By Sandra Harwitt
Another dreary day of rain at Flushing Meadows, much to the frustration of all – players, media, fans, etc.
The only silver lining is that they were able to complete the remaining men’s quarterfinal between Rafael Nadal and Fernando Gonzalez. We can thank Gonzo for forgetting he was supposed to put up a fight. Instead, he allowed Nadal to close out the win in 33 ½ minutes – the conclusion of the second set tiebreaker took only 90 seconds as Rafa won all four points.
The bad news is I just went outside – it’s nearly 3:30 in the afternoon -- and my weather instincts tell me they could be hard-pressed to get in anymore tennis today. (Okay, more than a few hours have been clocked off since then, it’s now 8:30 p.m. and we’re still waiting, and it’s still raining!)
They walked out on the court at 9:11 p.m. -- tennis will be played and the women are warming up -- it's been a long, boring wait!
At the very least with the women and the men into the semifinals the predicted good weather for the next two days means the Open should close its door on the singles competition on Monday, although the women’s doubles final could be held over until Tuesday – UGH! But with Nadal’s quarterfinal win tucked into his gear bag today, and if the weather the next two days is better, the singles championships should end on Monday.
The juniors are on schedule as they took them north to Port Chester to play indoors at the Sound Shore Indoor Tennis Club. The big news on the junior front is that Ohio State’s Chase Buchanan, 18, not only unseeded, but playing on a wildcard, is into the boys’ final. Buchanan, who won the U.S. National 18s at Kalamazoo this summer, will play 16-year-old Bernard Tomic of Australia, who already owns a Grand Slam trophy from the 2008 Australian Open.
Two really nice girls’ – 11th-seeded Heather Watson of Great Britain and unseeded Yana Buchina of Russia – will tangle for the girl’s title.
This entire week I’ve been charmed by Watson, who is the only person I’ve ever met that I know of that comes from Guernsey, a small island in the English Channel that is closer to France than its own country’s mainland. I recently read the Guernsey Literary Club and Potato Peel Pie Society and now have a keen interest in visiting the place. I had no idea that the Channel Islands were occupied by the Germans during World War II, which was when the novel took place. Watson paints a beautiful view of her hometown, although she’s been training at the Nick Bollettieri Academy since she was 11 and loves the beach and American shopping malls.
But back to the controversial subject of the day, which actually is not particularly applicable to this U.S. Open, but is interesting to ponder.
The U.S. Open is the only Grand Slam that does not keep to the every-other-day-off pattern for the players when it gets down to the wire. At the other three Slams, they play the men’s semifinal on Friday and the men’s final on Sunday, the women’s semifinals on Thursday and the women’s final on Saturday.
At the U.S. Open it’s different – weather permitting. They play the women’s semis on Friday and final on Saturday night, the men’s semifinals on Saturday and the final on Sunday late afternoon.
The problem with this scenario is that it works against the players in terms of producing the best tennis possible. The day of rest in-between the semifinals and finals enables the players to recharge, most especially the men, who can be playing five-set matches.
In case you’re not aware, it’s all about TV and what host network CBS wants to air and when it wants to air it.
The players are not approving of the way the U.S. Open does it and they have always campaigned for a change to how it’s done at the other Slams.
But it does seem that this is one argument where the players don’t rule as host TV sponsors come with big fat check books, which help fund the big fat checks the players receive.
This is a good debate to contemplate and everyone should feel free to weigh in on their thoughts.
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As for the last blog's issue to ponder, here's a statement released from Lucy Garvin, Chairman of the Board and Pesident, USTA, regarding the exploration of a roof for Arthur Ashe Stadium.
"The USTA actively investigating retractable roof concepts for Arthur Ashe Stadium as part of a broader exploration of long-range planning needs for the U.S. Open. However, any decisio regarding a potential roof must be balanced with the USTA's overall mission of growing the sport of tennis at every level in the U.S. For this reason, we will take the time to make the right decision, and will not hold ourselves to a specific timetable."
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U.S. Open History For September 12, 2009
In 1936, Fred Perry becomes the first non-American to win three U.S. Open titles. Interestingly, Perry would soon move from Great Britain to the United States, change his citizenship and fight with the Yanks during World War II.
In 1981, Tracy Austin wins her second and last U.S. Open title over first time U.S. Open finalist Martina Navratilova.
In 1998, Californian Lindsay Davenport wins her first Grand Slam trophy by beating Martina Hingis in the final. Davenport is the first American-born women to seize the title since Chris Evert won her last of six U.S. Open titles in 1982.
In 2004, Roger Federer, who is hoping to win his sixth consecutive U.S. Open title this year, won his first of that run with a straight-set victory over Lleyton Hewitt.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Friday, September 11, 2009
Should The U.S. Open Build A Roof?
By Sandra Harwitt
For many people, the fact that the skies cried rain today in New York was appropriate as we marked the eighth anniversary of the World Trade Center attacks. It was dreary and somber, a perfect setting as people called out the names of all those who died on 9/11 in memorial services.
At the U.S. Open, the inclement weather shut down the tennis, leaving many players hanging about until they were told they had to wait no more.
Rafael Nadal, who spent much of the afternoon playing Fosbal with friends, was the last to get dismissed as tournament officials hoped they might get a window of opportunity to complete his match.
Alas, that didn’t happen and everything was put off until tomorrow.
So now the line-up is all messed up and it is written in stone that we will be watching the men’s final on Monday for a second consecutive year.
First on tap for Saturday is the conclusion of the last men’s quarterfinal match between Nadal and Fernando Gonzalez, which Nadal leads by one set and is serving at 3-2 in the second set tiebreaker. That will be followed by a men’s doubles final, and then the Caroline Wozniacki and Yanina Wickmayer semifinal. The big show – the semifinal between Serena Williams and Kim Clijsters -- will slide right in to what was supposed to be the women’s final.
On Sunday, the men will play the semifinals during the day and the women’s final will play in the evening at a time to be determined.
And the men will get their chance to crown a champion on Monday – the time to still be determined. And the women’s doubles final will also take place on Monday.
And, of course, all of that is dependent upon Saturday featuring clear skies.
So what’s going to be the big topic of conversation? Obviously, when will the U.S. Open step up and construct a convertible-topped roof on the stadium to keep play going?
The Australian has had it for years – they have it on their two main courts. Wimbledon unveiled their roof this year, so the place most revered for being steeped in history is now cutting edge.
The French Open apparently has plans for a new stadium avec roof (avec -- that’s with, in French), which would be off-campus and connected from the park across the street.
But the U.S. Open – no plans seem in the works yet.
And I’m not really that disturbed about it, to be honest, because part of me just can’t wrap my head around a Grand Slam being played indoors.
