AUSTRALIAN OPEN 2017 - 16-29 Jan - Main discussion thread - Men's

[lynne]

Fantastic match, brilliant play from both players, shame one has to loose...Well Done Rafa!!!....Really feel for Grigor but Keep it Going Grigor, your time will come!!!....:thumbup::thumbup:

[roytennisfan]

Well done Rafa ...fighting display, tough Grigor ...so close!

If Roger Wins he will become the second oldest slam winner, if Rafa wins he will become the 9th oldest....just behind Roger in 8th!

[themass15]

Wonderful match. So pleased Rafa won but what will he have left in the tank?

[RosieBear]

Fantastic battle. Congrats to Rafa and bad luck to Dimi, not the result he wanted, but a coming of age match for him nonetheless - fought harder than I've ever seen him, he will learn a lot from this, and hopefully have a positive season.

[Linda]

Epic :clap: :clap: :clap:

[JAMES4578]

It became incredible match and little between them in the end,pity for Dimi but well done Rafa and another meeting with Fed! A lot of credit to Dimi who certainly came close but Nadal stepped up in the closing stages,hopefully Grigor keeps moving forward! Remains to be seen if Fed will have advantage due to length of match.

[banskogirl]

Wow Rafa! :yahoo: and a brilliant last set!

[-J-]

the final can have no good outcome from my perspective, if you put a gun to my head id plumb for the goat but only after checking to see if the gun was loaded

[Bardot]

The Australian Open love it when a plan comes together. "Endure"? Disrespectful or what? :rolleyes:

http://i63.tinypic.com/2n6gd8j.png

[patlowe]

That match turned out to be so good. Best one in this tournament so far IMO. Compulsive viewing so I'm now going like crazy to catch up...having folks in for dinner tonight! I really wanted Dimi to win as I've said before, really would like to have seen a new name on the trophy. He came close. That was a wow game Rafa played in the final set when he was facing break points. As for the final, I'm neutral! I'll hope for a good match and que cera, cera!

[Jan]

They didn't like what they had in between??????????????
edit - sorry this was in reply to Bardot's post with the AO tweet.

[-J-]

The Australian Open love it when a plan comes together. "Endure"? Disrespectful or what? :rolleyes:


everything that's wrong with nadal Federer era in one simple word

[Bardot]

And for the perfect ending to their "dream final", "the final everyone wanted" and in Roddick's words "the most important final ever", they're going to sand RLA completely smooth overnight on Saturday. :p ;)

[HoopGirl]

Wow - just in and seems that this went on for hours!
The bits I saw were great. What was the score in the end?

[Alis]

The Australian Open love it when a plan comes together. "Endure"? Disrespectful or what? :rolleyes:

http://i63.tinypic.com/2n6gd8j.png

Is that really an official AQ tweet? If so, whoever wrote it should hang his/her head in shame - it is shockingly disrespectful to the other players!:grrr:

[Bardot]

Is that really an official AQ tweet? If so, whoever wrote it should hang his/her head in shame - it is shockingly disrespectful to the other players!:grrr:
It was tweeted after yesterday's semi-final and subsequently deleted because, I assume from the criticism it received. The picture didn't go to waste and the sentiment is still there in this tweet after today's match. ;)

http://i63.tinypic.com/3446ukw.png

[Alis]

A strange Oz Open and certainly history making, in that it will probably be the last time we will see Venus v Serena and Roger v Rafa finals - I certainly hope so anyway! Who on earth would have predicted that two weeks ago?

[Jan62]

It was an enthralling match, Grigor played the best I think I've ever seen him. But full credit to Rafa, that was a vintage performance. My worry is how much he'll have left for the final. Between him and Fed I would definitely prefer Rafa to win, but I have a sneaky suspicion that the smug one will do it - unless his niggling injury gives him problems. No doubt he'll see fit to take another MTO off court if it does. I have another engagement on Sunday (hastily arranged after Andy got knocked out), so will only see about the first hour. Which might be a blessing!

[themass15]

I am not sorry about the finals. It is probably the last hoorah for both. Still maintain the best match I was ever lucky enough to be was the Fed v Nadal final in 2008. Have had tinnitus ever since after shouting for Rafa!

[LC the fan]

Shame for Grigor - I think that was by far the best I have seen him play - consistent and very determined. I always believed he would take a slam some day but the last couple of years he has faded a little.
So great to see him back and threatening the rankings.

As for the final - I really don't feel too strongly - Rafa has always been one of my favourites so I suppose I want him to win but I think Roger will do it - we shall see. I wonder how much we could have got at the bookies if we bet on a Williams sisters ladies final and Rafe v Fed. ???

[JennieF]

Oh my goodness. I feel like a time-traveller who has just stepped back in time. Two amazing finals to come, with four amazing troopers!

[RosieBear]

I am not sorry about the finals. It is probably the last hoorah for both.

This is how I feel too, tm15 (although fear Fed could also be a threat at Wimbo). I really like Dimi and Stan but was rooting for the old timers. I just feel that, whatever anyone thinks about either of them, there can simply be no denying that they have both brought an incredible amount to the game. It seems only fitting to me that they have, what will be in all likelihood, one last battle royale. I prefer to win Fed because I think his game style is just a joy to watch, but may the best great champion win.

