View Full Version : Australian Open 15-28th Jan 2018 - Main thread
themass15
22-01-2018, 10:24
Djokovic 2 sets down, can't say I am shedding any tears
roytennisfan
22-01-2018, 10:24
Chung 7-6 7-5 129 minutes
JAMES4578
22-01-2018, 10:33
Looked like Djokovic was fighting back with some help, however Chung steadied himself for 2 sets lead! Djokovic breaks at start of 3rd but cancelled out and now 2-1 Chung. pity for Thiem earlier but impressive again Sandgren!
Surprise at all the thoughts that Nole would quit, he's never struck me as a quitter, even though with his elbow the way it is it would plainly be the sensible thing to do.
roytennisfan
22-01-2018, 10:46
Think this could be over pretty quick now
roytennisfan
22-01-2018, 10:49
Surprise at all the thoughts that Nole would quit, he's never struck me as a quitter, even though with his elbow the way it is it would plainly be the sensible thing to do.
Listening to Andy?
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Novak hasn't played a match for 6 months... Long way to go in this one still
Surprise at all the thoughts that Nole would quit, he's never struck me as a quitter, even though with his elbow the way it is it would plainly be the sensible thing to do.
He's well into double figures for match retirements, admittedly most were pre-2011
RosieBear
22-01-2018, 10:59
In life, you don't achieve what Novak has if you have a quitter's mentality. (nice supportive tweet from Andy)
roytennisfan
22-01-2018, 11:35
Sevens are lucky for Chung 7 7 7
Well done Chung - fantastic result :yahoo::yahoo::yahoo:
RosieBear
22-01-2018, 11:38
Congrats Chung! :clap: Novak not himself at start of the match but still a great win. And well fought by Novak, no chance that the 6 times Aussie champ would leave RLA without a scrap.:clap:
I didn't expect Novak to get beyond this stage after such a long layoff, but I thought his victor would be A Zverev! How wrong could I be!
Wow! Incredible from Chung. He's relentless. Assuming his serve improves, it will be scary what he can achieve. Take a bow. :worship: The future of tennis is bright. :shades:
I fear for Thiem and what Bresnik will do to him. He's scary.
JAMES4578
22-01-2018, 11:46
Chung acquitted himself really well and showing great maturity in finding a way past Djokovic, Nole far from best but did keep fighting. May have been straight sets but a few edgy moments. Thought it would be challenging for Djokovic to have really good run.
QF:
#1 Nadal v #6 Cilic
#3 Dimitrov v #49 Edmund
#97 Sandgren v #58 Chung
#19 Berdych v #2 Federer
Josephine
22-01-2018, 12:04
Well played Chung - Novak will improve with more match practice.
Some new young guns coming through and comeback for Andy after nearly a year out will not be easy...
themass15
22-01-2018, 12:11
Let's hope Chung can trouble Federer assuming he gets to the semi-final
Surprise at all the thoughts that Nole would quit, he's never struck me as a quitter, even though with his elbow the way it is it would plainly be the sensible thing to do.
He used to be .... but that was a loooong time ago before he became a multiple GS champion. As others have said, I am not surprised he didn't have a deep run after being out so long and still clearly not 100% fit. Well done to Chung though, he still had to win the match. I saw a bit of him at the NextGen finals, he's a talent that's for sure.
Surprised Thiem is out. Didn't see any of either match as I'm at work and haven't seen any of Thiem's matches this tournament but just expected he would win that one.
lovetennis
22-01-2018, 13:31
Haven't seen the match yet but think Djokovic has done well to get this far in his 1st tournament for 6 months. Reading reports of the match, his elbow still not being right must be a concern now. Maybe he needs to follow Andy to the surgeon's table
Congratulations, Chung! :clap::clap::clap:
RoastLamb
22-01-2018, 18:07
Wow!!! Chung. I knew when I saw him win every match at the Next Gen tourney he was going to do special things. But wow this surpassed all my expectations. Now if only he could do the same to Federer...
Shout out to Tennys Sandgren too. Amazing stuff!!!
lovetennis
22-01-2018, 19:28
Fascinating in this Aussie Open how Chung, Sandgren and Kyle have flourished, when the expected breakthrough guys Sascha Zverev and Domi Thiem have gone out. The ones people thought might challenge the old guard are turning out to be other young players. Great news for the sport to have these new players coming through
I have been thinking how quietly Cilic and Berdy have been slipping under the radar, and now they face the #1 and #2 seeds respectively. Full spotlight on them now! Didn't see all of the Chung match, but what I did see was some electrifying tennis from both men. Tend to agree with most that Nole's defeat was no great surprise, certainly not a 'shock defeat' as I heard it described earlier today on BBC. What has more of a surprise element in it is the QF line-up. Rubbing my hands in anticipation.
Rosalind
22-01-2018, 22:30
I have finally been able to watch the Novak match. Wow! Chung was something else. He was out Novaking Novak with his stretching and bending. There are a lot of very talented new players.
Rosalind
23-01-2018, 10:33
is it wrong of me to want Cilic and Nadal to have a humdinger of a gruelling match and then for the most exhausted, worst player to win. Good to see on waking up for the second time today that it's currently all square and looking tense. Come on Kyle!
Sallydaisy
23-01-2018, 11:00
Tie-break for the 3rd set between Cilic and Nadal.
:shades:
Sallydaisy
23-01-2018, 11:08
3-3 in the tie-break
Cilic serving after the change of ends:
*3-4 great return from Rafa
4-4* Rafa apparently upset at a baby crying in the crowd
4-5* Cilic netted a sitter. STILL ON SERVE!
*5-5 Good serve from Cilic
*5-6 Cilic put his forehand long with an empty court waiting .... Set point Rafa.
5-7*
Rafa takes the 3rd set for a 2-1 lead
RosieBear
23-01-2018, 11:10
Ouch, that miss at 5-5 is going to hurt Cilic. Hope he can fight back but Rafa sooo mentally tough and relentless.
themass15
23-01-2018, 11:14
Hope Rafa comes through but also hope it is 5 long sets.
Rosalind
23-01-2018, 11:29
joking apart... this is a great match to watch.
