Murray v Wawrinka, Nadal v Thiem; French Open SF Picks And Pans

by Sean Randall | June 8th, 2017, 6:55 pm
  • 341 Comments

Novak Djokovic didn’t make it, Roger Federer didn’t play, but the men’s final four at the French Open still looks pretty good. Actually, really good. And, at least on paper, it should make for quite a good day of tennis. But will it live up to expectations?

To be honest, the event thus far in the men’s has been rather flat. Other than the first set of Novak Djokovic-Dominic Thiem, the quarters were flat.

The round of 16 wasn’t much better. Milos Raonic-Pablo Carreno Busta finished strong. And the third round with the rain didn’t have much drama either.


So let’s hope that changes tomorrow. And I think it will. On to my semifinal picks.

Andy Murray v Stan Wawrinka
It’s a rematch from last year won by Murray. And I picked Stan in that match and I’m going to do it again. Stan’s played better of late while Murray just hasn’t found that form he had a year ago.

So for me it’s simple. Murray is not as good as he was at this time last year. Stan is maybe slightly better. Thus, advantage Stan. And on clay that’s how it should be,

I also don’t like Murray’s results this year which have been mediocre for his standard, and he’s had several puzzling losses.

And I don’t like his game much either. He’s not as offensive and his serve just isn’t in top gear. Of course that could change, but like we saw with Djokovic, often the pattern holds.

Wawrinka’s been doing his thing, playing good at the Slams and a Masters here or there like Indian Wells, then he also has a few bad losses. But this week he’s back to form and he arrives without dropping a set after pounding an in-form Marin Cilic Wednesday in his best match of the tournament.

The series is 10-7 for Murray but Stan leads 3-1 on the clay. And I think Stan will continue to crack those groundstrokes and if he can get his serve working – he’ll need some free points off it with Murray’s exceptional defense – I think he gets through in a rollercoaster match.
The Pick: Wawrinka in five

Rafael Nadal v Dominic Thiem
Yeah, Thiem comes in off his best career Grand Slam win. But came against a very indifferent Djokovic in the last two sets. So I just can’t get a good read on that win.

However, Thiem has beaten Rafa before. And I know Rafa was a little tired in Rome, but that counts, though Rafa beat him three times prior.

The key for Thiem will be his court positioning. If he can play up in the court he’ll have a chance. If he’s too far back he’s dead meat. And like he did against Novak, he’ll have to make his presence known early. Take it to Rafa right from the start and remind him of Rome. Plant that seed of doubt.

But, and it’s a big BUT. This is best of five. This is a Slam and this is the French Open where Nadal’s only lost twice before. And I just don’t think Thiem has enough right now to sustain the barrage that’s about to come.

Thiem probably beats him here someday, but not Friday.
The Pick: Nadal in four

Obviously, Murray could beat Stan, that wouldn’t stun me. And really, I could even see Thiem winning. Rafa’s had a really good draw so far and hasn’t been tested. Thiem is going to do that, but to win Dominic will have to redline from the ground and serve well. And keep that level up for 2.5 to 3 hours against a fresh, hungry Nadal on his favorite court.


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341 Comments for Murray v Wawrinka, Nadal v Thiem; French Open SF Picks And Pans

fred stone Says:

“If” the chair umpire does his job and forces Nadal to play by the time rules, the former champ will have to forgo his wedgie-adjustment routine and it could blow his mind to smithereens.
In that scenario, advantage Thiem, for the victory.
That’s a big “if”, but we’ll soon see if the umpire has the guts to enforce the rules, as he should.
Also, the King of Delay always drags out the time between changeovers, invariably leaving his opponent waiting to start the next game sometime this year.


Tennis Vagabond Says:

Agree with the picks, though I think Stan will have a bit easier time. I also always feel like Thiem should play closer to the baseline, but when he beat Rafa he was miles out of the court for much of that match, hitting long high topspin bombs to opposite corners.


skeezer Says:

“King of Delay”. Lol love that and it’s true. But based on the Umpires that have no b@lls, Nadal will take however much time he seems appropriate for him, putting the tennis fan in “sleep mode”. You wake up after 6 hours of tennis that only went 3 sets, to realize that Nadal won La Decima. Thank you Rafa for making Tennis longer than watching paint dry.


Raj Says:

Faker takes longer time than king of clay.. and its federer influenced to enforce that rule and made AO court faster.


skeezer Says:

^oh gee, and the sky is white, not blue.


Humble Rafa Says:

against a fresh, hungry Nadal

I am a Humble human being, not an animal.


rognadfan Says:

HR,ya we know your are! did anyone call you a beast? :)


rognadfan Says:

Totally disagree with Murray vs Stan match though your pick sounds right. I am leaning more towards a 3 set victory for stan or 4 sets at the most. Actually 5th set might mean Murray could very well emerge as the winner.

But watching stan’s game and his patience during points throughout this tournament, I think Murray can only hope that won’t be the case.

Stan in 4 for me, just because I like Andy.


James Says:

Stan in 4, Nadal in 4, my best guess.

Final? Stan in a slam final is quite a different animal. Stan in 4.

I doubt if any of the matches will go 5.


Chunkspin Says:

Nice analysis Sean. It’s hard to pick but I agree with you. What I would like, however, is for some younger blood in Thiem to rise to the occasion tomorrow. It would alter the tennis narrative and provide a less-than-thirty player to watch and root for going forward. He’s got his job cut out for him though. Murray vs. Wawrinka is close to 50-50 in my mind and either player will make a worthy opponent/winner in the final.


Chunkspin Says:

All that said, this is Nadal’s to lose and (mucho) credit to him if he wins. Also an awesome tennis narrative.


Rick Says:

You guys don’t know what you are on about? Thiem was thumping Nole that for everything. Especially on the forehand.


Kathy Says:

Raj Says:

“Faker takes longer time than king of clay.”

Murray often takes longer than Nadal. Since the whole T.V. debacle raised it’s head I have timed many players and many of them exceed the time limit. In saying thsi I am not denying that Nadal goes over the time limit, but I do think he is targeted. I also think he has made efforts to speed up. I wish he would, not because it spoils my enjoyment of his matches, but just to stop the endless talk about time between points.

In his quarter final Murray consistently exceeded the 20 second time limit, frequently reaching 35 seconds and on occasion 42 seconds. He even managed 25 seconds between first and second serve. Nishikori also exceeded the 20 seconds most of the time. Nishikori didn’t get a TV and Murray got two. The trouble with the rule is inconsistency, coupled with the fact that most people, umpires included are not interested in timing anyone not named Nadal and to a lesser extent not named Djokovic.