I agree that the Aus Open tweet was beyond disgusting to all other players, especially Andy and Novak, but players can't be blamed for the nonsense that it is said/written in relation to them, so as annoying it is I just try and ignore the fawning.

[ljs]

I too thought Dimi gave that one his all , havent seen him play better I dont think , credit to Rafa , such a fighter he is !!

It really does feel like stepping back in time tho .

[harriet]

Dani must be doing a good job, how long has he been with Dimi? dani has sometimes looked very forlorn but in much better shape today.
dimi's exuberance was his undoing, just going for a bit too much, but so nearly there. i thought rafa looked positively green with exhaustion, and after a longer game than RF's and a day less to recover i think RF must have a real chance to overcome a rival.

[RoastLamb]

Vamos Rafa!!! :taz::skippy::boomerang:

[JerryD]

It was a great but stressful match for me as I really wanted Raffa to win. I thought dimitrov played better than I've seen him play before. He has worked hard in the off season, I'm hoping he can keep it up. Danny annoyed me during the match as he seemed to be timing raffas serve and then shouting to the umpire. I don't deny that Raffa takes too long but I really think it isn't for the opponent's box to get involved. If Dimi had and issue he should challenge it himself without the watch staring and shouting from Danny. I don't think this is Dimi's fault probably just Danny getting carried away in the match, but it bothered me. Nadal was playing great too, in the past few years I think as well as lacking physically sometimes he has been lacking confidence. I hope this match shows him it's not over yet, builds him back up because the sport wouldn't be the same without him, I've missed him. The embrace between the two at the net was a lovely moment, it showed the spirit of the match. I hope dimi is pleased with his performance and more than anything I hope that nadal is not too tired for the final. It seems bizarre and unfair for the semis to be on different days so one winner gets more time off than the other, I prefer them on the same day.

[cazza99]

Rafa is the slight bookies favourite for the final.

[themass15]

Rafa is the slight bookies favourite for the final.

I saw that and was very surprised after that marathon encounter.

[Alis]

Danny annoyed me during the match as he seemed to be timing raffas serve and then shouting to the umpire. I don't deny that Raffa takes too long but I really think it isn't for the opponent's box to get involved. If Dimi had and issue he should challenge it himself without the watch staring and shouting from Danny. I don't think this is Dimi's fault probably just Danny getting carried away in the match, but it bothered me.

I think if I had been Dani I would have been shouting at the umpire too. I like Rafa but he takes far, far too long between points, particularly in stressful moments. I find it annoying - his opponent finds it annoying - spectators find it annoying. It's about time that umpires clamped down on it but most of them don't. Rafa gets away with it time and time again. Sorry - rant over!

[Pam]

I'm afraid that I am switching off from the AO now both men and women .

Looking forward to seeing Andy recovered and refreshed and playing well again soon :)

[JerryD]

I think if I had been Dani I would have been shouting at the umpire too. I like Rafa but he takes far, far too long between points, particularly in stressful moments. I find it annoying - his opponent finds it annoying - spectators find it annoying. It's about time that umpires clamped down on it but most of them don't. Rafa gets away with it time and time again. Sorry - rant over!

I agree that Raffa takes it too far but it's not the DC, there is no coaching so I don't think the coach should be getting involved from the box. That is up to Dimi. I don't agree with coaches recommending challenges either. Raffa isn't on but it's for his opponent to complain not for his box

[supergran]

Amazed at the four finalists. It is like waking up in the past but says something about staying power, fitness and commitment although think each of them has had some physical problems. Won't be sitting down to watch the finals but may glance at them now and then. Have packing to do and a certain supergramps to deliver to a Nursing Home on Sunday. I would like Venus and Rafa to win. Don't like t'other two.

[angiebabez]

I think if I had been Dani I would have been shouting at the umpire too. I like Rafa but he takes far, far too long between points, particularly in stressful moments. I find it annoying - his opponent finds it annoying - spectators find it annoying. It's about time that umpires clamped down on it but most of them don't. Rafa gets away with it time and time again. Sorry - rant over!



Agree with every word.

[Josephine]

I watched this match on record over a long time and with various activities interrupting it. Thought the quality at the end in particular was very high. I was supporting Dimi for no reason except that is how I felt during the match. Think I wanted him to have the chance unlike Rafa who has had so many. I also think the long delays in serving at crucial points amount to gamesmanship.

No idea who I want to win in the final - so will just watch for the tennis which hopefully will be exceptional. Crowd atmosphere will be great too. Wonder who will be getting most of the support??:whistle:

[LC the fan]

No doubt the Fed addicts will lead the support. I have never been keen on Roger but part of that is my dislike for his sycophantic supporters who absolutely dominate at every event, especially indoor ones.
OK we are all mad keen Andy fans, but we can always appreciate good play from any other player and we certainly don't intimidate - (except perhaps at DC!)

[ljs]

agree LC , some of his fans are just ridiculous !!!
I dont think alot of his " fans " really know too much about tennis , or even watch it , they just wanna love the best ever .