Gruelling five-setter ahoy!
RosieBear
23-01-2018, 11:43
Rafa looking like a lame duck after mto but then holds from 0-40. Keep focused Marin.
I really hope we're not going to get a repeat of the Wimbledon final :grrr:
Don’t care who wins - I dislike them both. I will opt for whichever will be an easier opponent for Kyle? Opinions on that. Just hoping for a long five setter. The match is already 40 minutes longer than Kyle’s.
Nadal's grunting is off the bleedin' chart. :hmm: Vamos Cilic!
This must be good news for Kyle.
sir coolerking
23-01-2018, 11:54
Can't help thinking that Kyle's best chance will be against a tired Cilic - Rafa more likely to recover well from a gruelling 5 setter.
Are they still playing the Ladies match after this?
RosieBear
23-01-2018, 11:55
Don’t care who wins - I dislike them both. I will opt for whichever will be an easier opponent for Kyle? Opinions on that. Just hoping for a long five setter. The match is already 40 minutes longer than Kyle’s.
Hmm, although Rafa's looking a little ropey physically think I still prefer Marin to win and face Kyle. Rafa is such an experienced champion and mentally strong I fear he'd find a way past Kyle even if he was half a step slow. Cilic's weapons are similar to Kev Anderson's so fingers crossed Kyle could cope with them.
But into a decider so will have to see. C'mon guys - nothing less than a Halep/ Davis marathon will do :)
themass15
23-01-2018, 11:55
Can't help thinking that Kyle's best chance will be against a tired Cilic - Rafa more likely to recover well from a gruelling 5 setter.
Are they still playing the Ladies match after this?
Rafa clearly has an injury, so he could be suspect even if he does manage to win
RosieBear
23-01-2018, 12:01
Not a Rafa fan, but this is horrible to watch :sad:
sir coolerking
23-01-2018, 12:03
Game over as Rafa retires.
Kyle v Cilic it will be.
So sorry for Nadal :sad::sad:
Rafa retires injured, after Cilic wins the second game of the fifth set on his sixth break point.
RosieBear
23-01-2018, 12:05
Shame for Rafa and his fans, never nice to see a champ limp out of a slam like that.
And shame Marin not more physically exerted.
But don't worry Linda, Kyle will have something to say about a repeat of the Wimbledon final :peace:
Kyle and Cilic have played each other once with Cilic winning 6-3 7-6(5) in 2nd round of Shanghai last year.
themass15
23-01-2018, 12:09
Such a shame for Rafa, it makes you wonder what's next for him now.
RosieBear
23-01-2018, 12:11
Such a shame for Rafa, it makes you wonder what's next for him now.
Just guessing, but I'd say a long break then clay court dominance.
RosieBear
23-01-2018, 12:20
Not sure it's hugely likely but now hoping for a Kyle v Berdych final :peace: Obvs Kyle first choice winner, but would also be heart-warming if Tomas snatched a slam after so many disappointments.
themass15
23-01-2018, 12:21
If he's fit by then for the European clay court swing, there are some tournament in South American starting 5th Feb
JAMES4578
23-01-2018, 12:26
Pity for the match to end like that and obviously must've been serious for Rafa to call it a day at that point, however credit to Cilic as despite the circumstances was playing well. Had been hoping for an interesting decider! Think Cilic a better semi final opponent but it will be still be tough. Mind you think he has a shot if can keep the form going, didn't think he had much of a chance against Dimi in first GS Quarter but proved me wrong there.
Well that was exciting! Well done Marin, this has been one weird tournament :shocked: :barmy:
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2018/jan/22/tennys-sandgren-alt-right-australian-open-twitter
This has put me RIGHT off Sandgren!
lovetennis
23-01-2018, 12:40
Shame for Rafa and his fans, never nice to see a champ limp out of a slam like that.
And shame Marin not more physically exerted.
But don't worry Linda, Kyle will have something to say about a repeat of the Wimbledon final :peace:
Well of course I will be rooting for Kyle anyway, but please tennis gods do not let there be another Fed v Cilic G'S final after last year's non-event Wimby final
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2018/jan/22/tennys-sandgren-alt-right-australian-open-twitter
This has put me RIGHT off Sandgren!
Me too :grrr:
Probably not allowed to comment further on here (getting political), though I would like to.
It was alluded to quite a while ago on here that he seems like a nice lad until you check out his social media.
Not sure it's hugely likely but now hoping for a Kyle v Berdych final :peace: Obvs Kyle first choice winner, but would also be heart-warming if Tomas snatched a slam after so many disappointments.
I'd rather it was a Kyle v Chung final.
Rosalind
23-01-2018, 13:56
Me too :grrr:
Probably not allowed to comment further on here (getting political), though I would like to.
yes me too. But it's good to get this info as I can then cheer noticeably for all his opponents forever more. ;)
Rosalind
23-01-2018, 13:57
I'd rather it was a Kyle v Chung final.
I'm not sure - I thought Chung was like a machine! I don't think it was humanly possible to beat him!
themass15
23-01-2018, 14:18
I too would like to see Kyle v Chung in the final. Fresh blood.
Not a Rafa fan, but this is horrible to watch :sad:
I agree Anna. Poor Rafa could hardly get himself off the court.
I only started to enjoy the match during the second set when Cilic broke serve. I thought Cilic was playing really well and even without the injury he may well have won the match anyway. All along I have felt Rafa's fitness has not been seriously challenged and I was rather hoping for a 5 setter to see how he would hold up. I rest my case.
RosieBear
23-01-2018, 15:21
I'm not familiar with Sandgren. *Without going into detail*, has he posted controversial things himself or is it just that he follows some unsavoury people? If the latter, imo you can't tell much from that. I'm not on Twitter but if I was I'd follow dubious characters as well as people that I agreed with because I like to read a wide range of opinions, including controversial ones (I read several newspapers).
Josephine
23-01-2018, 15:42
No it is more than that. He has now deleted all his tweets. (sent you a PM)
themass15
23-01-2018, 15:44
Whatever, I shall be rooting for Chung tomorrow but am not getting up in the middle of the night again this tournament!
