Federer Downs Del Potro to Win ATP Basel, Withdraws from Paris

by Staff | October 29th, 2017, 4:50 pm
  • 123 Comments

While he wasn’t in peak form, Roger Federer ground out a three-set win over Juan Martin del Potro in the Swiss Indoors Basel final on Sunday, defeating the Argentine defending champion 6-7(5), 6-4, 6-3.
ADHEREL
It was Federer’s eighth career Basel crown.

“I think we’re both tired from a long season,” said Federer of the back-and-forth match where both players showed their nerves in the third set.

“Plus he’s been playing four straight weeks now, very successful, so we tried to give it all we had,” Federer said. “The crowd really enjoyed themselves and at the end there is always going to be a winner unfortunately in tennis. But I think we both can be very happy with the week today.”


Federer had his serve broken to start the third set but roared back with aggressive baseline play.

It was a key defeat for Del Potro, who now must go deep at the Paris Masters to have any chance of qualifying to finish in the Top 8 for the ATP Finals.

“You’ve been playing great tennis this year,” Del Potro told Federer on court after the final. “You are in fantastic shape, it’s unbelievable. I would love to be at your age in the same form, but I don’t think so.”

It was Federer’s 95th career title, which moves him into sole possession of second place on the all-time list behind Jimmy Connors’ 109 titles.

Federer improved to 11-1 against Top 10-ranked competition this year.

Del Potro was at No. 47 in the 2017-only points tally heading into this year’s US Open.

“You’ve been on a great run since the US Open and before so I’m very happy to see you playing so well again and being able to play every week,” Federer told Del Potro. “All the best for Paris and then I’ll hopefully maybe see you in London, too.”

After the match Federer delivered a shocker, announcing he was withdrawing from the Paris Masters, citing a back injury, which ends his chances to finish the year No. 1 ahead of Rafael Nadal.

“It was an emotional match,” Federer said after the final. “But a good one, I think, for the fans.”


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123 Comments for Federer Downs Del Potro to Win ATP Basel, Withdraws from Paris

Bob Says:

For me, it was the best final since the AO.

October 29th, 2017 at 5:31 pm


skeezer Says:

“Federer improved to 11-1 against Top 10-ranked competition this year.”
Yep, no wimpy opponents unlike some other winners this year.
Congrats on Feds. 9 5 t h ATP title.! A m a z i n g !!

October 29th, 2017 at 6:10 pm


t4t Says:

I think Nadal also should withdraw from Paris now that his year end #1 is assured..

October 29th, 2017 at 6:30 pm


Daniel Says:

Well,

Seems at least one of Pete Sampras recorda will hold, 6 year end #1. For now at least. Newxt year Fed will still have 5 and Nadal will have 4. If they produce another year like this they can catch up.

Seems Fed can’t handle back to vack weeks with no days rest. IW and Miami are played in 2 12 days. He laot ealry in stutgart and then won Halle next week. Didn’t play Cincy. And now won’t play Paris afer Basel.

He is still amster of scheduling and he knows he is siper favorite to win an extended record 7 WTF.

It’s a pitty though, so close and he won’t gove himsef a chance. But he knows better and to listen to his body. Probably thinking long term and stay health. AO next year should be the target together with Wimby and USO and a potential 20 Slam.

October 29th, 2017 at 7:25 pm


bstevens Says:

Smart decision by Fed. Not worth risking his health to chase a slim chance at number one.

October 29th, 2017 at 7:31 pm


Tennis Vagabond Says:

That was a spectacular match. These guys brought some amazing stuff today. Real pity to hear of Fed pulling out. Thinking back before Shanghai, the chances of a Fed YE #1 seemed astronomical. Then the Shanghai beatdown. Then the bare-escape today, and a decent Paris draw… for the first time it felt like there was a legit chance for Fed to finish #1. So the news is a big letdown, but it is what it is. Amazing run by both Del Potro and Federer.
Even if Federer drops his game next year, to know that Del Potro will be playing at this level or better (hey, his BH keeps improving!), is great to know. He is right at the doorstep to making Big Five into Big Six – not accounting for any youth breakthrough. Right now, Del Potro is better than Cilic, better than Zverev and Thiem. We spoke of him through 2017 as a longshot slam contender, but to me it was more of a long-shot spoiler. I never expected him to win a slam in 2017. In 2018, I think he will be in the short list of legit slam contenders.
Never expected such a successful end-of-career return, its great to see.

October 29th, 2017 at 8:40 pm


Daniel Says:

Yes TV,

Let’s hope DelPo at least end the year closer to top 10.