[RosieBear]

Yeah but as you always rightly say ljs, everyone views things through their own lens. I bet fans of other plays think they are the reasonable ones and Andy fans are ott (and obviously they would be wrong :rolling:). I reckon every player has a mix of some balanced fans and some saddo obsessives, but even if Fed does have more than his fair share of the latter, I just think it's not his fault, so it doesn't really bother me.

[cazza99]

oop for Sunday - http://www.ausopen.com/en_AU/scores/schedule/index.html

Final starts not before 8.30 am after mixed doubles final (which starts at 5.00 am).

[ljs]

I admit im ott at times regarding Andy , but at least I know a bit about what i speak regarding him and his game
But yes , your right its not Rogers fault that alot of his fans are crazy :lol:

[banskogirl]

I agree that Raffa takes it too far but it's not the DC, there is no coaching so I don't think the coach should be getting involved from the box. That is up to Dimi. I don't agree with coaches recommending challenges either. Raffa isn't on but it's for his opponent to complain not for his box


Only got to see the earlier sets today and was interesting to see, after all the fuss from Dani, that Dimi's service timing wasn't much shorter than Rafa's!

Don't think Dani's reaction to the umpire was much different to Kim's potty mouth or Andy's box's fist pumping really, although as Rosie says, it's all relative and off course OK if it's Andy's!!

Maureen, happy packing of both necessities :) and I hope you really enjoy your trip, you deserve this break so much! :grouphug:

[Jan]

I'm fairly ambivalent about the outcome of the final.
Will miss most of the live action. Might watch the highlights!

[clancy]

Been a long week without Andy.Woke up with a sad face, wishing it was his day. Will just watch the highlights, hope Rafa edges it but feel it's Roger's after his long rest. x

[themass15]

I have been awake since 2.12 a.m. and up since just after 5 p.m. Watched the mixed doubles final which was disappointing. Let us hope it is Rafa's day. Vamos!

[RosieBear]

Fed has been my pick for the title ever since I watched him make mincemeat out of poor Berdy. I'm going to stick with that despite Fed's losing h2h with Rafa. Fed's playing a super aggressive style these days, will be interesting to see if Rafa can handle it. In recent finals Fed got tight against Nole, but nerves will be evenly split between Fed and Rafa as both in the same boat looking for long awaited chance.....

[themass15]

Here we go, vamos Rafa!!!!!

[themass15]

Advantage Roger

[RosieBear]

Wow some game Fed!! In full flight now.

[RosieBear]

Not a bad consolidation either

[Alis]

First set to Fed 6-4!

[Jane]

OUCH :sad:

[JAMES4578]

Fed certainly the more impressive thus far,really raised game from middle of set-still could be long way to go!

[RosieBear]

First set Fed in only half an hour. Fed flying the flag for aggressive tennis - taking Rafa's time away.

[Jane]

Rafa breaks :)

[themass15]

And Rafa gets a break! Now hold

[Speedy Hawk]

Rafa now break up 2nd set. So far it repeating same past.

[JAMES4578]

Nadal's got bit of momentum in the 2nd but Fed's level has dropped a bit.

[themass15]

Held serve but made very heavy weather of it.

[RosieBear]

Fed's level has plummeted.

[JAMES4578]

Looks like Nadal running away with 2nd,Fed had chances to break back and now poor service game.

[themass15]

One break back

[Speedy Hawk]

Roger double fault more than usual. Can't remember if he double fault more than usual against Rafa is normal. Been too long. Probably yes.

[Speedy Hawk]

Rafa win 2nd set. Now 1 set all.

[JAMES4578]

Not as decisive as might've been but Nadal takes 2nd 3rd, hopefully both play well in 3rd!

[Jane]

:boogie:

[themass15]

Best of 3 now

[Alis]

It would be good to see them both play at their best in the third. I venture to say that it hasn't really lived up to its billing so far!

[themass15]

Some good rallies at times

[roytennisfan]

Wow amazing game, those 3 identical aces on bp especially, can Roger break after that big save?

[JAMES4578]

Crucial hold from Fed there,however his reactions at the net seemed a bit slow at times.

[RosieBear]

Good hold by Fed despite several clangers at the net. Rafa's loopy moonball play does my head in.

[Speedy Hawk]

It would be good to see them both play at their best in the third. I venture to say that it hasn't really lived up to its billing so far!

Rafa is bad match up for Roger so most match like this. Rafa keep hitting ball back when other player don't and cause Roger make more error than usual. So we see lot errors mistake etc.

There still some good play in some points but not whole match. Bit pieces around here and there.

[roytennisfan]

Wow amazing game, those 3 identical aces on bp especially, can Roger break after that big save?

Yes he can 2-0

[JAMES4578]

Fed definitely with a spring in his step right now, easy hold for 3-0!

[Jennan]

Quite enjoying this match when I don't really care who wins. On balance would probably prefer Rafa.

[JAMES4578]

Fed up 4-1 now but Nadal has kept it to single break,Roger won last few service games convincingly though.

