Australian Open Tennis

[Silock]

I guess updated for 2012?

Americans are all out.

[Silock]

I know no one probably cares, but James Blake is on ESPN2 right now fighting for his tournament life. Roddick went out yesterday, so this leaves Blake as the only American that conceivably DO anything in the tournament.

[Chiefs=Champions]

Yes. I live in Australia and have been watching it pretty closely, along with the cricket. Agree with all your points to, especially the Sharapova point :drool: .
Bad luck about Rodick last night by the way. Not often u get 42 aces in a game and still lose…

[Silock]

Yeah, he seemed pretty pissed about it in his interview, too.

Blake pulled out that win, though, which is amazing. Down 2 sets, and 4-1 in the 4th and still managed to win. Incredible. He just got helped by Cilic, who upset Gonzalez, and Blake should roll him.

[007]

I just want Federer to lose. Every time.

[Chiefs=Champions]

Yeah, he seemed pretty pissed about it in his interview, too.

Blake pulled out that win, though, which is amazing. Down 2 sets, and 4-1 in the 4th and still managed to win. Incredible. He just got helped by Cilic, who upset Gonzalez, and Blake should roll him.

Darn afraid I missed that one sounded like a good one though and a very good win for the American. Yer he should find the next game a bit easier.

On another note can’t wait for the Hewitt, Baghdadis game. But like more than half of Australians will be rooting against the Aussie. He dose not represent us well lol. :shake:

[Silock]

He's about to play. He's not about to lose, though. He's just too good.

[Silock]

On another note can’t wait for the Hewitt, Baghdadis game. But like more than half of Australians will be rooting against the Aussie. He dose not represent us well lol. :shake:

That match is later on today, isn't it?

I'll be rooting for Hewitt simply because I'm not a big fan of Baghdadis.

[Chiefs=Champions]

I just want Federer to lose. Every time.

I don’t necessarily want him to win, but he’s to nice of a guy and a gracious winner to root against...right? I sort of just want him to win the Grand Slam this year to get it over with. Then he can lose… ;)

[Chiefs=Champions]

That match is later on today, isn't it?

I'll be rooting for Hewitt simply because I'm not a big fan of Baghdadis.

Yer i think so around 6 pm here i think... South Australian time if that helps...

[007]

I don’t necessarily want him to win, but he’s to nice of a guy and a gracious winner to root against...right? I sort of just want him to win the Grand Slam this year to get it over with. Then he can lose… ;)
Meh. He isn't american so I have no interest in him. Drives me nuts that Roddick and Blake can't end his reign in Wimbledon.

[Silock]

Yer i think so around 6 pm here i think... South Australian time if that helps...

Yeah, you're 17 hours ahead of us here in KC.

[007]

Yer i think so around 6 pm here i think... South Australian time if that helps...
So you live there? We have a friend that lives somewhere near Melbourne I think. We can't wait to visit someday.

[Chiefs=Champions]

Meh. He isn't american so I have no interest in him. Drives me nuts that Roddick and Blake can't end his reign in Wimbledon.

Yer I fully understand where you’re coming from, I know a lot of people who just go against Federier or for whoever’s Australian, but for me when you have wankers like Hewitt representing your country, I just can’t bring myself to go for them. The others are fine though lol…No offense but those guys just need to get more consistent. Both still have a lot of potential especially Rodick with his serving ability.

[007]

Yer I fully understand where you’re coming from, I know a lot of people who just go against Federier or for whoever’s Australian, but for me when you have wankers like Hewitt representing your country, I just can’t bring myself to go for them. The others are fine though lol…No offense but those guys just need to get more consistent. Both still have a lot of potential especially Rodick with his serving ability.


He said wankers. LMAO I love it!!!

Roddick is really lacking the right coach. But then again, if Conners can't get him to adjust then who can?

[Silock]

Yer I fully understand where you’re coming from, I know a lot of people who just go against Federier or for whoever’s Australian, but for me when you have wankers like Hewitt representing your country, I just can’t bring myself to go for them. The others are fine though lol…No offense but those guys just need to get more consistent. Both still have a lot of potential especially Rodick with his serving ability.

Roddick is just too slow. Every time I watch him, the only thing I can think is he really is just a one trick pony. His backhand sucks, and his forehand is above average at best. If his opponent gets him on the run, he's toast.

To me, James Blake has more potential simply because he's more athletic, and it seems like all the top players are just great all around athletes. They're all quick and have more than one trick up their sleeve.

[Chiefs=Champions]

He said wankers. LMAO I love it!!!

Roddick is really lacking the right coach. But then again, if Conners can't get him to adjust then who can?

Hahaha just for u :p . Mmmm much like the NFL some players are just un coachable… Oh well…

[Chiefs=Champions]

Roddick is just too slow. Every time I watch him, the only thing I can think is he really is just a one trick pony. His backhand sucks, and his forehand is above average at best. If his opponent gets him on the run, he's toast.

