Newspaper and internet reports [Archive] - Page 6

lynne

09-05-2012, 23:11

BBC Sport.(Jamie video)..............http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18013203

tennishead by Mark Petchey..............http://www.tennishead.net/news/academy/2012/04/20/how-to-return-to-sender-like-murray#.T6sKuFEL-zM.facebook

MarketWatch (Wimbledon)...............http://www.marketwatch.com/story/media-advisory-stay-nearby-wimbledon-tennis-club-to-queue-early-enough-to-see-andy-murrays-battle-for-the-mens-wimbledon-championship-2012-05-09

Live Tennis Guide................http://www.livetennisguide.com/2012/05/09/roger-federer-andy-murray-to-play-basel-open-2012/

ESPN...............http://espn.go.com/tennis/story/_/id/7901211/tennis-rafael-nadal-stopped-dirt

Yahoo Sport............http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/blogs/simon-reed/even-best-murray-falls-just-short-143006193.html

Bleacher..........http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1175033-london-olympics-2012-3-reasons-andy-murray-will-come-away-with-gold

SI.com............http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/tennis/news/20120508/madrid-open-wta-matchups/

Bleacher.........http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1176363-madrid-open-2012-roger-federer-versus-milos-raonic-in-a-2nd-round-blockbuster

Linda

10-05-2012, 18:55

Can I make a request here? That people posting links to news items also post a few words to say what it is about? Because I don't have time to read them all and would like a guide - or at least the title of the article - as to which ones I would most like to read! Thanks very much :)

cazza99

10-05-2012, 19:47

Sun (http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/news/4305510/Brick-point-for-Andy-Murray.html) - Brick point for Andy Murray

Fox Sport (http://bleacherreport.com/tb/bgDT9?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=tennis)- Nadal uses new tactic to win in Madrid
(yesterdays)

Fina

11-05-2012, 09:55

The first of Greg's 'warnings' - http://www.cityam.com/sport/murray-has-work-cut-out-win-olympic-gold-warns-rusedski

cazza99

11-05-2012, 19:56

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/andymurray/9260768/Andy-Murray-turns-25-next-week-and-would-love-a-grand-slam-this-year.-Or-is-he-already-too-old.html) - Andy Murray turns 25 next week and would love a grand slam this year. Or is he already too old?

Tennis Space (http://www.thetennisspace.com/opinion/oddballs-and-oddities-17/)- Oddballs and Oddities

cazza99

13-05-2012, 16:46

Scotland on Sunday (http://www.scotsman.com/scotland-on-sunday/sport/my-cup-final-andy-murray-1-2291991)- My cup final: Andy Murray

ATP Mix (http://www.atpmix.se/2012/05/13/the-world%C2%B4s-fastest-serve-by-frederik-nielsen/) - The world´s fastest serve (by Frederik Nielsen)
fastest serve now 263 km/hour = 163 miles per hour

tennis world (http://www.tennisworldusa.org/Murray-Gets-Nightmare-Draw-For-Rome-articolo4196.html) - Murray Gets Nightmare Draw For Rome

tennis spac (http://www.thetennisspace.com/top-10/top-10-hairstyles/)e - Top 10 hairstyles

Andy Murray’s Afro. Whether or not Murray believes in clichéd expressions, it seems there was one he whole-heartedly embraced: go big or go home. Kept in peat and fed with plenty of Miami sunlight during the winter break, Murray’s afro made its brief and tumultuous debut at the 2008 Australian Open. He lost in the first-round. Afro conspiracies aside, it was probably a good thing it got the chop. According to his website, Andy said: “What the woman in the salon must have been thinking when we turned up, I really don’t know.” Nor do I.

cazza99

15-05-2012, 15:57

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/novakdjokovic/9261869/Novak-Djokovic-pays-tribute-to-inspirational-grandfather.html) - Novak Djokovic pays tribute to inspirational grandfather

Sky Sports (http://www1.skysports.com/tennis/news/12110/7756605/Murray-returns-in-Rome) - Murray returns in Rome

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/15052012/58/croft-murray-win-olympic-gold.html)- Croft: Murray can win Olympic gold

Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-2144415/Andy-Murray-inspiration-Roger-Federer.html) - Roger's revival can show birthday boy Murray the way to greatness

Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/tennis/andy-murray-looking-for-redhot-run-after-avoiding-the-blues-7743479.html)- Andy Murray looking for red-hot run after avoiding the blues

ESPN (http://www.espn.co.uk/espn/sport/story/150913.html) - Smart move to miss Madrid - Murray

Sportsbeat/More than the Games (http://www.morethanthegames.co.uk/summer-sports/1517142-london-2012-andy-murray-better-prepared-olympic-gold-says-tv-presenter-annabel) - LONDON 2012: Andy Murray better prepared for Olympic gold says TV presenter Annabel Croft

Hearald Scotland (http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/tennis/rusedski-claims-murray-has-to-change-his-mindset-to-break-major-duck.17596499) - Rusedski claims Murray has to change his mindset to break major duck

Tennistalk (http://www.tennistalk.com/en/previews/20120515/Murray_takes_on_Nalbandian_in_Rome_second_round) - Murray takes on Nalbandian in Rome second round

ATP site (http://www.atpworldtour.com/News/Tennis/2012/05/20/Rome-Tuesday-Briefing.aspx) - TUESDAY PREVIEW– REIGNING CHAMP DJOKOVIC, MURRAY, TSONGA, FERRER IN OPENING ACTION

In the next match, former World No. 3 David Nalbandian meets No. 4 Andy Murray, who has a 4-2 career advantage over the Argentine, winning the past four meetings. This will be their first encounter on clay. Nalbandian, who is playing in Rome for the first time in four years, has an 11-6 career mark here, reaching the final in 2004 (l. to Moya) and semi-finals in ’06 (l. to Federer). Murray, a semi-finalist last year (l. to Djokovic), is making his seventh straight trip to Rome (6-7 mark). The 24-year-old Scot is playing in his third clay court tournament of the year (4-2 mark). Last week he withdrew from Madrid due to a back injury.

10sballs.com (http://www.10sballs.com/2012/05/14/andy-murray-excited-about-opportunity-to-play-at-london-olympics/) - Andy Murray Excited About Opportunity to Play at London Olympics

Tennis X (http://www.tennis-x.com/xblog/2012-05-14/9550.php)- Andy Murray: My Back Is Fine, I Feel Pretty Good, The Next 4 Months Will Determine No. 1

Bleacher (http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1182331-why-andy-murray-will-walk-away-with-his-first-grand-slam-in-2012)- Why Andy Murray Will Walk Away with His First Grand Slam in 2012

Tennistalk (http://www.tennistalk.com/en/news/20120514/Murray_ends_up_with_loaded_quarter_in_Rome) - Murray ends up with loaded quarter in Rome

Sun (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/tennis/4314083/Boris-Becker-Ivan-Lendl-is-working-his-magic-on-Andy-Murray.html) - Muzza is Ivan-tastic

Becker said: “I think you can see the difference already on Andy’s forehand, his position on the court, his attitude is much more positive and disciplined than it was before.

“Hard courts or grass are his best surface, not clay. I can’t wait for Wimbledon and for him to show what he’s learnt.”

cazza99

15-05-2012, 16:00

Tennis TV (http://www.tennistv.com/video)- Rome - Andy's pretournament interview video

Rome site (http://www.internazionalibnlditalia.com/News/Tennis/2012/Interview-Transcripts/Andy-Murray-Sunday.aspx) - Andy's pretournament interview transcript

Sunday, 13 May, 2012

An interview with: ANDY MURRAY

Q: After your recent injury , how do you feel now?
Murray: Well, I am pretty good. I have taken 10 days off from Barcelona and I
started training – I got here on Tuesday evening and so I've been
practicing……. because it is difficult to come directly from Madrid
because of the altitude…..and so these are the conditions to practice,
the weather is perfect.
Q: Andy, is the injury fully cleared now?
Murray: Yes, I think so. I have been training are six or seven days and it feels
fine.
Q: Andy, I'm sure you watched some of the games in Madrid on TV –
or you watched some clips….
Murray: I didn't watch anything in Madrid…..
Q: OK. Considering what is going on in Madrid, was this a good week
to miss for you?
Murray: Yes, probably. It was my decision to stop. Everyone has been plodding
on. People have been saying that I was much smarter than they were
and so – Yes . .. obviously the condition there were not ideal and with
the French Open just a couple of weeks away – I'm not going to have to
make adjustments which I would have had to do from Madrid.
Q: Seeing that you haven't played competitively for a couple of weeks
– does that make this week – seeing that this is your last
competitive week before the French Open ……
Murray: Yes – I it is important – I mean – the draw seems to be strong and I was
there and every name that came out seemed to be a top match so it is
going to be very hard from the start and I know but I am going to play
and get as many matches as possible. Its Sunday today and the French
Open is two weeks away and so all the matches you can get – every
gym session will help towards that and this is important for me – just
making sure you are in good shape.
Q: You haven't reached a final in a clay tournament and so is that a
bit of a challenge for you and have Ivan been giving you some
fresh insight into how to take that in your step?
Murray: Well, yes. I think that obviously have played 3 or 4 clay court event
every year and they are all Master series or the French Open and so
they are always the strongest events,. It is always a surface on which I
struggle but I think last year I had some good results and this year …….
I think that I am better that at the same stage last year and so I think that
this will help with certain things and being in better shape and being
fitter will help get further in the events.
Q: Andy – how difficult is this period ….. the next couple of months
with the French Open coming up and Wimbledon.
Murray: I think it is very tough. You know – tennis is a physical sport and you
know – We have the French Open then Wimbledon and then the
Olympics and it is only a couple of weeks after that the American Open
and so – the next four moths are going to be tough. They are going to
decide pretty much who is going to finish up number one in the world
with 4 major competitions and that is why everyone is working and every
week and every day is important not only for training but also for rest.
Q: You didn't have the best record here – is there anything about the
conditions here that makes it different from other clay court
events?
Murray: Well, it always felt for me very different coming from Madrid – coming
from altitude but not only with this tournament – I didn't do pretty well in
clay tournaments at the beginning of my career. The conditions here
are good – its pretty warm and quite fast --- obviously last year was the
last time I played a good tournament . Its not to do with the conditions –
sometimes when you don't play well in a tournament for a few years. I
mean – Roger has had a few results here that you wouldn't expect and
so….. the conditions re usually good –its not normally windy….
Q: You say you feel more comfortable this time in the year compared
with last year. What have you learned with the past few matches.
Murray: I think that last year I hadn't had a match ………… just in practice – last
year I lost a lot of practice and I wasn't feeling that comfortable feel I am
getting to know the surface a lot better and I am playing a lot of good
matches – against top guys and do this year I have come in with a lot
more confidence.
Q: Tennis is a day by day work. Do you feel that you are making
progress in some specific part of your game .. like in one year time
you notice you are playing better in second serve or backhand……
or drop shot…is there anything that you realise that you are doing
better.
Murray: I feel the second serve this year feels better. The thing is that If I
watched the video of 3 years ago I would see major improvements – I
mean – that is what sport is like. But on a day to day basis you don't
notice anything – if I've improved a lot from yesterday. I am sure if you
did it in 6 months blocks – like people that have kids at home and you
see them every day then you don’t notice the difference but if you are
away for a couple of weeks then you notice the difference. I don't know if
that is a good example.

andyfer

15-05-2012, 17:00

Not sure if anyone has already posted this but Andy will be appearing on Ringside,Sky sports 2, 6pm
Thursday.
This is their boxing magazine show. Johnny Nelson and Adam Smith travelled to Rome to interview him.
Nice work if you can get it !!

cazza99

15-05-2012, 19:54

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18078676)- Andy Murray defeats David Nalbandian on clay in Rome

Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-2144891/Andy-Murray-beats-David-Nalbandian-Rome-Masters.html?ito=feeds-newsxml) - Birthday boy Murray weathers Nalbandian fightback to edge in to third round in Rome

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/may/15/andy-murray-rome-masters-nalbandian?newsfeed=true) - Andy Murray enjoys happy returns as he survives Nalbandian dog-fight

Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/tennis/murray-fends-off-nalbandian-challenge-7754289.html) - Murray fends off Nalbandian challenge

cazza99

15-05-2012, 20:26

Sky Sports (http://www1.skysports.com/tennis/news/12110/7759305/)- LTA hits back at criticism

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/olympics/18019898)- London 2012: Doubles will be tennis highlight - Jamie Murray

xenon21

15-05-2012, 23:19

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/9268345/Andy-Murray-celebrates-25th-birthday-by-beating-David-Nalbandian-6-1-4-6-7-5-to-reach-third-round-in-Rome.html): Andy celebrates his birthday beating Nalbandian

cazza99

16-05-2012, 12:55

tennis tv (http://www.tennistv.com/video)- Andy's post Nalbandian match interview - video

Rome site (http://www.internazionalibnlditalia.com/News/Tennis/2012/Interview-Transcripts/Andy-Murray-Tuesday.aspx) - transcript of Andy's post Nalbandian match interview

