Place to vent your random tennis or non-tennis thoughts.

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Posted by tennisplanet on January 25, 2008

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This entry was posted on January 25, 2008 at 11:54 am and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

162 Responses to “Place to vent your random tennis or non-tennis thoughts.”

Jenny said

February 2, 2008 at 2:54 pm
Oops TP – sorry I missed this thread and tend to use ‘question’ to communicate with others, apologies – I’ll get used to it.

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Jenny said

February 2, 2008 at 4:04 pm
Just an update on Davis Cup and for fans of the Armada. As you know, Rafael has pulled out of the tie with Peru. Unfortunately, David Ferrer has been forced to pull out too. Sadly, he incurred a painful tendon strain in his leg while practising, and has been advised by doctors to rest for 5/6 days while taking anti inflammatory drugs before a further assessment. His place has been taken by Feliciano Lopez. Rest and recover well Ferru!

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Jenny said

February 3, 2008 at 5:21 am
Congratulations Fena!!

Excerpt from his speech:

“I’m happy to have won this tournament once again but a little sad for Juan (Monaco) who wasn’t able to play the final. He is a great player and even better person,” said Gonzalez. “It’s tough for him not be able to play tomorrow’s final and probably miss Davis Cup next week. We are good friends and I hope he recovers fast from this injury.”

Another wounded soldier out of Davis Cup.

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Lucy said

February 3, 2008 at 2:17 pm
Folks–I just read online that Federer is attending the Superbowl in Arizona. HUH? I thought he was madly training in Dubai. Someone who cares about American football and is watching this nonsense, please report back. Ta.

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Eva said

February 3, 2008 at 11:02 pm
I read some alleged reports of Fed attending the Super Bowl, and got the red carpent treatment.
Good for him! I think it is a good thing to do.
Feb/02/04 was when Fed got his #1 ranking, and which he has held for 200 weeks and counting consecutively.
Anyone heard if Vaidisove married Stepanek. I would like to tell her, no, please. First, she is too young, and I know that these kinds of unions usually are not lasting.
It’s somewhat different if Vaidisova were older, then the age difference wouldn’t count for as much. But she is young–and I’ve been there in that situation–and the funny thing about Stepanek,
is his personality. I think Vaidisova is a more intense person, and could prove to be a bad match tempera,ment wise, aside from the age difference.

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Gracie said

February 4, 2008 at 12:44 pm
Eva, I saw an interview with Vaidisova on the Tennis Channel where she said the Stepanek engagement stories were all rumors and quite untrue…
Also, I believe Roger has held the #1 rank for 210 weeks, as of Feb 4th.

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Jenny said

February 8, 2008 at 5:54 pm
As much as I support Davis Cup, it does appear this tie is cursed.

Now Djokovic and Tipsarevic have succumbed. David Ferrer sustained a leg injury while practising for DC, and now because of it, sadly he’s had to withdraw from Marseille. Juan Monaco couldn’t play either because of an ankle injury. I wish all the sick and wounded well. Ferru – patience!

GB losing to Argentina wasn’t pretty, although Jamie Baker tried his hardest bless him, he was totally outclassed by David N who played beautiful text book tennis. I thought the Argentine crowd were going to be baying for blood, but they were pretty respectful given it was DC, so credit to them.

Well, one good thing, I got to see David Nalbandian play so that made up for it!

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Eva said

February 8, 2008 at 8:45 pm
Gracie, thanks for the update regarding Vaidisova. Good for her! So this was just another rumor.One absolutely cannot take them seriously, especially when it is about a player’s private life.
Well, I have never seen a Davis Cup match, which is a pity. But what is going on with all these injuries, and illness? Seems a little too many. Could be some people are saving themselves for the ATP Masters Series? Or is that too off base?
Although I haven’t seen a Davis Cup match, it is a good idea to keep it going, an excellent idea. It gives some players another venue, and in addition, it is a yearly event, unlike the Olympics.
Two hundred and ten weeks is even better as #1. Saw my number on the official RF website, but it could have been an older posting, or I might have misread it.
I kept wondering, sicne I wasn’t sure, just who had the Ferru nickname. So now I know it’s Ferrer. It’s funy, because it always reminds me of Nosferatu–and wasn’t he Dracula, or associated with stories spun about this character? Nosferatu-Ferru.
I hope Ferru gets better, too. He has to guard against injury because of his style of play, very demanding on the body. He is decent,has yet time to improve his game, or add something to it. When he played Roger at the shanghai Masters, he was talking to himself, and extending his hands, pulling up his shoulders, as if to say; what am I supposed to do now? after a return made on his great shot. He is genuine and I always appreciate that. That –being genuine and authentic– is a must have for a human being, and of course it is also good to see the players who possess that quality.
Roddick is in that camp, Ferru, Federer, Nadal, Davydenko–although he doesn’t display too much of himself–Nalbandian and many others.

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Jenny said

February 9, 2008 at 2:23 pm
Hi Eva,
I know you’re curious about the nickname to Ferrer. Your association with Nosferatu always makes me smile, but I can understand it. Actually, the name was given to him by Rafael and us fans picked up on it. Here is the explanation,

‘nicknamed Ferru (normatively should be written ferro, but the word is pronounced with a final “u” sound), meaning iron in Valencian/Catalan. In fact ferrer means literally smith (or blacksmith) in this romance language’.

As you know, most blacksmiths tend to have rather large, strong practical hands, the one’s I’ve encountered have anyway. The only similarity to this is strength and determination. His hands are strong, but more artistic, with rather longish fingers. Reason I urged patience, we feared he would damage himself for the season. He was out on the practice court the following day in an effort to compete in Davis Cup, but succummed to pain and had to go to the hospital. Sometimes you just have to be sensible and heed the warnings of Mother Nature, as Roger has learned to his cost over the years and of course his game is far more economical on the body. Roger practices with him in some tourneys and while not bosum buddies, more down to language I feel, infact I see them as having rather similar personas off court. David is quiet and bookish and I believe he takes reading matter with him as part of his kit, I’m not sure if Roger is such an avid reader.

BTW, I hear poor Frank Dancevic has a spinal cord injury, what ever has happened??

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Jenny said

February 9, 2008 at 4:01 pm
Just to update you on the Argentina vs GB Davis Cup tie. As expected, we lost. Playing dead rubbers on Sunday – I would suspect Nalby to sit that one out, he deserves to. It was a great doubles match today, the lovely Jamie Murray and Ross Hutchins did us proud, they almost got the second set. Again facing Nalbandian and the talented Acasuso isn’t something to be recommended on clay, despite the great efforts of the inexperienced Hutchins and Jamie’s less favoured surface.

The match was played in great spirit and the noisy Argentinian crowd were appreciative of all the players, no booing despite the near second set – I enjoyed it, a great watch. Andy M isn’t popular here at the moment, we were rather hoping he would go along to offer support to his brother and the team – anyway, someone rather more important chose to turn up and support – The Duchess of Gloucester.

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Jill said

February 9, 2008 at 6:05 pm
Jenny,

Stupidly missed the 1st GB Davis Cup singles match and so missed Nalby playing – drat! Remembered to watch the doubles and was mightily impressed by Jamie Murray. If only they had pulled off that second set. What a shame. I read in the Mail the other day that Jamie was pretty upset by Andy not playing and currently not talking to him, but you can never trust the press, can you? Have you heard anything? I do hope they haven’t fallen out.

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Gracie said

February 9, 2008 at 8:45 pm
Jenny, I read Dancevic was out with a: facet joint strain of his thoracic spine and will be out for about 8 weeks…

Thanks for your updates about the DC matches. But as Eva points out, there does seem to be a long ‘out with injury’ list. The season’s barely begun, and all that’s going on is Davis Cup. I guess I’m just getting antsy to see some MS matches. I’m starting to like Ivan Lendl’s suggestion about playing DC every two years instead of every year, though. It seems to take its toll on some players, and others who don’t play as regularly, might be more inclined. It feels like a lot to go through all year, to end up back on the courts defending the title just two months later. I think the winning team should get to revel in their victory for a while.

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Jenny said

February 10, 2008 at 2:38 pm
Jill,
You would have enjoyed the Nalby match, he wasn’t going to let that one slide, poor Jamie B was totally outclassed but Nalby didn’t get all his own way. Did you see the final 2 dead rubbers today? – what a little ripper was that Jamie Baker beating Calleri who is actually a better player – he’s everything right for GB, attitude, guts etc., I like this kid. Did you notice Jamie Murray’s smile managed to draw a wry grin from the rather dour Nalby? How can two brothers be so different eh?. I think Jamie’s pretty hacked off with younger brother, so was I.