To me, James Blake has more potential simply because he's more athletic, and it seems like all the top players are just great all around athletes. They're all quick and have more than one trick up their sleeve.

I dont know if u noticed this last night (or whenever for u) but Roddick seems to give up on some balls way to quickly.

[007]

I dont know if u noticed this last night (or whenever for u) but Roddick seems to give up on some balls way to quickly.
He is no Boris Becker.

[Chiefs=Champions]

He is no Boris Becker.

LMAO

[Silock]

Yeah, I think it's because he knows he's too slow to get to most of them, so he gives up on ALL of them too quickly.

Man, just watching this Federer match, it's unreal how good he is. Every shot he makes somehow manages to make it's way in.

[007]

Yeah, I think it's because he knows he's too slow to get to most of them, so he gives up on ALL of them too quickly.

Man, just watching this Federer match, it's unreal how good he is. Every shot he makes somehow manages to make it's way in.
I have never seen him get rattled either.

[Silock]

I've seen him get rattled, but I've never seen him lose a match. I can't remember what match it was last year, but I remember him getting a little crazy at Wimbledon (or was it the US Open?).

It's like playing a computer on the ultimate highest difficulty. Beatable, in theory, but you're not going to do it more than once in your life.

[KC_Connection]

I've seen him get rattled, but I've never seen him lose a match. I can't remember what match it was last year, but I remember him getting a little crazy at Wimbledon (or was it the US Open?).

It's like playing a computer on the ultimate highest difficulty. Beatable, in theory, but you're not going to do it more than once in your life.
You've never watched him lose in the French Open?

Quite a match going on right now. He finally broke Tipserovic to go up 9-8 here in the 5th set, looks like he's going to win.

[HolmeZz]

Federer advances in a classic.

[KC_Connection]

Finally a winner in Federer, I've been sitting in the same spot for awhile.

[Silock]

You've never watched him lose in the French Open?

Quite a match going on right now. He finally broke Tipserovic to go up 9-8 here in the 5th set, looks like he's going to win.

I've never managed to catch a match where I've watched him lose. Of course I know that he's lost a match before :) I'm just saying I've never watched it when it's happened.

[007]

Finally a winner in Federer, I've been sitting in the same spot for awhile.
Are you kidding me? CRAP!!!! I could have watched it and just figured he would roll.

Oh well. Guess it is better this way. I would just be mad that he won anyway. :mad:

[Chiefs=Champions]

Are you kidding me? CRAP!!!! I could have watched it and just figured he would roll.

Oh well. Guess it is better this way. I would just be mad that he won anyway. :mad:

Still no love for Federer? ;)

[chiefqueen]

The obligatory 4 AM Aussie time bump - the Hewitt match is still going.

I don't think there is a tiebreaker in the 5th set (only at the US Open).

[HolmeZz]

Federer v. Blake going on right now. It's in the first set, if anybody's interested.

[KC_Connection]

Federer v. Blake going on right now. In the first set, if anybody's interested.
I am watching. I have class at 9:30 tomorrow, so we'll see how long I can go.

[Ultra Peanut]

sup early class buddy

I'ma watch dis WooWoo

[Silock]

Yeah, I have class at 10, too. Good thing I'm recording this, because I know I'm about to fall asleep.

[KC_Connection]

1-0 Federer.

[HolmeZz]

Federer breaks to take the first set 7-5.

[Ultra Peanut]

So how the **** did Blake manage to win five sets?

I'm going to eat some grapes bitches.

[ClevelandBronco]

Anyone watching this besides me?

In a word, no.

[Ultra Peanut]

In a word, no.Welp,

[HolmeZz]

Blake's toast.

[HolmeZz]

Or not. Bad job by Federer there.

[Ultra Peanut]

For a second, I thought Youmanga's theme had kicked in.

[ClevelandBronco]

Anyone watching this besides me?

Bloody great. Now you have me watching it.

Blake just did a great job coming back from 15-40 to win his service set.

[Ultra Peanut]

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[Ultra Peanut]

CLUTCH

[ClevelandBronco]

Bloody great. Now you have me watching it.

Blake just did a great job coming back from 15-40 to win his service set.

Not "set." It wasn't a set. My bad.

[KC_Connection]

wow.

[Ultra Peanut]

Nooooooooooo, damnit. So close.

[KC_Connection]

2-0 Federer.

crazy good tiebreaker.

[KC_Connection]

3-0 Federer. A pretty predictable outcome after all.

[Silock]

After Fed won the 2nd set, I knew there was no way Blake was going to win.

[Simply Red]

Federer is the best eva! And now that he's figured out how to beat Nadal on clay (see Germany in Nov.07). The French will be his.

[Ecto-I]

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Love Goran Ivanisevic winning Wimby

[Simply Red]

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Love Goran Ivanisevic winning Wimby
Yep, Huge serve he had. He is Czech. IIRC.

