Nadal, Dimitrov Bid For Australian Open Rematch; Svitolina Seeks First Slam Semi

by Staff | January 22nd, 2018, 8:26 pm
  • 241 Comments

We are down to 8 in each draw at the Australian Open. Today, the quarterfinals begin with star-studded line-up today.

In the afternoon on Rod Laver, Hobart champion Elise Mertens meets Brisbane winner Elina Svitolina for a spot in a first Grand Slam semifinal for either player.

“I have my plan, what my, you know, what I have to do on court and just, you know, go out there and fight until the last point and just give my best,” Svitolina said. “Then, you know, of course I will have few things. I know her game because I played against her once and I know what to expect from her.”


Svitolina beat Mertens in their only previous meeting last year in Istanbul.

To follow, Grigor Dimitrov tries to make a return to the semifinals against a Brit, but it’s not Andy Murray. Kyle Edmund is carrying the flag for England as the 23-year-old appears in his first Grand Slam QF.

“There is no place for underestimation or anything like that,” Dimitrov said looking ahead. “You have just got to go out there and play your tennis.

“The only thing I have been focusing since day one out here on the court is really looking after my side of the game and my side of the net. This is what I want to progress. I want to be better. And it doesn’t matter who I play. I just want to do better.”

Dimitrov has won both meetings with Edmund including in Brisbane earlier this month when the Brit rolled his ankle.

In the evening doubleheader, Rafael Nadal takes on Marin Cilic in a battle of US Open champions. Nadal was finally tested Sunday against Diego Schwartzman, and now he faces the much taller Croat. It’s also Rafa’s first meeting with a Top 20 player in a Slam since the French Open!

“I’m very pleased,” Cilic said of his week. “I felt that I played all four matches on a good quality. You know, today was, if looking some small details, I was a little bit up and down on some service games, and he was returning quite good. From both doing so, in that case it was a little bit more difficult.

“But overall I’m feeling good with the game. I’m hitting the ball really nicely, taking chances, playing aggressive, you know, taking the ball as early as I can.”

Nadal leads Cilic 5-1.

The day wraps up with former World No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki who seeks a second Australian Open semifinal against Carla Suarez Navarro who has never made a Slam final four. The Dane leads 6-2 including a 3-0 mark on hard courts.

“We’ve had a lot of tough encounters on hard courts as well,” Wozniacki said of the Spaniard. “Three-set grueling matches. I’m expecting a tough fight. Obviously I think she had a tough season last year. She also had a few injuries. Obviously she’s back playing really well.”


You Might Like:
Dimitrov v Kyrgios, Nadal, Wozniacki Headline Start Of Australian Open Fourth Round
Siniakova Surprises Sharapova, To Face Halep In Shenzhen F; Svitolina Gains Revenge On Pliskova In Brisbane
Svitolina Seeks First Title Of Year In San Jose; Venus, Anisimona In Field; Vandeweghe Makes Return
Kyrgios v Tsonga, Dimitrov v Rublev Highlight Start Of 3rd Round At Australian Open Friday
Svitolina Sinks Swiatek To Reach Wimbledon SF, Vondrousova Ousts Pegula; Rybakina v Jabeur

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241 Comments for Nadal, Dimitrov Bid For Australian Open Rematch; Svitolina Seeks First Slam Semi

Danica Says:

Wow, beautiful win Edmund!! Congrats!! Amazing.


FedExpress Says:

I dont get the speed of the courts.

Why slow down a fast place at first place, speed it up for one year and slow it down again? What’s the logic?


Anto Says:

@FedExpress, please tell me one place which says the court speed is slower than last year.
Craig Tiley has said the court speeds are the same. Even Fed says the court speed: “it’s the same… it felt fast tonight.” See the first question and his answer
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LaNjwfxtmTs


FedExpress Says:

The BH of Fed feels different when he connects with the ball.


FedExpress Says:

Did they change the balls maybe?


FedExpress Says:

Cilic, why?


FedExpress Says:

Miles out by Cilic.


FedExpress Says:

Nadal very unclutch on BPs.

Cilic holds after saving billions of BPs.


squirrel Says:

I concur with FedExpress.Eventhough officially, they said the court speed is the same as last year, I can clearly see it’s playing slower. Just check on youtube the videos of Federer’s last year’s matches and you’ll see. If it’s not the court, then maybe the balls? That’s why I’m not that confident that Federer can replicate the awesome play especially the BH of last year.


FedExpress Says:

squirrel, Federer can even beat Nadal on a slow court, see Miami last year.


Van orten Says:

Fed express . Just check the ace and winner stats on every match … it shows high numbers . It feels if you go for your shots the ball gets pretty fast … even nadal is aggressive knowing rod laver is way faster than Arthur ashe


FedExpress Says:

BP Cilic. Form nowhere.


j-kath Says:

Well done Kyle – huge win. Keep it up….each match better than the previous.


FedExpress Says:

Good job Cilic. Self imploding at its best.


