Murray v Raonic, Djokovic v Nishikori In Chase For No. 1; ATP Finals SF Picks And Pans

by Sean Randall | November 18th, 2016, 10:17 pm
  • 113 Comments

The final weekend of the ATP season is upon us and history will be made as either Andy Murray or Novak Djokovic will finish 2016. In 48 hours or so we’ll have that answer.

Or perhaps sooner, but that would take some upsets, which the trend line simply doesn’t agree with. Both Milos Raonic and Kei Nishikori have huge hills to climb if they are to upset Murray and/or Djokovic.

So is anyone betting against a Murray-Djokovic winner-take-all final Sunday? Not me. On to my picks.


Andy Murray v Milos Raonic
It seems like almost every event Murray runs into Raonic, doesn’t it? Well, that because they do play a lot, and a lot in London. The two met in the Queen’s final, the Wimbledon final and now in the ATP year-end semis. And they were to have played a few weeks ago in the Paris semis before Raonic withdrew with a quad injury.

That withdrawal gave Murray the No. 1 ranking. Now Raonic can virtually take it away (assuming Djokovic wins later). But I don’t see happening quite that way.

Murray’s won 22 straight matches, which ties his career-best from earlier in the year, and he matches up well with Milos who just doesn’t have the variety or the leg speed to hurt the Scot in return games. And the court is quick, but not quick enough for Milos, I believe.

Plus, Murray leads 8-3 in their head-to-head winning the last seven. So maybe Milos toughs out a tiebreaker or Murray finally feels the pressure of No. 1, but it’s hard not to like Murray in this one.

If you are a Milos fan or just anti-Murray kind of lad, there’s some hope. Raonic said after Wimbledon he would watch the tape, correct the mistakes he made against Murray in that final. However, I never saw much from him in the Cincinnati semifinal and I really don’t know what he can cook up here to surprise Murray.

So if Murray serves well, plays solid defense like he did today, that should be enough. Raonic will have to serve huge, go on the attack and keep points short. He has that ability and he’s beaten Murray three times, I just don’t think he can pull it off with what’s at stake for the Scot.

“Milos obviously serves big, goes for his shots. He moves forward when he has the chance. I think he probably likes the conditions here since it’s a little bit quicker,” said Murray Friday. “You don’t normally get loads of opportunities against the big servers. It comes down to whether or you take them when you do get those chances. When I’ve played him this year, I’ve created a few opportunities. I’ll need to do the same tomorrow if I want to win.”

And I think he’ll have a few more opportunities tomorrow.
The pick: Murray in two

Novak Djokovic v Kei Nishikori
If it seems like almost every event…wait! Well, yes, Novak Djokovic and Kei Nishikori do play a lot. In fact, this will be their sixth meeting of the year! And all have gone to Djokovic, and really this rivalry has been one-sided since Nishikori shocked Novak in the 2014 US Open semifinals.

Since then, Djokovic has dominated winning 9 straight over the Japanese, losing just three total sets. And that run includes a drubbing at the ATP Finals last year when Djokovic destroyed Nishikori 6-1, 6-1.

I’m not expecting that, not at all. Rather, I like how Kei’s played this week against Wawrinka and Murray, though he faded today against Cilic in what was a meaningless match in terms of this event. So I expect a much tougher affair tomorrow.

“I just tried to focus today’s match,” said Nishikori following his loss today to Cilic. “Unfortunately, it was a tough loss. But hope I can play better tomorrow. I will try to think tonight or tomorrow what I have to do to beat Djoko. I mean, I’m obviously not playing bad.”

No, your not Kei, but in this matchup, Djokovic is just too strong in every department, even Kei’s strength – the backhand. So if Djokovic plays well like he’s been doing and playing with confidence, he’ll win. Meanwhile, Nishikori will really have to serve big to get free points and keep Djokovic off balance with his aggression and court positioning.

But this weekend I think Djokovic has the motivation of putting the personal issues in the past and getting back to winning. So far he’s done just that and now he also has the No. 1 ranking which is squarely on his racquet.

“That’s obviously something that you wish for, I mean, as a player, to have, I guess, everything in your hands, not to depend on other players,” Djokovic said Thursday. “In this particular case, I’m glad that it’s like that.