[Speedy Hawk]

Wow. Break Rafa again.

[RosieBear]

Fed finding his form again :clap:

[Jane]

Fed gets third set :sad:

[Speedy Hawk]

So far 2-1 set to Roger. Next 4th set.

[JAMES4578]

Tighter there but Fed finally closes out set, taking it on a breadstick! Question is though can he keep it going and you'd imagine Nadal will have more resistance in 4th. Roger found top form after saving initial bps whilst Rafa struggled.

[RosieBear]

Fed back in the groove - if he stays there the title is his. Rafa's only hope is for Fed's level to drop again.

[Linda]

Rafa is tired. Friday's match should have been the final :sad:

[Jennan]

Fed is definitely the crowd favourite.

[RosieBear]

Rafa is tired. Friday's match should have been the final :sad:

Sorry Linda but that's just unfair imo - Fed got past Stan a higher ranked player and GS champ more quickly than Rafa got past Dimi. That's just tough, and Fed most definitely deserves his place in the final.

[Linda]

I'm not saying he doesn't - I'm saying that Friday's was a better match.

[Jane]

Rafa breaks

[JAMES4578]

Could match turn again, Nadal breaks for 3-1.

[themass15]

Come on Rafa! You can still do it!

[RosieBear]

Incredible from Rafa to win that last point :clap:

[themass15]

Get the 2nd break Rafa

[LC the fan]

This could still go either way. If I had to I would put my money on Fed....but not too much, Rafa is a fighter

[LC the fan]

Come on Rafa...take it to a fifth

[JAMES4578]

Looks like we're going 5 at 5-2 up, Nadal's certainly stepped up and Fed not so strong right now.

[Jane]

Two sets all :yahoo: :yahoo:

Go Rafa :thumbup:

[Speedy Hawk]

2 set all now. Next 5th set.

[Linda]

Yes! Come on Rafa! :swingin:

[themass15]

Vamos!

[roytennisfan]

Do they need to tighten up these medical timeouts? in both semi and final? Hard to say if gamesmanship comes in

[Linda]

Good start! Keep it up, Rafa! :swingin:

[themass15]

Just keep holding your serve

[Jane]

2-0 to Rafa

[JAMES4578]

Nadal seems to have clear advantage,Fed had 3bps but unable to capitalise.

[themass15]

Who said that wasn't a good match?

[Linda]

Yes, definitely very exciting now!

[Speedy Hawk]

Tight but Rafa manage hold on.

[themass15]

Vamos Rafa, hang on!!!!

[Linda]

Oh no!

[RosieBear]

Wahey Fed strikes back!!

[JAMES4578]

Nadal can't escape this time and now Fed easily holds for 4-3!

[themass15]

Reckons this is Fed's now

[RosieBear]

Great battle - awesome to see them both playing so well :clap:

[Linda]

Come on Rafa!

[RosieBear]

Oooo Fed's looking super aggressive again...

[Hawkeye]

Great stuff from Rafa after that amazing rally!

[RosieBear]

Great stuff from Rafa after that amazing rally!

Yeah fair play. Tough response.

[JAMES4578]

Some amazing tennis but Fed finally gets break for 5-3 and will try and serve it out!

[Linda]

:crying:

[RosieBear]

'Ave it Fed :swingin:

[RosieBear]

Rafa's going to make this sooooo tough for Fed...

[cazza99]

Come on Rafa

[Jane]

:crying: :crying: Fed wins :crying: :crying:

[Speedy Hawk]

He did it! He really did it! Wow. He did it!

[Linda]

:crying::crying::crying::crying::crying::crying::c rying::crying::crying:

Great match in the end, though. The crowd got their money's worth.

Poor Rafa :crying:

[cazza99]

It must be nice for Fed's oldest twins to be able to appreciate seeing their Dad win a slam live.

[RosieBear]

Fantastic battle and happy for Fed to come through. Standout player of tournament and fully deserved the win - not surprised he overcame h2h with his uber aggressive game and tbh I'm not sad Andy didn't face him (will worry about Wimbo when it comes).

Congrats to Rafa on making that final.

[lynne]

Two Iconic players.......shame one has to loose.....a joy to watch , that's what's makes them who they are....regardless of all else!:thumbup:

[Speedy Hawk]

That tough match to watch! I need break lol!

[themass15]

Wow what a match. Got to hand it to Fed.

[JAMES4578]

Certainly tight there but Federer finally takes 5th 6-3 to win 18th slam, really is amazing (whether one of favs or not) after 6 months out and also in 5. I thought he'd probably never won another slam but you never write him off. Whilst maybe didn't seem match fit was fresher. Obviously pity for Nadal who came close to turning it around after 3rd, maybe semi did take toll in the end but still back in big time. Match was a bit patchy early on but certainly became very exciting.

[RosieBear]

Long live the Big 4 - best band of players ever witnessed:worship:

[Speedy Hawk]

Shame Eurosport don't have subtitles for speech both Rafa and Roger.

[themass15]

Long live the Big 4 - best band of players ever witnessed:worship:

Hear hear RB, that final showed just what we have missed for the last year or so.

