It's been painful to go the entire week without being able to see one U.S. Open match. The only footage I have been able to watch so far was a few minutes of the grueling match between No. 3 Novak Djokovic (Serbia) and Radek Stepanek (CZE). From what I've seen, heard and read, what a match! Djokovic managed to win the fifth set tie break, leaving the score 7-6, 6-7, 7-5, 5-7, 6-7. Other wins on Friday during the 2nd round included Spain's Rafael Nadal who experienced some pains during the 1st round, Tommy Robredo, David Ferrer and Carlos Moya; Argentina's Juan Ignacio Chela and David Nalbandian (4); and USA's Robbie Ginepri. It was sad to see No. 5 Lleyton Hewitt (Australia) go after losing to Agustin Calleri.
Roger Federer plays today against John Isner. Tommy Haas also plays as well as James Blake. Andy Roddick already won today against Thomas Johansson. Many fans were sad to see U.S. Open winner Maria Sharapova defeated by Poland's Agnieszka Radwanska (30).
More to come everyday on the U.S. Open
Sarah
Source: USOpen.org.
Other blogs to check out:
http://www.tennis-x.com/xblog/2007-09-01/290.php
http://www.tennis-x.com/xblog/2007-08-31/288.php
Saturday, September 1, 2007
Rogers Masters
Roger Federer certainly wasn't the master at the Rogers Masters Cup in Montreal. Yes, I know this was weeks ago but this is the first time I've been able to write. I watched the match between Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic and I was pretty amazed at the Serbian. This is the first time since the 90s that one man has beat the top three seeds in one tournament. Djokovic is player very well. Of course Federer went on to win the next tournament and is looking good again for the U.S. Open.
Sarah
Sarah
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Welcome to The Advantage
Thank you so much for stopping by The Advantage. My name is Sarah and I'm a pretty big tennis fan. I'm also a reporter so I decided to combine my love for writing and tennis together. The first 10 blogs or so are ones that I have already written and posted in other places. Most of them are around the time of the French Open, Wimbledon and more recently the Rogers Cup. After the last Rogers Cup blog they will all be new. I'm very excited to write about the U.S. Open. While I plan to give my opinion on who I think has the advantage, I will also give detailed information from articles, blogs, quotes and other sources to update you on the latest matches. Please read and comment and come back.
Sincerely,
Sarah
Sincerely,
Sarah
Sunday, August 12, 2007
One for the Books...Djokovic Beats Federer
Well I absolutely do not know what to say. I knew deep down that I shouldn't have missed today's Rogers Cup final. I had a feeling something unsettling was going to happen.
Novak Djokovic beat Roger Federer, 7-6, 2-6, 7-6, to claim the victory.
Djokovic is quickly becoming the one to beat and honestly it's freaking me out.
I personally like the 20-year-old Serbian but my heart belongs to Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Andy Roddick. Djokovic beat all three of them in this tournament. This is the first time anyone has beaten the top three since 1994. I knew that Djokovic was gaining strength and confidence but I didn't think he was gaining it this fast. I'm worried for Federer and Nadal.
But I've also learned that you don't give up. As I said last night, it won't take Federer or Nadal long to push this loss aside and move on.
But…the U.S. Open is only a few weeks away and things are looking good for Djokovic. At this moment, though I could be tainted by today's results, I feel like Djokovic will win the U.S. Open, beating Roger Federer or Roddick, depending on the draw. Either this will happen or it will be a Federer/Nadal, first-time-ever U.S. Open final. At the moment I don't think Nadal will win but I'm not sure that Federer will either.
I congratulate Djokovic on the win and even though I wanted Federer and Nadal to play, I can't wait to see what the upcoming weeks will bring.
Thanks and stay tuned. Once the U.S. Open starts I'll blog almost every day.
God Bless,
Sarah
Novak Djokovic beat Roger Federer, 7-6, 2-6, 7-6, to claim the victory.
Djokovic is quickly becoming the one to beat and honestly it's freaking me out.
I personally like the 20-year-old Serbian but my heart belongs to Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Andy Roddick. Djokovic beat all three of them in this tournament. This is the first time anyone has beaten the top three since 1994. I knew that Djokovic was gaining strength and confidence but I didn't think he was gaining it this fast. I'm worried for Federer and Nadal.
But I've also learned that you don't give up. As I said last night, it won't take Federer or Nadal long to push this loss aside and move on.
But…the U.S. Open is only a few weeks away and things are looking good for Djokovic. At this moment, though I could be tainted by today's results, I feel like Djokovic will win the U.S. Open, beating Roger Federer or Roddick, depending on the draw. Either this will happen or it will be a Federer/Nadal, first-time-ever U.S. Open final. At the moment I don't think Nadal will win but I'm not sure that Federer will either.