I perfectly understand the advantage of a stadium with a roof – the tennis goes on, matches get concluded, fans are happy, and part of the players are smiling.
But there’s an unfair element to the roof and it can’t be denied.
A Grand Slam is supposed to be an outdoor tournament. Once you close the roof it becomes something very different – perfect conditions.
Once you close the roof, the top players get to keep to the intended schedule of one day off as they are normally scheduled for the show court at an event. The other folks? Well, they sit around and wait for the rain to stop and play hectic schedules and make-up matches.
That makes a Grand Slam two distinctly different events.
An interesting aside, from an atmosphere perspective, the Australian roof never evoked a strong opinion from me. Presumably, as Australia always had the indoor component from my first visit Down Under in 1990, it didn’t bother me from how it felt to watch a match indoors. I still have reservations about the fairness of closing the roof at an outdoor event, but being under the roof still creates a buzz in Oz.
At Wimbledon, however, when they closed the roof, it somehow lost that special Wimbledon feeling – the atmosphere just deflated and it just felt like anyplace. Some, I’m sure, will disagree with me. But some will have the same observations. It just felt like any stadium anywhere you go.
All that said, it’s the 21st Century and it’s hard not to imagine that sooner than later there will be a roof on Arthur Ashe stadium, even if the USTA hasn’t revealed any concrete plans. Time will tell.
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Just an observation – Somehow, Roger Federer always lands on the right side of the draw, the side that is always on schedule and not hindered by the rain. As one of my fav colleagues, George Vescey of the New York Times, said when I mentioned this ideal phenomenon – “It’s good to be Roger!”
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U.S. Open History On September 11, 2009
In 1977, Guillermo Vilas, the Bull of the Pampas, wins his U.S. Open crown in a four-set match over Jimmy Connors. The Open was on clay back then and the Argentine owned the surface, so much so that he won the final set at love. It was the last ever U.S. Open match played at the grand West Side Tennis Club in Forest Hills.
In 1988, Mats Wilander wins the longest men’s final in U.S. Open history, a five-setter in four hours, 55 minutes. The match comes with a bonus beyond the trophy and the check – Wilander also strips his final opponent, Ivan Lendl, of the No. 1 ranking, which he claims for his very own.
In 1994, an unseeded man claims the title – the first unseeded man since Fred Stolle of Australia did so in 1966. The champion – Andre Agassi, whose ranking had dipped, but thirst for Grand Slam trophies was still very much alive.
For many people, the fact that the skies cried rain today in New York was appropriate as we marked the eighth anniversary of the World Trade Center attacks. It was dreary and somber, a perfect setting as people called out the names of all those who died on 9/11 in memorial services.
At the U.S. Open, the inclement weather shut down the tennis, leaving many players hanging about until they were told they had to wait no more.
Rafael Nadal, who spent much of the afternoon playing Fosbal with friends, was the last to get dismissed as tournament officials hoped they might get a window of opportunity to complete his match.
Alas, that didn’t happen and everything was put off until tomorrow.
So now the line-up is all messed up and it is written in stone that we will be watching the men’s final on Monday for a second consecutive year.
First on tap for Saturday is the conclusion of the last men’s quarterfinal match between Nadal and Fernando Gonzalez, which Nadal leads by one set and is serving at 3-2 in the second set tiebreaker. That will be followed by a men’s doubles final, and then the Caroline Wozniacki and Yanina Wickmayer semifinal. The big show – the semifinal between Serena Williams and Kim Clijsters -- will slide right in to what was supposed to be the women’s final.
On Sunday, the men will play the semifinals during the day and the women’s final will play in the evening at a time to be determined.
And the men will get their chance to crown a champion on Monday – the time to still be determined. And the women’s doubles final will also take place on Monday.
And, of course, all of that is dependent upon Saturday featuring clear skies.
So what’s going to be the big topic of conversation? Obviously, when will the U.S. Open step up and construct a convertible-topped roof on the stadium to keep play going?
The Australian has had it for years – they have it on their two main courts. Wimbledon unveiled their roof this year, so the place most revered for being steeped in history is now cutting edge.
The French Open apparently has plans for a new stadium avec roof (avec -- that’s with, in French), which would be off-campus and connected from the park across the street.
But the U.S. Open – no plans seem in the works yet.
And I’m not really that disturbed about it, to be honest, because part of me just can’t wrap my head around a Grand Slam being played indoors.
I perfectly understand the advantage of a stadium with a roof – the tennis goes on, matches get concluded, fans are happy, and part of the players are smiling.
But there’s an unfair element to the roof and it can’t be denied.
A Grand Slam is supposed to be an outdoor tournament. Once you close the roof it becomes something very different – perfect conditions.
Once you close the roof, the top players get to keep to the intended schedule of one day off as they are normally scheduled for the show court at an event. The other folks? Well, they sit around and wait for the rain to stop and play hectic schedules and make-up matches.
That makes a Grand Slam two distinctly different events.
An interesting aside, from an atmosphere perspective, the Australian roof never evoked a strong opinion from me. Presumably, as Australia always had the indoor component from my first visit Down Under in 1990, it didn’t bother me from how it felt to watch a match indoors. I still have reservations about the fairness of closing the roof at an outdoor event, but being under the roof still creates a buzz in Oz.
At Wimbledon, however, when they closed the roof, it somehow lost that special Wimbledon feeling – the atmosphere just deflated and it just felt like anyplace. Some, I’m sure, will disagree with me. But some will have the same observations. It just felt like any stadium anywhere you go.
All that said, it’s the 21st Century and it’s hard not to imagine that sooner than later there will be a roof on Arthur Ashe stadium, even if the USTA hasn’t revealed any concrete plans. Time will tell.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Just an observation – Somehow, Roger Federer always lands on the right side of the draw, the side that is always on schedule and not hindered by the rain. As one of my fav colleagues, George Vescey of the New York Times, said when I mentioned this ideal phenomenon – “It’s good to be Roger!”
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Open History On September 11, 2009
In 1977, Guillermo Vilas, the Bull of the Pampas, wins his U.S. Open crown in a four-set match over Jimmy Connors. The Open was on clay back then and the Argentine owned the surface, so much so that he won the final set at love. It was the last ever U.S. Open match played at the grand West Side Tennis Club in Forest Hills.
In 1988, Mats Wilander wins the longest men’s final in U.S. Open history, a five-setter in four hours, 55 minutes. The match comes with a bonus beyond the trophy and the check – Wilander also strips his final opponent, Ivan Lendl, of the No. 1 ranking, which he claims for his very own.
In 1994, an unseeded man claims the title – the first unseeded man since Fred Stolle of Australia did so in 1966. The champion – Andre Agassi, whose ranking had dipped, but thirst for Grand Slam trophies was still very much alive.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Are Records Made To Be Broken?