“Everything has been going, as I said, in a positive direction,” he added. “I’ve been playing better and better as I proceed in the tournament. I have now a day of rest. I’m looking forward really. It’s the last couple matches of the year hopefully. One thing is for sure: I’m going to give it all on the court and see what happens.”
The pick: Djokovic in two

Could we really get a Raonic-Nishikori final? Haha. Stranger things have happened, but I just don’t see it. Granted it’s been a messed up, if not forgettable tennis season for many fans with Sharapova’s doping bust, Federer’s knee, Rafa’s wrist and the weather issues. So missing out on a dream final would almost be a fitting conclusion tot 2016. And we know the tennis gods can be cruel. But not that cruel. At least I don’t think.

Tennis Channel has live coverage of Murray-Raonic at 9am ET and then Djokovic-Nishikori at 3pm ET.


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113 Comments for Murray v Raonic, Djokovic v Nishikori In Chase For No. 1; ATP Finals SF Picks And Pans

jane Says:

fun stat, specifically for 2016:

andy vs milos: 5-0
nole vs kei: 5-0

hope everyone is well.


Van Persie Says:

I really wish to see a NolAndy final. Should be a good test for both.


Travis Bickle Says:

I hope Murray beats Raonic, or Raonic gives him a semi-final walkover second tournament in a row.

Because, it would be really lame for Djoker to get #1 ranking by not facing and beating Murray. It would perhaps be correct by ranking numbers, but somewhat illegitimate for me.

I would think every true tennis fans wants the #1 to be settled by the Djoker-Muzza direct clash in the last match of the year. Perfect ending and deserved glory to the winner!


Van Persie Says:

Yep TB,

I would also add, that we had already Andy-Nishi, Nole-Raonic match at this YEC, plus we never had Andy-Novak final here.


Van Persie Says:

Would be ironic to have a Raonic-Nishi final :D


Margot Says:

Being British, I like irony VP, but perhaps in this case I’ll make an exception. ;)
Meanwhile:
COME ON ANDEEEEEEE!


J-Kath Says:

Golly whisky what a thought!
Ouch – that brings forth all sorts of superstitious demons.


Willow Says:

Sorry but i dont give Kei a sniff of hope against a more fresher and rested Novak, and Kei although hes through still lost to Cilic, so not exactly a confidence booster, probably 1 and 1 again, i think Murray and Raonic will be two tight sets with TBs, with Murray coming through ….


chrisford1 Says:

“Granted it’s been a messed up, if not forgettable tennis season for many fans with Sharapova’s doping bust, Federer’s knee, Rafa’s wrist and the weather issues.”

If that is the standard of a messed up, forgettable year in tennis for Sean Randall, using his “some fans” persona, then that is what 2017 and years to come are likely to be as well for him. Because the time of Fedal is drawing to a close and the Maria Marketing Machine of the WTA is problematic in terms of rebuilding it and keeping Maria as the premium brand.

2016 was hardly unforgettable. Kerber, Garbine Muguruza, and American Monica Puig won huge. The very charismatic and fun to watch Domi Cibulkova won the Championships.
We had the year Djokovic held all 4 majors, the 1st in 47 years. His career Slam completed. Then the charge of Andy Murray who combined with Novak’s funk, overhauled a huge point lead by Novak to become #1. Now each of the Big 4 have done it. Andy got back to winning Majors and repeated as gold medalist. Juan Martn del Potro showed again what could have been…Jack Sock, Thiem, Kyrgios (at least on court performace) all progressed. Stan fans saw him do it again. The Asian market for the sport continues to grow.

A forgettable year? My ass! And a down to the wire perhaps, duel for #1, awaits. Finally, Davis Cup. Delpo and the Argentinian squad go to face Cilic, Coric and team in Croatia.

And before 2017 starts, there will be discussions about significant rule changes than may happen in 2017. Elimination of the “let”, 10 points for deciding doubles sets and some singles at the Challenger level. More control of MTOs. Things that will get many discussions and debates from interested fans.


chrisford1 Says:

“2016 was hardly unforgettable……” Whoops, leave out the “un”!!


Willow Says:

I Think it just goes to show what a big draw both Federer and Nadal are in the world of tennis, even though neither have played for months, and even though neither are the players they once were, and yet they are still the two most loved players on tour ….