Gracie,
Thanks for the update on Dancevic – obviously not nice, at least it’s treatable, but when spinal cord injury was mentioned, I was imagining all sorts of horrors if you know what I mean. I’m still sitting on the fence as far as DC scheduling is concerned.

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Jenny said

February 10, 2008 at 7:45 pm
I found this hilarious vid on Nalby/Santoro. What really got to me was the state of Nalbandian after this amazing point. I thought he looked about ready to lie down. Enjoy!

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Jenny said

February 11, 2008 at 5:36 pm
Dee,

Details of the Murray spat you referred to

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/tennis/7232016.stm

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Dee said

February 12, 2008 at 12:36 am
I never use this box. I was just checking the recent comments and accidentally landed here.
Jenny, I thought I included the link there. Any way I read that. I don’t think Bryan sisters would have any competition from those bros.

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Brooke said

February 12, 2008 at 3:45 am
Jenny, that is the best article I’ve ever read in my entire life. Key quote: “It kind of affects the way we feel about him.” Ha! Even his brother doesn’t like him!

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Jenny said

February 13, 2008 at 5:34 am
Well done Guillermo Coria! First win in 20 months, it’s a start – c’mon el Mago, keep going, grace and beauty on a clay court.

So sorry for Guga [Gustavo Kuerten] who lost today. A truly great player and human being.

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Jenny said

February 14, 2008 at 7:28 am
UPDATE:

Good news. David Ferrer is recovering well. Following prescribed pool swimming therapy to alleviate his inflammed leg tendon, he’s now back out on the practice courts and well on the way to compete in Rotterdam. Suerte Ferru!

Not so good news for British tennis fans. It appears Andy Murray has a genetic knee condition which can flare up from time to time. It seems hard training has aggravated it, hence his withdrawal from DC. I dread to think what heavy 5 set marathons against some of those running grinders on the clay will do. Anyway, he’s just beaten Wawrinka in Marseille and meets Mahut in the next round.

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Jenny said

February 19, 2008 at 8:16 pm
Good grief! Has Jose Acasuso finally awoken from his slumber, I wonder if he heard me ranting and raving, because he’s just beaten Carlos Moya.

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Dee said

February 21, 2008 at 11:20 pm
There you go!!! Andy just won! So How many us players in it???
Fish, Isner, Blake and now Roddick. Not bad!!

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Murph said

March 1, 2008 at 1:17 pm
Have you, TP, or anyone else seen today’s Dubai Men’s Draw? Are my screws loose, or does it look like Federer is playing Andy Murray in the first round? Yikes, if it’s true!!! Please console me.

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Claire said

March 2, 2008 at 11:41 am
Yea, the Dubai draw is posted! Federer and Murray tomorrow; what do you guys think?

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sceral said

March 2, 2008 at 5:16 pm
Have you noticed on the Dubai official website under Broadcasters that even Bhutan and Sri Lanka will air the tournament but not the good old US of A!!!!! Yet ESPN has Fishing and Poker tournaments daily. TP is right. We have to find/send our own people to tape matches and put them on line.

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Eva said

March 2, 2008 at 10:34 pm
I keep hoping, that through some miracle, I will se some play, Sometimes, once in a while, it happens that way. I keep checking, and there is no tennis on TSN or its alternate, and then I check again, only to see play in progres. That is frustrating, too.
We should get coverage, with all the eexcuse-of-a sport they put on the sport channels.
Maybe the ATP could help somehow? Anybody thought about contacting them? TP?
My son bought last year 10 matches to wattch, but it was on the computer, I think. I don’t have that capacity.

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Eva said

March 2, 2008 at 10:47 pm
Jenny, #9, I just saw your explanation of the Ferru nickname. Thanks very much for letting me know; and the occupation also does fit with Ferrer’s appearance. I just played with the Nosferatu word, because of the sound similarity at the end.
It’s nice when i hear from somone with information.
And it’s too bad about Damcevic. He is fairly new to the circuit. It’s easy to see how the injuries happen, with so many tournaments. He probably also has to qualify, so that when he gets in, he is more tired out. Hope he recovers!
About Andy Murray, in Roger’s website, the guestbook, a British lady had written about Andy, and with the following sentiment: “I hope Roger whips his Scottish ass!”

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Claire said

March 3, 2008 at 10:13 am
Why or Why is Federer losing?? Is his time really up? I am soo sad.:( I don’t even want to watch Dubai anymore! All we get is one match from Federer and wait for the next tournament? Maybe Federer won’t get his 14, 15 GS. Is this year over for him. Is the competition coming up just too much for him? Please tell me what you all think!

He did seem to be breathing a bit heavy today?

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Claire said

March 3, 2008 at 10:54 am
What about Federer’s comment after match:”Murray played a good match. Youngsters play good on the day. If they play good for the week, that’s the question”! I think Federer should take this time off to find a good coach!

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Claire said

March 3, 2008 at 10:59 am
Sorry,
That’s what Federer said after losing to Murray last year (above) What’s he going to say this year?

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nadalfan said

March 3, 2008 at 1:38 pm
federer lost

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sceral said

March 3, 2008 at 4:50 pm
Claire, I feel the same way you do. I don’t even want to know the rest of the results. Early this morning I discovered that there was a live link showing the matches on the computer and could not wait to come home from work and post my happy news! Now I don’t even care if there was TV coverage. I am in shock and disbelief. This is what I think is happening: Our dear Fed wants to win so badly that he is not taking his chances nor playing to his strengths. Instead, he is playing percentage tennis and safety. I wish he would go back to his own game.

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Jill said

March 4, 2008 at 3:22 pm
I really don’t understand why Nadal got a warning today and Djokovic didn’t. There seems to be no consistency.

Maybe I don’t notice the time lapses so much with Nadal as I do Djokovic because I prefer watching him. I need to get a stopwatch.

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Claire said

March 5, 2008 at 8:29 am
Sceral,

Yes, it is so sad I get up in the a.m. and still can’t beleive Federer is not playing! I pray he wins next tournament. I can’t stand him to be knocked out first match again! Now, I want someone other than Murray, Nadal, Djokovic to win so they don’t gettoo many points. I’m still trying to figure out if Federer will lose 300 pts. because of his loss?

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Jenny said

March 5, 2008 at 4:34 pm
Jill,
I noticed Rafael adding ball bouncing to his other little rituals. He acknowleged the warning with grace. Stop it Rafael, you don’t need to do this.

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Katie said

March 5, 2008 at 7:02 pm
Me too. It’s enough to make me scream! Love Nadal, but hate the OCD and the bouncing thing is the worst. Think there has to be more consistency in enforcing the rules.

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Jenny said

March 6, 2008 at 5:11 am
Aw Jill, we lost little David who played badly today, that wretched serve let him down, he just couldn’t get a first serve in. Head banging and stiff drink moments! Lo Siento David, positive in one way though, lst time ever in Dubai quarters and gains some ranking points so that’s good. Feli was great, fantastic serving, just look at the Lopez talent when he’s in the zone Jill, he’s even taken Roger to the wire in the past. I’m behind him and Rafael now.

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Claire said

March 6, 2008 at 1:20 pm
Yea, Roddick won, Go Roddick – beat Djokovic!
Looks like Federer will hang on to no. 1 for a while longer. Hope it all turns around for Federer in the next tournaments.

Grown men (other than Federer) also cry. Sad day, Bret Frave of Green Bay Packers retired today and he (Farve) was crying during his press conference! At some points he couldn’t even talk.

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Brooke said

March 6, 2008 at 2:13 pm
I’m hoping for Roddick to beat Djokovic too!

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Anonymous said

March 6, 2008 at 3:52 pm
Jenny,

Away for a few days and just crept on to someones laptop to check on things. Poor Ferrer, had big hopes for him in this tournament. Nadal was my next choice but I see he’s gone too. Wouldn’t be surprised if Roddick does it, he’s firing on all cylinders knowing Federer’s out!

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sceral said

March 6, 2008 at 4:31 pm
I am so glad Fed’s luck worked at least a little bit so he preserved the #1 rank! Now he must get back on track.
I wonder why did Rodick wait until today to announce Connor’s resignation if he knew since last week. Could it be that the parting was not too amicable?

