gives it right back. I want tiebreak.

March 30th, 2010 at 10:05 pm


Kimmi Says:

federer let berdy off the hook on that game! wow!

11 UE, just one game , ouch!

March 30th, 2010 at 10:06 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

uhhh..no comment on the Fed :(…hope he finds a way to come back….UE’s and lack of concentration, no disrepect to Birdy….reminds me of the Baggy match…the other guy just getting the ball in play and making a few plays…meanwhile …Fed has a ton of points on his racket but does the “shankopotomus”…am I wrong here?

March 30th, 2010 at 10:12 pm


Cbeast Says:

Fed just needs to hit some crazy winners to get his confidece back up.But i fear if he does not this game is over.Im a big fed fan and i must say this is painful!
Come on fed

March 30th, 2010 at 10:17 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

Fed 3-1 in UE’s go figure…..

March 30th, 2010 at 10:18 pm


contador Says:

sheeeeesh-

just got home and got the stream up.

i don’t think i want to watch this, fellow fedfans.

45 UE’s….last year the famous broken racquet miami.

indian wells loss. the shaky serra match.

have to accept the federe loss, like the nole one….didn’t want to watch that one either. just disappointment all over again.

berdych deserves the win when fed is playing so awful.

sad cilic went out too.

the good news: soda and roddick are stil in.

okay, skorocel…this horrible performance has to be due to his bad night vision. and that’s my final excuse. : )

get the eyes checked federer!

c’mon.

March 30th, 2010 at 10:23 pm


Skorocel Says:

Per that Arab commentator’s words: Fed can hit a winner too! ;-)

March 30th, 2010 at 10:28 pm


Cbeast Says:

Berdych’s first serve percentage is pathetic.
Fed should kill him.

March 30th, 2010 at 10:29 pm


Cbeast Says:

Come on Fed now is the time !
break break break…………

March 30th, 2010 at 10:31 pm


jane Says:

Long game this one!

March 30th, 2010 at 10:33 pm


Kimmi Says:

Berdy hold a very important game..watch for fed to be broken here…sad but I am afraid it will happen!

March 30th, 2010 at 10:34 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

Fed does not have the mojo yet to me after AO…too many chances…..blows them….we’ll see…go Fed!

March 30th, 2010 at 10:35 pm


Skorocel Says:

If Berdych doesn’t collapse (as he so often does), this one is his to win… 6 BPs gone begging? No way, Roger!

March 30th, 2010 at 10:35 pm


contador Says:

okay where’s that link to the Arab commentating on youtube.

could use a good laugh to lift the spirits.

anyone still have the youtube link?

March 30th, 2010 at 10:35 pm


Kimmi Says:

OK, he prove me wrong..that was the quickest game for fed to hold..maybe maybe here!

March 30th, 2010 at 10:36 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

Last hold by Fed my exact points…movement, serve, aggressive….boom!

March 30th, 2010 at 10:37 pm


Cbeast Says:

Sorry contador I dont have it .
Very good idea though lol, if fed doesnt pick up his game I am gonna go to bed a sad man.

March 30th, 2010 at 10:40 pm


Cbeast Says:

AHHH nice ! Atlast a good point from fed.
Now he must keep it up.

March 30th, 2010 at 10:42 pm


Cbeast Says:

Please fed !!! break!!!!!!!!! COME ON !

March 30th, 2010 at 10:43 pm


Cbeast Says:

ffffff …. this is becoming laptop smashish

March 30th, 2010 at 10:44 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

BTW, Kimmi , Contador, Cbeast, Jane, Blank, etc….even Skorocel…I don’t want to hear any “Monday Morning Quarterbacks” from other posters after the match…easy to say an opinion, but I have the utmost respect for those of you( which I mentioned ) puttin your heart out on your sleeve and opinions during the match. It’s easy to criticize and sound “right on” after….and that, believe it or not, includes you Skorocel, you could have waited….but you didn’t….kudos to you…..Go Fed!

March 30th, 2010 at 10:45 pm


Skorocel Says:

Make that 7 BPs now…

March 30th, 2010 at 10:45 pm


contador Says:

i am very unhappy, Cbeast.

fed has has so many chances and can’t break. : (

March 30th, 2010 at 10:45 pm


Kimmi Says:

Oh Nooo! again..a game to break went begging!

March 30th, 2010 at 10:49 pm


jane Says:

Lots of break chances again for Fed, but no conversions.

March 30th, 2010 at 10:49 pm


Cbeast Says:

Nice post Skeezerweezer thank you.

Oh my,Feds making him work but not finishing it.
I fear that if it goes into a tie-break if..it might be over.

On a good note seems like fed is playing much better! :)

March 30th, 2010 at 10:53 pm


Kimmi Says:

WOOOOW! That game was GREAT..federer please win this…Berdy defence is very good also

March 30th, 2010 at 10:54 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

When is the last time Fed hasn’t went down without a fight….awesome….

March 30th, 2010 at 10:54 pm


Cbeast Says:

Dont give up Contador.
Fed is playing a ton better now.
Plus he has some confidence in tie-break situations thanks to the last match….

Im worried put not calling it quits just yet :)

March 30th, 2010 at 10:56 pm


Kimmi Says:

c;moon fed. At least the tie breaker

March 30th, 2010 at 10:58 pm


Cbeast Says:

Down to the razor blade now.
Fed must hold and MUST win the tie break!
Hold thumbs lol.