I congratulate Djokovic on the win and even though I wanted Federer and Nadal to play, I can't wait to see what the upcoming weeks will bring.
Thanks and stay tuned. Once the U.S. Open starts I'll blog almost every day.
God Bless,
Sarah
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Nadal Loses to Djokovic
Well tonight was a sad night for Rafael Nadal fans.
The 21-year-old Spainard, still ranked No. 2 in the world, lost to the Novak Djokovic, 21, of Serbia. Djokovic has quickly become one of the greatest tennis players.
Djokovic keeps playing musical chairs with Andy Roddick to claim the No. 3 spot. Currently he is ranked No. 3 but if he wins tomorrow in the Rogers Masters final against Roger Federer, Djokovic could well secure that No. 3 spot for a while.
Despite the fact that he lost, tonight's match wasn't exactly a great game for Nadal. He played okay. Of course there were some pretty good shots on both sides, each hitting the ball over 200 mph a few times.
Djokovic played a pretty great game. He was all over the court but had Nadal running left and right. Nadal only got two aces for the night -- Djokovic scoring 10. Both served close to 70 percent.
The final score was 7-5, 6-3.
While I'm sad, no one can ever count Nadal out. Djokovic has only beat him two or times.
One thing that really excited me about this match was that my sister Kimmie watched it with me. She is not a tennis fan and has been hard to convert but she kind of enjoyed it. I was just glad to have her company.
Nadal will be right back on the courts soon. I'm really expecting a Federer/Nadal U.S. Open final but I wouldn't count out Djokovic and Roddick. Federer beat Roddick last year in the U.S. Open.
That's all for now. The Federer/Djokovic final is at 3 p.m. tomorrow on ESPN 2.
Goodnight and God Bless
Sarah
The 21-year-old Spainard, still ranked No. 2 in the world, lost to the Novak Djokovic, 21, of Serbia. Djokovic has quickly become one of the greatest tennis players.
Djokovic keeps playing musical chairs with Andy Roddick to claim the No. 3 spot. Currently he is ranked No. 3 but if he wins tomorrow in the Rogers Masters final against Roger Federer, Djokovic could well secure that No. 3 spot for a while.
Despite the fact that he lost, tonight's match wasn't exactly a great game for Nadal. He played okay. Of course there were some pretty good shots on both sides, each hitting the ball over 200 mph a few times.
Djokovic played a pretty great game. He was all over the court but had Nadal running left and right. Nadal only got two aces for the night -- Djokovic scoring 10. Both served close to 70 percent.
The final score was 7-5, 6-3.
While I'm sad, no one can ever count Nadal out. Djokovic has only beat him two or times.
One thing that really excited me about this match was that my sister Kimmie watched it with me. She is not a tennis fan and has been hard to convert but she kind of enjoyed it. I was just glad to have her company.
Nadal will be right back on the courts soon. I'm really expecting a Federer/Nadal U.S. Open final but I wouldn't count out Djokovic and Roddick. Federer beat Roddick last year in the U.S. Open.
That's all for now. The Federer/Djokovic final is at 3 p.m. tomorrow on ESPN 2.
Goodnight and God Bless
Sarah
Sunday, July 8, 2007
Final Blog: Wimbledon # 8 The Rivalry Continues
Raindrops fell not on Centre Court at Wimbledon today as Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal battled with aching emotions and spent minds to achieve one goal: the Wimbledon trophy.
Had Nadal of won, spectators would have seen a common sight: the Spaniard taking a bite of the trophy.
Instead a kiss was only to be seen. One Roger places upon his trophy every time he wins.
Roger Federer tied Bjorn Borg for 5 consecutive Wimbledon titles today.
The game, I expect, will go down in tennis history.
Rafael Nadal came so close to snatching the dream away from Federer to pursue his own dreams of being the only man since Bjorn Borg to win the French Open and Wimbledon back to back.
I don't think in my 19 years and since I began watching tennis that I have seen such a close and fantastic match.
The Match:
In the first set Roger Federer, serving first, barely kept Nadal from winning. After a tiebreaker of 8-2, Federer won the set 7-6. In the second set Rafa took control winning 4-6. In the third set Federer again had trouble keeping the Spaniard from faulting. Federer did manage to win 7-6.
I was absolutely blown away by the fourth set. Nadal, after having problems with his leg, held 0-4 before winning 2-6. Federer began losing his composure. Never has he been pushed into a fifth set in a final.
