View Full Version : ROME ROUND 3: Dammit does for Muzzah: 6'7, 6'3, 6'2. Andy out of Rome.
Sallydaisy
16-05-2012, 15:34
Andy v Ritchie
H2H (http://www.atpworldtour.com/Players/Head-To-Head.aspx?pId=G628&oId=MC10) is 3-2 in Andy's favour.
2011 Andy
2010 Andy
2009 Richie (w/o)
2008 Andy (THAT match at Wimbledon!)
2007 Richie
2006 Richie
DaveArneRiise
16-05-2012, 15:59
Another 3 setter me thinks with Andy eventually prevailing.
Not liking what Raven's just tweeted about Andy's practice today: "lots of breaks, lots of back touching, a chat w AI abt smth in foot/leg, almost no movements + missing shots like a boss!"
uh oh :sad: hopefully its not serious and he can continue
DaveArneRiise
16-05-2012, 16:22
No point in playing if he's in pain. More important tournaments on the horizon for Andy.
Oh crumbs - didn't think he looked very happy yesterday. Trouble is all these tournies and the points that go with them only come round once a year.
Perhaps there is something to be said for Rafa's suggestion of a two-year ranking system! (He says it would be fairer to players who have to miss a few months due to injury.)
Perhaps there is something to be said for Rafa's suggestion of a two-year ranking system! (He says it would be fairer to players who have to miss a few months due to injury.)
I guess I'm thinking more along the lines of age catching up with him - with every missed opportunity the chances of a slam/rising up the rankings start to fade after 25 :sad: Hope someone can cheer me up!
Well, of course this is true. Someone else on here quite indignantly said the other day, that Andy has as much chance of winning a slam as he ever did, but statistically that is not true. A player at the start of his career has, assuming a 15 year career, 60 chances to win a slam. A player with only 5 years left has only 20 remaining chances to win a slam. So the likelihood does decrease year by year. But he still has plenty of years left yet!
HoopGirl
16-05-2012, 17:51
Not liking what Raven's just tweeted about Andy's practice today: "lots of breaks, lots of back touching, a chat w AI abt smth in foot/leg, almost no movements + missing shots like a boss!"
Thats really worrying.
Hope he is just stiff from yesterdays big tussle
Sallydaisy
16-05-2012, 18:12
OOP for Thursday courtesy @Neilharman
Andy Murray is in SuperTennis Arena tomorrow against Gasquet so long as Nadal wins tonight, otherwise on Centre.
3rd match after 11am
Day session on Centre,
Djoko v. Monaco; Stosur v. Venus; Granollers v. Nadal; night is Ivanovic v. Sharapova; The Fed v JCF
He looked as though he was struggling at the end of last night's match. Although he has a good record against Gasquet, he really needs to be match fit to beat him - I really hope he doesn't play if there's any likelihood of him making the injury worse.
LC the fan
16-05-2012, 19:11
I guess I'm thinking more along the lines of age catching up with him - with every missed opportunity the chances of a slam/rising up the rankings start to fade after 25 :sad: Hope someone can cheer me up!
Wish I could !- my problem is that I am beginning to feel that way too ! Maybe he just wasn't pushing it too much today. I cant bear to watch him playing under par through injury. But you are right, of course. Only 12 slams left before he reaches 28 and few players win one for the first time at that age
DaveArneRiise
16-05-2012, 19:55
Confirmed Andy 3rd up on Supertennis Arena. Follows Crista v Kvitova and Ferrer v Simon. Ferrer Simon could be a marathon match , I'd guess Andy will be on around 3pm UK time.
Won't be able to watch this tomorrow. Really hope Andy is Ok and that there's nothing wrong. Not the best time for an injury with a slam round the corner.
I won't be able to watch this one either. Somehow he's going to have to cope without us. :)
The Very Best of Luck Andy!!!!:thumbup:
Good luck Andy. Everything's crossed for you. x
Golden Lady
17-05-2012, 08:17
I really hope that back niggle isn't anything to worry about and that Andy's woken up this morning feeling better and ready to go! Wouldn't be worried in the slightest if he were meeting Gasquet on grass or hard
court but the clay is slightly less comfortable. That said, Andy can do this if he's feeling good so here's hoping!!!!
Sallydaisy
17-05-2012, 08:29
I'll be here so will try to do a match summary for those who miss it.
It's a bit tricky writing from behind the sofa wall though .........
:sofa:
I'd have more confident about the outcome of this match if it was last year when I though Andy really tackled his claycourt demons head on. However, I think he's probably working on quite a lot of things with Lendl and that's perhaps causing aspects of his game to be a little less 'secure' during a transition period.
I was impressed with the way Andy gritted out his win over Nalbandian and I think he can beat Gasquet - even on clay.
Golden Lady
17-05-2012, 08:33
I was impressed with the way Andy gritted out his win over Nalbandian and I think he can beat Gasquet - even on clay.
I agree Sally and after all, we have seen him do it haven't we. 1st round of the French Open 2010, when Andy came back from 2 sets down to win. He dug deep against Nalbandian and I'm sure he'll do the same today.
Really looking forward to today's match. Its a tough draw, but a fun draw.
Madeline
17-05-2012, 09:35
I was impressed with the way Andy gritted out his win over Nalbandian and I think he can beat Gasquet - even on clay.
Well, he has done already, at RG - but he lost the first two sets first, and he can't afford to do that today!
I'm quite confident for today as AllyB has backed Gasquet!
on tuesday Nalbandian played a belter!! - and as said earlier - gutsy performance from Andy!! -
and the Gasquet match today appears to be another really tough match!!
can't wait - good luck Andy!! - :swingin: :clap: :swingin: - come on!!
I'm quite confident for today as AllyB has backed Gasquet!
I'm in a really pessimistic mood these days :help:
All the best of luck, Andy:thumbup::thumbup::thumbup::thumbup::wave::)
I'm in a really pessimistic mood these days :help:
Should have added "as far as Andy is concerned" - haven't even contemplated losing to the Hobos on Saturday
Sallydaisy
17-05-2012, 12:15
This match could be on much sooner than we thought!!!