Willow Says:

I Want Murray in the final, and also want him to win the title, and i dont care who he faces either, the two that deserve to get there will get there, it doesnt make Murrays victory any less worthy, or Novaks either just because they dont happen to face each other for the title ….


J-Kath Says:

Willow Wisdom pretty bang on.

Slight inclination : I’m inclined to give Raonic a set and also Kei a set.


Willow Says:

And shouldve said as well as the number 1 ranking ….


Skeezer Says:

@cf1,
Re; forgettable
Sean said “for many fans”, guess that didn’t include you.


Daniel Says:

Murray leaving dangerously, second straight service game where Raonic had multiple BP’s. Raonic returns are much improved.


J-Kath Says:

Andy not quite up to form – so far.


Farah Diba Says:

Oh!Andy have trouble to closing out the set..shoot!I forgot to give him my Supermoon power today..Be ready Andy!Here goes—->>kling!klang!klung!


J-Kath Says:

Milos 12 unforced errors vs 4 by Andy. Hope it stays that way.


FedExpress Says:

Nole playing only mental midgets so for and winning and andy struggelinh against them

nole win this tournament. murray was no 1 by accident. Had the luck of the draw since WImbledon.


FedExpress Says:

down set and a break.

murray done. nole no 1.


Colin Says:

A dismally limp performance from Andy so far. He looks drained.

Milos is playing very well, and above all looks confident. He is perhaps not at his absolute best, but today he doesn’t need to be.


Daniel Says:

Tiebreak.

Another year and andy can lose before finals. Will he never reach a final in WTF? Let’/ see how TB will play out


Daniel Says:

4-1 Murray, kust keep the minibreak. One more for insurance


Daniel Says:

4-3 and 2 serves. Moment of truth


Daniel Says:

Yeah, third set.


jalep Says:

Woot, poor Milosh over-hitting on a couple big points. Andy, come on! Serve it out, buddy.


Farah Diba Says:

C’mon Andy!Don’t give up!!Be strong!


Farah Diba Says:

And where the heck Milos injury’s goes?He’s running like a rabbit out there!Da@#!


jalep Says:

🤦 I can’t watch.


Willow Says:

Jalep me neither pftt, ive lost the will to live ….


FedExpress Says:

you cant choke more than murray did when serving for the match twice


Danica Says:

Wow, did not expect this!!!


FedExpress Says:

nadal in 2010
nishi and raonic this year

murray has beaten the longest match record thrice


Willow Says:

God i feel sick ….


FedExpress Says:

pure comedy from both player but especially from murray


jalep Says:

10-9 Andy……


FedExpress Says:

crowd disgusting

best wtf moment: corwod booing murray when he plays fed

murray will get beatn tomorrow easily

too much energy spent


Farah Diba Says:

YES!!!!!!!HAIL SIR ANDY!!WOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOO!!!!!


jalep Says:

Hahahaha! He made it! His first WTF final. Bravo Andy, Brav-O

Whew, Willow.


Willow Says:

What is it with this current world number 1 talk from Mark Petchey grr, hate that expression, like somehow they dont believe he will hang onto it, what gives ? ….


Willow Says:

Hi Jalep phew indeed lol, i feel so sick right now, and ive lost all feeling in my little legs ….


Daniel Says:

That was tense. Was checking scores and when murray blew match point on serve thought Raonic would win.

First final, Andy did his part. Now let’s see if Djoko will deliver or Kei spoil the party.


jalep Says:

Bravo to Milos too, though I really wouldn’t have liked him winning and I didn’t know how much until this match. His day is coming, I think.

Congrats, cheers to all Andy Fans! Courageous.


J-Kath Says:

Willow: Thank goodness. Milos did take one set (like I thought – sorri) and got the next 2 – playing B+ tennis.

Good to see comments from Farah, Danica, Jalep. And FedExpress entitled to his – ….

And where is Margot?


J-Kath Says:

Oh – also Daniel – fair comments.


jalep Says:

Hi, Willow. You can relax now. Well, until…you know… the next stomach turner.


Willow Says:

Jalep indeed tough being a fan ;-)) ….

