ATP Masters: Madrid 10/12-10/19/2008

[amenssen]

I haven't seen him play in a while and i must say i'm very suprised how roddick has played so far. this may be the most solid that i have ever seen him from the baseline

[rabbit]

I hate it. He looks weird.

Well, it's one less piece of clothing to fidget with...

[Vlad]

I haven't seen him play in a while and i must say i'm very suprised how roddick has played so far. this may be the most solid that i have ever seen him from the baseline

He is playing Robredo... he never even lost serve to him (outside of clay matches). I am sure he thinks he can beat him with eyes closed.

[amenssen]

He is playing Robredo... he never even lost serve to him (outside of clay matches). I am sure he thinks he can beat him with eyes closed.

never? how many matches? I suppose I'm grassping at straws hoping the rest of his game would at some point catch his serve

[mwoods]

"Shanghai hopeful __John Michael Gambill_______ saw his chances of qualifying take a hit after losing in the __pre-qualifying___ round to _un__ranked __Elisabth Shue________ in _.5___ sets. This makes the race much more interesting as nothing will be defined until 24 hours before the start of the event."


Sorry, I thought this was Mad Libs.

LOL. Side story: This made me think of the first professional tennis match I ever saw.

Scottsdale, 1999: A 21-year-old Jan Michael Gambill, fresh off of victories over Sampras and Agassi (Agassi by retirement), beats an 18-year-old Lleyton Hewitt 6-4 in the third set of the final.

I was so disappointed that I didn't get to see Sampras or Agassi, but I thought, oh well, maybe I'm getting to see a young up-and-comer who will one day be a star. I was half-right... ;)

[Vlad]

never? how many matches? I suppose I'm grassping at straws hoping the rest of his game would at some point catch his serve

Outside of clay, they played 6 matches on hard, grass and carpet and Robredo never broke Roddick's serve in those.

[amenssen]

Outside of clay, they played 6 matches on hard, grass and carpet and Robredo never broke Roddick's serve in those.

thanks

[GVGirl]

"Shanghai hopeful __John Michael Gambill_______ saw his chances of qualifying take a hit after losing in the __pre-qualifying___ round to _un__ranked __Elisabth Shue________ in _.5___ sets. This makes the race much more interesting as nothing will be defined until 24 hours before the start of the event."


Sorry, I thought this was Mad Libs.


Mad Libs! I loved those! :hyst:

[aedra1119]

Mad Libs! I loved those! :hyst:
GVG, your son is just too cute for words!

[dryrunguy]

If I hear "Roddick-u-lous!" one more time, I'm gonna hurl.

[GVGirl]

GVG, your son is just too cute for words!

Oh thank you! RafaBoy and I are hanging out in our room for a few while Guga-Man tries to win more money at the casino.

Meanwhile, I LOVE ESPN INTERNATIONAL!

[Vlad]

thanks

Make it 7 matches...

[bea26]

If I hear "Roddick-u-lous!" one more time, I'm gonna hurl.

Another banner moment today from the commentators.

Hey GVG, maybe your son could take over? He wouldn't even have to speak, just look cute. And not say Roddick-u-lous.

[dryrunguy]

Another banner moment today from the commentators.

Hey GVG, maybe your son could take over? He wouldn't even have to speak, just look cute. And not say Roddick-u-lous.

In fairness, Andy played very, very well.

But they said that! Twice! That I heard! I haven't heard such Andy worship since the last time Cliff and Pat called one of his matches!

[owendonovan]

If I hear "Roddick-u-lous!" one more time, I'm gonna hurl.

It's not very clever is it?

[rabbit]

I'd agree if Tsonga didn't scrape through his match by the skin of his teeth.

That's true, judging by the scores. I didn't watch the match. Tsonga seems to disagree though: "I maybe played exactly the same tennis (as in Australia). I won a tournament two weeks ago. I played well, like at the start of the year." Granted that his command of English is weak, but this seems like a bizarre thing to say after a 3-set victory against a qualifier.

Anyways, Federer had this to say: "He seems to be enjoying the tour; he's a great character for the game... I'm happy he won today so I get a chance to play him."

http://www.atptennis.com/1/en/2008news/madrid_wednesday2.asp

[bea26]

That's true, judging by the scores. I didn't watch the match. Tsonga seems to disagree though: "I maybe played exactly the same tennis (as in Australia). I won a tournament two weeks ago. I played well, like at the start of the year." Granted that his command of English is weak, but this seems like a bizarre thing to say after a 3-set victory against a qualifier.

Anyways, Federer had this to say: "He seems to be enjoying the tour; he's a great character for the game... I'm happy he won today so I get a chance to play him."

http://www.atptennis.com/1/en/2008news/madrid_wednesday2.asp

I saw the match and he should've lost. Allez?

[Ti-Amie]

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/sp/getty/fd/fullj.d467cd9404783bd629110aa16fbb5a1e/d467cd9404783bd629110aa16fbb5a1e-getty-tennis-atp-esp-madrid-roddick-robredo.jpg

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/sp/getty/ec/fullj.b307de5802ab67f03820d34572b07a66/b307de5802ab67f03820d34572b07a66-getty-tennis_-atp-esp-madrid-roddick-robredo.jpg
I couldn't decide so I posted both. :o

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20081015/capt.cps.nxi64.151008235533.photo02.photo.default-512x423.jpg

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20081015/capt.b781e980e92a4ed2b1c744eb0e154153.spain_tennis _madrid_masters_pw818.jpg

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20081015/capt.e67e5217f59a4cce95d56871276b7d4b.spain_madrid _tennis__masters_pw815.jpg

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20081015/capt.2bbe036df0734d99899903a151979153.spain_tennis _madrid_masters_vc834.jpg

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20081015/capt.b1274cf93ee74c81b57042bb5a534652.spain_madrid _tennis__masters_pw806.jpg

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/sp/getty/2d/fullj.8d6c6329ffe7c2f0df6d6400db985a5c/8d6c6329ffe7c2f0df6d6400db985a5c-getty-tennis-atp-esp-monfils.jpg

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20081015/capt.8b094277effe4ade9ca150e8fb787ca9.spain_madrid _tennis_masters_vc817.jpg

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20081015/capt.0a9ca7c6163f4ddc8aeb783b20ecc6a4.spain_madrid _tennis_masters_vc807.jpg

[verucasalt]

Cool Roddick photo.

That's the look I want Nalby to have.