October 29th, 2017 at 10:23 pm


AndyMira Says:

Much CONGRATS to Fed & his loyal fans especially my Bro Squirrel,Markus & all the clan….Awesome year continues!!

October 29th, 2017 at 11:32 pm


James Says:

In Montreal he had a genuine back injury – it was clear his movement was severely compromised. That injury continued into the USO.

This time there is no injury. There HAS to be a better process to let geriatric players withdraw without faking injuries.

Skipping Paris is a smart decision though. There was hardly any chance of his finishing No. 1. that was sealed at the USO when he lost in the QF and Nadal avoided any top 25 player to win it. Then Nadal grinded out the Asia swing to get 1100 points, pretty much sealing it.

At this age Fed can’t play back to back weeks without breaks. He knows it. Slams give a day off, other tournaments are daily matches. He had two three setters this week, the final was really a tough one, his tank has got to be running low. two weeks off will do him a lot of good to get ready for the last big prize of the year.

Nadal should be careful. He has played 75 matches already this year. I doubt he will exert much effort in Paris – he will fight in the first match to win No. 1 ranking, then coast along. Or at least that’s what he should do.

Delpo must be wiped out. Fed has a great chance to win the YEC if he stays healthy.

October 30th, 2017 at 2:58 am


Tennis Magic Says:

It would be great if Delpo qualifies for the WTF, and these two meet in the finals there. The way things stand right now, a healthy Federer will beat a super healthy and 120% Nadal and Djokovic 9 out of 10 times, and Delpo 8 out of 10. Grinders and retrievers will not be able to dent Roger’s game with his improved serving and backhand of 2017. Only Delpo has the fire-power to barrel through Feds defenses and push him 5 feet behind the baseline … http://www.138mph.com/tennis-federer-fights-off-del-potros-resistance-in-the-battle-of-basel/

October 30th, 2017 at 4:22 am


Margot Says:

Some of you guys really want it both ways, as in:
Fed is 36, he can’t possibly be winning tournaments FFS, he must be doping and:
Fed can’t possibly have back ache, he’s only 36 FFS.
How are your knot untangling skills? ;)

October 30th, 2017 at 4:27 am


madmax Says:

Fed is brilliant. Wonderful, So hope that he can take time off to recover well. As Rafa has done, before going into Paris.

t4t Says:
I think Nadal also should withdraw from Paris now that his year end #1 is assured..

October 29th, 2017 at 6:30 pm

Sure t4t. Thanks to Fed. We see through all of your transparent posts. Boring.

Margot, I don’t want it both ways,not at all. Thought it was a great final. Unbelievable year continues. I think this year will not be repeated for next. How can it be Margot? With a refreshed Andy and Novak. I expect those two to wipe the floor. I really do. And Good luck to them also. Wish them the best. They will understand what both Rafa, and more Fed this year, went through, with 6 months off, to risk that time not knowing the state of their injuries or how their bodies would react playing tournaments again….and for us fans not to know whether if this would be the downslide.

Can ask for no more from Federer and I didn’t when he won Wimbledon this year. That was more than enough for me.

I can’t keep up with him! 36 is mind exploding, but where there is a will, there is a way and Roger keeps finding them.

October 30th, 2017 at 5:07 am


madmax Says:

Taking time off now to recover for London is the right thing for Federer. God knows how he keeps on going. That passion really is alive and well.

October 30th, 2017 at 5:09 am


j-kath Says:

Fed. will be playing charity exhibition in Glasgow in Nov. No pressure on these types of matches – but Fed. likes to get a few “Wows” from the crowd – whereas Andy may well over-push himself to test his own physical prowess – may be interesting for those reasons.

If Del Potro pushes himself to qualify for London – he’ll need a 6-month time-off to recover thereafter.

Madmax: Fed’s passion? Yes it is “alive” but not “well” – more than most players, the prospect of losing damages his sense of entitlement.

It’s Rafa’s time to win London – I’d like to see it happen.

October 30th, 2017 at 5:46 am


Naderer Says:

@j-kath, agreed, it’s Nadals turn to win WTF but I know RF would absolutely love to prevent RN from winning it as he was prevented from winning the French open

October 30th, 2017 at 6:30 am


AndyMira Says:

@M,JK,RZ!….I’m sure u guys already read this right?

http://www.tennisworldusa.org/tennis/news/Andy_Murray/48692/andy-murray-to-start-season-in-australia-for-next-three-years/

Ohohohohho!!…Great great news indeedy!!…He will play for the next 3 years!!….Wooohooo!!