FedExpress Says:

The hair transplantation did nothing for Nadal.


gonzalowski Says:

Fed ex hehe.. .
Rafa not playing brilliant today, let’s see


Anto Says:

Rafa not playing great. But since Cilic is doing what cilic does typcially (playing inconsistent tennis) rafa already a set up


FedExpress Says:

Nadal should just bald gracefully.


squirrel Says:

@Fedexpress, true, Fed has shown that, we’ll see, hope for the best!


FedExpress Says:

He put that short ball away Cilic. But more often than not he nets simple balls.


squirrel Says:

Yeah, too bad for Nadal about his hair (although it’s still okay!). But with his wealth and many advanced medical treatments nowadays, I don’t understand why he hasn’t sought these options, or maybe he has and it’s nor working? Poor thing


squirrel Says:

Lots of short balls from Cilic. Nadal in three at this rate.


FedExpress Says:

Cilic shouldnt pump himself up after every good point he plays. Looks dumb when he loses the next point in an odd fashion.


gonzalowski Says:

about hair thing, “better accept happily what natures brings you”, as they said in ‘Karate kid’


FedExpress Says:

BP wasted by Cilic. Wouldnt surprise me if he gets broken now.


gonzalowski Says:

Clic is gonna be tired soon, maybe


Margot Says:

Ooh, Cilic looks tasty in that kit. Ouch, ouch don’t hit me you guys…..not as nice as Rafa….ob vi ous ly!


FedExpress Says:

Cilic at the net. Simple put away volley. What does he do? Into Rafas FH zone.

2 Bps.


Giles Says:

Lol FE talking about Rafa’s hair. Fed gonna need a toupee soon. Have you not noticed the receding hairline? It will recede to the back of his head soon. ROFL


gonzalowski Says:

Congrats for Edmund!!!!

great passing now Rafa


FedExpress Says:

Broken. Cilic has no tennis brain.


FedExpress Says:

@Giles

He accepted his fate like a man. Unlike Rafa.


Giles Says:

FE. You crack me up sometimes. BTW why aren’t you at school? Fed. not playing today.


FedExpress Says:

from 0-30 to 40-30

Cilic,why?


gonzalowski Says:

but Rafa not great, hope it’s not the knee :(


FedExpress Says:

Netting a FH on BP. NID.


FedExpress Says:

@Giles

finished school some years back.


FedExpress Says:

Break Cilic. Adje.


FedExpress Says:

When nothing works, start trying to moonball. Rafa.


gonzalowski Says:

When nothing works, escape (as clay season). Fed.


Anto Says:

unless cilic gifts another break to Rafa, Cilic is most probably going to win this set (even if it goes to a tiebreaker)


Van Persie Says:

“He accepted his fate like a man. Unlike Rafa.”

If Roger would also accept day matches, like the others ….and not use the “old age ” excuse…
Serena has the same age, do not remember her complaining and asking only for night matches. That is dignity!!


FedExpress Says:

What a FH


Anto Says:

Is it just me or is Rafa not winning much second serve points?


FedExpress Says:

@van persie

Dont lie. And he played his last match in daylight.


FedExpress Says:

BP Cilic. He is in the zone and Nadal in a hole.


Van Persie Says:

^^ Yeah right.


J.S. Says:

OMG FED EXPRESS! petty much?


FedExpress Says:

Adje

Cilic serving for the 2nd set.


FedExpress Says:

30-0

2 more points


squirrel Says:

Well well well, Cilic finally woke up. Nadal will surely bounce back. Let’s see if Cilic can serve for the set, nothing is sure for him!


FedExpress Says:

2 SPs


squirrel Says:

Van Persie still bitter about the schedule as if it’s all Fed’s fault…


FedExpress Says:

2nd set Cilic

after going break down in the 2nd he won 4 straight games. Breaking Nadal twice. WOW


Van Persie Says:

^^ Sorry Squirrel.,

Will be more focused on Rafa’s lack of hair….much more important, than Roger’s lack of dignity


squirrel Says:

Come on, you can’t be serious accusing Fed for lack of dignity?? Oh well, you are entitled for your opinions but you seem bitter. Did you forget your happy pills this morning? ;)


squirrel Says:

Come on, you can’t be serious accusing Fed for lack of dignity?? Oh well, you are entitled for your opinions but you seem bitter. Did you forget your happy pills this morning? ;)


J.S. Says:

I don’t think Fed will win the tournament if he does it’s not because he is the best, it’s because he has had preferential treatment! I wouldn’t want my fav to win like that!


FedExpress Says:

JS and VP are bitter. As always.


Margot Says:

Lol VP. Still on a roll from yesterday? Obviously the can of petrol didn’t do the trick, what next….;)


squirrel Says:

@J.S.

All top players have preferential treatment, it’s part of the deal when you’re well-known. Same goes to Rafa and Nole… stop acting you care so much it, you just want to be bitter against Fed..