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Jenny said

March 6, 2008 at 5:16 pm
Thanks Anon,

I’m delighted for Andy. His performance today was magnificant, if he continues to play like this, he deserves to lift that trophy.

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Brooke said

March 6, 2008 at 5:17 pm
Sceral, Unless Roddick’s lying, the two parted amicably. I have a feeling that he would insinuate that it was an unpleasant parting, if it was; like with Gilbert. Those two obviously had their differences.

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Claire said

March 7, 2008 at 9:22 am
YES, Roddick has taken the first set! Please Roddick do it! This tournament may make me go to such a low (Federer losing) and a such high(Roddick beating Djokovic and hopefully the tournament) This would be so great for Roddick, he needs this in his career

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Claire said

March 7, 2008 at 9:45 am
Roddick WON!:) He beat #2 and #3 in the world- what a high he must be on! Is he making a statement after parting ways with Connors? Yes, maybe the other players have figured out how to beat Djokovic! Maybe he’ll shut his mouth a bit!!! USA beats SRB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THanks Roddick

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aj said

March 7, 2008 at 10:08 am
Sceral, My guess is that he waited until after a big win so that it didn’t look as though he was dumping Connors on the back of a loss. He made it very clear that it was a ‘resignation’ not a ’sacking’ which may be a sign of his respect for Connors.

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aj said

March 7, 2008 at 10:10 am
P.S. on Roddick/Connors. I’m going to assume that the media will try to make it seem less than amicable otherwise there’s not really a good story there.

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Claire said

March 7, 2008 at 11:54 am
Sorry about the “USA beats SRB” It was totally out of line and hope you will accept my apology.

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Brooke said

March 7, 2008 at 4:12 pm
With all the fuss over Roddick, F-Lo, the relatively lackluster number one, and Djokovic’s claim to fame, we forgot to give credit to Llodra who has been doing well as of late. Congrats!

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Jenny said

March 7, 2008 at 4:29 pm
I gave credit to Llodra, Brooke. I like his serve/volley tennis.

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Brooke said

March 7, 2008 at 4:39 pm
Sorry must have missed it, Jenny.

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Jenny said

March 7, 2008 at 5:42 pm
My apologies to you Brooke, I couldn’t find it either! However, this is what I posted on the BBC site.

“What a great win for Llodra, great serve, lovely tennis, the days of court craft aren’t over just yet. Nothing against Karlovic who has a great serve and improving in other aspects of the game too.”

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Brooke said

March 9, 2008 at 5:28 am
I’m not the biggest Federer fan, but who was that idiot at the Roddick/F-Lo trophy ceremony? He was like, “And world number one Roger Federer losing in the first round. It was brilliant!”

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Claire said

March 10, 2008 at 8:14 am
Proves again, news is not presented correctly. In paper today, (Houston Chronicle) an article said:
1. Nadal would have taken over #1 spot had he won Dubai. I believe he would have come within 100 pts.)
2. Fails to mention Federer’s sickness (they say Federer comes into New York “weighted down by doubt”!) There may be doubt if Federer performs badly in Indian Wells and Miami but not yet considering the health issue the past months. Guess by not mentioning Federer’s sickness in his article (“Federer’s troubles add to tonight’s spectacle” article title) the event sounds more inticing. One of Federer’s biggest “trouble” is his health!

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Claire said

March 14, 2008 at 5:28 pm
Doesn’t look like Federer will play til Sunday? If so, what was the problem with him playing Sampras on Monday night? Don’t you think it was good for Federer to play?
I pray he wins and looks really good!

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Claire said

March 14, 2008 at 5:36 pm
Good picture of Nada and Federer (shirt off) on Pacific Life website if you haven’t already seen it!

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Jenny said

March 15, 2008 at 3:06 pm
Well folks. Rafael now playing and doing well.

Ferru and Djokovic through.
Berdych out to Wawrinka.

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Katie said

March 16, 2008 at 4:01 pm
Fox makes ESPN look like tennis gods. What lame ass coverage -if you can even call it coverage. I’m getting a PC so I can watch online, because I’M MAD AS HELL AND I’M NOT GOING TO TAKE IT ANYMORE!!!

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Claire said

March 16, 2008 at 6:54 pm
I paid for ATP Master Series TV and didn’t see one ball go over the net! I spent the whole time trying to get on! Is anyone else using ATPMaster series TV? If you did, what was the secret?
How did Federer look – really hot??
I can’t beleive Roddick is out!
Katie, did you at least see the match? I only get Fox coverage on days Federer is off!!

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bigfish said

March 16, 2008 at 7:08 pm
I have been watching the matches from the following webstream since yesterday.

http://pages.tvunetworks.com/channels/#

“10006 Star Sports” is covering quite a few matches. need to download the TVU player though.

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Katie said

March 16, 2008 at 8:17 pm
All I saw was most of the Murray match and most of the Kunetsova match. Then finit. Sorry you didn’t get anything from ATP Claire! If you go to the sign up page, there’s two lists – one called FAQS in the right box (under how much it costs) and a box on the left (can’t remember what it’s called). If you scroll down it, there’s tons of links for free plug-ins and such which may be what you need. Also contact them and tell them to help you out.
Bigfish, hows the quality on that stream? Can’t wait til I get my laptop PC so I can at least see something!
FSN has the most BORING coverage I’ve ever seen. I’ll bet even TP is pining away for PMac! A pox on the house of ESPN!!!!

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Jill said

March 17, 2008 at 1:55 pm
Jenny,

If I see Mark Petchey’s interview with Andy Murray one more time and have to listen to any more hyberbole about him, I may just lose my mind. Are they completely over the top or am I just imagining it? (Mind you, the interview could have been shortened by around 5 minutes if Andy had just left out all the “you knows”).

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Jenny said

March 17, 2008 at 3:22 pm
Jill,

Absolutely. They just can’t help themselves. I know they’re trying to promote him and all that, but it’s all too much. I switched channels until the interview was safely over. Much Rafael’s quick and to the point interview with Petch.

Ha Ha, loved your association with a ‘fit Haas’ I meant healthwise of course, but the other would apply. Did you see Fena last night, this time it was his foot, bless him.

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Jenny said

March 17, 2008 at 3:23 pm
Sorry, ‘Much preferred’

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Jill said

March 18, 2008 at 3:38 pm
Jenny,

Upset about Fena, can’t believe Ferrer is out and way to go Federer – but my real reason for posting you personally is due to Sky. The continuing saga. Not only do we have to contend with the whole Murray is the second coming routine, but they are totally changing what people say. Federer’s “I’ve created a monster” re his winning ratio has turned into “Djokovic is a monster on the court”!!!!!!

Give me strength.

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Claire said

March 18, 2008 at 7:42 pm
Where is everyone or should I say where is TP? I think he approves all our comments so no TP no communicate with each other?

Anyway, what about that FEDERER!!! I saw the match today – very quick – some 56 min.!! The Federer we all know and love is back (and well from his sickness).:)

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Claire said

March 18, 2008 at 7:58 pm
If you want to have more proof that Djokovic is in fact a jerk go th ATP site and watch “spot light on Federer”. UGGGGGGGGGGGGG. Djokovic is soooooo arrogant!!!! Federer is a little bit shakey (says Djokovic)!!! Djokovic failed to mention Federer was sick! I got the feeling when Djokovic said Federer wants to be no.1 at year end, Djokovic really thinks HE will be no. 1 at year end! I hope Federer meets up with Djokovic and shows him who no. 1 is (and his name ain’t Djokovic)
Isn’t Roger playing beautiful again and maybe “the guys” are beginning to think (once again) that they can’t beat Federer.
Go Federer

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Jenny said

March 19, 2008 at 6:28 am
So sorry for two of my losing boys, Fena and Ferru – big hug. Red line under this one Senors, go to Miami with strength, Vamos!!

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Jenny said

March 19, 2008 at 1:43 pm
Hi Jill,
Didn’t hear that one – these boys at sky are something else! Did you know they devoted a whole two hours replay session today to Murray’s overnight match, plus they showed the thing live. They’ve not once shown Nalby. Mr Lee is tricky for Ferru, always has been.

Hi Claire,
I did think Roger was playing beautifully, not that Nicolas gave him any competition which was strange, believe me Nicolas has more talent than he displayed in that match.