October 30th, 2017 at 7:14 am


gonzalowski Says:

Tennis Magic, pardon???? “a healthy Federer will beat a super healthy and 120% Nadal and Djokovic 9 out of 10 times, and Delpo 8 out of 10”

come on, man, Nadal won the BIG prize, USO, and Fed wasn’t even there. Take London courts aren’t as fast as Shanghai ones (don’t know), and…let’s see what happens

October 30th, 2017 at 7:16 am


gonzalowski Says:

good field for Brisbane 2018, AndyMira

October 30th, 2017 at 7:17 am


Giles Says:

J-K. Amen. Cheers. 😊🙏🏼

October 30th, 2017 at 7:20 am


gonzalowski Says:

Naderer, agree,
IMO these Greats sometimes like to prevent each other to achieve their goals, be RG, YEC, or whatever, for the sake of their own records.
It’s sport, too, isn’t it? fair enough

October 30th, 2017 at 7:26 am


Markus Says:

I am happy the way things are with Federer. About being number one, there is no need to chase that. If it happens, it happens and that would be great. If it does not, that’s fine, too. It would not detract from how good this year has been for him. Nadal would most likely be the year-end number one. Happy for him and for his fans for that because he too has an amazing year. He and Roger split the majors but Nadal winning a 10th French is just so incredible that it is only appropriate to cap that with a year-end number one title. Besides, that would be an interesting and ironic, in a funny way, to see a reversal of fortune between these two: Nadal declared as best of the year but with a losing record to Federer.

October 30th, 2017 at 8:10 am


FedExpress Says:

Year end No 1 or not, he has been the outstanding player of the season. No doubt.

October 30th, 2017 at 8:19 am


Giles Says:

Lololol. It’s really funny that you people are harping on Rafa’s losing record to fed this year. So tell me, what was the story in previous years when Rafa dominated fed and fed was the #1 player? As it stands Rafa still has an overall winning record against fed!! Hopefully that will continue.

October 30th, 2017 at 8:25 am


Giles Says:

Fed missed a whole season. He cherry picked his tourneys whereas Rafa has played throughout the year.

October 30th, 2017 at 8:29 am


skeezer Says:

Giles, re; 8:25am
You are so yesterday.

October 30th, 2017 at 8:44 am


Margot Says:

AM: Thanks for that but Andy can’t possibly predict his short term, leave alone his long term, future. One match at a time.
Signing a contract for three tears. Do hope Brisbane has got a pre-nuptial.

October 30th, 2017 at 9:19 am


AndyMira Says:

@Gonzlowski 7:17 am….Yep!!..It is!!….Can’t wait for it Gonza!

October 30th, 2017 at 9:19 am


Margot Says:

Freudian slip there. “Years” not “tears,” of course.

October 30th, 2017 at 9:20 am


AndyMira Says:

M!…I admit,after his shingles & hip injury debacles…i pretty much worried about his future…i’m not ready to see him hangs his racquet yet…much more so after read multiple ‘negative’ articles about him…but,it’s sooo very relief to hear this new development….i will cling to his words M….Other things,doesn’t matter…

October 30th, 2017 at 9:31 am


the_mind_reels Says:

@Giles 8.29a: you compare their schedules like they are peers who are the same age, which they are not. Last time I checked, when Federer was 31 like Nadal is now, he played a full season of 80+ matches including Davis Cup and the Olympics. Until Nadal is 36 and still competing, there’s no valid point to be made comparing schedules.

October 30th, 2017 at 10:14 am


t4t Says:

gonzo @ 7:16 am
Fed was there at USO but he lost early. Just not good enough, ha ha! Or maybe he was scared of Nadal because he could see Nadal was playing well? So decided to tank his match? Pathetic!

October 30th, 2017 at 10:15 am


t4t Says:

Fed has draws, schedules, surfaces all custom designed for him….Not fair comparing his schedule with Nadal’s.

October 30th, 2017 at 10:22 am


skeezer Says:

^since you are repeating posts:

No ATP player is demanding that the draw is crookedy wrong and shows favoritism. You just don’t know how seeds work in a draw that may setup a players draw. Read up on how a draw works. and come back educated.
There are surfaces taylor made for Rafa & Djokovic’s game too, All this continual talk is rubbish and YOU provide no proof, just jealous rants that somehow someway according to your own mind must be true.
Fed has 19 Slams, none of the players past and present are complaining about that number, how he got it, cause they all know HE earned it fair and square.

October 30th, 2017 at 10:28 am


gonzalowski Says:

t4t it’s true last events – indoor season at least, he had better draws

October 30th, 2017 at 10:29 am


skeezer Says:

Here is the news of the day:

“Federer Beats Del Potro to Win ATP Basel”

Scroll up to the top, you can rad it there.