Q: Andy, what was the key to turning that round from 3-1 down in the 3rd set?
A. Murray I played close to the baseline. It was a strange match in some ways but it was a good level. I thought that the end of the 2nd set and in the 3rd set was very very windy. At the beginning of the match he struggled with his timing and I was just solid really and then end of the second set he started playing better. Where I got broken I was up 30-0 and I didn’t manage to close that game out but I managed to get the break back right away, then a win behind at the beginning of the 3rd was important and then I was a little bit fortunate at the end but I went for it so. Some say you make your own luck.
Q: It looked like a very tactical match, also Nalbandian plays very complex, do you find that very challenging mentally as well as physically?
A. Murray I didn’t necessarily feel it was more tactical than when you’re playing other top players. When he plays well, which he did today in patches today, actually, he is exceptional, he’s a great player. That’s why it was challenging so I had to make adjustments to my game a little bit but so did he. He’s a smart player, he can play all the shots and, he plays drop shots and he volleys well, he lobs, yeah, he’s a very tough guy to play.
Q: On court it looked like you were both talking to the referee, as though you had a problem. Was it a physical problem?
A. Murray Well I’ve had a problem with my back the last few weeks and that is the first match I’ve played…so I was taking a break and it was fairly physical towards the end. Because of the wind the court was very dry, and I think what he was complaining about the reflection of the sun off a part of the Stadium; it was annoying but there’s nothing you can do about it.
Q: Andy, were you given a warning about a verbal obscenity? What did the umpire say to you?
A. Murray Nothing. He just gave me a warning.
Q: Can you share with us what you said?
A. Murray No. I mean I swear on court regularly. I try not to, but sometimes you forget where you are, and what’s on you. I know it’s a mistake, but I also understand a lot of what he said from my time in Spain, but because what we say is in English we’re the ones who get the warning. I think what came out of my mouth today was not as bad as the translation of some of the things that he said but, it’s not right, regardless.
Q: Did you find it difficult with the light and the shade out there on the court?
A. Murray I actually found it difficult at the start, I was winning but like you said it was difficult with the shadow half on the court and half off, but it was also very windy. But it was really nice, not very warm, but at the end of the1st set, beginning of the 2nd was actually very windy, but at the end of the match they were actually very good.
Q: I think you said you were working on your second serve quite a lot, did you do that with Ivan and has it helped you?
A. Murray That’s something I’ve been working on this year, but over the last weeks I’ve had a chance to practise it since starting with Ivan. So I’ve focused on it a lot, but I haven’t been doing more of it for the last week or so. In the first set and up until the end of the second I was serving well which was important to get right because he’s a great returner, one of the best returners.
Q: Do you say I’ve got more work to do or do you say I’m satisfied.
A. Murray After the last couple of weeks which have been tough, I feel so happy to win, you know there’s obviously things I need to work on but for instance last week, Roger in the 2nd round or his first match you know he won 6 in the 3rd, and then went on to win the tournament. You know that happens when you haven’t been playing as much and you haven’t hit the ball and you’re messy and not perfect on the court. For me, it’s good to get a win against a tough opponent and to get another match under my belt before Paris.
Q: Do you have anything by the way of celebrations planned?
A. Murray I hope they have something planned back at the hotel, I don’t know yet I haven’t opened my presents, but I hope they’ve got something for me.

cazza99

16-05-2012, 13:05

Sky Sports (http://www.skysports.com/video/inline/0,,12611_7759280,00.html) - Hard fought victory
Sky oncourt interview following Nalbandian (video)

Sky Sports (http://www1.skysports.com/tennis/news/12110/7759230/Perfect-present-for-Murray)- Perfect present for Murray

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/15052012/2/tennis-murray-survives-nalbandian-scare-advance-rome.html) - Tennis-Murray survives Nalbandian scare to advance in Rome

Scotsman (http://www1.skysports.com/tennis/news/12110/7759230/Perfect-present-for-Murray) - Birthday boy Andy Murray battles past David Nalbandian

Daily Record (http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/tennis-news/2012/05/16/rome-masters-andy-murray-celebrates-birthday-with-second-round-win-over-david-nalbandian-86908-23861135/) - Rome Masters: Andy Murray celebrates birthday with second round win over David Nalbandian

Jan

16-05-2012, 13:17

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPiSMZ0fCRw
Andy's cake and "Happy Birthday"

cazza99

16-05-2012, 13:40

Tennis Space (http://www.thetennisspace.com/opinion/becker-exclusive-ive-been-impressed-by-lendl/)- Becker exclusive: I've been impressed by Lendl

Tennis Space (http://www.thetennisspace.com/opinion/whos-hot-and-whos-not-10/) - Who's hot and who's not

Alis

16-05-2012, 13:58

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPiSMZ0fCRw
Andy's cake and "Happy Birthday"

At the end of that clip Andy looks to be really struggling with his back - believe me I recognise the signs! Really hope he's O.K. for the rest of this week.

lynne

16-05-2012, 15:27

At the end of that clip Andy looks to be really struggling with his back - believe me I recognise the signs! Really hope he's O.K. for the rest of this week.

Strange you should say that as I thought the same yesterday when Andy was walking back to his chair, he was walking differently to his usual stance, but thought maybe it was just my eyes, just hope he will be ok, we will see!!!:)

karanga

17-05-2012, 09:07

Roger Federer has suggested his younger and more excitable rivals need to calm down to fight off his surge back towards the top of the rankings.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-2145444/Roger-Federer-tells-young-rivals-calm-down.html#ixzz1v7GLmXDl

:shocked:

Fina

17-05-2012, 11:19

Thanks karanga. Typical Mail article!

This article is about the current British Tennis enquiry. But its accompanied with that great care-free picture of Andy - taken a few years ago, it's true - but definitely worth seeing again. :) http://www.thetennisspace.com/opinion/british-tennis-discussed-in-parliament-for-the-wrong-reasons/

cazza99

17-05-2012, 20:19

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18109728)- Andy Murray loses to Richard Gasquet at Italian Open

Mirror (http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/tennis/thanks-mum-judy-murray-tweets-837532) - Thanks mum! Judy Murray tweets childhood pic of her tennis playing sons Andy and Jamie

Press Association (http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5hWZS6AVAZLdMoNHSvCCsvf4RMFwA?docId=N01757813 37272577842A) - Murray beaten in Rome

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/may/17/andy-murray-richard-gasquet-rome-masters?newsfeed=true) - Andy Murray suffers surprise defeat by Richard Gasquet at Rome Masters

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/andymurray/9272988/Andy-Murray-beaten-by-Richard-Gasquet-in-Rome-Masters.html)- Andy Murray beaten by Richard Gasquet in Rome Masters

Sky Sports (http://www1.skysports.com/tennis/news/12110/7762654/Murray-runs-out-of-Gas)- Murray runs out of Gas

Sky Sports (http://www1.skysports.com/tennis/news/12110/7762932/Injury-worry-for-Murray)- Injury worry for Murray

cazza99

18-05-2012, 16:42

TennisTV (http://www.tennistv.com/video) - Andy's post Gasquet match interview
This can be found if you click on interviews on the video page

Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/tennis/murray-laid-low-by-back-injury-and-needs-rest-before-paris-7763882.html) - Murray laid low by back injury and needs rest before Paris

Sky Sports (http://www.skysports.com/tv_show/story/0,,19875_7763708,00.html) - Fight fan Murray

Sun (http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/news/4324382/Ciao-Andy-Im-off-to-Hampden.html)- Ciao Andy, I’m off to Hampden. Hibee Judy snubs son to see big game

cazza99

18-05-2012, 18:45

Yahoo (http://sports.yahoo.com/news/venus-williams-andy-murray-two-players-battling-london-171000681--oly.html) - Venus Williams, Andy Murray Two Players Battling for London Olympics

LC the fan

18-05-2012, 20:09

Poor Andy looked quite despondent in that presser. Reckon the back injury is worse than he is prepared to tell anyone.
Speedy recovery Andy - wishing you and that back well soon

SamP

18-05-2012, 20:16

YouTube (http://youtu.be/UNW9iAuvTVU) - Ringside Sky Sports: Andy Murray on Boxing

40-15

18-05-2012, 22:59

cheers SamP - i really wanted to see that - and missed it
thanks for posting the youtube link - brilliant!!

SamP

19-05-2012, 11:43

cazza99

19-05-2012, 12:01

ESPN (http://espn.go.com/olympics/story/_/id/7934264/wimbledon-bathed-color-olympics) - Wimbledon to be colorful for Games

Daily Record (http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/tennis-news/2012/05/19/pete-sampras-tips-andy-murray-to-break-his-major-duck-86908-23865123/) - Pete Sampras tips Andy Murray to break his major duck

10sballs.com (http://www.10sballs.com/2012/05/18/andy-murray-is-getting-ready-for-french-open/) - Andy Murray is Getting Ready for French Open

Herald Scotland (http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/tennis/murray-shows-commitment-by-missing-hibs-big-day.17637535)- Murray shows commitment by missing Hibs' big day

HoopGirl

19-05-2012, 16:08

As a general view to reporters, does anyone else agree that reporters who have been pro Murray since forever, are starting to get a little less enthused and tired of him? Aka Harman, Mike Dickson etc.

Harman has always reported him very fairly I think - that fairness does include rebukes when needed.

At the moment think Harman feels he is off course in a few ways.

Yesterday he mentioned his behaviour, today he said that Lendl should be at each match like the other players coach's are.

He doesn't mention his back. Not sure what that means.

Fina

19-05-2012, 16:51

Harman has always reported him very fairly I think - that fairness does include rebukes when needed.

At the moment think Harman feels he is off course in a few ways.

Yesterday he mentioned his behaviour, today he said that Lendl should be at each match like the other players coach's are.

He doesn't mention his back. Not sure what that means.

HoopGirl, I think there must be different Harman articles. In my paper copy of The Times:

Yesterday he mentioned his back - how during the match it had given "rise to the thought that he is not 100 per cent physically. The signs were of a man not comfortable and with three grand-slam tournaments and the Olympics over the next four months, these are disconcerting times."
He also mentioned his behaviour in passing; but about Lendl he says he had "....chosen to attend the first two clay events of the year but passed on this one.Whether they can come up with a strategy, or Lendl can find the right words to inspire his charge, time will tell..."

Today's article is just about the Nadal/Ferrer match-up.

I agree, he's usually quite fair in his reporting - And no, I didn't see any difference to how he usually comments: "Murray may be just toying with us. He has done it before, then come out and played supremely. Even he admits though, that he is not in the form of a year ago...."

HoopGirl

20-05-2012, 11:52

[QUOTE=Fina;64809]HoopGirl, I think there must be different Harman articles. In my paper copy of The Times:

Yesterday he mentioned his back - how during the match it had given "rise to the thought that he is not 100 per cent physically. The signs were of a man not comfortable and with three grand-slam tournaments and the Olympics over the next four months, these are disconcerting times."
He also mentioned his behaviour in passing; but about Lendl he says he had "....chosen to attend the first two clay events of the year but passed on this one.Whether they can come up with a strategy, or Lendl can find the right words to inspire his charge, time will tell..."

Yes there are many different articles by Harman - I did read that one and most of the others he writes. From my perspective I am more surprised that Harman has consistently written of andys behaviour on court rather than his back. Whilst he has mentioned his back it is with less frequency than his form and on court demeanour. I can only guess that Neil thinks he has a bigger issue than his back.

Fina

20-05-2012, 13:21

^^ I mentioned it because I didn't get the sense that he thought it was a bigger issue - for he just wrote one sentence about his on-court behaviour in the article I quoted from straight after the match.

But as you say, he'll be writing lots of articles with different slants. He has plenty to choose from!

Alis

20-05-2012, 15:07

I venture to say that Andy's on court demeanour comes as a result of his injury. Peter Fleming was just saying the same in commentary. He felt that in the Gasquet match Andy wasn't frustrated with his game but with his movement because he knew that no matter how well he was hitting the ball his back wouldn't let him move around the court as he needed to. His comment was that Andy is in a 'horrible place' at the moment with the most important part of the season coming up. Such a shame!

Mickey

20-05-2012, 16:02

506
picture from twitter

The magic ingredient has arrived in Paris. Andy's dogs and Kim. Between them they will help Andy to relax and have some normal life off the court. They were not impressed with the Eiffel tower, preferred the french pigeons! Thought that being allowed into restaurants great and made them like Paris more.

507
picture from twitter

RoastLamb

20-05-2012, 16:23

Such cute dogs!

Linda

20-05-2012, 16:31

How cute. Maybe I should take Dantie to Paris :)

cazza99

20-05-2012, 21:16

Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/tennis/wozniacki-is-happy-to-keep-it-in-the-family-7768762.html) - Wozniacki is happy to keep it in the family

As for her passive game style, Piotr said Caroline was more of a big hitter in practice. "Ask Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic," he said. "They've practised with her sometimes and said, 'What is this? Is this a woman?' Caroline is ready [to play this way], but this is only practice."

Piotr thinks she can learn from Murray and Djokovic. "Andy Murray's tennis is close to Caroline's, but Andy is playing counterattacking tennis better and better," Piotr said. "We're looking to play the same way. He is a good example.

cazza99

21-05-2012, 17:55

Daily Herald (http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20120520/business/705209931/) - Smaller sports firms rely on informal endorsements to compete at Olympics

Olympic tennis hopeful Andy Murray also regularly uses the company’s gels and asked the Windsor, England-based company for a supply before the Australian Open in January.

cazza99

22-05-2012, 09:37

Bleacher (http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1187843-10-most-obscure-tennis-record-holders) - 10 Most Obscure Tennis Record Holders

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18153191) - Lleyton Hewitt and James Ward handed wildcards for Queen's Club

Tennis Space (http://www.thetennisspace.com/off-court/playing-the-moldovans-at-tennis/) - Playing the Moldovans at Tennis

cazza99

22-05-2012, 09:53

Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-2147201/World-Tennis-Golf-star-Rory-McIlroy-clued-new-sport.html)- Baroness deserves credit for speaking out... but was not quite on the money

Ivan Lendl is back with Andy Murray this week, but en route to Paris he played an exhibition match at the women’s Prague Open, the first time the Florida-based coach has played any kind of match in his homeland for 22 years. Judging by Rome, there is lots to do with Murray ahead of Roland Garros.

RoastLamb

22-05-2012, 21:31

Tom Tebbut's first Paris blog. (http://www.lovemeansnothing.ca/blog/gettin-it-done-in-paris)Some interesting tidbits (but be warned, a lot of Canuck content).

RoastLamb

22-05-2012, 23:29

Ooh OUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Tennis.com gives their Rome report (http://blogs.tennis.com/tennisworld/2012/05/around-the-world-may-21.html)with some harsh things to say about oor Andy.

Andy Murray has really struggled ever since he lost the Miami Masters final to Djokovic and left the American shores. He hasn't made a semfinal since then, losing to Tomas Berdych (Monte Carlo), Milos Raonic (Barcelona), and Richard Gasquet (Rome). That wouldn't be enough to earn a thumbs down in and of itself; every pro hits mediocre times now and then. It was the way Murray lost to Gasquet that was so irritating and. . . amateurish.

We all know that Murray gets into funks, screams at his box, beats on himself. But one of the main reasons that former No. 1 and Hall of Famer Ivan Lendl decided to sign on as Murray's coach was to help the world No. 4 develop a greater degree of self-control. And that wasn't merely because Lendl, a hard case himself, wanted Murray to become a more pleasant citizen of the tennis world. Lendl hoped to convince Murray that he needs to show his opponents a tough, professional, preferably inscrutable face. You might even say he wanted to play the father figure who convinced the gifted Murray to grow up. Could it be that Lendl has been wasting his time?

Given the nature of the game, a player is full control of only a few things, the most obvious of which is his serve. But he also can control himself, and the way that the scowling, potty-mouthed Murray has failed to throttle his sour moods and reactions only adds to the growing narrative that he doesn't deserve to be spoken of as part of a Big Four. Maybe this show ought to be called Three and a Half Men.

It's a shame, because Murray is a really compelling player and a very decent, down-to-earth guy.