Ferrer is 6'1, 2-2 up already v Simon.
If Gillou falters we could see Andy around 13.45pm UK time!
Sallydaisy
17-05-2012, 12:35
Gilles has woken up; now 5-3 ahead in the 2nd set with Ferrer to serve next.
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 12:40
Simon serving to take this into a 3rd set, but Ferrer has 3 BPs to level the set - ooh, which he's just done...!
looks as though I might have timed my arrival back home just right!
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 12:58
Fascinating tussle in the last few games of this match, but Ferrer with match points now...
Andy and Reeshar knocking up!
Won't be able to follow this. Mad busy at work! Just stuffing late lunch down my neck before rushing off again .... ho hum! Roll on the weekend, hope I can watch Andy then
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 13:23
Here we go....please remember to keep your arms and legs inside the vehicle at all times...!
DaveArneRiise
17-05-2012, 13:27
3 break points come and go
Sallydaisy
17-05-2012, 13:27
Opening point winning dropshot followed by a great cross court forehand!
Muzzah 40-0* on Richie's serve. Pegged to 40-30*.
Deuce.
:shades:
DaveArneRiise
17-05-2012, 13:31
One of the commies just asked if Andy has had a better career than Tim Henman? He asked it in a serious tone as well .... :facepalm:
Sallydaisy
17-05-2012, 13:31
Ad Andy, deuce, Ad Richie - and he holds.
Dropshots galore folks!
long opening game which Richie manages to hold
Madeline
17-05-2012, 13:33
@ DaveArneRise - You obviously have different commentary to me - Sky perhaps? I'm watching on tennistv.com and the commentator, somebody whose voice I don't recognise at all, is dreadful. He never shuts, just keeps wittering away the whole time. I'm seriously considering turning the sound off - but then I don't hear the officials' calls.
I really should remember to quote when answering a poster: by the time I have typed a reply there are half-a-dozen inbetween. . .
DaveArneRiise
17-05-2012, 13:33
Just me or does Andy's serving motion look different?
DaveArneRiise
17-05-2012, 13:35
Nice hold from Andy in the end. 1-1
david1610
17-05-2012, 13:36
Afternoon! C'mon Andy!
DaveArneRiise
17-05-2012, 13:48
Andy needs to execute on the next BP he gets. Had several thus far but failed to capitalize.
DaveArneRiise
17-05-2012, 13:48
Murray slams racket in frustration. 2-3 on serve.
yeah - Andy needs to take some of these chances!!
come on Andy!! - :swingin:
Sallydaisy
17-05-2012, 13:57
I seem to have got an Eastender for a commie on Bet365!
:shocked:
Who the heck is it?
He's calling Richie GassKay but really exaggerated.
:hmm:
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 13:58
Gasquet serving his way out of trouble yet again...!
yet another bp for Andy - come on!
Sallydaisy
17-05-2012, 14:01
Dammit hits long and wide and it's breakpoint #10 for Andy!
This is worse than chinese water torture, whatever that is.
Sallydaisy
17-05-2012, 14:03
Another deuce as Andy outplays Richard.
david1610
17-05-2012, 14:03
aagh! Just string one more point together with the other good ones. C'mon Andy!
great shot Andy - now this one please!
good point to set up another break point!!
david1610
17-05-2012, 14:04
Zero out of ten BPs! This time please!!!!
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 14:05
Finally! Andy breaks at the 11th opportunity :big grin:
david1610
17-05-2012, 14:05
Finally! Phew! Now a (couple of) safe hold(s) please!
At last!!:yahoo: Now, safe hold, please!
Madeline
17-05-2012, 14:06
At last! I think that game could have been very important for Andy's confidence (and maybe Richard's lack of it)
And it was the "vital 7th game" - anyone else remember how Dan Maskell used to say that?
1/11 - great patience shown by Andy - and finally gets the break!!
LS Hunter stream i'm watching, what is it with these commentators.
Gasquet hits a great shot, 'oh wow that was amazing'
Murray hits a great shot, 'thats a great shot, when he gets it right'
They asked before in a very earnest manner, 'has Andy Murray had a better career than Tim Henman?'
They're English commentators, obviously.
david1610
17-05-2012, 14:15
Phew! Let's have another break to avoid any nerves. C'mon Andy!
Tim Henman himself said Andy's career was more impressive than his......and that was 3 years ago. Although he joked Andy still hadn't won a doubles title, of course he has now.
david1610
17-05-2012, 14:18
The TennisTV commentator is one of those who, objectively, is second rate and who is commentating simply because new media, specialist TV channels, etc, have created work for because of increased opportunity i.e. more demand than top quality supply. I do not hold it against him, but, on the other hand, it is so nice when the "A" Team are on duty!
Madeline
17-05-2012, 14:21
The TennisTV commentator is one of those who, objectively, is second rate and who is commentating simply because new media, specialist TV channels, etc, have created work for because of increased opportunity i.e. more demand than top quality supply. I do not hold it against him, but, on the other hand, it is so nice when the "A" Team are on duty!
Isn't he dreadful? Chunters on during all the play, more often than not saying things that are just plain wrong, then is completely silent during the change-overs when there is nothing to watch!
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 14:24
0-40 Ouch! C'mon Andy - you're letting him back into this...!
Sallydaisy
17-05-2012, 14:26
Deuce.
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 14:27
:grrr: double fault - not the best idea really...
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 14:27
Pooooooh!
All the hard work to do all over again....
david1610
17-05-2012, 14:28
Oh dear! Must just focus and break again. Frustrating but ..... get that focus back and break back. C'mon Andy!
Sallydaisy
17-05-2012, 14:28
5-5.