[dewster99]

I really hate him but he's just so good when he's taking the ball so early like that

[RosieBear]

Lovely speech from Rafa - must be so difficult to talk so soon after a tough loss, but very gracious.:thumbup:

[Linda]

Yes - he looked very disappointed but managed to give a lovely speech.

[WimbledonWestie]

Would've preferred a Rafa win but hey , they both deserve all the accolades for what they've accomplished over the years as half of the big 4. Privileged to have seen them all play live.
Last time Federer won a slam- Andy won the next one. He also succeeded Federer as champion. I'd take a repeat!

[themass15]

Yes - he looked very disappointed but managed to give a lovely speech.

Always the gentleman

[roytennisfan]

Well can't deny it was good to see these two back, well done Roger, tough Rafa

[RosieBear]

Fed and Rafa respect each other so much. But then I think most tennis players (including Fed!) are nice people. Being an individual sport they empathise which each other - they've all had their highs and their lows. Personally, while I find some superficially irritating, I don't think there's any player on the men's tour that I think is a bad/horrible person.
Thoroughly enjoyed this final for several reasons including the warmth between Rafa and Fed.

[Malaiseous]

Would've preferred a Rafa win but hey , they both deserve all the accolades for what they've accomplished over the years as half of the big 4. Privileged to have seen them all play live.
Last time Federer won a slam- Andy won the next one. He also succeeded Federer as champion. I'd take a repeat!

That would be perfect!

[-J-]

glad that's over cant say I'm pleased the goat won, but am delighted nadal didn't ;)

[Bardot]

That certainly sounded like a farewell from Fed and who would blame him. He knows what can happen in 12 months and given his age why not stop at the top rather than losing in the third round to the likes of Seppi.

[RosieBear]

That certainly sounded like a farewell from Fed and who would blame him. He knows what can happen in 12 months and given his age why not stop at the top rather than losing in the third round to the likes of Seppi.

My feelings too - go out with a bang not a whimper.....I fear that he may eye Wimbledon as well, but he won't be as fresh going into that, so think this may be the last big win for Fed.

[LC the fan]

It hurts, but I do have to say that Fed was supreme today. To come back like that after 6 months, fight your way through a 5-set tournament, get through a tough semi and a five set final..well. Well done Roger Federer !
Undoubtedly the goat, for now anyway. 18 slams ! Not sure that will ever be surpassed

[Bardot]

"We are the favourites for the tie"......just had to check who the Canuck was talking about. :p ;)

[-J-]

That certainly sounded like a farewell from Fed and who would blame him. He knows what can happen in 12 months and given his age why not stop at the top rather than losing in the third round to the likes of Seppi.
interesting decision for him to make but hes not short of self confidence he may well think theres still another one in him

[lovetennis]

Really enjoyed the match. Glad it lived up to the billing and went the distance. Was rooting for a Rafa win but got say congratulations to Fed, it really is a phenomenal achievement. Didn't see the speeches si will watch them later. Always a lot if respect between these two so not surprised people are saying they were good speeches.

[murrayfan89]

I'm not really taking the news very well. There is no argument for Federer not being the open era greatest player to be had anymore in my opinion.

[RosieBear]

Very interesting comments from Rusedski (well he was overdue;)) regarding court being sped up and how this has favoured old school players who like to come to the net - obviously including Evo. Apparently done to favour the Aussie players such as Nick K. Great news that they are here to stay - will force more attacking play and faster matches.

[Hawkeye]

Happy with the result, still feel slightly soiled cheering on Roger, but I'll get over it!

[Speedy Hawk]

I am rewatching match on BBC 2 Highlights now. Hopefully they show speech from Rafa and Roger cos BBC have subtitles (Eurosport doesn't).

I want know what they say.

[Jan]

Just home.
Congrats to Roger.
Am recording the highlights, so will watch them later.

[RosieBear]

Federer: "Tennis is a tough sport and we don't have draws but if there were I would be happy to share this trophy with you tonight, Rafa"

Yeah, we believe you Fed ;)...but nice words nonetheless :thumbup:

[Alis]

Fantastic achievement for Fed - well done to him. Indeed, well done to both of them. I was disappointed in the match in the first two sets but it certainly got better and lived up to its billing in the end. I'm not a Fed lover but I do think he deserved the win tonight. I sincerely hope it is Fed's last hurrah though - retire on a high Fed!

[HoopGirl]

What happens to rankings now that Roger and Rafa got to the finals?

[HoopGirl]

My feelings too - go out with a bang not a whimper.....I fear that he may eye Wimbledon as well, but he won't be as fresh going into that, so think this may be the last big win for Fed.

Hope Andy gets Wimbledon again!

[Alis]

Take note Andy - both Roger and Rafa spent several weeks in Oz acclimatising themselves before the tournament started - maybe something to think about next year.

[Bardot]

There was a graphic earlier in the week produced by Hawkeye which compiles stats on court surfaces and RLA was just behind Shanghai and both were considerably faster than all other hard courts on tour. Remind me again who won Shanghai last year without dropping a set. :whistle:

[themass15]

Hope Andy gets Wimbledon again!