Mickey

23-05-2012, 07:08

What about the way Nole behaved, swearing and smashing rackets. We seem to have one rule for him and another for Andy. Didn't think Andy was too bad , he was in pain and couldn't move and serve as he wanted, who wouldn't be frustrated. I'm sure Lendl tells him to ignore all the comments, and get on with his job.

Madeline

23-05-2012, 07:57

Ah, but Nole was swearing in Serbian. That's allowed, you see. :shrug:

cazza99

23-05-2012, 22:57

Bleacher (http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1192156-french-open-2012-elite-stars-cruising-for-early-round-exits)- French Open 2012: Andy Murray, Other Elites May Struggle on Clay

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/andymurray/9285527/Boris-Becker-urges-Andy-Murray-to-pull-out-of-French-Open-rather-than-risk-serious-injury.html)- Boris Becker urges Andy Murray to pull out of French Open rather than risk serious injury

BBC (Heather Watson & Laura Robson win French Open qualifiers) - Heather Watson & Laura Robson win French Open qualifiers

RoastLamb

23-05-2012, 23:30

Tom Tebbutt's second Paris blog. (http://www.lovemeansnothing.ca/blog/roaming-roland-on-day-two)

cazza99

24-05-2012, 12:40

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18192457)- Heather Watson within one match of French Open main draw

Sporting Life (http://www.sportinglife.com/tennis/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=tennis/12/05/21/manual_175422.html&BID=553)- MURRAY MUST IMPROVE - WADE

Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/tennis/james-ward-handed-wild-card-for-queens-tournament-7777898.html)- James Ward handed wild card for Queen's tournament

Press Association (http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5izv9SJoZftFTywVcJwaXWAgx4Xvw?docId=N02982013 37844638139A) - Becker has doubts over Murray fitness

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/blogs/mats-wilander/french-open-preview-clay-not-djokovic-100950419.html) - French Open preview: Clay not for Djokovic

harriet

24-05-2012, 16:48

Mickey

24-05-2012, 16:55

Press Association - Becker has doubts over Murray fitness
i agree with becker, andy would do better to take the time now to REST and let his back recover, with help from a phsiotherapist not just a trainer. last thing he needs to do is play 3 rounds, gyp his back some more and then try to TRAIN his way to fitness I would never take any notice of Becker. Andy I is a physiotherapist and part of his team. My reaction to Becker would be I hope Andy does play. There hasn't been a hint from the Murray camp that he is going to withdraw. Andy has a very good team and he and they know how he is and whether he is fit to play, so Becker stuff it.

Fina

24-05-2012, 18:47

In The Times today is an article on Berdych which includes his views on Lendl [fellow Czech] coaching Andy:

"I have thought why did Lendl need to do it, he has done so much already in his career and to be taking this kind of work when the borderline [between success and failure] is so thin." Berdych said, "It could be you are OK, you are a hero who made Murray into a grand-slam winner, but if it is not like that, I don't use the word 'destroy', but it may harm all the results you have done in the past." The fascination for Berdych is how Lendl could make the decisive change - " because everyone these days is 100 per cent professional, they have coaches, trainers, there's not really a single thing you can add or do better. This is a real challenge for sure."
He continues to say he thinks his own best tennis will be on the grass at Wimbledon....

I so hope that Andy will bring his A-game the next time they meet. Fingers crossed.

HoopGirl

24-05-2012, 18:51

Harman on twitter says in response to a tweet that andy needs to improve some strokes but believe in himself more than he currently does.

Mickey

24-05-2012, 18:58

Harman on twitter says in response to a tweet that andy needs to improve some strokes but believe in himself more than he currently does.
Don't know what this means, it doesn't make sense!

Mickey

24-05-2012, 19:02

Sallydaisy

24-05-2012, 19:09

Harman on twitter says in response to a tweet that andy needs to improve some strokes but believe in himself more than he currently does.

Don't know what this means, it doesn't make sense!
There isn't much space on twitter so it's likely Harman left out a comma or two which could have helped.

I read it as this:
"andy needs to improve some strokes" - which is a pretty straightforward comment
"believe in himself more than he currently does." Andy's self belief seems currently low but Harman thinks there's plenty for him to be confident about and he needs to believe in himself a lot more!

cazza99

24-05-2012, 19:10

Tennis Space (http://www.thetennisspace.com/how-to/how-to-recover-with-ice-baths/)- How to recover with ice baths

Sallydaisy

24-05-2012, 19:11

This sounds like sour grapes to me, it sounds as if Berdych would have liked to have had Lendl as his coach. I really do think that Berdych is a nasty piece of goods, not to be trusted on or off the court.

Berdych certainly has a quirky sense of humour.
Earlier today in Nice he beat Berlocq and posted a video of "Don't Cry For Me Argentina" on his FB.
;)
It's deleted now .........

Alis

24-05-2012, 19:55

Berdych certainly has a quirky sense of humour.
Earlier today in Nice he beat Berlocq and posted a video of "Don't Cry For Me Argentina" on his FB.
;)
It's deleted now .........

I wouldn't say that was 'quirky' - just bad taste.

RoastLamb

24-05-2012, 20:51

Tom Tebbutt's third Paris blog. (http://www.lovemeansnothing.ca/blog/une-belle-journee-a-roland-garros) A bit about Rafa practising, Roger wearing a t'shirt with his own face on it (barf) and some other Canadian stuff inc. Milos practising with Floppy.

cazza99

24-05-2012, 21:06

Guardian (http://aggbot.com/Sport-News/article/16923497) - Fit Andy Murray sends message to Boris Becker over French Open

Jonathan Overend ‏@5livetennis

About to join @neilharmantimes for a preview of @rolandgarros #tennis live on BBC Radio 5 Live at 930pm

I missed it, but I guess it may be on iplayer.

cazza99

24-05-2012, 21:39

usta (http://www.usta.com/Pro-Tennis/Grand-Slams/French-Open/baker_to_make_grand_slam_return_at_french_open/) - Baker to make Grand Slam return at French Open
I wonder if he will upset the pickems.

ljs

24-05-2012, 22:09

some of the adidas fashions for RG ... Andy is in here
http://www.tennisgrandstand.com/archives/13990

Fina

25-05-2012, 09:22

The relationship is under so much scrutiny, but it's good to read some positive comments from Borg in today's Times:

"I thnk Lendl has so much to give, how physically and mentally strong he was on the court, and will bring a lot of positive things to Murray. He has so much knowledge. Murray doesn't realise what kind of coach he has and what he can achieve with this guy. I think he will understand that when he starts to win grand slams, which I think he will do."

:thumbup: Only positive vibes.

Alis

25-05-2012, 09:42

some of the adidas fashions for RG ... Andy is in here
http://www.tennisgrandstand.com/archives/13990

Forgive me for being picky but why is Nando listed before Andy?

Linda

25-05-2012, 10:35

some of the adidas fashions for RG ... Andy is in here
http://www.tennisgrandstand.com/archives/13990

I like the way Nando models the shirt - by taking it off! :rolling: :lol:

cazza99

25-05-2012, 18:17

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18192457)- French Open 2012: Heather Watson qualifies for main draw

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/)- Murray to face Ito in first round

Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/tennis/im-short-of-match-practice-for-french-open-admits-andy-murray-7786081.html)- I'm short of match practice for French Open, admits Andy Murray

ATP site (http://www.atpworldtour.com/Tennis/Media/Videos/2012/Uncovered/Episode-21/ATP-Uncovered-S4-E21-Team-Behind-TV-Cameras.aspx?utm_source=ATPMailing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=ATP%20World%20Tour%20Insider%20#21-%20May%2024%202012%20%284%29) - Outside The LInes
video of the TV crew

This is London (http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/sport/other-sports/novak-djokovic-and-andy-murray-have-hands-full-in-bid-to-deny-nadal-a-magnificent-seven-7788560.html) - Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray have hands full in bid to deny Nadal a magnificent seven

david1610

25-05-2012, 18:30

Andy live on five live at th emoment....

cazza99

25-05-2012, 18:37

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/frenchopen/9289779/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murray-faces-Japans-Tatsuma-Ito-in-opener-and-could-meet-Rafa-Nadal-in-semi-finals.html) - French Open 2012: Andy Murray faces Japan's Tatsuma Ito in opener and could meet Rafa Nadal in semi-

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/may/25/andy-murray-french-open-draw) - Andy Murray draws Tatsuma Ito in French Open

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/frenchopen/9291131/French-Open-2012-Heather-Watson-into-main-event-but-Laura-Robson-bows-out.html) - French Open 2012: Heather Watson into main event but Laura Robson bows out

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18210174)- French Open 2012: Baltacha up for Stosur challenge in Paris

ljs

25-05-2012, 18:50

Forgive me for being picky but why is Nando listed before Andy?

have no idea Alis , probably cause Nando appeals to the masses :lol: ( no offence Linda ) :lol:

Linda

25-05-2012, 18:56

Not sure why I'm being brought into this discussion :confused:

ljs

25-05-2012, 19:00

I like the way Nando models the shirt - by taking it off! :rolling: :lol:

isnt this you ?? :lol:

cazza99

25-05-2012, 19:04

si.com (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/tennis/news/20120525/french-open-mens-seed-report/index.html) - French Open men's seed report

si.com (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/tennis/news/20120525/french-open-women/) - French Open women's seed report

cazza99

25-05-2012, 19:12

CNN (http://edition.cnn.com/video/?iid=article_sidebar#/video/sports/2012/05/24/open-court-brian-baker-comeback-french.cnn) - Brian Bakers grand slam comeback (video)

cazza99

25-05-2012, 19:47

imgacadamies (http://blog.imgacademies.com/2012/05/25/nick-bollettieri-breaks-down-the-top-men-at-the-french-open/) - Nick Bollettieri breaks down the top men at the French Open

Andy Murray

Ranking: #4
Height: 6’3”
Weight: 185 lbs.
Country: Great Britain

It’s not easy living in Great Britain and being the hopeful to win a Grand Slam. There is no question about his athletic ability, movement, and his return of serve. The new addition of Ivan Lendl (coach) was great in the beginning. This relationship started out with a bang and a ball of fire! But the flames are only a flicker, especially over the last thee clay court tournaments.

Let’s share the facts
Review the top three players in the world and then add another dozen hanging around, and you tell me about his chances of winning a Grand Slam. Being born in the era of talent takes the wind out of you. Andy must come out with much more fire power and accept the clear facts that he cannot reach the quarters or semi-finals if stands 8 to 10 feet behind the baseline.

cazza99

26-05-2012, 11:24

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/scotland/18215612) -French Open: Andy Murray refuses to look beyond Tatsuma Ito
short video interview

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/jonathanoverend/2012/05/lets_be_optimistic_yet_realist.html) - Let's be optimistic yet realistic
Jonahtan Overend's blog

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/frenchopen/9291052/Ivan-Lendl-brings-out-the-fun-side-of-Andy-Murray.html) - Ivan Lendl brings out the fun side of Andy Murray

Daily Record (http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/tennis-news/2012/05/26/andy-murray-prays-french-open-won-t-bite-after-breaking-tooth-in-paris-last-year-86908-23873903/) - Andy Murray prays French Open won't bite after breaking tooth in Paris last year

Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/tennis/murray-draws-on-last-years-heroics-to-find-parisian-style-7789269.html) - Murray draws on last year's heroics to find Parisian style

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/frenchopen/9290814/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murray-buoyed-by-Roland-Garros-build-up.html) - French Open 2012: Andy Murray buoyed by Roland Garros build-up

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/may/25/french-open-andy-murray-sunny-mood?newsfeed=true) - French Open: Andy Murray in sunny mood before true battles begin

Scottish Sun (http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/sport/4339085/Murrays-ready-to-bite-back-in-Paris.html) - Murray’s ready to bite back in Paris

AFP (http://sports.yahoo.com/news/fit-again-murray-backs-nadal-keep-winning-162059313--ten.html)- Fit again Murray backs Nadal to keep winning

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/video/25052012/58/murray-worried-lack-prep.html) - Video: Murray "not worried" about lack of prep

RoastLamb

26-05-2012, 13:20

The next installment of Tom Tebbutt's Paris blog. (http://www.lovemeansnothing.ca/blog/d-day-at-roland-garros)

cazza99

27-05-2012, 09:34

Tennis Space (http://www.thetennisspace.com/off-court/baltacha-how-i-cope-with-my-liver-condition/) - Elena Baltacha: how I cope with my liver condition

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/frenchopen/9292445/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murray-dismissess-fitness-talk.html) - French Open 2012: Andy Murray dismissess fitness talk

Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-2150306/FRENCH-OPEN-2012-Andy-Murray-says-indifferent-clay-form-problem.html) - Murray happy with Lendl relationship and says clay issues down to back pain

Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-2150482/FRENCH-OPEN-2012-Andy-Murray-Murray-seeks-home-help.html) - Murray seeks home help in search for first Grand Slam title

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/may/26/andy-murray-french-open-boris-becker?newsfeed=true)- Andy Murray tells Boris Becker to back off over French Open

Bleacher (http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1197600-andy-murray-to-win-his-quarter-2012-french-open-preview)- French Open 2012 Preview: Andy Murray to Win His Quarter

Herald Scotland (http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/tennis/paris-match.17702315)- Paris match

But this year, Murray even branched out a little further with the addition of his dogs, Maggie and Rusty, who made their first trip to France, doggie passports and all. Sharp-eyed shoppers on the Champs Elysees last week might have spotted the world's No 4 trying to restrain a couple of Border Terriers who were going a little crazy.

"They went down the Champs Elysees quite a few times, which was a little bit emotional," Murray laughed as he relaxed in the luxurious surroundings of the Paris Country Club, backing on to the Saint-Cloud racecourse. "There were a lot of people there and a lot of smaller dogs as well. They're not the friendliest when they're on the leads, so it's probably a good thing they're going home now.

Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/motor-racing/murray-begins-dogged-hunt-for-glory-7791394.html) - Murray begins dogged hunt for glory

Press Association (http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5g0tqapdaZ7Dw5VKA3iG7LheQniJQ?docId=N03459513 38049223997A)- Murray happy with Lendl relationship

However, Murray believes the pair are spending enough time together and is confident he has prepared in the best way for the French Open, a tournament Lendl won three times.

"We obviously spent the week before the Australian Open together, the Australian Open, and I went over and trained for 10 days in Miami before Dubai," said Murray.

"And then since Indian Wells, I got the back injury, but the plan was we would have spent every single week on the clay-court stretch together, bar Rome, and then we were going to be together the week before the French Open, Queen's, the week before Queen's, Wimbledon.