Andy you deserved that break back from Richie; rubbish serving really in that game when you could have got the first set in the bag.
david1610
17-05-2012, 14:30
If Andy is not playing consistently well enough to win the set comfortably, he still has to play well enough not to lose it, if you see what I mean! C'mon Andy!
david1610
17-05-2012, 14:36
Now the pressure is on Andy. Hope his head is in the right place. C'mon Andy!
love hold - why couldn't you do that last time Andy??
tb time
Madeline
17-05-2012, 14:40
503
david1610
17-05-2012, 14:43
That was one thanks to the doubles matches he plays! :)
Well done, Andy - 7-6 :cheer::cheer::cheer::clap::clap::clap:
david1610
17-05-2012, 14:45
Isn't he dreadful? Chunters on during all the play, more often than not saying things that are just plain wrong, then is completely silent during the change-overs when there is nothing to watch!
Not that I know anything about it, but he is reactive.... he thinks commentating is having an emotional response to play. It is, but it is also filling in the non-playing parts of a sports event, as you say, such as comments on how the match is going, background information (i.e. homework done before the match!), etc.
Anyway Andy 6-1 C'mon Andy!
first set to Andy 7-6 great!!
Madeline
17-05-2012, 14:46
Hallelujah!
well done Andy :clap: :clap:
missed the last couple of points - but well done Andy!!
Final break point score in that set 1/13! Let's hope the tie-break Andy comes out for set 2.
1st serve % has to improve for sure but he hung tough and thats what counts , now take this 2nd set Andy , I have stuff to do today :)
Madeline
17-05-2012, 14:49
Not that I know anything about it, but he is reactive.... he thinks commentating is having an emotional response to play. It is, but it is also filling in the non-playing parts of a sports event, as you say, such as comments on how the match is going, background information (i.e. homework done before the match!), etc.
Anyway Andy 6-1 C'mon Andy!
Definitely has not done his homework. Near the start of the match, he was talking about Nadal needing to win this tournament, but that he would have to get through both Djokovic and Federer to do it! And a few minutes later said Andy was in Fed's half. Not to mention saying Andy's best shot is his forehand. . .
david1610
17-05-2012, 14:49
Ok... focus... safe hold.
C'mon Andy!
have to go out on taxi duty shortly - but not for long! Hope Andy can win the second a bit more quickly!
Definitely has not done his homework. Near the start of the match, he was talking about Nadal needing to win this tournament, but that he would have to get through both Djokovic and Federer to do it! And a few minutes later said Andy was in Fed's half. Not to mention saying Andy's best shot is his forehand. . .
To be fair I think he was talking about the French Open then - that Nadal could have to beat Djokovic and Federer now that he's down to no3, and that Andy would be better off in Fed's half.
david1610
17-05-2012, 14:52
The dreaded first service game after a set win..... why is it so predictable? C'mon Andy!
nice time to turn up
cmonnnnnnnnnnn
Sallydaisy
17-05-2012, 14:56
Isn't he dreadful? Chunters on during all the play, more often than not saying things that are just plain wrong, then is completely silent during the change-overs when there is nothing to watch!
Not that I know anything about it, but he is reactive.... he thinks commentating is having an emotional response to play. It is, but it is also filling in the non-playing parts of a sports event, as you say, such as comments on how the match is going, background information (i.e. homework done before the match!), etc.
And (presuming you 2 have the same guy) he went off into a side discussion about Serena and Venus getting through to R4 whilst Muzzah and Dammit were playing!!!! Weird that he's turned off during the changeover but that's perhaps better than listening to more drivel.
Liking this from Carole Bouchard of L'Equipe on twitter:
24 winners, 21 unforced errors for Murray. gasquet at 16/16. FH pretty good for Murray but his brain is boiling too easily still.
david1610
17-05-2012, 14:57
Andy has to really watch this. We know Richie is a confidence player and if he races through the second after a mammoth first set, he will be well set for a third. Andy needs to hold comfortably and get the break back. C'mon Andy!
now finishit
cmonnnnnnnnn
ok tuff hold
now lets look for the oppertunities
Golden Lady
17-05-2012, 15:04
Phew, now let's get that break back!
Madeline
17-05-2012, 15:12
505
break back right about now would be nice, i dont have time for a third set
Sallydaisy
17-05-2012, 15:14
This set has gone; Andy might as well get some practice and win it in the 3rd.
:p
LC the fan
17-05-2012, 15:15
This is agony. Some brilliant shots from Andy and then a loss of concentration. And the serve seems to have gone AWOL.
Let's hope that determination he showed on tuesday revives itself in the 3rd set
1 hr 52 for a set and 5 games :eek:
What is going on? Even if he comes through he's got to play again tomorrow. Not looking likely at the mo. Is it the shadows, the wind????
Madeline
17-05-2012, 15:16
I seem to remember Andy coming back from 1-5 down before. Doubt it's going to happen now, though, I think he has given up on the set.
I seem to remember Andy coming back from 1-5 down before. Doubt it's going to happen now, though, I think he has given up on the set.
Dangerous to give up though and he could do with shortening the match if is going to win........as I said he will have to play again tomorrow then.
little glimmer
cmonnnnnnn
chances
2 bps
cmonnnnnnnnnn
traveller7
17-05-2012, 15:22
Looks like andy has come back from his walkabout...
Madeline
17-05-2012, 15:22
I seem to remember Andy coming back from 1-5 down before. Doubt it's going to happen now, though, I think he has given up on the set.
Or maybe not lol
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 15:23
He's really starting to fight back now - good to see...!
back again! Come on Andy!
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 15:27
Darn!
traveller7
17-05-2012, 15:28
so onto a 3rd again come on andy!
Got a very bad feeling about this unless Andy can find his form of the first set.
traveller7
17-05-2012, 15:31
A nice kitkat here would be good please!
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 15:31
Need a solid start at the beginning of this final set - no loss of concentration this time, please Andy!
traveller7
17-05-2012, 15:34
Andys language is a bit fruity today - he should be careful might get a fine soon
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 15:35
C'mon, stay with him, you can still break here...!
