View Full Version : AUSTRALIAN OPEN 14-29th Jan 2019 - Main thread
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/tennis/46451905 I was hoping that he wouldn't have to go through the qualifying rounds.
Tha Australian Open are to use a champions tie break in the 5th set. https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/tennis/46647600
themass15
21-12-2018, 18:08
I think what they are doing is the most sensible of the three slams.
patmoren
21-12-2018, 21:28
Andy is in the main draw just not seeded.
david1610
27-12-2018, 21:52
Heat is always a factor in Melbourne but wondering if it will be even more extreme this year - anyone know how long this is forecast to last? https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2018/dec/27/australias-extreme-heatwave-spans-five-states-with-high-of-49c-forecast
Heat is always a factor in Melbourne but wondering if it will be even more extreme this year - anyone know how long this is forecast to last? https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2018/dec/27/australias-extreme-heatwave-spans-five-states-with-high-of-49c-forecast
the extreme temperatures are not Melbourne though ... only 36 degrees there ;)
They'll be hot in the Hopman Cup though and that starts tomorrow.
BBC (https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/tennis/46708448) - Australian Open heat breaks: Players to get 10-minute break in extreme temperatures
Under the new policy, if a reading of 4.0 is recorded on the Australian Open Heat Stress Scale during a men's singles match, a 10-minute break will be allowed after the third set.
If the reading occurs during a women's or junior singles match, this break will take place between the second and third sets, as will the 15-minute break in wheelchair singles.
If a reading of 5.0 is recorded, the tournament referee can suspend play.
Other changes to the policy for 2019 include more comprehensive measuring of weather conditions and an increase in measuring devices across Melbourne Park.
"The AO Heat Stress Scale takes advantage of the latest medical research into the effects of heat on the human body including the maximum heat stress an athlete can safely withstand, the sweat rate of that person and their core temperature," said Dr Carolyn Broderick, Tennis Australia's chief medical officer.
"The scale also accounts for the physiological variances between adults, wheelchair and junior athletes while also taking into account the four climate factors - air temperature, radiant heat or the strength of the sun, humidity and wind speed - which affect a player's ability to disperse heat from their body."
Del Potro has withdrawn.
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/1a/Flag_of_Argentina.svg/23px-Flag_of_Argentina.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argentina) Juan MartĂ*n del Potro (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juan_Mart%C3%ADn_del_Potro) → replaced by https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/5c/Flag_of_Portugal.svg/23px-Flag_of_Portugal.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portugal) Pedro Sousa (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pedro_Sousa)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/c/c3/Flag_of_France.svg/23px-Flag_of_France.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France) Richard Gasquet (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Gasquet) → replaced by https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/c/c3/Flag_of_France.svg/23px-Flag_of_France.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France) Ugo Humbert (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ugo_Humbert)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e6/Flag_of_Slovakia.svg/23px-Flag_of_Slovakia.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slovakia) Jozef KovalĂ*k (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jozef_Koval%C3%ADk) → replaced by https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/a/a4/Flag_of_the_United_States.svg/23px-Flag_of_the_United_States.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States) Michael Mmoh (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Mmoh)
Men's singles wildcards so far
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/b/b9/Flag_of_Australia.svg/23px-Flag_of_Australia.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia) James Duckworth (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Duckworth_(tennis))[3] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2019_Australian_Open#cite_note-BDAO-3)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/b/b9/Flag_of_Australia.svg/23px-Flag_of_Australia.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia) Jason Kubler (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jason_Kubler)[4] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2019_Australian_Open#cite_note-AOWC-4)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fa/Flag_of_the_People%27s_Republic_of_China.svg/23px-Flag_of_the_People%27s_Republic_of_China.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/China) Li Zhe (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Li_Zhe_(tennis))[4] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2019_Australian_Open#cite_note-AOWC-4)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/a/a4/Flag_of_the_United_States.svg/23px-Flag_of_the_United_States.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States) Jack Sock (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Sock)[4] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2019_Australian_Open#cite_note-AOWC-4)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/c/c3/Flag_of_France.svg/23px-Flag_of_France.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France) Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jo-Wilfried_Tsonga)[5] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2019_Australian_Open#cite_note-French_WC-5)
Ladies singles wildcards so far
Kimberly Birrell (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kimberly_Birrell)[3] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2019_Australian_Open#cite_note-BDAO-3)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/c/c3/Flag_of_France.svg/23px-Flag_of_France.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France) Clara Burel (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clara_Burel)[5] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2019_Australian_Open#cite_note-French_WC-5)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/b/b9/Flag_of_Australia.svg/23px-Flag_of_Australia.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia) Priscilla Hon (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Priscilla_Hon)[4] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2019_Australian_Open#cite_note-AOWC-4)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/a/a4/Flag_of_the_United_States.svg/23px-Flag_of_the_United_States.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States) Whitney Osuigwe (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whitney_Osuigwe)[4] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2019_Australian_Open#cite_note-AOWC-4)
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fa/Flag_of_the_People%27s_Republic_of_China.svg/23px-Flag_of_the_People%27s_Republic_of_China.svg.png (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/China) Peng Shuai (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peng_Shuai)[4] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2019_Australian_Open#cite_note-AOWC-4)
For more information - website https://ausopen.com/
Oh no! Not DelPo! :crying: ... and also Rafa withdrawn from Brisbane, so he's obviously not right either.
https://ausopen.com/draws
suttontennis
10-01-2019, 13:16
Could have been a tougher draw, but not much!
The Nial Smith Design Poster ......
https://scontent-lht6-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/49629744_2131049626961613_3644474931149799424_n.pn g?_nc_cat=103&_nc_ht=scontent-lht6-1.xx&oh=5b08ae1f7bb8ff34c66b6797c1d4a9a1&oe=5C8E1254
Speedy Hawk
12-01-2019, 21:10
Just let you know in case not realised it. FTM is up for Aussie Open.
Rubbing salt in the wound for me ... I won’t be able to watch Andys first round match on Monday as I’ll be on my way to and then at work ... absolutely gutted :crying:
WimbledonWestie
13-01-2019, 09:35
Rubbing salt in the wound for me ... I won’t be able to watch Andys first round match on Monday as I’ll be on my way to and then at work ... absolutely gutted :crying:
If it starts on time I'll see about half an hour- then need to tear myself away. Will record and avoid all media.
All the Brits except Johanna Konta play on day 1.