[TalkAboutTennis]

ORDER OF PLAY – THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2008

PISTA CENTRAL start 11:00am
G Simon (FRA) vs [Q] R Ginepri (USA)
Not Before 12:30 PM
[7] D Nalbandian (ARG) vs [9] J Del Potro (ARG)
Not Before 2:00 PM
[10] S Wawrinka (SUI) vs F Lopez (ESP)
Not Before 4:00 PM
[1] R Nadal (ESP) vs [15] R Gasquet (FRA)
Not Before 8:00 PM
[16] J Tsonga (FRA) vs [2] R Federer (SUI)
[3] N Djokovic (SRB) vs [14] I Karlovic (CRO)

PISTA ALCALA start 12:00
[WC] P Andujar (ESP) / M Granollers (ESP) vs [3] L Dlouhy (CZE) / L Paes (IND)
Not Before 1:30 PM
M Cilic (CRO) vs [4] A Murray (GBR)
Not Before 3:00 PM
[8] A Roddick (USA) vs G Monfils (FRA)
L Arnold Ker (ARG) / D Nalbandian (ARG) vs [6] S Aspelin (SWE) / J Knowle (AUT)
[8] J Coetzee (RSA) / W Moodie (RSA) vs M Mirnyi (BLR) / T Robredo (ESP)
[1] B Bryan (USA) / M Bryan (USA) vs M Melo (BRA) / A Sa (BRA)

[Vlad]

Robby :(

[rabbit]

Come on, David! 4-6 first set and now a break down to Del Potro :(

[suliso]

Finally something is going my way... :rolleyes:

[Ti-Amie]

Delpo in straight sets? I missed it. What happened?

[Drop-shot]

Delpo in straight sets? I missed it. What happened?

I saw fragments. He just outplayed Nalby. Specially with his serve.

[verucasalt]

Looking at the stats, JMDP came to play, David not so much.

I really don't have the heart to see what this does to his ranking.

[Drop-shot]

Looking at the stats, JMDP came to play, David not so much.

I really don't have the heart to see what this does to his ranking.

Have you seen Titanic?

It's not going to be pretty.

[Vlad]

Little bit off topic, but just saw some of your predictions about this tournament and frankly I am shocked at how many people picked Nadal as the winner... especially given he had trouble with his back in first match and looked overall rusty. Not to mention low skidding hardcourt surface...

[verucasalt]

Have you seen Titanic?

It's not going to be pretty.

LOL. I just have to hope Nalby rises from the dead again next year.

[rabbit]

LOL. I just have to hope Nalby rises from the dead again next year.

Even last year, he didn't do too well in back-to-back tournaments. Maybe he will win Basel next week. He just should have started winning this week, not the last :p

[verucasalt]

Even last year, he didn't do too well in back-to-back tournaments. Maybe he will win Basel next week. He just should have started winning this week, not the last :p

That's right. I completely forgot he won last week. Nalby just has to march to beat of his own drummer. :rolleyes:

[patrick]

Nalby is using the indoor season preparing for Davis Cup.

[Ti-Amie]

Very well played and fast paced set from Andy and Gael. Gael made the one break enough and served out the first set 6-4.

[rabbit]

Nalby is using the indoor season preparing for Davis Cup.

Yeah, I'm sure it would suit him perfectly to win Stockholm, lose Madrid, win Basel, lose Paris, win DC :)

[Ti-Amie]

Roddick fought to deuce, maneuvered Gael out of position, came to the net and missed an easy shot. Racquet toss. No one to be angry at but himself there.

[Ti-Amie]

There have been some really nice rallies in this match. Roddick wins the latest one to go up 0-30.

[Ti-Amie]

No panicky play from Roddick. He buckled down and won the second set rather easily 6-3. He simply didn't allow Monfils to break him.

[verucasalt]

Lopez is doing very well this week.

[MaryS]

Shame Andy lost but great match.Really entertaining,some great play.Couldn't believe that metal sheet or whatever it was fell down,might have injured someone.
Hope Andy can rest up abit now & go onto get enough points to qualify,think he's in Lyon next.

[Vlad]

Too many missed opportunities from Gasquet. Good tactics though but couldn't execute on big points.

Keep it up in the second set.

[GVGirl]

Too many missed opportunities from Gasquet. Good tactics though but couldn't execute on big points.

Keep it up in the second set.


Vlad,

Who do you think would be a good coach for Gasquet, in addition to a sports psychologist?

[Vlad]

Vlad,

Who do you think would be a good coach for Gasquet, in addition to a sports psychologist?

He has good coach now. Agree about psychologist though. His biggest problem is because he wasted 2 years with his previous coach playing 15 feet behind the baseline. Since Wimbledon with new coach he is changing his game completely. It will take time and I am not expecting any decent results for some time because of that... but even his losses right now are more optimistic game wise than most of his wins last year.

[owendonovan]

Did anyone see the girl crying as she was getting her autograph from Nadal a la the girl from american idol who worshipped Sanjaya?

[owendonovan]

That little victory dance of Monfils is gonna be rubbing ppl the wrong way soon.

[Vlad]

That little victory dance of Monfils is gonna be rubbing ppl the wrong way soon.

It was a big win for him today. I have no problem with little dance.

[owendonovan]

It was a big win for him today. I have no problem with little dance.
I personally like the dance too, I just fear the dance might incite a prickly Safin to bonk Gael over the head with his racquet after dropping the match after being up a set and a break.

[Vlad]

I personally like the dance too, I just fear the dance might incite a prickly Safin to bonk Gael over the head with his racquet after dropping the match after being up a set and a break.



Actually, I remember reading Gael's interview after beating Marat in Cincy in 06 I think that he wanted to do little dance but then decided not to because he says he respects Marat too much. :)

[Ti-Amie]

Actually, I remember reading Gael's interview after beating Marat in Cincy in 06 I think that he wanted to do little dance but then decided not to because he says he respects Marat too much. :)

Oh really? So he dances after he beats AndyR but "respects" Mapat. :cool:

[Moose]

Actually, I remember reading Gael's interview after beating Marat in Cincy in 06 I think that he wanted to do little dance but then decided not to because he says he respects Marat too much. :)


Either that, or he was afraid of shards flying off a smashed racquet.

[Vlad]

Oh really? So he dances after he beats AndyR but "respects" Mapat. :cool:

Found it

Q. I saw the last couple games of the match. I assume the rest of it might have been the same. It was very exciting. The crowd was really into it. How exciting, dramatic, was the end of the match?
GAËL MONFILS: First, I think the first feeling I was feeling was to play my first tournament since Wimbledon. So feel comfortable with the (indiscernible), feel comfortable on the court, so it was good today.
Then after I get a lot of respect for Marat, so I think I not really make a real show like I want because when I was young I was watching him a lot. So I thought maybe I was a little bit shy maybe against him.
But right after the game I think we was playing a good game. I get a good hit today on my baseline, I was very strong on my baseline. I think I get a little bit (piece?) because I return every ball, and maybe that way I win and also close like this.
Then after, the last game was terrible because I think we are both under pressure, and now is no respect because it was too close. I think I need this emotion to play my best tennis.