[Chiefs=Champions]

Ivanovich just won after losing the first set 6-0.

Man that girl can get to balls that not many other women tennis players can get to...






:hmmm: ................ :drool:

[HolmeZz]

Tsonga took Nadal behind the woodshed in that first set.

[Chiefs=Champions]

Tsonga took Nadal behind the woodshed in that first set.

Yep. Could be an interesting match.

[KC_Connection]

This Tsonga guy is good.

[kcxiv]

Ivonovic vs. Hantuchova match was pretty damned good. Was a damned good comeback by Ana. She's also smoking hot.

[KC_Connection]

Tsonga just owned the chair umpire...

[KC_Connection]

Ivonovic vs. Hantuchova match was pretty damned good. Was a damned good comeback by Ana. She's also smoking hot.
So Sharapova vs. her?

[Ecto-I]

Ivanovic IS hot...Hantuchova is not bad either. Me likes the new breed of female tennis player.

[Simply Red]

So Sharapova vs. her?
Yep. That's correct. I'm watching a taped match, hence my deletion. Then I read the rest of this page. lol

[Hammock Parties]

man that Tsonga guy is just storming through the competition as if he were Federer himself. I love seeing guys coming out of nowhere to take the field by storm. In an era with no good Americans to get geeked about, a true tennis fan can only look for underdogs like this guy, so im hoping he can win the final

[Hammock Parties]

Ivanovic IS hot...Hantuchova is not bad either. Me likes the new breed of female tennis player.

jesus fookin christ yes she is!!! I love ivanovic very much and would love to get with her. Sh'es much like kournikova, yet she can actually play the game really ****ing well.

[HolmeZz]

Djokovic just reeled off 4 straight games to win the first set 7-5 from Federer.

[KC_Connection]

It looks like this match could be a good one.

[HolmeZz]

Djokovic has now won 8 of the last 9 games and leads 4-1 in the second set.

[HolmeZz]

Djokovic takes the second set 6-3. Almost squandered the 5-1 lead, but he recouped.

[KC_Connection]

Djokovic is on fire.

[kcxiv]

wow hell of match so far fot Dj

[kcxiv]

Djokovic has a hell of a serve

[KC_Connection]

Djokovic is making some enemies in the crowd, if he's going to finish this, it best be now.

[kcxiv]

you gotta love him taunting the crowd though.

[KC_Connection]

you gotta love him taunting the crowd though.
hilarious, but if this goes to a 4th set, it's going to hurt him.

[kcxiv]

hilarious, but if this goes to a 4th set, it's going to hurt him.
I think he jsut figured, i may as well just roll with the punches. lol

[kcxiv]

Federer is getting owned by that first serve.

[kcxiv]

He took down the great, i mean great Federer. Congratz

[Ultra Peanut]

Holy shit.

[Ultra Peanut]

UPSET CITY BABY BOONGA BONGA THE DIAPER DANDY

[KC_Connection]

Federer is getting owned by that first serve.
True, but Federer, from what I saw, just never really played well all match. It's very unusual for him to see him play poorly in majors, but he didn't look like himself all tournament really.

Djokovic/Tsonga shouldd be a good one.

[kcxiv]

True, but Federer, from what I saw, just never really played well all match. It's very unusual for him to see him play poorly in majors, but he didn't look like himself all tournament really.

Djokovic/Tsonga shouldd be a good one.
I havent really watched much of the open, but this match did look like Novak was hitting the ball harder and more crisp.

[KC_Connection]

I havent really watched much of the open, but this match did look like Novak was hitting the ball harder and more crisp.
Definitely.

[Silock]

Well, that was certainly a surprise.

It will be interesting to see how Tsonga's athleticism plays against Djokovic. I thought Tsonga looked like the better player against Nadal than Djokovic did against Federer. Should be very good.

[kcxiv]

Tonight the 2 hawt chicks square off. Cant wait.

[HolmeZz]

Tsonga/Djokovic coming on now.

[MaxFects]

I got Djokovic in 3 sets

[HolmeZz]

I got Djokovic in 3 sets

I don't see how it goes 3 sets either way, but I'd think Tsonga would be more likely to sweep. He's been playing the best tennis down there of anyone.

[HolmeZz]

Tsonga just hit an insane shot to break and take the first set 6-4.

[Ecto-I]

All square - One set apiece. I don't know whether to go to bed or stay up all night and watch!

[kcxiv]

All square - One set apiece. I don't know whether to go to bed or stay up all night and watch!
I have that same problem. I am kinda tired, but this match is pretty damned good. It has a chance to be a 5 setter which would take hours. lol

[kcxiv]

Djokovic is awesome. He doesnt let the crowd get to him. He rises up when they turn on him for no reason. Then he mocks them. Just pure awesome.

[KC_Connection]

Djokovic is about to finish this one off, a very well played tournament by him.

[Krusty Kunt]

This thread needs more images of tennis poon.