Andy is the first match of the evening session on the new Melbourne Arena, not before 7 am GMT tomorrow morning.
Harriet Dart is first up on RLA against Maria Sharapova.
Kyle Edmund is third up on the new Melbourne Arena against Tomas Berdych.
Katie Boulter is first up on Court 12 against Elena Makarova.
Cameron Norrie is last up on the same court against Taylor Fritz.
Heather Watson is first up on Court 14 against Petra Martic.
Dan Evans is third up on Court 19 against Tatsuma Ito.
On day 2, Johanna Konta is first up on Court 3 against Alja Tomljanovic.
piscesperson
13-01-2019, 11:15
^ https://ausopen.com/schedule#!8006
I wish they would allow us to save the OOP in PDF - much easier when you want to highlight matches. Perhaps I have missed something??? I really do not want to print.
Guerkins2
13-01-2019, 12:57
If it starts on time I'll see about half an hour- then need to tear myself away. Will record and avoid all media.
Similar for me. Eurosport had better not muck us about with the channels. I think I will record both just in case
Silverdee
13-01-2019, 13:35
Am going to check Eurosport late this evening before setting recording as they often name a match they are showing very late.
I'm sad that Andy won't be on the main show court for what may well be his last ever professional match.:sad:
WimbledonWestie
13-01-2019, 14:35
The tennis podcast discussed this and felt sure andy was asked where / when he wanted to play and chose Hisense ( I'm not sure that's what it's called now, think it's now Melbourne arena) because it's open to ground pass holders and gets a fabulous atmosphere .
I wish they would allow us to save the OOP in PDF - much easier when you want to highlight matches. Perhaps I have missed something??? I really do not want to print.
Jane, If you hit the "print" button, it allows you to save as PDF. Thats what I do most of the time. I'm using a MacBook Air so not sure if its the same with Windows or not.
Thanks Genbrit - doesn't seem to work on Windows 10. All I get is printer settings and not any saving option - at least I don't see any.
If it starts on time I'll see about half an hour- then need to tear myself away. Will record and avoid all media.
I couldn’t do that, even if I could do that ... if you know what I mean. I will HAVE to know what’s going on and I don’t have TV Eurosport anyway, only the player so will be catch up for me but knowing the result.
JAMES4578
13-01-2019, 15:15
Thanks Genbrit - doesn't seem to work on Windows 10. All I get is printer settings and not any saving option - at least I don't see any.
I got it on Windows 10, go to print and on destination click change-option to save as PDF then came up.
WimbledonWestie
13-01-2019, 15:20
I couldn’t do that, even if I could do that ... if you know what I mean. I will HAVE to know what’s going on and I don’t have TV Eurosport anyway, only the player so will be catch up for me but knowing the result.
I'm hoping to watch "live" when I get home- whether or not I can bear to wait is another matter. Still can't get my head round idea that I'm getting up to watch probably his last ever match. While it's always been a worry at the back of the mind since the hip injury appeared I've always tried to be optimistic. Really need more time to prepare for this. So glad to have all you folks on here who all feel the same.
Sallydaisy
13-01-2019, 15:30
I'm sad that Andy won't be on the main show court for what may well be his last ever professional match.:sad:
The tennis podcast discussed this and felt sure andy was asked where / when he wanted to play and chose Hisense ( I'm not sure that's what it's called now, think it's now Melbourne arena) because it's open to ground pass holders and gets a fabulous atmosphere .
It's possible that Andy might not have wanted to be on RLA if his 1st round match has the potential to be a struggle ... and I suspect he'll have definitely not wanted MCA which he dislikes!
Hisense is now called Melbourne Arena, and unfortunately, it's no longer open to ground pass holders so the atmosphere might not be as 'fan oriented' as it used to be. But I think Andy likes the arena for what it is so perhaps it'll suit him just fine.
Thanks WW and SD - that makes me feel slightly better .......... I think!
I got it on Windows 10, go to print and on destination click change-option to save as PDF then came up.
Thanks James - don't see any "destination" or any option to "save" Will just have to forget it!!
banskogirl
13-01-2019, 16:11
Thanks James - don't see any "destination" or any option to "save" Will just have to forget it!!
Thanks James, I've just followed your instructions and it worked. 'click print, click change, choose 'save as pdf' .
banskogirl
13-01-2019, 16:14
Rubbing salt in the wound for me ... I won’t be able to watch Andys first round match on Monday as I’ll be on my way to and then at work ... absolutely gutted :crying:
Taping and hiding for me, would have loved a middle of the night fest with no one to see me cry! Just the thought of Andy walking on court is enough!
I got it on Windows 10, go to print and on destination click change-option to save as PDF then came up.
Got there in the end, thanks James, but with a few more clicks - perhaps due to the installed Canon printer software!!
JAMES4578
13-01-2019, 17:43
Got there in the end, thanks James, but with a few more clicks - perhaps due to the installed Canon printer software!!
Glad sorted now anyway,I've got HP Printer (must be a bit different)
It is easy to get to the schedule in pdf format on the ATP site. But it is not up at the time of posting this - http://www.protennislive.com/posting/2019/580/op.pdf
Mandiemoo
13-01-2019, 18:52
Just posted this on Twitter
Alarm set for just before 7am, added Eurosport player thru Amazon prime (1p/month, use link below). Failed to lift my heavy heart that Andy is retiring. #AndyMurray
Its a kind of surreal feeling now, hope mixed with sadness, thinking perhaps now he has said it, he could put some kind of run together... I can't begin to imagine how I am going to feel tomorrow. Just hope Andy can find a way to enjoy it.
Nial Smith @NialSmith (https://twitter.com/NialSmith) 3h3 hours ago (https://twitter.com/NialSmith/status/1084518762563407872)
7am tomorrow: Once more unto the breach, Dear friends, once more… #AndyMurray (https://twitter.com/hashtag/AndyMurray?src=hash) #AusOpen (https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash)https://abs.twimg.com/hashflags/AusOpen_2019/AusOpen_2019.png (https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash) #ATP (https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATP?src=hash) #OnceMoreUntotheBreach (https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnceMoreUntotheBreach?src=hash) #HenryV (https://twitter.com/hashtag/HenryV?src=hash) #Shakespeare (https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shakespeare?src=hash)
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Dwz7-qWWsAAVMvm.jpg
Huge luck to all the Brits playing overnight. Always nerve wracking to have to wake up and check results.