08/15/06...

http://www.asapsports.com/show_interview.php?id=37656

[rabbit]

Hope this Tsonga-Federer match lives up to its promise...First time the two meet.

[Vlad]

Hope this Tsonga-Federer match lives up to its promise...First time the two meet.

I like them both a lot, I don't know who to root for.. :undecided:

[Ti-Amie]

Doesn't Ion Tiriac look like someone you just want to cuddle up to?

[dryrunguy]

Hey, Jo.... Trying to serve under the net is a REALLY low-percentage play.

[rabbit]

Doesn't Ion Tiriac look like someone you just want to cuddle up to?

Yes, very cuddly mustache.

3 double faults from Tsonga (!!!) + an entertaining point from Roger hands Roger the set, 6-4.

[Ti-Amie]

Tsonga df's the first set away ending a lousy service game from him. There was some great play in there though from both men.

[Danielle]

Okay, that game point with Tsonga trying to distract Fed was just too funny. It's impossible not to like this guy.

Sadly, that last break of serve seems to have broken him.

And, completely off topic here, can I just say the site looks FANTASTIC!!!! :cheesy:

[Ti-Amie]

That wind mill action was funny Danielle. Tsonga losing the first set was the end of the match for him.

[rabbit]

Sweet, short match from Roger. Too bad JWT couldn't give more of a fight. Roger against Del Potro, I'm sure, will be nothing like this...

[amenssen]

dissapointing effort from Tsonga far to many errors. I wonder what Tsonga would have done if roger had missed that overhead, though i thought the jumping was funny.

I continue to be amazed at how good Tsonga's hands are at the net, he hits some incredible volleys

[Miles]

I like them both a lot, I don't know who to root for.. :undecided:

Yeah, it's too bad Rafa doesn't play every ATP player in every single match in every single round of every single event. Then life would be so much easier for you, Vlad.

:violin:

[Ti-Amie]

The first set was very very good. I was hoping Jo wouldn't completely fall apart in the second set but the score speaks for itself.

[Moose]

And, completely off topic here, can I just say the site looks FANTASTIC!!!! :cheesy:


Seeing you back is fantastic too, my friend. We missed you!

[Danielle]

Seeing you back is fantastic too, my friend. We missed you!

Believe me, I've missed you all too...just all over the place these days. But every time I stop in, I'm reminded of why I need to make a point to check in here daily. You all make every day that much brighter. :cheesy:

And are they really playing a James Bond theme as Karlovic and Djokovic enter??

[Ti-Amie]

Believe me, I've missed you all too...just all over the place these days. But every time I stop in, I'm reminded of why I need to make a point to check in here daily. You all make every day that much brighter. :cheesy:

And are they really playing a James Bond theme as Karlovic and Djokovic enter??

Yes.

[amenssen]

Believe me, I've missed you all too...just all over the place these days. But every time I stop in, I'm reminded of why I need to make a point to check in here daily. You all make every day that much brighter. :cheesy:

And are they really playing a James Bond theme as Karlovic and Djokovic enter??

They've been playing some weird music, I heard the mario theme earlier :confused:

[rabbit]

The first set was very very good. I was hoping Jo wouldn't completely fall apart in the second set but the score speaks for itself.

Here's the best point of the first set, in the last game where Federer, "the world number 1" (:p), breaks:
6700wGy54Hk

[Vlad]

Sweet, short match from Roger. Too bad JWT couldn't give more of a fight. Roger against Del Potro, I'm sure, will be nothing like this...

Yep, looking forward to it. Del Potro is playing like top 5 player since July.

[Drop-shot]

IF JMDP beats Federer tomorrow he will rise to Hero Category.

[Vlad]

Karlovic's aces under, over 27 in this one?

[patrick]

Karlovic's aces under, over 27 in this one?

Under.

[amenssen]

did anyone else see that Karlovic has 6'10'' on his shorts?

[Danielle]

Here's the best point of the first set, in the last game where Federer, "the world number 1" (:p), breaks:
6700wGy54Hk

That was an awesome point. Amazed it got up online so fast! Or did you put it there rabbit? ;)

[Danielle]

did anyone else see that Karlovic has 6'10'' on his shorts?

Really?? Love it.

[rabbit]

That was an awesome point. Amazed it got up online so fast! Or did you put it there rabbit? ;)

No, Danielle :) There's this youtube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/thevidboy83) with a lot of Federer-related clips. There were even more earlier, but that account got deleted. I usually check the channel after a good match for clips, and this time I got lucky ;)

[amenssen]

wow Dr. Ivo takes the first. Djokovic doesn't look solid at all, missing a lot from the baseline

[suliso]

Karlovic ought to be banned.

[Vlad]

Karlovic ought to be banned.

lol



Ajde Ivo! :)

[Moose]

Karlovic ought to be banned.

Thank you. That's two votes. Anyone for a petition?

[Madame]

Thank you. That's two votes. Anyone for a petition?

I am
Being so tall is just not fair.:grrr:

[Miles]

Thank you. That's two votes. Anyone for a petition?

+3

[dryrunguy]

Hey. It's not every day that hear a commentator say the word "lovely" during a Karlovic match. This is an historic moment. We should appreciate it for what it is and what it means for the sport.


Nevermind the fact that the commentator was actually talking about Nole's return...

[patrick]

Karlovic ought to be banned.

Karlovic can not help that he is tall and can serve well.

[tinamarie]

I like Ivo Karlovic. So there, I said it. He is making the best of what he's got, you cant really blame him for that. Plus- on the human side-, he was incredibly nice to fans when I saw him play in Paris last year (when he beat James Blake).

[suliso]

Karlovic can not help that he is tall and can serve well.

Karlovic is not guilty, but ought to be banned anyway. :cool:


Seriously - one Ivo is tolerable, but what are they going to do with a dozen guys like him? Raise the net? Slow down the surface even more? Use bigger balls? I don't know, but something would have to be done and I don't think most of us would like the solution...

[amenssen]

here we go again :rolleyes:

[tinamarie]

Random: Did anyone else notice that the statistics from the ATP site live scores go wrong in tiebreaks? Seems like they accredit an ace or DF to whoever is serving for the next point. Like just now, it said: Djokovic-Karlovic 1:0, 19th ace Karlovic. really messes up the statistics.