"So we're going to spend a lot of time together. I think it's worked well. I think the thing that probably affected the way I was feeling, or the way I was playing, more than anything was having a back injury, rather than Ivan being at a tournament or not.

Daily Record (http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/tennis-news/2012/05/27/french-open-andy-murray-slams-boris-becker-and-says-he-s-sick-of-injury-rumours-86908-23875525/)- French Open: Andy Murray slams Boris Becker and says he's sick of injury rumours

cazza99

27-05-2012, 11:28

Tennis Space (http://www.thetennisspace.com/top-10/top-10-occasions-that-french-crowds-turned-nasty/)- Top 10 occasions that French crowds turned nasty

Andy Murray plays to win. If a player is unfortunate enough to become injured during a match, should the opponent also lower his level to give them a chance? Yes, according to the French crowd present at the 2011 Monte Carlo Masters match between Murray and Gilles Simon. When the Frenchman twisted his ankle, Murray took advantage of this and continually hit drop shots which Simon could not reach due to his restricted movement. Cue a barracking more familiar 400-odd miles north in Paris. “I wasn’t bothered at all, I did what I had to do,” said the British No 1.

Andy Murray in Monte Carlo… Again. Andy Murray faced Nikolay Davydenko in Monte Carlo in 2009. The umpire climbed down from his chair to check a mark, and showed Murray which one it was. Murray misunderstood the umpire and thought he had called the ball ‘in’ causing Murray to, in a state of disbelief, shout at the top of his voice: “No way! That ball was out!” As with any sign of a rebellion from a player, his reaction was met with jeers from the crowd. The ball was out and Murray won the point. Unlike the crowd, Davydenko saw the funny side.

Tennis Space (http://www.thetennisspace.com/opinion/oddballs-and-oddities-19/) - Oddballs and Oddities
by Alex Wilis

Tennis Space (http://www.thetennisspace.com/review/where-to-eat-and-drink-during-the-french-open/)- Where to eat and drink during the French Open

Tennis Space (http://www.thetennisspace.com/opinion/mens-betting-preview-for-the-french-open/)- Men's betting preview of the French Open

super8

27-05-2012, 15:26

The Strong Survive Match Point:

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/26/sports/tennis/26iht-srfofitness26.html?_r=1&ref=tennis

cazza99

27-05-2012, 21:21

ITV (http://www.itv.com/frenchopen/news/video-murray-happy-with-preparation/) - Andy Murray raring to go at Roland Garros
video interview

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18227273) - French Open quotes of the day

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18226054)- French Open 2012: Laura Robson into main draw as first reserve

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/frenchopen/9292445/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murray-dismisses-fitness-talk.html)- French Open 2012: Andy Murray dismisses fitness talk

ESPN (http://www.espnstar.com/tennis/news/detail/item807651/Murray-anticipates-fourth-for-Djokovic/) - Murray anticipates fourth for Djokovic

Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-2150650/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murray-hails-Novak-Djokovic.html?ito=feeds-newsxml) - Murray hails Djokovic as world No 1 aims for fourth consecutive grand slam

Deadline (http://www.deadlinenews.co.uk/2012/05/27/tennis-ace-andy-could-net-win-if-he-banishes-mum-judy-from-court/)- Tennis ace Andy “could net win if he banishes mum Judy from court”

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/video/26052012/58/tipsy-time-fasten-seat-belts.html)- Video: Tipsy Time: Fasten your seat belts!

cazza99

28-05-2012, 18:53

Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-2151153/French-Open-2011-Andy-Murray-faces-Tatsuma-Ito.html?ito=feeds-newsxml)- Murray warned to expect tough test against Ito in Roland Garros opener

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18244000) - French Open: Andy Murray ready for Tatsuma Ito in Paris

ESPN (http://www.espnstar.com/tennis/french-open/news/detail/item808064/Ito-excited-for-Murray-match-up/)- Ito excited for Murray match-up

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18236410)- French Open: Laura Robson loses to Anabel Medina Garrigues

TennisWorld (http://www.tennisworldusa.org/The-back-problems-forced-Andy-Murray-to-cortisone-articolo4306.html) - Murray Gets Cortisone Injections For Back

As reported by British journalist Barry Flatman, Andy Murray getting cortisone injections to try and alleviate back pain which has troubled him since Miami.
Use of cortisone is monitered by the sports drug agency WADA, and it is only allowed under certain circumstances.

RoastLamb

28-05-2012, 21:51

Now we know what's been wrong with Mardy Fish. (http://www.usatoday.com/sports/tennis/story/2012-05-28/mardy-fish-heart/55244236/1) I had the exact same thing and the exact same procedure to get rid of it too.

RoastLamb

28-05-2012, 22:40

Tom Tebbutt's latest blog from Paris. (http://www.lovemeansnothing.ca/blog/frank-the-good-news-and-the-bad) I had no idea that Frank Dancevic just got married...to a Serb...and that they now live not in Niagara Falls but Belgrade! :shocked:

cazza99

29-05-2012, 09:20

Independent - (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/tennis/andy-murray-prepared-for-tatsuma-ito-at-the-french-open-7799838.html)Andy Murray prepared for Tatsuma Ito at the French Open

Linda

29-05-2012, 19:35

Pseudofed has a blog (http://pseudofedblog.wordpress.com/)! :cheer:

RoastLamb

29-05-2012, 19:37

Pseudofed has a blog (http://pseudofedblog.wordpress.com/)! :cheer:

How awesome is that??? :lol:

cazza99

29-05-2012, 19:57

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18256920)- French Open: Andy Murray beats Tatsuma Ito in round one

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18250920) - French Open: Heather Watson wins but Anne Keothavong bows out

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/may/29/andy-murray-tatsuma-ito-french-open?newsfeed=true) - Andy Murray beats Tatsuma Ito in French Open first round

Evening Standard (http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/sport/other-sports/its-a-worry-for-andy-murray-after-ball-tampering-gives-roger-federer-a-problem-7800063.html)- It’s a worry for Andy Murray after ball tampering gives Roger Federer a problem

Bleacher (http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1200288-andy-murray-why-2012-will-be-the-brits-year-at-french-open) - French Open 2012: Why This Will Be Andy Murray's Year

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/frenchopen/9298286/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murray-defeats-Tatsuma-Ito-in-straight-sets-at-Roland-Garros-to-progress-to-second-round.html) - French Open 2012: Andy Murray defeats Tatsuma Ito in straight sets at Roland Garros to progress to second round

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/may/29/french-open-heather-watson-second-round) - French Open 2012: Heather Watson reaches second round at Roland Garros

ITV (http://www.itv.com/frenchopen/features/exclusive-watson-all-smiles-after-vesnina-win/) - Exclusive: Watson all smiles after First Round victory (video)

Jan

29-05-2012, 20:05

Pseudofed has a blog (http://pseudofedblog.wordpress.com/)! :cheer:

Hilarious!!

cazza99

29-05-2012, 20:06

Neil Harman ‏@NeilHarmanTimes

@NeilHarmanTimes @rolandgarros @5livetennis @christophclarey Live in a couple of minutes on Five Live

cazza99

29-05-2012, 20:13

Herald (http://www.heraldscotland.com/comment/columnists/why-i-believe-family-ties-strengthen-murrays-game.17721167)- Why I believe family ties strengthen Murray's game

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18257929)- Murray praises 'good start' after win over Ito
audio interview

Jan

29-05-2012, 20:16

cazza99

29-05-2012, 20:30

Tennis Space (http://www.thetennisspace.com/on-court/notes-from-roland-garros-day-three/)- Notes from Roland Garros - day
by Alex Willis

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18254679)- French Open quotes of the day

SamP

29-05-2012, 20:41

YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=koDW_nyJBfM) - Andy Murray on Tennis, Olympics and Boxing (sportsvibe)

The interviewer is a bit of a prat.

RoastLamb

30-05-2012, 02:32

Tom Tebbut's Tuesday blog from Paris. (http://www.lovemeansnothing.ca/blog/a-day-sans-canadians)

cazza99

30-05-2012, 09:04

Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/tennis/meat-and-drink-for-murray-who-squashes-ito-7800911.html)- Meat and drink for Murray who squashes Ito

3D focus (http://www.3dfocus.co.uk/3d-news-2/3d-broadcasting/exclusive-wimbledon-in-3d-but-not-on-the-bbc/8593) - EXCLUSIVE – Wimbledon in 3D but not on the BBC

Sky Sports (http://www.skynews.com.au/sport/article.aspx?id=755685&vId=) - Tomic eyes French Open clash with Murray

ESPN Star (http://www.espnstar.com/tennis/french-open/news/detail/item808551/Murray-content-with-Ito-win/) - Murray looks to build on Ito win

Scottish Sun (http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/sport/4345599/Andy-Murray-is-through-to-French-Open-second-round.html) - Zest it yet to come- Andy a-peels after getting juices flowing against Tatsuma

cazza99

30-05-2012, 09:31

itv (Murray eases past Ito)- Murray eases past Ito

no interview up yet though.

LC the fan

30-05-2012, 10:28

YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=koDW_nyJBfM) - Andy Murray on Tennis, Olympics and Boxing (sportsvibe)

The interviewer is a bit of a prat.

Obviously taken a few weeks ago because his hair was still lovely and curly. But he looked - and sounded - so delicious

cazza99

30-05-2012, 15:33

Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/tennis/murray-looks-to-lendl-to-turn-him-into-a-grand-slam-champion-7804530.html ) - Murray looks to Lendl to turn him into a grand slam champion

Evening Standard (http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/sport/other-sports/lendls-small-things-make-major-impact-on-andy-murray-7804344.html) - Lendl’s ‘small things’ make Major impact on Andy Murray

Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/tennis/murray-looks-to-lendl-to-turn-him-into-a-grand-slam-champion-7804530.html)- Murray looks to Lendl to turn him into a grand slam champion

Daily Record (http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/tennis-news/2012/05/30/french-open-andy-murray-puts-first-round-victory-down-to-old-socks-86908-23879131/)- French Open: Andy Murray puts first-round victory down to old socks

Herald (http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/tennis/murray-comfortable-in-his-socks-as-ito-is-dispatched.17736963)- Murray comfortable in his socks as Ito is dispatched . . .

Press Association (http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5iem3FIkw67MEzKphstr-F_E4Bauw?docId=N0054821338387366316A) - Lendl works on fine-tuning Murray

SamP

30-05-2012, 18:05

YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FvmgW7T_al0) - 1st Round Press Conference

The comments at the bottom are pretty funny, one guy wondering if he's just a few days from suicide. Thinking about those comments with the first few seconds of this video is pretty hilarious.

I find his presser disinterest endearing :laugh:

cazza99

30-05-2012, 19:13

Ubitennis (http://www.ubitennis.com/english/sport/tennis/2012/05/29/720775-andy_murray_2012.shtml)- Transcipt of Andy's post match interview after 1st round win

Q. How difficult is it to play somebody like that who is a bit streaky, hits big winners but then also makes mistakes?

ANDY MURRAY: Not really. I mean, if you concentrate on your side of the court and don't give up too many free points yourself, then it's fine.

You know, if you're making mistakes and playing sort of a patchy match yourself, then they can become difficult. They can be very up and down, but I didn't do that today.

Q. Customary question about your back.

ANDY MURRAY: My back is fine, but just gotta keep getting better each day and make sure I do all the right things so that it feels as best as possible for the tournament.

Q. Does that mean you have to do more of your rehab stuff between matches because of it?

ANDY MURRAY: Same as always. Same stuff that I always do. Just be professional and do all the right warmups and right recovery stuff after matches. That's it. Nothing different.

Q. You always seem to play your first matches very late, sort of the last possible day. Do you think that's a disadvantage as the tournament goes on?

ANDY MURRAY: I think probably if you play a long match in the first round it probably wouldn't be ideal, but, no you know, each day, I think I play every second day, so that helps. You've got a bit of a routine.

But, I mean, you'd rather work, you know. If you start on Sunday and play through to the other Sunday, you're playing, what, seven matches in 14, 15 days, and, you know, I'll be playing seven in 13.

Q. A little bit away from tennis today, everyone talking about Rafa's color of his shirt. We were told that it wasn't pink. I think it was called in the end scarlet. Roger was putting a black sock on and a white sock on in practice to decide what he was going to wear. Did you have any say in what kit you have? Do you have an interest in that kind of thing?

ANDY MURRAY: I don't think as much as some of the other guys do. But, yeah, I've had this kit for the whole of the clay court season. So, I mean, I prefer to get one kit and then stick with it for a little while, and they like changing every single week.

But, yeah, I can't even remember what Rafa's shirt looked like today. I didn't really see much of his match.

Q. Neil Harman said it was a bit uninteresting. Do you think he's sort of a fashion icon you should listen to?

ANDY MURRAY: My outfit was?

Q. Yeah.

ANDY MURRAY: Yeah, is he in here? I guess he's not.

Q. He's having a half day.

ANDY MURRAY: So I can be really, really rude about him, then. (Laughter.)

Some of the shirts that he comes to work in has been very dodgy over the years, so I'm not going to listen to what he's got to say on fashion, that's for sure.

pabbers

30-05-2012, 20:14

cazza99

30-05-2012, 21:36

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18273765)- French Open: Andy Murray aware of Jarkko Nieminen threat

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/may/30/andy-murray-jarkko-nieminen?newsfeed=true) - French Open 2012: Andy Murray relishes rematch with Jarkko Nieminen

KnightOwl

31-05-2012, 16:04

Summary of Andy's win from the official RG website:

Roland Garros (http://www.rolandgarros.com/en_FR/news/articles/2012-05-31/201205311338466075698.html) - Heroic Murray overcomes painful back injury to win

Plus a quote from their daily News Summary:

Hero of the day has to be Andy Murray, so hampered by a new back injury – intriguingly unrelated to his existing back injury, or so he insisted in his post-match press conference – that he could barely move in his opening games against Jarkko Nieminen. But the Scot dug deep to carve out an improbable win 1-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-2. The next test of Murray’s assorted injuries will come against the world no.50, Colombian Santiago Giraldo, who helpfully – and comprehensively - beat the no.25 seed Bernard Tomic 6-4, 6-1, 6-3.

SamP

31-05-2012, 16:42

New York Times (http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/01/sports/tennis/01iht-murray01.html?_r=1&ref=global) - Murray Fights Through The Pain to Advance

“It’s a completely different thing to what I had beforehand,” Murray said of his back. “If it was the same thing, then, yeah, I would be really, really concerned about Wimbledon and obviously the Olympics.”

Do you believe him?