And if Signor Castle doesn't stop apologising for Andy's language, I'm going to go over there and smack him :grrr:
C'mon, stay with him, you can still break here...!
And if Señor Castle doesn't stop apologising for Andy's language, I'm going to go over there and smack him :grrr:
give him a good smack from me too
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 15:37
Eeek! Should have got that one!
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 15:38
Great shot!! Liked that one....
scrapaddict
17-05-2012, 15:41
Oh this is a bit painful to watch - esp the serving. Hope Andy can pull this one out
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 15:43
Well done Carlos Bernardes :)
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 15:49
BP! C'monnnn!
Edit: oooooh, almost!!
david1610
17-05-2012, 15:55
Winner of this game wins the match??? C'mon Andy!
Erm...hope not.
Andy's irritibility is never going to go away, is it?? Sigh.......
Has to be very professional and play THE NEXT POINT if he is going to win this.
C'mon Andy!
Andy will decide who wins this match, Gasquet is the lesser player and he isn't playing at his best. If Andy can be solid on serve he'll definitely win.
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 16:00
Good solid service game - just what was needed!
Now I'm getting peckish - kitkat time?
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 16:05
C'mon, keep at him - he can get a bit flaky under pressure - you're better than him, and he knows it....
What a weird match from Andy.
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 16:10
Oh dear, that one was a bit loose - c'mon get in the zone - focusss!
Madeline
17-05-2012, 16:11
Oh dear, oh dear.
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 16:12
Aaarrrgh! Bad time to get broken, getting towards the critical stage - need to get your concentration back.
That backhand from Gasquet can be pretty devastating!
i've got to go oot!! - not you too Andy!!
david1610
17-05-2012, 16:12
2:50 Too much invested in this to lose. Break back. AND STOP GETTING IRRITATED. It will cause you to lose. C'mon Andy!
traveller7
17-05-2012, 16:13
darn
can't see Andy coming back in this one.
Well I never........Oh! Andy :facepalm:
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 16:16
Wow, gotta give Gasquet credit - he's playing much better now and taking every chance he gets.
Still not writing Andy off, though, he can still pull this back, but he needs to give himself a good talking-to at the change of ends!
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 16:17
Good start! Get a solid hold here, then fight...!
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 16:18
No no no! Went the wrong way there. Must do better!!
bit too late I think
Knightowl :(
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 16:20
Aaargh! Match Point Gasquet and Andy's losing his rag...!
david1610
17-05-2012, 16:20
Mp to Ritchie. C'mon Andy!
I did say he'd have to serve well...
Gasquet has done we'll though.
Clay court tennis is so tough to watch never mind play.
david1610
17-05-2012, 16:21
If I was not an Andy fan I would unfortunately conclude that he was a talented player with a rather flakey character.... sounds like a common description of the winner of this match!
Sallydaisy
17-05-2012, 16:21
GSM Gasquet: 6'7, 6'3, 6'3.
:cry::cry::cry:
A deserved win really; Andy really didn't seem to be in this match.
Richard was good so he really deserved this win.
Just wonder if Andy is ok.
well done Richie - deserved winner today.
Madeline
17-05-2012, 16:21
Oh dear. Just too erratic from Andy.
Thats more big points gone. Nightmare clay court season, nothings gone his way.
disappointing from Andy today , but oh well , next stop RG . Not sure what to expect really :(
Anything to avoid another post match interview with Annabel Lecter! ;)
The dodgy devil dirt with added wind doesn't make for good entertainment.
Andy should get himself off the Salt'n'Sauce cup final and have some fun. :)
GSM Gasquet: 6'7, 6'3, 6'3.
:cry::cry::cry:
A deserved win really; Andy really didn't seem to be in this match.
I wouldn't agree with that assumption.
He should have coasted the first set, it was only the middle third of the match where he was behind and then the last two games.
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 16:24
Oh well. Gasquet came back very strongly, and you've got to give him credit for that. Andy played well over all, but that walkabout at the start of the 2nd set was costly, and there were too many wayward or weak shots towards the end - mixed in with some brilliance as always, but ultimately not good enough.
Disappointing because I really felt he had the beating of Gasquet at the start of the third, and he basically just didn't do enough. His frustration showed, and Gasquet stayed with him, and took every chance he got.
I think it's fair to say Gasquet deserved to win.
traveller7
17-05-2012, 16:25
Disppointing, just bad attittude and Gasquet was the better player I feel.
rubbish clay court season so far, doesnt bode well for RG :(
Golden Lady
17-05-2012, 16:25
Thats more big points gone. Nightmare clay court season, nothings gone his way.
I said it wasn't going well after Monte Carlo, the signs just weren't there but others were saying that it's the big hitters that are the problem for Andy on clay. I actually think he is playing nowhere near the level he played on clay this time last year full stop.
All his "preparations" What preperations ? Andy seems to be going backwards. Another 1000 tournie down the shute. I have been watching the ladies matches Andy could learn a lot about serves from them. Practice with Serena or Maria, they boom aces right left and centre. there is something very wrong here.
david1610
17-05-2012, 16:26
I promised myself I would never judge Andy on clay so..... had better keep to my word.
But what Linda and I agreed on the other day, that Andy might have peaked on clay last season, may unfortunately be true. It is very important I think for Andy to get lucky with the RG draw.
Never mind the points won/lost on clay - it is about going into the rest of the season with confidence.
I also realise that even Lendl is not really going to be able to change Andy's character on court, for good or bad.
I am just totally perplexed with Andy's play at the moment , something is wrong and I just can't put my finger on it!!:confused:.....Gasquet was the better player so well done!!!!
going for a power walk , and vent my frustration :(
Is it time to start questioning Llendl or not?
Andy has probably not been 100% fit for any of this clay court season, which is fair enough, but his game has been pretty poor overall. His first serve particularly, dire.