RoastLamb
23-01-2018, 19:22
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2018/jan/22/tennys-sandgren-alt-right-australian-open-twitter
This has put me RIGHT off Sandgren!
SAME!!!
Oh poor Rafa!!! :crying: Sigh.
Good for Kyle tho'. And didn't tie-less Henman look rather handsome???
Can't see anyone winning this except you know who now. Snore. But you never know...
oop for Wednesday - https://ausopen.com/sites/default/files/2018-01/20180124_championship_schedule_Day10_1-28.pdf
Aiden McHugh who is on Andy's "books" is through to third round of both the junior singles & doubles. He beat a 6'10" 17 year old from France 7-5 in a final set TB having been 0-3 and 3-5 down winning 4 consecutive points (2 against his huge serve) to take the match. He plays 14th seed Styler from Czech Republic tonight/tomorrow and the match will be streamed on the AO website. I wonder if Andy was watching last night given his mentoring role. Jamie was in the stands with Leon Smith.
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2018/jan/22/tennys-sandgren-alt-right-australian-open-twitter
This has put me RIGHT off Sandgren!
Sorry, but this reminds me of the press comment by Andy when the masses of English, not on here I hasten to add, decided he was horrible because of a misunderstanding over a joke he made about the English football team. Sandgren says he is a Christian and as such I don't believe he would support the far right. I know nothing about Sandgren other than his tennis here though.
Rosalind
24-01-2018, 06:15
Sorry, but this reminds me of the press comment by Andy when the masses of English, not on here I hasten to add, decided he was horrible because of a misunderstanding over a joke he made about the English football team. Sandgren says he is a Christian and as such I don't believe he would support the far right. I know nothing about Sandgren other than his tennis here though.
But Andy's joke was a joke. The fault lies with daft English people still obsessed with it.Presumably the many deleted tweets were not jokes and never intended to be nor have they been understood incorrectly. Saying you are deeply religious does not automatically mean you do not do wrong .
Sandgren read a statement from his phone prior to his press conference. Some of his tweets are undeniably offensive but there's no hint of "mea culpa" but he does appear to accuse the press of lying and bringing on "hell". What the heck!
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DUSQ5-VW0Ag6Aes.jpg
All 4 Brits (Shuker, Lapthorne, Hewett & Reid) lost in the wheelchair singles.
Aidan McHugh is through to the QF of the Junior Boys Singles beating 14th seed Styler 7-6(1) 6-3 however he lost in the QF of the doubles.
BT Sport (http://sport.bt.com/tennis/aidan-mchugh-reaches-junior-quarter-finals-at-australian-open-S11364245668392) - Aidan McHugh reaches junior quarter-finals at Australian Open
Murray has been sending fire emojis from his home back in Surrey to congratulate McHugh on his progress while Jamie Murray has been cheering on the youngster court-side along with Davis Cup captain Leon Smith – McHugh is coached by Smith’s brother Toby.
Lots of chances in the first set, including serving for it, but Berdy fails to show up for the tie break, Fed taking it 7-1.
Rosalind
24-01-2018, 09:32
how is it possible - the bbc app says 5-3 Berdy. By the time I log on to eurosport Feds is about to win the set. I've never seen Berdy win anything! ever! I only want him to win because our players have a better chance of beating him.. perhaps that's not a good enough reason.
Berdy had that set in the palm of his hand - but it was snatched away. :(
Thought Berdych had the 1st set in the bag! Did he lose his nerve??
Thought Berdych had the 1st set in the bag! Did he lose his nerve??
In all probability. He is known as a bottler. A difficult one, due to my irrational hatred of Berdych. But I would rathe4 he won than Federer. Not watching it for that reason.
RosieBear
24-01-2018, 10:01
Well done Chung :clap: C'mon Tomas! :cheer:
Re Sandgren - I've never heard the man speak and won't make up my mind until I have. Disagree with current Twitchunt trend.
Berdych rolls over completely to Fed. I am surprised he hasn’t asked Fed to rub his tummy........
oop for Thursday - https://ausopen.com/sites/default/files/2018-01/20180125_championship_schedule_Day11_17-30.pdf
Kyle starts at 8.30 am UK time.
RosieBear
24-01-2018, 10:34
Thank goodness Kyle on at a civilised hour. Really didn't fancy another middle-of-the-nighter.:yahoo:
JAMES4578
24-01-2018, 10:46
Berdy may have had chances early on but with not capitalising no surprise Fed is now pretty much in cruise control, prefer Fed's game anyway! Glad Chung put Sandgren out (as far as I know little doubt that's he's been at least highly offensive and a reason why he's deleted so many tweets) I certainly wouldn't take any public view he now gives at face value.
Rosalind
24-01-2018, 12:34
Berdych rolls over completely to Fed. I am surprised he hasn’t asked Fed to rub his tummy........
oh it's painful isn't it.... Me, you, a few other people mainly on the AMFF = :crying: everyone else = :worship:
hfwardhouse
24-01-2018, 14:06
Thank goodness Kyle on at a civilised hour. Really didn't fancy another middle-of-the-nighter.:yahoo:
I'll be at work - was kinda hoping for a 4am start then I could go to bed early and see the match before work :crying:
Rosalind
24-01-2018, 14:29
I'll be at work - was kinda hoping for a 4am start then I could go to bed early and see the match before work :crying:
me too. I have meeting 9am-10am that I tried to move and can't. rain delay would be good :bbq:
The men's semis are always held as the night matches - have been for several years.
RoastLamb
24-01-2018, 15:06
How disappointing about Berdbrain. He had that first set and then he didn't. Same old, same old. All the tennis was disappointing last night except for Chung's win.
With regards to Tennys: Be careful what you tweet. If you don’t want to have a public discourse about what you say publicly, then don’t say it at all. His tweets have been screen captured for all to see so it's not fake news like he's insinuating. And it does seem that he has a major dislike for Serena too. Now, I'm not her greatest fan but I've seen a lot of hate go her way mainly for the way she looks, etc. On the other hand, the press DO seem to search about for anything that's got some kind of sensational aspect to it so they're not entirely blameless either.