[munchin]

Vamos Ivo (I know there's gotta be more Dr. Ivo fans on this board than just me)!!!!

[jjnow]

That was so boring.

Congrats to Ivo either way.

[Vlad]

Well done Ivo. He outplays Novak :)


I don't really have a problem with him now... He really added a lot to his serve, some nice net game and he moves better now.

[bea26]

Am I too sensitive now or does it seem like Djokovic's congratulations hugs at net have more to do with acting like the other person did something truly monumental by beating him? I don't think Ivo played the match of his life to take this one.

[amenssen]

:hyst: :hyst: :hyst:

[Ti-Amie]

ORDER OF PLAY Friday 10-17-08

PISTA CENTRAL
Matches Start At: 11:30 AM
Mariusz FYRSTENBERG (POL)/ Marcin MATKOWSKI (POL)
vs Daniel NESTOR (CAN)/ Nenad ZIMONJIC (SRB)
Starting at 2:00 PM
Gael MONFILS (FRA) vs Andy MURRAY (GBR)
Not Before 4:00 PM
Juan Martin DEL POTRO (ARG) vs Roger FEDERER (SUI)

Starting at 8:00 PM
Rafael NADAL (ESP) vs Feliciano LOPEZ (ESP)
followed by
Gilles SIMON (FRA) vs Ivo KARLOVIC (CRO)

PISTA ALCALA
Matches Start At: 1:00 PM
Pablo ANDUJAR (ESP)/ Marcel GRANOLLERS (ESP vs
Jeff COETZEE (RSA)/Wesley MOODIE (RSA)
followed by
Mahesh BHUPATHI (IND)/ Mark KNOWLES (BAH) vs
Simon ASPELIN (SWE)/Julian KNOWLE (AUT)
Not Before 5:00 PM
Bob BRYAN (USA)/Mike BRYAN (USA)
vs Jonas BJORKMAN (SWE)/Kevin ULLYETT (ZIM)

[munchin]

Karlovic is not guilty, but ought to be banned anyway. :cool:


Seriously - one Ivo is tolerable, but what are they going to do with a dozen guys like him? Raise the net? Slow down the surface even more? Use bigger balls? I don't know, but something would have to be done and I don't think most of us would like the solution...

I don't think anything would have to be done. Ivo's never so much as been in the top 10. It's not like he's unbeatable and, having seen that match with Andy Murray earlier in the year, I don't even think he's particularly unbreakable. Let the players play I say.

[patrick]

Random: Did anyone else notice that the statistics from the ATP site live scores go wrong in tiebreaks? Seems like they accredit an ace or DF to whoever is serving for the next point. Like just now, it said: Djokovic-Karlovic 1:0, 19th ace Karlovic. really messes up the statistics.

:yes:

[winston]

Karlovic is not guilty, but ought to be banned anyway. :cool:


Seriously - one Ivo is tolerable, but what are they going to do with a dozen guys like him? Raise the net? Slow down the surface even more? Use bigger balls? I don't know, but something would have to be done and I don't think most of us would like the solution...

Oh, I don't think we need to worry about that. Back when I started watching tennis, Pam Shriver was about as tall as it got on the women's side. And I don't recall her playing "Big Babe" tennis, even at that height. Look at the WTA now. Haven't needed to make any of those changes. Won't have to with the taller men either.

And yes, I'm a Dr. Ivo fan.

[bea26]

If people are okay with Roddick getting by a lot of the time on a big serve, they shouldn't have any problem with Ivo.

[verucasalt]

Looking at the stats, Ivo had 20 aces (Novak had 8). Wow.

And neither player had any doubles.

[suliso]

Oh, I don't think we need to worry about that. Back when I started watching tennis, Pam Shriver was about as tall as it got on the women's side. And I don't recall her playing "Big Babe" tennis, even at that height. Look at the WTA now. Haven't needed to make any of those changes. Won't have to with the taller men either.

And yes, I'm a Dr. Ivo fan.

:confused:

WTA is not relevant here. Women will never be able to serve each other off the court no matter how tall (and that is a good thing) and just hitting harder is not a problem for either men or women. But an entire set of just aces is not my cup of tea...

[Charlie02123]

Karlovic ought to be banned.

Thank you. That's two votes. Anyone for a petition?
:rolleyes: A number of commentators agreed a while back that 6'1" was about the perfect height for a tennis player. Ivo gets a better serve but much worse movement. Should we ban Ollie Rochus for not having to bend for low balls?


Am I too sensitive now or does it seem like Djokovic's congratulations hugs at net have more to do with acting like the other person did something truly monumental by beating him? I don't think Ivo played the match of his life to take this one.
:D

[bea26]

Should we ban Ollie Rochus for not having to bend for low balls?



LOL.

[GVGirl]

Vamos Ivo (I know there's gotta be more Dr. Ivo fans on this board than just me)!!!!


If people are okay with Roddick getting by a lot of the time on a big serve, they shouldn't have any problem with Ivo.

I like Andy and Dr. Ivo.

Have you seen a picture of Ivo and his wife? They are soo cute together, she's barely five feet tall and she's originally from Jamaica, I think. If I had time I'd look for that photo of Dr. and Ms. Ivo.

[oohsalmon]

People should be okay with whoever beats Djokovic...

[suliso]

People should be okay with whoever beats Djokovic...

Would that include Andy Murray?

[bea26]

Would that include Andy Murray?

That would work out great for my predictions.

I actually think Andy is maturing a lot faster than Novak. Though he may just not have had as many opportunities to stick his foot in his mouth.

[suliso]

That would work out great for my predictions.

I actually think Andy is maturing a lot faster than Novak. Though he may just not have had as many opportunities to stick his foot in his mouth.

For mine too, but I was wondering what salmon thinks about such a scenario ;)

[bea26]

For mine too, but I was wondering what salmon thinks about such a scenario ;)

I answer all his questions now.

[rabbit]

Am I too sensitive now or does it seem like Djokovic's congratulations hugs at net have more to do with acting like the other person did something truly monumental by beating him? I don't think Ivo played the match of his life to take this one.

I'm sure a lot of people would agree. He sort of seems extra gracious after the USO debacle. But I doubt he can keep it up for more than 3 months...Good for him if he can (but probably not so good for his tennis).

[GVGirl]

;BTW :gun: Djokovic! I had him going to the semis.. I need the points since my pal Jack is chasing me in the predictions contest!

This makes things easier for Rafa, so I won't complain any further.:lipsrsealed::)

[oohsalmon]

For mine too, but I was wondering what salmon thinks about such a scenario ;)

I abstain from Murray vs. Djokovic for my own mental health.