I think if we're going to see real progress, Llendl needs to put more time into this project. He's going into the French with his worst build up to a grand slam that I can remember for quite a few years.
traveller7
17-05-2012, 16:30
Where is Lendl anyway?!
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 16:31
GSM Gasquet: 6'7, 6'3, 6'3.
:cry::cry::cry:
A deserved win really; Andy really didn't seem to be in this match.
I'm not sure I agree - he was in it. He came up with some fantastic shots at times, just not enough and he allowed Gasquet to play his game a bit too much. He kept peppering Gasquet's backhand, which really wasn't breaking down, and I don't think that was the right call.
I'm actually quite annoyed with him today - well - a bit anyway! I genuinely think he had the winning of this match, and he just didn't do enough to take it. I find it frustrating when he lets his emotions or whatever it is get in the way of winning the match. I like Gasquet, and he's a good player, but Andy should have beaten him today :sad:
There is no doubt in my mind that Andy is still injured. I'm pretty sure that if this tournament wasn't so important in the lead up to RG, he wouldn't have been here. He came out all guns blazing in the hope that he might get a quick win. He played brilliantly at the beginning of the first set but it was obvious that towards the end of the set he was already starting to flag. You can't serve if you have a bad back. Only my opinion and I'm sure the vast majority of you will disagree - just as my husband does!
From the looks of it, Andy's back injury still hasn't healed. :( No way would he normally make 40+ unforced errors in a three set match. His serve and movement were clearly hampered. He may well have lost on clay to Gasquet anyway, but being injured definitely doesn't help.
I'm not expecting much from RG now - probably 4th round/QF at best, but hopefully he will be fully fit for the grass season which realistically is where he's capable of doing much better.
LC the fan
17-05-2012, 16:33
How sad is that ? :crying:
What is wrong with our boy ? :confused:
I just cant put my finger on it - the tennis is there in parts, some of the shots are great but somehow/somewhere something
isn't right - apart from the serve which he just cant get together consistently at all.
Oh well......he may get lucky in Paris.......the green green grass of home beckons
Where is Lendl anyway?!
Isn't he playing a seniors tournament in Prague?
I would certainly say the honeymoon period is over for Mr Lendl and so rightly questions should be asked especially given his lucrative salary.
Another very disappointing loss. That's four in very quick succession now, and if I'm honest since he beat Djokovic in Dubai he has looked incredibly average. The tennis he was playing in the Asian swing last year was infinitely better than what we've seen the last few months - both the hard and now the clay. I can't see him doing anything at the French at all. Hopefully he'll improve for the grass season...
Any ideas what the problem is? From what I've seen, I think his first serve has lost something, not just consistency, and I don't think his returns are as good as they were last year. It's very easy to talk about how he plays in the points but actually well over half of points are decided of the serve, return and first strike.
It is clay though, I remember being amazed every year (except last) how much worse he was on clay, even though it didn't seem to make much difference for a lot of players. I think I put it down to 'movement' - that ethereal thing that someone who has no clue about tennis (ie me) is so crucial for the players.
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 16:34
@Alis & Katie - I really hope you're right! Not entirely convinced, though.....
In terms of his serve, it's been in decline for what, four years now?
Basically since he made it into the top four, it's got worse and worse, and as the rest of his game has improved, this has held him back.
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 16:36
All his "preparations" What preperations ? Andy seems to be going backwards. Another 1000 tournie down the shute. I have been watching the ladies matches Andy could learn a lot about serves from them. Practice with Serena or Maria, they boom aces right left and centre. there is something very wrong here.
Ummm....I'm not sure that would help all that much, to be honest :)
Going into RG like this he will be slaughtered in the first round. Good Draw or bad he is just not playing like a #4, if this goes on he will be overtaken from the 3 guys below him who are playing great tennis, especially Berdych and Ferrer. Andy does not look fit may be too much off court training, he should chill a bit, I agree that Lendl has brought nothing to the table as a matter of fact Andy is nowhere of where he was last year this time. He reached 4 semi Slams, can't see this happening this year. Am I being pessimistic ?
We've seen these sort of matches before.
I, too, don't think he's 100% - and he's not prepared to push things. Some niggles or injury [back? hip? wrist?] can be preying on his mind, affecting his serving movement or how he's lining up his shots. And then throw in other distractions - blisters; the shadows across the court - and they all lead to this type of lacklustre performance.
At least he's not got to face Ferrer. And hopefully he has some time to sort whatever the issues are; hopefully meet up with Lendl; and get back more of a sense of purpose for RG.
Really disappointing though.
traveller7
17-05-2012, 16:42
No not pessimistic just honest I fear
Going into RG like this he will be slaughtered in the first round. Good Draw or bad he is just not playing like a #4, if this goes on he will be overtaken from the 3 guys below him who are playing great tennis, especially Berdych and Ferrer. Andy does not look fit may be too much off court training, he should chill a bit, I agree that Lendl has brought nothing to the table as a matter of fact Andy is nowhere of where he was last year this time. He reached 4 semi Slams, can't see this happening this year. Am I being pessimistic ?
Yes, massively.
He probably is injured, and it was a tough draw to come into off the back of an injury and play in. I'd agree that he might well be doing too much off court, and frankly, thinking too hard about his game. As I see it, he needs Llendl to help his mind, and basic game plans. If Andy honestly thinks he needs to change technique, then he's lost the plot, he's 25.
Golden Lady
17-05-2012, 16:44
Going into RG like this he will be slaughtered in the first round. Good Draw or bad he is just not playing like a #4, if this goes on he will be overtaken from the 3 guys below him who are playing great tennis, especially Berdych and Ferrer. Andy does not look fit may be too much off court training, he should chill a bit, I agree that Lendl has brought nothing to the table as a matter of fact Andy is nowhere of where he was last year this time. He reached 4 semi Slams, can't see this happening this year. Am I being pessimistic ?