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Jill said

March 19, 2008 at 3:52 pm
Claire,

Yes, I noticed that about Djokovic’s comments on the ATP site about Roger too. Shame, I was coming round to him marginally.

Jenny,

Yes, the replayed Murray match – ridiculous. I thought just now they were going to switch from the fascinating Tsonga/Nadal 2nd set tiebreak so that we could see Murray warming up! I shouldn’t say this but I really hope Haas takes him out.

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Claire said

March 19, 2008 at 4:26 pm
YES, NADAL
I’M SO HAPPY FOR YOU.
ORDER IS RESTORED IN THE HOUSE
Next after beating Blake (sorry fellow americans) you need to let Djokovic know who’s no. 2!!!!
Then order will REALLY be restored, with final – Federer vs Nadal and of course Federer the vicor!

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Jenny said

March 19, 2008 at 5:02 pm
Vamos Rafael!

C’mon Tommy, now win the third set and the match – remember who you are!

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Jenny said

March 19, 2008 at 5:47 pm
Wowee!! Tommy’s done it!! This really isn’t against Murray, I’ve been behind Haas long before Murray burst on the scene, that glorious backhand did the damage and he out drop-shot Murray!

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Jill said

March 20, 2008 at 1:50 am
Haas, you beauty, now we brits can watch the rest of the tournament in peace. Try not to take out Federer as well, would you? LOL

I think the one handed backhand is the most beautiful shot. Could watch Haas, Gasquet and Federer doing them all day long.

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Sarah said

March 20, 2008 at 7:06 am
Readers Respond: No Climax In FSN’s Coverage By Carol Posner Thursday, March 20, 2008

I am so furious and I wish you would edit this letter and put it in your magazine. Today from 4 to 6 p.m. FSN televised the Rafael Nadal-Jo-Wilfried Tsonga match from Indian Wells and did us a “favor” and gave bonus coverage until 6:30 p.m. and went off the air with them having split sets!!!

Then from 10 p.m. to midnight they showed the Mardy Fish-Lleyton Hewitt match and then showed the final set of Nadal/Tsonga match while the score of it rolled around on the ticker.

They advertised the Maria Sharapova-Daniela Hantuchova match to be televised and not only didn’t they show it, but they never gave ANY of the days scores. Does anyone know or for that matter does anyone care that there are actually WOMEN at this tournament?

Why in the world won’t the people who handle the coverage of tennis try and do something — anything — for the fans?

I know the U.S. Open is the hottest ticket in town for two weeks, but tennis here in the States is a dying sport spectator wise and how can anyone expect that to change when the TV coverage is so poor? I sat for 2 and a half hours watching a great and exciting match only not to see the end and then have the score rolling around followed by the actual third set.

This is equally as bad as ESPN.

I wonder what would happen if they happened to end coverage in the 8th inning of a baseball game or just not show the 4th quarter of a basketball game?

Tennis is one of the few sports I really like to watch on TV that involves women. But there is a complete lack of respect for women’s coverage of tennis. Lindsay Davenport — an American — played today and if I didn’t put the site on I would never have known the score. They totally neglected every women’s match!

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Jill said

March 20, 2008 at 4:24 pm
Good work Wawrinka, you really should have won that first set. The whole match was much closer than the end scoreline suggested.

Jenny, my final vent (honestly) about Sky. I sat waiting to see highlights of the Federer and Djokovic matches in the review only to find we had Murray and Nadal who had already been shown the night before. Okay, maybe those matches were more exciting but we had already seen them. Don’t they get it?

Rant over, I give up.

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Jenny said

March 20, 2008 at 5:01 pm
Jill, you know I totally agree about Sky, I don’t even have the red button ‘cos I’m with cable and the Murdoch and Branson battle, I have complained. Would have loved to have seen Nalbandian, never even saw Davydenko. Whilst the Haas match was great and he looks good, I really wanted to move on. I was pleasantly surprised to see Ferru, JCF and Fena once, but rather than keep plugging the Murray repeats at every available opportunity, I’m sure they could have given us more variety with other non televised matches. They managed to put on the Murray night match at 2am! Whilst I may not warm to Murray, I’ve nothing against him personally, what they don’t get is we’re not all into this Murray hype. As you said before, let’s hope we get some peace now, I’m dreading Miami. End of my rant too. Thanks for allowing us TP!

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Claire said

March 25, 2008 at 7:12 am
Read a good article in “Times Online”, March 24
Some of it:
“Q Are you well, Roger
A I’m well, yeah, how are you?
Q I don’t have to run
A Well, I didn’t have to run much today, either!”

Sounds like Federer is a bit defensive! Does anyone know how to get the rest of this interview?

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Claire said

March 25, 2008 at 7:21 am
Actually,

Those question above were originally from the interview with Federer after losing to Fish in “Tennis X”

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Gracie said

March 25, 2008 at 2:33 pm
Claire, here is the whole interview. It reads like Federer made the remark about not having to run as a joke, meaning it was over pretty fast.

http://www.asapsports.com/show_interview.php?id=48452

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Brooke said

March 25, 2008 at 3:48 pm
Yeah I think Federer was just joking about the running think, like Gracie said.

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Brooke said

March 25, 2008 at 3:48 pm
Sorry, I meant thing

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Jenny said

March 25, 2008 at 9:20 pm
Jill,

this is for you LOL! Plus of course other visitors who may be interested.

http://www.atptennis.com/1/en/2008news/lopez_soap.asp

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Brooke said

March 27, 2008 at 2:22 pm
I’m not sure how true this is, but it’s interesting if it is:

http://www.novak-djokovic.com/eng/news.php/2008/03/26/roger-federer-novak-is-the-best

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Jill said

March 27, 2008 at 3:13 pm
Jenny,

Thanks, I thought for a horrible moment he was going to say he didn’t need much time in the make-up room because he’s so good looking. Bless him.

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Jenny said

March 27, 2008 at 4:53 pm
Jill, glad you enjoyed it. I hadn’t realised Feli was such a big guy after looking at the vid clip, he makes those other chaps look small.

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Brooke said

March 28, 2008 at 5:27 am
You could learn about a player by how they handle the enormous amounts of people hounding them as they leave the practice courts.

Federer takes about half an hour to prep himself. He changes his clothes, brushes his hair, and puts on designer sunglasses. He signs for some people while he’s still on court, but kinda just walks past the other “fans” when he decides he’s pretty enough to leave and face the cameras.

Djokovic walks off the court all sweaty and doesn’t seem to mind all the screaming fans. He smiles the entire time and signs and takes pictures when he can.

Roddick also walks off sweaty, but doesn’t put up with the crazy crowd. While the other players leave it to security to take care of the fans, Roddick takes matters into his own hands, yelling out, “I’ll stay here and sign all day, but the second someone pushes, I’m out.” Instant respect and calm from the crowd. Every other player (and of course fan) got pushed and shoved in the craziness that follows a player’s exit from the practice court, but Roddick left unscathed and every fan got an autograph.

Nadal signs for as many as he can which is hard because his OCD forces him to take about a minute to sign each autograph.

Tursunov, Querrey, Bob, and Mike always sign and take pictures and the twins usually give stuff to fans.

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Claire said

March 28, 2008 at 3:35 pm
Federer doesn’t sound like one of the nicer ones! I like Roddick’s attitude and take care of the situation first cuz you know the fans will listen to him!

What happened to Djokovic today???? Did someone see the match?
I did read the score right, didn’t I???

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Brooke said

March 28, 2008 at 3:50 pm
Claire, I saw Nole’s match: no where near his best tennis. And btw, I didn’t mean to insinuate that Federer wasn’t nice; I think he just doesn’t know how to deal with crowds, maybe?

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Faith said

March 28, 2008 at 3:51 pm
I quit watching the live score halfway through the last set, got home, and couldn’t believe my eyes! Is it terrible of me to be the teensiest bit glad Djokovic lost this one?

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Brooke said

March 28, 2008 at 3:55 pm
Congrats Tursunov!!!!!!!!!!! (And nice try, Sam)

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Gracie said

March 28, 2008 at 7:59 pm
I feel like my head will soon explode from the frustration of trying to find any coverage of these opening matches. Even the MS website isn’t showing one till Saturday. And here, the FSN is broadcast through our cable ’sports station’, and during IW they cut the broadcast off after their two-hour block, no matter what was going on in the match! Can you imagine these clowns getting away with covering a football game for a block of time too short to show the entire game – on purpose?!! I don’t think so, Heidi!