This is what well-respected Sports Illustrated tennis journalist Jon Wertheim had to say in his mailbag this morning:
(https://www.si.com/tennis/2018/01/24/mailbag-australian-open-tennys-sandgren-twitter-comments-consequences)
Thoughts on Tennys Sandgren and his press conference comments that aspects of the alt-right are “interesting”? Apparently his Twitter feed is rife with racism, sexism and homophobia. Don’t think it’s responsible to ignore this.
—@dogearpress
• At least on social media, this has been a huge story over the last 24 hours. As Tennys Sandgren’s profile has expanded, his social media profile has been explored. And some of the content—likes, retweets and some original tweets—have been deeply offensive to many.
As I see it, this traces the same arc as Margaret Court and her strong views on homosexuality. Is Sandgren, like Court, entitled to his opinion and theories? Of course. Is he shielded from consequence? Of course not. This is how free speech works.
Some of you wonder what this has to do with tennis, why this should cloud what is otherwise a feel-good story. Others wonder how we can discuss forehands and backhands when the man executing the strokes has retweeted odious, disproven hoaxes and called Serena Williams "disgusting" in a tweet for comment she made after winning a point against Roberta Vinci at the U.S. Open. But no one is ignoring the issue. Sandgren has been asked about his views in press conferences. (Hat tip, Simon Briggs of The London Telegraph.) Sandgren, to his credit, didn't duck the question. This issue has been discussed on broadcasts and in columns. Fans now decide whether to root for the guy or not, whether to overlook this or condemn this in the harshest terms. Sponsors can decide whether or not this is a player they want to align with. Other players can decide how to interact with this colleague.
Tennis has fines for audible obscenities and the size of sponsor logos. It does not have fines and policing for “abhorrent retweets.” That’s where we—and the marketplace—come in.
Sandgren has walked back much of this. He denies that he supports the alt-right. He has spent the day before the biggest match of his career scrubbing much of his Twitter feed. In many quarters, he’s been roundly criticized. His unexpected run to the second week of a major clouded by his social media choices made, in some cases, years ago. In other words, he’s facing the fallout.
It’s all a vivid reminder of the advice we all give our kids: you are what your tweet. And the Internet doesn't forget. And inasmuch as these tweets and retweets are endorsement, well, beware the backlash….
lovetennis
24-01-2018, 17:05
I'll be at work - was kinda hoping for a 4am start then I could go to bed early and see the match before work :crying:
And me. Will have to make do with the live score and then watch the replay. :-(
suttontennis
24-01-2018, 17:07
Once Federer had got over his initial slowness (and tetchiness) he had, as usual, far too much for Berdych and at times made him look quite slow and cumbersome.
roytennisfan
24-01-2018, 18:30
Is Roger going to repeat last year by winning AO + IW+ Miami, looks a fair bet to me at the moment!
themass15
24-01-2018, 18:45
It is unbelievable to think of all the top players from 2016, he seems to be the last man standing.
roytennisfan
24-01-2018, 19:23
Of course a win for Roger guarantees him a return to #1 ranking unless Rafa chooses to play Acapulco which seems highly unlikely
Rafa is still scheduled to play Acapulco.
banskogirl
24-01-2018, 21:30
They said to Fed today that Rafa is hoping to be back in 4 weeks. Hoping they're right!
Cannot wait to get home from work tomorrow to get watching Kyle's match, will be hiding from the score and hope no-one tells me!
Really, really hoping Kyle wins for two reasons. Want Kyle to win and want Cilic to lose!! Bring it on Kyle :GBflag:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/tennis/42799830
Rafael Nadal is expected to recover from an upper thigh injury within three weeks.
A scan on Wednesday showed a grade one injury on the iliopsoas on his right leg and the 31-year-old is still expected to play in the Mexican Open, which begins on 26 February.
He will retain his number one status when Monday's rankings are released.
oop for Friday - https://ausopen.com/sites/default/files/2018-01/20180126_championship_schedule_Day12.pdf
Shaderer.
Reem Abulleil @ReemAbulleil
Roger Federer says it's a "good thing" that young players like Chung and Edmund are breaking through: "I find it disappointing when their breakthroughs come at 27
Baby Fed is relieved, he's not 27 until May. :phew: :p
Looking like a procession for Fed so far.
themass15
26-01-2018, 09:12
The only plus if Fed wins this is that Kyle will still be at 26 in the rankings on Monday
RosieBear
26-01-2018, 09:42
I know Chung wants to emulate Novak, but retiring with blisters is taking it a bit far :rolling:
Chung obviously realised as we all do that carrying on was going to be a complete waste of everybody’s time. Well done to him for taking the money and his ball and going home.
Now Djokovjc, Nadal and AM are out of the running there is nobody seemingly who can halt Federer. At this rate I can see Federer still wining Grandslams into his forties.
Yellowlivi
26-01-2018, 10:13
This is a disappointing result to see, I haven’t watched it so I don’t know how much his play before retirement was affected. I’m sure he will learn a lot from the whole experience. I don’t feel half so bad about working on Sunday knowing it will be Federer Cilic though!
Oh dear. I am at a loose end. Don't quite know what to do with myself now! What a huge anti climax the men's SF's have been after all the twists and turns of the earlier rounds. And here we are now with no tennis to watch at all.:smashed::help::cuppa:
themass15
26-01-2018, 10:35
Oh dear. I am at a loose end. Don't quite know what to do with myself now! What a huge anti climax the men's SF's have been after all the twists and turns of the earlier rounds. And here we are now with no tennis to watch at all.:smashed::help::cuppa:
Simona v Caroline should be good tomorrow morning (apart from the noise Simona makes), plus the mens dubs follow.
JAMES4578
26-01-2018, 10:46
Certainly disappointing it ended at that point but sure Chung didn't have much option, the injury may have affected his play for a while but think Fed was going to win any way. Hopefully Cilic puts in better performance than at Wimbledon but think Roger the clear favourite. Contrary to other comment think Federer will face greater challenges later in the year and can't see him going beyond 2020.