MurrayAOne

31-05-2012, 17:11

ljs

31-05-2012, 17:15

yes I believe him , might be related but not the initial back injury, and is fixable

cazza99

31-05-2012, 17:25

If you have a back injury, then it is quite possible that Andy is having to use his back differently/use different muscles to compensate for the original injury - this could potentially trigger a different problem as a secondary to the initial injury. This is what my osteopath once indicated to me when I got a lower back problem after a neck problem.

I'll search for the newspaper reports soon.

Madeline

31-05-2012, 18:36

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18273765 - I gather Jonathan Overend was a bit less complimentary earlier than he is in the comment at the side of the main article.

cazza99

31-05-2012, 18:53

RG site (http://www.rolandgarros.com/en_FR/multimedia/2012-05-31/0137a3522250000003b9.html) - Andy's post match press interview

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18273765) - French Open: Andy Murray wins despite injury concerns

ITV site (http://www.itv.com/frenchopen/features/murray-explains-back-problems-against-nieminen/)- Murray: I don't know how I got through
oncourt interview after beating Nieminen

ITV (http://www.itv.com/frenchopen/news/murray-fights-through-pain-barrier-for-win/) - Murray fights through pain barrier for victory
includes video highlights of match

Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-2152619/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murray-beats-Jarkko-Nieminen-injury-scare.html) - Murray recovers from injury scare to book spot in French Open third round
lots of piccies including one of Kim looking really tense

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/31052012/2/tennis-murray-battles-despite-problem.html)- Tennis-Murray battles through despite back problem

Sports Review (http://www.thesportreview.com/tsr/2012/05/andy-murray-twitter-french-open-comeback/) - Andy Murray is unappreciated: Twitter reacts to Scot’s comeback

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/may/31/french-open-andy-murray-back-injury?newsfeed=true) - French Open 2012: Andy Murray told to pull out over back injury

Scottish Daily Record (http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/tennis-news/2012/05/31/french-open-andy-murray-survives-back-injury-scare-to-book-place-in-third-round-86908-23880527/) - French Open: Andy Murray survives back injury scare to book place in third round

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/frenchopen/9302734/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murray-battles-back-from-a-set-down-and-a-back-injury-to-defeat-Jarkko-Nieminen.html)- French Open 2012: Andy Murray battles back from a set down and a back injury to defeat Jarkko Nieminen

cazza99

31-05-2012, 19:03

There are lots of Eurosport videos on here - http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/tennis/video/?p=1

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/video/29052012/58/tipsy-time-new-haircut-janko.html)- Video: Tipsy Time: New haircut for Janko

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/video/30052012/58/tipsy-time-janko-pedicure.html) - Video: Tipsy time: Janko has a pedicure

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/video/30052012/58/funny-moments-roland-garros.html) - Video: Funny moments from Roland Garros

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/video/31052012/58/murray-quit.html) - Video: Murray: I almost quit
Eurosport post match interview

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/video/31052012/58/murray-overcomes-injury-win.html) - Video: Murray overcomes injury to win

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/video/31052012/58/injured-murray-struggles-serve.html)- Video: Injured Murray struggles to serve

RoastLamb

31-05-2012, 19:39

Apologies if this has already been posted but I loved this (from tennis.com) (http://blogs.tennis.com/tennisworld/2012/05/tk-1.html)

Not to be outdone as a fashion icon by that Spanish clothes horse Nadal, Andy Murray (who took out Tatsuma Ito in straight sets) balked when he was informed that his one of his numerous Boswells in the British press, the estimable Neil Harman, had pronounced Nadal's shirt "uninteresting." Presumably, that was a tweet, for Harman is a regular Tweetin' fool.

Murray asked if Harman was in the room. Informed that the correspondent for London's Times was absent, Murray said:

"So I can be really, really rude about him (Neil), then . . . Some of the shirts that he comes to work in have been very dodgy over the years, so I'm not going to listen to what he's got to say on fashion, that's for sure."

Since things were getting kind of personal, but in a good way, Murray went on to admit that he played only in "old" socks. He says his feet slip in his shoes a lot, so he prefers old ones, which are softer and somehow give him more secure purchase. Of course, that can be a problem during clay events, at which the socks take a terrible beating, color-wise, but Murray revealed that he'd just done his own laundry, back at his hotel, a few days earlier. When it came to socks, he was loaded for bear.

How old are those socks he plays in, someone wondered?

"Have no idea. Probably—like I'll wear new socks like just to walk around in, and the old ones to play matches in. I mean, they could be, I don't know, two, three months old. Don't know. No idea."

It's difficult not to like Andy Murray.

cazza99

31-05-2012, 19:46

You can credit good old Petchey for the comments on clothes in Andy's press interview. On ITV4 Petch said the he thought a lot of journos were trying to ask questions about Andy's dip in the second set and his back, so he thought he would get the subject changed.

SamP

31-05-2012, 20:32

Yes. He's not stupid.

OK, I was just posing the question. :)

MurrayAOne

31-05-2012, 20:46

OK, I was just posing the question. :)

Ah yes I know! Wasn't being facetious. I really did mean hopefully he has more sense than to play on at risk.:)

lesleyf

31-05-2012, 21:11

Absolutely right Cazza. It's natures way of protecting ourselves

If you have a back injury, then it is quite possible that Andy is having to use his back differently/use different muscles to compensate for the original injury - this could potentially trigger a different problem as a secondary to the initial injury. This is what my osteopath once indicated to me when I got a lower back problem after a neck problem.

I'll search for the newspaper reports soon.

cazza99

31-05-2012, 21:16

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/jonathanoverend/2012/05/murray_brilliant_lucky_and_sti.html)- Murray brilliant, lucky and still in with a chance

Hours earlier, in an apartment just off the Champs-Elysees, Murray rose to a grey morning with a muscle in spasm in the lower left side of his back.

It wasn't too bad in the morning, practising on Court Philippe Chatrier at 9am, ("not great, but not terrible") but the real pain hit during his warm-up behind the scenes at 10.25am.

He found himself on an exercise bike saying to his team "I can't believe this is happening". He talked about quitting there and then.

Physio Andy Ireland, one of the best in the business, assured him the muscle spasm was unconnected to the back issues he's been occasionally suffering from this year, so the decision was made to play.

And as Ivan Ljubicic, the recently retired world number three, told me later in the day, chances were that it was only going to improve as the match went on. The decision to play and the decision to keep playing, Ljubicic thinks, was absolutely correct.

"Back spasm is something that hurts, something that prevents you from giving your best, but it's also the kind of injury that only gets better," he said. "I'm sure in the next round he's going to feel a lot better, so the big scare was today."

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18285326) - French Open: Injury nearly made me quit - Andy Murray
audio

BBC Scotland (http://aggbot.com/Sport-News/article/16973263) - Murray surprised to finish match
video interview

Fina

31-05-2012, 21:39

Have to admit to not being impressed to see Rafa taking a leaf out of Federer's book by having number 6 on his shoes [for his 6 wins at RG] http://sports.yahoo.com/photos/rafael-nadal-spains-shoes-displaying-photo-172616670.html. Will be looking out for the blazer and gold bag next...

Give me the story about Andy's 'old socks' - [here on the previous page] - any day.

Linda

31-05-2012, 22:12

If he was taking a leaf out of Federer's books, he's have the '7' ones printed already - and I'm sure he hasn't.

Although it's Nike that produces all this stuff and gives it to them to wear.

cazza99

31-05-2012, 22:25

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/may/31/andy-murray-french-open-back) - Andy Murray's back plight could get worse, as more critics climb on it

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/may/31/andy-murray-french-open-recovery) - Andy Murray denies being a 'drama queen' after French Open recovery

Tennis Space (http://www.thetennisspace.com/opinion/should-murray-have-stopped-to-prime-his-body-for-wimbledon/) - Should Murray have quit to prepare for Wimbledon?

Tennis Space (http://www.thetennisspace.com/on-court/notes-from-roland-garros-day-four/)- Notes from Roland Garros - day four

cazza99

31-05-2012, 23:31

Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/tennis/drama-queen-murray-rounds-on-wade-after-gutsy-recovery-7808381.html) - 'Drama queen' Murray rounds on Wade after gutsy recovery

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/andymurray/9303592/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murray-hits-back-at-Virginia-Wade-after-her-claim-that-Scot-acts-like-a-drama-queen.html) - French Open 2012: Andy Murray hits back at Virginia Wade after her claim that Scot acts like 'a drama queen'

Scotsman (http://www.scotsman.com/news/scottish-news/top-stories/just-24-days-to-wimbledon-and-andy-murray-s-in-agony-1-2331561)- Just 24 days to Wimbledon and Andy Murray’s in agony

Sun (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/tennis/4349495/Andy-Murray-slams-legend-Virginia-Wade-for-back-injury-doubts.html)- Don’t call me a drama queen!

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/frenchopen/9303930/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murray-fights-back-from-brink-of-retirement-to-beat-a-bewildered-Jarkko-Nieminen.html)- French Open 2012: Andy Murray fights back from brink of retirement to beat a bewildered Jarkko Nieminen

ChrisMac

01-06-2012, 09:08

The old trout Virginia Wade, how does she know how Andy was feeling, it was obvious to all he was in severe pain. Jim Courier said that in the States he would be praised for his courage to continue, Petchy though, did say it would be the opposite in this country, what is wrong with these people! Hope the old trout has diarrhea for a week!

Alis

01-06-2012, 09:35

Wade should put her brain in gear before coming up with a remark like this - it just makes her look stupid and spiteful. She did the same last year at RG when she suggested that Andy's ankle injury was 'psychosomatic'. Both these injuries have been genuine and painful to any onlooker with a modicum of sense. Maybe she's just worried that she will lose her title as the last Brit to win Wimbledon - I certainly hope she does!

It's so refreshing to hear the French crowd cheering on their players with such enthusiasm - as do the Spanish of course - in fact, in any other country other than Britain a player can rely on their public and press for support. Nadal, Djokovic and Federer would have been hailed as a hero by their media if they had done what Andy did yesterday. What is wrong with us????

Golden Lady

01-06-2012, 10:06

Bardot

01-06-2012, 10:56

Her comments are being reported in every media and undoubtedly Andy is going to be asked further about them at future press conferences. Hopefully the bitter old queen of Wimbledon will retract her comments and put them in context but I think there is such an unpleasant and cynical attitude towards Andy in the media that pundits are almost encouraged to make these statements because that is the underlying feeling. It is so refreshing listening to Leconte, Courier & Mauresmo who have not been exposed to the cynicism and scathing attitude of the British media which makes it the norm to criticise, even ridicule Andy. Hopefully their integrity will remain intact despite mixing with John Inverdale.

Hats off to the Croatian player Amer Delic for his tweet.

So, A. Murray comes back, wins his match... and this is the headline he gets back at home. ‪#brutal‬ ‪#RG12‬

https://twitter.com/AmerDelic/status/208478288782442496/photo/1

Jan

01-06-2012, 11:26

Even though we are used to how the British media treat Andy (generally - there are some exceptions thankfully), I find myself incredulous at some of these comments. Enough said - they are not worthy of reply.

traveller7

01-06-2012, 11:38

petchy knew that the papers would be divided today as they always are with Andy, I guess thats what makes him interesting to watch and read about?!
We believe in him, he is appreciative of our support and thats all that matters really to me.

Sallydaisy

01-06-2012, 11:42

Some snippets from Mark Petchey on twitter (to forum member Xenon21).
I've edited slightly to break up the tweets into sentences proper.

Mark Petchey ‏@markpetchey (https://twitter.com/#!/markpetchey) @xenon21 (https://twitter.com/#!/xenon21)

Andy will never win.

A sport blessed with some of the greatest players of all time but perhaps slightly devoid of a lot of true Characters like we have had previously.

Andy is both yet the scrutiny he suffers is unjust in my eyes.

No ones perfect and I would rather He were as he was than what potentially the future holds for British tennis.

We will be looking in the rear view mirror asking ourselves did We really appreciate his time entertaining us or did we spend too much time looking for the flaws that each of us have in our personalities But are not held under the constant glare of the microscope.

We can all be better and would do well to remember that.
Zainab Walji ‏@xenon21 (https://twitter.com/#!/xenon21)

@markpetchey (https://twitter.com/#!/markpetchey) thank god for you and Jim, the voices of reason yesterday to keep us sane! Any idea how Andy's back is today? Hope he's better
Mark Petchey ‏@markpetchey (https://twitter.com/#!/markpetchey)

@xenon21 (https://twitter.com/#!/xenon21) I know how it was last night but not today yet but I will be honest even if I do know I won't be posting it on here #privacy (https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23privacy)

DaveArneRiise

01-06-2012, 12:03

Thing is though I've seen a lot of players being "drama queens" on court. Including the likes of Nadal and Federer. Gamesmanship is part of the game. If Wade and co want to pretend as if all tennis players our angels and spend their evenings tip toeing their way up into the fields of daffodils then they need to get real. Tennis is a massive psychological sport as well as physical. After all you're all alone on court and gamesmanship occurs, it's part and parcel of the game. I remember Petch and Courier saying that back in the day gamesmanship used to be brutal, it's a shame we don't see more of it to be frank.

JAMES4578

01-06-2012, 12:39

There been some shocking comments from various quarters, commentators should think and consider the implicatons at times like this but that may be too much to ask! I had Eurosport on for a short time last night and could scarsely believe the flow of the conversation. At this point Wade was suggestiing some of Andy's injuries are caused by tension, Greg said the back couldn't possibly be as bad as Andy was making out and Rob Curling's contribution was that Andy certainly lets us know when he's injured! At times Virginia has been supportive as in the Australian semis but we also hear these crass comments. I have mostly been watching ITV's coverage and for the most part it's been a breath of fresh air.

traveller7

01-06-2012, 12:41

I agree,never once did Petchy or Courier suggest he was putting it on or being a drama queen.

RoastLamb

01-06-2012, 12:43

ESPN commies were also very unkind. Esp. Pat Mac. He's such a Fedtard I don't listen to him anymore, prat. He talks smack about Rafa as well.

RoastLamb

01-06-2012, 13:11

Tom Tebbutt's Thursday blog. (http://www.lovemeansnothing.ca/blog/raonic-rolls-at-roland-garros) Some tidbits about past players like Justine, Martina H. and Frew Macmillan plus Milos.

Alis

01-06-2012, 13:26

I'm definitely off Neil Harman after he said on ITV this morning that Andy is a hypochondriac.

traveller7

01-06-2012, 13:38

I'm definitely off Neil Harman after he said on ITV this morning that Andy is a hypochondriac.

OOhh thats unlike him he normally is such a murray supporter!