As a supporter of Nadal I am rooting for him, but if Thiem does manage the win, then IMO he would be a worthy successor.


squirrel Says:

Yes Kathy, I second your remarks. Although I hate that Nadal takes times between points, he is not the only one and should not be the only target, not fair. I have also noticed Murray’s delayed time here.


gonzalowski Says:

Nice analysis Sean.
Agree with Kathy, Rafa ia targeted about this Tv thing.
About Thiem, being a one hand BH could be important against him in such a (expected) long match (hope so)

Wawa stays strong, but with UE. If Andy doesn’t get to be agressive…bad for him


Daniel Says:

So far Murray and Wawa are pretty solid. Very few errors and both serving great.


squirrel Says:

Murray is having an easier time holding serve though..


Daniel Says:

Both played 1 deuce game so far but Murray having a good serving day, 71% first serves in


squirrel Says:

Wawa broke and will serve for set 1, yesssss


Daniel Says:

Wawa a break up, his only bad stat is 46% first serves in and 10 UE while Murray has only 2 UE (one being a Double Fault). But he is winning almost all first serves and high second serve as well.


Daniel Says:

Wow, what a wall Murray is today. He won last 2 points with Wawa spanking the ball and returning everything until Wawa missed. Broke back, to serve 4-5.


gonzalowski Says:

after the break, Wawa serves and makes 4UE game Murray


FedExpress Says:

Murray is such a pusher. Wawrinka is the only one on the attack.


squirrel Says:

Bravo Murray for being a great wall, impressive. Wawa needs to cut back those UEs and be more patient.


Daniel Says:

He has to improve his first serve percentage, serving under 50% he is not beating Murray.


squirrel Says:

Wawa is still leading, even though Murray is playing much better than him. Goes on to show that if Wawa elevates his play, he should have this in 3.


Willow Says:

Agree with Kathy and Squirrel, so moving on ….


Willow Says:

Small margins will decide this match i believe, nothing much to decide between them ….


squirrel Says:

Way to start a TB with a DF, lol


squirrel Says:

Hi Willow, enjoying the match? :)


FedExpress Says:

Fist pumping on opponents UE. Legit. Never change Murray, never change.


squirrel Says:

Horrible FH missed by Wawa..


Willow Says:

Hi Squirrel hell yeah :)


Daniel Says:

Wawa spanking the ball like there is no tomorrow, 4-4 tiebreak


Willow Says:

WOW What relexes there from Murray ….


Daniel Says:

Wrong side, Murray accept the gift. 5-4 Murray and 2 serves


squirrel Says:

Wow, Murray predicted so well..


squirrel Says:

Good to know Willow :)


Daniel Says:

6-5 Wawa with one serve to keep his impeccable set streak this tourney.


Willow Says:

Better than S.E.X what a point ….


Daniel Says:

Tense end of tiebreak, is like they know it could be crucial.


squirrel Says:

Haha you made me laugh Willow. Wawa looks super nervous, Murray is looking like a much more experienced one here


Daniel Says:

Wow, winding Murray allied this point. Great lobby. But Murray is mainly defending.


Willow Says:

OMG Murrays defense is insane, only the first set, and i might pass out ….


squirrel Says:

Murray won, waaaaaaaaa


squirrel Says:

Me too Willow..


squirrel Says:

Me too Willow..


FedExpress Says:

Disgusting pushing and luck from murray. Nadal/Thiem will eat him alive.


Daniel Says:

And he lost the set. He can get frustrated as he knows he had plenty of chances to win this set.

If Murray is to reached finals I hope he wins regardless of whom he plays. He sot too many Grand Slams finals for my taste, and he will be multiple Slams finals in all Slams. Can’t see him lose again.

Nadal in a way, can “afford” to lose an RG final, even tough he may not have many ore chances and La Decima seems destiny at this point.

Credit to Murray to out smart Wawrinka this set, also Murray is playing great with very few unforced errors and high first serves in, which always gives him confidence.


squirrel Says:

Good analysis Daniel. It’s true, I didn’t think about that, Murray shouldn’t be a RU in a slam final again..too many..


Daniel Says:

He actually has to win at least his next 3 Slams finals to start improved that awful record. So if he reaches final I am fully behind him, also as he lost last year same stage and ff he wins here he will be only AO away from a career Slam.

Him making finals the ideal will be Thiem who is young and can win later. Because if Andy beats Nadal in final s9can’t believe I typed that) would be bad for Nadal as well losing 2 straight GS and his first RG final. Big blow on him. The least Slams final I want at this point is Murray x Nadal because one of the sides will be devastated.


squirrel Says:

Omg if he wins here, the only Slam for him to win is AO to complete Career Slam, how funny would that be given his success there? lol


Willow Says:

I love Nadal but i think it would be amazing if Murray won the FO and the AO to get the career GS, i would personally like Stan to win W at some point to get the career GS too, imagine how amazing it would be to have the top 5 players all having a career GS ? ….


Anto Says:

@Daniel True


Colin Says:

So, FedExpress, Murray “WILL” be eaten alive by Rafa or Thiem?
In other words, you already think he’s going to beat Wawrinka. You are even more confused than usual, mate.


Willow Says:

And what an era for mens tennis that would be :-) ….


squirrel Says:

Yes Willow, that would be crazy!


Daniel Says:

And that can happen pretty fast, Wawa is winner USO, semis AO, so far semis RG. Could improve Wimby as he is now definitely a big match player regardless of previous results. And Murray is #1 and always one of the favorites in AO where he has 5 finals.


gonzalowski Says:

Hope Stan doesn’t win any GS more, still remember his treatment on Rafa at AO final that year… no respect from him towards an injured Nadal, and a stupid part of the crowd whistling Rafa…


Willow Says:

I Wish Stan would stop fiddling with his hair like its some shampoo commercial ….


Daniel Says:

First bad game by Murray, 3-3 0-40


gonzalowski Says:

Willow 😁😁😁😁


squirrel Says:

At last Stan looks like he could actually win in final!


Anto Says:

So far the match has been tightly contested. Hope it will continue till the end.


gonzalowski Says:

agree with squirrel, an inspired Stan without those UE could win


gonzalowski Says:

agree with squirrel, an inspired Stan without those UE could win


squirrel Says:

Come on wawa, please hold!


Navdeep Says:

I like Andy but their no way Rafa will loose to him. La Decima all the way


squirrel Says:

@gonzalowski

What did Stan do during AO final that was disrespectful to Nadal? sorry I didn’t watch the match live and forgot.


gonzalowski Says:

Rafa went to the locker room, and Stan highly protested to umpire


squirrel Says:

Wawa with an awesome return to win Set 2. Who will get the next two? Still hard to predict..


Willow Says:

Squirrel, Stan didnt like Rafas MTO for a back injury ….


squirrel Says:

@gonzalowski

Maybe he didn’t know that Rafa was injured?

He wasn’t happy when Federer took the toilet break before 5th set of their AO SF match either.