But if anyone could break him, it would be Rafa. Nadal had two opportunities to break in the set but Federer eventually controlled his emotions to win. With tears and falling to the ground, Federer claimed that which was his.
I couldn't be prouder of these two guys. I wanted Nadal to win with all of my heart. I also wanted Federer to win the French.
It wasn't time.
But, the rivalry continues. And what a great rivalry it is. "I win my share. He wins his. It's a good rivalry, I think," Federer said.
It was nice to see the players so respectful after the match. Federer said that Nadal also deserved the win and Nadal said Federer is one of the best.
"I told Rafa at the net that he deserved to win," Federer said.
Nadal also said that "He [Federer] is very close to being the greatest player of all time…..His tennis is unbelievable."
Despite the fact that today was also a day of broken hearts and bitter-sweet memories; I think Rafa said it best: "These first moments – especially after you lose in the fifth set – are not easy. But I am a good loser. I accept the loss very well, and it doesn't affect me for more than a few hours. Tomorrow I will be happy about my tournament and my game."
Yes I'm disappointed in the results, but not in the players. I'm also happy with the results. It's a roller coaster ride to be honest. I had to go and hit a tennis ball around with my racquet just to relieve tension I felt from the game.
Wimbledon 2007 is over. It is but a memory. I can only imagine what next year will bring as World No. 1 Roger Federer and World No. 2 Rafael Nadal continue to breach each others' territories and claim new ground.
In less than two months they head to New York for the U.S. Open? Can Federer win there again or has Nadal realized that victory is within reach?
Time will tell.
This is probably my last Wimbledon blog. I may have comments later after my mind has rested but Wimbledon is over. I thank each of you who actually read these blogs and I hope you have seen that tennis is an amazing adventure. Keep checking because I have more to say as there are more games to play, more words to write, and as the rivalry continues.
Source: www.wimbledon.org.
Had Nadal of won, spectators would have seen a common sight: the Spaniard taking a bite of the trophy.
Instead a kiss was only to be seen. One Roger places upon his trophy every time he wins.
Roger Federer tied Bjorn Borg for 5 consecutive Wimbledon titles today.
The game, I expect, will go down in tennis history.
Rafael Nadal came so close to snatching the dream away from Federer to pursue his own dreams of being the only man since Bjorn Borg to win the French Open and Wimbledon back to back.
I don't think in my 19 years and since I began watching tennis that I have seen such a close and fantastic match.
The Match:
In the first set Roger Federer, serving first, barely kept Nadal from winning. After a tiebreaker of 8-2, Federer won the set 7-6. In the second set Rafa took control winning 4-6. In the third set Federer again had trouble keeping the Spaniard from faulting. Federer did manage to win 7-6.
I was absolutely blown away by the fourth set. Nadal, after having problems with his leg, held 0-4 before winning 2-6. Federer began losing his composure. Never has he been pushed into a fifth set in a final.
But if anyone could break him, it would be Rafa. Nadal had two opportunities to break in the set but Federer eventually controlled his emotions to win. With tears and falling to the ground, Federer claimed that which was his.
I couldn't be prouder of these two guys. I wanted Nadal to win with all of my heart. I also wanted Federer to win the French.
It wasn't time.
But, the rivalry continues. And what a great rivalry it is. "I win my share. He wins his. It's a good rivalry, I think," Federer said.
It was nice to see the players so respectful after the match. Federer said that Nadal also deserved the win and Nadal said Federer is one of the best.
"I told Rafa at the net that he deserved to win," Federer said.
Nadal also said that "He [Federer] is very close to being the greatest player of all time…..His tennis is unbelievable."
Despite the fact that today was also a day of broken hearts and bitter-sweet memories; I think Rafa said it best: "These first moments – especially after you lose in the fifth set – are not easy. But I am a good loser. I accept the loss very well, and it doesn't affect me for more than a few hours. Tomorrow I will be happy about my tournament and my game."
Yes I'm disappointed in the results, but not in the players. I'm also happy with the results. It's a roller coaster ride to be honest. I had to go and hit a tennis ball around with my racquet just to relieve tension I felt from the game.
Wimbledon 2007 is over. It is but a memory. I can only imagine what next year will bring as World No. 1 Roger Federer and World No. 2 Rafael Nadal continue to breach each others' territories and claim new ground.
In less than two months they head to New York for the U.S. Open? Can Federer win there again or has Nadal realized that victory is within reach?
Time will tell.
This is probably my last Wimbledon blog. I may have comments later after my mind has rested but Wimbledon is over. I thank each of you who actually read these blogs and I hope you have seen that tennis is an amazing adventure. Keep checking because I have more to say as there are more games to play, more words to write, and as the rivalry continues.