[alpha_omega]

Just thought i'd see if anyone was watching this year.

Down to quarerfinals. Espn2.

[Chiefs=Champions]

Im watching it. though its hard to miss here.

[KC_Connection]

Wow, I remember this thread. Four years ago since Djokovic broke in with his first major, eh? He's made significant strides as a player since then for sure. Tsonga, who played him in the final, has simply stagnated.

Federer vs. Del Potro starting soon...the real tournament starts tonight.

[Chiefs=Champions]

Djokovic looked very good from what i saw last night. Got it in the bag me thinks..

[stonedstooge]

Federer still fading in his game?

[KC_Connection]

Federer still fading in his game?
Federer looks as good as he has in a few years. He would have likely won the US Open last fall, by the way, had Novak Djokovic not hit a ridiculous passing winner on a Federer match point.

This tournament is still very up for grabs among the big 4 (and maybe Del Potro if he beats Fed).

[Simply Red]

Clijsters says: 'RESPECT THE COCK!'

[Simply Red]

amazing volley!

[Simply Red]

Del Potro will get Federers' attention, but it won't last long, Federer will only give up a set.

[NJChiefsFan]

Clijsters is going to win the Women's draw. Dissapointing to see Wozniacki not adjust her game at all. If she doesn't do it soon she is going to waste a lot of talent.

I am not so sure Nole has it in the bag. I wouldn't bet against him but Nadal is always a threat and Fed looks great in this tournament. I fully expect the 3 to march through their QRTS. I have a decent amount of money on their matches tonight and tomorrow being on Under game bets.

[NJChiefsFan]

Del Potro will get Federers' attention, but it won't last long, Federer will only give up a set.

I don't even think he gives up one set. I saw the over/under games at 38 1/2 and I jumped all over it. I think we are looking at a 4, 6, and 3 match.

[Simply Red]

I don't even think he gives up one set. I saw the over/under games at 38 1/2 and I jumped all over it. I think we are looking at a 4, 6, and 3 match.

yeah, could be, we'll see Del Potro has got in Federers head in yrs. past, IIRC, plus Potro crushes.

[Simply Red]

that's when he fucks up, when he 'guides' the ball - like he did there, Del Potro is better served just knocking the ever-lasting shit out of the ball EVERYtime.

[NJChiefsFan]

Yeah. Del Potro does seem like he is back in form. I just think Federer is playing too well. If DelPo doesn't serve great and hit some big forehands its going to be 3 sets.

[Simply Red]

sick drop shot, jesus, you're right, tonight w/ regards to Federer. He's REALLY 'on' - more so than normal.

[Simply Red]

I think Del Potro goes to Federers barber, though Federer has a slightly better haircut

[Simply Red]

I miss Drysdale, Stolle and Carillo, now it's Pam Shriver, Pat Mac & Brad Gilbert calling it.

Is Stolle even still alive?

[KC_Connection]

Del Potro breaks back. This could be a good one.

[Simply Red]

I was groomed to NOT hit the two-handed backhand, growing up. ...and the two-handed backhand really took off in popularity in the height of my learning the game.

So when i see a player like Del Potro, I often wonder what he'd play like w/o using that 'handcuffing' two-hander.

My game is odd though, big kick serve and I literally run around my forehand to hit my back-hand, i also hit more winners off of my backhand side.

[KC_Connection]

Del Potro will get Federers' attention, but it won't last long, Federer will only give up a set.
I'd go Federer in 4 based on what I'm seeing here as well.

[Simply Red]

though I was invited, I skipped this mens doubles, season. I'll get back into it again, soon. I have all of the gear still. Anyone else besides Morphius, play? He's apparently pretty good.

[KC_Connection]

I was groomed to NOT hit the two-handed backhand, growing up. ...and the two-handed backhand really took off in popularity in the height of my learning the game.

So when i see a player like Del Potro, I often wonder what he'd play like w/o using that 'handcuffing' two-hander.

My game is odd though, big kick serve and I literally run around my forehand to hit my back-hand, i also hit more winners off of my backhand side.
I haven't played tennis at a decent level for a long time now, but I used a two-handed backhand.

[Simply Red]

I'd go Federer in 4 based on what I'm seeing here as well.

yeah Federer is coming down to earth a little.

[KC_Connection]

Del Potro's definitely getting back into the top 5 for sure this season. If he can win matches like these, that will decide whether he gets higher than that.

[Simply Red]

Crushed forehand, jesus cross!

[Simply Red]

Del Potro's definitely getting back into the top 5 for sure this season. If he can win matches like these, that will decide whether he gets higher than that.

he's a tempo player, he psychs his own self out a lot, but he has a history of exchanging bruising strokes w/ Federer. no homo

[KC_Connection]

Federer is just a whiz with the racket. It's amazing to watch him play when he's on. Greatest player of all time?

[Simply Red]

Sampras has to be in that conversation. Stefan Edberg never really got his due credit, i truly feel Stefan Edberg is a top 5 all-time.