Bardot

01-06-2012, 14:02

Harman is a pompous patronising oaf who I imagine bullied his fag at public school. I'm not a fan of Andrew Castle but respect to him for calling out Harman on twitter after he had been unnecessarily cruel and personal about an umpire. Listen to any commentary of Harman on 5Live and he'll give you plenty opportunities to question his believed support for Andy.

Andy has been so successful for so long and with no one else in his wake that it's a case of familiarity breeds contempt as regards British journalists. They have created this caricature of Andy being miserable, monosyllabic, mummy's boy, injury prone, hypochondriac, tempremental....... and believing this is what the majority of their readers want they don't have the imagination or will to break this image.

Fina

01-06-2012, 14:21

Couldn't believe there are so many articles on this issue - http://gulfnews.com/sport/tennis/andy-murray-disappointed-about-drama-queen-jibe-by-virginia-wade-1.1030531

It's horrendous how it's serving as a focus for all the hatahs - and just when we are coming into Andy's home tournament stretch. :sad:

DaveArneRiise

01-06-2012, 15:17

I'm definitely off Neil Harman after he said on ITV this morning that Andy is a hypochondriac.

Stopped reading there. That tactic seems to have served me well with regard to any sort of article or input that muppet is associated with.

LC the fan

01-06-2012, 15:47

I suppose we should all be used to it by now. I dont know how Andy feels but it upsets me so I'm sure it hurts him. As an ex-player from Britiain Virginia Wade should be ashamed of herself, as should Annabel Croft.
Other than Mark Petchey there's few British Commentators who can be relied on as Andy fans - Thank Heaven for him, and for Peter Fleming and Jim Courier.

It amazes me that everybody was so full of admiration for Ivan Lendl but they take no notice of the praise that he heaps on Andy - do they think he has no judgement ?

Ahhh....they all make me want to throw up

cazza99

01-06-2012, 15:50

I'm definitely off Neil Harman after he said on ITV this morning that Andy is a hypochondriac.
Harman is probably getting his own back after the comments on his shirts.

cazza99

01-06-2012, 16:20

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/frenchopen/9305591/French-Open-2012-Virginia-Wade-might-call-Andy-Murray-a-drama-queen-but-she-played-in-a-much-easier-era.html) - French Open 2012: Virginia Wade might call Andy Murray a drama queen but she played in a much easier era
this one is worth a read

Daily Record (http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/tennis-news/2012/05/31/french-open-andy-murray-admits-gran-was-in-tears-last-time-he-faced-jarkko-nieminen-after-meeting-the-queen-86908-23879762/)- French Open: Andy Murray admits his gran was in tears last time he faced Jarkko Nieminen.. after meeting the Queen

Metro (http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/900883-andy-murray-may-be-brave-but-his-back-problem-is-a-worry) - Andy Murray may be brave but his back problem is a worry

Tennis Space (http://www.thetennisspace.com/on-court/notes-from-roland-garros-day-five/)- Notes from Roland Garros - day five
by Alex Willis

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/blogs/tramlines/andy-murray-drama-queen-072500754.html)- Is Andy Murray a ‘drama queen’?

Press Association (http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5io2IVwvBa7QhRGNLuLI8zer77mIw?docId=N00265113 38528549155A)- Murray - I'm not backing out

Scottish Sun (http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/news/4349833/Andy-Murray-Let-me-in-ring-with-Tim-Henman.html)- Andy Murray: Let me in ring with Tim Henman

Murray, 25, from Dunblane, Perthshire, said: “I know Tim Henman has started boxing. I wouldn’t mind having a go at him. Henman versus Murray in the ring would be fun.”

STV (http://sport.stv.tv/world-sport/104420-andy-murray-says-playing-on-at-roland-garros-wont-ruin-his-summer/)- Andy Murray says playing on at Roland Garros won’t ruin his summer

USA Today (http://www.usatoday.com/sports/tennis/story/2012-06-01/tennis-pros-and-twitter/55324968/1)- Twitter's troublesome side resurfaces in tennis

Nina

01-06-2012, 16:20

What's wrong with Wade? She should be 1st to believe in Andy! Come on, that was really disappointed statement by the tennis player who knows Andy till he was child!

pippadaisy

01-06-2012, 16:25

Poor Andy can,t do right for doing wrong can he:confused:
I think the British commentators, press former players has beens or never have beens are shocking
in the way they talk about Andy and I hope he doesn't pay any attention to any of them and treats the comments with the contempt they deserve
Feel the itv4 coverage has been great and the comentators make good chit chat as opposed to the normal
drivel we listen to from the beeb.
Keep going Andy Follow your instincts and your dreams all us true fans are 100% behind you
whatever your decisions. :clap::yahoo::clap::yahoo::swingin::worship:

traveller7

01-06-2012, 16:40

Keep going Andy Follow your instincts and your dreams all us true fans are 100% behind you
whatever your decisions. :clap::yahoo::clap::yahoo::swingin::worship:

My sentiments exactly

Alis

01-06-2012, 17:38

Wouldn't it be absolutely amazing if Andy defied all the odds to come through and win next weekend - oh how I would love that!!! .............. of course, all the naysayers would then say 'we told you there was nothing wrong with his back'!

traveller7

01-06-2012, 17:59

I would love it if that happened! But with Nadal in his half its gonna be tough

cazza99

01-06-2012, 18:12

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18298156) - French Open 2012: Andy Murray to face Santiago Giraldo

Andy Murray came through practice unscathed on Friday as he prepared for his French Open third-round match against Santiago Giraldo on Saturday.

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18294295) - Andy Murray's back injury not serious - Ivan Ljubicic
audio interview with Ljubicic

cazza99

01-06-2012, 19:20

SkySports (http://www1.skysports.com/tennis/news/12110/7791060/)- Murray - No backing down

cazza99

01-06-2012, 22:16

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/jun/01/andy-murray-french-open) - Andy Murray gains resolve from his back pain at the French Open

LindyDRed

01-06-2012, 22:26

Look at Wade's face at 43 seconds. :grrr:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtK4l9DBtZY&

-J-

01-06-2012, 22:54

Linda

02-06-2012, 08:11

You were cheated. I read a report on the betting odds last weekend and apparently most were quoting Andy at 40-1.

Sallydaisy

02-06-2012, 08:50

Changes at IMG ..... read free in the Times online today.

Neil Harman ‏@NeilHarmanTimes (https://twitter.com/#!/NeilHarmanTimes) For 48 hours, today and tomorrow, The Times is coming from behind paywall* in celebration of The Queen's Diamond Jubilee. Read me for free!

IMG loses The Fed from its client list and it has always had a soft spot for Mr Murray http://thetim.es/KTFKrY (http://t.co/QVtW6LZ6)

* but apparently you still have to register (but not pay anything).

Alis

02-06-2012, 11:35

ME to i have £20 @ 20/1 :rolling:

Why didn't I think of that - might just go and have a look at the odds now!

RoastLamb

02-06-2012, 11:39

Neil Harman's articles are always published in my own Globe and Mail here in Canada.

Alis

02-06-2012, 11:44

Andy now 50-1 to win.

-J-

02-06-2012, 12:01

Andy now 50-1 to win.most betting sites history a free bet when you join' stick in a fiver they match it Andy wins you get 500 back worth a little flutter ?
I put my bet on months ago first time I ever bet on Andy just had feeling :rolling:

DaveArneRiise

02-06-2012, 12:02

Neil Harman's articles are always published in my own Globe and Mail here in Canada.

Sorry to hear that.

cazza99

02-06-2012, 19:59

ITV (http://www.itv.com/frenchopen/features/exclusive-murray-talks-to-itv-after-third-round-win/)- Post match interview (video)
A transcript can be found on the match thread. http://www.andymurrayfanforum.com/forums/showthread.php?1068-ROLAND-GARROS-R3-Andy-sends-Santiago-packing-6-3-6-4-6-4&p=68252#post68252

Steven ‏@GBtennis

RG: Muzz has not only reached R4+ at the last 4 French Opens - he has actually reached R4+ at 15/16 slams since that RG R3 exit in 2008 :-)

Sky Sports (http://aggbot.com/Tennis-News/article/16987309)- Murray on the mend

Roland Garros (http://www.rolandgarros.com/en_FR/multimedia/2012-05-31/0137a2286b78000003a5.html)- A chat with Andy Murray (video)
this is post Nieminen - missed it earlier

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18298156) - Andy Murray beats Santiago Giraldo in French Open

BBC Scotland (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/scotland/18307945) - A matter of time for Andy Murray - Mats Wilander

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/frenchopen/9307651/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murray-defeats-Santiago-Giraldo-to-advance-into-fourth-round-at-Roland-Garros.html) - French Open 2012: Andy Murray defeats Santiago Giraldo to advance into fourth round at Roland Garros

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/jun/02/andy-murray-santiago-giraldo-french-open?newsfeed=true)- Andy Murray eases his way past Santiago Giraldo at the French Open

Fox Sports (http://www.foxnews.com/sports/2012/06/02/murray-tops-giraldo-in-3rd-round-french-open965201/)- Murray tops Giraldo in 3rd round of French Open

ESPN (http://www.espnstar.com/tennis/french-open/news/detail/item810197/Murray-in-easy-win-over-Giraldo/) - Murray in easy win over Giraldo

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/02062012/58/french-open-problems-murray-easy-win.html) - French Open - No back problems for Murray in easy win

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/video/02062012/58/murray-admits-feeling-better.html)- Video: Murray admits he's feeling better
post match presser

ESPN (http://www.espn.co.uk/tennis/sport/story/153577.html?CMP=OTC-RSS) - Majestic Murray back to his best in Paris

ESPN (http://www.espn.co.uk/tennis/sport/story/153540.html)- Why Aga needs to take a leaf out of Murray's book

Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/tennis/paul-newman-murray-must-learn-advantage-of-keeping-aches-and-pains-private-7811749.html)- Paul Newman: Murray must learn advantage of keeping aches and pains private

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/video/02062012/58/watts-special-roland-garros.html)- Video: WATTS special from Roland Garros

Fina

02-06-2012, 20:21

Some interesting links -enjoyed particularly Andy's post-match presser. :thanks: cazza

Linda

02-06-2012, 20:27

Sallydaisy

02-06-2012, 20:35

Couldn't really hear anything he said in the post match presser. Wish he could look less down, though. But I suppose it's difficult to look cheery when you're in a roomful of people who've been slagging you off.
That was something Inverdale asked him and Andy gave a good answer referring to the number of interviews the tennis players end up having to give through the year and the stuff about being misjudged over 'injuries'.

SamP

02-06-2012, 20:58

Second half of the Eurosport presser interview is full of interesting stuff.

cazza99

02-06-2012, 21:01

Sports Mole (http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/tennis/french-open/news/murray-puts-pressure-on-gasquet_29496.html) - Andy Murray puts pressure on Richard Gasquet

cazza99

03-06-2012, 11:57

Its nice to see british juniors making headline BBC tennis news

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18314315) - French Open 2012: Kyle Edmund beats Daniel Mansur in Paris

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18305630)- French Open 2012: Wilander urges Murray to be proactive on court

Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/tennis/giraldo-feels-the-full-force-of-murray-backlash-7813452.html) - Giraldo feels the full force of Murray backlash

Scotsman (http://www.scotsman.com/sport/tennis/french-open-andy-murray-acting-like-a-winner-1-2335804) - French Open: Andy Murray acting like a winner

Daily Record (http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/2012/06/03/tennis-ace-andy-murray-wants-to-take-on-old-rival-tim-henman-at-boxing-86908-23883478/) - Tennis ace Andy Murray wants to take on old rival Tim Henman.. at boxing

Press Association (http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5i7Kp7GQDOLJmN1iXAgJH7GBkQuFQ?docId=N00610913 38704183451A) - Murray cheered by improving fitness

Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/article-2153836/Nick-Harris-Andy-Murray-pockets-million-just-turning-up.html?ito=feeds-newsxml)- Murray pockets a million and it's just for turning up

Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-2153700/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murray-beats-Santiago-Giraldo-Roland-Garros.html)- No drama for Murray as fourth seed sails past Giraldo and into second week at Roland Garros

But perhaps a better indicator of Gasquet’s condition is that he was sick on court after a prolonged rally in his previous match against Grigor Dimitrov.

‘I saw that, and obviously I’ll try to extend the rallies,’ said Murray, who can call on the wisdom of Ivan Lendl, a man who won this title three times.

Murray revealed the candour of the relationship he has developed in just six months with the man hired to make him a champion. ‘We go to lunch or dinner together a couple of times a week, which I haven’t done in the past with people I have worked with,’ explained Murray.

‘The one thing that’s nice about working with him is that if you have a problem, he’s a very easy person to talk with about it, because he doesn’t get offended. I think nowadays a lot of people get over-sensitive. If he has a problem with me he comes and tells me.
........
‘I don’t want to go into detail over the conversations I have with Ivan, because I don’t want everyone knowing about them. But the one thing I would say about him is that if you say something to him that other people might have been offended by, or got a little uptight over, he doesn’t care.’

In practice today, Lendl will set Murray some drills aimed at creating the downfall of Gasquet. Then, this evening, the two of them, with Dani Vallverdu, who remains a confidant of Murray, will formulate a game-plan. ‘We’ll have good tactics in place,’ promised Murray, who has been painstakingly pieced back together by his phsyiotherapist Andy Ireland, who has worked on manipulating the troubled area of his back, as well as overseeing rigorous stretching exercises.

cazza99

03-06-2012, 12:29

Herald Sun (http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/andy-murrays-danger-match-at-roland-garros/story-e6frf9if-1226381923096)- Andy Murray's danger match at Roland Garros

Gasquet was reluctant to predict he would win.

"I'll have to play a big match, but I have the crowd, and I have to give everything to have no regrets," he said.

Scotsman - (http://www.scotsman.com/sport/tennis/french-open-tough-week-awaits-for-andy-murray-if-he-can-get-past-richard-gasquet-1-2335733) French Open: Tough week awaits for Andy Murray if he can get past Richard Gasquet

ESPN (http://espn.go.com/tennis/french12/story/_/id/8000847/french-open-serena-willams-john-isner-our-first-week-award-winners)- The day Gasquet lost his bananas

Linda

03-06-2012, 12:40

Further down the page on that Gasquet one, they quote Virginia Wade as Best Quote :grrr:

cazza99

03-06-2012, 12:44

I think they have removed the quotes now - just looked again and they are not there.

cazza99

03-06-2012, 13:01

Sky Sports (http://www1.skysports.com/tennis/news/12110/7793486/) - Tough test for Murray

RoastLamb

03-06-2012, 13:17

Gasquet was reluctant to predict he would win.

"I'll have to play a big match, but I have the crowd, and I have to give everything to have no regrets," he said.