October 30th, 2017 at 10:32 am


gonzalowski Says:

maybe sponsors as Rolex (Sanghai or Paris) slihgtly demand it

October 30th, 2017 at 10:33 am


t4t Says:

madmax @5:07 am
Poor madmax, I wonder what kind of person spends her time reading my boring posts?
Also, how is Nadal going to be #1 thanks to Fed? Has Fed withdrawn from Paris to let Nadal be #1?
If so, I can say Fed won AO thanks to Nadal and is now returning the favor!
Fed owes it all to Nadal this year who kindly let himself be beaten 5 times just so that his dear friend can improve his h2h against him!ROFL!
I remember also 2009 when Fed completed his career slam and achieved the Channel slam thanks to Nadal who kindly let himself lose at RG and withdrew from Wimbledon just to oblige Fed.
I think Fed owes more to Nadal! Nadal is too generous to his rivals even sitting out half the season so many times to let them fatten their records!

October 30th, 2017 at 10:37 am


Markus Says:

Federer remains the number one topic here. You all know why.

October 30th, 2017 at 10:57 am


t4t Says:

skeezer @10:28 am
What happened to our love fest? You were agreeing with everything I was saying even that it was not luck i.e, it was design that was involved in Fed’s cupcake draws? Are you now at War with yourself i.e. with me or do you now think you are kjb ?

October 30th, 2017 at 10:58 am


Markus Says:

There are two main groups in TX: Those who love Federer because he is the best and those who hate him because he is the best.

October 30th, 2017 at 11:01 am


j-kath Says:

Fed. Express: 2 + 2 = 4, no matter which galaxy U live in.

October 30th, 2017 at 11:13 am


skeezer Says:

“What happened to our love fest?”

to quote Jimmy Fallon: “Ewwww”

October 30th, 2017 at 11:31 am


t4t Says:

oh skeezer, I think this ewwww is a bad sign. Stand in front of a mirror and repeat 100 times ” I am not kjb”.

October 30th, 2017 at 11:38 am


Giles Says:

10.57 am. Not surprised since this place is swarming with you lot! Lol

October 30th, 2017 at 11:38 am


skeezer Says:

Giles,
“Not surprised since this place is swarming with you lot! Lol”
You don’t? lol

October 30th, 2017 at 11:49 am


Margot Says:

Good grief AM! I’ve just seen you haven’t got the magnificent Monsieur Crashquet winning Paris. How come? Tsk. Tsk. You fickle woman….;)
Rafa and JMP are most popular choices, I see.

October 30th, 2017 at 12:31 pm


gonzalowski Says:

first Rafa’s match will be against korean Chung !!!
he beat Mischa Zverev; just watching he beat Bautista Agut on Shanghai, to lose to Gasquet.

this korean had a pretty good 2017 clay season
1st round for Rafa on indoor, well, let’s see, maybe not easy.

October 30th, 2017 at 12:51 pm


RZ Says:

Thanks AM! Hadn’t seen it (been busy so not online so much these days). I’m hoping Andy will come back strong next year.

October 30th, 2017 at 12:57 pm


RZ Says:

I get that Basel is Fed’s home tournament and is special to him, but why would he play that tournament and then drop out of Paris? He should have skipped Basel and played Paris instead.

October 30th, 2017 at 12:58 pm


Humble Rafa Says:

A m a z i n g !!
—
What is the gap hanging between words? Does that signify arrogance?

October 30th, 2017 at 1:46 pm


the_mind_reels Says:

@RZ: I’m guessing Fed was still feeling reasonably fresh after Shanghai (and I think he said as much in his presser), and so playing Basel, where the court is quick, probably wasn’t going to tax him too much. Skipping Basel to gear up for Paris instead, where he’s historically not played nearly as well as other indoor tournaments and where everyone else is going to play for every last fighting ball as they try to qualify for WTF, probably seemed like a risk given how shortly after the WTF start.

With this scheduling, he should be pretty fresh to make a last push for a win in London. I just don’t think he’s as focused on finishing #1 at this point as he is with continuing to rack up big titles and put more space between himself and the top guys in that regard. He already has more weeks at #1 than any other male player in history, and Djokovic is the only active player who could *maybe* catch that, but that’s a big if. (He’d need to regain the ranking and hold it for about 3 years…)

October 30th, 2017 at 4:18 pm


the_mind_reels Says:

^ Sorry, quick correction: Djokovic would need to regain the top spot for just under 2 years. Still, quite a while :)

(Nadal is about 3 years behind.)