Derek Jeter ties Lou Gehrig’s Yankee record of 2,721 hits!
As my Aussie friends would say, Good on ya, Derek!
One wonders what the great Gehrig might think about this all. It’s a record that has had his name etched on it for eons, but eventually someone was going to come along and better it. And it doesn’t hurt that besides for athletes being in better shape, equipment has vastly improved.
Derek sounded in awe of sharing the record after the achievement last night. And from what I know of the Gehrig legend he should be in awe of the Hall of Famer.
It brings up the point – are records made to be broken? This is a good question to wonder about in terms of tennis. No one thought that anyone would come along, at least not in the near future to break Pete Sampras’ record of 14 Grand Slams. But then Roger Federer showed up only a few years later and now he has the Grand Slam singles title record at 15.
Can anyone touch Roger and will it happen sooner than later?
Rafael Nadal has six majors and is a pretty young guy at 23, so I guess it could be possible. But his body is already showing signs of breaking down, so it’s a very iffy proposition.
In today’s game of tennis it’s hard to be as prolific as Federer’s been and in my opinion his record is likely to stand for quite a while. If Nadal can’t challenge it, I don’t see anyone else now or coming up that looks like they can. But the thing that makes this game interesting is you just never know what is going to happen.
Just a brief note on the Melanie Oudin situation that came to light after her loss last night – that her father filed for divorce last year citing her mother had an affair with Melanie’s coach, Brian de Villiers.
Why did someone have to spoil the best week of Melanie Oudin’s life by putting out that info. Is a 17-year-old responsible for the actions of their parents? Surely not? It wasn’t necessary and there’s no doubt in many of our minds that she’s likely to go from being delightful with the media to being suspicious and unhelpful.
And I’m not saying anything more on this situation.
The rain is heading our way and already disrupting tonight’s Nadal-Gonzalez match. UGH!
Tomorrow is looking to be a washout and that’s not a good thing. But for now this is going to be one of the shortest b log posts you’ll ever see from the usually long winded me. I need to drive back to NJ for my beauty sleep!
As my Aussie friends would say, Good on ya, Derek!
One wonders what the great Gehrig might think about this all. It’s a record that has had his name etched on it for eons, but eventually someone was going to come along and better it. And it doesn’t hurt that besides for athletes being in better shape, equipment has vastly improved.
Derek sounded in awe of sharing the record after the achievement last night. And from what I know of the Gehrig legend he should be in awe of the Hall of Famer.
It brings up the point – are records made to be broken? This is a good question to wonder about in terms of tennis. No one thought that anyone would come along, at least not in the near future to break Pete Sampras’ record of 14 Grand Slams. But then Roger Federer showed up only a few years later and now he has the Grand Slam singles title record at 15.
Can anyone touch Roger and will it happen sooner than later?
Rafael Nadal has six majors and is a pretty young guy at 23, so I guess it could be possible. But his body is already showing signs of breaking down, so it’s a very iffy proposition.
In today’s game of tennis it’s hard to be as prolific as Federer’s been and in my opinion his record is likely to stand for quite a while. If Nadal can’t challenge it, I don’t see anyone else now or coming up that looks like they can. But the thing that makes this game interesting is you just never know what is going to happen.
Just a brief note on the Melanie Oudin situation that came to light after her loss last night – that her father filed for divorce last year citing her mother had an affair with Melanie’s coach, Brian de Villiers.
Why did someone have to spoil the best week of Melanie Oudin’s life by putting out that info. Is a 17-year-old responsible for the actions of their parents? Surely not? It wasn’t necessary and there’s no doubt in many of our minds that she’s likely to go from being delightful with the media to being suspicious and unhelpful.
And I’m not saying anything more on this situation.
The rain is heading our way and already disrupting tonight’s Nadal-Gonzalez match. UGH!
Tomorrow is looking to be a washout and that’s not a good thing. But for now this is going to be one of the shortest b log posts you’ll ever see from the usually long winded me. I need to drive back to NJ for my beauty sleep!
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Sloane Stephens: Grace In Adversity
By Sandra Harwitt
Sports journalists are supposed to be diplomatically unbiased about the people they cover.
It’s just a part of what is considered ethical and the right thing to do.
But every so often journalists have to let down their shield and feel like they’re rooting for someone they can’t help wanting to support.
That’s certainly the way a small group of reporters felt today when they went to hear American junior Sloane Stephens after her tough three-set, second-round win on Wednesday afternoon.
Sloane is going through a difficult time right now and it is impossible not to be impressed with how she’s handling the situation.
Here’s the back story: Sloane’s biological father, John, a former NFL running back, was killed in a car crash last week. Sloane was raised by her mother, Sybil, and her second husband, who unfortunately passed away of cancer in the last couple of years.
Sloane did have contact with her biological father, although much of that was by phone instead of in person.
Her mom left it to Sloane to decide whether she wanted to go Louisiana to attend the funeral. Sloane decided she wanted to be there and USTA officials made it happen, leaving her schedule clear from when she played her doubles early on Monday until today.
Sloane spoke today of how it’s been tough, but she’s dealing and how she was glad she went to say good-bye. She also met nine other brothers-and-sisters from her father’s side while at the funeral.
The composure in which she spoke of such a personal subject was moving. The questioners were careful with how they asked the questions and seemed to assess whether she was prepared to discuss what she’s been going through. After the press conference I chatted with her mom, Sybil Smith, who I’ve chatted with in the past. She thanked me for asking about the situation so “gently” as I was the first to ask the question. Sloane is 16-years-old – it’s responsible journalism to ask difficult questions as softly as you can.
If you don’t think that’s the normal journalist way you should have seen the annoyance that reporters felt a number of years ago when one of our notable insensitive reporters, fortunately no longer on the tennis beat, demanded information from Alexandra Stevenson when he uncovered that former basketball great, Julius Irving was her father. She was a teenager, a nice but not particularly mature teenager and it was a painful experience to be in that interview room.
Back to Sloane: She has a winning personality and is a delight to be around.
Let’s hope her tennis game can deliver her to the career she desires.
P.S. If you want to follow more about the juniors check out my articles on the ITF website – www.itftennis.com.
HEADS OF STATE:
During the last few days the new heads of both tours – Stacey Allaster for the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour and Adam Helfant for the ATP Tour – have come around to have a chat with the media.
Allaster was second in command at the WTA so she’s just been bumped up a notch. She’s personable and is very experienced having been the tournament director of the Rogers Cup in Canada before joining the tour.
She spoke about being hopeful about Sony Ericsson staying on as the overall title sponsor of the tour. She sees the women’s game as healthy and a special product from a marketing level.