FedExpress Says:

What about not giving rafa time violations more frequently?


squirrel Says:

Nadal lost from 3-2 up, sort of like the final set of last year’s final against Fed. But I think he’ll take the next two? But good for Cilic as it is his first set won against Nadal is GS!


Van Persie Says:

“Did you forget your happy pills this morning? ;)”

I will skip it for now, but next time I will accept this kind of challenges :) I love them, you little animal


squirrel Says:

Yes, Rafa receive preferential treatment about the time violation but it makes sense since he’s the star…


squirrel Says:

I’ll call your doctor so that he can force you to take them ;)


FedExpress Says:

Cilic’s serve has gotten worse over the years.


J.S. Says:

Actually I respect Federer’s game!


FedExpress Says:

Cilic has that hot spell going on. Should make it count as long as it lasts.


FedExpress Says:

Push for once Cilic. And dont pull trigger so early.


squirrel Says:

@J.S.

Glad to hear! ;)


Van Persie Says:

“I’ll call your doctor so that he can force you to take them ;)”

Gladly accept it, if this would help to see the things as you do. :)


FedExpress Says:

Big Chance missed Cilic


J.S. Says:

VP….
We couldn’t get enough to keep up w/ the jeoulosy! No drugs can fix that…SAD haters!


squirrel Says:

@Van Persie

Oh I can’t guarantee you that though. To see the way I see it, you need to have years and years of wisdom to be fully Fed’s fan…hehe. Though it can help you on being less bitter, that I can guarantee ;)


FedExpress Says:

That volley. lmfao.


FedExpress Says:

30-30 when he should have been 40-0 up


J.S. Says:

Great Match – glad you guys are enjoying, LOL


FedExpress Says:

Nadal getting slowly is mojo back.


squirrel Says:

@J.S.

You’re a Rafa’s fan right? You’re not enjoying it?


Van Persie Says:

Agree Squirrel,

Would need most likely a brain surgery…medication would not be enough:

http://animals.mom.me/smart-squirrel-6321.html


FedExpress Says:

Cilic missed the train i am afraid.


squirrel Says:

@VP

Hahaha, thank you for recognizing my species’ smartness, hope it will inspire you :)


J.S. Says:

VP = we are spitting in the wind!! so crazy the hate!


Daniel Says:

Just woke up and saw Dimi is out. That’s why I said from the get go Nadal’s draw was easy, Dimi/Krgios were not guarantee to be in semis and they are not.

At least Cilil won a set for a change. They are in middle of third set and just passed 2 hours. This could be long. To bad I won’t be able to watch it. Have to go work shortly. Will just check scores.


Van Persie Says:

J.S.,

I will stop, promise. Now matter what comes next.;)

I cannot see Rafa’s match, watching the score only.


J.S. Says:

LOL I am betting on RAFA! But hate the haters on here! It’s crazy!


FedExpress Says:

Why is Cilic aiming the lines everytime he hits?


FedExpress Says:

FH DTL works well for Cilic for now.


FedExpress Says:

What a BH

BP Cilic.


FedExpress Says:

Serve netted. Damn.


AndyMira Says:

God!..I hate to see rafa play soo defensive!!


FedExpress Says:

Fake Vamonsing by Rafa.


Anto Says:

It look like this set is also going


Daniel Says:

Cilic’s FH DTL is working.


Anto Says:

Now cilic playing good tennis.


FedExpress Says:

Cilic’s chance just gone down the toilet.

He had the power but netted some simple balls.


Anto Says:

Rafa just hanging there.


FedExpress Says:

Now see Cilic getting broken.

Some patterns never change.


Van orten Says:

So predictable break here for Rafa … Jesus cilic !!!! Why is it always the same story with nadal .:: what a tough but to break


FedExpress Says:

or not…


Van orten Says:

Nadal is a mental monster … he will never give up .. what a warrior . How do you create that will ???


Anto Says:

If we get a fedal final and Rafa is playing like this he is not even going to win a set let alone the match.


FedExpress Says:

The umpire is clearly a rafa fangirl.


squirrel Says:

Hi AM! Glad to see you’re here! Wishing you luck on your fav! :)


J.S. Says:

VAN –

Rafa just never gives up, crazy good and has such heart = mucho respect!!!!


Anto Says:

Rafa is probably going to lose his serve here. Though I hope not


J.S. Says:

Very intense 3rd set…much expected! ENJOYING!


AndyMira Says:

Oh!..Hi back Squirrel bro!…hehe..thanks for your good wishes…God!Rafa makes my chest hurt!!..


FedExpress Says:

Dont lose you serve now Cilic. Hang in there. Stay tough.


squirrel Says:

oh I understand! but I think he will get through, even though he’s not playing at his best. He’s too much in Cilic’s head. Try to relax! :)


Daniel Says:

Cilicl had 3 BP’s and didn’t cover now, Set Point Nadal.


FedExpress Says:

Game is cruel.
Nadal has been 2nd best all set.