March 30th, 2010 at 10:58 pm


jane Says:

Fed’s got a great shot at winning the tiebreak, and then he’ll run away with the third set. Someone described that pattern earlier today I think, or on the other thread (e.g. re: Monaco/Gonza). The top guys are just mentally stronger and can often hang in through the ups and downs better.

March 30th, 2010 at 10:58 pm


Kimmi Says:

JANE..Not yet please! Lat time it was this close he lost!

March 30th, 2010 at 10:59 pm


Von Says:

LOL, jane, it seems Kimmi is now keeping a check on you with your predictions.

____________
Skeezer, you’re being very assertive there my friend.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:01 pm


Cbeast Says:

Looking back at Berdych’s service games I actually think fed will have the edge if it goes to a tie-break.Ahh sht not looking good on feds serve might be speaking to soon….! ahh adrenalin is going nuts!

March 30th, 2010 at 11:01 pm


Cbeast Says:

Come on!!!!!!
Hope these are not my last words.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:03 pm


Skorocel Says:

Great point by Fed!

March 30th, 2010 at 11:03 pm


Skorocel Says:

And he quickly “makes up for it” with an supereasy FH error…

March 30th, 2010 at 11:05 pm


jane Says:

Von – LOL. Mum’s the word then. I don’t want Kimmi to panic.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:05 pm


Cbeast Says:

Jane your prediction better come true!
Please lol

March 30th, 2010 at 11:06 pm


Kimmi Says:

berdycccchhhhhhh! WOW, that shot was there for the taking! Goo Fed!

March 30th, 2010 at 11:07 pm


Von Says:

Jane: Yeah, mum’s the word!! No talking, puhleeze.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:08 pm


Kimmi Says:

YEEEEESSSSS!

March 30th, 2010 at 11:09 pm


blank Says:

Chokedych.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:09 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

Von,

You’re here! Fed won the TB!!!!…here we go :)

March 30th, 2010 at 11:09 pm


Cbeast Says:

YEssssssss!!!! fed pumps his fist!! and shouts ”com on” !!
Ahhhhh I can breath again, my God!

Thanks Jane.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:10 pm


Von Says:

Poor berdych he was as tight as a rubber band in that tie-break. Match even 1-1.

Jane you can now speak. LOL.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:10 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

My question is:

When is Fed going to find his form IF he wins, and. like, has he? What does this statement say to the later rounds? MMMMmmmmm….

March 30th, 2010 at 11:11 pm


Cbeast Says:

5:17 here people, but Ive never been more awake.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:12 pm


Von Says:

Skeeezer: I’ve been here all of the time, but only felt like chiming in when Kimmi was about to lose it for fear of jane’s predictions being in the reverse. LOL

March 30th, 2010 at 11:12 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

“blank Says:
Chokedych.”

Skeezer says; “Classic”

March 30th, 2010 at 11:12 pm


blank Says:

Skeezer, Any new flash news reports? Love them :-)

March 30th, 2010 at 11:12 pm


Von Says:

Cbeast: Do like other people do, stay awake, take a show and then go to work.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:13 pm


Von Says:

Oh WOW, show s/b shower.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:13 pm


Polo Says:

Just got another new ulcer. I hope Berdych gives Federer a good fight in the third. This is going to be really traumatic for him if he loses.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:14 pm


Skorocel Says:

As I’ve said, only Berdych could beat himself in this one – and he indeed did. 3-4 in the breaker, minibreak back, and what follows are 2 easy UEs – and the set goes to Fed. Credit to Roger, though, for reducing that flow of UEs. At something like 40, I would say it was about time…

March 30th, 2010 at 11:15 pm


Cbeast Says:

If federer comes to life now Berdych is a goner.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:17 pm


Kimmi Says:

von..”tight as a rubber band” hahaha that was funny!

C’moon fed don’t give way here…Berdych is back!

March 30th, 2010 at 11:18 pm


jane Says:

Skeeze – I am with blank; a news flash any time would be muchly appreciated.

Okay there it is – level match. Whatever happens, happens. At least it’s gone into a third!

Cbeast – hang in there.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:19 pm


Skorocel Says:

Cbeast: It’s 5:17 here as well ;-) Where are you from?

March 30th, 2010 at 11:19 pm


Von Says:

Skorocel: You’re right about berdych. BTW, you’re up late.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:19 pm


Cbeast Says:

Feds attitude somehow reminds of Basil vs djok

Hope i am wrong

March 30th, 2010 at 11:21 pm


Kimmi Says:

berdy breaks!! just like that..fed dear fed..where is the serve!

March 30th, 2010 at 11:23 pm


Von Says:

jane @ 11:19pm you seem relieved. LOL.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:23 pm


Kimmi Says:

Berdy going for broke on those second serves ..and it works!

March 30th, 2010 at 11:24 pm


blank Says:

Here we go again.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:24 pm


Skorocel Says:

Von: Yeah, I am. And I don’t wanna witness another Baghdatis :-(

March 30th, 2010 at 11:24 pm


Von Says:

Skorocel: I’m keeping my fingers crossed for you and sending Fed good vibes via FedEx.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:26 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

Blank…

I was cut off after reporting about the womens “marathon tea time talka thon rest a thon changeover with a rally a thon boring a thon finale.”

Acutally, not fair. They’re tryin to win like everyone else, it was just “long”…lol

March 30th, 2010 at 11:27 pm


blank Says:

The only silver lining is Baghdatis isn’t as big a choker as Berdych. So where Bag was able to close out, Berdy may not.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:28 pm


jane Says:

Tight match. Just looked at the live scores; the stats for these two are remarkably similar a.t.m. – the difference mainly being in break chances saved. The scoreboard doesn’t have UEs but that’s another factor.