Je ne regrette rien. Isn't there a song by that name?

KnightOwl

03-06-2012, 13:18

...Murray, who has been painstakingly pieced back together by his phsyiotherapist Andy Ireland...

Nice :big grin:

Sallydaisy

03-06-2012, 13:18

Je ne regrette rien. Isn't there a song by that name?
Edith Piaf.

cazza99

03-06-2012, 13:47

ITV Sport (http://www.itv.com/frenchopen/features/french-flavour-of-french-open/)- The unmistakeably French flavour of the French Open
video

ITV Sport (http://www.itv.com/frenchopen/features/exclusive-murray-talks-to-itv-after-third-round-win/)- Murray delighted with third-round win
video - A 9 minute interview after the Giraldo match, including Andy talking to his idol Fabrice Santoro

ITV Sport (http://www.itv.com/frenchopen/features/andy-murray-insists-he-has-never-exaggerated-injuries-following-criticism-from-virginia-wade/)- Exclusive: Andy Murray insists he has never faked injuries

"Me and [Roger] Federer are the two guys that have called for the trainer the least on the tour, and me and Roger were also the players who have pulled out of the least matches on the tour.

"So for someone to suggest that I make a meal of injuries when I call the trainer out one of the least on the whole tour, and withdraw one of the least from matches on the whole tour, I felt like I had to stick up for myself.

cazza99

03-06-2012, 14:17

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/scotland/18316462)- French Open 2012: Andy Murray looks ahead to Richard Gasquet tie
video interview - 2 minutes

After his French Open third-round win over Santiago Giraldo, Andy Murray talks about the treatment he has been receiving on his injured back, the challenge of facing Richard Gasquet and what his future holds once he finishes playing. Interview by BBC Scotland's David McDaid.

davech

03-06-2012, 16:09

ITV Sport (http://www.itv.com/frenchopen/features/exclusive-murray-talks-to-itv-after-third-round-win/)- Murray delighted with third-round win
video - A 9 minute interview after the Giraldo match, including Andy talking to his idol Fabrice Santoro

ITV Sport (http://www.itv.com/frenchopen/features/andy-murray-insists-he-has-never-exaggerated-injuries-following-criticism-from-virginia-wade/)- Exclusive: Andy Murray insists he has never faked injuries

Interesting comparing their transcript with ours. I prefer our "speak up for myself" to itv.com's "stick up for myself".

KnightOwl

03-06-2012, 16:18

Well, I still think that was what he said! ;)

cazza99

03-06-2012, 17:00

It is ITV after all, you can't expect them to get everything right ;)

cazza99

03-06-2012, 21:52

Roland Garros site (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/andymurray/9309754/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murray-will-look-to-make-Richard-Gasquet-fight-till-he-drops-
Press Association [/URL]- Murray braced for Gasquet test

[URL="http://www.rolandgarros.com/en_FR/multimedia/2012-06-02/0137ae095fd800000430.html)- Andy's Giraldo post match presser
(I posted link from Eurosport the other day, but this may be better quality)

Roland Garros site (http://www.rolandgarros.com/en_FR/multimedia/2012-06-02/0137ae6677e000000436.html) - Gasquet post match presser

cazza99

04-06-2012, 09:48

An article about Judy's twittering is on her thread - http://www.andymurrayfanforum.com/forums/showthread.php?92-Judy-Murray&p=68381#post68381

Daily Record (http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/tennis-news/2012/06/04/french-open-ice-cool-andy-murray-looking-to-extend-his-grand-slam-hoodoo-over-richard-gasquet-86908-23885215/) - French Open: Ice-cool Andy Murray looking to extend his Grand Slam hoodoo over Richard Gasquet

Sun (http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/sport/4353756/Local-Gas-freezers-not-big-enough-for-Andy.html) - The ice king

Bleacher (http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1207208-french-open-tennis-murray-prepares-to-walk-the-green-mile) - French Open 2012: Andy Murray Prepares to Walk the Green Mile

Tennis Earth (http://www.tennisearth.com/news/tennisNews/French-Open-2012-Match-Preview-Andy-Murray-vs-Richard-Gasquet-265324.htm) - French Open 2012 Match Preview: Andy Murray vs Richard Gasquet

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/jun/03/french-open-andy-murray-richard-gasquet?newsfeed=true)- French Open 2012: Andy Murray backs himself to beat Richard Gasquet

Orange (http://web.orange.co.uk/article/sports/gasquet_doing_it_for_french_fans) - Gasquet doing it for French fans

The pair have known each other since their junior days when they were part of the same generation as Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, but it was Gasquet who was marked out as the big star.

It is not hard to see why. The 25-year-old's flourish of a one-handed backhand is arguably the most aesthetically pleasing shot in tennis, and his forehand is pretty good too.

Yet Gasquet has gone beyond the fourth round of a grand slam only once, reaching the Wimbledon semi-finals in 2007, and has so far failed to develop the mental strength to go with his talent.

"When I was nine, when I was 16, they said I'm a genius," said the 17th seed ahead of the fourth-round match on Court Philippe Chatrier. "I'm used to that.

"But I need to give everything I have. I need to do my best. That's the most important thing. You want to give your best, and the crowd is supporting you from the beginning until the end.

"That's a beautiful emotion, playing on such a big court and giving everything you have for people."

LC the fan

04-06-2012, 12:46

Was a bit surprised in the BBC interview to hear Andy say he will probably give tennis a total break when his career comes to an end. 'Like my Coach'
I've always thought he would go into coaching kids - proabably with his Mum. I know its a few years hence but it would be a shame to lose him altogether :sad:

Alis

04-06-2012, 13:19

davech

04-06-2012, 13:23

Was a bit surprised in the BBC interview to hear Andy say he will probably give tennis a total break when his career comes to an end. 'Like my Coach'

It's pretty common for people who are in the middle of their career, or near the end of it, to say they never want to do the day job again. It doesn't often last.

KnightOwl

04-06-2012, 15:31

Well, look at Sir Steve Redgrave - after his fourth gold medal in 1996 he said "I've had it. If anyone sees me near a boat they can shoot me". Didn't stop him winning a fifth gold in Sydney 2000 :big grin:

cazza99

04-06-2012, 18:52

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18316074)- Andy Murray beats Richard Gasquet at French Open

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18323085)- French Open 2012: Liam Broady & Kymle Edmund post wins

I'll post more soon, just letting the articles mature a bit

cazza99

04-06-2012, 20:34

ITV (http://www.itv.com/frenchopen/dailyhighlights/day9/andy-murray-v-richard-gasquet/)- Murray ignores boo-boys to finish with aplomb
4 min video of end of match

Scotsman (http://www.scotsman.com/sport/tennis/french-open-tennis-andy-murray-recovers-to-defeat-richard-gasquet-1-2337606) - French Open tennis: Andy Murray recovers to defeat Richard Gasquet

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/jun/04/french-open-andy-murray-richard-gasquet?newsfeed=true)- French Open 2012: Andy Murray fights cat-calls to sink Richard Gasquet

Fox Sports (http://www.foxnews.com/sports/2012/06/04/murray-overcomes-slow-start-for-french-open-win/) - Murray overcomes slow start for French Open win

ESPN (http://www.espn.co.uk/tennis/sport/story/153818.html)- Murray must find another gear against Ferrer

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/frenchopen/9311181/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murray-recovers-from-first-set-scare-to-beat-Richard-Gasquet.html) - French Open 2012: Andy Murray recovers from first-set scare to beat Richard Gasquet

Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/tennis/andy-murray-bounces-back-to-reach-last-eight-of-french-open-7815057.html)- Andy Murray bounces back to reach last eight of French Open

Sky Sports (http://www1.skysports.com/tennis/news/25104/7795495/Murray-serves-up-a-treat) - Murray serves up a treat

Roland Garros site (http://www.rolandgarros.com/en_FR/news/articles/2012-06-04/201206041338833641093.html)- Masterful Murray moves into quarters

ITV (http://www.itv.com/frenchopen/features/murray-relieved-after-hard-earned-win-over-gasquet/)- Murray relieved after hard-fought win over Gasquet
video of post matchinterview

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/04062012/58/french-open-murray-roars-defeat-gasquet.html)- French Open - Murray roars back to defeat Gasquet

cazza99

04-06-2012, 20:38

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/video/04062012/58/murray-blows-gasquet.html) - Video: Murray blows Gasquet away

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/video/04062012/58/murray-wins-point-championship.html) - Video: Murray wins point of the championship

cazza99

04-06-2012, 21:07

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18326533) - French Open quotes of the day

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/04062012/2/tennis-boos-boost-barnstorming-murray.html)- Tennis-Boos boost barnstorming Murray

Sporting Life (http://www.sportinglife.com/tennis/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=tennis/12/06/04/TENNIS_French_Murray_Lead.html&BID=553)- ANDY MURRAY REACHES LAST EIGHT

cazza99

04-06-2012, 22:25

Roland Garros (http://www.rolandgarros.com/en_FR/news/interviews/2012-06-04/201206041338837927695.html)- Transcript of Richard Gasquet interview

Q. Would you say he's like the other three best players? Is he that difficult to play against?
RICHARD GASQUET: He's No. 3, not 4, you know. He's not No. 2. He's not No. 1. I think he's slightly behind them, that's true. But he deserves being in the first top four, and he's one of the best players, that's true. He's really strong, really strong.
He's very difficult to play against, very hard.
Sky Sports (http://www1.skysports.com/tennis/news/12110/7795652/)- Murray - I enjoyed myself

Eurosport - (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/video/04062012/58/murray-fears-ferrer.html) Video: Murray fears Ferrer
Eurosport interview video

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/jun/04/french-open-andy-murray-football?newsfeed=true) - French Open 2012: Andy Murray enjoys 'football match' with Frenchman

Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-2154634/French-Open-2012-Rafa-Nadal-practices-Josh-Ward-Hibbert.html?ito=feeds-newsxml)- Paris Match Zone: Rafa's lesson lifts British starlet Josh after first round exit

Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-2154520/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murray-beats-Richard-Gasquet.html)- Booed on court and heckled... but not even France's favourite could stop Murray

RoastLamb

04-06-2012, 22:38

So is he saying Andy is better than le Fed?

-J-

04-06-2012, 22:38

Roland Garros (http://www.rolandgarros.com/en_FR/news/interviews/2012-06-04/201206041338837927695.html)- Transcript of Richard Gasquet interview
.
think thus shows up the british media agenda andy plays well dismantles gasquet but all they are interested in is trying to get Richard to moan about andy touching his back not once twice or three time but four separate questions about andy "play acting" pathetic

Linda

04-06-2012, 22:43

That's because Gasquet was moaning about it to his team during the match. And then when Andy started winning, Gasquet said, 'Oh, it's not hurting now'.

-J-

04-06-2012, 22:49

That's because Gasquet was moaning about it to his team during the match. And then when Andy started winning, Gasquet said, 'Oh, it's not hurting now'.thats fine , ask him about it don't harangue the guy to get a quote they can use no need to ask the same question 4-5 times

Linda

04-06-2012, 22:53

Well, you know what journos are like. Always wanting to dish the dirt, if they think they can get a big story of some argument between the players then they'll be happy :sad:

-J-

04-06-2012, 22:58

Well, you know what journos are like. Always wanting to dish the dirt, if they think they can get a big story of some argument between the players then they'll be happy :sad:thats exactly my point they make summit out of nothing and if they repeat it often enough it seeps in to the greater subconscious any way Andy won played well and we have a great match to look forward to Wednesday sure we can all agree to that

traveller7

04-06-2012, 23:27

Even the commentators were trying to say there was friction between the players because of it but when Andy was asked about it post match he shrugged it off
something of nothing as per usual

RoastLamb

05-06-2012, 01:37

Love this: (from tennis.com) (http://blogs.tennis.com/thewrap/2012/06/pictures-from-a-cold-island.html)

Andy Murray is fond of boxing and football, and he said earlier this year that he enjoys the stories that his coach, Ivan Lendl, tells him about the scrappy old days of men’s tennis. So it isn’t too surprising that Murray looks comfortable as he walks onto Chatrier today to play France’s Richard Gasquet. Murray is being booed lustily by the French crowd; by the time he puts his racquet bag down, he’s grinning.

The booing continues each time Murray grabs his back, which has been bothering him, and whenever he questions a call. It finally backfires on the French crowd late in the second set, when Murray puts in a fierce extra effort and flips a Gasquet drop shot past him with a forehand. It’s the most aggressively determined—the most undeniable—shot I’ve seen from Murray since the Australian Open semifinals, and it takes him to set point. Gasquet seems to feel that it’s undeniable as well. He double faults on the next point, and wins just three more games. By the end, as Murray pulls the Frenchman up and back with drop shots and lobs, the crowd begins to boo again—at Gasquet. As Murray walks off, he’s cheered loudly. Has he finally found his Grand Slam solution, back pain and boos?

“It felt a bit like a football match,” Murray says. “And I like football.”

cazza99

05-06-2012, 10:55

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/andymurray/9311705/Andy-Murray-relished-spectator-boos-and-hostile-environment-during-last-16-win-over-Richard-Gasquet.html) - Andy Murray relished spectator boos and hostile environment during last 16 win over Richard Gasquet

Metro (http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/901110-andy-murray-overcomes-hostile-crowd-to-beat-richard-gasquet) - Andy Murray overcomes hostile crowd to beat Richard Gasquet

Yahoo (http://ph.omg.yahoo.com/news/tennis-mixed-reviews-twitter-tennis-130140737--spt.html)- Tennis: Mixed reviews for Twitter in tennis

ESPNStar (http://www.espnstar.com/tennis/french-open/news/detail/item811354/Murray-enjoying-time-on-court/) - Murray enjoying time on court

iol (http://www.iol.co.za/sport/tennis/murray-prepares-for-spanish-battle-1.1311959#.T83kDVJ0zjc)- Murray prepares for Spanish battle

Daily Record (http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/2012/06/05/andy-murray-reveals-night-on-the-tiles-with-girlfriend-kim-sears-86908-23886307/) - Andy Murray reveals night on the tiles with girlfriend Kim Sears

This is London (http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/pasportsfeeds/murray-happy-to-play-the-bad-guy-7817670.html) - Murray happy to play the bad guy

Bardot

05-06-2012, 13:51

From twitter, bros chillaxing this morning. ;)

http://p.twimg.com/AunTd6jCMAApFqq.png
http://p.twimg.com/AunS2m2CIAAlNCi.png

cazza99

05-06-2012, 14:03

Sky (http://www1.skysports.com/tennis/news/12110/7796339/)- Murray aware of Ferrer threat

Ferrer has never been past the quarter-finals at Roland Garros, losing to Rafael Nadal in 2005 and Gael Monfils on his last appearance in the last eight four years ago, but he has looked in supreme form this week.