ERRG! It is worth noting that the Tennis Channel has just added a conciliatory tape-delay lineup of match coverage for Miami, in response to the scathing e-mail I sent them regarding their BS claim to ‘cover’ tennis, no doubt. Then as usual, one of our ‘Major’ networks will come in and deign to show the SF and F rounds…but just expect them to cut off the trophy presentation in order to move the schedule along. That way you won’t be disappointed. Errrg.

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Jenny said

March 29, 2008 at 1:21 pm
I can empathise with your frustration Gracie, we’re not getting anything until Sunday. I’ve had to live with the live score this last couple of days and the time difference, how boring is that!! It’s looking like a bit of a carnage right now, most peculiar, it’s like throwing down a pack of cards and taking your pick. Glad you got some result with your e-mail.

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Brooke said

March 29, 2008 at 1:31 pm
Roddick’s on serve in the third. I’ve never been more nervous in my life.

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Jill said

March 30, 2008 at 1:59 am
Jenny,

Miami rant number 1 and we haven’t had any coverage yet. I just know that today’s review will be entirely devoted to the Murray match, no Fed, no Ferrer etc.
Federer may have won but I want to know how he’s playing and what happened to David, whaaaaaaaaa……At least Gonzalez is still hanging in there with Federer. Go you two!!

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Jenny said

March 30, 2008 at 1:31 pm
Jill,

Absolutely whaaaaaa David, saw none of it. I know Thomas is good with the superior serve but….. I’m not sure he’s handling the pressure, he’s gone back into himself. I think we’re going to see Gonzo/Canas tonight, that should be a blast if you know what I mean. Go Roger, vamos Gonzo! Poor JCF I think maybe the next one, but Berdych could hit wide as the match goes on.

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Brooke said

March 30, 2008 at 7:34 pm
Olay, olay, olay!
Olaa! Guga!

As you can see, I was sitting with the Brazilians during the Guga match lol. I just wanted to congratulate him on his win! I don’t know if they played it on tv, but for anyone who didn’t see, the crowd booed Verdasco as he walked in. He and Lopez laughed about it though.

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Jill said

March 31, 2008 at 12:44 am
Oh no Jenny, Gonzalez gone too. 3 out of my 4 gone. And much as I’d love to I don’t have great hopes for Federer, he still looks far from well. My gut feelings are Berdych or Nadal here (they’ll probably both go out in the next round now!!).

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Jenny said

March 31, 2008 at 4:40 am
How lovely Brooke, you lucky thing. I thought Guga lost eventually, I was sorry about that, love the guy. I know Verdasco appears be a bit snooty and nose in the air jobbie. His family own a famous traditional restaurant in Madrid, has been in the family for generations, just a piece of info. You might like to visit Brooke! No reason to be snooty though, just because you come from an upper class background. Why were they booing him? I can almost hear him thinking, my GOD, why are these dreadful people booing me? lol! Must admit I have a liking for these two struts, I can see the funny side to their demenour, and I do love their tennis, which at the end of the day, it’s what it’s all about. Seriously, I still say, as do the pundits, Verdasco is a highly talented all court player, same with Lopez, great on the grass, if only they screwed their heads on.

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Jenny said

March 31, 2008 at 4:42 am
PS Brooke, choice: watching Mr Murray or these two?!!!

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Brooke said

March 31, 2008 at 11:16 am
Jenny, yeah I felt pretty lucky and wish that everyone could experience something like that!

Verdasco knew he was gonna get that kind of reaction; the Pope would have been booed had he played against Guga yesterday! The Miami crowd loves him, hence his decision to make his final hooray here. I did feel kind of bad for F-Lo/Verdasco though. While everyone was waiting for Verdasco to finally show up, a cheer of “Default! Default!” was started.

If I’m ever in Madrid, I’ll definitely try the restaurant!

I like them too and let me just add that F-Lo has the nicest body on tour lol. Wow.

I agree he’s talented, but that talent completely deserted him last night and F-Lo was not happy.

Haha were it a choice between watching Murray or the wall, I still wouldn’t pick Murray

Valeou (Hope I spelled that right) Guga!

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Brooke said

March 31, 2008 at 3:19 pm
Congrats to Roddick and Brooklyn Decker! I think they’re a little too young, but who am I to judge?

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Claire said

April 1, 2008 at 10:03 pm
I don’t think Roddick’s too young, Brooklyn is too young!

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Jenny said

April 2, 2008 at 11:57 am
Congrats from me too!! You’re supposed to be watching tennis Brooke, not Senor Lopez’s body!!LOL

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Kosovo is Serbia said

April 3, 2008 at 6:47 pm
Novak Đoković has visited the Serbian province of Kosovo.

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Jenny said

April 4, 2008 at 3:37 am
Belated Birthday Wishes to Ferru 2nd April.

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Brooke said

April 5, 2008 at 1:27 pm
Does anyone else think Daydenko looks like a giant furby?

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Brooke said

April 5, 2008 at 1:28 pm
I’m sorry, I obviously meant Davydenko.

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Brooke said

April 5, 2008 at 3:59 pm
Just saw your comment, Jenny. Lol, I wasn’t the only one sweating F-Lo, I assure you

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Katie said

April 5, 2008 at 5:02 pm
What’s a furby? I’m having a hard time imagining Davy as a giant anything, LOL!

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Claire said

April 6, 2008 at 7:47 am
I looked up what a “furby” is and from the picture, yes Davydenko kinda looks like a furby. I’m rooting for him today,I like Nadal but don’t want him to get any closer in points to Federer than possilbe. Plus I think this win would mean TONS to Davydenko! Hope he plays like he did against Roddick!
GO DAVYDENKO!

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Brooke said

April 6, 2008 at 1:56 pm
Lol Katie, it’s a toy that was really popular in the 90’s.

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Adrian said

April 6, 2008 at 2:30 pm
A question completely unrelated to tennis:

Are there any Japanese friends who visit tennisplanet? I know Chieko is usually around but I haven’t seen her post recently…

I am asking because I’ll be in Tokyo for 6 weeks this summer and I’d like to know if someone can recommend a decent-but-inexpensive place to stay…

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Claire said

April 9, 2008 at 4:57 am
Is Djokovic not playing Estoril to better prepare for the French Open?? I think I heard that mentioned somewhere. But why would he not play when he has so many points to defend and he says he wants to be no.1. Is winning the French Open so much more important to him?

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Jenny said

April 11, 2008 at 4:09 pm
Davis Cup: Vamos! Rafa and David 2-0 up against Germany, well done.

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Claire said

April 12, 2008 at 8:25 am
Isn’t Federer’s draw pretty easy?? Seems like he should win?

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Jenny said

April 12, 2008 at 1:56 pm
I’m on a vent and rant. I’ve been following Spain and Argentina via the live score. Rafa and Ferru were superb putting Spain
2-0 yesterday over Germany.. Doubles today should have been a walk in the park, given that poor Philipp Kohlschreiber, a great player, was run into the ground in a 3 hr match with Ferru, he had on court massage. Oh no, not such an easy doubles match, what a meal Lopez/Verdasco made of it, double faults, u/e’s galore. These two divas are no rookies, big guys, big lefy serves, shotmakers, a talented pair. And it’s not as if they’re clay court specialists. This tortuous marathon went on for almost 5 hours before they eventually won! During that time I had done the chores, made lunch, a quick dog walk and it was still going on when I got back. By this time they were 10-10 in the 5th set champs tie break, I bet Rafa and Ferru were screaming in desperation and disbelief. If Kohlschreiber chooses not to play the dead rubber after being on the court for over 8 hours, I wouldn’t blame him. If he does play he faces Rafa who dealt with Kiefer. Time for retreat Philipp. He and his partner played brilliantly, so well done to the German team without Haas.

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Claire said

April 14, 2008 at 6:27 pm
Have any of you heard of a 15 year old American player named Ryan Harrison?? Well, he will play the winner of the Blake/Nishikori match!!! Imagine Blake playing a 15 year old in a tournament!
Per the Houston Chronicle “…it appears he would become the only the 10th player of the Open Era to win an ATP tour match before his 16th birthday. The last one? Rafael Nadal in 2002.”

My husband and children saw Harrison play on a side court Sunday. They said he is awesome!