Daniel Says:

If Wawrinka waits the right time to attack, cut some UE and keeps improving his first serves in (now at 53%), he wins this. Looking how he close this set with another break he should be 2 sets to love. Murray somehow trapped him and steal that first set. Let’s see if Wawa builds on this set.


squirrel Says:

Ooo, I guess he was being disrespectful towards Rafa at that point. Heat of the moment I hope, as he seems like a nice guy.


Nits Says:

First semifinal living to its billing. I am confused whom to cheer for being a Nadal fan. Whosoever wins I want him to be beaten by Nadal in final.


tennis lover Says:

The Stanimal is right now drubbing the drunken Scots. 6-3 second set to Stan. He should improve his first serve percentage and cut down Unforced error. Then the Scot maggot won’t find anywhere to hide his ugly face.


Willow Says:

Nits, Nadal has to beat Thiem first, and he was awesome against Nole, im certainly not seeing that match as a gimmee for Rafa ….


Nits Says:

Always keep high hopes from your favourite.


squirrel Says:

If I were Rafa, I would prefer to play Murray. They play sort of similar game on clay and Rafa is much much better at it, whereas Stan is soo unpredictable…


Nits Says:

@squirrel agree with you


gonzalowski Says:

Yep squirrel, maybe heat of the moment… he seems a bit nervous guy. And he put (IMO) part of the crowd heavily against Rafa, I remember it as a hard moment.
Exaggerating a little 😊 Stan chose the glory against ethics


Daniel Says:

Wawa breaking Murray 3 straight times, heading for a moral bagel. After 3-3- second set is 6-0 Wawa, with 3-0 third set.

Indeed he build on wning that second set and is playing more and more comfortable.


squirrel Says:

@gonzalowski

Wow really, he did that? That reminds me of Djokovic, always wanting the crowd to be with them. Especially here I feel Stan wants that since the French players are not really fond of him.


squirrel Says:

Yes Daniel, Wawa is building on winning, let’s see how Murray responds!


Willow Says:

Nits true, and Rafas not called the KOC for nothing ….


Nits Says:

:) :)


skeezer Says:

Lol rafa fans here already counting on rafa in the final. He has to play thiem first, just sayin…..;)


Daniel Says:

Murray still alive, breaking back


Daniel Says:

Wow, what a BH!


Willow Says:

Skeezer read my post above, im not counting on anything Thiem played awesome to beat Novak, so i expect a tough match, and wasnt it only the other day, that none Rafa fans were saying this was Rafas to lose you included ? ….


Daniel Says:

Damm Murray, awful miss to get broken. Wawa 4-2 and serve.


squirrel Says:

Yes Daniel, that was an awful miss, given how fantastic he’s been at the net so far..


Daniel Says:

Unleashing winners


Daniel Says:

Third FH DTL winner in this game alone


Daniel Says:

Murray’s returns are bothering Wawa this game


gonzalowski Says:

what a points from Murray!!


Daniel Says:

Murray is fighting hard, thought this set was gone. He broke back two times.


Daniel Says:

15-40, wow, what a topsy turvv match


Daniel Says:

IF Wawa loses this set the way he lead all the way I think Murray wins the match. It will affect his mind. He threw everything on Murray and time and time again ball returned with interest.

Murray serving for third set.


Okiegal Says:

That’s what I expect from the world’s number one! Congrats to Andy and company!!


Willow Says:

Orgasmic ….


Willow Says:

Okie yes hes not the world number 1 for nothing ….


FedExpress Says:

Bloody choker wawrinka

this should have been over in 3 sets.

murray will collect another RU plate. This play wont win him the trophy. He is fortunate that he is playing mentally fragile players so far.


Willow Says:

Where are Margot and J-Kath ? ….


Okiegal Says:

Oops-I read my scoreboard wron


Daniel Says:

2015 – Wawa beats Djoko, next year, Djoko win title. 2016 – Djoko beats Andy, next year (2017) Andy wins title:-)


Okiegal Says:

Scoreboard wrong…..I said to myself “Okiegal, this is a slam”………lol…..still half asleep. So when Andy wins this ….my congrats are already there……


FedExpress Says:

Hope Thiem saves tennis and wins the whole thing. And there wouldnt be a more perfect way than beating nole, rafa and murray on the way.


Nits Says:

@ Fed express it is quiet a difficult task that you are asking Thiem to do. Big four have kept a stronghold on slam and this time also I think it will continue.


Nits Says:

Tennis will be saved by other things not by Thiem winning.


Okiegal Says:

@Willow…..Margot behind the sofa having a meltdown and if I was JK I would be having two or three glasses if wine! Lol πŸ·πŸ·πŸ·πŸ·πŸ’© it’s an exciting match so far!


FedExpress Says:

Thiem for now is the 2nd bet clay courter atm. And he has ever chance. Has beaten Nadal twice on clay. Big game and is coming of age finally.

If he develops his all round game he could also become a force on hard. Cant see him getting results on grass.


gonzalowski Says:

did he say ‘fuck’ Wawa after umpire’s correction?


RZ Says:

From Twitter:
Jon Wertheim‏ @jon_wertheim 21m21 minutes ago

Gendarmes have arrived on court to question Andy Murray in connection with theft of a set…now leads 2-1


gonzalowski Says:

😁😁😁


squirrel Says:

haha, good one RZ :)

Wawa should have gotten that one!


Willow Says:

Yep better than sex ….


squirrel Says:

Who’s betting for a fifth set??

Good for us but I bet Nadal et Thiem are screaming for Andy to close this out now!


Willow Says:

Squirrel i think if Margot and J-Kath are watching, they will be hoping Murray closes this out in four sets, im nearly peeing my pants with the excitement of it all ….


Willow Says:

AWESOME ….


squirrel Says:

haha you can do it Willow, he’s almost there! :)


squirrel Says:

haha you can do it Willow, he’s almost there! :)


RZ Says:

Come on Andy! Willow has a bracket to win. :-)


Daniel Says:

Hope the other semis and finals be like this.


Daniel Says:

Wawa guarantee tiebreak. Murray to serve to force the breaker. That tiebreak can be tense: MP, Set Point, MP, SP…


squirrel Says:

MP, Set Point, MP, SP…

Hahaha, that’s why I liveee for TB!!


Daniel Says:

Wawa has 71 winners out of 146 points he won, half of it with winner, amazing.


squirrel Says:

wow, amazing stats Daniel.

2-0 Wawa


Daniel Says:

Murray alternating high balls to decelerate the game and Wawa misses


FedExpress Says:

Murray pushing, pushing, pushing, …..


Daniel Says:

Tiebreak is never time for drop shots, too risky. 4-2 Wawa


squirrel Says:

Since when he misses a drop shot?