October 30th, 2017 at 4:19 pm


gonzalowski Says:

yes the weak era helped Fed a lot on those weeks ;))

October 30th, 2017 at 4:30 pm


skeezer Says:

^So this is a weak era year, correct Gonza? ;)

October 30th, 2017 at 5:04 pm


madmax Says:

gonzalowski Says:
Tennis Magic, pardon???? “a healthy Federer will beat a super healthy and 120% Nadal and Djokovic 9 out of 10 times, and Delpo 8 out of 10″

come on, man, Nadal won the BIG prize, USO, and Fed wasn’t even there. Take London courts aren’t as fast as Shanghai ones (don’t know), and…let’s see what happens

Sure Gonzaowski, sure. Not beating anyway who was ranked under 25. Still, a win is a win, even if there was no competition.

Get real.

October 30th, 2017 at 5:27 pm


madmax Says:

…not only that, why do you want to dis the Fed. Why?

Fact check. That is what is needed. Plus, reality check.

October 30th, 2017 at 5:28 pm


madmax Says:

gonzalowski Says:
yes the weak era helped Fed a lot on those weeks ;))

October 30th, 2017 at 4:30 pm

Another faker. Another cheap shot. Will never understand these people.

October 30th, 2017 at 5:28 pm


gonzalowski Says:

guys YES it’s clear this is a weaker year, wihout NOle, Andy, and lot-of-time-injured others.

I was teasing a bit before, you know I seriously think of Fed as the GOAT

October 30th, 2017 at 5:36 pm


gonzalowski Says:

and I’m glad that Rafa has taken advantage of this ‘weaker year’

October 30th, 2017 at 5:49 pm


RZ Says:

@The Mind Reels – that makes sense. I’m just annoyed because I wanted there to be another WTF where #1 was on the line, like last year.

October 30th, 2017 at 5:59 pm


Tennis Stud Says:

Shame that he pulled off Paris. Was looking forward to the World No.1 race.

October 30th, 2017 at 6:04 pm


Tennis Stud Says:

Nadal never won Paris Masters 1000. He should be well rested after taking the last week off.

October 30th, 2017 at 6:05 pm


Tennis Stud Says:

@RZ, I am guessing, maybe because he has emotional attachment to Basel?

October 30th, 2017 at 6:06 pm


j-kath Says:

Where is Willow these days????????????

October 30th, 2017 at 6:15 pm


RZ Says:

@Tennis Stud – that’s definitely part of it.

October 30th, 2017 at 6:24 pm


RZ Says:

@J-Kath – agree, that is odd.

October 30th, 2017 at 7:55 pm


Daniel Says:

Fed usually struggles in a few rounds in Basel. He doesn’t play as freely as other places. All his titles he played a few 3 setters in the process. and lost 5 finals, 2 to DelPo, 1 to Djoko and 2 before his first title to Enqvist and Henman.

October 30th, 2017 at 8:06 pm


t4t Says:

I am sure the struggles are all pretence. With his hold on draws and schedules and the secret “potion”, he could have won the calendar slam, all 9 Masters and any other event he cared to enter. But his handlers must have advised him to skip some tournaments, lose some matches, pretend to struggle in a few others, so no one would take a closer look into the “miraculous” resurgence of a 36 year old man who is playing better than he was when he was 30-34. Does he look tired or injured? No! As Wog boy put it, all sane fans must be knowing what is behind this resurgence, If something is too good to be true…..

October 30th, 2017 at 9:21 pm


AndyMira Says:

@M!!….Ohohohohohoho!!Nice dig!!..Hehehehehehehehe!!…Oppss!!…i see someone from Welsh also lost of trust in ‘darling’ Sascha this week!….I wonder why??…But Gorgeous Grig is not a bad pick after all!!…[At least for now!Hehe]

Bout Rafa…Hehehehe..yeah!That is my kneecap picking Miss Witch From Welsh!!..I should use my head but i’ve decided to honour my kneecap again this week….May the kneecap win!!Wooohoooo!!

Btw…U can’t resist yourself to be near me again this week hah??Why!I’m very flattered to received such attention from u Witch From Welsh!!Ohohohohohohho!!

October 30th, 2017 at 9:38 pm


AndyMira Says:

And M… i meant on TDC k?

October 30th, 2017 at 9:42 pm


Okiegal Says:

@J-Kath…..I think it’s time for Rafa to win London too! Thanks for your support. ….I know you are ready for Andy to make an appearance. I hope he comes back rested and healthy!! It sync when your favorite is out of commission……been through that too many times!!

October 31st, 2017 at 2:09 am


Okiegal Says:

^^^^^ it stinks…..should say……oopsy!!

October 31st, 2017 at 2:10 am


j-kath Says:

Marcus @ 11.01am – 30th Oct. SAYS:

“There are two main groups in TX: Those who love Federer because he is the best and those who hate him because he is the best.”