I was able to see the end of Evo's match before leaving for work. So pleased for him, he has put in a lot of hard work in the last 9 months to get to where he is now. Go Evooooo!!
I was able to see the end of Evo's match before leaving for work. So pleased for him, he has put in a lot of hard work in the last 9 months to get to where he is now. Go Evooooo!!
+1
Also it was really good to see his reaction at winning, "Like you mean it!"
10-10 well done Dan.
Poor Dan! I've neglected him today because I was so caught up with Andy's match and all the post-match hype. So delighted Dan won today. Only Brit man left in the singles. He's nothing to lose by giving Fed a good run for his money: I expect he will get a night match (I wonder why I suspect that?!) so we should be able to watch it at a reasonable hour. Well done Dan the man!:clap::clap:
Now that I have had a chance to catch up with today's other matches, I see some surprises. Isner was beaten by Opelka in 4 TB sets. He's the highest seed(9) to go out in first round to date. Also, maybe not surprising that both Cameron and Sandgren lost today. As finalists in Auckland only 2 days ago, clearly they had not enough time to recover and readjust. Feel a bit better about Cameron's loss now.
oop for Tuesday - https://ausopen.com/schedule#!8011
Well blow me down! Dan's match vs Fed NOT a night match! It's on RLA, but not before 2pm local, 3am here. Chances of me watching are now greatly reduced, much as I love Dan.
Paire & Thiem have just started their 4th set, local time is 1.05am...
Started 5th set. 1.30am. Domi looks as if he really needs his bed. Is it not a bit crazy expecting them to play in the middle (almost) of the night? Paire all over the place in first 2 sets. Never thought match would get this far.
Paire levels it up at 2 sets all, 1-1 in the decider.
JAMES4578
15-01-2019, 14:54
The crowd may enjoy it but not reallly fair on the players, Thiem may be kicking himself though Paire stepped up-Dom up 3-2 in 5th.
Crowd James? I reckon there were about 200 of them left! Bravi them. And what about the umpire and officials? I wonder what time they have to turn up at tomorrow for their next match? Glad Domi won though!
JAMES4578
15-01-2019, 15:40
Talking more in general terms, Sometimes bigger crowds at late night finishes (though no real justification in any circumstance), would have been far better to stop after 3rd. Glad Thiem got through in the end!
Poor Dan! I've neglected him today because I was so caught up with Andy's match and all the post-match hype. So delighted Dan won today. Only Brit man left in the singles. He's nothing to lose by giving Fed a good run for his money: I expect he will get a night match (I wonder why I suspect that?!) so we should be able to watch it at a reasonable hour. Well done Dan the man!:clap::clap:
Reading this just reminded me that last night on Midlands local news the sports correspondent said "and dan's the only Brit left in the AO singles"
I thought Andy would'ave hit the ceiling.
;)
banskogirl
15-01-2019, 19:14
Reading this just reminded me that last night on Midlands local news the sports correspondent said "and dan's the only Brit left in the AO singles"
I thought Andy would'ave hit the ceiling.
;)
:rolling:
oop for Wednesday - https://ausopen.com/schedule#!8016
Sallydaisy
15-01-2019, 23:51
Watching the tennis on Amazon Prime?
Eurosport Xtra channels on Prime:
Screen: Court
1: RLA
2: MCA
3: Melbourne Arena
4: 1573
5: 3
6: 8
7: 5
8: 7
9: 10
10: 12
11: 13
12: 14
13: 15
14: 19
15: 22
16: 20
Poor old RBA. It's dĂ©jĂ* vu for him. He finds himself once again battling out a 5th set after comfortably winning the first 2 with a crowd very much cheering for his opponent, Millman.
Looks like he's going to come out on top again though!
Wow! I don't think I've ever seen RBA so animated after a win! He really went for it...vamos!!
Makes his respectful behaviour during and after the match with Andy all the better.
There's another tussle in a 5th set going on now between De Minaur and Laaksonen. De M won first 2 sets.
Going to be a late night for MaSha unless they move her match... Weird how that seems to be happening, one court going on much later than the rest.
De Minaur wins 6-3 in the fifth.
The two surprise (or maybe I mean disappointing) results for me today were Big Kev being beaten by Tiafoe and Monfils being beaten by Fritz.
oop for Thursday - https://ausopen.com/schedule#!8021
oop for Friday - https://ausopen.com/schedule#!8026
JAMES4578
17-01-2019, 16:20
A battle for Sacha against Chardy in entertaining contest and but he glad he pulled away in the 5th 6-1. Nishikori though was taken the distance by Karlovic, taking final set breaker 15-13!
themass15
17-01-2019, 18:04
Glad Sascha came through, also understand Djokovic didn't play that well although I didn't see any of it. Shame Jo couldn't come through her early morning tussle.
Mandiemoo
17-01-2019, 21:31
That's no Brit in the main singles now. Shame for Jo, can't believe they had to play at that time!
angiebabez
17-01-2019, 22:16
That's no Brit in the main singles now. Shame for Jo, can't believe they had to play at that time!
Best get used to that scenario again now Andy's gone :(
Jo played really want well and the match could have gone either way. I hope, once she gets over the disappointment, she will take a lot of positives from it. A 3.15 a.m. finish - ridiculous!
Matthew Ebden definitely has a career in commentating when he hangs up his racquet. He is currently commentating with Chris Bradnam on the Rafa match and easily eclipsing Bradnam - although I admit that isn't difficult!;)
JAMES4578
18-01-2019, 10:36
Berdych moved on on with a 4 set win over Schwartzman, seemed little trouble for Federer and Dimitrov also through in 3. Bit disappointing that Di Minaur with few answers to Nadal but closer 3rd set. Rafa will now play Berdy after closing out long final game.
De Minaur finally succumbs on the 4th match point.
Delighted to see Bautista Agut going through in straight sets, and Verdasco leading Cilic - 6 - 4, 5 - 2. Go Nando!!:thumbup: :thumbup:
Second set to Verdasco. who now leads 6 -4, 6 - 3. :cheer: :cheer:
Cilic took the third set 6 - 1
Nando recovering and leads 3 - 2 in the fourth set
Nando had a match point in the fourth set tb, but it is now two sets all!!
The look of sheer and utter disbelief on Nando's face when he served that DF in the TB actually made me giggle.
Come on Marin! Am I the only person in the world who likes him?! Following live scores at work.