T-Berd holding steady but lots of time still.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:28 pm


blank Says:

Skeezer…lol

No wonder womens tennis is going down the drain. Bring on the Sharapovas and Ivanovichs…I’ll try to be a fan again.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:30 pm


Von Says:

blank: so very true about Berdych, but only time will tell ….

March 30th, 2010 at 11:30 pm


blank Says:

Von, In another 20 mins we’ll know. If this goes the distance, I fancy Fed’s chances…but he has to find a way to break back again though to get there.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:33 pm


Kimmi Says:

errors are piling up from fed again

March 30th, 2010 at 11:35 pm


Von Says:

blank: I’m sure you know that if there’s anyone who can do it, break back, it’s Fed, so fear not.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:35 pm


Seth Says:

Holding serve is something to recommended, Feddy. Just saying you might give it a shot more often.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:35 pm


Seth Says:

*to be recommended

March 30th, 2010 at 11:35 pm


Ben Pronin Says:

50 UEs from Fed and 34 from Berdych. That’s ridiculous.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:36 pm


andrea Says:

oh my…just got back. are we gonna have to eat crow? will berdych pull this off?

i thought for sure the match would be over by now…

March 30th, 2010 at 11:36 pm


Kimmi Says:

15-30 danger federer..where is first serve

March 30th, 2010 at 11:37 pm


blank Says:

I am still apprehensive Von. Over the last 2 – 3 years, outside of the slams, he’s been so erratic.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:37 pm


Seth Says:

He should eat guys like Berdych for a before-dinner snack. Seriously. Non-Grand Slam or not, he shouldn’t lose these matches.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:37 pm


Skorocel Says:

This is a must win game for Fed!

March 30th, 2010 at 11:38 pm


Von Says:

WOW, that was some aggressive BH by Fed at 15-30. It seemed to echjo frustration and anger.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:38 pm


Von Says:

blank: I’m a Roddick fan, so I’ve learnt how to sweat it out to the very last point. Be a braveheart ….

March 30th, 2010 at 11:40 pm


Cbeast Says:

come on fed here is your chance!!
40:0

March 30th, 2010 at 11:42 pm


Skorocel Says:

Jump around, Tomas! ;-)

March 30th, 2010 at 11:42 pm


Von Says:

blank: Here it comes 0-40.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:42 pm


blank Says:

I will :-)

March 30th, 2010 at 11:42 pm


Cbeast Says:

YYYYYEEESSSSS

Now please WIN!!!! Please

March 30th, 2010 at 11:43 pm


sam Says:

Atlast..!!!

March 30th, 2010 at 11:43 pm


Skorocel Says:

If Fed doesn’t convert this, I’m leaving for good…

March 30th, 2010 at 11:43 pm


Von Says:

Skororcel: What are the chances of 3 posters posting at the sem time @ 11:42 pm. LOL.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:43 pm


Seth Says:

Ok, now hold serve, Fed. I repeat, hold serve. It really helps in winning matches.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:44 pm


Skorocel Says:

Thankfully, he does!

March 30th, 2010 at 11:44 pm


jane Says:

Fed gets a break – just at the right time. Nail-biter!

March 30th, 2010 at 11:45 pm


Von Says:

Make the 4 at 1l:42 nd 11:43.

________________
blank: What do I get for being right?

March 30th, 2010 at 11:45 pm


andrea Says:

oy vey….let the berdych meltdown begin????

March 30th, 2010 at 11:46 pm


Kimmi Says:

nervy very nervous games..gooo fed!

March 30th, 2010 at 11:46 pm


Cbeast Says:

Von how about four posters at the same time and you are one of them 11:43 pm

March 30th, 2010 at 11:47 pm


Skorocel Says:

Von: I’m too busy to even notice that ;-) Fed 5-4!

March 30th, 2010 at 11:47 pm


Von Says:

This is a very international thread tonight. Canada, US, Slovakia, Netherlands, et al.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:47 pm


Skeezerweezer Says:

Sorry gang, no news reporting here, after all, I am a fed fan,,, and am nail biting like the rest of you….go fed!

March 30th, 2010 at 11:48 pm


blank Says:

Von, You get a big hug :-)

March 30th, 2010 at 11:48 pm


Von Says:

Cbeast, yes, 4 of us at 11:42 pm and 11:43 pm. How’s that for synchronization!! LOL.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:48 pm


Cbeast Says:

Lol sorry Von didnt see your post to excited!!!!
Fed up 0:30 come on

March 30th, 2010 at 11:49 pm


Von Says:

blank: Mwah, to your hug!! LOL.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:49 pm


stu Says:

the fed has had TEN break points and only managed to convert 2?!

March 30th, 2010 at 11:50 pm


armelwani Says:

Back to 30:30. What’s the matter, Rog??

March 30th, 2010 at 11:50 pm


Kimmi Says:

2 very bad errors..c’moon fed

March 30th, 2010 at 11:50 pm


Skorocel Says:

That missed FH at 15-30 gave Berdych a lifeline…

March 30th, 2010 at 11:50 pm


Von Says:

Cbeast, you and Skorocel sitting on the same bench? LOL. You’re like two expectant fathers. LOOOL

March 30th, 2010 at 11:51 pm


Seth Says:

Setting aside the break points not converted for a moment, the bigger questions is this: Why does Federer keep dropping serve multiple times in a match?