J-Kath, Margots probably passed out behind her sofa, get the smelling salts, and a stiff drink ready, come out Margot lol ….


J-Kath Says:

There is another very important match coming up… I thought Kei would get one set but Nole would win it. Will we survive it?


Margot Says:

OMG! OMG! OMG!
I need ALCOHOL!
Just crawling out from behind my sofa Willow, but I am jabbering
and slobbering….
Milos played sooooo well, damn him ;)


J-Kath Says:

Willow – I rattled/caressed 14 crystals while sipping from a whisky and still felt exhausted.


Willow Says:

LOL J-Kath whatever works ….

Novak in two my prediction, and it wont even be close, oh theres two ….


J-Kath Says:

Agree Margot – but wee Andy was not as fluid and clinical as he was against Stan – he’s bone weary me thinks.


Farah Diba Says:

Andy played 3hr 21 min against Kei and came back with a BANG! against wawa..And today he played 3hr 38 min..Could he project another strong come back tomorrow?[especially against The Great Nole]My logic head said ‘Impossible,impossible’ but my kneecap said ‘Possible!Possible!’…Who’s wrong who’s right?Let’s find out tomorrow..

PS…Yo Andy..Not only you have to take an ice bath but you have to eat,drink,breath,sleep with ice..must repair those tired muscles bro..


Travis Bickle Says:

Murray wins another match by playing far from his best. That is something great players have to know how to do!

Regarding that post above citing his long matches in succession, you have to know that Andy has an amazing stamina and recovery capabilities. Because of that, it was dumb of him to give an interview to Daily Mirror in which he said the following statements:

“I have played against players and thought: “They won’t go away” or “They don’t seem to be getting tired.”

“Have I ever been suspicious of someone? Yeah. You hear things.”

“If it’s purely physical and you’re watching someone playing six-hour matches over and over and showing no signs of being tired, you’d look at that.”

Link to his quotes here:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-3543766/Maria-Sharapova-s-drugs-ban-progress-tennis-according-Andy-Murray.html


J-Kath Says:

Ah Travis: So right. Andy has so far played 3 hr+ matches x 2
but not on the same day. And he is looking real, real tired. Nole is in for a treat on Sunday – Andy was B+ today – imagine he will be B- tomorrow. One speculates to accumulate so place your bets if you like.

PS: Did you see today’s match?


Willow Says:

Would love to see a competitive second semi, to see both players get to the final on an even keel, been as Andys spent so much more time on court than Novak ….


chrisford1 Says:

Good match for both Milos and Andy. Andy – Tough Bugger, as Wog Boy would say. Andy has had a looooong year winning events , or at least almost always going deep. Still has some gas in the tank and lots of motivation for beating whoever he faces in the Final. If it’s Kei somehow, Andy goes for his 1st Championship trophy. In the last 13 years, someone not named Roger or Novak has only won twice. Like the French Open in the Era of Rafa – this one is a tough one to get on anyone’s bucket list. And f he faces Novak, obviously it is not just the virgin Championship win, but #1 and good odds of keeping it a while as Novak’s points from winning everything 1st half of 2016 dry up.

And Milos? A scholar-athlete who is looking like he is ready to vie for Masters and Majors. All that hard work, mental strengthening, mobility training and ideal mindset to learn and grow is paying off. I predicted he’d win a major in the next three years, most likely Wimbledon. Let’s see.


Travis Bickle Says:

J-Kath,
I saw only last hour of the match (after 3-3 in the third), and enjoyed it very much. Last 4 games, despite being a WTA-like, were so fun to watch. And then a long tiebreak. Who says this tennis year is “messed up” due to Fedal absence (I guess it was S. Randal above)??? For me this is exciting as it gets… great year, once in a century achievement of 4 GS in a row happened this very year, great fight for year-end #1, etc…
Randal and his fellow Fedal fans are about to enjoy that amazing competition called IPTL in a few weeks. Not me :-(

CF,
I disagree with you about Raonic.
First of all, it bugs me that he lied about torn muscle 2 weeks ago when he surrendered that semi in Paris.
Secondly, he doesn’t look ready to me – physically fragile, mentally weak. He choked the match today, he choked against Novak in round robin, and many other times… Not champion, nor GS-winning material in my opinion. Also he totally lacks backhand – big minus!