Today, Harrison beat Cuevas. The Chronicle said of Cuevas, “the 22 year old from Uruguay is a clay-court specialist who, earlier this season, reached the semifinals of the ATP tournament in Vina de Mar, Chile.”

WOW!!!!
“Harrison is from Shreveport, Louisiana, and trains at Newcomb’s tennis ranch in New Braunfels, Texas. Harrison is the 7th ranked junior in the world, but he has already turned professional”
My sons went to Newcomb’s camp last summer, awesome place!
Tomorrow we see Haas, then Blake playing doubles!

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Claire said

April 15, 2008 at 8:53 am
Federer is down a set!! I can’t watch (the score board – no TV coverage). I’m going outside to water my flowers and when I come back I hope it looks better.

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Claire said

April 21, 2008 at 1:39 pm
Watched some of Tipsarevic -Mathieu match. Tip…c broke Mathieu on a cheap pt. (the old hit the net bounce to other side)!

What’s the deal with these serb’s and their breathing problems? Wasn’t that tape thing on Tip…c’s nose to help with his breathing? That guy gives me the creeps!

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Jill said

April 22, 2008 at 6:47 am
Oh hell, it’s only Tuesday and I am soooooo sick of hearing about Andy Murray already.
Sky Sports is driving me nuts with everyone getting so breathless about everything he does. They even had the cheek to wish Djokovic good luck unless he comes up against Murray. Embarrassing!!!!!!!

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Jill said

April 22, 2008 at 8:08 am
I shoudn’t say this being British and I never thought I’d be saying it, not being the greatest fan of Djokovic, but I really hope he blows Murray off the court in the next round.

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Jenny said

April 22, 2008 at 3:09 pm
Hi Jill,

Check your mail box, something rather nicer to look at given the saturated coverage. I can’t believe how many replays of the Feli match I’ve seen, actually I switch off! I have complained to Sky. Trouble is, it isn’t doing Murray any favours to us serious British tennis fans because most people I’ve spoken to just want him knocked out so we can see replays of other matches.

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Brooke said

April 29, 2008 at 12:30 pm
Happy birthday to the sweetest/nicest/kindest tennis playing duo to pick up a pair of matching rackets: Bob and Mike Bryan! The big 3-0! Make it a good one!

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Brooke said

April 30, 2008 at 2:43 am
Oops I forgot that Agassi was also born on the 29th. Happy birthday to him too!

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Brooke said

May 6, 2008 at 3:07 pm
Congrats to Roddick on not falling to pieces on clay!

Better luck next time to Tursunov and Fish!

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Jenny said

May 11, 2008 at 3:18 pm
Very funny TP, I’m now a pink square box with red teeth and green hair!! LOL Can I pleez be a tiger or a cat???

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tennisplanet said

May 11, 2008 at 3:39 pm
Jenny,

It’s randomly generated by the programe. Will see if can do anything.

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Jenny said

May 11, 2008 at 3:49 pm
Ha..ha.. thanks TP. I’ve realised it’s grass growing out of my head!! I like the pretty green/blue cat though!

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Vonnie said

May 18, 2008 at 10:01 pm
Anyone here refer to Nadal as “the Ogre”? Read it in a news article:
“In France, Rafael Nadal is known as ‘The Ogre’. And Andy Roddick has observed that Nadal “just goes out there and punishes people”. Nadal crushes opponents, forehand by forehand by topspin forehand.”
hehe

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Brooke said

May 22, 2008 at 2:20 am
Congrats Robby Ginepri!

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Brooke said

May 23, 2008 at 1:36 pm
TP, I just though you may want to know that George Clooney is considering making a movie called “Goats.” It may be something worthy of a trip out of your basement.

Congrats to the Russian team!

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Jill said

July 17, 2008 at 3:00 pm
Not so much a vent as an enormous guffaw and didn’t know where to post this.

Trotted off to get current UK tennis mag ‘Ace” today. They have a small section entitled “Top 5″ and this month were doing torso’s. The list seemed fine :- 1. Roger Federer, 2. Rafael Nadal, 3. Marat Safin, 4. Feliciano Lopez. So far, so good (okay maybe some would move them around but no problem with the content) then……..( andI thought of you specifically here Brooke)

No 5 – ANDY MURRAY!!!! I know it’s a British publication but pleeeeeeeeeeeease, that’s just ridiculous.

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Jenny said

July 17, 2008 at 3:13 pm
Ha..Ha.. You’re joking, Jill – No 5!!! – for goodness sake, the editor must be a man!

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Brooke said

July 17, 2008 at 4:26 pm
Jill,

Aw, the poor editors of “Ace Magazine”! I had no idea they were retarded.

Sorry! That was incredibly rude of me. It’s just that I have never been so appalled in my entire life! Does he pay these people off?! Wow! And Federer’s number one? Yes, he has a pretty good body, but there are so many more who are better than him.

Who would everyone put in their top five for best torsos?
Mine:
1. F-Lo
2. Nadal
3. Safin
4. Gonzalez
5. Haas

Hurts to be unable to add Roddick to the list, but I’m being truthful.

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Jenny said

July 17, 2008 at 4:53 pm
Mine are, in no order:

Feli, Federer, Haas, Gonzalez, Verdasco.

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Deep South Girl said

August 25, 2008 at 11:49 am
Many thanks, TP, for giving my tile back to me.

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Brooke said

September 28, 2008 at 9:09 am
Congrats on number 26, Roddick! And congrats on not being a douche and donating it to charity!

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Sergeant said

October 21, 2008 at 1:52 pm
Do you want to see a 50 year old video game about tennis?

Click here

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Jenny said

October 30, 2008 at 4:58 pm
I watched the Verdasco/Murray match today. Fernando Verdasco was outplaying Murray in the second set and still managed to gift it to him on a plate, I was pulling my hair out here when he missed that smash. Whatever’s wrong with that boy, I’ve seen this time and time again, he’s got the talent which he manages very successfully to flush down the toilet without any help from his opponent. Sorry this is definately in the head, simply put, he’s a headcase. Only Verdasco who should have won a previous match at another tourney in four, loses the 4th and has to go to five bagelling his opponent, how crazy is that.

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marcello mattei said

October 31, 2008 at 1:57 pm
sono il prof. marcello mattei,studioso di anatomia comparata.non posso accettare che rino tommasi si affianchi ad un giornalista che ripetutamente ha dato dell’animale da combattimento al giocatore tsonga ironizzando con tinte forti sul suo modo di giocare??? match del 31/10/2008 contro roddick.

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Claire said

October 31, 2008 at 5:36 pm
Yea Tsonga!!!!!!!!!!!!! I think Roddick really thought he had it “sewn” up after the 1st set – such a cokey guy! Where was Brooklyn???
It will be so hard to decide who to cheer for tomorrow – Tsonga or my fellow American James Blake!
My heart sank when I heard Blake advanced; sorry to say but was happy that Federer had a walkover! I hope he’s o.k and will be ready for the Masters Cup. Tennis is so exciting – someone other than the top 4 are going to win Paris!!!

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Deep South Girl said

October 31, 2008 at 9:37 pm
Hey Sergeant (#38) That 50 y.o. video was pretty good, actually.
I’m glad that you showed it to us.

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TheHumbleOne said

October 31, 2008 at 11:04 pm
Tsonga! What a refreshing player to watch, with a nice exhuberant, fun-loving style. Not afraid to come in to the net. Good sportsmanship. He’s my pick, but I hate that it might have to be at Blake’s expense. Wish I was in Paris right now…

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Sergeant said

November 4, 2008 at 10:12 pm
Hi Deep South Girl. I’m glad you liked the video.

I was just stopping by to congratulate the United States for their decision on this historical 4th of November of 2008.

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Dalia said

January 30, 2009 at 5:00 pm
Woohooii talk about another epic match!!! Verdasco and Nadal really loved it… 5hrs and 14min didn’t go in vain
Vamos rafaaaa

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Josh said

February 3, 2009 at 8:08 pm
Hey guys, I was just wondering on what your thoughts were about Federer vs. Nadal in the Australian open. I myself am a diehard Roger fan, and believe he is an extremely well balanced player. However, when it comes to Nadal, he just cannot keep up physically! As seen with most games between them, they go on for a long time, and in the end Nadal wins with his stamina and unfalliable strength. Federer is almost perfect against all other oponents (open to other suggestions). I think Federer can beat Nadal, and resume being the number one, as well as regaining his confidence, if he hires a coach again. It has been 2 years without a coach, and now he needs one to give him another perspective on how to beat Nadal. Thoughts??
Thanks

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Jenny said

February 7, 2009 at 6:03 pm
LOL I think I must be running a tad slow. After feverishly trying to negotiate around the new flashy ATP site, and you know I love to keep tabs on what they’re up to…I digress, actually I was looking for the 2009 race points, only to discover after going down many a blind ally, that they are no more! Great, just the ranking points to cope with… I take my hat off to you ATP, about time that nonsense was simplified.