I answer all his questions now.

LOL.

I was wondering why I hadn't heard from Zuzana lately. Did you help her decide whether or not she should keep the baby?

[GVGirl]

I abstain from Murray vs. Djokovic for my own mental health.



LOL.

I was wondering why I hadn't heard from Zuzana lately. Did you help her decide whether or not she should keep the baby?


:hyst:



:lipsrsealed:

[Martini4me]

Unbelievable. I'm totally screwed now. I had Djokovic winning this both in predictions, and on Battle of the Boards. At least he's not on my East Meets West team. I thinkg

[Ti-Amie]

I've seen Mrs. Ivo. I was wondering where she was from.

[Jack]

;BTW :gun: Djokovic! I had him going to the semis.. I need the points since my pal Jack is chasing me in the predictions contest!

This makes things easier for Rafa, so I won't complain any further.:lipsrsealed::)

Fret not. There's like a 50 point spread between #3 and #4 in the prediction contest. The only way I could make it up is if you drop out, I think...

I don't mind Ivo. His game isn't the most fun to watch, but he's a really nice guy from all accounts. If what he's doing was simply a result of his height, the top ranked guys would all be 6'6" and taller. *cough*Isner*cough*

[Ti-Amie]

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/sp/getty/14/fullj.97438024b67033155c9509e9e5a573f8/97438024b67033155c9509e9e5a573f8-getty-tennis-atp-madrid-karlovic.jpg
RESULTS – THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2008

Singles – Third Round
[1] R Nadal (ESP) d [15] R Gasquet (FRA) 64 62
[2] R Federer (SUI) d [16] J Tsonga (FRA) 64 61
[14] I Karlovic (CRO) d [3] N Djokovic (SRB) 76(4) 76(5)
[4] A Murray (GBR) d M Cilic (CRO) 75 76(2)
[9] J Del Potro (ARG) d [7] D Nalbandian (ARG) 64 62
G Monfils (FRA) d [8] A Roddick (USA) 64 36 63
F Lopez (ESP) d [10] S Wawrinka (SUI) 64 64
G Simon (FRA) d [Q] R Ginepri (USA) 67(6) 64 76(6)

Doubles - Second Round

[1] B Bryan (USA) / M Bryan (USA) d M Melo (BRA) / A Sa (BRA) 61 64
[WC] P Andujar (ESP) / M Granollers (ESP) d [3] L Dlouhy (CZE) / L Paes (IND) 61 36 10-7
[6] S Aspelin (SWE) / J Knowle (AUT) d L Arnold Ker (ARG) / D Nalbandian (ARG) 76(7) 76(9)
[8] J Coetzee (RSA) / W Moodie (RSA) d M Mirnyi (BLR) / T Robredo (ESP) 67(5) 76(4) 10-8

[Drop-shot]

Thank you. That's two votes. Anyone for a petition?


+3

+4

[patrick]

+4

Don't be so mean to Dr. Ivo 'cuz he averages b/w 17-18 aces per match. Do you wish your fave averaged that many to go along with their normal set skill so their matches won't come down to a few points?

[dryrunguy]

I never realized there was so much love for Dr. Ivo! I knew he was despised, but I didn't know he was so loved. All people need love.

Hey, kirkus! Maybe we should add Ivo to the TAT banner! The only problem is, would he fit?

[rabbit]

Murray crushes Monfils, 6-2, 6-2. Federer-Del Potro to follow!

[Moose]

Hey, kirkus! Maybe we should add Ivo to the TAT banner! The only problem is, would he fit?

How about under the wheels of Esther's chair?

[Moose]

Murray crushes Monfils, 6-2, 6-2. Federer-Del Potro to follow!

Murray is maturing into the threat a lot of people saw. I'll admit that I missed it at first. Still can't call myself a fan, but Nole has best watch out, because Andy is gunning for his spot in the rankings.

I think Novak really needs the offseason, btw. I hope he has serious plans for downtime away from tennis and everyone in his camp. There just doesn't seem to be the joy in him that there was at the start of the year.

[Drop-shot]

Don't be so mean to Dr. Ivo 'cuz he averages b/w 17-18 aces per match. Do you wish your fave averaged that many to go along with their normal set skill so their matches won't come down to a few points?

It's his boring game that kills me. If he had 20 aces but other points were entertaining it would be something else.

[rabbit]

Murray is maturing into the threat a lot of people saw. I'll admit that I missed it at first. Still can't call myself a fan, but Nole has best watch out, because Andy is gunning for his spot in the rankings.

I think Novak really needs the offseason, btw. I hope he has serious plans for downtime away from tennis and everyone in his camp. There just doesn't seem to be the joy in him that there was at the start of the year.

Completely agree with you, both about Andy and Nole. I think Nole performs best in front of big crowds and TV cameras. Playing indoors in front of sparse muted crowds seems to depress him. Roger talked also in his interview yesterday about how easy it is to lose motivation playing indoors, not under the open sky and how you have to keep yourself on the alert. Nole still needs to learn how to do that.

[suliso]

Nole had a very weak post-USO season last year and this time doesn't look any more promising...

[Ti-Amie]

So far no court only feed this morning on AMS TV so I have to listen to the announcers.:mad:

[dryrunguy]

Nole had a very weak post-USO season last year and this time doesn't look any more promising...

I think there's one big difference, though, between the Nole of last year's fall season and the Nole of this year. Last year, he looked like he just didn't care. He didn't put forth a good effort. He looked tired and flat. This year, so far, at least he seems to want to win and put forth the effort. He's just making a few ill-timed errors at extremely crucial junctures and not capitalizing on the opportunities that present themselves. At least I'm seeing effort this year, which is a big difference from this time last year.

[luvs10s]

So far no court only feed this morning on AMS TV so I have to listen to the announcers.:mad:

Just do what I do, and turn the volume down so you can't actually make out what they're saying but can still hear the ball being hit. wink

[suliso]

I am not watching today, but AMS TV has decent commentators. Why would you want to turn them down?

[luvs10s]

Depending on who's playing, they can be heavily biased. I prefer my commentators to be impartial but that's just me.

[Ti-Amie]

I am not watching today, but AMS TV has decent commentators. Why would you want to turn them down?

They tend to hang from the gonads of their faves when they're playing. If they don't have a fave playing they're great.

[rabbit]

I can't watch the match today. Can someone please describe the match quality, interesting strategies, etc? Thanks!

[aedra1119]

I really like the TC commentators. They don't talk every second, and they still provide insightful commentary.

[rabbit]

OK, I see Roger just won in straight sets. Was it a case of Del Potro falling off, or did Federer do something new tactically?