This year's AO has been a non-event for me; a big part is obviously because Andy wasn't there and I'm delighted that Kyle did so well of course but the other young guns I was expecting to step up after so much promise didn't; won't be watching the fed-fest on Sunday.
supergran
26-01-2018, 11:13
Disappointing for Chung, for those who'd paid to watch and viewers who had looked forward to a competitive match. I won't be watching the final as have no interest in either finalist.:grrr: Hope to see an exciting women's final tomorrow. :skippy:
This must surely have been the easiest Major Fed has ever played - he's hardly had to break sweat on the way to the final.
This will be the very 1st time since I've been following tennis , that I wont be watching a mens slam final , sad isnt it !
Of course anything could happen , and Cilic could play the match of his life and win the title , heres hoping !!
lovetennis
26-01-2018, 13:37
Didn't see it but apparently I didn't miss much! Probably won't bother watching the final. Not keen on Cilic and not interested in Fed either. Hope those attending get to see a better match than the last time they played each other in a G'S final. Someone bandage Cilic's feet now, we don't want another blister blighted performance gifting Fed an easy ride
Warning: Chung's blistered foot (https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DUeL_crVMAAKfq_.jpg).
Poor guy - that looks painful!
I can't believe I'm saying this but I think I would rather Fed won than Cilic. Who knows, Fed might even be satisfied with his 20 and retire?? ;). I know, I know and pigs might fly! :lol:
Rosalind
26-01-2018, 14:37
I saw Chung play Novak and whilst obviously Novak is not what he was, I was mightily impressed and thought he could be the new superstar of the new gen. I thought he would give Roger a run for his money. Logged on to watch the catch up and only caught the 2nd set. What a shame. Feel sorry for all those who had bought tickets for the match. What a waste!
Hoping for a Cilic win. But not expecting it .....
Certainly disappointing it ended at that point but sure Chung didn't have much option, the injury may have affected his play for a while but think Fed was going to win any way. Hopefully Cilic puts in better performance than at Wimbledon but think Roger the clear favourite. Contrary to other comment think Federer will face greater challenges later in the year and can't see him going beyond 2020.
Certainly a very disappointing end to the AO but not unexpected.
Hopefully Fed will not go beyond by 2020 and by then Denis Shapovalov will have matured into a great player to replace him. :yahoo: :yahoo: :yahoo:
Fed the superhero!!!
http://www.espn.com/tennis/story/_/id/22221658/australian-open-already-know-roger-federer-superhero
The article concludes with this sentence
Mere mortals simply don't beat superheroes.
Chung's foot looks sooo painful, surprised he could even walk! Probably the right decision to retire.
Glad I didn't make the long journey to Oz this year, last year was so good I said then I wouldn't go again as anything would be an anticlimax!
http://www.news.com.au/sport/tennis/australian-open/opinion-the-mens-semifinals-at-the-australian-open-were-huge-letdowns/news-story/743f682fbaeb42a76e3eb907659f852b
THE Australian Open men’s semi-finals were let-downs of gargantuan proportions.
Hyeon Chung retired injured in the second set of his clash against Roger Federer on Friday night and Marin Cilic eased past Kyle Edmund in straight sets on Thursday. They were boring matches that — if viewers watched both in their entirety — robbed them of three hours and 20 minutes of their lives they will never get back.
What should have been a crescendo of fiery forehands and breathtaking backhands building up to the biggest match of the tournament fizzled into a horribly off-key showing that left despairing punters crying out for more.
oop for Saturday - https://ausopen.com/schedules/C13
RoastLamb
26-01-2018, 19:30
This will be the very 1st time since I've been following tennis , that I wont be watching a mens slam final , sad isnt it !
Of course anything could happen , and Cilic could play the match of his life and win the title , heres hoping !!
This will be my second. I did not watch 2017's Wimbledon final at all. Not even a clip. Hopefully Cilic won't be hampered this time.
roytennisfan
27-01-2018, 21:03
Anyone expecting anything other than a repeat of last years Wimbledon final?
themass15
27-01-2018, 21:06
Hoping but that is all
I know Chung wants to emulate Novak, but retiring with blisters is taking it a bit far :rolling:
At least it was kept to the feet and didn't leave us not knowing if it was feet, elbow, wrist or head?
Or being stuck in the locker room.
;)
Anyone expecting anything other than a repeat of last years Wimbledon final?
Not really but hoping somehow Cilic will pull off a shock tomorrow. :taz:
I plan to watch the golf on tv - go Rory:thumbup: - and perhaps the tennis on here with the sound off!!!
RosieBear
28-01-2018, 08:33
Couldn't miss a slam final, though Becker/Stich was a test :sleepy: Good luck Fed, good luck Marin :cheer:
Cilic looks really nervous...
WimbledonWestie
28-01-2018, 08:43
Me either. Not my most favoured match up- but the lure of a slam final just too much and alarm was set.
WimbledonWestie
28-01-2018, 08:43
I'm sure I could see his legs and racquet arm shaking
lovetennis
28-01-2018, 08:47
Decided to give it a whirl but worst possible start from Cilic. Come on Marin make a match of it
RosieBear
28-01-2018, 08:49
Fed's blitzkrieg tennis is terrifying. Holds in under a minute.
Pity applause when a player eventually wins a game is something which happens in the first round not a slam final. :big grin:
WimbledonWestie
28-01-2018, 08:56
al, though Becker/Stich was a test :sleepy: :
That did become mildly interesting when Becker had a complete meltdown and started ranting and raving about everything and nothing. It looked at one point like he was having a nervous breakdown.
lovetennis
28-01-2018, 08:58
Fed's blitzkrieg tennis is terrifying. Holds in under a minute.
Scary indeed. I feel bad for being bored by him because he is so amazingly good, but nevertheless bored I am. Hope Cilic can get things going
RosieBear
28-01-2018, 09:04
Scary indeed. I feel bad for being bored by him because he is so amazingly good, but nevertheless bored I am. Hope Cilic can get things going
Yip, same. Makes me think how well Andy did in comparison in *that* Wimbledon semi when Fed served at 85% :faint: Last couple of years Fed's playing the most ultra aggressive tennis I've ever seen :sofa:
themass15
28-01-2018, 09:09
It is scary especially when you think these are the 2nd and 3rd ranked players!