The late night matches are a bone of contention and personally I think they should have a cut off to start a best of 5 set match and a different one for 3 sets. If a match starts at a reasonable time and goes long, that can't be helped but starting too late is another matter. I hear Jo is complaining about it but 'King' Roger has said it's fine, so it won't be changed any time soon will it? ;) :whistle::rolleyes:
No Caro. I like Marin too!
Cilic takes the fifth set 6-3.
I thought that was a very entertaining match. I'm glad Marin won, (sorry folks!) though I do feel really sorry for Nando. Tough loss; well most losses are tough but this one was pretty brutal. Even with the loss of Nando the Spanish Armada is sailing along very nicely. Rafa and RBA still afloat, with PCB still to play.
JAMES4578
18-01-2019, 14:26
certainly enjoyable match, though gutting for Verdasco being so close to the win, credit to Cilic though. Whilst I quite like Marin prefer Nando.
WimbledonWestie
18-01-2019, 19:04
Marin fan checking in here too, he's a player I've seen loads- at Wimbledon ( tho v Andy). Queen's and O2. Was thrilled to see him win Queen's last summer. A gentle giant, bit like Del Po.
oop for Saturday - https://ausopen.com/schedule#!8031
So sorry for Nando - I've always had a soft spot for him. A double fault on match point - he'll never forgive himself!!:faint:
banskogirl
18-01-2019, 23:23
So sorry for Nando - I've always had a soft spot for him. A double fault on match point - he'll never forgive himself!!:faint:
Me too :sad: I was very excited at one point thinking he was going to get the win but also thought Cilic has a knack for annoying me!
Great match brewing up now between Pouille and Popyrin. Young Aussie Pop has taken the third set on a TB after being 0-4 down. He has an early break in the 4th set.
Wow! As it turns midnight in Melbourne, Pop takes this match to a 5th set. Another sensational come back.
JAMES4578
19-01-2019, 13:12
Real battle, though Pouiile was looking like having a relatively straightfoward win not so long ago-great spirit from Popyrin though. Lucas up 2-1 in decider now.
Pouille over the line! Kudos to him for not folding, as he might have done in the past. But also praise must go to Pop. He's a fighter. Pouille saying he knows now how it would feel to play Australia in the Davis Cup.
JAMES4578
19-01-2019, 14:06
Wanted Pouillle to win really and he stepped up holding his nerve, however had to sve bp in final game. Credit to Alexei for his brave display, one to watch!
themass15
19-01-2019, 14:25
Me too :sad: I was very excited at one point thinking he was going to get the win but also thought Cilic has a knack for annoying me!
And me. Just can't warm to him.
oop for Sunday - https://ausopen.com/schedule#!8036
watching Dimi-Tiafoe would suggest to anyone who is able, watch it on player.
It's says how good it is just look at the time.
Yawn.
Excellent match from Tiafoe, he definitely deserved that. On his 21st birthday as well.
After two tie-break sets, Tsitsipas levels things up against Federer. Would make sense to move the last ladies match to MCA now surely, as that court finished when RBA beat Cilic.
Just had a look on the Eurosport Player at MCA. Apart from a couple of stragglers and a few officials wandering about, it is completely deserted.
Not watching, but keeping my eyes on the Live Scores. Hoping Tsitsipas can pull it off.
Excellent- just taken the 3rd. Keep it up.
Tsitsipas leads by two sets to one:cheer:
Tsitsipas takes the third set 7-5! Wonder if the crowd will turn nasty...
tsitsipas wins set 3, fedX fails to hold serve.
Vamos Tsitsipas! :swingin:
Fed serving to stay in the tournament!
tb time:sofa:
Go Stephanos!!
:yahoo: :yahoo: First grand slam quarter final for Greece.
:yahoo::yahoo::yahoo::yahoo: Tsitsipas wins
Yay he has done it. We won’t have to see Feddykins smug face for the rest of this tournament. Wonder what his excuse will be?
My prediction is “It’s unfair to make players, (ie me), play this late”.
I may have to watch the match later......,
lovetennis
20-01-2019, 12:04
Well done Stefanos. Bye bye Fed
RosieBear
20-01-2019, 12:17
Great match! A really enjoyable watch, both so stylish, do love a shbh. ST really toughed it out - didn't fancy his chances when he was a set down and having to save 8 bps, but well done him :clap:
WimbledonWestie
20-01-2019, 12:28
Fantastic match- and just what the doctor ordered to keep us excited about tennis
Bautista Agut has beaten Cilic in a 5 setter and will take on Tsitsipas in the next match.
oop for Monday - https://ausopen.com/schedule#!8041
jackie55
20-01-2019, 13:00
Bautista Agut has beaten Cilic in a 5 setter and will take on Tsitsipas in the next match.
Not sure who l will be rooting for, like them both RBA because he was a gentleman when he played Andy and ST because he reminds me of Bjorn Borg my first tennis love :love:
themass15
20-01-2019, 13:04
Brilliant win by Tsitsipas. Hope he can go all the wat now although I do like Roberto as well.
WimbledonWestie
20-01-2019, 13:26
Like them both. Likely to be asleep when they play. So will accept the result and back whoever it is.
I like both of them too but have Tsitsipas in the pickem so will continue to hope for him.
I’m delighted that Tsitsipas won and Bautista-Agut beat Cilic. I will cheering on Bautista-Agut as he has never gone this far before, whereas Tsitsipas has just started on his career.
Made my day!! xx
Mine too!:clap::clap::clap:
I really enjoyed the match between Tsit and Fed, if for nothing else but the pure tennis played; such lovely shot making and frequent jaunts to the net. It was an absolute pleasure to watch and all the more so when Tsit won. As for the Cilic/RBA match, I enjoyed it too. Broke off from the Fed match to watch this one from time to time. Another tough 5 setter for RBA to come through. I was torn between these 2; I have great respect for RBA, especially after the Andy match, but I like Marin too. However, happy enough to see RBA go through to his first slam QF.
So singles defending champion out.
I'm sorry Dimi has gone, but I don't think he ever looked like he was going to go deep into this tournament.
Already 2 'next gens' in the QF's, Tiafoe and Tsit. There are 3 more in the other half of the draw, Medvedev (age 22), Zverev (age21), Coric (age 22) and do you count Pouille at age 24?
Looks like this is all brewing up into an exciting climax. Hope so.