[suliso]

OK, I see Roger just won in straight sets. Was it a case of Del Potro falling off, or did Federer do something new tactically?

I didn't see it, but according to reports JMDP was unable to deal with Roger's slice backhand.

[Scotty]

I can't watch the match today. Can someone please describe the match quality, interesting strategies, etc? Thanks!

Try to catch a replay, if you're a FedFan. Very impressive display against a quality opponent. JMDP started out with his serve en fuego, I think it was 8 aces in his first two service games? Roger really wasn't in a return game until JMDP served at 3-4 in the first. As in days of old, Federer seemed to get a read on the serves at an important time, returning more, and using his short slice backhand beautifully. He broke on a DF, then served out the set comfortably.

In the second, Roger was outmaneuvering JMDP pretty often. He mixed deep slices with little pace (particularly on returns) with short, low shots, came in some, and blasted some fab forehands. Del Potro did try hitting more to Roger's forehand side, and came in a few times successfully. But it was too little, too late. Roger broke for a second time on his third match point.

[Charlie02123]

Bjorkman/Ullyett just won the first set over the Bryans 6-4

[rabbit]

I didn't see it, but according to reports JMDP was unable to deal with Roger's slice backhand.


Try to catch a replay, if you're a FedFan. Very impressive display against a quality opponent. JMDP started out with his serve en fuego, I think it was 8 aces in his first two service games? Roger really wasn't in a return game until JMDP served at 3-4 in the first. As in days of old, Federer seemed to get a read on the serves at an important time, returning more, and using his short slice backhand beautifully. He broke on a DF, then served out the set comfortably.

In the second, Roger was outmaneuvering JMDP pretty often. He mixed deep slices with little pace (particularly on returns) with short, low shots, came in some, and blasted some fab forehands. Del Potro did try hitting more to Roger's forehand side, and came in a few times successfully. But it was too little, too late. Roger broke for a second time on his third match point.

Thanks! Good to hear :) Especially good that the forehand was clicking. And I guess low slices with little pace were smart plays against a tall opponent like JMDP.

[amenssen]

I only saw the second set, but it seemed just like whenever Del Potro had a chance to captilize he failed to do so. Twice in the match he double faulted on break point. And it seemed like whenever he had a chance to take advantage durring a point he got timid. A impressive display from roger thou

[Ti-Amie]

Replay of the US Open final coming up between Federer and Murray.

[elisat]

Any of you watching Rafa/Feli match? Toni Nadal just said that Rafa has a shoulder problem and he is not even sure he will be able to finish the match.

[rabbit]

Any of you watching Rafa/Feli match? Toni Nadal just said that Rafa has a shoulder problem and he is not even sure he will be able to finish the match.

:(

Random info: Toni Nadal speaks German.

[dryrunguy]

Any of you watching Rafa/Feli match? Toni Nadal just said that Rafa has a shoulder problem and he is not even sure he will be able to finish the match.

I'm watching. Haven't seen any sign of a problem yet. He opened with a love hold.

[elisat]

:(

Random info: Toni Nadal speaks German.
What do you mean?

[rabbit]

What do you mean?

I meant Toni Nadal can speak in German. For example, go to 0:57 of this clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCNz7JNK07w. I was pretty surprised.

[elisat]

I meant Toni Nadal can speak in German. For example, go to 0:57 of this clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCNz7JNK07w. I was pretty surprised.

Ops, sorry, I thought it had some sort of second meaning :o

[elisat]

Well, he is not showing big signs of the shoulder injury except weaker than usual serves. First set Nadal.

[rabbit]

Rafa seems to be playing very well! 6-4 first set in under 40 minutes.

[Vlad]

Well, he is not showing big signs of the shoulder injury except weaker than usual serves. First set Nadal.

I don't necessary see any weaker serves... I think he is serving with his usual pace and barely losing any points on his serve.. I think he lost total of 5 points.. I know Lopez is not a great returner or baseline player but still..

[elisat]

I don't necessary see any weaker serves... I think he is serving with his usual pace and barely losing any points on his serve.. I think he lost total of 5 points.. I know Lopez is not a great returner or baseline player but still..

Well he is serving at 160km/h when this season he was doing averages of 180 km/h and up.

[elisat]

Rafa has just clutched. Breaks to love ... awesome 4 points. Now he serves for the match.

[Vlad]

Well he is serving at 160km/h when this season he was doing averages of 180 km/h and up.

Maybe you right, I was just saying that visually his serves seem to be ok in terms of pace. He usually varies his serves well and hits few off pace in all his matches.

[elisat]

Rafa won. Now Simon or Karlovic in semis :shocked:

[jjnow]

Karlovic V. Simon is going to be quite a contrast.

Vertically challenged unite. Go Gilles!

[suliso]

Rafa won. Now Simon or Karlovic in semis :shocked:

I bet he would prefer Simon.

[Miles]

So far Karlovic has won all four of his sets 7-6.

:handjob:

[owendonovan]

I bet he would prefer Simon.

That sounds dirty for some reason.

[oohsalmon]

So far Karlovic has won all four of his sets 7-6.

:handjob:

:shocked:

[elisat]

Karlovic breaks Simon and right after Simon breaks back !!!! Amazing

[elisat]

Karlovic breaks Simon and right after Simon breaks back !!!! Amazing

And Karlovic breaks Simon again :confused:

[amenssen]

back on pace for 7-6 :rolleyes:

[elisat]

And now Simon breaks Karlovic again

[Miles]

Talk about a WTA hot mess, this compares to the best of those matches.

[Madame]

Allez Gilles ! :bleus:

[rabbit]

Congrats Rafa on the Year End #1!! :cheesy: Very very well deserved!

(but not for long :p)

[jjnow]

Yeah Gilles!

One more set!

[munchin]

I never think of Gilles Simon as being among my favorite players, but every time I see him play, I can't help but note how much I enjoy watching him. Play, that is.

[elisat]

Congrats Rafa on the Year End #1!! :cheesy: Very very well deserved!

(but not for long :p)

Just read that he still needs one more win to secure the #1 spot.

[Madame]

I never think of Gilles Simon as being among my favorite players, but every time I see him play, I can't help but note how much I enjoy watching him. Play, that is.

The french touch ! :cheesy:

[elisat]

Impressive lobs by Simon.

[amenssen]

I just looked at my live feed and realize that I had completely zoned out for 5 games, I don't remember what happened. Ivo should be a used as a medicine for insomniacs

[rabbit]

Karlovic can play from the baseline.