AndyMira Says:

Oh!i’m not worry whether he can win or not today squirrel…insyaallah he will win..but i’m more worried the time that he has to spent on court today…he cannot afford another 4 hrs squirrel…otherwise he’ll be toast against Edmond or Fed..


FedExpress Says:

Hats off to Cilic.


squirrel Says:

Oh yeah I get it about the time on court. But luckily it’s the night session, so less taxing on the body!


squirrel Says:

Yeah, admirable on Cilic’s part to hold there, Nadal was putting lots of pressure!


Anto Says:

Tiebreaker it is


squirrel Says:

Exciting TB!


Anto Says:

Nadal almost always takes the first mini-break and gives it back pretty soon these days


Van Persie Says:

Hey Squirrel,

Just got some pills….and talked to another squirrel. The species is very offended, that a Fed fan bears their name here on Tennis X…They just said, they can do much better than that.:)


squirrel Says:

@VP

Heyyyy are you sure you talked to the right one?? As far as I know, we have decided to support the best/most honorable player, which is…you can guess it I’m sure now that you’ve taken the pills!

So the one you talked to must be having a confused day surely! ;)


J.S. Says:

Rafa is amazing! He wins pure gut and determination…..LOVE HIM!


AndyMira Says:

YESSSSS!!WOOOOOOOHOOOOOO!!….VAMOS RAFA!!!


Van Persie Says:

No fake Squirrel,

They just told me they wan the bald guy to win, because he has the balls to play in the sun :)


squirrel Says:

Amazing effort by Rafa! but Cilic too stressed out to have any effect.


Van orten Says:

I mean this has to be the choke of the tournament by cilic !!! Wow wow wow .. how does he do it over and over again to choke like that with his forehand … good news is Federer has the forehand to finish nadal and his short balls offf . Cilic has not


squirrel Says:

@VO

Yeah a huge choke from Cilic, he must be utterly disppointed, poor lad!


J.S. Says:

Sguirrel
I am glad to hear that beacause you were jumped on the UGLY band wagon – no reason for that here! FED EXPRESS is on a the ugly mission, jusmp off the train!
it’s a great match folks!


J.S. Says:

excuse my typos….LOL Got a little excited!


squirrel Says:

@J.S.

I’m not sure if I ever jumped on the ugly band wagon, as you put it. Receipt? I’ve always tried to be respectful..


Wog Boy Says:

It’s strange that mostly 36 years old fans are commenting Rafa’s match, I wonder why?
And squirrel is squealing like the piglet when you twist it’s ears.


Van orten Says:

1981 what a year ;)


J.S. Says:

Squirrel,
Scroll up…..But I appreciate you saying that!

It’s a great match! Who willl prevail? Both want it SO bad!


squirrel Says:

I am watching Rafa’s match becaus I enjoy his tennis as well, and I like to follow any GS. It doesn’t have to be one way or the other, how small-minded you are, no surprise there, lol


squirrel Says:

@J.S.

I’ve scrolled up, but I’ve no idea what you’re talking about, but it’s okay, no hard feeling!

Yeah, but wanted it so badly but Rafa’s the more determined one so he’ll win for sure!


Wog Boy Says:

Stop squealing and watch the match.


squirrel Says:

*crickets chirp*


J.S. Says:

WB…..You okay?? Have you heard anything else about Djokovic injury? I looked everywhere for his post interview and nothing!


Van orten Says:

Even on a fast court like this it takes an out of this world effort to beat nadal here !!! But it is possible .. better chances than here you will next get in Shanghai in Oktober.. nadal clearly struggling in that conditions in comparison to slower courts … but nadal is nadal


Van orten Says:

Even on a fast court like this it takes an out of this world effort to beat nadal here !!! But it is possible .. better chances than here you will next get in Shanghai in Oktober.. nadal clearly struggling in these conditions in comparison to slower courts … but nadal is nadal


squirrel Says:

Perfectly put VO but I think Nadal is also vulnerable at Wimbledon but other than that, yeah he’s impenetrable for sure!


Wog Boy Says:

J.S.
Just got back home, didn’t have time to check latest on Novak.


Van Persie Says:

Crickets are offended now!!!…


squirrel Says:

Hahaha, crickets won’t get offended by squirrel, promise!! ;)


Wog Boy Says:

Cilic is very aggressive and picking up ball really early, going for broke almost every shot. Tough night for Rafa.


Van orten Says:

For cilic too ab


Okiegal Says:

I’m a Rafa fan girl!!!


All Out Says:

Nadal is not playing well today. Cilic is playing well in patches. If this goes the distance, i see Nadal cracking under pressure. Time to raise your level champ. Vamos!!


Van orten Says:

68 winners in 3 1/2 sets by cilic … unreal


Anto Says:

Looks like nadal having issues


FedExpress Says:

Fake MTO taken by nadal to break cilics momentum

Anything to say JS and VP?!?!


Wog Boy Says:

Cilic is playing same level of tennis as when he demolished 36 years old at USO. Just fearless tennis and everything is going in. Full of confidence.