Daniel Says:

6-3, triple set point. Looks like a fifth set it is. Already 5 pm in Paris if they play for another hour, pretty sure. Nadal x Thiem will start 6:20 pm local time. They may not finish today if that match goes the distance.


squirrel Says:

Crazy forehand for set number 4!


Navdeep Says:

We are going the distance babyyy


squirrel Says:

Hopefully, not final on Monday!

Arghh stupid organizers, refusing to build a roof and install lights!!!


jatin Says:

Hey guys, How’s everyone ??
What a match. Hope we are up for an EPIC 5th set as well.
I am rooting for STAN all the way. ;)


Anto Says:

Fifth set it is. This match does deserve a 5th set.


Daniel Says:

And fifth set is long, two sets went to tiebreak, imagine if they go to 10-8 or above…This match can well go beyond five hours.

But mainly is on Wawa’s racquet. if he continues with the winners, as he had all match bit is able to play 5-6 games and 30 minutes with fewer misses he wins.

Murray knows he is missing a lot and is more passive today, we’ve seen him playing more aggressive before.


Anto Says:

Even though i would be happy to see both Nadal Wawarinka final and Nadal murray final. I just dont think i wiil be happy seeing murray lose yet another GS final


Daniel Says:

Seems Sean is right, fifth set he already got right.


Daniel Says:

Yes Anto, that’s why for me if he is to win here he better win the title. Wawa can afford a lost with his 3-0 and Nadal already have 9-0 RG, but La Decima missed will hurt him as well.


FedExpress Says:

Stan hitting 40 winners more than Murray. LMFAO.


squirrel Says:

Yeah! I had initially though Sean would be wrong, no way there would be a fifth set, haha


Daniel Says:

Classic momentum swing, player who lose tiebreak went on to lose serve opening next set. Wawa with n early break. He’s been there before with 3-0 in third set, let’s see how he behave now.


FedExpress Says:

Now bring this break home wawa.

you already messed it up thrice.


squirrel Says:

Come on Stanimal!!!


Daniel Says:

If Wawa starts zoning the set can go fast.


FedExpress Says:

Wawa in this mood is just a delight.


Daniel Says:

8 winners to 0 Unforced Errors by Wawa fifth set.


FedExpress Says:

Come on Wawa

Genius this guy.

double break


Daniel Says:

3-0, 9 winners and not a single UE in 10 minutes. As I said, match on his record, he just need a 20 minute zoning set. If he holds for 4-0, match pretty much over, can’t see him collapsing.


Daniel Says:

16-4 to Wawa inlast 20 pts.


FedExpress Says:

ahahahahaha

‘Lets go’. Murray.


squirrel Says:

Now Andy is playing attacking tennis


Mridul7 Says:

I am sensing a deja-vu here of 2009
2009 Rome:
Nadal beat Soderling 6-1, 6-0
then,Soderling beat Nadal at RG for his first ever win over him

2017 Rome:
Nole beat Thiem 6-1,6-0
then,Thiem beat Nole at RG for his first ever win over him

2009 RG:
Soderling gets beaten in the final by a Swiss with a one handed backhand
2017 RG:
….interesting


RZ Says:

I think after such a long match, the Radio Roland Garros commentators have run out of things to say. “He’s asked for 3 more balls. Now he has all 6 balls. He’s said thank you after each ball. Now he only has one ball.”


FedExpress Says:

Murray is getting raped.


squirrel Says:

Raped? Poor choice of word


FedExpress Says:

5-0 wawrinka
hahahhahahahahahaha


squirrel Says:

Dare I say bagel?


RZ Says:

Sounds like Wawrinka is zoning in this 5th set. I hope Andy can get a game or two at least.


Navdeep Says:

5-0 !. Stan the man has arrived.


Daniel Says:

Wow, Djoko and Murray leaving RG with Bagel sets in last sets. Seems the end of their stronghold on top #2.

Their points will drop and will be a chance for Wawa, Nadal, Thiem (if he wins this event) and even Federer to be #1. After Wimbledon they could all be around 8500 to 6000 points with a 6 man race.


tennis lover Says:

Stan, if he is total zone he can beat the hell outta Rafa. But, for that to happen, he need to play out of his skin with very high percentage of first serve and deadly backhand and forehand along with minimum unforced errors. He just needs to get into Stanimal mode and unleash all those bombers. While, I am still not convinced Rafa vs Thiem will result into an automatic victory for Rafa


Emily Crow Says:

Oh my goodness, I was already accepting Stan’s loss, this has got to be one of his best comebacks


Daniel Says:

BP, Murray with a chance of saving some dignity.


RZ Says:

A breadstick is better than a bagel.


Daniel Says:

Wooff, at least 1 game.


Daniel Says:

4 and half hours and they play a point like this with this precision.


Daniel Says:

Stan it is. Man, unless Nadal destroys Thiem and arrives in final without losing a set, think Stan has a 50% chance of winning his second RG and keep a flawless 4-0 in Major finals.


tennis lover Says:

People who say the Scottish Maggot Murray is better player than Stan the man are drunken douche. Murray is just too predictable, one dimensional and ugly tennis player. He does not deserve to be branded among Big Three nor does he deserve to have more Grand slams than swashbuckling Stan the man


RZ Says:

Congrats to Stan and his fans here on that comeback victory. Authoratitive 5th set.

Commiserations to my fellow Andy fans. But frankly considering where Andy was before this tournament, I think a 5th set loss in the semis to a zoning Wawrinka was a successful outing for him and puts him into good position on the grass.


Daniel Says:

If Nadal loses this will be a perfect tourney for Federer,, even with him not playing. Gain points on Murray and Djoko losing points and Nadal not distancing himself to much on race.
Grass around the corner where he will be favorite, Djoko total question mark and if Murray falters on grass (defending Queens and Wimby), this could be his year.


squirrel Says:

Commies to Willow, Daniel and other Murray fans.

Coming into this match, most people tipped Wawa to win based on form. The fact that your guy hanged in there to bring the match to the fifth set is very admirable and shows why he is indeed world no 1!


Emily Crow Says:

This will be Stan’s toughest final so far if Rafa is playing on another plane this tournament, but that was a fantastic win. They were talking about whether Stan was going to get tired in the 5th, but they obviously don’t know that he wills himself on by using that pain. I’m psyched he will either stay at #3 or will go past Novak to #2 if he wins


jatin Says:

WOW… What play by STAN. He can blast anyone with such game. Joy to watch.
Very excited for Thiem vs rafa now.


AndyMira Says:

Sorry to M and RZ..


Emily Crow Says:

Also, well done to Murray and all his fans, but Wawrinka warriors unite!


Anto Says:

Such an amazing performance by Stan and such a great match. Commies to murray fans he did good to stay with stan till the 5th set.


RZ Says:

Thanks Squirrel! Yes, I think this tournament Andy showed some of the moxie (if that’s the right word) that got him to #1 at the end of last year.