Don't we all!

[Hawkeye]

There was a graphic earlier in the week produced by Hawkeye which compiles stats on court surfaces and RLA was just behind Shanghai and both were considerably faster than all other hard courts on tour. Remind me again who won Shanghai last year without dropping a set. :whistle:I was thinking, "no I didn't"...

[Alis]

I had to go out to walk the dogs so have only just heard the speeches. I do think it was possibly a farewell Australia speech from Roger.

[patlowe]

Well there we have it. Enjoyed the 5th set very much. Was pretty indifferent to the match up until then. Congrats Roger and well played Rafa. Time to move on. Not often I ever say this, but I am glad that tournament is over! Thoughts are very much with the DC and can't wait until next weekend. And no more all-nighters till IW!!

[super8]

Well - I didn't expect Federer to win that!

Didn't expect it before the match, even when he won the first set - thought Nadal was then going to win in 4 - which seemed confirmed when he won the second set. Even with Federer 2-1 up, didn't think he would win - when it went to 2-2 was pretty certain he wouldn't - and when Nadal went up a break in the final set was almost sure he wouldn't!

So - I guess the match scored highly on drama and finally delivered in excitement and quality combined towards the end. Those still thinking that Fedal finals are the stuff of legends will be happy at the 'classic match' bracket. I personally think their classic matches are few and far between. But they are unquestionably great box office - and of course being big 4 players. The irony is that players are often defined by their rivals - and their careers are hugely intertwined.

Commiserations to Rafa, his family, team and fans. Rafa got so close! Has been a good comeback for him, and one to build on no doubt.

Congratulations to Fed, family, team and fans - they all kept believing, and are rewarded. Such a big win.

And a deserved one too - having beaten Keith, Stan and now Rafa in 5 sets. He had the tougher draw, and amazingly pulled a very challenging tournament out of the bag.

By the way - Sampras was also 17th seed when he won the US Open in 2002.

Everyone hold their collective noses at the inevitable G**T comments. I don't believe in that at all. Glorified pub debate and ultimately pointless. The media have spun this thing - makes for good writing for them.

It's food for thought for those (me included!) who thought any of the following:

- Federer would never win a slam again;
- Federer would never beat Nadal in a slam match again;
- A 35-year old could not win a slam;

After all, there are also many who thought Andy would never win SW19, would never be world number 1, might have limited time left on the tour. It's one to prove that players - and especially the big 4 - should never be fully written off.

[harriet]

To my surprise, I have become a fan of Roger Federer whom I shall now call RF not fedX, tho the fans are still pretty loathsome, I really enjoyed today's final. Roger seems to have developed his play and when he attacks he is almost unbeatable. Rafa is undoubtedly a terrific fighter in a rather obvious way, whereas RF ups his game unobtrusively and prevails without the gesticulations etc from rafa, whose gameface is frightening. I was so pleased that RF came back from a break down, came back to serving aces and finally managing to serve out the set - fortunately he didn't have the chance to go in for that collapsing on his back nonsense, there is a limit. they both made good speeches, saluting each other, and looked as if they would chat to Rod Laver for a bit. neither of them cried, tho rafa was very stony faced - his spoken english has really come on.
terrific final, right man won, and won well.

[RosieBear]

I get why people considered Fed an outside bet before the tournament, but not sure why anyone is surpised Fed won this once/if they had seen his earlier rounds. Been blown away by his form all tournament - as Harriet said, Fed's ultra attacking game can be almost unplayable. I'm not one to get behind the :sofa: easily, but certainly did this tournament at some of Fed's play.

[RosieBear]

I think Fed is going to do a Serena - take lots of time off then swan in to the slams....

[Speedy Hawk]

I get why people considered Fed an outside bet before the tournament, but not sure why anyone is surpised Fed won this once/if they had seen his earlier rounds. Been blown away by his form all tournament - as Harriet said, Fed's ultra attacking game can be almost unplayable. I'm not one to get behind the :sofa: easily, but certainly did this tournament at some of Fed's play.

I am surprise he won cos I see Roger play really well earlier rounds and even beat higher ranked player easily then meet Rafa in final and still lose against him. I see this happen so many time. I was hoping he win but try not let my hope up too much because past result against Rafa. Rafa just crazy against Roger. Rafa crazy when he get BP against him and save them all. Rafa crazy take make break points from Roger quickly (except this match, this match Rafa take lot slower than usual).

[super8]

I get why people considered Fed an outside bet before the tournament, but not sure why anyone is surpised Fed won this once/if they had seen his earlier rounds. Been blown away by his form all tournament - as Harriet said, Fed's ultra attacking game can be almost unplayable. I'm not one to get behind the :sofa: easily, but certainly did this tournament at some of Fed's play.

I understand completely what you mean - Roger did look exceptional in many of the earlier matches. I guess I am thinking that the weight of history was not indicating a Federer win.

I am thinking that time and time again Roger has looked scarily good in the earlier rounds of the Australian Open - and has then been beaten quite easily in either the semi finals or the final - so in many respects, this tournament seemed to be sticking to that script. Even the semi final was a bit tight.