She reports that there’s not likely to be a change in the ranking system and this is one area that the media has concerns. It’s hard not to think that tennis fans don’t believe there’s a discrepancy in terms of who is ranked No. 1 and who they believe is the top player in the world. This makes sense as how do you justify that Dinara Safina has been and will be the No. 1 player after the U.S. Open even though Serena Williams has won two Grand Slam titles this year – the Australian Open and Wimbledon. And when all is said and done here this week, Serena could win her third Grand Slam title of the season. Safina, so far, has no Grand Slam titles to her credit, although she’s had the chance in a few finals. There’s a reason to reward Safina for playing often on the tour and going deep into events as there’s a reason to dock Serena for not being all that supportive at many of the other tournaments. But reality is reality – it’s the majors that really count, so most believe Serena who should be No. 1.
Helfant has sports a background from having been on board as an executive with Nike for many years. He’s still feeling his way in the ATP job since he joined the team at the beginning of the year. Yesterday was his first formal open-to-all press conference.
The biggest news he revealed is that the men’s game does not yet have a signed title sponsor to replace Mercedes, which left at the beginning of this year. However, Helfant said that he is now in negotiations with a number of possible sponsors, which is more encouraging than at the beginning of the year when people weren’t even answering his call.
Helfant is not looking to be the star as his predecessor, Etienne de Villiers, seemed to be. He wants to do a good job, do the nuts and bolts, but he seems to have the type personality that he’s fine doing the job in the background.
Obviously, time will tell, but I have chatted with Helfant a number of times, as well as with Allaster, and I have a good feeling about both of them. Hopefully, they’ll prove me right.
U.S.Open History For September 9:
In 1968, Arthur Ashe wins the first Open Era title at the first U.S. Open. He beats Dutchman Tom Okker in the final and remains the only African American man to win the U.S. Open.
In 1974, Jimmy Connors, 22, beats Ken Rosewall, 39, 6-1, 6-0, 6-1 in the final. It’s the most lopsided men’s final ever recorded at this tournament and only took 78-minutes for Connors to bank.
In 1979, Chris Evert’s 31-match streak at the U.S. Open ends when Tracy Austin, at 16 years, 8 months and 28 days becomes the youngest U.S. Open champion in history.
In 1990, Pete Sampras, at 19 years, 28 days, becomes the youngest U.S. Open men’s champion after beating Andre Agassi in a straight-set final.
Sports journalists are supposed to be diplomatically unbiased about the people they cover.
It’s just a part of what is considered ethical and the right thing to do.
But every so often journalists have to let down their shield and feel like they’re rooting for someone they can’t help wanting to support.
That’s certainly the way a small group of reporters felt today when they went to hear American junior Sloane Stephens after her tough three-set, second-round win on Wednesday afternoon.
Sloane is going through a difficult time right now and it is impossible not to be impressed with how she’s handling the situation.
Here’s the back story: Sloane’s biological father, John, a former NFL running back, was killed in a car crash last week. Sloane was raised by her mother, Sybil, and her second husband, who unfortunately passed away of cancer in the last couple of years.
Sloane did have contact with her biological father, although much of that was by phone instead of in person.
Her mom left it to Sloane to decide whether she wanted to go Louisiana to attend the funeral. Sloane decided she wanted to be there and USTA officials made it happen, leaving her schedule clear from when she played her doubles early on Monday until today.
Sloane spoke today of how it’s been tough, but she’s dealing and how she was glad she went to say good-bye. She also met nine other brothers-and-sisters from her father’s side while at the funeral.
The composure in which she spoke of such a personal subject was moving. The questioners were careful with how they asked the questions and seemed to assess whether she was prepared to discuss what she’s been going through. After the press conference I chatted with her mom, Sybil Smith, who I’ve chatted with in the past. She thanked me for asking about the situation so “gently” as I was the first to ask the question. Sloane is 16-years-old – it’s responsible journalism to ask difficult questions as softly as you can.
If you don’t think that’s the normal journalist way you should have seen the annoyance that reporters felt a number of years ago when one of our notable insensitive reporters, fortunately no longer on the tennis beat, demanded information from Alexandra Stevenson when he uncovered that former basketball great, Julius Irving was her father. She was a teenager, a nice but not particularly mature teenager and it was a painful experience to be in that interview room.
Back to Sloane: She has a winning personality and is a delight to be around.
Let’s hope her tennis game can deliver her to the career she desires.
P.S. If you want to follow more about the juniors check out my articles on the ITF website – www.itftennis.com.
HEADS OF STATE:
During the last few days the new heads of both tours – Stacey Allaster for the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour and Adam Helfant for the ATP Tour – have come around to have a chat with the media.
Allaster was second in command at the WTA so she’s just been bumped up a notch. She’s personable and is very experienced having been the tournament director of the Rogers Cup in Canada before joining the tour.
She spoke about being hopeful about Sony Ericsson staying on as the overall title sponsor of the tour. She sees the women’s game as healthy and a special product from a marketing level.
She reports that there’s not likely to be a change in the ranking system and this is one area that the media has concerns. It’s hard not to think that tennis fans don’t believe there’s a discrepancy in terms of who is ranked No. 1 and who they believe is the top player in the world. This makes sense as how do you justify that Dinara Safina has been and will be the No. 1 player after the U.S. Open even though Serena Williams has won two Grand Slam titles this year – the Australian Open and Wimbledon. And when all is said and done here this week, Serena could win her third Grand Slam title of the season. Safina, so far, has no Grand Slam titles to her credit, although she’s had the chance in a few finals. There’s a reason to reward Safina for playing often on the tour and going deep into events as there’s a reason to dock Serena for not being all that supportive at many of the other tournaments. But reality is reality – it’s the majors that really count, so most believe Serena who should be No. 1.
Helfant has sports a background from having been on board as an executive with Nike for many years. He’s still feeling his way in the ATP job since he joined the team at the beginning of the year. Yesterday was his first formal open-to-all press conference.
The biggest news he revealed is that the men’s game does not yet have a signed title sponsor to replace Mercedes, which left at the beginning of this year. However, Helfant said that he is now in negotiations with a number of possible sponsors, which is more encouraging than at the beginning of the year when people weren’t even answering his call.
Helfant is not looking to be the star as his predecessor, Etienne de Villiers, seemed to be. He wants to do a good job, do the nuts and bolts, but he seems to have the type personality that he’s fine doing the job in the background.
Obviously, time will tell, but I have chatted with Helfant a number of times, as well as with Allaster, and I have a good feeling about both of them. Hopefully, they’ll prove me right.
U.S.Open History For September 9:
In 1968, Arthur Ashe wins the first Open Era title at the first U.S. Open. He beats Dutchman Tom Okker in the final and remains the only African American man to win the U.S. Open.