Andy’s legs don’t usually go out but considering his year (yes, I’m rehashing his bouts with shingles and flu), he probably isn’t as fit as he usually is. So going 5 sets and not flailing until the 5th is a good sign. And now on to the grass for Andy where aside from Fed he will be a heavy favorite.


RZ Says:

Thanks AndyMira. At least I’m still in the running to win the bracket. But I wanted Willow to win it because that would have meant Andy was in the final.

Ironically, at the US Open, Stan had to win for me to win the bracket. Now Stan has to lose the final in order for me to win the bracket.


RZ Says:

@Emily, I think Stan winning today moves him ahead of Novak, who drops out of the top 3.


RZ Says:

And congrats and good luck to the Wawrinka Warriors.
Some of us may be Murray Masochists, but we don’t wish the same masochism on the rest of you. :-)


AndyMira Says:

@RZ…Whether u or willow win the Bracket..i will be happy for u guys!U deserve it gals!!

P/S….Now,i know what you’re look like RZ!!At least now when we’re chat,i can put a face to your words!!Woohoo!!

See ya at Wimby RZ!!


Colin Says:

Tennis Lover (what an inappropriate name!)can’t you just TRY to be logical. For about the millionth time, ranking is not a judgement or an opinion, it’s simple arithmetic. Andy has more slams than Stan because he won them.

As for “ugly and predictable”, that’s so crassly silly it hardly deserves a reply.

Don’t be an idiot all your life. Take a day off.


squirrel Says:

@RZ

I hope you win the bracket!!


FedExpress Says:

Lindsay Vonn is just hotttttttttttttttttttttttt.


FedExpress Says:

Lindsay Vonn is gourgous.


Daniel Says:

Djoko will drop to #4. If Nadal loses today Wawrinka rises to #2 regardless if he wins the final.

If Nadal wins, Wawrinka and Nadal will battle for #2 rankings in finals.

Also, if Wawa wins he will hold 2 Slams (USO and RG) and not be #1 (what happen to Murray after Wimby 2013 when he held USO 1’and Wimby 13′ plus Olympics12′).

But if Wawa indeed wins and goes well in Wimby, finals and Murray doesn’t reach finals Wawa can overtake Murray for #1 ranking after Wimbledon.


RZ Says:

Mira, you’ve been spying! LOL.

Sadly for Willow, Andy needed to reach the final for her to win the bracket. It now comes down to me and Armend. Wawrinka wins on Sunday, Armend wins the bracket. Either Rafa or Thiem win against Wawrinka, I win the bracket.

Since my French Open 2017 days as a Murray Masochist are over, it’s Team Thiem Time!


RZ Says:

Aww thanks Squirrel!


Daniel Says:

Positive for Murray is he got his game back, a string of good wins, had one of his best defense matches ever, he was unbelievable today.

Seems ready for a great grass court season. Wimbledon is his main priority now!


RZ Says:

Daniel – thanks as always for the rankings breakdown.


Daniel Says:

This remaining of the year will be very interesting; Murray trying to keep his rankings, Fedal trying for a final push, Djoko batting his inner demons, Wawrinka may have his shot and Thiem making a push improving year by year.


veloce Says:

That was one Hell of a match from Wawrinka. But really, he allowed Murray way too many slices off his cannon-ball shots. All Murray was doing all day was trying to stay in the rallies by slicing balls back specially off the backhand side, where Wawrinka kept strecthing him wide. But what did Wawrinka do? stay way back ready to try another monstrous shot, instead of coming to the net and putting all those puny-ass slices from Murray away. You think Federer would stay way back at the baseline with setups like that? no way, he woudl have put all those Murray slices up at the net before Murray even know what happened. I dont get it, Wawrinka is a pretty good volleyer and he more that anybody is able to draw people so wide and far-back that monst anybody, and he keeps standing there like a statue, waiting for those slices fall deep in the court. Hello! Stan!! Kill that shit at the net!! He was lucky enough that his firing didnt go off kilter, cause Murray almost got him again, playing nothing but slices and lobs… geez…


RZ Says:

Ben Rothenberg‏ @BenRothenberg 16 minutes ago

“I’m proud of the tournament I had…one tiebreak from getting into final when I came into the tournament really struggling.” -Andy Murray


skeezer Says:

Stan will not face slices like Murrays’ against either opponent in the final. Another SUI in a Slam this year!


Daniel Says:

Humm, Thiem opens already breaking


veloce Says:

All I know is Wawrinka better get to the net more often than he did vs Murray, cause Nadal will. And Nadal is a hell of a lot better at moving forward, closing the net than Murray. If he stays back, Nadal will most likely get him with his usual defense and loopy, hard topspin forehands…


AndyMira Says:

@RZ!…It’s not my fault that i ‘accidentally’ know your full name in the Bracket!!…Btw..i hope u win it sis!!I can’t stand to see a big girl crying!!Urgh!!


skeezer Says:

Have to give a shout out to Murray also, he looked dreadful coming into this tourney and looked dreadful in the early rounds. But the heart of a champion he has, and almost made it to the final. Hats off to you Sir Murray!


Emily Says:

My only regret about this second match is that now I have to listen to John McEnroe commentate


veloce Says:

Man.. I really do hope is a Wawrinka-Thiem Final, that would be a shotmaker’s lovers delight…


Daniel Says:

Break right back, with Thiem netting 2 FH.


Daniel Says:

Battle of the spanking BH’s


veloce Says:

Nadal is gonna have to get thru the 2 guys that truly give him the greater test on clay, Thiem and then Wawrinka in the Final to get to the promised land…


FedExpress Says:

And some said Thiem has no chance cause Nadal is unbeatable.


veloce Says:

I actually think Thiem has a better shot at beating Nadal, he doesnt hve all the baggage of beat downs Wawrinka has in years past


James Says:

Nadal IS nearly unbeatable in best of 5 on clay – Thiem hardly has any chance to win today.


FedExpress Says:

Thiem has the fastest serve at this years RG and still cant hold serve easily.


veloce Says:

James – I agree on that – I’m not saying Thiem will beat him, but he he one of the very few that can


James Says:

Today Nadal will put the so called nextgen in its place. And on sunday will straight set a tired Stan.


FedExpress Says:

disgusting luck from nadal.


FedExpress Says:

hahahahhaa. thiems serve is just like lisickis. brainless power


FedExpress Says:

Thiem just ballbashing


FedExpress Says:

just retire thiem. just he even think before he hits a shot


Daniel Says:

Them started strong but if he can hold serve it won’t be competitive. All 4 games there were BP’s as Nadal saved a 15-40.

Let’s see if Nadal will hold easy or Thiem will pressure again.


Anto Says:

So far really error prone match.