J-Kath Says:

Okey-doke Travis.
Enjoy the Nole match.


Willow Says:

I Love watching Fedal play, they havent played in months yet millions still love to watch them, even in an exho, anyhow sorry good luck to Murray in tomorrows final ….


FedExpress Says:

just retire kei you mug. useless as it gets.

nole will win the tournament.murrray mentally too tensed vs him and above all physically exhausted.


Markus Says:

It does not look good for Murray. Djokovic has this against Nishikori who is not really top 4 caliber. Then we all know what happens when Djokovic plays Murray. It”s only fair that Djokovic gets the year end number 1. With 2 slams and completing his set iof slams Novak had the better year and deserves it. I’m happy enough that MurrY had a taste of number 1 albeit a short time only.


skeezer Says:

Well you all should have known that this draw was heavily in Novaks’ favor and Murrays draw was Mt. Kilimanjaro.
It’s too bad the draw was this way, hate to see #1 determined that way, but it is what it is.
Despite all that, Murray has persevered through the competition and is stepping into the boxing ring to fight regardless. No excuses AM, just try your best. You had a supercalifragilistic year.


FedExpress Says:

never seen a useless player like kei the past 12 months


Willow Says:

Novak looks very good, but to be honest this is pretty pathetic from Kei, and i agree with Markus in that Murray will probably be too gassed, just hope he can keep it close in the final ….


Van Persie Says:

Yep Skeezer,

Djoko plays a guy from “group of death” atm. Hmmmm…


Willow Says:

Agree with you Skeezer ,really dissapointing, all the GS champions in one half, was quite dissapointed Stan didnt make the semis, as he plays big against Novak, and isnt intimidated by him ….


Willow Says:

Kei lost to Cilic so wasnt exactly a confidence boost ….


Van Persie Says:

Thiem played much better then Nishi


Margot Says:

Yes VP but Kei is also “gassed” from being in the “Group of Death.”
And agree with Willow. I think Stan would’ve at least made this a contest.
And OMG agreeing with FedExpress. Oh well, there’s a first time for anything.


Margot Says:

And the “Group of Death” didn’t have a day off either.


Van Persie Says:

Djoko beat last year Nishi with 6-1, 6-3 or something like that at YEC…1 match round robin, Nishi was fresh.


Markus Says:

Nishikori is so overrated.


jalep Says:

In Kei’s defense, he doesn’t tighten up like this vs Stan or Raonic. It’s really about playing Novak and Andy. Especially vs Novak. Andy vs Kei matches can be good – especially over 5 sets.

He’s just out-matched vs Nole here. I wish Kei would have at least remained focused and beat Cilic in straight sets for the 200 ranking points. Sheesh. And it’s not like Raonic is so much better or consistent than Kei or has any sort of good record vs Nole and Andy in big matches. And as for Raonic winning GS’s, it remains to be seen. Kei leads the h2h vs Raonic and doesn’t get overly tight vs Raonic or Stan – check it out.

Kei plays like he has PTSD vs Nole. Flashbacks, nightmares…
Jelena looking gorgeous and happy :)


Willow Says:

If i were watching this match live, i think i would walk out, or ask for a refund, thank goodness im at home, so i can switch the TV over :-( ….


Markus Says:

This would have been more interesting with Stan instead of Kei.


chrisford1 Says:

Travis – We shall see on Milos. The backhand has improved, the mobility has sharply ome up, as has Raonic’s mental knowledge on how to construct points needing less moving around. The ATP is talking about speeding a few courts up. That may be a factor too. Me, I want Djokovic to find a new practice partner, though in a way, it is great that Novak is working with the next wave. Mentoring, tips, time to practice with the sort of guys that get the trophies they seek. Guys who take over when the Big 4 all leave.


jalep Says:

Bravo Nole! He’s back.


Willow Says:

I Also agree with Fedexpress in that these players are mental midgets, alot of talent no doubt, but they lack between the ears ….


J-Kath Says:

Nishikori can not recover from long matches. His match with Andy wiped him out. He is very slender, small and although he can show some great tennis, he will never win a GS…he simply does not have the stamina. Cilic had a great victory over him and now Nole.