In 1974, Jimmy Connors, 22, beats Ken Rosewall, 39, 6-1, 6-0, 6-1 in the final. It’s the most lopsided men’s final ever recorded at this tournament and only took 78-minutes for Connors to bank.
In 1979, Chris Evert’s 31-match streak at the U.S. Open ends when Tracy Austin, at 16 years, 8 months and 28 days becomes the youngest U.S. Open champion in history.
In 1990, Pete Sampras, at 19 years, 28 days, becomes the youngest U.S. Open men’s champion after beating Andre Agassi in a straight-set final.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Two Scintillating Scenarios
By Sandra Harwitt
Hello, tennis fans!
This blog could be brief as it’s been a busy day. On the other hand, as many of my editors can tell you, I’ve never been accused of being at a loss for an extra word or two.
So here it goes.
We have a couple of interesting scenarios that have arisen as an outgrowth from this U.S. Open.
Scenario One:
There are NO Russian women into the U.S. Open quarterfinal.
Svetlana Kuznetsova was the last possibility to keep the Russian trend of hanging around until deep into a Grand Slam alive.
Teen sensation Caroline Wozniacki, seeded No. 9 here, took care of that when she took out the sixth-seeded Kuznetsova 2-6, 7-6 (5), 7-6 (3) in the fourth round on Monday night.
This is big news as it’s been quite a while since a Russian hasn’t adorned at least a Grand Slam quarterfinal – 29 consecutive Slams, in fact, dating back to the 2002 French Open.
Does this mean the Russian Revolution is over in women’s tennis?
I wouldn’t think so. I’d bet with the breadth of their talent someone from their ranks will fly the flag deep into the Slams next year. Will they win Grand Slam titles – maybe, maybe not? But they have the talent to always be factors in the outcome at a major for the near future.
However, I do have some concerns.
Elena Dementieva just doesn’t seem capable of winning a Grand Slam even when she’s set up well to do well. But she does have Olympic gold from Beijing, so she will have something special to look at and show the grandchildren.
Maria Sharapova just doesn’t seem able to find a serve that works as I discussed in an earlier blog during the Open. She will need to work around her shoulder issue and find an effective serve or her Grand Slam titles count will end with the three she’s already won.
Svetlana Kuznetsova had a hiccup here, but she’s feisty and she did take home the French Open trophy this year, so she should be feeling good going into the closing weeks of the season.
And what more can I say about Dinara Safina but she should be using this break for a much needed break from the game and try to calm down and just play her game.
Scenario Two:
There are NO American men into the quarterfinals. NONE!
If you don’t think this is significant try relying on history to put it in perspective. The last time there wasn’t at least one Yank into the men’s quarterfinals at the U.S Open or its predecessor, the U.S. National, was NEVER! And NEVER goes back a long time – to the first U.S. National in 1881.
I guess the positive way to view this occurrence is to assume it’s an aberration that won’t happen again for another 128 years.
The not so positive way to look at this scenario is that our better players are getting older, our younger players are showing some promise, but are unlikely to be solid top 10 stars. So the question begs asking – Where do we find our next generation of contenders?
Don’t get me wrong in that I’m not writing off Andy Roddick. It was surprising he fell so early this year, especially after his dramatic final showing at Wimbledon. He is still a solid top 10 player and should be for another few years. But his closest colleagues don’t have that advantage – James Blake had his stint in the top 10 and he isn’t showing the kind of stuff that would make you think he’s headed back in that direction. Mardy Fish and Robby Ginepri have had nice careers but they aren’t about to burst out as late blooming superstars.
As for a thought or two on a few of the new guys in town:
Sam Querrey: I like Sam and I especially like the way he thinks outside the box (Check out my article on the investment club Sam made himself into under my espn.com/tennis archives – the piece ran in March). But even with Sam’s impressive results this summer I just don’t see him as a solid and consistent top 10 kind of guy. There’s just not enough backing up the serve and his height restricts his court movement, although he’s pretty speedy for a tall dude.
John Isner: Kudos to John for taking out Roddick, but he also is hindered by his height and he has not proven himself to be consistent in his results. He’ll have a good win, but then too many iffy results.
Jesse Levine: I like Jesse’s scrappiness and being shorter enables him to scamper around the court at ease. But he has a hard time dealing with the power of his taller colleagues. In the men’s game it’s going to be tough to reach Grand Slam finals the way that Michael Chang did with the brawn of the guys, and the technologically off-the-chart rackets and strings.
U.S. Open History For September 8, 2009
In 1968, Virginia Wade pulls off the big upset over Billie Jean King to become the first women’s champion in the Open Era.
In 1973, Margaret Court wins the last of her record 24 Grand Slam titles with a win over Evonne Goolagong.
In 1984 the phrase Super Saturday is coined for the long day of thrilling tennis that started at 11:07 a.m. and goes to 11:16 p.m. Stan Smith beats John Newcombe in a men’s 35s semifinal, Ivan Lendl beats Pat Cash in a five set semifinal, Martina Navratilova beats Chris Evert in three sets for the title, and John McEnroe defeats Jimmy Connors in a five set semifinal.
Hello, tennis fans!
This blog could be brief as it’s been a busy day. On the other hand, as many of my editors can tell you, I’ve never been accused of being at a loss for an extra word or two.
So here it goes.
We have a couple of interesting scenarios that have arisen as an outgrowth from this U.S. Open.
Scenario One:
There are NO Russian women into the U.S. Open quarterfinal.
Svetlana Kuznetsova was the last possibility to keep the Russian trend of hanging around until deep into a Grand Slam alive.
Teen sensation Caroline Wozniacki, seeded No. 9 here, took care of that when she took out the sixth-seeded Kuznetsova 2-6, 7-6 (5), 7-6 (3) in the fourth round on Monday night.
This is big news as it’s been quite a while since a Russian hasn’t adorned at least a Grand Slam quarterfinal – 29 consecutive Slams, in fact, dating back to the 2002 French Open.
Does this mean the Russian Revolution is over in women’s tennis?
I wouldn’t think so. I’d bet with the breadth of their talent someone from their ranks will fly the flag deep into the Slams next year. Will they win Grand Slam titles – maybe, maybe not? But they have the talent to always be factors in the outcome at a major for the near future.
However, I do have some concerns.
Elena Dementieva just doesn’t seem capable of winning a Grand Slam even when she’s set up well to do well. But she does have Olympic gold from Beijing, so she will have something special to look at and show the grandchildren.
Maria Sharapova just doesn’t seem able to find a serve that works as I discussed in an earlier blog during the Open. She will need to work around her shoulder issue and find an effective serve or her Grand Slam titles count will end with the three she’s already won.
Svetlana Kuznetsova had a hiccup here, but she’s feisty and she did take home the French Open trophy this year, so she should be feeling good going into the closing weeks of the season.