RosieBear
28-01-2018, 09:09
What bps - Fed so clutch. Relieved Kyle didn't eek past Cilic, he'd have been filleted by Fed, he needs another 18 months or so.
Did I understand correctly that they are playing this final under the roof?? If so why? Because it is too hot for Roger and we know he always prefers inside conditions. The girls was outside and it was very hot for them. Maybe I have misunderstood and got it all wrong!
Yip, same. Makes me think how well Andy did in comparison in *that* Wimbledon semi when Fed served at 85% :faint: Last couple of years Fed's playing the most ultra aggressive tennis I've ever seen :sofa:
Bored too...shame.
themass15
28-01-2018, 09:11
No Nessie, you are correct. Andy got that in his first Wimbledon final against Federer in 2012.
lovetennis
28-01-2018, 09:14
Did I understand correctly that they are playing this final under the roof?? If so why? Because it is too hot for Roger and we know he always prefers inside conditions. The girls was outside and it was very hot for them. Maybe I have misunderstood and got it all wrong!
Not sure if Fed asked for it, but it wouldn't surprise me if he did and the organisers had complied :worship:
themass15
28-01-2018, 09:14
I am afraid Mr Federer virtually always gets what he wants
RosieBear
28-01-2018, 09:17
If not raining both players have to agree to have the roof shut. Re Wimbledon 2012 the first set was played without the roof then rain came and it was closed - can't really blame Fed for the weather.
Whilst I really can't stand the man, I have to grudgingly admire his talent and tenacity in still producing outstanding tennis at the ripe old age of 36. It wouldn't surprise me if he was excelling at wheelchair tennis in his 80s! :grrr: Thankfully, I won't be around to see it! ;)
lovetennis
28-01-2018, 09:34
If not raining both players have to agree to have the roof shut. Re Wimbledon 2012 the first set was played without the roof then rain came and it was closed - can't really blame Fed for the weather.
Interesting....I wonder if Cilic rolled over too;)
The Federer women are looking incredibly tense - I wonder if they know something we don't?
RosieBear
28-01-2018, 09:46
Oh Marin :facepalm: shocker on sp
RosieBear
28-01-2018, 09:47
What a let off for Fed..suppose chances are few and get snatched at.... keep going Marin :cheer:
lovetennis
28-01-2018, 09:51
The Federer women are looking incredibly tense - I wonder if they know something we don't?
"Allez Rodgie"
lovetennis
28-01-2018, 09:53
TB - at least Cilic is in the match now. If he can nab this we might really feel it's a contest
lovetennis
28-01-2018, 09:59
C'monnnnn Cilic
RosieBear
28-01-2018, 10:01
:bravo: Marin - taken a little while to get into the match, but now game on!
lovetennis
28-01-2018, 10:02
Well done Cilic. Interesting tweet from Greg Rusedski saying one player practiced indoors, one practiced outdoors before the match. He's not naming names but I think we can guess which is which. Got to ask was Cilic only asked about the roof closure after he had practiced?
It was the decision of the tournament referee to close the roof as the "wet bulb" threshold had been exceeded. Players wouldn't have been consulted.
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DUnegkjVMAEnJ-_.jpg
RosieBear
28-01-2018, 10:12
Well done Cilic. Interesting tweet from Greg Rusedski saying one player practiced indoors, one practiced outdoors before the match. He's not naming names but I think we can guess which is which. Got to ask was Cilic only asked about the roof closure after he had practiced?
Not sure, lt. Apparently the referee took temp reading at 7.30 local time, but no mention of whether players had already practiced. But agree it's odd that Fed practiced indoors and Marin outdoors :confused:
Edit: hadn't seen Bardot's more comprehensive post above.
RosieBear
28-01-2018, 10:16
Fed holds but Cilic reading Fed's serve better now.
themass15
28-01-2018, 10:23
Can't see any way back for Cilic in this set
Has Cilic every played on Rod Laver with the roof closed in the past? I guess Federer would have done several times.
lovetennis
28-01-2018, 10:32
Went for a shower...I see normal service has resumed and Fed has steamrollered the 3rd set
.............. and is a break up in the fourth. I can't see Cilic pulling this back now - Fed is a great front runner.
I can't believe I'm finding myself cheering for Cilic - I never thought I'd see the day!
Well, who'd have thought it - Cilic breaks back. It's match on again!
lovetennis
28-01-2018, 10:49
Good gutsy play from Cilic to break back. Good to see him battling
WimbledonWestie
28-01-2018, 11:01
This currently reminiscent of Fed match v Goffin at O2. When challenged and extended he started to look his age and his play unraveled.
Well, well, well - Cilic serving for the set!
I can't believe I'm finding myself cheering for Cilic - I never thought I'd see the day!
You and me both. I don’t trust either of them, but simply to avoid the vomit inducing sycophancy that will accompany a Fed win, I would prefer Cilic to win. Doesn’t say much as it’s on par with having to chose between severe arthritis in my left knee or severe arthritis in my right knee.
RosieBear
28-01-2018, 11:06
Into a decider. Not a classic, but definitely an enjoyable contest :thumbup:
themass15
28-01-2018, 11:06
Well that was a surprise, who would have thought at the beginning this would go to a 5th set!
themass15
28-01-2018, 11:07
This currently reminiscent of Fed match v Goffin at O2. When challenged and extended he started to look his age and his play unraveled.
Could be
lovetennis
28-01-2018, 11:10
Money's got to still be on Fed - especially as he's serving first, but at least it's a match
Well done, Cilic - all to play for now. Maybe the Federer ladies were looking tense because they felt he had to win it in three or four at the most. It will be interesting to see if he can stay the course. Fed has the advantage of serving first though.
roytennisfan
28-01-2018, 11:10
This is getting interesting, never expected anything than a straight sets, maybe not indestructible
RosieBear
28-01-2018, 11:16
Wow. Fed still the most amazing clutch player.
lovetennis
28-01-2018, 11:26
Valiant fight from Cilic but Fed looks close to the winning line now
Fed was really tetchy at that changeover - he's feeling it.
roytennisfan
28-01-2018, 11:28
The first game of the set looks like it has decided it, Roger was lucky to hold
RosieBear
28-01-2018, 11:34
The first game of the set looks like it has decided it, Roger was lucky to hold
Not necc, Fed did go a break down in 5th against Rafa last year and still came back to win. Think he's playing even better this year. Whatever the different ebbs and flows Fed just has too much.