Daniel Says:

Thiem DTL FH are working, 15-30


Anto Says:

Nadal playing with lots of nerve it seems.


Daniel Says:

5th straight game with BP, WTA feelings


veloce Says:

True, the WTA matches were border line silly with the amount of breaks..


FedExpress Says:

Thiem on BPs. NID.


FedExpress Says:

Thiems tennis IQ has to be low.


veloce Says:

If Nadal wins the first set, Thiem may be pretty much done. He needed to get a head-start. But he keeps missing on all those break-chances. Not a good sign.


Daniel Says:

Saved another 15-40 game. Them needs to hold now, neither hold easy so far.


J.S. Says:

Anyone?
Is it correct that either Nadal or Wawrinka will move to #2 spot?


veloce Says:

I think if Nadal wins today he moves to 2nd, Wawrinka remains 3rd, if Nadal loses I think Wawrinka is #2


veloce Says:

If anybody deserves to have a shot a his 15-minutes of #1 ranking is Wawrinka – Murray had his turn


FedExpress Says:

when will nadal get a time violation? He is exceeding the time limit especially when he is 15-40 down.

Show some balls, umpire.


gonzalowski Says:

Hmm as I said one hand BH by Thiam can be dangerous for him.
I think Rafa has trained parallel BH, to Thiem’s BH


Truth Says:

Why compare 2008-2009 French opens to 2017 French open?
It’s not like Wawrinka gets joke draws and becomes pummeled meat in the final.
Djoker isn’t even in tennis.
Soderling actually wanted to compete, although he was no better than Ferrer.
In ’08, Fed got bulldozed, but no one said Nadal was extremely lucky against an elderly wimp.
Nadal & Fed were old only when Djoker beat Fed.


J.S. Says:

woooohooooo RAFA!!! Go baby Go!!!


skeezer Says:

Note to Theim: Your off balance a lot of the times hitting your BH. Watch Stanimal, he’ll show you how to remain balanced through your shot. Because of this, you get out of position to hit the next sho and Rafa is taking advantage.


Daniel Says:

Veloce, If Wawa beats Nadal in final he is #2 and Nadal #3. If Nadal loses today Wawa #2 and Nadal #3. If Nadal wins the tourney he is #2.

http://live-tennis.eu/en/atp-live-ranking


FedExpress Says:

The real number 1 of the year is still Federer ;)


veloce Says:

Skeezer: you are 100% right. As good as Thiem’s shot backhand is, there is a technical flaw to it – he too often hits it with a back-leg stance, as oppose to planting his right-leg and letting it rip in a forward motion. He’s always hitting falling backwards, off balance. Exactly right, look at Stan’s shot, thats how you get the upperhand and pull people off the court.


veloce Says:

Daniel: thanks for clearing that up… OK, Thiem is in trouble now, he lost 1st set.


Anto Says:

First set in the bag for Nadal. Not that good set though. Thiem has to stop making these much unforced errors if he needs to have a chance.


J.S. Says:

Daniel…..THANK YOU!!! :)


James Says:

With the current racket technology, balls, and physicality of the players, clay court tennis has become mostly boring. Really hard for skill to beat fitness + speed. Same old baseline rallies, hardly any net play, hard to even hit an ace. Players stand 20 ft behind the baseline and keep whacking balls. This is not tennis.


veloce Says:

I jsut want to see another 5-setter, is that too much to ask??


James Says:

dont worry, you will see a 6-setter – 3 sets now and 3 on sunday.


Van Persie Says:

^ would finish tomorrow then, perhaps


veloce Says:

James: thats why I like Wawrinka’s play, he doesnt get into all that safe, put ball back in play, in a non-ending stream of stupid, risk-averse rallies. He’s gonna gun it, and he’ll keep gunning it, do or die. Just ask Murray.


Van Persie Says:

Above for Veloce


Daniel Says:

First set to Nadal. Thiem will have to control his errors and serve more accurate. At least he held serve last 2 times. On clay eventually chances will appear. Just one break up to Nadal who served first.


veloce Says:

James, thata was funny – got a a good chuckle out of that :) he he he


James Says:

I agree, Veloce, I like Stan’s game too. But Thiem stands too far back. Also agree with an earlier post that Stan should come to the net sometimes.


veloce Says:

Van Persie: I saw that.. :)


Van Persie Says:

If it finishes tomorrow, Wawa wins his 4th GS.


Van Persie Says:

Stupid planning, sorry


Daniel Says:

Abother 15-40 game, if Thiem doesn’t break here Nadal will grow and break him next game. Too many missed chances.


veloce Says:

James, yeah, he stands too far back, and like Skeezer mentioned, he keeps hitting that backhand open-stanced, off-the-back-foot. He needs to emulate Wawrinka’s smoother, forward take on it…


FedExpress Says:

hahhahahahahaha thiem is a clown.


veloce Says:

Wawrinka almost exclusively will hit an open-stance, baackwards shot only when in trouble or pushed back with a high ball, anything else he will topspin the shit out of the ball and get you off the court in a hurry


Daniel Says:

Hate being right, bP Nadal


veloce Says:

Daniel: you were so right.. here it is now Thiem facing breakpoint


FedExpress Says:

15-40

nearly 40 sec nadal did take.


veloce Says:

40 seconds!?? wow


RZ Says:

Y’all are a tough crowd. Only 2 people EVER have beaten Nadal at Roland Garros. So harsh on Thiem.


veloce Says:

shit.. that shouldnt be allowed, for real


James Says:

All 4 slam finalists this year have been over 30. wow. Trend likely to continue.


veloce Says:

RZ – Tomorrow it will be 3 people, once Wawrinka blows him off the court! he he he


Daniel Says:

ta daaaaa


veloce Says:

Daniel – man, you were so rigth


RZ Says:

@veloce – ain’t happening tomorrow. Maybe on Sunday, though (sorry to be a smart@$$ – sometimes I can’t help it).


veloce Says:

I think it’s about time for me to go to lunch – Thiem is done!


skeezer Says:

Thiem, yeah, the younger guy, already looks fatigued. Better get un – fatigued,
Or itsa buh bye.


Humble Rafa Says:

All the “Perspective” people are getting ready for funeral. Skeeze will give the eulogy.

#ten


veloce Says:

RZ – ah, yeah.. thats right! :)


FedExpress Says:

how stupid is thiem?


Humble Rafa Says:

I think it’s about time for me to go to lunch – Thiem is done!

No worries. I got this. Just in case, you finish you lunch in under an hour, we would have only played 4 games.

#bouncing balls


Van Persie Says:

FedEx,

Would be fun to see a match with you as commentator :)


veloce Says:

Humble Rafa – I know you got this. But please make it quick and painless… dont let Thiem suffer, he he he


Daniel Says:

Thiem is not winning the important points today, apart from that first BP he had first game of the match, 2 games he went to deuce in his serves he lost and the 3 15-40 games on Nadal’s serve. That is at least 10 important points lost. He needs to improve on that to have any chance. It’s still just 1 break but he can not even think of losing serve anymore this set.