Edit: Oops! I apologise. Angie is not, of course, defending champion. Sorry Caroline, and thank you James for reminding me. :doh:
RoastLamb
20-01-2019, 16:30
Very pleased for Stefanos. Hope he wins the whole thing now (well, if Rafa and Milos don't that is. :lol:)
banskogirl
20-01-2019, 16:30
What a great night of tennis! Loved watching Tstfish whatever, with his style of tennis, love that BA won again, every match he wins must help Andy feel better, and Shrieky is out!
I don't feel the happiness, when Fed loses, that I once did, I feel the more he goes on the better for the older guys to keep playing........Andy if possible, but still great to see the young'uns.
JAMES4578
20-01-2019, 17:00
Certainly was a great performance for Tsitsipas in a gripping contest and he was so tough mentally, The Fed of old would've have capitalised on some of the chances though and now failed to progress beyond the quarters in the 3 slams since his triumph here in 2018. Glad to see Bautista Agut coming through against Cilic in the end and was strong (though 3rd 5 setter now) Disappointed Dimi out to Tiafoe but The American inspired with the Bulgarian faltering too often lately. A few exciting young players, perhaps too early to talk of changing of guard just yet though.
Mandiemoo
20-01-2019, 19:29
Shock to see Fed out, not sure it's a changing of the guard just yet but perhaps we will see some different names in the later stages of the slams.
What a great night of tennis! Loved watching Tstfish whatever, with his style of tennis, love that BA won again, every match he wins must help Andy feel better, and Shrieky is out!
I don't feel the happiness, when Fed loses, that I once did, I feel the more he goes on the better for the older guys to keep playing........Andy if possible, but still great to see the young'uns.
Absolutely - my feelings on every point!
Rosalind
20-01-2019, 23:38
Just watched Dimi and Tiafoe - another new star. Very enjoyable match. A sort of disciplined Nick K.
Milos Raonic thrashes Sascha Zverev 6-1 6-1 7-6(5)
Milos Raonic thrashes Sascha Zverev 6-1 6-1 7-6(5)
Interesting ......... Zverev just can't seem to do it at the Majors, Lendl or no Lendl.
Nishikori has just levelled at 2 sets all from 2 down, Nole strolling so far, already a set up.
Nishikori was broken whilst serving for the match.
Now into a match tie break decider.
Medvedev desperately trying to hold to get into a second set TB against Nole.
JAMES4578
21-01-2019, 12:17
Zverev again failing to live up to billing, does not mean he cannot ever excel in slam but certainly work to do-first two sets a bit of a calamity. Medvedev finally takes 2nd on breaker 7-5,whilst Carreno Busta was up up 8-6 in final set breaker but Nishikori takes it 10-8.
From 8-6 down, Nishikori takes the next 4 points to win 10-8.
Wow! What a stormer of a match between Kei and PCB. A brutal one to lose. A wee observation about the final set 10 point TB: if it had been the usual 7 point breaker PCB would have won the match as he was 7-5 up at that stage, but first to10 was Kei. :shrug::hmm: Wimbledon will have the 12 point breaker...I wonder who would have won that?
Sallydaisy
21-01-2019, 13:06
OOP FOR TUESDAY 22ND JANUARY
https://ausopen.com/schedule#!8046
There are boys and girls Brits in action.
Glad Milos won through. :cheer:
Sallydaisy
21-01-2019, 13:45
Djokovic d D.Medvedev 6-4, 6-7(5), 6-2, 6-3
Next plays Nishikori in the Quarters, hope Kei gets some rest first!
Sallydaisy
21-01-2019, 13:48
MENS QUARTER-FINALS LINE-UP
Some new names on the block ...
Djokovic v Nishikori
Raonic v Pouille
Bautista Agut v Tsitsipas
Tiafoe v Nadal
Twitter David Law @DavidLawTennis (https://twitter.com/DavidLawTennis) 4m4 minutes ago (https://twitter.com/DavidLawTennis/status/1087345115415293957)
Good finish from Djokovic, who wins in 4, but from our position at the back of the court you could see him doing a fair bit of wincing and stretching after that third set fall. Looks a bit sore. At least, from his perspective, Nishikori (18 sets in 4 matches) will feel worse.
RoastLamb
21-01-2019, 14:30
Good for Milos! I kept expecting Zverev to come back and win the last three but he did not. Not sure why he couldn't play better today. Also watching Med. vs Djoko was sooooooooooooo boring. ugh all those long rallies.
RosieBear
21-01-2019, 15:24
Zverev again failing to live up to billing, does not mean he cannot ever excel in slam but certainly work to do-first two sets a bit of a calamity. Medvedev finally takes 2nd on breaker 7-5,whilst Carreno Busta was up up 8-6 in final set breaker but Nishikori takes it 10-8.
I absolutey agree! There's still plenty of time for young Sascha in the slams, but he's not there yet. He and Raonic are an interesting match up. I often think that Sascha is a very similar level to Raonic when the Canadian first joined the tour. Like Sascha, Raonic was prematurely touted as champ and world no 1 etc, but he's living proof that you can add so much to a game if you're willing to and now I think he's a genuine slam contender, and would be a worthy rather than flukey champ. Personally I think Sascha should take a leaf out of Raonic's book and work with someone like MacEnroe to develop volleys and an all court game - I don't see Lendl as a great match, that said Mr L will always help in the mental strength dept, so we'll have to see.
I didn't even notice Raonic's name in the draw so forgot all about him when doing the comps. (I found the draw almost impossible to read; I couldn't find a version in the usual format.)
Zverev again failing to live up to billing, does not mean he cannot ever excel in slam but certainly work to do-first two sets a bit of a calamity. Medvedev finally takes 2nd on breaker 7-5,whilst Carreno Busta was up up 8-6 in final set breaker but Nishikori takes it 10-8.
Agree James, didn't watch the match but was more shocked at the scoreline, mind Zverev had 10 double faults that's a lot in one match & surprised Milos only had 15 Aces!
I didn't even notice Raonic's name in the draw so forgot all about him when doing the comps. (I found the draw almost impossible to read; I couldn't find a version in the usual format.)
I find the layout of the oop and results difficult to read too.
I only look on flashscores.co.uk for results etc.
exislander
21-01-2019, 21:26
I find the ausopen website is very clear for schedules and results.
exislander
22-01-2019, 05:24
Tsitsipas into the semi beating Bautista Agut 7-5,4-6,6-4,7-6(2). I like the way he plays and he seems an interesting character too.