WimbledonWestie
28-01-2018, 11:34
This currently reminiscent of Fed match v Goffin at O2. When challenged and extended he started to look his age and his play unraveled.
He appears to have ' re- ravelled'. :laugh:
roytennisfan
28-01-2018, 11:36
Did someone say it would be 6-1?
lovetennis
28-01-2018, 11:36
Arghhhhhh. I have to go out now so will miss Fed lifting more silverware
RosieBear
28-01-2018, 11:37
Arghhhhhh. I have to go out now so will miss Fed lifting more silverware
NOoo, and miss Fed's humblebrag interview too? You poor thing!
roytennisfan
28-01-2018, 11:38
Time to go shopping i reckon
RosieBear
28-01-2018, 11:39
Congratulations Feduselah - 20th slam, 36 yrs old, incredible :clap::clap::clap: The big 4 (and sometimes Stan) have created a chasm between the best and the rest that can't be bridged. Frustrating for those not keen on Fed, but the higher Fed sets the bar the greater Andy's achievements in reaching the required level. Commiserations but also respect to Cilic because every time there has been a weak field he has been the one to take advantage and grab the uso and make the finals in Wimbo and Aus. Goffin, Thiem, Sascha etc have a word with yourselves.
lovetennis
28-01-2018, 11:40
NOoo, and miss Fed's humblebrag interview too? You poor thing!
I know, well at least I just caught the winning point. I'll leave the rest of you to enjoy his humble acceptance procession :big grin:
You have to hand it to Fed - 20 Majors is an amazing achievement, particularly in this era. I doesn't mean I have to like the guy though!
themass15
28-01-2018, 11:49
Got to hand it to Federer but I still can't warm to him. Have felt this way since he put on the jacket with 15 when he beat Roddick in the 2009 Wimbledon final
RosieBear
28-01-2018, 11:53
The more I hear Marin, the more I like him, think he's a nice guy :thumbup:
For once, I didn't think of the match at all whilst in church. At least Marin made a match of it. I've never heard of the 'wet bulb' - I suspect it's a euphemism for Roger's nose.
For once, I didn't think of the match at all whilst in church. At least Marin made a match of it. I've never heard of the 'wet bulb' - I suspect it's a euphemism for Roger's nose.:rolling:
JAMES4578
28-01-2018, 14:02
Certainly amazing achievement from Federer to win 20th slam, whilst not great fan of him personally appreciate his tennis and prefer his game to Marin's. Cilic though quite engaging. Think it became a good final (was watching from behind so didn't come on here earlier) but Cilic's start and end were not the best,needed more consistency. He had a great passage of play coming from behind in the 4th but could not quite sustain it and Roger did find a high level in the decider,stepped it up when he had to and came through the test. Know he didn't have toughest draw but that's the way it goes sometimes and certainly earned the win today-impressive at 36!
Please can people discuss the women's final on the women's thread. Thanks.
Surely, the fact that Halep ended up in hospital with heat exhaustion also has a bearing on the men's final though. Although the 'wet bulb' reading reached the required level to close the roof, I believe the rules also state that the temperature should have reached 40 degrees - seemingly, at no time today did it reach 40 degrees, so there does appear to be an inconsistency here.
Tweet from Greg Rusedski:
'One guy warms up indoors, other warms up outdoors before the finals. Roof is closed. �� This is so wrong for a GS final which is an outdoor event, which means you should have to deal with the elements. So far one sided.'
RoastLamb
28-01-2018, 18:40
For once, I didn't think of the match at all whilst in church. At least Marin made a match of it. I've never heard of the 'wet bulb' - I suspect it's a euphemism for Roger's nose.
:lol: I watched bits when I got up. Fast-forwarded through most of it. Too bad Cilic didn't win the fifth but at least he took two sets off him.
I woke up at 3am , went to the bathroom , thought about turning the final on , then remembered who was in it , and went back to sleep :p
Havent even watched a hi-lite , was Federer at least humble is his acceptance speech ?
ok , just watched the trophy presentation , and must say he was humble , shame on me for thinking otherwise :whistle:
I did notice , Fed didnt say " see you next year "
WimbledonWestie
28-01-2018, 20:13
I
I did notice , Fed didnt say " see you next year "
I had picked up on that too but apparently Barbara Schett of Eurosport asked him about it and he said he'd no idea what he was saying and he hoped to be back next year.
Still makes me wonder a little- he's given plenty trophy acceptance speeches over the years and 'I'll see you next year' or similar is usually pretty standard. That's why it stood out that he didn't say it.
As a tennis match, I enjoyed the final irrespective of who was playing. Whilst not a classic, it was good to see Cilic fight back and take it to a 5th. I had hoped to see Roger tested over 5 sets, which he was, so that was good enough for me. Well done old man and well done to Cilic too. He was a gracious loser. I'm afraid I became caught up in all the emotion of the presentation and I definitely shed a few tears!! Whilst Fed is the consummate professional who knows how to deal expertly with the media and the public, there is still a man in there who appreciates the joy of winning his 20th GS title and who definitely exhibited just how very much it meant to him. He is human afterall!
Tennis fans have accused Australian Open organisers of unfair hypocrisy after the referee made the decision to close the roof on Rod Laver Arena for Sunday night's final between Roger Federer and Marin Cilic.
The Swiss won his 20th grand slam title, overcoming Cilic in five sets 6-2 6-7 6-3 3-6 6-1, and did so in the first men's final to be played entirely indoors at Melbourne Park.
The roof was closed as the extreme heat policy came into effect with the aim of protecting players from the harsh weather Melbourne was dishing up.
Cilic agreed that he was hard done by, slamming the decision to close the roof in his post-match press conference. Having prepared to play in hot conditions, he said it made a "huge difference" to the match.
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=11983830
I am no fan of Cilic, as people know, but he is right on this. It’s as though the ATP/ITF are so desperate in the absence of “The Big 4” to stir up excitement, that they are going completely overboard. It’s almost as though they only have one “star” player at the moment, and he must be guided to victory at all costs.