For what it's worth, my opinion of Karlovic has changed in the last few months. He has much more than just a good serve. He hits decent volleys and can think on the court. But anyways, my favorite part of his game is not his serve but his pre-service motion. When he bounces the ball before serving, he lets the ball bounce up to above his hand and then drop in to his hand, after which he starts serving. I started copying it couple of weeks ago, and once you start doing it, it gets a bit addictive :p

[Danielle]

Great challenge by Simon for the break!

[bea26]

Total collapse in progress from someone who was up 3-0.

[manolo]

Impressive lobs by Simon.

He's lobbing Karlovic????

[manolo]

Karlovic can play from the baseline.

But anyways, my favorite part of his game is not his serve but his pre-service motion.

Isn't that a back-handed compliment?

[elisat]

He's lobbing Karlovic????

Yep, and successfully at east 3 times ...

[elisat]

If I am not wrong, Simon is now 10th in the race 4 points less than Blake. Pretty impressive. Congratulations to the French taters

[patrick]

When is the last time Ivo lost serve 3 times after he led by a break in the set?

Simon challenge in the 3rd set, IMO, was a little late after he hit the ball in the net but the umpire let him challenged and Ivo forehand did sail long.

However, what domination in each tiebreaker by Gilles to win the match.

That smoking forehand return to start the deciding tiebreaker won the match for Gilles as he was able to accelerate to the finish.

[mmmm8]

RESULTS
http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20081017/capt.92d4f5e7a02e45fdb7e10a5a8a2bbad2.spain_tennis _madrid_masters_pw816.jpg
Gilles Simon
Singles - Quarterfinals
[1] R Nadal (ESP) d F Lopez (ESP) 64 64
[2] R Federer (SUI) d [9] J Del Potro (ARG) 63 63
[4] A Murray (GBR) d G Monfils (FRA) 62 62
G Simon (FRA) d [14] I Karlovic (CRO) 76(1) 46 76(2)[/COLOR]



Doubles - Quarterfinals
[7] M Fyrstenberg (POL) / M Matkowski (POL) d [COLOR="darkorchid"][2] D Nestor (CAN) / N Zimonjic (SRB) 63 36 11-9
[4] M Bhupathi (IND) / M Knowles (BAH) d [6] S Aspelin (SWE) / J Knowle (AUT) 63 75
[8] J Coetzee (RSA) / W Moodie (RSA) d [WC] P Andujar (ESP) / M Granollers (ESP) 76(5) 63
[5] J Bjorkman (SWE) / K Ullyett (ZIM) d [1] B Bryan (USA) / M Bryan (USA) 64 64

[Ti-Amie]

Saturday October 18,2008 Order of Play

Pista Central
1.30pm Start
Andy Murray(GBR) vs. Roger Federer(SUI)
4pm Start
Rafael Nadal(ESP) vs. Gilles Simon(FRA)
Jonas Bjorkman/Kevin Ullyett(SWE/ZIM) vs. Mahesh Bhupathi/Mark Knowles(IND/BAH)

Pista Alcala
3pm Start
Jeff Coetzee/Wesley Moodie(RSA) vs. Mariusz Fyrstenberg/Marcin Matkowski(POL)

[bea26]

Watching Fed/Tsonga now - that little dance/waving thing tsonga did to try and distract fed when fed had an easy overhead was so cute! I heart him.

[missinandre]

Okay. I'm like WTF FED!! Triple break points for Andy in the THIRD? Crap!

[missinandre]

haha and Murray loses every single one of them!

[missinandre]

I have to say....it's more of a "wow! Fed!" than a "you dummy Andy!" moment and Fed holds serve after washing away triple break points!

I love tennis!

[Jessie181]

Damn it, Fed!!!111

I need you to win this match for predictions!

[Foxykhat]

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO, FED!!!

Foxy

[Jessie181]

Suckage. Fed loses 6-3, 3-6, 7-5

[Foxykhat]

Oh well! I picked Andy to win anyway and he did play well.

Lots of supports for him in Madrid.

Foxy

[Jessie181]

Oh well! I picked Andy to win anyway and he did play well.

Lots of supports for him in Madrid.

Foxy



I definitely can't win Gold in the run to the masters contest, I think, since Kayce has Murray winning it all. :(

[Foxykhat]

I definitely can't win Gold in the run to the masters contest, I think, since Kayce has Murray winning it all. :(

As much as I have him in the final, I'm still not happy he beat Fed :mad::mad::mad:. Fed had a chance earlier on to break but could not and he came back from 15/40 on serve but stupid shot selection at times did him in.

Nadal will kill Murray.;)

Foxy

[kayce]

I definitely can't win Gold in the run to the masters contest, I think, since Kayce has Murray winning it all. :(

Actually, Kayce has Nadal winning.


As much as I have him in the final, I'm still not happy he beat Fed :mad::mad::mad:. Fed had a change earlier on to break but could not and he came back from 15/40 on serve but stupid shot selection at times did him in.

Nadal will kill Murray.;)

Foxy


:) Way to go Andy!!!

[Jessie181]

As much as I have him in the final, I'm still not happy he beat Fed :mad::mad::mad:. Fed had a change earlier on to break but could not and he came back from 15/40 on serve but stupid shot selection at times did him in.

Nadal will kill Murray.;)

Foxy
I only watched the last two games (I was watching the scoreboard, and I only realized that there would probably be a livestream when there was only two games left in the match :rolleyes: silly Jessie), but Roger had his chances :undecided: oh well.

gawd, I hope you're right.

Actually, Kayce has Nadal winning.




:) Way to go Andy!!!

aaah. You still have a few more correct predictions than I do :mad::p:moon:

[morct]

Very well done to Andy Murray, just caught the final set but it was fun to watch.:)

[Drop-shot]

All hail Murray, the Fed-slayer :notworthy:

:cheesy:

[jjnow]

Go Gilles!

[Madame]

:bleus::bleus::bleus:
Yes !!!! Gilles breaks in the second, serving to get even one set all !!!:bleus2:

[missinandre]

All hail Murray, the Fed-slayer :notworthy:

:cheesy:

Fed slayer? That's not saying much. Even James Blake has beaten Fed this year so...I guess Andy is...on average....just like everyone else now! :)

Nadal will kill Murray and I honestly believe if Simon can beat Nadal, he can take care of Andy. Madrid is becoming very interesting!

[missinandre]

break point nadal
and....he gives it away.

[missinandre]

Nadal and Gilles.....guys, that ball is wacky and crazy! It is going all over the place and it's bounce is so funky

And...another break chance for Nadal

[missinandre]

Nadal gets the break! VAMOS! :)

[Scotty]

VERY high quality in these last two games. Each breaks, and we're back level at 5-5.