March 30th, 2010 at 11:51 pm


Cbeast Says:

This is crazy, come on fed, dont get back into your shell!

March 30th, 2010 at 11:51 pm


andrea Says:

whaaaaaT? have you heard the news fed? get it over the net…..

March 30th, 2010 at 11:52 pm


blank Says:

Mwah to you too! lol

Let’s see if Fed can close it out from here. Help may come from expected quarters…Berdych.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:52 pm


armelwani Says:

WOW! What a drop shot!

March 30th, 2010 at 11:53 pm


Cbeast Says:

Lol Von I suppose ….
Ill be broken if fed doesnt win
Now break !

March 30th, 2010 at 11:54 pm


Seth Says:

C’mon Fed. Break this clown and end these shenanigans.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:54 pm


armelwani Says:

Please don’t let this go to another tiebreak. I’m not sure it’s good for my blood pressure!

March 30th, 2010 at 11:54 pm


Von Says:

Cbeast: Don’t worry, you’ll remain in one piece. Your guy will win! however, this has TB written all over it again, but the good thing is that berdych does NOT play very well in TBs. So hang on tight….

March 30th, 2010 at 11:56 pm


andrea Says:

shoulda broken him last game….c’mon fed.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:56 pm


Cbeast Says:

armelwani Says:

Please don’t let this go to another tiebreak. I’m not sure it’s good for my blood pressure!

Lol me too me too

March 30th, 2010 at 11:57 pm


Von Says:

I’m rooting for Fed to win because Berdych will just lose in the next round, as the shock of winning would put him in the freeze zone.

March 30th, 2010 at 11:59 pm


Skorocel Says:

Same situation as in the game before: Fed 15-30 up, and he throws the chance away with an easy UE…

March 30th, 2010 at 11:59 pm


Kimmi Says:

tie breaker! oh boy..berdych!

March 31st, 2010 at 12:00 am


andrea Says:

here we go….

March 31st, 2010 at 12:00 am


Cbeast Says:

Come on Fed fans this is it !

March 31st, 2010 at 12:00 am


armelwani Says:

Yikes! Tiebreaker!! Better keep the Bayer nearby…

March 31st, 2010 at 12:01 am


steve Says:

One thing’s for sure: Federer’s getting a lot of tiebreak practice in these matches.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:01 am


Von Says:

Hey guys, take some deep breaths, it’s Tiebreak time. Get your doctors to write a script for some BP medicine. And, one for ulcers for Polo.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:02 am


Von Says:

Berdych just donated a point to Fed.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:04 am


armelwani Says:

I can’t hardly watch. It’s all on Berdych’s racket now…

March 31st, 2010 at 12:05 am


andrea Says:

yeeees!

March 31st, 2010 at 12:06 am


armelwani Says:

That’s the kind of point that is bad for the BP!

March 31st, 2010 at 12:06 am


armelwani Says:

Match Point!! C’mon, Rog!!!

March 31st, 2010 at 12:08 am


steve Says:

It was out by a nanometer.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:08 am


Kimmi Says:

wOWOOOOOW Just WOOOOOOW! C’mooon fed! Big serve

March 31st, 2010 at 12:08 am


Kimmi Says:

noooooooooooooooo!

March 31st, 2010 at 12:09 am


andrea Says:

arrrgghhh.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:09 am


Von Says:

OMG, what a point by fed and then by Berdych!! both guys are playing some WOW shots.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:10 am


Eric Says:

Berdych’s composure in response to that every-so-slightly-out ball just earned him my respect.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:10 am


Cbeast Says:

No way!!!!

March 31st, 2010 at 12:10 am


Kimmi Says:

berdyyyyyyyyyyyy! wow! match point

March 31st, 2010 at 12:10 am


Skeezerweezer Says:

6-5 TB Fed serving, you can’t push a first serve in? C’mon. Then 6-6, you serving, no 1rst serve? Yikes

March 31st, 2010 at 12:10 am


Seth Says:

Absurd.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:11 am


armelwani Says:

So sad! I’m supposed to be able to go to sleep now??

March 31st, 2010 at 12:11 am


stu Says:

wow im in shock

March 31st, 2010 at 12:11 am


Kimmi Says:

federer loses..kudos to berdych..another matchpoint went begging for fed! great match

March 31st, 2010 at 12:11 am


Cbeast Says:

ahhhhhhhhhhh Fed ….
Im of to bed guys …..
cheers ……..
Thanks for the great comments all.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:11 am


Eric Says:

bullshit…

March 31st, 2010 at 12:12 am


Von Says:

Commiserations to Fed fans. I AM SO VERY SORRY HE LOST.

CONGRATS TO BERDYCH’S FANS.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:12 am


blank Says:

Not only no first serve when serving on match point, but also such poor break point conversion rate. Paid the price in the end.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:12 am


Seth Says:

How many MP’s does Fed need these days? On his own serve, no less. This rather blase trend of not kicking his game into gear for the smaller events is going to catch up with him.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:12 am


stu Says:

Eric – I agree, I think that won him the match. You could literally see him getting himself back together, shaking it out while Fed tried to rush the serve..

March 31st, 2010 at 12:12 am


Skeezerweezer Says:

Von,

I didn’t forget you! Thanks for cheering Fed, Good luck with AR, hope he goes all the way :)

March 31st, 2010 at 12:13 am


stu Says:

I know what it is. I think the top 3 are doing this out of respect to Rafa, letting him catch up on some of the points he missed while he was away injured…

March 31st, 2010 at 12:13 am


blank Says:

Berdy deserves this win just for the fact that he didn’t freeze at the end. Total points won 119 each!