Anto Says:

It looks like match over now


J.S. Says:

FEDEX – Are you serious? WOW


Van Persie Says:

FedEx,

I do not see the match. Squirrels did not mention anything about MTO….they just want fake squirrel from Tennis X to change her/his moniker.


Van orten Says:

Hahahha a little bit of Show it was I must admit . Watch cilic Crack under pressure now …


Van orten Says:

Or not … but nadal is nadal I keep repeating myself


J.S. Says:

Cilic beats Rafa….better man won! But stop the craziness – FEDEX you are obsessed!


FedExpress Says:

0-40

and after that Rafa runs everything down and holds.

Cilic, dont get tricked.

@JS

are you serious with your allegations?


Wog Boy Says:

Rafa is limping, he is not faking.


Van orten Says:

This looks like wawa v Rafa 2014 final .. cilic just needs to keep the pressure up . Easier said than done


Margot Says:

Wow Cilic. And now going to serve first in the last set, always an advantage.
Are you there Wog Boy?


AndyMira Says:

Both Novak & Rafa didn’t play in lead up tourney before AO..and both have new injury…this is what i’m afraid of before the AO start…oh well…


Van orten Says:

No schadenfreude here cuz I believe fed will have a hard time tomorrow too


Wog Boy Says:

Cilic looks like he just started the match now, Rafa looks tired, sounds strange, but Cilic with his aggression wore Rafa down.


Wog Boy Says:

No Margot, just arrived back home an hour ago, couldn’t stay.


Van orten Says:

The painkiller kicks in after 20 -30 min maybe he is waiting for that


Wog Boy Says:

AO is cursed for Rafa, third time he is injured and every time in QF, Andy, David and now Marin, I feel for him right now.


squirrel Says:

@VP

I’m the real deal!


FedExpress Says:

Cilic, 3 Bps to start with. All wasted. How on earth?


Tennis Lover Says:

Us, Federer Fans should not be wildly celebrating if Nadal loses today even though we know with Nadal it never is a straightforward conclusion given than his tenacity and relentlessness can sometimes wear the opponent down. What I believe, in spite of being heavy favorite Berdych is in great contention to beat our man. All berdman needs a nervous day in the office for Maestro and applying himself well to feast on Fed’s tentativeness or nervousness. We have to keep calm see what our man can do..at 36, grand slam victory is not given unless you take it to the opponent and earn. For I would be thrilled again to see Federer VS Nadal Final and hopefully Fed winning it again. The H2H is a perennial thorn in our path, Fed should earn another opportunity to reduce his H2H against his old foe Nadal. If that happens, then we can celebrate wildly and justifiably so.


squirrel Says:

Poor Rafa in pain…what a warrior still going on..


FedExpress Says:

Nadal retires.


Daniel Says:

Nadal´s track record in Grand Slam five set matches is not great latelly. He lost last yaer to Fed in 5, to Muller in five. Lost to Pouille in 2016 and in 2015 to Fogninin in 5 in USO and Verdasco in 5 in AO in 2016.

Now already a break down in 5 to Cilic


Wog Boy Says:

Squealing piglet is having an extended orgasm from last night, and few others too.


All Out Says:

Well.. Injury or no injury.. Today, Nadal deserved to lose. Cilic was just wonderful. I hope we have a new AO champ for once. Over to FO now. Vamos.


Margot Says:

And Rafa has retired. So sorry all you Rafa fans on here. Like Nole and Stan, came back too early?
Cheering for Chung or Edmund now. Wouldn’t that be something!
Cheers Wog Boy, at least you got to see Nole and were pleased with what you saw. Fingers crossed for elbow.


Daniel Says:

Wow, he just retired. Too long and gruelling match for him. Must have felt the knee.


squirrel Says:

Commies AM, J.S., Willow and others…such a shame


AndyMira Says:

I can’t believe i have to endure sad moments 2 nights in a row!!…Urgh!!..isk!isk!


Wog Boy Says:

Absolutely Margot, and yes, fingers crossed:)


squirrel Says:

Sorry to hear AM..hope you’re not too traumatized…


AndyMira Says:

Thanks squirrel!…but life goes on…Wish Rafa a speedy recovery…so much sadness & angst this AO…


squirrel Says:

Your champ will be back in no time, don’t worry!


AndyMira Says:

Hope so squirrel!..Thank u….


Margot Says:

Hugs from me, darling AM xxxxxxxxxxxx
And hugs to the other gals too.


Okiegal Says:

Thanks Margot!!