Rafa is pumped up. Betcha he runs with the momentum, and finishes it off in straight sets.

[Madame]

This tennis is just great :cheesy:

[Scotty]

eek, flubbed swing/volley from Simon on BP.

[missinandre]

This is ........PAINFUL to watch! Gilles is awesome

[missinandre]

Very nice net play from Gilles

[missinandre]

LOVED that volley! They are both putting in 110%.....

[missinandre]

oooooooooh Rafa! The overhead!

[amenssen]

this is amazing, I'm so impressed by Gilles I was expecting like a 6-2 second set, he has been very good

[Madame]

and break !!!!! :bleus:

[Scotty]

VERY high quality in these last two games. Each breaks, and we're back level at 5-5.

Rafa is pumped up. Betcha he runs with the momentum, and finishes it off in straight sets.

Simon breaks, after a marathon game. Shows what I know.

[missinandre]

Gilles is exhausted...he gets the break but the challenge will be there for him to hold serve....

[amenssen]

wow

[luvs10s]

I :love: :tennis:

[owendonovan]

Theres some good stuff going down in this match!!!

[nelslus]

Simon breaks, after a marathon game. Shows what I know.

Won the battle. Gotta think he's gonna lose the war now, though.

[craighickman]

Rafa is playing break points like Andy Roddick in this match.

[owendonovan]

Nadal is actually looking a little spent himself.

[elisat]

Rafa has only converted 3 of 18 BP!!!!

[aedra1119]

Rafa is 3/19 on break point chances. So many long rallies and Simon is winning his fair share of them.

Wow, what a hold by Gilles!

[owendonovan]

OUT EFFING RAGEOUS!!!!

[craighickman]

Gilles is a cagey player. And he's deadly on the run.

If Rafa wins this match will he secure the No. 1 ranking for the end of the year?

He's seems extremely tense, even before he got tired.

[Scotty]

that last game was ridiculous (in a good way). After 15 minutes, Simon had saved 6 BPs to hold.

And it's only 1-1.

[elisat]

Gilles is a cagey player. And he's deadly on the run.

If Rafa wins this match will he secure the No. 1 ranking for the end of the year?

He's seems extremely tense, even before he got tired.

With Roger loosing to Murray, Rafa has already secured the year-end #1.

[amenssen]

unbelievable tennis, though I think Gilles is tiring, every match he has played has gone three, I think is only a matter of time before he just can't do this anymore, but for the moment this is amazing

[ptmcmahon]

Wow...I saw this in second set and figured it was over...now that baby is asleep, I might get to watch live tennis for the first time since USO!

[elisat]

Rafa is making so many UE ....

[elisat]

OHHHHhh Finally Rafa breaks, I thought I would never see that.

[jjnow]

I don't remember seeing Rafa make so many errors.

[craighickman]

With Roger loosing to Murray, Rafa has already secured the year-end #1.

Thanks. Then Rafa is just being erratic today. Can't close this match out at all.

[elisat]

I can't believe he is broken right back

[aedra1119]

Wow. Gilles breaks back. He's not going anywhere.

[owendonovan]

That's it, I'm totally done with Gasquet as my favorite male French player. I'm all Simon now.

[jjnow]

What is it Megan said the other French players call Simon? Poussin? (Hatchling?)

It's hard not to root for a small guy fighting so hard. Rafa fans excluded, of course.

[missinandre]

go rafa go! go rafa go!

Regardless of the outcome of this match....Simon is fast earning a lot of respect from me OMG that play from him! And rafa standing there watching the ball go by...

[Vlad]

That's it, I'm totally done with Gasquet as my favorite male French player. I'm all Simon now.

So, you are saying French best hope right now is not Gasquet, Monfils, Tsonga but Simon?

It's looking more and more like it...

[owendonovan]

Why is it that the only men they show in the stands have to be some sports celebrity, but the random pretty women they show are just that, random. They never just show a smoking hot guy because he's smoking hot but they show smoking hot women just because they're smoking hot?

[luvs10s]

Why is it that the only men they show in the stands have to be some sports celebrity, but the random pretty women they show are just that, random. They never just show a smoking hot guy because he's smoking hot but they show smoking hot women just because they're smoking hot?

Straight Cameramen wink

[Madame]

We french are full of ressources :cheesy:
take a frenchie away there is allways another one hidden behind !
:bleus::bleus::bleus:

[amenssen]

Why is it that the only men they show in the stands have to be some sports celebrity, but the random pretty women they show are just that, random. They never just show a smoking hot guy because he's smoking hot but they show smoking hot women just because they're smoking hot?

because the camera people are all straight men, I would assume. Never thought of that, that sucks

[jjnow]

Why is it that the only men they show in the stands have to be some sports celebrity, but the random pretty women they show are just that, random. They never just show a smoking hot guy because he's smoking hot but they show smoking hot women just because they're smoking hot?
I think I know who you're talking about, and by the looks of it, and her good seat, I was wondering if maybe she is somebody famous. The camera panned to show her practically while Rafa was in mid-serve.

We can ask elisat!

Is the gorgeous blonde woman sitting near the court wearing all black anybody special, elisat? Or just a random woman who happens to be really hot?

[ptmcmahon]

Why is it that the only men they show in the stands have to be some sports celebrity, but the random pretty women they show are just that, random. They never just show a smoking hot guy because he's smoking hot but they show smoking hot women just because they're smoking hot?

Because 95% of what they are showing is Nadal and Simon? (I'll leave it up to the rest of you to debate how smoking hot they are.)

[Vlad]

Some of the toughest crowds of any tournament this one.

[Scotty]

TATeurs,

Your mission:

Become TV camarapeople (bonus points if you become a producer, who CALLS which shots get televised) for important tennis tournaments.

Find smoking hot guys in the crowd, and put them on camera (you can show some women, too, but let's go for a little balance).

Extra credit for doing this at a tournament in a hot climate and finding smoking hot SHIRTLESS guys.

[Madame]

Have you seen Gilles' smile. I really like it. He is having fun there ! :bleus:

[verucasalt]

Time to hunker down, Rafa.

[aedra1119]

Gilles serving for the match! His retrieving in this match has been amazing.

[amenssen]

oh my break for Simon

[craighickman]

Gilles serving for the match! His retrieving in this match has been amazing.

Yes.

And Rafa hasn't been flattening out his shots much at all.

[missinandre]

Rafa! I cannot watch this anymore. It is hard to see first Fed and now...almost Nadal fall...on the same day...one right after another.....:(

Oh my ....this is TENSE

[luvs10s]

I have to remember to breathe :)