Correct to some degree – however, there are witches and werewolves in all fan bases including Federer’s.

Hence, there is a third group on TX and it’s got nothing to do with Fed. There are genuine fans of particular players who simply want their favourite to do well – so they get disappointed when success eludes the player – no matter who the conqueror may be. At the present time Roger and Rafa are centre stage – subject to more comments directed at them than usual. Previously it was Nole who “got the devotion” because he was the best —–and there were those who hated him because he was the best.

October 31st, 2017 at 6:51 am


j-kath Says:

Okie, A-M, RZ, Margot +++++ others.

I confess to being nervous re. Andy’s return – he hasn’t gone the operation route – so how long before he does a “Wimbledon” again? If it happens, I forecast a final Retirement. Hope Roger plays full-on in the Glasgow match so that we’ll at least have an idea of Andy’s form going forward……

October 31st, 2017 at 7:00 am


AndyMira Says:

@JK….I understand how u feel…And i’m sure Okie & Willow will say the same thing…God knows we as a Rafans have had that experience more than anyone in this world i think…And i will say to u…Don’t think too much about the future coz we can’t figure it out no matter how hard we’re tried…

I once read that Andy said,he suffered his hip injury on & off when he still a kid till now…so,in between those,he managed to collect 3 slams & 2 Olympics medal…who’s to say that he will not going to do it once again JK?All i know is that The Big 4 are very special species..they can win at anytime as long as the passion & desire is still there burning,..and in the article that i posted yesterday was the clue that Andy just light up not a candle..but a roaring fire to reach his next goal…All we have to do is believe in him…Insyaallah,it will happen..

October 31st, 2017 at 8:29 am


Markus Says:

J-Kath, those witches and werewolves you are talking about are scattered all over those two main groups that I was referring to. I said “two main groups” because that is what the majority of posts look like. It does not mean there are no other groups like the ones you mentioned.

October 31st, 2017 at 9:21 am


Markus Says:

I hope Andy and Novak come back fully healed next year. Tennis is more fun with all four in full force. These four are the best and they make tennis world a better place for everyone.

October 31st, 2017 at 9:25 am


j-kath Says:

Okey doke Marcus.

A-Mira: Thanks for trying to cheer me up – I think I need a psychiatrist, a pyschologist, and a brain surgeon …but maybe I’ll see what a wee dram does for me this pm.

October 31st, 2017 at 10:16 am


t4t Says:

I think the WTF is really an exhibition masquerading as a serious professional event. As one of the fans mentioned here, ranking points should be removed from it as has been done for Davis cup and olympics. The surface on which it is played is not even a tennis court. I think it is used for all kinds of events and hastily converted to a tennis court just before WTF. There is the round robin format and if somebody withdraws even after playing one or two rounds, another player can take his place. What kind of competition is this?

October 31st, 2017 at 10:42 am


RZ Says:

J-Kath, being nervous is part of being an Andy fan. He doesn’t make it easy on us!

October 31st, 2017 at 12:26 pm


Margot Says:

AM: The reason I went with Gorgeous Grig is that I thought Paris played fast, but now I see Cuevas and Chung won really easily I’m not so sure. EEEEKK!
And if it’s playing slower, surely advantage Rafa? Except his eyes must be on a bigger prize -the WTF. Whereas I think JMDP has a chance of making the WTF so his eyes must be very fully focused on Paris. Who knows how the dice will play?
Someone I’d like to see make the WTF next year is Schwartzman. Love him, he covers the court like a wee goblin on speed. r. Looking forward to seeing him take down Isner. If he can get his racquet on the ball Isner is toast. If being the word of course.
n’t that be something? Would love to see him play dubs with JMDP. Wouldn’t that be something?
JKath: Very Eeyore about Andy.

October 31st, 2017 at 12:42 pm


the_mind_reels Says:

@t4t: the WTF has been around (under one name or another) for almost 50 years, and looking at the list of former champions, I think it’s objectively considered quite important by the players, both for points and prize money.

If you don’t like the location, take comfort in knowing that it’s changed location 8 times since 1990. Next time it might change hands is 2021. Since it looks like you’re in the Nadal camp, I’m not sure how delighted you’d be to know, but hey, Nadal will be 35 or 36 in 2021! As we know, anything’s possible at that age.

October 31st, 2017 at 3:17 pm


Wog Boy Says:

“’…Nadal will be 35 or 36 in 2021! As we know, anything’s possible at that age.”

I don’t think 36 years old is so generous (stupid) to lend Rafa some of his magic potions.

October 31st, 2017 at 5:13 pm


skeezer Says:

Now the two clowns are trying to debunk the pinnacle of the ATP tour. LOL! Good luck with that.