JAMES4578
22-01-2019, 11:11
Was in two minds over this one as like both, however Tsitsipas mighty impressive and would seem to be a real prospect, well done!
RosieBear
22-01-2019, 12:04
So Rafa through without any problems. Looking forward to his semi against Stephanos, should be some match. I hope Stephanos comes through, love him, he's so stylish and charismatic but rooting for Kei or Raonic to become overall winner - they've been close for so long and paid their dues, time for one of them to get their hands on a slam.
JAMES4578
22-01-2019, 12:47
Would probably prefer Kei this time, however think chances limited and he has been involved in quite a few tough matches-may still be the old guard keeping grip on the slams for now.
Tsitsipas into the semi beating Bautista Agut 7-5,4-6,6-4,7-6(2). I like the way he plays and he seems an interesting character too.
He's a very interesting character indeed. For his young age, he is so realistic and pragmatic. I loved his on court interview with Courier. Best line for me was "...it is real. It just happened..." (on winning the QF and progressing into his first slam semi.) I have subscribed to his YouTube channel!
I also love this little video clip of a 13 year old Stefanos....
https://t.co/SLfgyeCrX2
(https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1087190860028989441?s=09)
Rosalind
22-01-2019, 13:52
Tsitsipas into the semi beating Bautista Agut 7-5,4-6,6-4,7-6(2). I like the way he plays and he seems an interesting character too.
I have been very impressed. However my mum, not knowing much about tennis but she watches the news headlines to keep up with my interest, called him Sissy-pants. I can't think of him as anything else now.... :rolling: I think he's going to be around for a long time too.
I have been very impressed. However my mum, not knowing much about tennis but she watches the news headlines to keep up with my interest, called him Sissy-pants. I can't think of him as anything else now.... :rolling: I think he's going to be around for a long time too.
from Twitter:
1412
RoastLamb
22-01-2019, 14:39
Well Rafa took care of Tiafoe pretty efficiently. Happy for Stefanos! That looks like it'll be a very exciting semi-final, I just wish Stefanos was playing Djokovic not Rafa. Good luck to Milos tonight!
I have been very impressed. However my mum, not knowing much about tennis but she watches the news headlines to keep up with my interest, called him Sissy-pants. I can't think of him as anything else now.... :rolling: I think he's going to be around for a long time too.
My husband has another name for him I'm afraid - not nearly as polite as your mum's Rosalind - S****-His-Pants! I'll leave the first word to your imagination!!!
Rosalind
22-01-2019, 15:17
from Twitter:
1412
haha - I did think it was the sort of thing a 7 year old would think hysterical !
Well Rafa took care of Tiafoe pretty efficiently. Happy for Stefanos! That looks like it'll be a very exciting semi-final, I just wish Stefanos was playing Djokovic not Rafa. Good luck to Milos tonight!
How about our Milos eh !!!!
Hes looking really good !
oop for Wednesday - https://ausopen.com/schedule#!8051
Lucas Pouille beats Milos Raonic in 4. How far can Kei Nishikori now stretch Nole?
Not very far on the basis of the first set... 6-1.
Sallydaisy
23-01-2019, 09:41
Djokovic through 6'1, 4'1 (ret), Nishikori over and out.
RosieBear
23-01-2019, 10:00
Shame for poor Kei, he had nothing left after previous bruising encounters :sad: Thankfully seems like fatigue rather than yet more injury. Disappointed that Raonic lost - thought he might get his big break through after looking so good to dispatch Nick K and Sascha, but not to be. Not keen on Pouille, tbh. As exciting as Tsitsipas is, money has to be on a Nole-Rafa final. There is something very nice about seeing Andy's gen still dominant - suggests there is time for Andy to come back if surgery can overcome his hip problem.
JAMES4578
23-01-2019, 10:18
Real pity for Kei but previous matches had taken their toll, he is injury prone though (even if it turns out to be more fatigue this time) . Hard to say how well Djokovic was playing but even if has not been at best in previous matches sure to step up. I quite like Pouille's game and done well to reach first slam semi after some disappointments last year.
I have to say I was convinced Milos would take Pouille out. Shocked when I saw the result, but well done Lucas. Not a great Lucas fan myself, but I did like his comments about Amelie..."she knows everything about tennis. It's not about being a woman or a man. It doesn't matter." Well said Lucas.
Sorry for Kei. I'm sure he's pretty upset himself too. But he really was knackered. He could hardly climb the steps on the way back to the locker room.
Sad to see Kei and Milos go out. :taz:
oop for Thursday - https://ausopen.com/schedule#!8056
Mandiemoo
23-01-2019, 19:25
I'm getting behind Rafa for the title, enjoyed seeing some new faces go further, think Rafa has best chance to beat Djoker but happy to be proven wrong as long as its not a Djoker win.
Vamos!
BBC preview for tomorrow - https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/tennis/46973282
RoastLamb
23-01-2019, 19:43
oh Milos :crying:
How disappointing was that??? Milos totally seemed to forget how to play. Dunno what happened but it was a shocker. He totally lost that match and Pouille is going to get pummelled by Djokovic. Boo!
I know Fiona , I was so hoping he might make a breakthru here , he was playing so well , but then that match happened , what a hot mess he was
Rosalind
24-01-2019, 10:24
Rafa in another class against SissyPants. I wanted our new star to win but not to be just yet. His time will come.
themass15
24-01-2019, 10:43
Stefanos will be one for the future no doubt; I do hope Rafa goes all the way now!
Rafa wins 6-2 6-4 6-0. And now gets an extra days rest, not that he'll need it after that.
JAMES4578
24-01-2019, 10:54
Nadal certainly in great form, however disappointed with Tsitsipas (however maybe he was a bit weary) and still did have great run here. He should have better moments in the future but challenge ended when he lost serve at 4 all in 2nd.
Rafa was awesome! Although Stefanos came up short today, and when he recovers from the disappointment, he must surely have gained very valuable experience and insight as to what he needs to do to reach the next level. Rafa's play today must have been an eye-opener for him. But still, not a bad weeks work reaching the semis of a slam. He's on everyone's watch list now. As for Rafa, who needs an extra day off when you can wrap matches up so quickly! But he has the extra day anyway. Not sure about that sort of scheduling. Personally, I think the semis should be played on the same day. Well played Rafa.
themass15
24-01-2019, 11:33
I think Wimbledon has it right when from the quarters they play the singles on the same day; that way it is fairer to all.