[NJChiefsFan]

Federer is just a whiz with the racket. It's amazing to watch him play when he's on. Greatest player of all time?

I always have a hard time answering questions like that. I can't fairly judge players I haven't seen. I do think its hard to say anyone is or was ever better.

I love the guy. I usually root for underdogs, but I love everything about him. I love his love of the game, the history of it, and how much he knows about his place in it. He is humble but has a minor cocky honesty in him.

[KC_Connection]

The break and the set to Federer. Hard to see Del Potro beating him when he's at this level.

[NJChiefsFan]

Oh, and Fed still gets emotional when he doesn't win in Majors....after he has already won SIXTEEN.

[Simply Red]

Agassi's story is my favorite - he's probably my favorite athelete. He once was a young punk - but finished his career embrassing class - he was very professional and an all out gentleman - his final five or six years.

The sport misses him.

[KC_Connection]

Sampras never won at Roland Garros. That holds him back a bit in my mind.

[Chief_For_Life58]

I always have a hard time answering questions like that. I can't fairly judge players I haven't seen. I do think its hard to say anyone is or was ever better.

I love the guy. I usually root for underdogs, but I love everything about him. I love his love of the game, the history of it, and how much he knows about his place in it. He is humble but has a minor cocky honesty in him.

its also really hard to count out the older generation guys who didnt use the advanced rackets that are being used today. think about if rod laver or emerson used the racket djokovic or nadal uses? how good could they be? tough to say in tennis....

[NJChiefsFan]

Agassi's story is my favorite - he's probably my favorite athelete. He once was a young punk - but finished his career embrassing class - he was very professional and an all out gentleman - his final five or six years.

The sport misses him.

I was only old enough to see him in his "veteran/mature" days. His late night matches at the U.S. Open his last 4 years were what locked me into tennis.

[NJChiefsFan]

its also really hard to count out the older generation guys who didnt use the advanced rackets that are being used today. think about if rod laver or emerson used the racket djokovic or nadal uses? how good could they be? tough to say in tennis....

Yes thats a good point. In any sport that makes it so hard to figure out. Not only was the equipment worse, but working out and staying in shape wasn't as big/advanced years ago. Especially if you are talking about sports like baseball or hockey.

[KC_Connection]

The amount of effort that Agassi gave in his matches during the latter stage of his career was incredible.

[Simply Red]

Federer is just a whiz with the racket. It's amazing to watch him play when he's on. Greatest player of all time?

it's what happens, he's been holding a racquet since age 3, IIRC. I always tell people, if you want the best possibility for your child to reach professional sports, get a racquet in their hand by age 5, if they like it, support them their whole career, and most players that consistently play that long, WILL at least make a ranking and most likely earn some income, possibly even get rich off of it. Best chance is with Tennis. It's like no other sport, honest.

[KC_Connection]

I mean Agassi won this tournament at the age of 32 in 2003 beating out guys like Hewitt and Safin (one of my personal favorites) in the prime of their careers. Federer was also beginning his rise top player at the time as well.

Incredible, really.

[Simply Red]

Stefan Edberg was easily MY favorite player, if any of you catch any of his matches on ESPN classic, or where ever, watch them. He was masterful.

[KC_Connection]

I'm too young to have watched Edberg in his prime, yeah.

[Simply Red]

KC Connect, there's an ESPN documentary out there on Andre, I think it's by ESPN - but I highly recommend it, it's quite the story.

Dude had a huge heart in several ways.

Ha, I remember in High School the white and orange Agassi Nikes were what was up, they even had Dupont reinforced toes for wear. Dope shoes.

[Simply Red]

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/7g607SGhBhI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[KC_Connection]

KC Connect, there's an ESPN documentary out there on Andre, I think it's by ESPN - but I highly recommend it, it's quite the story.

Dude had a huge heart in several ways.

Ha, I remember in High School the white and orange Agassi Nikes were what was up, they even had Dupont reinforced toes for wear. Dope shoes.
True, I'll look into it.

[KC_Connection]

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/7g607SGhBhI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Only Gael Monfils would try a thing like that these days (and I think he could pull it off).

[Simply Red]

Only Gael Monfils would try a thing like that these days (and I think he could pull it off).

is that the black French man? He's bad ass, if so.

[KC_Connection]

Del Po's making too many UE's to have a chance against this version of Federer.

[Simply Red]

if Monfils is the same guy i'm thinking of, he's capable of beating Federer for sure.

[KC_Connection]

is that the black French man? He's bad ass, if so.
Yes...the lanky one. There are two (Tsonga and Monfils). Both are incredible players, but Monfils is a showman (which often ends up being to his detriment against top players who are there just to win).