And what more can I say about Dinara Safina but she should be using this break for a much needed break from the game and try to calm down and just play her game.
Scenario Two:
There are NO American men into the quarterfinals. NONE!
If you don’t think this is significant try relying on history to put it in perspective. The last time there wasn’t at least one Yank into the men’s quarterfinals at the U.S Open or its predecessor, the U.S. National, was NEVER! And NEVER goes back a long time – to the first U.S. National in 1881.
I guess the positive way to view this occurrence is to assume it’s an aberration that won’t happen again for another 128 years.
The not so positive way to look at this scenario is that our better players are getting older, our younger players are showing some promise, but are unlikely to be solid top 10 stars. So the question begs asking – Where do we find our next generation of contenders?
Don’t get me wrong in that I’m not writing off Andy Roddick. It was surprising he fell so early this year, especially after his dramatic final showing at Wimbledon. He is still a solid top 10 player and should be for another few years. But his closest colleagues don’t have that advantage – James Blake had his stint in the top 10 and he isn’t showing the kind of stuff that would make you think he’s headed back in that direction. Mardy Fish and Robby Ginepri have had nice careers but they aren’t about to burst out as late blooming superstars.
As for a thought or two on a few of the new guys in town:
Sam Querrey: I like Sam and I especially like the way he thinks outside the box (Check out my article on the investment club Sam made himself into under my espn.com/tennis archives – the piece ran in March). But even with Sam’s impressive results this summer I just don’t see him as a solid and consistent top 10 kind of guy. There’s just not enough backing up the serve and his height restricts his court movement, although he’s pretty speedy for a tall dude.
John Isner: Kudos to John for taking out Roddick, but he also is hindered by his height and he has not proven himself to be consistent in his results. He’ll have a good win, but then too many iffy results.
Jesse Levine: I like Jesse’s scrappiness and being shorter enables him to scamper around the court at ease. But he has a hard time dealing with the power of his taller colleagues. In the men’s game it’s going to be tough to reach Grand Slam finals the way that Michael Chang did with the brawn of the guys, and the technologically off-the-chart rackets and strings.
U.S. Open History For September 8, 2009
In 1968, Virginia Wade pulls off the big upset over Billie Jean King to become the first women’s champion in the Open Era.
In 1973, Margaret Court wins the last of her record 24 Grand Slam titles with a win over Evonne Goolagong.
In 1984 the phrase Super Saturday is coined for the long day of thrilling tennis that started at 11:07 a.m. and goes to 11:16 p.m. Stan Smith beats John Newcombe in a men’s 35s semifinal, Ivan Lendl beats Pat Cash in a five set semifinal, Martina Navratilova beats Chris Evert in three sets for the title, and John McEnroe defeats Jimmy Connors in a five set semifinal.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Oodles More On Oudin
From White House To Arthur's House: Bubba's Coming To The Tennis
By Sandra Harwitt
If tennis is your thing then these days you just can’t get enough of Melanie Oudin. There’s no need to apologize about the obsession, even the most casual of sports fans are taking notice of the Marietta, GA., teen.
The CBS announcers put it most succinctly after Oudin hit payday in securing a U.S. Open quarterfinal berth on Monday – A Star Is Born!
Oudin is living this U.S. Open on the Russian express – she’s played four comrades in a row – Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, No. 4 Elena Dementieva, former U.S. Open champ Maria Sharapova, and No. 13 Nadia Petrova. In her last three matches she battled back from a one-set deficit to advance. Against Petrova, the American seemed destined for defeat before coming up with the 1-6, 7-6 (2), 6-3 upset.
Here’s what I like best about Oudin – there’s no bratty comments, no I’m special and you’re not attitude, no anything that would make you flinch in horror.
The Oudin family either are the best acting family in the world or they are what they seem to be: down-to-earth, infectiously enthusiastic, and impressively practical even as they find themselves in this incredible whirlwind of Melanie’s success.
What’s most refreshing as I pointed out the other day is that it’s actually Melanie who wants this, who wants to be No. 1, wants to be a champion. Her parents have supported her quest, but they have not demanded it and that makes a huge difference.
If you want proof of that you’ll find it in Andre Agassi’s upcoming biography. He pointedly admits he did not choose tennis, his father chose it for all of his offspring with Andre being the sibling who got the job done.
An outgrowth of that is that it took Andre a long time to relish in his talent and find pleasure in the game – he did, but it was a long road to that outcome.
I spoke with Melanie’s mom, Leslie, today and she talked about the difference between encouraging and demanding that your child become a tennis player.
“You just offer the support, it’s all she’s ever wanted to do, she’s talked about it, follows tennis, has a passion and shows it on the court,” Leslie Oudin told me after my colleagues stepped away to talk to her husband, John. “It’s been nice to know your child just enjoys playing and you don’t have to do it. I have seen quite a bit of parents pushing and I sit and think, ‘Do you know how many more matches you’re going to be watching, do you know how much more they’re going to have to go through.’ Back in the juniors they had a long way to go and they’re not going to enjoy the game in the long run if you continue to push.”
Mom admits she’s a bit shell-shocked by the quickness that Melanie is advancing. When I talked to Leslie about her daughter at Wimbledon just a couple of months ago, I was the only journalist in pursuit. Today, mom, dad, and twin sister, Katherine, who cried with joy for her sister after she claimed a quarterfinal slot, were taking turns chatting with the media.
“Yes it is, it is a shock,” Leslie Oudin told me. “I’m sure she has the confidence, but you see her and she still looks small on the court compared to some of these girls. I’m sure she hasn’t reached her peak in her strength yet so you just don’t know. I know she can match a lot of the players, but her serve still needs a lot of work. She’s just 17 and she doesn’t have that much experience in the Grand Slams. It’s been amazing.”
Proof that the Oudin’s have taken an individual approach to their children is when you see things through the eyes of Katherine. She was so happy for her sister, who until four years ago she shared a bedroom with at home.
But she’s not feeling any jealousy – she didn’t want tennis as a career, she wants to play in college and most probably go onto medical school so “I’m looking for a school with good academics” said the high school senior.
She did admit it was quite traumatic in seventh grade when Melanie made the decision that home schooling would work better for her than to attend school.
“We’re still very, very close,” Katherine Oudin said. “I tell her about school and she tells me about her tournaments. It was really difficult when she started home schooling in seventh grade because then I felt I was on my own. I had to be a regular kid and make friends on my own. I didn’t have that security friend always there. She knew what she wanted.”
QUOTE OF THE DAY
This honor goes to Nadia Petrova, who is asked about Melanie Oudin beating four tall Russian women in a row to reach the quarterfinals.
Of the possibility that Oudin could face a fifth Russian, 2004 U.S. Open champion and reigning French Open champion Svetlana Kuznetsova, in the quarterfinals, Petrova said: “Well, now she gets, hopefully, a short and a little chubby Russian. See how she’s going to handle that.”