Giles Says:

Oh nooooo! Faker in the final. Hope this is the last boob throwing celebration we endured in 2016. Come on Andeeeee


courbon Says:

Margot-Last 3 years Novak did not have day off in Finals…( number 1 always starts second day )
Murray group was stronger but not really “group of death”.Best player , apart from Murray and Novak, was Raonic and he was in Novaks group.
Thiem and Nishi pretty equal.Just Stan was stronger then Gael…
Listen, Murray will probably win tomorrow, he plays great but…he already came to this tournament playing a lot.He did not have to play Vienna but he wanted number 1. So, if he lose tomorrow because is tired then its not only bads luck..it’s also choices of tournaments you play.
Good luck for tomorrow, and by the way, one friend from USA would like me to put a Yourth for him-he thinks leaving USA…guess why?(-:

Travis-You have memory like a elephant.Very funny, old fashion cynical post…


Van Persie Says:

Margot,

On paper Andy’s draw was more difficult, but now, I would say the were pretty balanced, after I have seen the performances.


Van Persie Says:

Thanx Courbon, you came with the better arguments ;)


chrisford1 Says:

marcus – With all the points Novak has to defend 1st half of next year, and the two neck and neck in points with no one else close, Murray will be back to #1 – a near certainty – if he does not win this Final.
Think of what it will take with Doha, AO, Dubai, IW, Miami, Monte Carlo, Madrid, Roma, French Open. Nole nearly has to run the table. Only places he can pick up points Dubai, MC, Roma. Everywhere else, he loses if he doesn’t win.
Andy will be more than a 1-week one shot wonder as #1. Don’t think he will ever catch up to the other 3 of the Big 4 in weeks as #1, but double digits are coming, in my opinion.

On Novak-Kei….Novak played well, but Kei again fell apart in the latest UniQlo dream match. Still paying for his 2014 USO upset, I guess. Djokovic is in his head, for sure!


Willow Says:

Nice to see you here Courbon, and i do apologize for been a bit whiny ;-) ….


courbon Says:

Van Persie- Sorry…(-:


courbon Says:

Willow-Hi there. You are right-match was boring..;unless you are Novak fan.Nikishori does not have stamina.
Murray-Raonic match was brilliant!
But, I think is pretty equal tomorrow.While Mrray is more tired , he is on the “wave” right now…Is Novak back? We dont know…
I was thinking about you on Monday when there was that super moon…I thought, Willow must be dancing on some field or sacrificing lamb in the back garden…


Van Persie Says:

No worries Courbon, I was really grateful. Saturday evening, hard for me to switch my toughts in English :D…


jalep Says:

When has Stan ever made a WTF final? And when he’s been to the WTF SF — Novak crushed him both times they met. Forgettable record at WTF for Stan.


Margot Says:

Courbon: that was then this is now. But I agree no group should have a day’s advantage over the other. It’s not fair whoever’s doing it. The USOpen sorted that out, can’t see why the WTF can’t. Start on Saturday not Sunday. Easy.
It’s ironic indeedy, that word again, that for Andy to have a shot at Nole he had to play so many tournaments that he comes to the WTF knackered and unable to defend No1.
I am confident he will lost tomorrow BUT, as he has said 2017 is when he intended to target No 1, I am equally confident that he will do it again in the very near future, and hang onto it a bit longer……hopefully.


Willow Says:

Courbon lol, yeah saw it and it was beautiful, too bloody cold though this time of year for going skyclad, at least not this time ;-)) ….


Margot Says:

Courbon, we, or at least me, couldn’t see that “darn moon.” UK was covered in cloud. :(


Willow Says:

True that Jalep, but i just think we might have had a more competitive match this time, all depends on which Stan shows up, and he does play big against Novak, still didnt happen so its irrelevant !….


Willow Says:

Courbon and i dont have a garden ;-)) ….


Margot Says:

jalep: Andy has never made a WTF final before….Forgettable record Andy had…before……;)
Bless, such a “late developer.” :)


jalep Says:

That was a dumb match – the last dead rubber vs Cilic. Kei went out and won the first set then lost his focus. Kei has a good enough record vs Cilic off grass and fast hc. It didn’t help Kei to take it easy or save what was left for Nole, knowing it was a dead rubber. He’s not going to beat Nole any time soon if he remains so overwhelmed by the occasion.