[Simply Red]

Yes...the lanky one. There are two (Tsonga and Monfils). Both are incredible players, but Monfils is a showman (which often ends up being to his detriment against top players who are there just to win).

yes, and they're both phenomenal - but yes, I know they're show-boats. Federer thing is his fitness, i really think that makes a huge difference, he's not blowing Del Potro off of the court right now, I just think he's LESS tired, is all.

[KC_Connection]

if Monfils is the same guy i'm thinking of, he's capable of beating Federer for sure.
http://sportsthenandnow.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Monfils-tennis.jpg

Monfils destroyed Nadal a few weeks back. He's capable of beating pretty much anybody if he keeps his head in the game...he has enormous potential. Potential that I doubt he'll ever reach because of his tactics, but potential nonetheless.

If I was going to choose any player to watch on any given day at a pro tennis tournament, I'd watch him, though. You never know what you're going to get and it's always entertaining.

[Simply Red]

http://sportsthenandnow.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Monfils-tennis.jpg

Monfils destroyed Nadal a few weeks back. He's capable of beating pretty much anybody if he keeps his head in the game...he has enormous potential. Potential that I doubt he'll ever reach because of his tactics, but potential nonetheless.

If I was going to choose any player to watch on any given day at a pro tennis tournament, I'd watch him, though. You never know what you're going to get and it's always entertaining.

I immediately thought - Buckwheat, Pookie from New Jack City and the Beer Looter Dude. I've watched this cat, i remember that booming serve.

[Simply Red]

Yannick Noah was a similar style and IIRC he's who started the 'through the legs' shot.

[Simply Red]

Yannick Noah was a similar style and IIRC he's who started the 'through the legs' shot.

he also rocked Le Coq Sportif gear, so that too made him dope in my young stupid mind, back then.

[KC_Connection]

I've never seen New Jack City.

[KC_Connection]

It's like 95 degrees there right now. That is probably helping Federer, who seems to be in better shape.

[KC_Connection]

Federer playing the big points better than Del Potro. So clutch. I don't know that Del Po gets a set anymore.

[KC_Connection]

What a shot for the break in the 3rd.

[Simply Red]

WHOOLLLLY SHIT!

[KC_Connection]

I'm hoping for a Novak/Fed final. If he keeps playing like this, that's what it will be.

[Simply Red]

that forehand, wound up, is fucking fire

[KC_Connection]

It's all over now. Del Potro could have played better (especially with his serve and limiting the unforced errors), but Federer played at an incredible level today. Not much he could have done to avert this victory.

[KC_Connection]

I don't even think he gives up one set. I saw the over/under games at 38 1/2 and I jumped all over it. I think we are looking at a 4, 6, and 3 match.
4, 3, and 2.

Outclassed.

[Simply Red]

"I was wrong about Del Potro"

[Simply Red]

Del Potro looked more tired than the Chiefs Defense just before halftime.

[DBOSHO]

Holy crap. Other tennis fans on this board?

[KC_Connection]

Berdych had a chance to win last night and even had a lead, but choked on the big points. It will be Federer vs. Nadal now in the semis.

[alpha_omega]

Just turned it on tonight. Sharapova is about to advance...and yes, she looks good doing it.

[alpha_omega]

Sharapova advances to the semis... 6-2, 6-3.

Semis tomorrow at 830 central

[Simply Red]

Andy Murray coming up, yawn

[Simply Red]

Murray is not exciting w/ the lack-luster lops.

[KC_Connection]

Fed vs. Nadal in an hour. Based on what I've seen this week, I'll pick Fed.

[Simply Red]

Fed vs. Nadal in an hour. Based on what I've seen this week, I'll pick Fed.

what time?

[NJChiefsFan]

3:30 am est.

I am taking Fed. He is my favorite non-american, maybe favorite in general, but I have no problem picking against him. I just think its his time right now to take Nadal. I would be down for putting money on him, but the lines have Fed favored by too much to get value. First time he has been favored over Nadal for a while.

[KC_Connection]

Federer with the early break. He's playing at a very high level right now...the backhand's better than I've ever seen it.

[Silock]

Well, he completely stopped doing what was working for him and let Nadal back in it.

[KC_Connection]

1-all. Federer's play has visibly dropped. Nadal's mental toughness and grinding has seemingly gotten to him once again. It has become a match very much like the one we've grown to expect between these two, and one in which I'd give Nadal an advantage.

[kcxiv]

Nadal is to fast for Federer. He's not getting any younger either.

[KC_Connection]

Fed earns the break in the 3rd. This is a big opportunity for him, he really needs this 3rd set.

[KC_Connection]

Nope, wasted it just like that.

[007]

Go Raph

[KC_Connection]

Nadal wins the clutch points to win the 3rd set TB, as he usually does. Another example of why their H2H in slams is so one-sided.

Going to be very tough for Federer to come back from this in this match.

[KC_Connection]

Federer had his chances to win the 4th set, but couldn't do it. Nadal wins in 4. He just has an incredible mental advantage over Federer that gets more obvious every time they play a big match. Confidence and mental toughness are powerful things in sport.