Disappointing match. But I LOVE this new Rafa. So much more fun to watch. Well done him for reinventing himself. I've long thought Andy's grit and determination are like a double edged sword. The other side is stubbornness. He delayed his back op too long IMHO, people spent years trying to get him to play more aggressively and to come to the net. So much time wasted. I'd like to think he could have the hip op and make a comeback but that would certainly require changing his game. He'd need to be much more receptive and flexible than he seems to have been in the past.
RosieBear
24-01-2019, 13:58
Ditto everything Mrs P says above. Rafa was incredible and his new game infinitely more watchable. Looking like the champ to me. And yes, credit to him. Tough for Tsits to come up against pretty much the best Rafa I've ever seen, but that kid has a huge future. Love him!
So that's Fed and Rafa who have re-modelled their game with great success, please, please, let there be a chance for Andy to do the same :peace:
oop for Friday - https://ausopen.com/schedule#!8061
A bit of a procession, 6-0 6-2 6-2.
RosieBear
25-01-2019, 10:28
Total cakewalk. Ugh, these one sided semis - tennis badly missing a healthy Stan, Delpo and most of all Andy.
themass15
25-01-2019, 10:31
The semis at the Australian Open have been disappointing for the last 2 years. The Final should be much better. Go Rafa!!!!
What a disappointing semi but totally expected. Both Rafa and Nole giving the 'the young guns' a masterclass and also making a very clear statement to them..." you've a way to go yet guys to get the better of us." But I reckon we are guaranteed a great final. Should be a super tennis match.
JAMES4578
25-01-2019, 10:53
Certainly a rout for Djokovic and most disappointing as a contest, however we seen Nole in supreme form and should be a great match up with Nadal given their respective performances. Pouille seem to feel the pressure and could not realy get going though even in better form would not have been able to challenge the world no 1.
RoastLamb
25-01-2019, 14:56
Yeah very disappointing. I knew that Milos lost that match and that Pouille would get pummelled by Djoko. I'm not saying Milos would have beaten Djoko but he would have given more to chew on I would imagine.
HoopGirl
25-01-2019, 19:16
Disappointing match. But I LOVE this new Rafa. So much more fun to watch. Well done him for reinventing himself. I've long thought Andy's grit and determination are like a double edged sword. The other side is stubbornness. He delayed his back op too long IMHO, people spent years trying to get him to play more aggressively and to come to the net. So much time wasted. I'd like to think he could have the hip op and make a comeback but that would certainly require changing his game. He'd need to be much more receptive and flexible than he seems to have been in the past.
Totally agree - Andy has also overtrained. we on here have been just some of the folk urging him to shorten his points by being more aggressive, come to the net and sort his serve out.
Maybe it's less him being stubborn but he's tried and can't. I hope that's not the case but why wouldn't he have done it before now? We thought that Amelie Mauresmo was brought in to help him with this.
Look at how Nadal and Djokovic have benefitted from completing matches so quickly - they will be so much fresher for their final.
HoopGirl
25-01-2019, 19:17
So many years Andy has been involved in an epic semi or epic final at the AO - feels strange he's not here!
Rosalind
25-01-2019, 19:40
Wow glad i hadn't forked out money to watch the semis! Turned on this evening to chillax and watch Djokovic. Should have known when the recording length was 1hour and 20 or something ridiculous. Hopefully the final will be a show of skill and the best one wins after a 5 setter.
RoastLamb
25-01-2019, 21:45
So apparently Milos IS injured - his knee. Which makes a lot of sense now. There was no way Pouille would have beaten him other wise. Sad tho'. Milos is always getting injured now and just can't seem to get a decent run.
oop for Saturday - https://ausopen.com/schedule#!8066
RosieBear
26-01-2019, 08:39
Totally agree - Andy has also overtrained. we on here have been just some of the folk urging him to shorten his points by being more aggressive, come to the net and sort his serve out.
Maybe it's less him being stubborn but he's tried and can't. I hope that's not the case but why wouldn't he have done it before now? We thought that Amelie Mauresmo was brought in to help him with this.
Look at how Nadal and Djokovic have benefitted from completing matches so quickly - they will be so much fresher for their final.
Hmm, I'm not sure that I think he tried and failed - he's capable of pretty much anything on a court and def capable of shortening points when he wants to. Maybe he hadn't felt a strong need to make changes. I mean, playing his way he was winning everything in sight in the second half of 2016. Then very early 2017 he was struggling, shingles then injury. He went from all to nothing very quickly - maybe if he had a long period where he was playing but struggling as Fed did with his back and Rafa with his knees, the need and opportunity for change might have been clearer cut. But who knows :shrug:
HoopGirl
26-01-2019, 14:51
Hmm, I'm not sure that I think he tried and failed - he's capable of pretty much anything on a court and def capable of shortening points when he wants to. Maybe he hadn't felt a strong need to make changes. I mean, playing his way he was winning everything in sight in the second half of 2016. Then very early 2017 he was struggling, shingles then injury. He went from all to nothing very quickly - maybe if he had a long period where he was playing but struggling as Fed did with his back and Rafa with his knees, the need and opportunity for change might have been clearer cut. But who knows :shrug:
Mind you Andy has been saying that he just did what he was told in terms of how much he trained. It's hard to believe that he didn't feel he could say this was too much. Maybe none of his advisors never thought he should shorten the points just outlast the other.
Still hopefully Andy still has more in his tank!
BBC (https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/tennis/47004266) - Australian Open 2019: Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal meet in final
themass15
27-01-2019, 08:43
Vamos Rafa!
RosieBear
27-01-2019, 09:27
Well, not yet the epic many were anticipating - surprisingly easy first set goes to Nole (6-3). Signs that Rafa is beginning to raise his game, so fingers x'd we do get an incredible battle.
RosieBear
27-01-2019, 10:00
Ooooft. Many, myself included, thought this would be 50-50. Nole obviously had other ideas - unplayable. Nothing Rafa can do.
lovetennis
27-01-2019, 10:02
Certainly looking ominous for Rafa now. Djoko is simply unplayable
Sadly, not the much vaunted clash of the Titans. C'mon Rafa!