March 31st, 2010 at 12:14 am


jane Says:

Sorry to Fed fans. Tight match again, Fed fought hard, similar to Baggy match – you were right about that Kimmi (you know your maestro better than I do).

That said, congrats to Tomas for finally closing out against a top guy. Very surprising win by Berdych, though. He’s not known for being a closer!

No doubt the 61 UEs from Fed helped : / That’s *almost* as bad as Djoko’s 62 UEs vs. Rochus. Sigh. I guess that was the difference. On to clay for Roger, with a little time with the babes before.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:15 am


steve Says:

This is the second time this month Federer has had match point and not converted. He just let his opponents have too many chances.

Congrats to Berdych.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:15 am


rafa Says:

As I said yesterday, half decent berdych should be able to get a W against Current form Federer. Today berdych wasn’t even quarter decent but still managed to win. :D

March 31st, 2010 at 12:16 am


Seth Says:

Yep, complete lame sauce. Time to start acting like the best ever again or time to hang it up. Seriously. I’m a fan, but mailing it like he has lately is weak indeed.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:16 am


Kimmi Says:

even if fed lost, berdy had to bring his game..hang in there and rewarded in the end!

Its still not easy for these guys to beat fed! this is what they have to do!

March 31st, 2010 at 12:16 am


Von Says:

skeezer: You’re welcome! I’m so sorry.. Thanks for the good wishes for my sweetie. I’m hoping ….

March 31st, 2010 at 12:17 am


Seth Says:

*mailing it in

March 31st, 2010 at 12:18 am


blank Says:

Von, Now I am officially cheering for AR to go all the way!

March 31st, 2010 at 12:18 am


Von Says:

blank: Thanks, MWAH for cheering AR all the way!!

March 31st, 2010 at 12:19 am


jane Says:

Ruins the potential Fed vs. Soda pop semi, which I think would’ve been good. They haven’t played on hard since the USO officially and then when Soda got the non-offical win at the exo before the AO, so it would’ve fun been to see that match up.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:20 am


ThyGodisTennis Says:

Ugh. Roger why can’t you serve out a match? Nice 70 mile/hour serve. Maybe you should play at my tennis club. You might win there!

Loser!

March 31st, 2010 at 12:22 am


Kimmi Says:

i think everyone who hits the ball big, a la soderling can beat federer now…he is just too tight in important moments *sigh*

March 31st, 2010 at 12:23 am


ThyGodisTennis Says:

Forget about the Grand Slam I believe this will be the end of the semi streak.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:25 am


Voicemale1 Says:

It was mono. Yeah. That’s it.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:25 am


Ben Pronin Says:

It’s not just tightness. There has to be a reason why Federer is suddenly troubled by big hitters whereas he used to tear them apart. Maybe it’s psychological since he lost to Del Potro. Or almost lost to Roddick. Odd. Oh well, the tournament goes on.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:26 am


andrea Says:

the press conference is gonna be short and not so sweet for fed tonight. after breaking back level in the third, fed’s gonna rue those 2 chuffed net balls when berdych was serving at 5-4.

but after that ball was called out by a c-hair in the TB, berdych surprised by hanging tough. can’t deny that.

at least the stress of having to watch the rest of feds matches is gone.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:26 am


ThyGodisTennis Says:

By the way Fed fans we must expect that when Roger has a chance to serve out a match he can do just that. Freaking pathetic. That is what Sampras had the Roger will never have. Down the line bullet.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:26 am


ThyGodisTennis Says:

Good night all.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:27 am


Von Says:

jane: I told you about those speculations and predictions. STOP puhleeze. LOOOOOL. I just hope you didn’t jinx the other guys. I’m getting very scared of your insight.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:27 am


Von Says:

stu: You’re right about the other top 4 helping Rafa with points. Now he’s the only top 4 left in the tourney. Talk about brotherly love, they’ve got it going ….. and then some …..

March 31st, 2010 at 12:30 am


Kimmi Says:

Monte Carlo here I come!

March 31st, 2010 at 12:30 am


jane Says:

Kimmi – you still have to watch Soda and Verdasco!

March 31st, 2010 at 12:35 am


Skorocel Says:

Congrats to Berdych for his biggest win in what has to be some 1000 years! I’ve thought he would crack (especially after losing that amazing point at 5 all), but boy, did he play superb in those last 3 points! Let’s hope he can keep it up against Verdasco in the quarters…

As for Fed, well, he was mediocre (to say the least) in these 2 MS events, but he can still make up for it during the clay season… If he can somehow turn the screw at the FO and beat a healthy Nadal en route to the title here, I can safely say in front of everybody here on Tennis-x.com that I’ll call him the GOAT. For now, though, it’s back to the drawing board… 4 years in a row without even one single IW or Miami title? Who would’ve thought that after the AO 2007?

March 31st, 2010 at 12:35 am


jane Says:

Von, if I could *really* reverse-predict the future, would things be rosy around here! Maybe I will start betting on whatever I don’t think will happen! LOL.

But seriously – who saw that coming!? Not me. Berdych has never been one to close against top players, nor is he generally good in tiebreaks either.

Sadly, Fed lost that one on his own, nothing to do with me or my insight, or lack thereof.