AndyMira Says:

Thanks M…Really really sad now…


Tennis Lover Says:

Us, Federer Fans should not be celebrating Nadal’s loss, he has shown his usual tenacity and relentlessness even in the defeat. In spite of being heavy favorite, Fed can also lose to Berdych. All Berdman needs is applying himself well to feast on Fed’s nervousness and weakness. We have to keep calm see what our man can do..at 36, grand slam victory is not given unless you take it to the opponent and earn it. For, I am extremely saddened to see that we will not see Federer VS Nadal final this year. The H2H is a perennial thorn in our path, Fed has lost another opportunity to reduce H2H against his old foe Nadal assuming he beats 2 other opponents to reach in the final. But, who cares about H2H if Fed earns coveted grand slam number 20! But, what is puzzling is that, something is wrong with this year’s Australian open. Fed has to be very very careful and assert his game plan with strategic and physical finesse. Otherwise, we might have to lick the same wounds which is hurting Nadal’s and Djokovic’s fans right now.


Daniel Says:

Willow will be devstaed. She already hates AO, now after this she would hate it even more. My sentiments.

Indeed looks like he is cursed here. But in the end with his success in USO, it balances things out.


Daniel Says:

If RG was in a month time he would win it again without losing a set. He played some great tennis on a fast HC and on clay he would be unstopable. He needs time to recover properly, don’t play Acaulpi nor Dubai, just IW/Miami.


Okiegal Says:

My commentators said they think it’s a hip injury…. didn’t mention knee…..but the way the trainer was working on him it didn’t appear like it was knee related.,,..


Van Persie Says:

Had always much respect for Rafa, even before I was a Nole fan, and feel sorry for him, now even more because I understand the situation much better, with Djoko in the same crisis. Wish them both and Andy( very much missed at this tournament), to come back , even if they will never be the same, I think…


Daniel Says:

Tennis Lover,

I had this same odd feeling ref this AO, specially as final is on my birthday. Hope is not a sour one;-)

Either Fed loses to Berdych and someone new wins it, or he wins the whole thing.


squirrel Says:

@Daniel

Surely your birthday will bring luck to our champ! ;)


Tennis Lover Says:

I have a strong bet…Djokovic will return to his full fitness during French open time….He will give Nadal run for his money…No offence to Rafa fans, I feel Rafa is not going to win French open this year. But who cares, he is the king of clay and won it freaking 10 times…It is impossible for any man to keep winning one trophy for such long time with tireless consistency even if it is Rafa whose legacy on clay is undisputed.


Okiegal Says:

Congrats to Cilic and all of his fans……he played awesome tonight!…..Will he hoist the trophy??? Nope….I believe Roger will do it again!

Get well Rafa……I believe Indian Wells is next!


Daniel Says:

Hope so squirrel,

Last year when I found it was the day of the final I almost schedule my vacation to attend it, but it was too close and $$$;-).
AO is the only Slam I miss to watch live and is in my bucket list before I turn 40, and Fed retires. Window is closing.


j-kath Says:

Very sorry Rafa has re-injured himself. Would have loved him to win. If it is any consolation he still retains his no.1 position, no matter who wins AO – something to cuddle up to.

I try and fail to like Cilic – so am hoping Kyle whips his skinny ass.


squirrel Says:

Wow Daniel, you almost made it last year, and had you made it, I’m sure it would have been one of your finest birthday ever, seeing how it ended! But I hope you got to catch it live. I did and it was one of my best moments as Fed fan!

Lucky you, you’ve been to the other Slams, so jealous! Can’t you make it to this year’s final??


Daniel Says:

I wish squirrel, I am in Rio, too far away. Maybe if I win the loterry tomorrow I’ll still have time;-) hehe


squirrel Says:

Here’s hoping! :)


Tennis Lover Says:

I see two possibilities here for Federer either he’s gonna lose to Berdych; or he will finish ’em all in straight sets like he did in Wimbledon ’17; now that is something I call Maestro at his best. But, watch out for Berdych match!


j-kath Says:

Fed. will beat Berdych in 4 sets.


Daniel Says:

Cilic won 157 points in the 302 points match, 83 were winner out of this. Amazing! He won 53% of his points with winners. Can get any better than that. Ao stats doesn’t show UE, but even if he had 50 his numbers are still great.

He liks fast courts (won Cincy title) and the few I watched the ball was landing in his striking zone. Would not be surpised at all if he wins the whole thing. He would have to hold it mentally. But either Fed or Berdych would play a very different match than Nadal.


Willow Says:

Thanks Daniel, Margot and Squirrel for the commies, a bit dissapointed but its all cool, i was working so didnt even see the match, anyway i lead a great life, so its not the end of the world lol ….


Willow Says:

Federer was always the favorite, so nothings really changed, and i think he will get number 20 now, but pulling for Kyle, or one of the new guys left will be a lovely story ….


Willow Says:

I Woder if Fedexpress with ever say anything intelligent, put it this way im not holding my breath ?


Willow Says:

^Wonder ^


Giles Says:

FE. Are you for real with your nasty comments? Sooo Rafa took a fake MTO to break cilic’s momentum.
You really are the pits!
Waiting for Karma!


BBB Says:

There’s a race to the bottom here that I wish would end. You accuse the player I like of doing x, so I accuse the player you like of doing x, or y, and around and around it goes.

I really like Djokovic. But I think he misuses MTOs sometimes. I can’t stand Federer, but I don’t think he dopes.