Yes I think so. I agree that Andy is nowhere near the level on clay as last year and I have no expectations for RG, but I absolutely believe he will come good for the grass. As for Lendl, I'm sitting that one out for now.
There is no doubt in my mind that Andy is still injured. I'm pretty sure that if this tournament wasn't so important in the lead up to RG, he wouldn't have been here. He came out all guns blazing in the hope that he might get a quick win. He played brilliantly at the beginning of the first set but it was obvious that towards the end of the set he was already starting to flag. You can't serve if you have a bad back. Only my opinion and I'm sure the vast majority of you will disagree - just as my husband does!
Strongly disagree. More Excuses
Way too pessimistic for me. He wasn't thrashed in two easy sets and had he broken Gasquet in that long game in the 3rd set it would be so different. Just one or two points here or there although the problem with his back is a concern.
If Andy continues to chuck away so many break chances whilst serving so badly, there will be plenty more days like today.
KnightOwl
17-05-2012, 16:53
If Andy continues to chuck away so many break chances whilst serving so badly, there will be plenty more days like today.
I wish I could disagree....but I don't :sad:
I think I feel really sad rather than disappointed today. We seem to wait ages to watch Andy play and then it seems to be a case of one win and thats it. Have spent the time watching his some of his great matches and there was an Andy there we just dont seem to see any more. Lets hope he comes back soon.
:crying: Shan't bother to watch the recording when I get home then. Not sure what's wrong. He didn't look injured. People are bound to start questioning the Lendl thing soon and Andy is soooo stubborn that even if it's not working he's likely to just hang on in there maybe to his detriment. I can hardly believe the drop in level on clay from last year. Still I'm not giving up on him. Bring on the green stuff!
I couldn't watch the match as I was at work - I've just got home. But I was keeping an eye on the livescore, and he had so many chances to break! Just wasn't able to take his chances (is that something that can be worked on?). It's not the end of the world, as I'm certain he would have lost to Ferrer tomorrow anyway, so he's only gone out one round early. He gets a bit of extra rest (probably needed, if he's still having trouble with his back) before RG.
Andy in his post match press conference about his back problem "I don't want to go into detail here about it and the treatment but been there for a while, since December"
He is also undecided whether to go to Hampden on Saturday or go straight to Paris and prepare for the French.
Is there a link to his post match comments yet?
Physical worries apart, I'm concerned that he hasn't really built up any momentum [so far] to lead him into the Summer. I fear Queens, Wimbly and the Olympics will be horrendous pressure cauldrons, especially in this jubilee year. And after which, there must be no hint of any spiralling-down, since Andy has so many points to defend....
I hope the Tennis Gods are looking after him.
Well if his back is still causing problems that does go some way to explain the loss today.
I saw most of the match - bar the middle part of the second set. Andy was certainly going for a lot of his shots in the first set - the commies called it being agressive - I suppose it is, but I like to think of it as him taking charge and looking to finish the point off on his terms. Anyway, for the most part I though he played well in the first set. His serve rather went to pieces after that - possibly to do with his back. To his credit, Gasquet played well. I'm sure it's been said many times, but surely for a start Andy needs to focus on the things he can do something about - like his serve (which is the one shot where he has total control) and his temperament (I know, it's easier said than done...).
If his back has been a problem since December, then I guess it's too much to hope that it will get better quickly - but let's hope they can minimise the damage.
Is there a link to his post match comments yet?
some comments here:
http://www.internazionalibnlditalia.com/News/Tennis/2012/Tournament/Murray-Thursday.aspx
patmoren
17-05-2012, 19:49
Very Sad
RoastLamb
17-05-2012, 19:54
Disappointing.
HoopGirl
17-05-2012, 20:07
yes It is sad - I too am starting to feel pressure - god only knows what murray is feeling.
He needs some consistancy and that isnt going to happen if he has what is now a long term back problem.
Guess that expalins why his team werent shouting him on, why he looked miserable or something on his win on Tues.
It isnt helped by federer suddenly deciding he is drinking the elixir of youth and aiming for no 1 again!
Nor are all those ranking points to hold onto and grandslams that need winning this year! EEK!! I feel stressed thinking about it!!
Hey guys, have resisted posting this but DRASTIC measures are called for! It is ridiculous that Andy has had back problems for almost 6 months. There are many, many different therapies/treatments for back issues , including M.A.T. Without going into too much detail muscle activation technique and similar therapies work to basically 'balance' or allow the muscles to go back to their correct length. When this happens the stress is relived from the compensatory area (in this case lower/mid back) and generally for backs' it is strengthening the proper 'core' muscles that will alleviate and 'fix' the problem. I am not very impressed with his injury management and hopefully if this is worked out we may , eventually, see our boy winning a GS. Please, please do something different Andy as we are all on your side and want you to play to the level we know you are capable of........A very concerned fan!
Not great news to read. I wasn't expecting huge things from Andy during the clay season but it has been a bit disappointing. The race rankings really says it all. We have the top 3 building a large lead with Andy currently in 6th and JMDP snapping at his heels. Hopefully he has no long term injuries or problems and that the grass season bodes better for him.
david1610
17-05-2012, 22:31
There is a bright side to all of this .... which is that Andy has conserved himself during his weakest part of the season - clay - in an Olympic (grass) year.
I am hoping he can manage the back and come good during the grass and up to USO stage of the season. Good performances at Wimbly and Flushing Meadows and hopefully the Olympics are the priority this year IMHO.
Knowing about the back causes concern but hopefully he will get the right treatment and management of the condition.
JAMES4578
18-05-2012, 07:36
whilst Andy's performance was disappointing obviously the back issue was a factor. A bit of a worrying time but hopefully Murray will be on better psychical shape for the big events coming up.
While I am as disappointed as anyone else with the results Andy has had recently, I am more concerned that he perhaps has a serious problem with his back that he is valiantly trying to play through. It was obvious when he walked off the court on Tuesday evening that he was struggling and on top of that tweets from Raven suggested that he was also struggling in practice. It must be incredibly frustrating for him, given that this is probably one of the most important years of his playing career, but I really hope that he doesn't do himself irreparable damage trying to carry on playing when he should perhaps be resting.