October 31st, 2017 at 5:57 pm


Wog Boy Says:

Slimy, I wasn’t talking about WTF.

October 31st, 2017 at 6:10 pm


j-kath Says:

Margot – Take it you are too. Had hoped just me.

October 31st, 2017 at 6:59 pm


gonzalowski Says:

PCB and Querrey, out of Paris

October 31st, 2017 at 7:06 pm


AndyMira Says:

@JK….Hehehe…U don’t need a psychiatrist,psychologist or a Brain surgeon…just a little patience,hope & believe…secret recipe is done!!…I can’t explain but my guts tells me that Nolandy will announce their comeback very strongly next year & 2019…We will see…Maybe the last hurrah…

October 31st, 2017 at 7:19 pm


AndyMira Says:

M!….Oh My God!…I love shorty too!!..If u look at my Bracket,i even picked him against Dimi!Hahaha…yeah!I know it’s crazy considering that Dimi is in the form of his life….but,it’s very possible too that Shorty can make a surprise…Can’t wait to see these 2 spar with each other tomorrow…

October 31st, 2017 at 7:40 pm


Markus Says:

Any tournament that Federer has won should be disregarded because:
a. every year that Federer has played in is a weak era
b. they were rigged to give him cupcake draws
c. his opponents were all sick when he beat them
d. the surface was against everybody else but Federer
e. the balls were tailored only for Federer.
f. the weather only suits Federer
g. the spectators cheer for him
h. Mirka cheers for him

October 31st, 2017 at 8:10 pm


t4t Says:

the mind reels, you put me in the Nadal camp? That is ok, as long as I am not in the Fed camp. I do not like how he is fawned upon and favored by ATP/ITF and the tournament organizers because of his money power. So he gets schedules, court surfaces, balls, draws all as per his specifications giving him an unfair advantage. His “resurgence” this year is very suspicious and sane ones among the Fed fan base must be disturbed and unhappy.The bulk of the Fed fans form a cult and they of course do not care.

October 31st, 2017 at 8:36 pm


skeezer Says:

t4t is in the Fed camp. Obvious.

October 31st, 2017 at 9:37 pm


the_mind_reels Says:

“So he gets schedules, court surfaces, balls, draws all as per his specifications giving him an unfair advantage.”

Does anyone have any proof of any of this?

October 31st, 2017 at 11:16 pm


skeezer Says:

^ask t4t.

October 31st, 2017 at 11:25 pm


t4t Says:

Oh yes, you can look up all the schedules, draws. Also as for court surfaces, it was pretty obvious AO surface was made to order for him.
skeezer, True if I am you, I am in the Fed camp. But skeezer is hawkeye. That means skeezer is in the same camp as hawkeye. Which camp is hawkeye in? Very confusing!

October 31st, 2017 at 11:33 pm


Tennis Stud Says:

Federer and Nadal are freaks of nature and it is almost unimaginable to play that long with that consistency and accuracy. Connors played long too but this is a whole new level in terms of beating everybody around. As a tennis fan, enjoy the matches as much as you can if they are playing well !

October 31st, 2017 at 11:34 pm


Wog Boy Says:

“Federer and Nadal are freaks of nature..”

So what happened with that “freak of nature” between W 2012 and AO 2017, didn’t look like “freak of nature”…and then…?!;)

November 1st, 2017 at 12:00 am


skeezer Says:

“Oh yes, you can look up all the schedules, draws..,.”
Weak. You can’t show it, because you can’t prove it. You’re trying to make someone else look for you,. You accuse, you have to bring the facts. You look and post the facts vs others. Otherwise, stfu.

November 1st, 2017 at 12:09 am


Margot Says:

AM: I’m sure “Shortman” can take out GG too, Was watching his last match and the way he kissed the corners with his ground strokes was fab. Have a bit more confidence in GG these days since he actually won something, but not a lot.
I see Ferrer is out. Another “old gen” slipping down the greasy pole. Has had a wonderful tennis career whatever,

November 1st, 2017 at 2:01 am


AndyMira Says:

Yeah M….Shorty seems not intimidated by any player’s no matter what their size are…so confidence and it’s really joyful to see him galivanting all over the court without fear..

I think he can beat Big John too especially now BG seems have a drop of form since his knee injury?Bout GG…the problem with him is that he’s not consistent enough…let’s see how his campaign in Paris will turned out after resting for a week and broke the momentum that he build since Beijing…

November 1st, 2017 at 2:36 am


Margot Says:

Lol AM are we the only people on here actually talking about tennis? Sean should give us a “Dedication to duty medal.” ;)

November 1st, 2017 at 2:48 am


AndyMira Says:

Hehehe…Yeah M!…I’m sure everyone else got a things to do atm…while the fans from US either zzzzz or zzzzz..hehe

Hey M!….Shorty/BG r the first to play today,u will watch it?