RosieBear
27-01-2019, 10:03
Simply unplayable, second set Nole 6-2
lovetennis
27-01-2019, 10:04
Djoko serves out the 2nd set like an absolute machine
Mandiemoo
27-01-2019, 10:08
Thought I'd watch the mens final, maybe even enjoy it as an impartial observer. Not happening, just making me depressed seeing Djoker have it all his own way. Now they've shown Lendl, I'm missing Andy all over again. Hoping Rafa can find a way to push Djoker.
I have to say the the women's final was far more entertaining. I was really looking forward to this match but I'm finding this procession thoroughly depressing.
lovetennis
27-01-2019, 10:32
I have to say the the women's final was far more entertaining. I was really looking forward to this match but I'm finding this procession thoroughly depressing.
I suspect the rest of the men's locker room will be feeling the same
Rosalind
27-01-2019, 10:33
I have to say the the women's final was far more entertaining. I was really looking forward to this match but I'm finding this procession thoroughly depressing.
Yes I agree. I thought this was going to be a humdingrr but Drafa is being outclassed.
Well there you have it. A disappointing match but all you can say is well played Djokovic - he owns the Rod Laver arena!
RosieBear
27-01-2019, 10:55
Disappointing lack of competition, but Novak was unbelieveable. Sublime. So credit to him. Holds 3 of the slams now, and now he has the monkey off his back, I wouldn't be surprised if picks up the French as well. Yes, it's galling that he's a week younger than Andy and plays an equally physical game, but life just ain't fair. So I like to remind myself that Novak has no Olympic gold medals, and who is the only man in history to have two...oh yeah, our Andy :thumbup:
lovetennis
27-01-2019, 10:56
Hugely impressive from Djoko, so can't take that away from him but when he gives the no.2 player such a pasting the entertainment value wasn't there for me.
I'm sure Lucas Pouille will feel considerably better about his performance in the semis after watching that!
Rosalind
27-01-2019, 11:03
Just on the more mundane.. has Lendl lost weight and considerably smartened himself up?
Ps that was an exceedingly boring let down entertainment wise
lovetennis
27-01-2019, 11:04
I'm sure Lucas Pouille will feel considerably better about his performance in the semis after watching that!
Djoko's performance today will send a ripple of fear through the men's locker room. It's up to some of them and step up and challenge him, like Andy did so many times but blimey what a challenge. He has reverted to that machine mode of about 5 years ago and it's downright scary
lovetennis
27-01-2019, 11:05
Just on the more mundane.. has Lendl lost weight and considerably smartened himself up?
Ps that was an exceedingly boring let down entertainment wise
I thought he looked trimmer too. I assumed the suit was due to him being an official guest but not sure if that was the case
JAMES4578
27-01-2019, 11:10
Big matches don't always live up to the hype but expected at least some sort of battle, in that sense most disappointing. However Djokovic was devestating and in supreme form, there seemed little Nadal could do to challenge him and Nole seems the dominant player once again (now 3 comsecutive slams) Form in lead up and early matches here coupled with Nadal's display gave some hope but the Serb often steps up when it matters (though did not think it would be quite in this fashion)
themass15
27-01-2019, 11:12
Never seen Lendl looking so smart; best I have seen him look for a long time. Disappointing match although Djokovic was on top form. Whatever, he does though I cannot seem to warm to him.
Rosalind
27-01-2019, 11:19
Not only does Novak play out of this world, his knowledge and fluency in English is superb. Ah, all this is easier to say since Andy's absence.
Well, well. There's nought as queer as sport! Didn't expect the match to be so one-sided. I feel a bit cheated; I don't mind Djok winning, he deserved it, I just mind that the match wasn't a classic fight. It throws up a few questions in my mind. Until today Rafa was awesome. Does that say more about Rafa or more about his previous opponents? And did Djok play so well today because there wasn't a big challenge from Rafa or was Rafa simply not allowed to challenge? Both won when it came to their speeches though. Rafa being philosophical and accepting, and grateful, he has achieved so much after injury time out. Djok gracious and mindful of all those who have helped and supported him along the way. Tennis fest over for a while. It has been a good tournament, starting with that epic match of Andy's, and I think the women's final stole a march on the men's.
exislander
27-01-2019, 12:06
I thought he looked trimmer too. I assumed the suit was due to him being an official guest but not sure if that was the case
I think the suit was because he was presenting the trophies. He did look smart for the Wimbledon dinners when with Andy. Maybe he has lost weight due to being fitter since he has had a hip operation?
RoastLamb
27-01-2019, 16:36
Ugh so disappointing. If you're a Rafa fan like me, that is. If you're a Djokovic fan then it was AMAZING! :lol:
I reckon when all is done and dusted Djokovic will have more slams than Federer.
banskogirl
27-01-2019, 17:24
Ugh so disappointing. If you're a Rafa fan like me, that is. If you're a Djokovic fan then it was AMAZING! :lol:
I reckon when all is done and dusted Djokovic will have more slams than Federer.
Beginning to think you're right :sad: never thought that would annoy me! Would still rather Rafa beat them both though.
I know Nole played great but don't think Rafa played half as well as he did against Toofus. In my perfect dream scenario Andy is watching it, taking notes and about to have his op, which will bring him back next year, with said notes........and he will wallop Nole..........
Disappointing match. Rafa didn't really show up, such a shame. Really wanted him to win.
Glad I didn't stay up for it.
goldfish
27-01-2019, 18:46
I have definitely not been a great fan of Novak recently but today I feel he deserved praise for his amazing match. Well done to him. Now I actually would like him to up his tally of GS wins and overtake Fed. Not sure if he can do it but I'd also be happy for Rafa to overtake Fed. If Andy can't do it, then good luck to anyone who can. What an incredible trio to be playing at this time. Such a shame Andy has had so many setbacks so hasn't been able to capitalise on his talent to the same extent.
RoastLamb
28-01-2019, 14:58
I have definitely not been a great fan of Novak recently but today I feel he deserved praise for his amazing match. Well done to him. Now I actually would like him to up his tally of GS wins and overtake Fed. Not sure if he can do it but I'd also be happy for Rafa to overtake Fed. If Andy can't do it, then good luck to anyone who can. What an incredible trio to be playing at this time. Such a shame Andy has had so many setbacks so hasn't been able to capitalise on his talent to the same extent.
I'd also like to see Djoko overtake Federer but, alas, I really don't think Rafa will. I do know this: if Djoko keeps playing the way he is now for the next two or three years Federer will never win another slam again.
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