It must be incredibly frustrating for him, given that this is probably one of the most important years of his playing career, but I really hope that he doesn't do himself irreparable damage trying to carry on playing when he should perhaps be resting.
Good post, Alis. I feel sure this underlying frustration is why we have been seeing a bit of a return of his obvious on-court irritability.
Maybe the back problem is something that can just flare up - then needs rest - but can flare up again etc - in other words, it's long-term but like others have said - it just needs managing. And hopefully he'll be getting good advice about this. I think we need a 'Zen' or 'Omm' smiley!
I feel so sorry for Andy and hope that the back injury can be treated and managed. I hope too that he doesn't struggle on for the sake of ranking points when perhaps a lengthy time out would be highly beneficial. I don't really care if he never wins a grand slam - there are many great players out there never to have won one. I just want to see Andy playing his brilliant and exciting tennis.
Very worrying times for Andy and British tennis. :sad: :grouphug:
I was quite worried, but after the end of the last match yesterday I wound tennis.tv back and watched a bit of Andy's match. And he looked fine to me - the only problem was that Gasquet was playing his best tennis for ages!
All the players have injuries which they have to manage. Verdasco is in Madrid at the moment having laser treatment on his knees (not sure how that's supposed to help), Rafa of course has bad knees and foot, Fed and Tsonga also have back problems, Ferrer hurt his shoulder in MC, DelPo had his knee taped yesterday . . . . Andy is probably in no worse state than any of the others. It seems to go with the job.
yes disappointing and frustrating yesterday - and Andy's back injury is a bit of concern!!
I maybe wrong but i thought Andy said in the interview after the Nalbandian match - he didn't appear to make a big deal about it -
that although not being able to do too much, his main priority was to be fit for Roland Garros -
and playing on clay is very hard on strains/injuries - with the extra movement and shots required with longer rallies (Andy was on court for a long time for two matches) - sudden changes in directions and sliding on court + quickly reacting to unpredictable bounces and balls skidding off the lines all take their toll -
and when carrying any kind of strain/injury - clay can be an unforgiving surface to play on!! - lets hope Andy can recover quickly - for the French open
Rafa always says that playing on clay or grass is better for the body - it's pounding on the hard surfaces that causes the damage! I suppose it depends what kind of injury it is.
Gasquet is playing brilliantly against Ferru too, so if Ferru is having trouble with him, no wonder Andy did!
Seemingly, the hard courts are not good news for Rafa's knees but Andy's knee reacts badly to the movement on clay. As you say, Linda, it probably depends on the nature of the injury.
jamie&andy's fan
18-05-2012, 14:17
One day I hope Andy will get a GS :) I think he can... I really do wonder if it's a mental thing because winning a GS is a HUGE deal and maybe that thought scares him a little ! Plus there are players in the ranking who have got a GS for Example Rafa,Nole,Roger ... so maybe they don't have the same pressure ...
HoopGirl
18-05-2012, 14:45
Have just read neil harman in the times.
Horrified to read Andy was screaming "I hate this game"!
Am really shocked and disgusted to be honest - that is really unacceptable! - swearing is one thing, this is another - no
one forces him to play!
KnightOwl
18-05-2012, 14:53
...I think we need a 'Zen' or 'Omm' smiley!
Nice idea! I'll see if I can find one...!
...Horrified to read Andy was screaming "I hate this game"!
Am really shocked and disgusted to be honest - that is really unacceptable! - swearing is one thing, this is another - no one forces him to play!
Hmmm...I'm not so sure. I think it's just the frustration talking. I've found myself yelling "I hate that cat" sometimes, when she scratches the furniture or brings up a hairball on my freshly vacuumed carpet - but I don't really mean it - I love her to bits :)
D'you not think Andy's comment, assuing they've quoted it right, was along the same lines...?
DaveArneRiise
18-05-2012, 15:07
Have just read neil harman in the times.
Horrified to read Andy was screaming "I hate this game"!
Am really shocked and disgusted to be honest - that is really unacceptable! - swearing is one thing, this is another - no
one forces him to play!
Why nothing wrong with venting your emotions. Better out than in as they say. And I'm sure like most tennis players Andy has died a thousand deaths out on court.
Well, yesterday after Andy's match, one of his 'fans' on Twitter was going mad tweeting "I hate you Andy, I ******* hate you!". I didn't think it was acceptable and unfollowed her.
KnightOwl
18-05-2012, 15:39
Well, yesterday after Andy's match, one of his 'fans' on Twitter was going mad tweeting "I hate you Andy, I ******* hate you!". I didn't think it was acceptable and unfollowed her.
Well, yes, that's a little different - I would have done the same!
Have just read neil harman in the times.
Horrified to read Andy was screaming "I hate this game"!
Am really shocked and disgusted to be honest - that is really unacceptable! - swearing is one thing, this is another - no
one forces him to play!
Oh, come on - that's just pure frustration talking - why is it unacceptable? Have you never said, 'I hate this job'? I bet most people have. Unfortunately, Andy does his job in front of thousands of people every day - most of the rest of us don't! I'm one of the few who would rather he showed a degree of emotion on court - often when he doesn't he tends to go flat.
Golden Lady
18-05-2012, 16:37
Oh, come on - that's just pure frustration talking - why is it unacceptable? Have you never said, 'I hate this job'? I bet most people have. Unfortunately, Andy does his job in front of thousands of people every day - most of the rest of us don't! I'm one of the few who would rather he showed a degree of emotion on court - often when he doesn't he tends to go flat.
I know what you're saying Alis but I so wish Andy wouldn't wear his heart on his sleeve so much on court as I really believe it's not helping him. I think his opponents can feed off his negativity. That said, we are who we are and maybe Andy can't change that part of who he is on court. Wish he could though, cos I think it would help him if he could.