Djokovic and Murray tomorrow, then. If Novak wins that, I think he wins it all. If Murray does...I'd probably go with the experienced Nadal in the final.

[Silock]

Murray turning it around in the second set!

[KC_Connection]

Murray gets the break in the 3rd. He has the talent to play with Novak, but does he have it within his mind to do it? It has always been at this point that he's choked in the past.

[KC_Connection]

And Murray gives it right back...typical.

[Silock]

I don't know if he can pull it off, but it's better to watch than last night's was.

[KC_Connection]

Both of them are serving poorly, but I think a lot of that can be attributed to just how good their return games are. They are clearly the best in the world on return of serve.

[Silock]

This tenth game is awesome. The drop shot was pure genius.

[KC_Connection]

Andy Murray showing a lot more fight than usual. I'm surprised. He really believes he can win (and he can).

[KC_Connection]

Murray playing unbelievably well to get the break.

[Silock]

Holy shit! That was awesome effort.

[KC_Connection]

Wasted. To the tiebreak, then. Who's going to play the clutch points better?

[Silock]

This is such a fun match to watch.

[KC_Connection]

Murray's defense is incredible. Takes the 3rd set with some great shots at the right time. He's certainly never done anything like this in a big GS match before, so let's see how he reacts to having a lead.

[Silock]

Djoko is sunk if he can't find some fight.

[Silock]

Thing is, Nadal will eat him alive if he wins.

[KC_Connection]

Djoko is sunk if he can't find some fight.
Oh, he's trying pretty hard out there. They both are. Even to come back and create a tiebreak was pretty impressive the way Murray is playing.

[KC_Connection]

Thing is, Nadal will eat him alive if he wins.
If Murray is playing like this, he can beat anyone in the world. But I wouldn't be surprised to see him choke due to it being a final against one of the greatest players of all time.

Djokovic owns Nadal, so he'd probably win if that was the matchup. A long way to go, though, before that happens.

[KC_Connection]

What the fuck was that, Andy? Just smash that away.

[KC_Connection]

Early mental mistakes give Novak a break...but we've seen how much having a break matters in this match. Very little.

[KC_Connection]

The 3rd set was 88 minutes...insane.

[Silock]

Lol

Based on what I saw from Nadal last night, I don't think Murray can beat him playing like he is right now. Those brain cramps and bad decisions will be seized upon by Nadal. And Nadal can match the athleticism.

[Silock]

Oh, he's trying pretty hard out there. They both are. Even to come back and create a tiebreak was pretty impressive the way Murray is playing.

He has the break. He's just acting like the old Djoko that got all pissed and lost anyway. Being up a break kinda throws a wrench in that analysis, though.

[KC_Connection]

Lol

Based on what I saw from Nadal last night, I don't think Murray can beat him playing like he is right now. Those brain cramps and bad decisions will be seized upon by Nadal. And Nadal can match the athleticism.
Nadal didn't play that well last night...hasn't all tournament. The match was there for Federer to take if he hit the right shots and Fed predictably choked against him in the clutch like he has for the past five years.

Murray has always had the skill to beat any one of the three ahead of him. The mental side has always held him back.

[KC_Connection]

He has the break. He's just acting like the old Djoko that got all pissed and lost anyway. Being up a break kinda throws a wrench in that analysis, though.
Up a double break now. Murray's throwing away everything good that he did in the 3rd.

[KC_Connection]

Murray just completely tanked the 4th set. That was like 20 minutes. Saving it all for the 5th, I guess. I don't know how he could be done.

[KC_Connection]

Murray's not running in the first game in the 5th either.

[KC_Connection]

Now Novak is back to looking tired and Murray looks fit. This match is bizarre.

[KC_Connection]

Murray fights back when he looked down and out. Incredible.

[KC_Connection]

Incredible effort from both players, but Djokovic played bigger when it counted at the end. That of the longest matches ever played at the Australian Open (4 hours, 50 minutes)...it brought back memories of the Nadal/Verdasco 5 hour+ SF in 2009 in terms of how gruelling a test it was.

I went into this match thinking Murray would go fold easily when he faced the pressure, but it wasn't that way at all. He fought harder and was clutcher than I've ever seen him. That bodes well for him going forward in 2012. The talent is clearly there to beat the best and he appears to be finding the heart.

Djovokic vs. Nadal in the final. Novak owned him last season (winning all six times they met) and he'll have the mental advantage because of it, so I'd have to go with him despite how hard this match was for him. You can't ever count out Rafael Nadal, though.

[Silock]

Meltdown Murray. He did well to fight back at the end but not well enough.

[KC_Connection]

Meltdown Murray. He did well to fight back at the end but not well enough.
Had two break points at 5-5 and didn't play assertive enough, IMO. Hit one into the net on the first one and then allowed Djokovic to hit a massive winner on him down the line at 30-40.