Also - Roger hadn't beaten Rafa in 5 sets in such a long time. A psychological barrier there. Pressure also with slam records - the outcome of the match would be either a 2-slam differential between Federer and Nadal or a 4-slam differential. Quite significant in terms of slam win records.

I suppose there was a chink in Rafa's armour shown in the semi final. Prior to his match against Grigor, Rafa had won 23 consecutive sets against player with single-handed backhands in slam matches. The fact that the balls weren't bouncing as highly and courts quicker had nullified Rafa's strategy against such players to an extent. Both Grigor and Roger were able to utilise their backhands against Rafa to much greater effect than usual.

Some of Roger's play today reminded me of some of the World Tour Finals matches that he and Rafa have played - Roger would get the upper hand then struggle towards the finishing line. Maybe there was a WTF final like that? When Roger's is able to express himself and play his attacking game like this he is pretty much irresistible - and a delight to watch. I am aware of the superlatives thrown his way - and some folk do get carried away - but they are best ignored really. There are plenty of knowledgeable and fair Federer fans who aren't prone to idiotic hyperbole - the idiotic ones are just the ones that get noticed more because of their loud goings on imo.

[Rosalind]

I have just watched the match. It was a great. Thankfully I wasn't a big, big fan of either otherwise I would have been too too nervous! (I was a bit nervous as it was!)
Regardless of all the chat we have during the tournaments, the favourites and least favourites that we have, it's great to have a sport where there is such skill and these guys are a joy to watch.
I enjoyed it like the old days when I used to watch them. It was like a dream - going back in time 10 years, and then waking up and discovering that it is really 2017 not 2008 and despite everything, Andy Murray is number 1 !

Roll on Davis Cup......

[super8]

Roger's slam win has been a bit of a tennis stat delight.

- It has been 34 years since a player won a slam title by beating 4 top 10 players in the process - the last to do this was Mats Wilander in 1982.

- 12 years since a player won a slam title by winning three 5-set matches. Last one was Gaudio in 2004 (pre-Rafa dominance).

- Federer only the 2nd player to play 100 main draw singles matches in a slam. I think Connors has 100+ appearances at 2 slams, but no-one else has done this.

- First time a slam final has been contested by 2 players aged 30 or over since Sampras v Agassi in 2002 at US Open. I suspect there will be a few more of those when Andy turns 30 (oh yes - and probably Novak too.)

- And of course Federer the oldest slam winner since Ken Rosewall, about 45 years ago. A mere youngster in terms of long-standing records compared with the ones that Andy has been breaking in recent years of course..

- Had Nadal won this match, he would have been the first player in the open era to win all 4 slams more than once - and also move past Sampras with slam wins.

- Federer the first to win 5 or more men's singles slam titles at 3 different slam events.

- Federer snapped a losing streak of 6 slam matches against Nadal. Last time he won of course was back in 2007. Federer had never beaten Nadal at the Australian Open before (he'd lost all 3 of their previous matches)

[Josephine]

Watched my recording missing out all the non-playing bits. Thought it was a really good match and a great 5th set. Was sort of wanting Roger to win for no reason I can give. Been an incredible tournament and with two 5 set men's semis and a 5 set final, a truly great competition.

Kind of enjoyed just watching for the tennis with no stress. I think Roger deserved it for his amazing play at 35.

When I saw Rafa play first match in Abu Dhabi and Roger at Hopman Cup, I knew they were both back in a big way way and was quite concerned (never imagined they would both be in Oz final!). I guess a move to faster courts may follow elsewhere too, so not so easy for the big defensive players - Djokovic and Andy - so may make things more difficult for them. We'll see...

[Monica]

I am not sure that faster courts are bad for Andy. He did really well on the faster courts of Shanghai and Paris. I think this is more to do with reaction to the last 6 months of 2016. Not helped by the AO ensuring that RF had almost all first evening matches and always played on Rod Laver.

[RosieBear]

Watched my recording missing out all the non-playing bits. Thought it was a really good match and a great 5th set. Was sort of wanting Roger to win for no reason I can give. Been an incredible tournament and with two 5 set men's semis and a 5 set final, a truly great competition.

Kind of enjoyed just watching for the tennis with so stress. I think Roger deserved it for his amazing play at 35.

When I saw Rafa play first match in Abu Dhabi and Roger at Hopman Cup, I knew they were both back in a big way way and was quite concerned (never imagined they would both be in Oz final!). I guess a move to faster courts may follow elsewhere too, so not so easy for the big defensive players - Djokovic and Andy - so may make things more difficult for them. We'll see...


I hope so! Andy is infinitely better placed than Novak to deal with sped up courts. In fact, as Bardot pointed out RLA is now very close in speed to Shanghai, Andy's most successful masters (just a pity that Andy meet Mischa whose game is also suited to a faster court, but thankfully few players have Zev's fab but awkward style). Andy's best overall surface is grass which forces him to play more aggressively - no finer sight than Andy in full flight on a grass court and no surprise Novak not even taken a set from him on grass. Yes Andy's amazing in defence but he has got all the tools for incredible aggressive play on faster courts so I look forward to him having to use them more.
Also feel much better about Andy turning 30 after this tournament :)

[Alis]

I agree absolutely.