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joao said

February 26, 2009 at 9:28 am
For all the “Federer Cry Baby” talk, this recent months, does anyone remember the Sampras – Courier classic 5 setter from the AO, when the Sampras Man starte crying, mid-game, while serving? Does anyone have the youtube clip of that?

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Jenny said

March 14, 2009 at 5:15 pm
I see on channelsurfing.net currently, Fer V is giving those balls a mighty whack against Bellucci.

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M said

March 14, 2009 at 6:48 pm
Mighty mighty whacks, Jenny. It looked like he was getting the rust out for the first set, then he just ran away with the match. In about an hour and a half.

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Ch said

March 14, 2009 at 7:57 pm
Hey Joao – I hope this works for you:

http://www.australianopentv.com/page/classicmoments/0,,12594~1512188,00.html

It is the video with Sampras and Courier you were talking about. If it doesn’t work, go to australianopen.com, Video –> Archive –> 1995 Men’s Quarter Final.

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M said

March 15, 2009 at 10:22 pm
*quietly* The Bryans bageled Roger and Yves in doubles in the second set.

Richard and Stan have moved on; so have Rafa and Marc.

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M said

March 25, 2009 at 7:37 pm
Roger, you are distracted and your back is quite possibly not all the way healed. Please get a hypnotist.

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Ch said

April 3, 2009 at 1:07 am
Hehe I love the picture of the vent at the top of this page.

I’m venting about Serena Williams. Geez, she can play so well when she’s at her best, she can dominate everybody else and the only real competition I see (mentally and physically) comes from her sister. But why do I get exasperated with her? Her attitude. Look through her press conferences, you will see they are all about her. There are very few exceptions to this – she always feels SHE is the reason for her losses, or her near-losses, or her not-so-tidy matches where she wins anyway. Sometimes there is not a word from her about the good play of her opponent. I would support her much more if she would just act with the grace and give credit to her opponent (if they deserve it) like Venus does.

Guh.

It’s always going to be a problem though, but it’s part of her personality, because she will focus on herself when she loses, and on herself when she wins. If she wasn’t so obsessed with being good (and not losing), she wouldn’t be the strong player that she is.

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Jenny said

May 3, 2009 at 3:58 pm
You’ve missed out Estoril, TP – it comes before Madrid, and starts on Monday 4th May. Federer isn’t defending his champ points from last year. Nalby is due to play which is a surprise given his hip condition.

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Dalia said

May 16, 2009 at 2:52 pm
woooooohoooo indeed Vamos RAAFAAA!!
Djoko played really gr8 today and Nadal Sucked at the 1st set( lets just say i finally got how Fed fans felt at the FO’s 2008 final!!!)
but he pulled it out in the end..good win..
and good job Nole rlly…
FED vs. RAFA…long time no see :D
Vamos RAFAAAAA

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Ch said

May 16, 2009 at 6:07 pm
^VAMOS ROGER!

I don’t know where else to post this, lol, I just discovered both Andy Roddick and his wife have twitters. And they post back and forth. A lot. Hahahah. They are arguing about whether or not she can cook.

I’m not sure whether this is funny or kind of sad.. more funny

Reply
Gracie said

June 5, 2009 at 1:24 pm
Here we are at yet another event that’s been hyped by 3 networks here in the states. And with a room full of big tennis brains there at NBC, how is it possible that after vying for the rights to cover the Roland Garros men’s semis and finals they can’t seem to find a way to bring them to us LIVE???!!! LIVE tennis, guys! That’s what any real sports fan wants to see. LIVE Coverage. It’s not rocket science… So, WTF is wrong with these people!!!!?

If these geniuses can’t figure out a way to bring it to us in the States, then let the Tennis Channel have the damn feed! Because I’m sure I’m only one of about a million fans who went online to watch these matches LIVE, unwilling to wait. So NBC can keep its useless tape-delay, and tell their beloved sponsors that until they start to pressure the nerwork to actually draw tennis’ fan base off their computers and back over to the TV feed, they’ve got a better chance of seeing god than of having me buy any of their lame products. These are the SEMI-FINALS of a Grand Slam. Why can’t these morons give the sport and its fans the respect of providing actual match coveage, or let someone else do the job. Jeeez! Idiots!

And if these clowns even think about running the finals, but cutting off the trophy ceremonies in favor or some lame kiddie shows or the opening remarks about track and freakin’ field, I hope an angry fan base here crashes NBC’s server with hate mail for a freakin’ week! Anyone want in on this, here’s one link: tennisonnbc@nbcsports.com

I hope those NBC hacks get online and read the blogs…
Are you feelin’ the hate yet, boys ?
You should. You deserve it.

Reply
Gerard said

July 7, 2009 at 12:39 am
Who of these is the greatest of the Wimbledon once only champions?

We know Sampras collected 7 Wimbledon titles, Federer 6, Borg 5 and Laver 4. Between these 4 players they won an incredible 22 Wimbledon titles.

Since the open era began in 1968, Laver won 2 of his 4 titles before the split in 1963, there have been 42 titles on offer. So deducting the 20 titles that Sampras, Federer, Borg and Laver collected between them, there have only been 9 single titles won by past champions. Other multiple winners are; 3 titles – John McEnroe & Boris Becker, 2 titles – *John Newcombe, Jimmy Connors & Stefan Edberg.

* John Newcombe also won a 3rd Wimbledon title during the split in tennis between amateurs and pro’s. So, I am trying to keep this discussion just to the Open era.

The 9 one-off Wimbledon champions are; Stan Smith, Jan Kodes, Arthur Ashe, Pat Cash, Michael Stich, Andre Agassi, Goran Ivanisevic, Lleyton Hewitt and Raphael Nadal.

Some details about each of these are as follows:

Jan Kodes won 1 x Wimbledon, 2 x French, 2 x runner-up US Open.
Stan Smith won 1 x Wimbledon, 1 x US open, I x runner-up at Wimbledon.
Arthur Ashe won 1 x Wimbledon, 1 x Us Open, 1 x Australian Open, 1 x runner-up at both the US & Australian Opens.
Pat Cash won 1 x Wimbledon, 2 x runner-up at Australian Open.
Michael Stich won 1 x Wimbledon, 1 x runner-up at both the US & French Opens.
Andre Agassi won 1 x Wimbledon, 1 x French, 2 x US Opens & 4 x Australian Opens as well as runner-up at; 1 x Wimbledon, 2 x French, 4 x US Open.
Goran Ivanisevic won 1 x Wimbledon, 3 x runner-up at Wimbledon.
Lleyton Hewitt won 1 x Wimbledon, 1 x US Open, 1 x runner-up at both the US and Australian Opens.
Raphael Nadal won 1 x Wimbledon, 4 x French, 1 x Australian, 2 x runner-up at Wimbledon.

So dissolving these players stats into (Titles won / Number of finals played in/ number of Grand Slams entered / % of matches won in Grand Slams) – the years he played, highest ranking, number of singles titles & number of doubles titles, – career % in all matches. It looks like this.

Jan Kodes (3/ 5/ ?/ ?/) 1970 – 1973, 5, 8, 17, ?
Stan smith (2/ 3/ ?/ ?) 1969 – 1981, 1, 36, 54, – 70.985%
Arthur Ashe (3/ 5/ 30/ 79.1%) 1968 – 1979, 2, 33, 18, – 75.88%.
Pat Cash (1/ 3/ 34/ 67.3%) 1981 – 1997, 4, 7, 12, 61.9%.
Michael Stich (1/ 3/ 32/ 72.3%) 1989 – 1997, 2, 18, 10, 68.6%.
Andre Agassi (8/ 15/ 61/ 80.866) 1986 – 2006, 1, 68, 1, 76.06%.
Goran Ivanisevic (1/ 4/ 51/ 73.3%) 1988 – 2004), 2, 22, 9, 64.3%.
Lleyton Hewitt (2/ 4/ 41/ 75%) 1997 – 2009, 1, 27, 2, 74.7%.
Raphael Nadal (6/ 8/ 21/ 85.7%) 2003 – 2009, 1, 36, 5, 82.2%.