You’re not ceding territory by making an effort to be objective.


skeezer Says:

BBB,
You break through all the rhetoric here and see truth. Kudos to you!
#respect


skeezer Says:

Daniel,
At what point does Rafa’s #1 ranking become in jeopardy? Someone said he is still #1 after AO no matter what….


Mridul7 Says:

If Federer wins the whole thing, and Rafa doesn’t play before IW, then Fed gets No. 1 as Rafa defends finals points from Acapulco.


RZ Says:

@Skeezer, I read that if Fed wins the AO again, Rafa will have a 155 point lead over him. So a lot would depend on the extent of Rafa’s injury and absence. Also, it depends on how much Fed is playing. He had his dumb loss to Donskoy at Dubai last year. Assuming Fed plays Dubai again, he is likely to gain points there. After that, he would be defending points in Indian Wells and Miami.


RZ Says:

Thanks Mridul7. I forgot to include any points Rafa was defending in my post.


Daniel Says:

skeezer,

If Fed retains his AO title he can be #1 after Dubai or soon if he chooses to play Roterda.

Even if Nadal plays Acapulco where he defends 300 pts and win it. If Federer also wins in Dubai he will be #1.

If Nadal doesn’t play Acapulco and defends his 300 pts, Fed will be #1 after Dubai even if he doesn’t play.

Defending his AO title he will only be trailing Nadal by 155 pts.
He has 45 pts in Dubai to Nadal 300 in Acapulco.

So, Fed can be #1 at March 5th when Nadal’s Acapulco points drop. Unless he plays Roterdam before it, if he wants to be #1 sooner. But that will depend on Nadal’s scheudle as well, if he chooses to play SA clay swing or not.

Bottom line, if Fed wins AO, he will 95% be oldest #1 before IW for a few weeks.


skeezer Says:

Thanks all. And I forgot Fed has all this points to defend on the winter HC’s. But so does Rafa….
Will be very interesting going forward… lots of variables ( health, etc ).
Anyone knows if Cilic wins what is ranking will be? He is 6 now…


Daniel Says:

If Cilic wins he will be #3.

Actually if he reaches finals he will be #3 regardless because Dimi will lose 360 pts, and Cilic lost R2 last year.


j-kath Says:

Daniel: Rafa had 32 unforced errors and Cilic had 62.


Daniel Says:

JK,

Wow. A lot of errors from Cilic. That highlight his go for it aproach, either he made a winner or miss, and Nadal’s winners as well.


Willow Says:

Agree with you J.Kath on Cilic i cant stand the guy either, and really hope Kyle kicks his skinny arse, hoping for Kyle to get to the final against one of the other new guys, would love a brand new champion now ….


j-kath Says:

Yep Daniel – Risky play….or “putting it all out there”. Think Kyle has a decent chance at a win when they meet.


Daniel Says:

Saw Kyle play only once and he has a pretty solid game, no real flaws.

But curoius to see if he will be zoning in confidance or feeling the ocasion. Night match Rod laver semis, with the biggest win of his career on the horizon.

Even so, to beat Dimi which many consider third favorite for the title, was huge already. Cilic oscilates, so he will definitly have chances.


Tony N Says:

Overall match
Total points won: Cilic 157; Nadal 145
Total Winners: Cilic 83; Nadal 39
Conversion of Break points: Cilic 5 of 19 BPs; Nadal 2 of 10
Aces: Cilic 20; Nadal 2

Nadal was statistically superior only in set 1 that he won. Cilic was statistically superior in sets 2, 4 and 5.

In Set 2, Cilic had 4 breakpoints (converted 2) to Nadal’s 2 BP (converted 1). Cilic also had 16 winners to Nadal’s 7. Cilic 34 total points to Nadal’s 28.

Third set that Nadal won 7-6 (7-5). Cilic could have won the third set as he had 3 breakpoints to Nadal’s 1 BP (neither converted). Cilic also had 24 winners to Nadal’s 10. Cilic 46 total points to Nadal’s 48. Even the ESPN commentators felt that Cilic was the slightly better player in this set that Nadal stole in the tie break.

In Set 4, Cilic had 5 breakpoints (converted 2) to Nadal’s 0 BP. Cilic also had 21 winners to Nadal’s 3. Cilic 32 total points to Nadal’s 22.

Conclusion: By fourth set, Nadal surely realized that Cilic was possibly going to beat him — even before the injury drama started.

https://ausopen.com/match/Rafael-Nadal-vs-Marin-Cilic-MS501


Willow Says:

No problem as much as i dislike Cilic, saw the highlights and he was by far the better player ….


J.S. Says:

2 nights in a row….my heart can’t take it!
Rafa was getting an MRI today on his upper leg, he said it was not his hip. The injury happened in the 3rd match at 3/2.
Hoping it’s not serious!

Hoping both Djokovic and Nadal fans get good news soon – it’s been a very emotional AO tournament wl lots of controversy!