Source: www.wimbledon.org.
Saturday, July 7, 2007
Wimbledon # 7
What can I say?
Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are my favorite tennis players for a reason.
Tomorrow is yet again another Federer/Nadal final! In the last two years, these two men have played in four of the last eight finals! They are far above their peers in ATP rankings and their skill is seemingly unattainable. The rankings are determined by the number of points they acquire after advancing and winning matches. (Federer has 7290 points; Nadal 5225 and Roddick behind with 3055. As you can see, Federer and Nadal are way above other players).
The fact of the matter is that Federer and Nadal can play badly and still beat even their toughest challengers.
Before I talk about the Women's Final and the Upcoming Men's Final.
This is for those who do not understand anyone's fascination with tennis.
I've never been a girl into sports. But through this love for tennis I have come to respect other sports and its players. Tennis, at times, can seem like a game for only the affluent traditionalists, but there is more to it than that…much more.
Unlike most sports (football, hockey, baseball, basketball, etc) tennis is a one-on-one sport. While the Dallas Cowboys, or any other football team, may win several Super bowls in a relatively short amount of time, the fact that Roger Federer is about to play in his 10th consecutive Grand Slam final is remarkable.
If I'm not mistaken, though I could be wrong so please let me know, a football team has never played in 10 consecutive Super Bowls nor has a baseball team competed in the World Series for 10 straight years.
Don't you see the skill these tennis players have to possess to advance so far?
It's every man, or women, for themselves.
Back to the results
Venus Williams won her 4th Wimbledon title today! It's quite exciting. She was actually down-right giddy, well deserved though considering she is only the 23rd seed player (this means she is ranked 23rd in the world) at the moment though this is sure to change after today's win.
I didn't get to watch the game but I know she played her best.
Men's Final
I was genuinely sad to see Andy Roddick go. Though he is probably ranked 3rd on my list, I like him, and I think he is working hard, hoping to one day beat Roger Federer and become No. 1 once again.
But as it usually goes, other players fell to the rackets of Nadal and Federer.
Tomorrow will be a game for the record books.
The Stakes:
If Federer wins it will be his 5th consecutive Wimbledon title. He will tie Bjorn Borg (who will be at the final) for this honor.
It's funny because it was in 2003 when Federer won his first Wimbledon, keeping Pete Sampras from winning his 5th consecutive Wimbledon.
While I don't think this has anything to do with tomorrow, it is interesting.
So who do I want/think is going to win? This is one of the hardest calls I've had to make. I mean I really adore Federer and I want him to achieve this goal, on the other hand, Nadal has goals of his own he needs to achieve.
Common sense tells me that Federer is going to win but I'm not convinced.
I truly believe 100% that next year is Federer's year, I mean really his year. I think Federer may lose Wimbledon and/or the U.S. Open but will come back next year to win every Grand Slam in a single year and with the greatest of attitudes and spirits. This will give him a Calendar Year Grand Slam (something only one man has ever accomplished: Rod Laver). I want this very much for him.
Still, Rafael Nadal has proved that not only is he the King of Clay, he is the Prince of Grass and one of the most humble stars I have seen.
Playing tennis is his job, his career, his life…but it's also his love. Maybe I'm wrong but I don't believe his is playing just for money and fame (in fact, he doesn't handle the fame well) I think he genuinely loves the game, he loves tennis. What more could you ask for?
So I hope this wasn't confusing. I know I didn't give a definite answer because I don't know and I haven't decided who I am going for yet. In the end the one who genuinely wants this the most and plays his best is going to win. I pray for both of their successes.
Come back tomorrow! I will likely let you know who I'm going for and then of course I'll blog about the aftermath.
This is going to be a great match! I hope I've convinced you by now that there is more to tennis than meets the eye, if not, don't worry, there is still time. I know this is long but if you made it this far I greatly appreciate it! God Bless.
Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are my favorite tennis players for a reason.
Tomorrow is yet again another Federer/Nadal final! In the last two years, these two men have played in four of the last eight finals! They are far above their peers in ATP rankings and their skill is seemingly unattainable. The rankings are determined by the number of points they acquire after advancing and winning matches. (Federer has 7290 points; Nadal 5225 and Roddick behind with 3055. As you can see, Federer and Nadal are way above other players).
The fact of the matter is that Federer and Nadal can play badly and still beat even their toughest challengers.
Before I talk about the Women's Final and the Upcoming Men's Final.
This is for those who do not understand anyone's fascination with tennis.
I've never been a girl into sports. But through this love for tennis I have come to respect other sports and its players. Tennis, at times, can seem like a game for only the affluent traditionalists, but there is more to it than that…much more.