Van Persie Says:

3 sets today


Daniel Says:

Thiem is not going for DTL shots, predictable, Nadal is stuck in BH corner distributing shots until he has an opening.

Thiem heading for another abysmal performance after a big win.
At least we know Wawa won’t crumble without a fight in a Slam final.


Emily Says:

I agree that everyone is being a bit rough on Thiem. I also agree that Thiem is not positioning himself well for his backhand. His stance is more like Federer’s, but since he wants to hit a heavy ball like Stan, he needs to steady his feet and hit the ball in his strike zone.


Daniel Says:

Jexx, Thiem can’t play 5 points without an error.


gonzalowski Says:

Uf Rafa is controlling, but I still don’t see the match decided.


Emily Says:

I didn’t see Thiem in the semis last year, but did he look this nervous and edgy then?


Anto Says:

Nadal is playing just average. Its because thiem spraying errors left and right the score is like this.


Daniel Says:

Nadal is hitting deep all day, hardly giving any short balls. It takes two to tango.


Daniel Says:

Even so, Thiem manages 7 games in 2 sets. Better performance so far that any other opponent Nadal had this tourney. And was able to generate this 15-40 games at least to make Nadal play.

Unless Thiem hits a tennis nirvana, hard to see him even getting next set. Just hope he doesn’t get broken second game as e did both sets. Nadal open 3-1 both times so he was always behind.


All out Says:

2 sets to love. I think thiem is trying too hard to hit winners. Hope rafa takes it in straight. But I’m unhappy with his return positions. If he stands so far back in the final stanimal will just blast his way to the title.


Daniel Says:

Playing behind again.


veloce Says:

Man, thiem is in meltdown mode now


Emily Says:

Guess we know which ticket holders got their money’s worth


rognadfan Says:

Thiem’s forehand can never trouble nadal. He sure can generate power when he rips but he reall doesn’t hit flat shots that go through Nadal.
His topspin is virtually a practice stroke for nadal.


Nits Says:

4-0 will it be a beagel or breadstick


Nits Says:

Finally Nadal plays for two hours


RZ Says:

Come on Thiem, just one game to not be bageled


RZ Says:

@Nits: Beagle 🐢 or breadstick? (Sorry, just can’t being a smart@$$ today)


Willow Says:

No dogs will be harmed in the making of this forum ….


RZ Says:

Rafa and Dom are good guys. They will treat the beagle well. :-)


Anto Says:

Such a disappointing performance from thiem. Nadal yet to get truly tested. That might be an issue come Sunday against Stan


Willow Says:

RZ Hope so, i hate cruelty to animals :-) ….


rognadfan Says:

Nadal avenged Djokovic’s donut. Nole fans may feel consoled! :)


Willow Says:

Dont think DT had anything left after playing so well against Nole ….


Van Persie Says:

I had expected a more competitive match. Rafa was too good and Thiem was a bit nervous.

So Wawa vs. Rafa. Come on, Wawa deserves to be for once runner up at a GS final.


Van Persie Says:

Am very impressed about Rafa. After 2-3 bad years he came back so strong. Amazing.


Nits Says:

He will be a runner up this time don’t worry everything ends.


Truth Says:

Yet, some say Thiem was a whirling dervish that was peaking near Nadal’s level and that Djoker was fighting very hard as usual. Yeah right.
Anything to please the F_dal floons.


Van Persie Says:

Andy played also unexpected well this tournament.


FedExpress Says:

Thiem useless as it gets.

Stan has to save tennis.


Willow Says:

What is this saving tennis meant to mean ? ….


FedExpress Says:

Offensive tennis should prevail not a pusher


Miles Says:

Now that’s the Thiem that lost against Djokovic recently – an utterly brainless performance. He might win a major one day – when Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, Murray and Wawrinka have retired (and if Zverev and Kyrgios aern’t in the final).

Well done, Nadal – he made it look so easy.


Okiegal Says:

I love watching paint dry…….especially when Rafa is the master painter………


Willow Says:

Okie exactly, and no other fan complains when its their favorite either ….


gonzalowski Says:

I think the 4h30′ of stan playing today could be a factor… he’s and “old man”, as they say in Tennis X


RZ Says:

Good one Okie!


skeezer Says:

So, lets get this straight. The guy who bageled Novak then gets bageled by Rafa.
Novak has a lot if work to do. Maybe go to the Challengers?
—-
Truth,
What is F_dal? Are you trying to say something?


skeezer Says:

Pardon the off topic but had to share another Krygios story. Writer is too funny;
http://deadspin.com/nick-kyrgios-combusts-stays-dead-1795727785

—–

Stanimal vs The Beast
Hope its a good one, good story lines on both….


veloce Says:

Rognadfan, you are right about Thiem’s forehand, he hits a powerful, aggressive spin shot, but sometimes it’s like to much and he needs so big of a wound up that he stays so far off the baseline, on both forehand and backhand that leaves himself open to being taken down. I thought Nadal had a huge wound-up, well, Thiems is far worse. One thing for sure, he won’t be seeing those shots from wawrinka.. he’s gonna unload bazooka after bazooka, and wawrinka can flatten as well as spin the shit out of his shots, specially of his backhand side. Hope wawrinka makes it 4 for 4… Hell, yeah!!


Wog Boy Says:

Rafa in three, Stan doesn’t stand a chance.


rognadfan Says:

Hoping Rafa to avenge those 2 “GS snatches by Stan?”
Well, your wish will most likely be granted come Sunday.
This means I agree with you for once!


rognadfan Says:

veloce,

Exactly! He kind of reminds me of Igor Andreev’s FH.
And that FH is really boring, unless you excel Rafa. Anything less than Rafa’s FH, it’s not going to be up for the task.


Daniel Says:

A FRIST time will happen next Sunday, either Stan loses his first Grand Slam final or Nadal loses his first RG final. I think the only big tuner where Nadal has multiple finals he hasn’t lost is RG. AO, IW, Miami, MD, Madrid, Barcelona, Rome, Wimbledon, Toronto (?), USO, WTF all he reached more than 1 final and lost.

RG is his bastion! La Decima coming. Nadal hits more powerful than Murray and Wawrinka will be on the move/run more often. But if there is somebody yet to play Nadal at RG is Wawrinka, let’s see how he will fare. Thiem even with this awful performance was able to create 8 break chances and only broke once, sure Wawrinka will do much better specially in BP conversion.

Nadal is still untested this tourney. Hope Wawa wins at least the first set to make Nadal more unsure and we have a classic battle and make him work for it.