November 1st, 2017 at 3:28 am


Margot Says:

AM: Someone, possibly Travis or Tennis Vagabond not sure, rather wittily remarked, ” ‘I’m really looking forward to this Isner match,’ said no-one ever.” so probably not!

November 1st, 2017 at 3:36 am


AndyMira Says:

Oh really M??I’m really looking forward to ‘watch’ it with u!…and wooohooo’ed together after our Shorty beat BG…Either that or BG will kick our backside hard!!Hehehe…

November 1st, 2017 at 3:43 am


Margot Says:

Gooooooo Shortman! Whoopperdeedoop!

November 1st, 2017 at 3:47 am


chrisford1 Says:

Fed going away for Paris, plus the year ending for Novak, Andy, Stan, etc. – means this is perhaps Rafa’s last best chance to win a big trophy indoors. He has always been skunked at Paris and at the Tour Year End Championships. Indoors to Rafa is like clay to Sampras.
Fed will be back for the Barclay’s London tourney,

November 1st, 2017 at 4:32 am


j-kath Says:

Marcus @ 8.10pm. You are in danger of being believed.

Margot @ 2.48am: U and A-M are indeed the only two who are obviously knowlegeable about tennis – most of the others are mental health sufferers who need to be nurtured and tutored. So please be gentle with them – they know not what they do.

November 1st, 2017 at 5:27 am


Giles Says:

Margot. Do you read a lot of comic books? Just curious. 😉

November 1st, 2017 at 6:11 am


gonzalowski Says:

j -kath lol! zas! in our face

Marcus @ 8.10pm not agree in h), rest of them ok

November 1st, 2017 at 6:27 am


AndyMira Says:

JK!….Hahaha….Nice dig!!Hehehe…

November 1st, 2017 at 6:53 am


AndyMira Says:

M!!…Did u see our Shorty fend of BJ’s 3 MP to win 2nd sets??Ohohohohoho!!…He’s soooo mentally tough!…And u know it’s not easy to break BJ service game with that bomb serve…But our Shorty did it brilliantly!!Yess!!

November 1st, 2017 at 8:11 am


Markus Says:

JK @5:27am: Hehehe. That says it all about some posters in this place.

November 1st, 2017 at 8:13 am


Margot Says:

Giles: comics are my only reading matter, next.
Jkath: Tee hee. I’m always gentle, especially with folk who are obviously deeply troubled.
Meanwhile: Goooo Shortman. I set each now!

Jkath: re Andy.I never thought getting a bye first round suited Andy, very often he has been caught on the hop and come out cold to someone who has been thoroughly warmed up. Have no idea what his ranking will be when he comes back, but the good news might be that he doesn’t get any byes, of course the bad news is he could well meet some streaking “hot” player early on.
Eek, as I would say.

November 1st, 2017 at 8:15 am


t4t Says:

Markus @8:13 am. She included you too in the list! Ha ha! In fact the entire Cult! I don’t mind. What with me being skeezer and hawkeye and possibly kjb as well, I already knew I was in that list! Am I also a witch and a werewolf? Sounds exciting! I maybe Harry Potter or Hermione or Lupin?

November 1st, 2017 at 9:32 am


j-kath Says:

Margot: Re. Andy – at the moment he is listed No. 3 with 4,790 points- but will drop another 2,500 by end of year. With the current tennis merry-go-round, he could, with a little bit of luck, start the year as no.15. Don’t think he will qualify for a bye in Brisbane (unless there is a rash of “toppish” players who pull out).

November 1st, 2017 at 9:38 am


t4t Says:

I am not sure how serious are Andy’s ailments but Djokovic will be BACK in a big way! Fed may have to double his dose of magic potion to withstand the storm! The Cult beware!

November 1st, 2017 at 9:44 am


j-kath Says:

t4t:
How about an Irish leprechaun? They can be whatever they want to be.

November 1st, 2017 at 9:47 am


t4t Says:

jk, that’s it! Perfect! I am an Irish Leprechaun! Catch me if you can!!!

November 1st, 2017 at 9:55 am


Tennis Stud Says:

@Wog Boy, rising back after not winning any slams for five years, while getting older day by day qualifies as ‘freaks of nature’

November 1st, 2017 at 10:23 am


the_mind_reels Says:

@skeezer: I was pretty sure nobody had any real evidence, so…safe to say that settles that!

November 1st, 2017 at 11:48 am

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