I am not sure it is working for anyone other than the rabid Fed fans. Those of you who were brave enough to watch - was the stadium full, or did people predict quite accurately that there was only going to be one outcome, and save their money?
Certainly this whole Fed resurgence is turning me off the sport big time. Mind you in all fairness I have always been an AM fan, and the British players second, rather than a tennis fan.
Well, they didn't close the roof for the women's final and Halep ended up in hospital with dehydration so there may have been an element of self preservation on the part of the AO organisers. The stadium certainly looked full but as the tickets are sold months in advance for the final I suppose you would turn up if you had a ticket?
As a tennis fan first and foremost and as a fan of Roger I for one am very pleased he got his 20th Slam :)
lovetennis
29-01-2018, 13:06
The stadium was full but seats would have already been sold. It was a better match than I anticipated and glad I didn't switch off after the whitewash first set (I almost did). Saw most of Fed's speech on replay and it's good to see it meant so much to him. I guess he wouldn't still be playing if it didn't. I have no doubt that body permitting he will be back next year.
Hello everyone - hope all well? Haven't been posting for a while.
Have been keeping an eye on the tennis - and also following the forum when I can - and its testament to many folk here that in spite of Andy's absence, it has been ticking over with regular posts. It's really good to see. I would also think that it's interesting to keep tabs on what is going on in the men's game to see what might await Andy when he does return.
No question that Roger deserved the AO title. His draw looked tough on paper at the beginning of the tournament, but as is often the case with this tournament, there were surprises aplenty. I find it surprising that after any tournament win where there is a contentious issue, folk try to affix a big asterisk against the title. 'Ah but this, that and the other!' It is pure noise and isn't really couched in the real world where players may experience an element of luck - or otherwise.
I'd echo Rosie's point about the lack of champion players coming through. It's less the ATP trying to market the 'Big 4' - it's more that they are trying to market the 'NextGen' - they're trying to say, yes, the big 4 will inevitably fall away over time but look at who we have coming through!
The thing is, they really aren't. It's different players each time. At AO it was Kyle, Chung. At the tour finals, it was Goffin, Dimi. At the US open, it was Kevin Anderson, even. this reminds me of the pre Fedal era where the likes of Hewitt, Roddick, Nalbandian, Safin took turns to break through - or when Tomas Johansson and Rainer Schuettler contested the AO final (2003?).
So yeah, no-one is really consistently challenging yet. the likes of DelPo, Raonic, Cilic are dangerous but the physical giants of the game rarely endure.
So - the big 4 have undoubtedly been masking a gap in the game. They really are elemental colours in the world of tennis and their absence is so notable. There's no solution to this really, apart from just hoping that events will combine to enable good players to become great ones. Fed was considered flakey until he achieved his first slam, after all.
It's been really interesting reading about the various records that Roger has been breaking or extending even. Worth noting that when these lists came into focus, Andy was often on those lists too. Examples -
Andy is 9th on the list of most semi final slam appearances with 21. Quarter finals appearances: 8th on the all-time list, tied with Ken Rosewall, above Sampras and just 2 behind Nadal. Pretty amazing records - often it's taken someone from the big 4 to stop him from winning more slams.
So, there really is not much to suggest that any of the big 4 will stop bagging masters, slams for a while yet. No wonder Andy is so keen to get back on court! The tour remains a very lucrative one for him should he be able to return in good physical health and challenge the other 3 (or however many of them are on the tour by then).
Mmmm - I think Teresa and Super8 are both right. Undoubtedly, Fed deserved the title - he was the better player on the day with or without the roof. He is an incredibly talented player who has had an amazing career and may well be the greatest of all time. However, the evidence suggests that the ATP/ITF are bending over backwards to ease his path whenever they can and that can't be good for the sport. He admitted himself that he asked not to be scheduled to play in the heat of the day and, hey presto, he only played one day match. He played every match on Rod Laver Arena. The fact that he practised indoors would indicate that he had prior knowledge of the roof closure. The closure itself was contentious - would it have happened if Fed hadn't been playing? We'll never know. I accept that Fed is a crowd pleaser. I understand that he puts bums on seats and that equates to big bucks. Without doubt many of the other recognised names are missing, so Fed is the only star in the sky at the moment but just now it feels that he is bigger than the sport itself. I'm not saying that any of this is Fed's fault necessarily but it certainly leaves a nasty taste in my mouth.
@ Alis - again I agree with you. We do not have tennis as a sport at the moment. We have a game called “Roger Federer”. It’s a case of “Anyone going to watch Roger Federer today?” “No, there’s no Roger Federer on, might watch some football instead”.
There has always been a tendency to treat Federer as second only to God, but now it’s as though he has actually become God. I read The Guardian review of his win. Their were 400+ comments of vomit inducing sycophancy, and about 5 anti him, (and 2 of those were mine....!!!). Rinse and repeat for the other newspaper reports.
It almost has the feel of a cult. That personally makes me very uncomfortable.
The fact that the organisers of tournaments, who have always favoured him to a degree, are now seemingly being open and completely unsubtle about it, is very odd.
Not sure what the answer is, but it’s interesting that many of the commentators are speaking out about this extreme favouritism.
suttontennis
30-01-2018, 13:16
Regardless of ' favouritism', a 36 year old still has to go out and play best of 5 set matches every other day against younger, fitter players. Not only is he matching them for fitness, but he dropped only 2 sets throughout the tournament. AND, to a live and TV audience his style of play is always going to guarantee a good watch. So why wouldn't the AO schedule him for RLA. The roof wasn't the reason why Cilic lost the first set so easily on Sunday, you could see how twitchy he was, and that can only be because of the man across the net.
The roof wasn't the reason why Cilic lost the first set so easily on Sunday, you could see how twitchy he was, and that can only be because of the man across the net.
I would suggest that the only person who truly knows why he played so badly in the first set is Cilic himself. It may well have been due to nerves but precisely why that was we can't be sure. What is certain is that practising outside in the heat and then coming into an air-conditioned stadium most definitely didn't help.
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