70-30% to Nadal.


Daniel Says:

Also, Nadal breaks the tie with Djoko on second most Grand Slam finals at 22nd behind Federer’s 28th and could break another tie, with Sampras 14th if he wins his 15th Major, second alone behind Federer’s 18th .


Wog Boy Says:

” Thiem even with this awful performance …”

Well, Rafa has to something to do with that, doesn’t he?

Thiem wasn’t allowed to play better as simple as that, he didn’t have crappy Nole on the other side of the net to toy with, he had Rafa at its best.
This is the prove that Thiem hasn’t played out of this world tennis to beat Nole, but that Nole was playing crappy tennis.


FedExpress Says:

Stan will give his everything. He will go through all pain just like he did vs nole at the US open.

He is a big time match player. 50-50 match imo.

And todays match vs murray wont have an effect on wawa.


Wog Boy Says:

Nole at the USO and Rafa at the FO are two different animals, not even comparable, Nole ended up in USO final by accident and yet he gave Stan hard time.

There is a reason for 15:3 Rafa vs Stan H2H, the three wins that Stan has came in 2014/15/16 and even he was better player at AO prior Rafa got injured the question mark remains, next two wins came when Rafa was well and truly out of form.
Look at the stats last night, 77 UE, almost 20 per set against out of form Andy, if Andy could kept himself composed that match should’ve been finished in four, but this Andy is not last year Andy. Rafa is going to eat him alive with that ratio and don’t evrn think he can have 80+ winners like against Andy.
Nothing new here, Fed fanatics will cheer anyone that can protect legacy of their cult leader, happened with Nole, happened with Andy and now they will cheer Stan for the second time.
I told you before, Rafa is on the mission and don’t be surprised if he holds NCGS next year in Melbourne, yes, you heard it here first time and I will be there to witness the history;)


skeezer Says:

“This is the prove that Thiem hasn’t played out of this world tennis to beat Nole, …”
Yep. Didn’t need to. Thiem was the better player that day, all credit to him. Today Thiem imo looked fatigued and had low energy from the get go, and it showed as he was unable to get set properly when he had the opportunities to hit shots.
Rafa came to play, and the results followed. One could say if you were a Novak fan you were giddy that he lost to Thiem, as Rafa would have given him a much worse embarrassing beatdown.


skeezer Says:

Stan will not face slices, lobs, drops, etc against Rafa. It will be a completely different match up and match. It will be a hit fest. Only concern is Stanimals’ stamina. He needs to create those angles with his bh, hit flatter and keep running Rafa around. Just hope he competes. Still think Rafa will get his 10 though….


Wog Boy Says:

” Today Thiem imo looked fatigued….?”

Fatigued?
What an idiotic statment. Fatigued from what, from beating Nole two days ago without even having to sweat properly and having three day break prior that after tough match with Zebalos (6:1, 6:3, 6:1)?
When I thought you can’t get any lower you proved me wrong.


skeezer Says:

“Fatigued from what,..”
If I knew I tell ya. Don’t know from “what”. But I made this obversation and a statement earlier “during” the match. Could have been nerves. It happens. But if you study movement and how to rcover, prepare for shots, etc, or have experience aa a player you would know.


Wog Boy Says:

He was fatigued from Rafa, but you don’t expect Fed fanatic to admit that, besides I did play sport but it is irrelevant in this matter.


skeezer Says:

You don’t know what you’re ralking about, quit before you sound more b$tt hurt. Move on, play tennis, learn something.


Kimberly Says:

I thought Thiem footwork was quite poor in the match and Rafa footwork was perfection, the commnentor even said how he moves forward into the court to attack but then steps backward to respect the power of the opponent. Thiem never really even went inside the court.

I never thought Thiem had a chance in this match. I said as much on this chat after Rafa lost to him in Rome. I think Wawrinka has more of a chance but he will have to play the match of his life, Nadal ball a lot different than Murrays and if Rafa is getting the depth needed he will make more errors than winners. But make no mistake he will try to play Robin Soderling style to win. But I’m predicting Rafa in 4. Ultimately he is just a much better player on this surface than Stan or anyone else. I think he will win.


skeezer Says:

@K
Good post🎾


Nits Says:

@Fedexpress come on Man you are giving 50:50 chance. Are these numbers based on 9 French open, more then 100 5 setter wins, this year form, head 2 head record, fatigue factor experience of playing grand slam finals. Please explain your criteria. Well Wawrnika may win but chances of that happening are not 50 percent in my honest opinion.


James Says:

I told you, Nadal will put nextgen in place. Now on sunday Nadal will put his own kind, senior citizen, in place. The combined age of the French finalists is 63+ – downright geriatric.

Straight sets to Nadal – 6-3, 7-5, 6-2.


Daniel Says:

Indeed Skeeze, Murray hardly hits the same ball twice and throwing a lot of variety at Wawa. Nadal will do BH cross court and if the ball returns to his BH again, BH DTL. If it is FH, cross court. All with great top spin and margin for him to get time to be in position again.

Wawa will get more rhythm out of him. But even so, Nadal is hitting deep all tourney and return great. He is breaking half the time the servers.

Can’t see Wawa not winning a set. He is spanking the ball and we ll saw if he gets 10 minutes zing what he can do. Nadal started missing a lot today and even second set Thiem was 1-0 up and 0-30 after 2 Nadal errors. He not started first 2 sets great. He will e super tense Sunday, more so than Wawa/


Okiegal Says:

@RZ 3:34… ..Thanks……that rolled off of my fingers like water…..Rafa has been in beast mode at RG this year. I hope he gets 10……some notable tennis enthusiasts think if he does this will be the greatest sport event ever……then there is one that says what brand x did in Australia was…….but I’m not buying it. If brand x wears the GOAT title……why isn’t his record at the prestigious French Open better than the King??? Heck, he was a no show….that was surprising to me since he is the so called GOAT. He would have gone far in this tournament……what was he thinking??? Had he gotten in the same side with Stan…..well it would have been disastrous for Stan……Roger owns him…..then boom baby…..he’s in the finals. Had he been on the same side with Rafa…..anything can happen. I think he screwed up…..


Okiegal Says:

@Willow 3:17. I was gonna post the same thing……


Daniel Says:

The problem is this run is too easy for Nadal.And he had several preparation for La Decima.

Federer came out 6 months off, heated 4 top 10, 3 five seekers including last HC Slam winner (Stan) and beating his nemesis in the final. That achievement to me is more remarkable.

Everybody is expecting La Decima since Nadal reached the AO final and we just wanted to check if he will fare well on clay, which he did.

In this way, this La Decima has a sense of formality to it. As if it is meant to happen for quite a will. Hence I think it will diminish it a bit.

The number itself is remarkable, but the path on how it unfolds is anticlimactic so far. There was no drama to it.

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