Then again, never say never and all that crap.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:38 am


Kimmi Says:

verdasco play berdych, he will lose..bad match-up..they played in IW and he was bageled or breadstick..sooo bad.

Soderling V youzhny..soda poooops

March 31st, 2010 at 12:40 am


Kimmi Says:

jane my 12:40 am post was for you

March 31st, 2010 at 12:41 am


steve Says:

It happened in 2007 that he lost early at IW and Miami (after winning the AO without the loss of a set, no less), but he still won three majors that year and stayed at #1.

Berdych played well and held his nerves, and Federer played too sloppy on the big points. There’s no more to say and no more conclusions to draw.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:41 am


Von Says:

jane: I was so very sure Berdych would blow it in the tie-break, so it makes two of us with bad predictions.

I just commented on the article, Why Fed will win Miami, recalling Polo’s comments. LOL.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:41 am


jane Says:

Just sayin Kimmi – don’t go off to Monte Carlo just yet; stick around and watch some matches, even if you can’t watch your faves Fed and Murray. : /

March 31st, 2010 at 12:41 am


Kimmi Says:

ahaaa Ok, I got you. By “Monte carlo here I come” I meant I think fed will get WC in Monte carlo..he did not do well here, he can get some points in MC..maybe

March 31st, 2010 at 12:44 am


OllyK Says:

Sorry Fad fans!! But, since he is not playing MC, he’ll have more than enough time to put all things in his game together for Rome. Don’t worry. He’ll be fine. Just remember last year. :) I must say I’m not shocked this time. Not because this loss was something expected…NOTHING can shock me anymore. Even if Berdych wins the tourney I won’t be shocked…

March 31st, 2010 at 12:44 am


OllyK Says:

…I meant *Fed fans! :D

March 31st, 2010 at 12:46 am


jane Says:

Oh, lolz Kimmi – I thought you meant you weren’t watching till Monte Carlo. Miscommunications.

Well night all. And cheer up Fed fans – he’s still number 1 and holder of 3 of the slams a.t.m.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:48 am


Daniel Says:

Sometimes I wish Fed is more like Nadal!

Serving for the match at 6-5 in tiebreak he should have waited the crowd to calm down after that Hawk eye call in his favor. He just when on to serve and hitted the net while it was still loud. It was a too important point (first serve required) to just go and hit like that…

But Steve is right he lost the match on the big points. When Berdych served to stay alive 4-5 15-30 he hit a forehand into the net and then a slice in the net. I don’t rememmber the last time I saw him miss so many slices before.
Moments of briliant shots and a very high level match overall, pretty insane rallies.

All credits to Berdych, who hang in there and unleash his power strokes when everything seemed lost, not anybody can return in the line after a call like that which set match point to Fed.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:49 am


Kimmi Says:

goodnite all from me too

contador…another sad moment mate! we saw this one coming, didn’t we? oh well…tomorrow!

March 31st, 2010 at 12:53 am


Michael Says:

It was one of the worst displays I have seen from Federer. His erratic forehand became the villian of the piece once again and proved to be his nemesis. Thanks to Berdych who played well below his level to make this a tough fight as otherwise it would have been over in straights. Such was the erratic display from Federer today and despite this he had the match on his hand in the third set at 5-4 and love 30 on Berdych serve. He made lot of unforced errors gift the game to Berdych and the match was taken to tie-break. Here again Federer served for the match at 6-5 to fumble once again with a very weak second serve. Earlier in the first set, he gifted a break by overhitting a easy forehand winner which he would not missed 10 out of 10. But he did today and that was the difference. The result, Federer has not made even the quarter finals of the two important Master Series tournaments and it is a huge blow psychologically and I am afraid of the kind of effect it will have on his morale. Hope Federer recovers from this debilitating loss to a process of full recovery just for the sake of his fans.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:53 am


Skeezerweezer Says:

Skorocel,t,

March 31st, 2010 at 12:35 am Post.

Nice post except the “IF” FO2010 = GOAT? WTF?
LOL…now…I would love to hear some reason behind that…u gonna bring a H2H argument again? If you do…you are “coming out of the closet” as a die hard Rafa fan….ha! :)

March 31st, 2010 at 12:55 am


Michael Says:

Whatever it is, not getting into atleast the quarters of the two important Master series events is a big blow psychologically for Federer and that he lost to the likes of Baghdatis and Berdych makes matter even worse. One only hopes that Federer recovers well from this to the path of recovery.

March 31st, 2010 at 12:59 am


Michael Says:

I would tip Soderling or Nadal to win this title. But one never knows as the likes of Ljubucic might still spring in a surprise. But the way Soderling is playing and with the experience of Nadal in big matches it is better to root for them.

March 31st, 2010 at 1:00 am


Skorocel Says:

Daniel: Exactly my thoughts! That FH at 4-5 15-30 (and the subsequent BH slice which he netted) really killed Fed… Anyway, as you’ve said, hats of to Berdych! Fed had a chance to take the match home at 6-5, but Tomas just didn’t let him to do that. It wasn’t Federer’s errors which won him that breaker – it was his own aggressive play. At times, he was maybe too aggressive, but in the end, it paid dividends – especially in those last 3 points…

March 31st, 2010 at 1:01 am


Fot Says:

Oh well, Roger lost. Honesly, the way he was playing – he deserves to lose! lol! I thought he had turned it around and actually had matchpoint, but he was waaaay off. The only person who played worse than Nadal today was Roger! lol! Anyway – now they can go home and get ready for the clay season. There is absolutely NO pressure on Roger for the clay season this year so whatever happens – happen!