BUBBA’S GOING TO BE IN THE HOUSE
President Bill Clinton will be the featured speaker at the U.S. Open on Thursday night, September 10, when the late Arthur Ashe is inducted into the U.S. Open Court of Champions. Ashe, the only African American man to win the U.S. Open title (1968) to date, was instrumental in founding the USTA National Junior Tennis League, now known as the National Junior Tennis League, which teaches tennis to over 220,000 youngsters in the United States.
U.S. OPEN HISTORY ON SEPTEMBER 7
In 1953, Maureen Connolly makes history by becoming the first woman to win a calendar Grand Slam when she wins the U.S. National title.
In 1969, Vice President Spiro Agnew presents the new women’s champion, Margaret Court, with the trophy on the stadium court at the West Side Tennis Club in Forest Hills.
In 2002, Venus and Serena Williams compete for the second consecutive year in the women’s final with Serena taking out older sister and defending champion, Venus Williams.
By Sandra Harwitt
If tennis is your thing then these days you just can’t get enough of Melanie Oudin. There’s no need to apologize about the obsession, even the most casual of sports fans are taking notice of the Marietta, GA., teen.
The CBS announcers put it most succinctly after Oudin hit payday in securing a U.S. Open quarterfinal berth on Monday – A Star Is Born!
Oudin is living this U.S. Open on the Russian express – she’s played four comrades in a row – Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, No. 4 Elena Dementieva, former U.S. Open champ Maria Sharapova, and No. 13 Nadia Petrova. In her last three matches she battled back from a one-set deficit to advance. Against Petrova, the American seemed destined for defeat before coming up with the 1-6, 7-6 (2), 6-3 upset.
Here’s what I like best about Oudin – there’s no bratty comments, no I’m special and you’re not attitude, no anything that would make you flinch in horror.
The Oudin family either are the best acting family in the world or they are what they seem to be: down-to-earth, infectiously enthusiastic, and impressively practical even as they find themselves in this incredible whirlwind of Melanie’s success.
What’s most refreshing as I pointed out the other day is that it’s actually Melanie who wants this, who wants to be No. 1, wants to be a champion. Her parents have supported her quest, but they have not demanded it and that makes a huge difference.
If you want proof of that you’ll find it in Andre Agassi’s upcoming biography. He pointedly admits he did not choose tennis, his father chose it for all of his offspring with Andre being the sibling who got the job done.
An outgrowth of that is that it took Andre a long time to relish in his talent and find pleasure in the game – he did, but it was a long road to that outcome.
I spoke with Melanie’s mom, Leslie, today and she talked about the difference between encouraging and demanding that your child become a tennis player.
“You just offer the support, it’s all she’s ever wanted to do, she’s talked about it, follows tennis, has a passion and shows it on the court,” Leslie Oudin told me after my colleagues stepped away to talk to her husband, John. “It’s been nice to know your child just enjoys playing and you don’t have to do it. I have seen quite a bit of parents pushing and I sit and think, ‘Do you know how many more matches you’re going to be watching, do you know how much more they’re going to have to go through.’ Back in the juniors they had a long way to go and they’re not going to enjoy the game in the long run if you continue to push.”
Mom admits she’s a bit shell-shocked by the quickness that Melanie is advancing. When I talked to Leslie about her daughter at Wimbledon just a couple of months ago, I was the only journalist in pursuit. Today, mom, dad, and twin sister, Katherine, who cried with joy for her sister after she claimed a quarterfinal slot, were taking turns chatting with the media.
“Yes it is, it is a shock,” Leslie Oudin told me. “I’m sure she has the confidence, but you see her and she still looks small on the court compared to some of these girls. I’m sure she hasn’t reached her peak in her strength yet so you just don’t know. I know she can match a lot of the players, but her serve still needs a lot of work. She’s just 17 and she doesn’t have that much experience in the Grand Slams. It’s been amazing.”
Proof that the Oudin’s have taken an individual approach to their children is when you see things through the eyes of Katherine. She was so happy for her sister, who until four years ago she shared a bedroom with at home.
But she’s not feeling any jealousy – she didn’t want tennis as a career, she wants to play in college and most probably go onto medical school so “I’m looking for a school with good academics” said the high school senior.
She did admit it was quite traumatic in seventh grade when Melanie made the decision that home schooling would work better for her than to attend school.
“We’re still very, very close,” Katherine Oudin said. “I tell her about school and she tells me about her tournaments. It was really difficult when she started home schooling in seventh grade because then I felt I was on my own. I had to be a regular kid and make friends on my own. I didn’t have that security friend always there. She knew what she wanted.”
QUOTE OF THE DAY
This honor goes to Nadia Petrova, who is asked about Melanie Oudin beating four tall Russian women in a row to reach the quarterfinals.
Of the possibility that Oudin could face a fifth Russian, 2004 U.S. Open champion and reigning French Open champion Svetlana Kuznetsova, in the quarterfinals, Petrova said: “Well, now she gets, hopefully, a short and a little chubby Russian. See how she’s going to handle that.”
BUBBA’S GOING TO BE IN THE HOUSE
President Bill Clinton will be the featured speaker at the U.S. Open on Thursday night, September 10, when the late Arthur Ashe is inducted into the U.S. Open Court of Champions. Ashe, the only African American man to win the U.S. Open title (1968) to date, was instrumental in founding the USTA National Junior Tennis League, now known as the National Junior Tennis League, which teaches tennis to over 220,000 youngsters in the United States.
U.S. OPEN HISTORY ON SEPTEMBER 7
In 1953, Maureen Connolly makes history by becoming the first woman to win a calendar Grand Slam when she wins the U.S. National title.
In 1969, Vice President Spiro Agnew presents the new women’s champion, Margaret Court, with the trophy on the stadium court at the West Side Tennis Club in Forest Hills.
In 2002, Venus and Serena Williams compete for the second consecutive year in the women’s final with Serena taking out older sister and defending champion, Venus Williams.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
When The Big Names Lose Early
By Sandra Harwitt
What can you say after a day like yesterday except that anything can happen so think twice before you bet the house!
Gone is Andy Roddick, who many thought had a great chance to win his second Grand Slam trophy – second U.S. Open title. John Isner, the former Georgia Bulldog towers over most of the other players, but Roddick’s achievements should’ve towered over Isner. But in the end, Isner had one too many serves in their exciting 7-6 (3), 6-3, 3-6, 5-7, 7-6 (5) third round encounter.