Unlike most sports (football, hockey, baseball, basketball, etc) tennis is a one-on-one sport. While the Dallas Cowboys, or any other football team, may win several Super bowls in a relatively short amount of time, the fact that Roger Federer is about to play in his 10th consecutive Grand Slam final is remarkable.
If I'm not mistaken, though I could be wrong so please let me know, a football team has never played in 10 consecutive Super Bowls nor has a baseball team competed in the World Series for 10 straight years.
Don't you see the skill these tennis players have to possess to advance so far?
It's every man, or women, for themselves.
Back to the results
Venus Williams won her 4th Wimbledon title today! It's quite exciting. She was actually down-right giddy, well deserved though considering she is only the 23rd seed player (this means she is ranked 23rd in the world) at the moment though this is sure to change after today's win.
I didn't get to watch the game but I know she played her best.
Men's Final
I was genuinely sad to see Andy Roddick go. Though he is probably ranked 3rd on my list, I like him, and I think he is working hard, hoping to one day beat Roger Federer and become No. 1 once again.
But as it usually goes, other players fell to the rackets of Nadal and Federer.
Tomorrow will be a game for the record books.
The Stakes:
If Federer wins it will be his 5th consecutive Wimbledon title. He will tie Bjorn Borg (who will be at the final) for this honor.
It's funny because it was in 2003 when Federer won his first Wimbledon, keeping Pete Sampras from winning his 5th consecutive Wimbledon.
While I don't think this has anything to do with tomorrow, it is interesting.
So who do I want/think is going to win? This is one of the hardest calls I've had to make. I mean I really adore Federer and I want him to achieve this goal, on the other hand, Nadal has goals of his own he needs to achieve.
Common sense tells me that Federer is going to win but I'm not convinced.
I truly believe 100% that next year is Federer's year, I mean really his year. I think Federer may lose Wimbledon and/or the U.S. Open but will come back next year to win every Grand Slam in a single year and with the greatest of attitudes and spirits. This will give him a Calendar Year Grand Slam (something only one man has ever accomplished: Rod Laver). I want this very much for him.
Still, Rafael Nadal has proved that not only is he the King of Clay, he is the Prince of Grass and one of the most humble stars I have seen.
Playing tennis is his job, his career, his life…but it's also his love. Maybe I'm wrong but I don't believe his is playing just for money and fame (in fact, he doesn't handle the fame well) I think he genuinely loves the game, he loves tennis. What more could you ask for?
So I hope this wasn't confusing. I know I didn't give a definite answer because I don't know and I haven't decided who I am going for yet. In the end the one who genuinely wants this the most and plays his best is going to win. I pray for both of their successes.
Come back tomorrow! I will likely let you know who I'm going for and then of course I'll blog about the aftermath.
This is going to be a great match! I hope I've convinced you by now that there is more to tennis than meets the eye, if not, don't worry, there is still time. I know this is long but if you made it this far I greatly appreciate it! God Bless.
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Wimbledon # 6
Okay so I'll try to make this short!
Today was another exciting day! Rafael Nadal won his fourth round match against Youzhny but only after five sets. Rafa lost the first two sets only to win the last three. That's amazing.
I unfortunately didn't get to see any of the marathon match (which started Saturday and ended on Thursday) with Soderling but I did see a clip of the end. Soderling wouldn't even look at Nadal when shaking his hand. Nadal, who usually wouldn't say anything like this, mentioned how disappointed he was in his opponent in the press conference, McEnroe said today on NBC. It just goes to show that Nadal is quite the humble man and I hope he stays that way.
Today's results:
Baghdatis (who will play Djokovic tomorrow won) as well as Berdych (who Rafa will play tomorrow). Federer will also finish his match with Ferrero. Roddick will play Gasquet.
It's interesting that Federer has had 5 days off and Nadal has played 6 straight days. In a press conference Roddick said that they were staying in locker rooms for 9 straight hours and day and Federer was probably taking a double decker red bus tour (it's London you know). In the end he said he'd rather have a living room than a locker room.
Of course I think Nadal, Federer, Roddick and probably Djokovic will win tomorrow. It's going to be hard to beat Baghdatis but I think Djokovic's youth will give him an advantage.
Come back tomorrow for my take on tomorrow's interesting matches! It's almost time for the finals! I'm so excited, aren't you?
Today was another exciting day! Rafael Nadal won his fourth round match against Youzhny but only after five sets. Rafa lost the first two sets only to win the last three. That's amazing.