What can I take from this? Obviously Agassi and Nadal are the greater of these former Wimbledon champions, no surprises there. They also have won more 6 Grand Slams each. Their Grand Slam winning percentages are in the 80’s, again this separates them from the others. If you did this for any of the 4 Grand Slams the cream rises to the top and the cut-off point for greatness is 6 or more Grand Slams.

An exception for the above Wimbledon only statistics are those greats who never won a Wimbledon title, so I believe with a minimum of 6 Grand Slams being the cut-off point for greatness, only 3 players can join this list of greats in tennis but who never won a Wimbledon title and they have to be Rosewell, Willander and Lendl.

So for Nadal & Agassi for example from the above statistics which is the telling statistic? It is too early in Nadal’s case to be conclusive and if he can recover to full health and play the same level he should win many more Grand Slams. I think though the measure that will be used is who they played in the finals whether they won or lost. To me that is the single most important determinant in trying to separate the greats, with all other statistics also being considered.

In my eyes possibly the greatest list of opponents any one player had to play against is either Jimmy Connors or Raphael Nadal. Jimmy won 8 Great Slams, which is automatic inclusion into the list of greats, again no surprises there and with Federer being Nadal’s opponent in 7 of his 8 finals played for the 6 titles he has won so far, one has to definitely elevate him into this list of greats.

Let’s look at the opponents Connors played against in winning his 8 titles, so in no particular order the list follows. Besides the opponents name is the number of Grand Slam titles his opponents collected during their respective career.

K. Rosewell (8)
K. Rosewell (8)
P. Dent (0)
B. Borg (11)
B. Borg (11)
I. Lendl (8)
I. Lendl (8)
J. McEnroe (7) (Av. No of Grand Slams per opponent is just fractionally under 7)

That is a mighty list of opponents he defeated. Only Phil Dent was a blow-in comparatively.

Let’s now also look at the 7 opponents who defeated Jimmy in a Grand Slam final. This list includes;
A. Ashe (3)
B. Borg (11)
B. Borg (11)
J. McEnroe (7)
M. Orantes (1)
G. Vilas (4)
J. Newcombe (7*) 2 won in the years of the split.

This list below is one of the main reasons Sampras’s name should never be mentioned as a candidate for GOAT status, when you look at his opponents in his 14 victories and his losses in the final … let’s do this and have a look;
(wins) (losses)

J. Courier (4) S. Edberg (6)
G. Ivanisevic (1) M. Safin (2)
B. Becker (6) L. Hewitt (2)
C. Pioline (0) A. Agassi (8)
G. Ivanisevic (1)
A. Agassi (8)
P. Rafter (2)
A. Agassi (8)
C. Pioline (0)
A. Agassi (8)
T. Martin (0)
C. Moya (1)
M. Chang (1)
A. Agassi (8) (Av. No of Grand Slams per opponent is just fractionally under 2.5)

So if you were to look past that wonderful rivalry he had with Agassi, his opponents for the other 10 Slams that he won were pedestrian compared to the players whom Connors had to play against in his finals. The question is how many titles would Connors have won if he played in Sampras’s era that didn’t have the same strength of opposition as he did from beginning (Newcombe, Rosewell & Borg) to the end with (Lendl & McEnroe). This to me is the clearest perspective to gauge in this comparison of Sampras’s fortuitous and leaner wins than what Connors had to fight for, the other equally valid perspective is that Sampras was very lucky to play in the era where he didn’t have the same calibre of opponents playing week-in week-out as Connors had to endure during his career. Sampras’s total number of Slams won therefore is such an inflated total due to the luck of the era he played in as the above reveals and supports, and as many other tennis articles and experts have also agreed with over the years when looking at these facts. For Sampras to enter the years he did was not his fault I know but to come after Lendl, Becker and Wilander had basically all but retired and were definitely at the end of their careers and then he himself retired before Federer took a grip on the rankings was a lucky era for Sampras to gather his spoils.

Exit Sampras from the GOAT debate once and for all please, as well as his lean pickings and showings at the French Open.

In the Wimbledon box watching Federer make his huge piece of tennis history in securing his 15th Grand Slam title and sitting alongside Sampras (as Federer recognises and knows) were the real holders of that Goat tag that he now must without question also be admitted to and rightfully join. He is to be thoroughly and heartily congratulated in the manner in which he has played the game and how he conducts himself off the court and his amazing deeds extolled. I take my hat of to him in every way and he has proven beyond any doubt that he belongs alongside Borg and Laver as a GOAT certainty. My own personal opinion is still rock solid behind Borg as the real holder of that title, but I also concede and admit that Federer’s claim and that of his supporters is a mighty strong one and even the few Federer detractors would have trouble arguing against his right to be considered a GOAT. The only argument against Federer being out on that GOAT limb all by himself without his roommates in Borg and Laver is that he is clearly not the best in his own generation with Nadal having the answer to Federer’s majesty and finesse. This fact alone eliminates his sole proprietary of that title. The other fact that is to be considered as is the case for Sampras above is the lower calibre (other than Nadal) that he had to face in lifting the trophies in the 13 other finals he contested that didn’t have Nadal facing him from the other end of the court. His losing edge in Slam finals to Nadal being 2-5 is a weight he also needs to spend time trying to correct over the next few years. So the other 13 Opponents he defeated in accumulating his 15 titles being:

M. Philippoussis (0)
A. Roddick (1)
A. Roddick (1)
Soderling (0)
L. Hewitt (2)
A. Agassi (8)
A. Roddick (1)
N. Djokovic (1)
A. Murray (0)
A. Roddick (1)
M. Safin (2)
M. Baghdatis (0)
F. Gonzales (0)
R. Nadal (6)
R. Nadal (6) (Av. No of Grand Slams per opponent is just fractionally under 2)

So welcome Federer as a well deserved member of the rare GOAT tag, I applaud you and know that your fellow GOATEES in Borg and Laver welcome you and acknowledge your right to be there alongside them as they were alongside you at Wimbledon this year and as special guests to watch you win this historic 15th Grand Slam title and your 6th Wimbledon crown. You are an amazing player without a doubt. The next few years with a fit Nadal back at the top of his game will be the litmus test as to whether you will earn the right to have sole guardianship of the keys to the GOAT room and once and for all displace Borg and Laver to the mezzanine rooms.

What a final, hopefully like Ivanisevic, Andy Roddick will one day hold the Wimbledon trophy aloft after his stellar performance and magnanimous defeat to Federer in Sunday’s final. He deserves it like Ivanisevic did, so come on Andy in 2010. His post match interview with Sue Barker hinted that his resolve to do so still burns deep and that is a great sign. He will reflect that his lost opportunity to win the 2nd set being up 6-2 in the tiebreaker was where he lost the final and was robbed of a deserved 2nd Grand Slam and his 1st Wimbledon title. His game is so much better these days, vastly improved and he and his coach (Stefanki) deserves a lot of credit for the mould they have re-cast his game in.

All the best too for the imminent birth of Mirca and Roger’s new baby which must be in the next week or two.

Cheers
Gerard

Reply
Tennis Freak said

July 22, 2009 at 9:48 am
TP and all the Posters,
I am looking for somebody to collaborate with me for a piece on the Logical Flaw of the Fed’s 7-13 H2H with Rafa. I have written about a page and half. I’d like a peer review plus logical and stat input on the piece. Raise your hand, including TP, if you are interested. Then, I will post the draft here, and after your input, you can re-post the piece here (you will be acknowledged as co-author) before I submit.
Thanks,
TF

Reply
Tennis Freak said

July 30, 2009 at 10:17 pm
TP and family (including your basement creatures),
I will be gone for some time.
Don’t be wondering about me. I will be working on an important project 24/7 with 100% concentration. I will report back to you guys and share with you the joy of completion.
Once I am done with my work, I’ll be back with some nice work on tennis, I promise.
If I get a chance, I will drop by to say hello to you all.

Wishing the well-being of all TP members. Be good and be nice to TP, and you TP to your freaks and basement creatures.

Later,
TF

Reply
- Dee said
  
  July 31, 2009 at 2:43 am
  Take care and have fun at work
  
  Reply

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