Good night all.

March 31st, 2010 at 1:13 am


rafa Says:

federer in last 21 Master series tournaments-

march 2010 miami- lost to 20 Berdych R32
march 2010 indianwells- lost to 33 baghdatis R32
november 2009 paris- lost to 49 Julien Benneteau R32
august 2009 cincinnati- Winner
august 2009 Canada- lost to 7 Tsonga QF
May 2009 Madrid- Winner
april 2009 Rome- lost to 3 djokovic SF
april 2009 Monte Carlo- lost to 16 Wawrinka R16
march 2009 miami- lost to 3 djokovic SF
march 2009 indianwells- lost to 4 Murray SF
november 2008 paris- W/o to 11 James Blake QF
october 2008 madrid- lost to 4 Murray SF
july 2008 cincinnati- lost to 22 karlovic R16
july 2008 Canada- lost to 22 simon R32
may 2008 Hamburg- lost to 2 Nadal Final
may 2008 Rome- lost to 27 stepanek QF
april 2008 Monte Carlo- lost to 2 Nadal Final
march 2008 miami- lost to 6 Roddick QF
march 2008 indianwells- lost to 98 Mardy Fish SF
october 2008 paris- lost to 21 Nalbandian R16
october 2007 madrid- lost to 25 Nalbandian Final

Winner-2
Final-3
SF-5
QF-4
R16-3
R32-4

Rank of opponents who beat him

1-5 Rank 5 times
6-10 Rank 2 times
11 and higher 12 times

March 31st, 2010 at 1:17 am


Skorocel Says:

Skeezerweezer: You have it black on white. If Federer comes back after such pitiful performances like he showed at IW and Miami and beats everyone including a healthy Nadal en route to his 2nd FO title, he’s the GOAT for me. Hands down!

March 31st, 2010 at 1:19 am


Skorocel Says:

Very interesting (and telling) stat, rafa!

March 31st, 2010 at 1:21 am


madmax Says:

you’re the one to listen to Skorocel, the guy with all the shots, all the advice and bringing a sprinkling of happiness to every forum.

March 31st, 2010 at 1:28 am


Skorocel Says:

Michael: “Earlier in the first set, he gifted a break by overhitting a easy forehand winner which he would not missed 10 out of 10.”

I was thinking about THIS SHOT virtually throughout the whole rest of that 1st set. As far as his UEs go, Roger was really setting “new standards” today :-), but boy, THIS ONE was painful! Brutally painful!

March 31st, 2010 at 1:31 am


Daniel Says:

rafa, one correction: Miami 2010 R16.

March 31st, 2010 at 1:38 am


Daniel Says:

You know what is odd, he was defending pretty well for a 28/29 year old, always returning on the forehand side and the usual slices. His best shots of the day were defensive points which he turn around.

His main problem was his attacking game. He missed FH, backhands and even slices when he wanted to change the rythim or set a slow ball.

Maybe clay will really do him some good, more time and less pace in the ball. He has to return with the same controled agression which earned him AO10 where he was very patiant and killer to finish off points.

March 31st, 2010 at 1:47 am


Skorocel Says:

Fot: “The only person who played worse than Nadal today was Roger!”

Yeah, but he won, didn’t he? ;-)

March 31st, 2010 at 1:47 am


rafa Says:

Daniel, oops sorry. I messed it.

March 31st, 2010 at 1:48 am


Michael Says:

Skorocel, I agree. As a Federer fan I was extremely disappointed with his level of play. It was plain pathetic to say the least. It seemed as though even if Berdych wanted to gift away the match, Federer would just not take it. I would have appreciated if Berdych had played really well to beat Federer like Baghdatis did. But today he well played below his potential and yet Federer could not finish him and that appears quite ominous for me. Sorry Fed, if you cannot lift your game from now on that continuous streak of grand slam semis is under severe threat. I hope as usual Federer looks really a different player in grand slams as he does always surprising us all who are writing him off.

March 31st, 2010 at 1:55 am


Michael Says:

Skorocel, Frankly I thought Nadal played much better than Federer did. Federer was just spraying his forehands far and wide and he was continuously missing easy shots. His poor first serve percentage too did not help matters. Nadal on the other hand had no such problems against Ferrer and he was beaten in rallies by nice stroke making by Ferrer. The difference between Federer and Nadal today was Federer lost points by making unforced errors while Nadal lost points when Ferrer was able to hit clean winners.

March 31st, 2010 at 1:58 am


Michael Says:

Fot, I completely agree with you, Federer just did not deserve to win today.

March 31st, 2010 at 2:00 am


Fot Says:

Yes, he lost…but you know what… We can’t take that AO away from him! Pete said once that if you win ONE grand slam a year – you’ve had a great year. Roger has already had a great year. I’m still ok…He’s still my man and I’ll be backing him again in his next tournament (whenever that will be)!

Night all – it’s 1:40am my time! Way past my bedtime.