Just remembered this video:

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/tg56itziNMI?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[KC_Connection]

After falling behind early, Novak Djokovic has unsurprisingly taken complete control of this match.

[kcxiv]

Bad match up for Nadal. Opposite of Him and Federer.

http://i.minus.com/ikgKk3pgqPWQM.gif

[KC_Connection]

Bad match up for Nadal. Opposite of Him and Federer.

http://i.minus.com/ikgKk3pgqPWQM.gif
There's Vlade Divac in the background.

Nadal's fighting right now to stay in it as only he can, but I think the mental advantage Novak has on him will be too much.

[kcxiv]

lol, yeah, i seen ole Vlade. Some dude on the neogaf forums keeps making gifs. So im stealing them.

[kcxiv]

If Novak wins this set. Its over for rafa.



Damn He came back from 40-0 to win the point.HUGE

[KC_Connection]

Wow, Nadal saves three straight break and essentially match points. And now the crowd is going nuts for him and it's raining.

[kcxiv]

http://i.minus.com/iCkeJWa7MDaR4.gif

http://i.minus.com/ibu81jppQwOkyO.gif

[KC_Connection]

I wonder if the delay hurts Djokovic...he was pretty much dominating outside of those few points.

[KC_Connection]

The crowd has really gone against Novak here.

[KC_Connection]

Nadal's defense on some of these shots is absurd.

[KC_Connection]

Unbelievable that Nadal just pulled that set out...Djokovic completely outplayed him but Nadal got by on sheer will power. This is setting up to be the longest match in the tournament's history.

[Earthbound]

Can't believe the level these guys are playing at. Tennis players are some of the best athletes in the world. Sprinting nonstop for 5 hours while hitting a ball over 100mph. Crazy.

[Earthbound]

I like both these guys a lot, but gotta say I'm pulling for Nadal. He has made some unbelievable shots tonight.

[KC_Connection]

Nadal is one of the most mentally tough athletes I've ever seen. He's been on the defensive nearly the entire match...lesser players would have faded away a long time ago.

[KC_Connection]

Djokovic looking really tired...kind of understandable, he's played two five-hour, gruelling tennis matches in 48 hours.

[Earthbound]

I don't understand how Djokovic can even stand at this point. He has to be absolutely exhausted.

[Earthbound]

Nadal has to rank up there as the most fit athlete in the world. Who can claim to be at his level of fitness?

[KC_Connection]

I don't understand how Djokovic can even stand at this point. He has to be absolutely exhausted.
I'd ask the same about Nadal, but we've seen him do this for seven years. He grinds opponents to victory every single time.

[Earthbound]

Nadal gets the break, but Novak isn't going to give it away.

[KC_Connection]

Nadal breaks. Unless Novak has something left, this is over.

[Earthbound]

Novak is a true champion. Nadal is just playing at a crazy level right now. Pure adrenaline.

[Earthbound]

How many times have they shown Novak's gf? It's gotta be in the hundreds.

[KC_Connection]

Wow, Novak did have something left. He breaks back.

[Earthbound]

These guys are both winners. I'm gonna feel for whoever loses.

[Earthbound]

He's in serious pain. Unbelievable tennis.

[notorious]

Who is the hottest chick left?


Pics required.

[kcxiv]

This match is so amazing wow

[KC_Connection]

Nadal is ridiculously clutch.

[kcxiv]

Im soooo fucking tired i havent slept yet lol.

[Earthbound]

Definitely one of the most physically challenging things I've ever seen.

[KC_Connection]

Definitely one of the most physically challenging things I've ever seen.
It's definitely the most physically challenging tennis match I've ever seen. There are so few easy points here.

Nadal just saved the match again...now the pressure's back on Djokovic.

[Earthbound]

Well that Isner-Mahut match was absolutely absurd but yea it's much different styles.

[KC_Connection]

I have no idea how Nadal is getting anything back at all of these defensive shots.

[KC_Connection]

Well that Isner-Mahut match was absolutely absurd but yea it's much different styles.
Tons of easy points in that match. Very few rallies like these two.

[Earthbound]

These are definitely 2 of the top 5 defensive players in the history of the sport. Maybe top 3?

[KC_Connection]

These are definitely 2 of the top 5 defensive players in the history of the sport. Maybe top 3?
Without question.

[Earthbound]

Tons of easy points in that match. Very few rallies like these two.

Yea, I agree. Very different situations.

[KC_Connection]

Nadal is the greatest fighter/defensive player in the game's history to me. He's won 10 majors (and counting) using this style.

[Earthbound]

Seriously, how many games do you think they can go without just completely falling over? Do you see this ending soon?

[KC_Connection]

I really have no idea who is going to win this match or when it's going to happen.

[Earthbound]

If I was forced to bet on it, I'd pick Nadal but this thing could go awhile.

[KC_Connection]

Nadal saves another break point...he's just so clutch.

[kcxiv]

Broke him. Novak seving forthe win