Most around these parts thought that Roddick should be and was encouraged by his fantastic showing in the Wimbledon final against Roger Federer. But I think it’s naïve to not assume there had to be a tremendous element of disappointment. Through most of that match, Andy was in charge even with Roger serving so big. And to lose by losing your serve for the first time at the end of five intriguing sets -- -- Andy had to wondering what else can he could possibly do to get his hands on a Wimbledon trophy after three attempts against Roger in the finals.
Also bowing out was Dinara Safina in a tough 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (5) upset delivered by Petra Kvitova of the Czech Republic and as discussed in yesterday’s blog, Maria Sharapova.
Now some might think me crazy, but Safina’s early round loss could be a blessing in disguise. I actually picked Dinara as my early exit in the espn.com expert picks. Here was my reasoning, which some of you might find a bit crazy. I felt that she just could not handle another Grand Slam final loss. Seriously! She’s got that Safin-Safina blood coursing through her veins and they see things differently and are very emotional people.
The 2008 French Open final: Safina suffers a 6-4, 6-3 loss to Anna Ivanovic.
The 2009 Australian Open final: Safina suffers a tougher 6-0, 6-3 loss to Serena Williams
The 2009 French Open final: Safina suffers another straight set defeat at 6-4, 6-2 to Svetlana Kuznetsova.
How much Grand Slam final failure can a girl take?
I know there are those who point out that Kim Clijsters failed to hoist the trophy in her first four Grand Slam final appearances before she won her lone major at the 2005 U.S. Open. But Kim and Dinara are as different as they come, so that theory doesn’t seem applicable to me.
If Safina is smart she’ll take this early exit and make it work for the future. She needs to go out there and find a confidence boost as her self-esteem has to be low. Personally, I think the computer rankings have a glitch when someone who doesn’t win a major can be top dog. But the computer rewards players for playing frequently and going deep into a tournament on a regular basis. So as the rankings work now, Safina was legitimately No. 1 and she should have held her head high and acted like she deserved to be there.
It’s hard not to like Safina – she’s charming, funny, entertaining just like her older brother, Marat. FYI: Marat says he’s done with tennis, but I wonder if we might not see him back.
Talk about having your head on straight look no further than Kim Clijsters. She knew she wanted to retire, get married and have children. She did that successfully, decided she missed the game and wanted back in. She’s dedicated to being a contender again and her stunning 6-0, 0-6, 6-4 win over Venus Williams in the fourth round today sits her comfortably in the quarterfinals.
Expect Clijsters, one of the nicest ladies on tour who all welcomed back with enthusiasm, to do well in her second career. Fulfillment Clijsters style is husband, daughter and tennis all wrapped up into one beautiful package.
U.S. Open History For September 6
In 1920, Big Bill Tilden one the first of his seven U.S. singles titles at the famed West Side Tennis Club.
In 1991, Monica Seles beat fellow teen Jennifer Capriati in the semifinals to reach her first U.S. Open final. She goes on to win the title with a final victory over Martina Navratilova.
In 1998, Steffi Graf plays what turns out to be her last ever match at the U.S. Open, losing to Patty Schnyder 6-3, 6-4 in the fourth round. Graf retires 11 months later after winning the 1999 French Open and reaching the Wimbledon final.
Until tomorrow, tennis fans!
What can you say after a day like yesterday except that anything can happen so think twice before you bet the house!
Gone is Andy Roddick, who many thought had a great chance to win his second Grand Slam trophy – second U.S. Open title. John Isner, the former Georgia Bulldog towers over most of the other players, but Roddick’s achievements should’ve towered over Isner. But in the end, Isner had one too many serves in their exciting 7-6 (3), 6-3, 3-6, 5-7, 7-6 (5) third round encounter.
Most around these parts thought that Roddick should be and was encouraged by his fantastic showing in the Wimbledon final against Roger Federer. But I think it’s naïve to not assume there had to be a tremendous element of disappointment. Through most of that match, Andy was in charge even with Roger serving so big. And to lose by losing your serve for the first time at the end of five intriguing sets -- -- Andy had to wondering what else can he could possibly do to get his hands on a Wimbledon trophy after three attempts against Roger in the finals.
Also bowing out was Dinara Safina in a tough 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (5) upset delivered by Petra Kvitova of the Czech Republic and as discussed in yesterday’s blog, Maria Sharapova.
Now some might think me crazy, but Safina’s early round loss could be a blessing in disguise. I actually picked Dinara as my early exit in the espn.com expert picks. Here was my reasoning, which some of you might find a bit crazy. I felt that she just could not handle another Grand Slam final loss. Seriously! She’s got that Safin-Safina blood coursing through her veins and they see things differently and are very emotional people.
The 2008 French Open final: Safina suffers a 6-4, 6-3 loss to Anna Ivanovic.
The 2009 Australian Open final: Safina suffers a tougher 6-0, 6-3 loss to Serena Williams
The 2009 French Open final: Safina suffers another straight set defeat at 6-4, 6-2 to Svetlana Kuznetsova.
How much Grand Slam final failure can a girl take?
I know there are those who point out that Kim Clijsters failed to hoist the trophy in her first four Grand Slam final appearances before she won her lone major at the 2005 U.S. Open. But Kim and Dinara are as different as they come, so that theory doesn’t seem applicable to me.
If Safina is smart she’ll take this early exit and make it work for the future. She needs to go out there and find a confidence boost as her self-esteem has to be low. Personally, I think the computer rankings have a glitch when someone who doesn’t win a major can be top dog. But the computer rewards players for playing frequently and going deep into a tournament on a regular basis. So as the rankings work now, Safina was legitimately No. 1 and she should have held her head high and acted like she deserved to be there.
It’s hard not to like Safina – she’s charming, funny, entertaining just like her older brother, Marat. FYI: Marat says he’s done with tennis, but I wonder if we might not see him back.
Talk about having your head on straight look no further than Kim Clijsters. She knew she wanted to retire, get married and have children. She did that successfully, decided she missed the game and wanted back in. She’s dedicated to being a contender again and her stunning 6-0, 0-6, 6-4 win over Venus Williams in the fourth round today sits her comfortably in the quarterfinals.
Expect Clijsters, one of the nicest ladies on tour who all welcomed back with enthusiasm, to do well in her second career. Fulfillment Clijsters style is husband, daughter and tennis all wrapped up into one beautiful package.
U.S. Open History For September 6
In 1920, Big Bill Tilden one the first of his seven U.S. singles titles at the famed West Side Tennis Club.
In 1991, Monica Seles beat fellow teen Jennifer Capriati in the semifinals to reach her first U.S. Open final. She goes on to win the title with a final victory over Martina Navratilova.
In 1998, Steffi Graf plays what turns out to be her last ever match at the U.S. Open, losing to Patty Schnyder 6-3, 6-4 in the fourth round. Graf retires 11 months later after winning the 1999 French Open and reaching the Wimbledon final.
Until tomorrow, tennis fans!
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