I unfortunately didn't get to see any of the marathon match (which started Saturday and ended on Thursday) with Soderling but I did see a clip of the end. Soderling wouldn't even look at Nadal when shaking his hand. Nadal, who usually wouldn't say anything like this, mentioned how disappointed he was in his opponent in the press conference, McEnroe said today on NBC. It just goes to show that Nadal is quite the humble man and I hope he stays that way.
Today's results:
Baghdatis (who will play Djokovic tomorrow won) as well as Berdych (who Rafa will play tomorrow). Federer will also finish his match with Ferrero. Roddick will play Gasquet.
It's interesting that Federer has had 5 days off and Nadal has played 6 straight days. In a press conference Roddick said that they were staying in locker rooms for 9 straight hours and day and Federer was probably taking a double decker red bus tour (it's London you know). In the end he said he'd rather have a living room than a locker room.
Of course I think Nadal, Federer, Roddick and probably Djokovic will win tomorrow. It's going to be hard to beat Baghdatis but I think Djokovic's youth will give him an advantage.
Come back tomorrow for my take on tomorrow's interesting matches! It's almost time for the finals! I'm so excited, aren't you?
Wimbledon # 5
Well yesterday was a completely insane day for women's tennis. The match between Venus and Sharapova was a great game, at least for Venus. Sharapova really never got her head into the game, although she did save countless breakpoints!!! Venus was in her element and I was happy to see her win. Her sister on the other hand was defeated again by Justine Henin. It was a sad day, even though I do like Henin.
I was, however, disappointed that I had the day off yesterday only to find that NBC cut my tennis for soap operas. I only had the opportunity to see the Venus and Serena's match.
I was, however, disappointed that I had the day off yesterday only to find that NBC cut my tennis for soap operas. I only had the opportunity to see the Venus and Serena's match.
Today there is an awesome line up today:
Venus already won her quarterfinal match today. Here is the men's schedule:
- Roger Federer (finally) plays Juan Carlos Ferrero today. My pick: Federer
- Hewitt plays Djokovic: My pick: This is really hard, common sense tells me Hewitt but I'm going with Djokovic.
- Roddick plays Richard Gasquet. My pick: Roddick!
- Nadal plays Youzhny. My pick: This is going to be tough for Nadal but with all my heart I'm going with Nadal.
Come back later today for my take on today's results.
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Wimbledon # 4
OH MY GOODNESS! They had to suspend 12 matches today which means the mens finals may be on MONDAY!!! That CAN'T happen!!!
Well, it's a very sad summer when there is no time to watch Wimbledon. In fact, it's down right tragic.
Things are going as usual on the grass courts of Wimbledon: big names are winning and the rains are pouring! I was talking to a photographer today and we discussed the negative effects we think the new retractable roof will have on the atmosphere of Wimbledon.
In 2009 there will be a new roof nstalled at Centre Court. It is retractable and will keep out the rains but to be honest, I think this cheats the fans and players out of an experience that is unique to Wimbledon.
Sure, I know it can be stressful when you're in the middle of watching your favorite players only to find out they will finish the match you have waited all year to see on the next day.
I think there is something special about the anticipation that arises when you have to wait. I think the roof is an easy way out. I mean come on, when it's raining and the roof is covering the courts, they're not going to say "We'll it's raining, let's uncover the court and take five."
I think it's probably fun for everyone not knowing what's going to happen, at least for the fans.
So tomorrow is going to be an amazing day. The line up has some surprises in store...I'm sure of it.
Andy Roddick and Paul-Henri Mathieu will finish their match followed by a Williams' sister attack. Venus will take on Sharapova (be sure to mute your TVs, this will be a loud match) and then a Serena and Justine Henin match (this will very exciting considering Henin beat Serena on clay). I'm really hoping that Serena will pull through even after her injury. Rafael Nadal will also take on Robin Soderling of Sweden ranked 28.
I'm wondering if Federer is going to play again.
Come back tomorrow for my opinions on the matches of the day.
Well, it's a very sad summer when there is no time to watch Wimbledon. In fact, it's down right tragic.
Things are going as usual on the grass courts of Wimbledon: big names are winning and the rains are pouring! I was talking to a photographer today and we discussed the negative effects we think the new retractable roof will have on the atmosphere of Wimbledon.
In 2009 there will be a new roof nstalled at Centre Court. It is retractable and will keep out the rains but to be honest, I think this cheats the fans and players out of an experience that is unique to Wimbledon.
Sure, I know it can be stressful when you're in the middle of watching your favorite players only to find out they will finish the match you have waited all year to see on the next day.
I think there is something special about the anticipation that arises when you have to wait. I think the roof is an easy way out. I mean come on, when it's raining and the roof is covering the courts, they're not going to say "We'll it's raining, let's uncover the court and take five."