March 31st, 2010 at 2:34 am


Skorocel Says:

Michael: Though it’s always painful to see Fed lose (especially after blowing some MPs here and there), I wouldn’t be that saddened by these two losses. IF he starts losing earlier in the slams, THEN there’s real need to be concerned in the Fed kingdom. Berdych, even though a choker with capital C, is no pushover. The same about Baghdatis. They both had Fed on the ropes a couple of times in the past, but failed. At some time, this trend had to end…

I think Berdych played really well today, and even though there was some „usual“ choking from his side (especially in that 2nd set breaker, where when he got the minibreak back at 3-4 and had a real chance to bring back the pressure to Fed with 2 serves, he commited I think 2 UEs which would’ve been winners), he played TWO GREAT RALLIES from MP down in that 3rd set breaker, winning both of them thanks to HIS aggressive play. Not many can do that against Fed – even against such sh.tty Fed like he was today…

March 31st, 2010 at 2:44 am


madmax Says:

FOT, i know. I will be interested to read Federer’s presser and see what he feels he needs to do and how he can take his game forward. He’s been here before.

He didnt play brilliantly in these two tournys last year, it seems to be a repeat, and then went on to win cinny and we all know what happened the rest of the year. So –

c’moon federer! sort it out!

March 31st, 2010 at 4:08 am


rafa Says:

Q. Obviously backhand was off tonight. A lot of errors. Unusual for you. What was the problem out there? He was playing well, obviously.
ROGER FEDERER: Yeah, it was a tough match. Look, it’s no secret I’ve struggled the last, what is it, five matches I’ve played here in the States. It’s disappointing, I think, my performance overall, if I’ve got to analyze right now after the match.
But I fought as much as I could under the understood circumstances with my game having issues at the moment. Definitely lack timing. I don’t know where that comes from because I played so nicely in Australia. So it’s disappointing to not be able to back it up.
Maybe the sickness did take it out of me more than I thought. Maybe the break was quite long. I’m kind of used to those things, and I still, you know, think I could have done much better.
I was a couple points away this week and then also in Indian Wells had my chances. It’s disappointing having had a chance to move on. Maybe I had a chance to sort of turn around my game.
But, you know, we’ll see how it goes forward.

Q. What will you do to step back and assess this one?
ROGER FEDERER: Well, this is not stuff you can go too harshly on yourself. I tried everything I could out there. I thought he played a good match. It’s hard to judge his performance, because I look at mine only.
When I’m not playing my best, it’s hard to judge my opponent, to be quite honest. But he’s a good player, so I knew the danger coming in, especially with the timing issues I’ve had already the last couple weeks.
But I thought I worked hard enough to iron those things out. Maybe I did. It was still the confidence lacking, and that’s what kind of cost me these last two tournaments.
Only fuels my desire to go back to the practice courts and come back even stronger. I don’t like to lose these type of the matches.
I’m looking forward to the clay court season now. It helps to kind of move on to a different surface. Then this has nothing to do too much with the clay court season, and that helps.
So I’m looking forward to that. Definitely need to practice harder, and that’s what I’ll do.

Q. Your first match you said that you felt the conditions were a bit strange and the balls were flying all over the place. Do you think that was the case tonight as well, or was it different?
ROGER FEDERER: I’m a bit confused with how I’m feeling the ball at the moment. Sometimes it flies and sometimes it doesn’t. It’s a lot to do with how you feel at the moment.
Tonight it definitely felt really slow. Normally Tomas or myself serve around 10 to 20 aces a match. It was almost impossible to get it past the other guy, you know, with the serve.
So conditions are so slow sometimes here, and then during the day they fly like crazy. So I guess it’s got something to do with the conditions, but the issue is really my game. The conditions, usually I get used to those after a couple matches at the latest.

Q. Berdych, you’ve known a lot years that he has top 10 talent, right?
ROGER FEDERER: I would think so.

Q. What is it, consistency you think?
ROGER FEDERER: Yeah, if you look at the top 10 the last years, they’ve always been tough. It’s not so easy just to get in there and hang around, you know, just think it’s normal to be in there.
It definitely needs a special effort and a special sacrifice, and, you know, then you need some serious mental skills to handle the traveling and everything. It’s not so easy. With different surfaces and injuries, it’s demanding.
Or you do it the easy way and just win a big one. Then you’re in if for a little bit and then you get better chances and seeds. But I would have thought he would have made his move a long time ago to be in the top 10.
Seems like he’s coming back strong. That’s good to see, because he’s and incredible player and he’s got incredible shots. Almost let this match off the hook again. He got lucky tonight.

Q. Did you think after you won the second set that you were then gonna win the match at that point?
ROGER FEDERER: Well, I thought it was back to even, if not maybe a slight advantage for me because I had the momentum.
It was a huge opportunity for him to maybe snatch victory in straight, because I kind of handed him the first set. Then in the second set I had so many chances it felt like I was gonna hump me at the end and then he didn’t, so I was kind of happy with that.
Look, I never felt great the whole night. I just fought with what I had. I knew it was gonna be a tough third set, because thank God he wasn’t in too many of my service games in the second set, which made it a bit easier for me to relax and concentrate on the return games.
But, look, I had tons of chances at the end. Match point was my serve, I mean, what more can I do? I tried everything I could. It’s just not happening for me at the moment.

March 31st, 2010 at 5:00 am


skeezerweezer Says:

Skorocel,

“beats everyone including a healthy Nadal en route to his 2nd FO title, he’s the GOAT for me”…..

So…..let me get this straight, IYO, Fed in not GOAT now, with 16 GS titles.

BUT, he will be, IYO, if….he plays through the field and win FO……but wait! He has to beat Rafa and hope Rafa gets through the draw, which is has no control over.

And then IYO he is GOAT.

Dude, you got to come up with a better argument than that!

Rog pretty much summed up his performance in his interview for me……now the issue is….what is he going to do about it or can he do anything about it?

Congrats to Birdy…

March 31st, 2010 at 11:43 am

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