Not only does it help his opponents but it's the main reason why a lot of people say they don't like him :crying:
Golden Lady
18-05-2012, 16:44
Not only does it help his opponents but it's the main reason why a lot of people say they don't like him :crying:
Yes I think you're right unfortunately. I was hoping that Lendl might help Andy with this, still hope he can.
HoopGirl
18-05-2012, 18:50
in my opinion swearing is part of the frustration in the game, saying 'I hate thisgame 'isn't.
I have never heard Harman report that before and think that this is really not okay to say in public.
It doesn't bode well for his state of mind I think or his public image.
I have often thought 'hate this job'but never ever said it in front of the public. I would thinkit unprofessional in the extreme.
My job is stressful likealot of peoples and a lot more rests upon it than andy's but peopledoneed to manage their feelings in public.
Being perfect is very difficult. And I'm more disgusted with Neil Harman for reporting this, how many people would have known this. I'm sorry I think there are many ways of interrupting what Andy said. He could have meant I hate my game, I hate the way this game is going, I hate the way I'm playing this game, I hate the pain this game is giving me, the pain this game is causing me. Some of us and I'm one needs to get it out or it festers and I can't function. Andy is similar and needs to let it out. This swearing issue is ridiculous as most or all the players swear, as Fed has said. In the Nalbandian match Nalbandian was swearing more than Andy but in Spanish. The Commentators keep apologising for Andy and we can't hear him.
MurrayAOne
18-05-2012, 19:41
I was quite worried, but after the end of the last match yesterday I wound tennis.tv back and watched a bit of Andy's match. And he looked fine to me - the only problem was that Gasquet was playing his best tennis for ages!
All the players have injuries which they have to manage. Verdasco is in Madrid at the moment having laser treatment on his knees (not sure how that's supposed to help), Rafa of course has bad knees and foot, Fed and Tsonga also have back problems, Ferrer hurt his shoulder in MC, DelPo had his knee taped yesterday . . . . Andy is probably in no worse state than any of the others. It seems to go with the job.
I don't agree with any of this. Yes injuries are part of the job and to be managed accordingly. No one knows that more than Andy. He has managed a knee condition all his life. I don't think you can compare players injuries in this way and I don't think it can be assumed as to what degree Andy is affected just by watching him. We all know he is a man of integrity and not one to make excuses. If he says he has a back injury he has a back injury. I am sure his team will advise him accordingly on the possible effects on his performance. I hope he rests until fully recovered.
I never said he didn't have an injury :confused: I know he does. As do most of the other players!
MurrayAOne
18-05-2012, 19:49
I never said he didn't have an injury :confused: I know he does. As do most of the other players!
To be more clear. If Andy says he has an injury that effects his performance negatively then, for me, that's the way it is. Again, other players injuries are not comparable. How can one be compared with another in this way? Still not sure what you're saying really.
I'm just saying that we shouldn't be too worried about this. There are acute injuries, such as broken bones, that keep a player out for a few months. Then there are the ongoing injuries, which most of the players have all the time and have to try to manage. This seems to fall into this category.
MurrayAOne
18-05-2012, 19:53
I think he would be very unwise to categorise an injured back under ongoing injury to be managed and I hope he doesn't.
Well, Fed always says that he has an ongoing back problem but he never misses a match. Although having said that, I have a back problem at the moment and have temporarily cancelled my membership of my tennis club. But of course I am not a professional tennis player. None of us know the extent of it, and we just have to trust that Andy has taken proper advice (and he can surely afford the best) - if it's OK to play he will, and if it's not he won't.
When Andy said I hate this game, he was definitely referring to that particular game.
MurrayAOne
18-05-2012, 20:20
Well, Fed always says that he has an ongoing back problem but he never misses a match. Although having said that, I have a back problem at the moment and have temporarily cancelled my membership of my tennis club. But of course I am not a professional tennis player. None of us know the extent of it, and we just have to trust that Andy has taken proper advice (and he can surely afford the best) - if it's OK to play he will, and if it's not he won't.
I agree entirely with your last comments. Regarding Fed? I think he was grossly unfair regarding Andy's exit form the O2 through injury. He plays on through injury. He then had to exit a tournament early himself shortly after with an injury he obviously couldn't 'play through'. That was his right - as it was Andy's. No one player should judge another over injuries for neither can know what the other feels.
Injuries affect everybody differently. I snapped my Cruciate Ligament in my knee two years ago this month, and i'm only now starting to get back to some sort of fitness. This injury keeps most footballers out for at least 6-9 months and many don't recover and have to give up. Some lunatics can survive without a cruciate. It's a funny old thing the human body.
I agree with you there, MA1 - in fact I think that Federer is the only player who has had the temerity to judge other players in this way.
david1610
18-05-2012, 20:59
I do not want Andy to be perfect, regarding behaviour, but I want him to behave in a way that helps not hinders him.
We have seen the tourneys - particuarly GSs - where Andy seems to have been able to control his emotions - or certainly not worn them on his sleeve - and when he does this best it helps him to progress more smoothly.
Saying I wish he would cut our his boorish behaviour is not meant to morally reproach him, but sensible strategy!
What we have seen the last month or so is, whether it is the back or whatever, Andy is falling to players in the top twenty on clay.
It is still not the end of the world. Don't forget that that considerable gap between the top four and the rest (ok not race at the moment) depends on the GSs so let's hope Andy has a respectable RG and a good Wimbledon and US Open.
And once again, we have to be ready for him to get it wrong before he gets it right, if he and Lendl are changing something. Plus the back.
Yesterday he played at the level in patches. It is better than being completely off the boil.
Give him a bit of slack.
I think we need a 'Zen' or 'Omm' smiley!
Sending good vibes to Andy. http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8Kp394Xt-4E/TQ8_dsuTHAI/AAAAAAAAAEc/w0bbRyOpnM4/s1600/smiley_zen.gif
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