I think it's probably fun for everyone not knowing what's going to happen, at least for the fans.
So tomorrow is going to be an amazing day. The line up has some surprises in store...I'm sure of it.
Andy Roddick and Paul-Henri Mathieu will finish their match followed by a Williams' sister attack. Venus will take on Sharapova (be sure to mute your TVs, this will be a loud match) and then a Serena and Justine Henin match (this will very exciting considering Henin beat Serena on clay). I'm really hoping that Serena will pull through even after her injury. Rafael Nadal will also take on Robin Soderling of Sweden ranked 28.
I'm wondering if Federer is going to play again.
Come back tomorrow for my opinions on the matches of the day.
Monday, July 2, 2007
Wimbledon # 3
We'll I'm upset.
I wrote this long blog today about Wimbledon and went to copy it to spell check and hit the back button and lost it all!
So I'm not going to rewrite it since I should be in bed but to sum it up:
I'm stumped but my pick for the girls is Serena Williams.
Come back tomorrow for a more detailed explanation.
Sincerely,
Sarah
I wrote this long blog today about Wimbledon and went to copy it to spell check and hit the back button and lost it all!
So I'm not going to rewrite it since I should be in bed but to sum it up:
I'm stumped but my pick for the girls is Serena Williams.
Come back tomorrow for a more detailed explanation.
Sincerely,
Sarah
Sunday, July 1, 2007
Wimbledon # 2
Well my outlook has severely changed on the outcome of the Wimbledon finals since last night. I'm leaning more towards my original thoughts that I had a week ago.
Roger Federer did it again. He made it to the quarter-finals and didn't even have to play in the fourth round. That's right, after Tommy Haas had to withdrawal due to another injury, Federer sailed through and now has several days off before another match. Because of the rain Federer won't be able to practice much on grass.
This could be bad, even for Federer.
As I watched the third round between Federer and Russia's Marat Safin, my thoughts changed. First I have to say that Safin is one of my favorites — at least in my top five, maybe top four. Federer and Safin played some sweet shots in that match but I think Federer is right. Safin has become a little complacent with where he is. I think he wants to beat Federer again but he just doesn't want it bad enough. Safin and Nadal, as discussed on today on NBC, are the only two players that have beaten Federer in a major in three years.
That's pretty remarkable.
Nevertheless, I have renewed faith in Safin. I think he was well on his way to becoming one of the greatest of all time but Federer started to crush his dreams and Safin hasn't recovered. I think that could be changing.
Roger Federer is humble, there is no doubt in my mind that he is, but I have to say that I feel like he may experience a rude awakening. Wimbledon is his kingdom and he is the King there but he has to remember that he's not invincible.
I truly believe that next year is going to be Federer's year. I think he is going to win every grand slam for a Calendar Year Grand Slam and will win every match with dignity and his heart will be humbled…but this year…I'm just not sure.
My hopes are high for Andy Roddick. To be honest, up until this year I wanted Roddick to come and finally beat Federer in the finals at Wimbledon. The most he can hope for is beating him in the quarters or semis but not the final. Of course knowing now how high the stakes are for Federer, I do want him to win but I think Roddick wants this, I mean really wants this. Even though I feel out of the loop with Nadal all of a sudden, I believe that Federer shouldn't hold his breath. If he makes it to the finals, which I'm sure he will, if he doesn't look at his opponents for what they truly are — threats — he may not win his fifth consecutive Wimbledon title.
So who's going to win? Probably Federer, but I'm not 100 percent convinced. But you can guarantee it's going to be Roddick, Nadal, or Federer.
Could you imagine what it would be like if it's a Roddick/Nadal Final??? Oh my goodness. I love them all but I want Federer to acquire that Grand Slam!
Come back tomorrow for more thoughts. Thanks.
Roger Federer did it again. He made it to the quarter-finals and didn't even have to play in the fourth round. That's right, after Tommy Haas had to withdrawal due to another injury, Federer sailed through and now has several days off before another match. Because of the rain Federer won't be able to practice much on grass.
This could be bad, even for Federer.
As I watched the third round between Federer and Russia's Marat Safin, my thoughts changed. First I have to say that Safin is one of my favorites — at least in my top five, maybe top four. Federer and Safin played some sweet shots in that match but I think Federer is right. Safin has become a little complacent with where he is. I think he wants to beat Federer again but he just doesn't want it bad enough. Safin and Nadal, as discussed on today on NBC, are the only two players that have beaten Federer in a major in three years.
That's pretty remarkable.