[ljs]

I didnt see the match , but I did have to eat some humble pie today , cause I told a few people I know at the start of the tourny , that I didnt think RF would make it to the semis :facepalm:

Really didnt see too much of it this year , which isnt like me at all really , just kinda lost interest for some reason

Anyway , Im glad its over !!!

[cazza99]

Awwww - https://twitter.com/australianopen/status/825687992303972352

(https://twitter.com/australianopen/status/825687992303972352)There is a video but is takes a few seconds to load. Glad it is his wife. Didn't think it was to start with :lol:

[pabbers]

It was actually nice to be able to watch a match without a vested interest for a change. And what a match it was! It was like Stomp v Swan Lake as I expected :big grin: and I was strangely thrilled for Fed. The final has put the"top" back in 4. It emphasises what a privilege it is to experience such an era of tennis where, despite the early departure of seeds 1&2, the winners still didn't come from the ranks of the new young players but from a revitalised old guard. The gulf is still wide between the "top 4" and the rest. Long may it continue. I so admire Fed's willingness to embrace new ways of playing to enable him to shorten rallies. Certainly puts paid to the old adage that you can't teach an old dog new tricks! I wish Andy could be quicker to try out new things. But judging by today at least he still has plenty of time!

[Jan]

Managed to watch the highlights. Wow, some amazing rallies. Actually scary!
As others have said, great to be stress-free while watching!

[Alis]

Pat Cash vociferous in his condemnation of Fed's 'legalised cheating' in both the final and the semis.

[themass15]

Pat Cash vociferous in his condemnation of Fed's 'legalised cheating' in both the final and the semis.

I saw that but I don't imagine Fed will worry too much about it.

[LC the fan]

What a fascinating tennis year it is going to be
The Big Four undoubtedly re-acknowledged
Faster Courts
Three Brits in the top 50
At least 5 serious Young Pretenders
...to say nothing of Nishikori, Wawrinka, etc. I cannot wait

[goldfish]

Very impressive win for Fed. Can't deny that he's worked hard to add to his skills to challenge his rivals and make it easier to shorten rallies, give the opposition less time, surprise with varied tactics. Shows what a good rest can do for you, though he deserves that after such a long, high-achieving career. Well done Roger.

(That hurt! Guess it still counts despite not having to beat the no 1 or no 2 players in the world ;) :whistle: )

[pabbers]

Upon reflection how kind was it of Andy, Nole and Rafa to let Roger win one last slam so he could retire happy? And retire I think he will......:big grin:

[themass15]

Upon reflection how kind was it of Andy, Nole and Rafa to let Roger win one last slam so he could retire happy? And retire I think he will......:big grin:

Some comments defo suggest that but others are the opposite. I think it will depend how he goes in the other tournaments this year. After all he has won it all (apart from an Olympic Gold Medal) and, even though there are a lot who fell otherwise, is way out in front as the most popular player. He was once voted the 2nd most respected person in the world after Nelson Mandela!

[fah51]

Belated greetings from Melbourne. We have had a great time at the AO. Saw both semis and the final and what crackers they were! I was seriously impressed with Grigor - never thought he had such resilience in him. As for the final, well I've seen a fair number of Rog V Rafa at Wimbledon including 2008 and in terms of tension and atmosphere this was right up there. I was very pleased that Roger won as I've always preferred him to Rafa. The tension in the final set was unbelievable. It was a privilege to be present at such a historic match. These night matches are pretty exhausting though and not a fan of all the razzmatazz - give me Wimbledon Centre Court any day :)

[Alis]

It is being reported today that Roger has said he has no plans to retire.

[pabbers]

It is being reported today that Roger has said he has no plans to retire.

:rolleyes:

[Teresa]

It is being reported today that Roger has said he has no plans to retire.

It's sapping my will to live...........

[RoastLamb]

It is being reported today that Roger has said he has no plans to retire.

Darn! I thought he'd do a Pete Sampras and retire after winning it. Crap! :lol:

[rimarli]

He is talking about winning Wimbledon and the USO

[Alis]

He is talking about winning Wimbledon and the USO

Talking about it and doing it are very different things. My bet is that he will see how he goes. If the knee continues to play up maybe he'll decide to cut and run - we can but hope!

[cazza99]

Talking about it and doing it are very different things. My bet is that he will see how he goes. If the knee continues to play up maybe he'll decide to cut and run - we can but hope!

Nah, I want him to get to the Wimbledon final and Andy to give him a complete thrashing in the final and win the title.

[Bardot]

Federer's response in his press conference about his comment during the victory ceremony.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C3Wpwk8WIAEaQsa.jpg

[jagmad]

It is being reported today that Roger has said he has no plans to retire.


It's sapping my will to live...........


Darn! I thought he'd do a Pete Sampras and retire after winning it. Crap! :lol:


He is talking about winning Wimbledon and the USO

Well if this is true along with the court speeds play changes etc, etc, Our hero had better go Gold Mining. ASAP.
Eh RB?
;)