The Good News – Some rising stars that seem to be genuine-nice athletes! Edmund, Chung, Sandgren that we have gotten to know during the AO! They have been fun to watch – nice to see some youg kids that aren’t bad boys! They have peaked my interest and easy to root for!
I have even enjoyed some WTA matches, Davies? and the Hseih matches were both SO good!

Thanks to everyone who have been so nice during an emotional time for some of us! :)


J.S. Says:

Ops 3rd set of match – Sorry!


Okiegal Says:

@Giles 11:46……I watched last year’s Aussie final the other day and and I had forgotten that Roger took two MTOs……..but I guess GOATS need rub downs too……..😂😂😂


J.S. Says:

WB – Any updates on Djokovic or Nadal?
HAHA OKIE!

Anyone watching Chung/Sandgren??


Daniel Says:

Sandgreen has a powerful FH, he is smacking some shots and Chung or should we call him, SHOWung keeps returning some amazing shots. Already a break up.


Wog Boy Says:

J.S.
Nothing so far, no new information, but instead guessing ourselves about injuries (I am not qualified) this is opinion about Nole from specialist, Dr Peter Brukner, who knows everything about elbow and tendons, and even being diplomatic his opinion is not very optimistic, I agree, take few minutes and read it:

————-
Experienced sports medicine expert Dr Peter Brukner, said that although surgery was among the options, the question that will be asked is: will that help?

“The issue is he’s tried the non-surgical route and that hasn’t worked, clearly, so whether surgery is going to do any better or not is arguable,’’ said Brukner, the professor of sports medicine at La Trobe University, with a long client list that has included AFL, soccer and the Australian cricket team.

“If they thought surgery was the best treatment, they’d have done the six months ago. It sounds like the tissue is pretty degenerative and it’s not that easy to restore degenerative tissue.

“It’s a load issue, really. There’s enormous forces going through those two tendons at the elbow with the topspin and so on, so it’s probably not surprising.

“It’s like an Achilles in a runner or a patellar tendon in a basketballer or a volleyballer. It’s just enormous forces through these tendons and they don’t have a good blood supply, so they take a long time to heal, and that’s why we try and find things that help.’

Cortisone typically has been one option, and blood injections among the newer treatments, although the jury is still out as to the effectiveness, and whether it’s the time off and the rehabilitation that actually makes the difference, according to Brukner.

Then there’s surgery, and there’s no doubt that Team Djokovic will be considering every avenue to usher the former world No.1 back to competitive good health.

“Tendons are one of the biggest challenges we have in our area,’’ said Brukner. “Once they’re in trouble, it’s very hard to get them right in a really elite athlete. You’d imagine Novak had the best opinions, the best physios, the best treatment and all that sort of stuff. And that hasn’t enabled it to withstand the load.”
—————


AndyMira Says:

WB…Do u think Novak being a vegetarian contributed to why he’s very slow in his recovery?


Wog Boy Says:

AM,
Don’t start me on that one, I stated my opinion on that (and few other things in Nole’s private life) last year and got in trouble with some Nole and not Nole fans.


J.S. Says:

OH NO! WB – That is NOT good news for Djokovic and fans/team! Let’s hope they come up w/ something.
Nothing on Rafa’s MRI as of now….Fingers crossed for all of them, including Andy! Oh how I miss them already!

CHUNG is kicking butt!! He is just like Djok, it’s amazing! LOVE watching him!


Wog Boy Says:

J.S.
It is what it is, I never had a big hope in his come back due to few reasons, not just injury.
As a fan I can’t complain about pleasure of watching my favorite all those years and results he achieved, but when the curtains are going down they are going down and you have to recognize that moment.
The curtains on Nole’s great career are going down, it is the matter just to enjoy what’s left in him in joyful manners and not to watch him struggle, that is something wouldn’t like to see.


AndyMira Says:

Hehe..sorry WB!…But,honestly i kept thinking about this from last year..Is it coincidence that Nole start getting injured when he became so thin[i take it from lack of basic & important food that he’s avoid]and we all know that food is very important to rebuild & make our body strong…

And also a fact when he’s on his peak[5 years straight],he’s not suffered any major injury..and he still not become a vegetarian then…so..


Wog Boy Says:

AM,
You will find your answer in my previous post when I said “..due to few reasons, not just injury?”
He drastically changed his life style and life philosophy in the last two years and that shows on court, but if he is privately happy with that who am I to complain.
I won’t elaborate anymore, this was already too much.


AndyMira Says:

WB…Yeah,i understand now…Thank u for your answer tho..really appreciates your thought!


Van Persie Says:

Woke up much earlier to watch a bit of Chung’s match.

Goo Chung!

See Angie had a short match…should Halep win today (H2H against Karo Pliskova favours her, but who knows), do not think she could win against Kerber.

WB,

Did read Brukner’s theory yesterday :(…
Who knows, I still hope Novak can heal his elbow.
I remember he head issues also in 2014 with the right elbow?

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