Nevertheless, I have renewed faith in Safin. I think he was well on his way to becoming one of the greatest of all time but Federer started to crush his dreams and Safin hasn't recovered. I think that could be changing.
Roger Federer is humble, there is no doubt in my mind that he is, but I have to say that I feel like he may experience a rude awakening. Wimbledon is his kingdom and he is the King there but he has to remember that he's not invincible.
I truly believe that next year is going to be Federer's year. I think he is going to win every grand slam for a Calendar Year Grand Slam and will win every match with dignity and his heart will be humbled…but this year…I'm just not sure.
My hopes are high for Andy Roddick. To be honest, up until this year I wanted Roddick to come and finally beat Federer in the finals at Wimbledon. The most he can hope for is beating him in the quarters or semis but not the final. Of course knowing now how high the stakes are for Federer, I do want him to win but I think Roddick wants this, I mean really wants this. Even though I feel out of the loop with Nadal all of a sudden, I believe that Federer shouldn't hold his breath. If he makes it to the finals, which I'm sure he will, if he doesn't look at his opponents for what they truly are — threats — he may not win his fifth consecutive Wimbledon title.
So who's going to win? Probably Federer, but I'm not 100 percent convinced. But you can guarantee it's going to be Roddick, Nadal, or Federer.
Could you imagine what it would be like if it's a Roddick/Nadal Final??? Oh my goodness. I love them all but I want Federer to acquire that Grand Slam!
Come back tomorrow for more thoughts. Thanks.
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Wimbledon # 1
Hey everyone!
Though I Should have started this a week ago, every day I'm going to blog about my thoughts on the finals of Wimbledon and my thoughts on the pros.
These were my thoughts two weeks ago: Roger Federer, of course, is considered one of the greatest tennis players of all time, especially on grass. He is the King of Grass and rightly so. If Federer wins Wimbledon for the fifth time in a row, few will be able to keep up.
But Federer has one problem: Rafael Nadal.
The 21-year-old Spaniard has given Federer and his creamy-white crested blazer a run for their money. Federer recently experienced a humiliating blow a few weeks ago losing the French Open, AGAIN, to Nadal. Had Federer of won he could claim a career slam and a non calendar year grand and would have been well on his way to achieving a calendar year grand slam.
But Nadal had other plans.
Federer is a humble guy but it was easy to tell he was highly hacked at not winning. Federer's spat with Nadal reminds me of Andy Roddick and Federer's feud.
In the last four years Roddick and Federer met three times in the finals and semi-finals, Roddick losing every time. Why? Because Roddick can't control his emotions. As soon as he starts losing it's all over from there. Federer actually has this problem where Nadal is concerned. Federer believes he has Wimbledon in the bag and if he's not careful, Nadal will snatch it away.
A week ago I felt like Nadal really had a chance and I still do but today I'm really feeling like Federer has his head in the game and so does Roddick. I'm just not feeling Nadal's vibes right now. Of course this could change.
So, while I still believe it will be a Federer and Nadal rematch, right now I feel like Federer will win.
Come back tomorrow for more thoughts! They can change at any moment.
Sincerely,
Sarah
Though I Should have started this a week ago, every day I'm going to blog about my thoughts on the finals of Wimbledon and my thoughts on the pros.
These were my thoughts two weeks ago: Roger Federer, of course, is considered one of the greatest tennis players of all time, especially on grass. He is the King of Grass and rightly so. If Federer wins Wimbledon for the fifth time in a row, few will be able to keep up.
But Federer has one problem: Rafael Nadal.
The 21-year-old Spaniard has given Federer and his creamy-white crested blazer a run for their money. Federer recently experienced a humiliating blow a few weeks ago losing the French Open, AGAIN, to Nadal. Had Federer of won he could claim a career slam and a non calendar year grand and would have been well on his way to achieving a calendar year grand slam.
But Nadal had other plans.
Federer is a humble guy but it was easy to tell he was highly hacked at not winning. Federer's spat with Nadal reminds me of Andy Roddick and Federer's feud.
In the last four years Roddick and Federer met three times in the finals and semi-finals, Roddick losing every time. Why? Because Roddick can't control his emotions. As soon as he starts losing it's all over from there. Federer actually has this problem where Nadal is concerned. Federer believes he has Wimbledon in the bag and if he's not careful, Nadal will snatch it away.
A week ago I felt like Nadal really had a chance and I still do but today I'm really feeling like Federer has his head in the game and so does Roddick. I'm just not feeling Nadal's vibes right now. Of course this could change.
So, while I still believe it will be a Federer and Nadal rematch, right now I feel like Federer will win.
Come back tomorrow for more thoughts! They can change at any moment.
Sincerely,
Sarah
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