Wog Boy Says:

Nole took second best from the “group of death” to cleaners that Andy needed three sets to beat in RR.

Andy had a scare of his life and lot of luck to beat second best from “rigged” that Nole beat in two in RR.

Of course there is always explanation for that if you listen some of those pathetic posters.


courbon Says:

Margot-Agree, they should arrange differently.But, it is best of 2, so its not like is a Grand Slam.I just think, Murray came to tournament tired, which is normal.I’m not sure about Novak winning…we will see-lets best man win, right?
Andy will be number one next year for some period-Novak has too much to defend.I understand your disapointment, I’v been there before ( and other Novak fans )…cest’la vie.
My view of the moon was also pathetic…

Willow-But you still sacrificed lamb in the living room, right?

Van Persie-I’m aslo tired..my wife went to Montpellier to watch concert of “The Cure” and I’m watching the kids…let me tell you, I’m probably more tired the Milos and Andy together…( piano lesson, tennis tournament for kids, cook three meals,make them do homework, repair anthena on the roof, change tyre on the car, feed the cats, kick out neighbours goat from the garden…it did not stop!!)
Have a goodnight-speak tomorrow!


jalep Says:

Anyway Delpo will fix Cilic next weekend :D Vamos!


Van Persie Says:

Lol Courbon,

Lovely wife you have. I also like ” The Cure”

Good night back :)

P.S. Did you milk that goat first?


courbon Says:

VP¨: No way you can catch him ( by the way, I called him Archibald ).
Lovelly animals but they have habit of going on the top your cars…
The Cure? My favorite band of 80’s along side of Pixies, Depeche Mode, New Order and my guilty prleasure-Billy Idol!
This time-good night-I’m falling apart….


Wog Boy Says:

VP,

Frenchie tried to milk the goat, then realized that there was something “wrong” with “goat” ;)
What else do you expect from the city slicker, but at least he tried:)


Margot Says:

Courbon: But WTF is end of the year and they always all seem a bit knackered to me.
I’ve seen some pretty one sided matches there over the years when, theoretically, it’s the world’s top 8 and they shouldn’t be.


Wog Boy Says:

TB,

Maybe Milos “the torn muscle” played TB badly, but second set should have never gone to TB, Nole choked it, or if you prefer, gifted two breaks back to Milos “the torn muscle ” in the second set.


Van Persie Says:

Courbon,

Like all the above mentioned bands/singers…I also like Simple Minds, and many, many others. do not have a favorite.
My grandmother used to have goats. Agree with you, complicated animals, but that milk is one of the healthiest :D

WB,

he realised later it was a male, perhaps ;)

Off now and to bed.

Nole idemooo tomorrow!


Willow Says:

Courbon nah no animal sacrificing, my living room is too small, but we had a good view of the supermoon though anyway, and BTW you have great taste in music, loved all those you mentioned ;-)) ….


Willow Says:

Margot agree ….


Khb Says:

Milos did not choke against anyone but Murray. He easily was playing top 2 tennis while Stan wished he was lucky in any match.
Milos choked again, as Kei did against Cilic & Murray.
Kei tried to dropshot when he was a point from going up 5-4 in murray match.
Murray thanked his lucky stars no matter what schedule he played
and clearly needed Novak to go away for 4 months.
Murray will need to again play finals, week after week next year to even get close to #1!


J-Kath Says:

The conviction Nole has had and Andy has newly acquired go a long way to settling who wins and who doesn’t. When shove comes to push the two better players succeed. But there does come a point when levels of reserve come into play. Rightly or wrongly they do not go into the final tomorrow in the same level of freshness/fitness. Yes, this happens often in tennis so we must give kudos to both players in advance.

Some of garbage from the Kingdom of the Deaf of the troll nature is simply “my man will win because he’s my man”.

For me, whoever wins wins.


Margot Says:

Lol Kath. “Big Brother” will be giving khb a “doublethink” award any moment now.
#proud


Danica Says:

J-Kath,

Agreed. Whoever wins, deserves it and the YE#1. They are both formidable and in the end, there is never a shame in losing to the better guy on a particular day.

For me, it’s 50:50.

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