In four matches, the 30-year-old has dropped only 25 games and never more than four in a set.

He said: "I don't know if I'm playing my best tennis, it's difficult to say that, but of course I am in a good moment. I am playing very good this tournament. And also this season. I'm very happy about that."

Reflecting on his past record against Murray, Ferrer added: "Every match is different and I know to beat Andy I need to play my best tennis. He is very, very good on a clay court and all surfaces."

Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-2154865/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murray-end-clay-hoodoo-David-Ferrer.html?ito=feeds-newsxml)- Murray out to end hoodoo against clay specialist Ferrer in last eight

Roland Garros (http://www.rolandgarros.com/en_FR/multimedia/2012-06-04/0137b7912db000000481.html) - David Ferrer press interview (video)

Roland Garros (http://www.rolandgarros.com/en_FR/multimedia/2012-06-04/0137b7912db000000481.html) - Andy's post Gasquet presser (video)

DaveArneRiise

05-06-2012, 20:15

think thus shows up the british media agenda andy plays well dismantles gasquet but all they are interested in is trying to get Richard to moan about andy touching his back not once twice or three time but four separate questions about andy "play acting" pathetic

They really are scumbags. Nothing was said when Nole was screaming like Sharapova against Seppi. Or when Federer didn't even apologise for one of the most lucky mis hits you'll ever see today against Del Potro at a crucial stage at beginning of 5th set.

DaveArneRiise

05-06-2012, 20:20

Thing is most of them are only in a job because of Andy, yet they advance like vultures at any given opportunity to belittle him. So they can make a story.

cazza99

05-06-2012, 21:26

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18332437)- French Open: Andy Murray aims to end David Ferrer clay dominance
includes short BBC video interview

Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-2155026/French-Open-2012-Wayne-Rooney-joins-Andy-Murray-fan-club.html?ito=feeds-newsxml)- Rooney joins Andy's army! Wayne enjoys march to quarters... where Ferrer awaits

10sballs (http://www.10sballs.com/2012/06/05/img-is-trying-to-recruit-andy-murray/)- IMG is Trying to Recruit Andy Murray

cazza99

05-06-2012, 22:25

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/jun/05/french-open-andy-murray-david-ferrer?newsfeed=true)- French Open 2012: Andy Murray faces tough task taming David Ferrer

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/frenchopen/9312018/French-Open-2012-Liam-Broady-into-boys-quarter-finals-after-6-3-6-3-victory-over-Belgiums-Julien-Cagnina.html) - French Open 2012: Liam Broady into boys' quarter-finals after 6-3 6-3 victory over Belgium's Julien Cagnina

si.com (http://tennis.si.com/2012/06/05/roger-federer-french-open-crowd/)- Roger Federer to Paris crowd: Shut up!

Sun (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/tennis/4356196/Andy-Murray-is-out-to-slay-the-Little-Beast-at-Roland-Garros.html)- I’ll slay the Little Beast

cazza99

05-06-2012, 23:14

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/video/05062012/58/hawk-eye-ferrer-massive-challenge-murray.html)- Video: Hawk-Eye: Ferrer a massive challenge for Murray

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/video/05062012/58/tough-matches-beckon-murray-nadal.html) - Video: Tough matches beckon for Murray and Nadal

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/video/05062012/58/ball-boy-takes-tumble.html)- Video: Ball boy takes a tumble

Independent (http://aggbot.com/Sport-News/article/17009360) - Murray has the game to tame the 'Little Beast'

RoastLamb

06-06-2012, 02:10

Tebbutt's overview blog of RG. (http://www.lovemeansnothing.ca/blog/a-view-from-36000-feet)

cazza99

06-06-2012, 12:37

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/andymurray/9312632/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murray-will-need-sublime-strokeplay-to-subdue-David-Ferrers-Spanish-formula.html)- French Open 2012: Andy Murray will need sublime strokeplay to subdue David Ferrer's Spanish formula

sport.co.uk (http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Tennis/76500/Spanish_inquisition_for_Murray_at_French_Open.aspx )- Spanish inquisition for Murray at French Open

Tennis Earth (http://www.tennisearth.com/news/tennisNews/Andy-Murray-vs-David-Ferrer-2012-French-Open-Quarterfinal-Preview-427362.htm) - Andy Murray vs. David Ferrer: 2012 French Open Quarterfinal Preview

Evening Standard (http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/sport/other-sports/andy-murray-given-valuable-lesson-in-how-to-tame-the-beast-7820049.html) - Andy Murray given valuable lesson in how to tame the

Daily Record (http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/tennis-news/2012/06/06/french-open-andy-murray-eager-to-knock-down-ex-brickie-david-ferrer-in-last-eight-at-roland-garros-86908-23887177/) - French Open: Andy Murray eager to knock down ex-brickie David Ferrer in last eight at Roland Garros

ESPN (http://www.espn.co.uk/tennis/sport/story/154074.html)- Murray full of praise for 'killer' Ferrer

Evening Standard (http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/sport/other-sports/david-ferrer-ready-for-tough-andy-murray-french-open-encounter-7819824.html) - David Ferrer ready for tough Andy Murray French Open encounter

Herald Scotland (http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/tennis/little-beast-a-mighty-foe-for-murray.17797627) - Little Beast a mighty foe for Murray

Scottish Sun (http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/news/4356770/Andy-Murray-Best-of-luck-to-Roo-too.html)- Andy Murray: Best of luck to Roo too

Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-2155026/french-Open-2012-Wayne-Rooney-joins-Andy-Murray-fan-club.html)- Rooney joins Andy's army! Wayne enjoys march to quarters... where Ferrer awaits

Tennis Space (http://www.thetennisspace.com/off-court/roland-garros-diary-heavy-balls-and-late-nights/) - Roland Garros diary - late nights and heavy balls

Fina

06-06-2012, 22:41

Just come across Andy's post-match presser: http://freedomtennis.wordpress.com/2012/06/06/andy-murray-june-06-2012/

Able to move on now...

EDIT: Also a video link on the BBC website: http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18348505

cazza99

06-06-2012, 22:54

Roland Garros site (http://www.rolandgarros.com/en_FR/multimedia/2012-06-06/0137c2346e08000004dc.html) - Andy's post match press interview

Roland Garros site (http://www.rolandgarros.com/en_FR/multimedia/2012-06-06/0137c2346e08000004dc.html)- Ferrer's post match press interview

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/jun/06/andy-murray-queens?newsfeed=true) - French Open 2012: Andy Murray noncommittal about playing at Queen's

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/jonathanoverend/2012/06/prophetic_murray_accepts_he_is.html)- Prophetic Murray accepts he is not amongst clay-court elite
Jonathan Overend's blog

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18348505)- Andy Murray satisfied with French Open campaign

Scotsman (http://www.scotsman.com/sport/tennis/mistakes-cost-andy-murray-as-david-ferrer-sets-up-nadal-semi-final-1-2341198) - Mistakes cost Andy Murray as David Ferrer sets up Nadal semi-final

Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/jun/06/french-open-andy-murray?newsfeed=true) - French Open 2012: Andy Murray runs out of steam against David Ferrer

Sports Mole (David Ferrer happy with 'tough' Andy Murray win) - David Ferrer happy with 'tough' Andy Murray win

cazza99

06-06-2012, 23:09

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/frenchopen/9315185/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murrays-search-for-first-grand-slam-title-fizzles-out-in-the-drizzle-against-David-Ferrer.html) - French Open 2012: Andy Murray's search for first grand slam title fizzles out in the drizzle against David Ferrer

Sky Sports (http://www1.skysports.com/tennis/news/12110/7798263/) - Murray: I didn't convert

Roland Garros (http://www.rolandgarros.com/en_FR/news/articles/2012-06-06/201206061339009323108.html) - News & Photos / Articles / Ferrer outlasts Murray to crack the big four

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/06062012/58/french-open-misfiring-murray-falls-ferrer-paris.html) - French Open - Misfiring Murray falls to Ferrer in Paris

Eurosport (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/video/06062012/58/murray-didn-t-execute.html)- Video: Murray: I just didn't execute

DaveArneRiise

06-06-2012, 23:41

I enjoyed Almagro's interview (http://www.rolandgarros.com/en_FR/multimedia/2012-06-06/0137c2346e08000004dc.html)

Amusing his response to the final question. I mean seriously do they hire these journalists from the circus or something? :rolling:

He actually played a blinder but even that is not enough to beat Nadal. The best clay court player EVER.

Fina

07-06-2012, 11:52

I agree with the positive comments re Courier - and from this article, it seems many others do too: http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/tv/news/a385814/itv4s-french-open-coverage-peaks-with-14m.html

I have to say though that I thought Nick Mullins' contribution wasn't up to much. [I think it was Bardot who also mentioned this on the match thread]

Alis

07-06-2012, 12:00

An honest response from Andy as always.

RoastLamb

07-06-2012, 19:24

Jon Wertheim's baguette: (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/tennis/news/20120607/french-open-maria-sharapova/)

Who are your top five best men and woman never to have won a major currently playing.
-- Bob Diepold, Charlotte, N.C.

• Good one. For men I would say: Andy Murray, Tsonga, Tomas Berdych, David Ferrer and, maybe, Robin Soderling (despite his lengthy bout with mono). For women it's obvious: I'd go with Agnieszka Radwanska, Caroline Wozniacki, Marion Bartoli -- now I'm really struggling -- maybe Vera Zvonareva and Jelena Jankovic? Is Dinara Safina still considered active?

Fina

07-06-2012, 22:23

McEnroe's take on Andy in the Guardian - http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/jun/07/andy-murray-john-mcenroe

cazza99

08-06-2012, 14:03

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/frenchopen/9319166/French-Open-2012-Andy-Murray-needs-to-be-mentally-stronger-if-hes-to-break-slam-duck-claims-John-McEnroe.html) - French Open 2012: Andy Murray needs to be mentally stronger if he's to break slam duck, claims John McEnroe

Sun (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/tennis/4360607/Andy-Murray-defends-Ivan-Lendl-partnership.html)- Andy: Lend me a hand now, Ivan

Metro (http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/901422-andrew-castle-andy-murray-can-be-class-on-grass-after-french-open) - Andrew Castle: Andy Murray can be class on grass after French Open

Setanta Sports (http://www.setanta.com/ien/Articles/2012/06/07/Murray-makes-fitness-admission-/gnid-144315/) - Murray makes fitness admission

"I need to get some good physical work in between now and Wimbledon. I need to make sure I am in slightly better shape," Murray said.

"I think that is going to be important for me. I was a little bit out of breath after some of the longer rallies today."

Meanwhile, the Scot also dismissed the possibility of him not playing at Queen's in order to rest his back ahead of Wimbledon.

Murray added: "I haven't even discussed the possibilities (of not playing) with any of the guys who I work with so the plan is to play Queens as it always has been.

"It's my preparation for Wimbledon and it's worked well for me but I will sit down with the guys and discuss what I am going to do over the next two weeks before the tournament starts."

Evening Standard (http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/sport/other-sports/andy-murray-may-sit-out-queens-to-be-fit-for-wimbledon-bid-7826925.html) - Andy Murray may sit out Queen’s to be fit for Wimbledon bid

Eurosport (http://sports.yahoo.com/news/blessing-disguise-andy-murray-avoid-showdown-rafael-nadal-010300074--ten.html) - It’s a Blessing in Disguise for Andy Murray to Avoid Showdown with Rafael Nadal at 2012 French Open: A Fan’s Opinion

Liverpool Echo (http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/tennis/2012/06/08/andy-murray-s-former-trainer-reckons-the-scot-is-getting-close-to-winning-a-grand-slam-100252-31138300/)- Andy Murray’s former trainer reckons the Scot is getting close to winning a Grand Slam

DaveArneRiise

08-06-2012, 21:21

wriggles

09-06-2012, 08:15

Murray makes fitness admission

Im really suprised by this..I thought Andy did so much fitness work anyway..how can it be that he feels unfit! maybe him and Llendl have been working more on technique and shots than fitness.

Linda

09-06-2012, 09:28

He said he was a bit out of breath after some of the long rallies - which, considering what the rallies are like, hardly means he's unfit. You see all the players puffing and panting a bit after long, demanding rallies - especially once the match has gone on a bit. I think he really expects the impossible in terms of fitness.

Fina

09-06-2012, 10:29

LC the fan

09-06-2012, 10:52

Mickey

09-06-2012, 11:21

I sometimes think some of them have run out of things to say about Andy. McEnroe is now doubting what Lendl can offer, and telling Andy to keep his emotions hidden.

??????McEnroe ? telling someone to keep their emotions under control ??????It's sour grapes because he offered a number of times to help Andy, but Andy chose Ivan, a far better choice as will be proved when Andy lifts his 1st GS.

Fina

09-06-2012, 11:26

It's sour grapes because he offered a number of times to help Andy, but Andy chose Ivan, a far better choice as will be proved when Andy lifts his 1st GS.

I thought McEnroe was never seriously in the picture due to his commentating commitments?

Alis

09-06-2012, 11:55

[QUOTE] Murray makes fitness admission [QUOTE]

Im really suprised by this..I thought Andy did so much fitness work anyway..how can it be that he feels unfit! maybe him and Llendl have been working more on technique and shots than fitness.

He possibly hasn't been able to do as much gym work because of his back.

Mickey

09-06-2012, 13:15

I thought McEnroe was never seriously in the picture due to his commentating commitments?McEnroe on a number occasions offered.

RoastLamb

09-06-2012, 15:30

McEnroe on a number occasions offered.

I don't think so. He's never wanted to coach (so far). He's a commentator. He's offered advice that's for sure but I don't think he's ever offered to coach Andy.

Mickey

09-06-2012, 18:06

I don't think so. He's never wanted to coach (so far). He's a commentator. He's offered advice that's for sure but I don't think he's ever offered to coach Andy.I'm not going to argue but I know what I read and heard at the time Andy didn't have a coach. So let's leave it.:halo: Can't really be bothered.

jeannie13

09-06-2012, 18:40

I'm not going to argue but I know what I read and heard at the time Andy didn't have a coach. So let's leave it.:halo: Can't really be bothered.
I heard & read the same as you , Mickey!!!

Linda

09-06-2012, 18:43

I think that he said he could help Andy but couldn't commit full-time. So everyone is right :)

Madeline

09-06-2012, 18:53

We need a "pouring oil on troubled waters" smiley!

RoastLamb

09-06-2012, 20:26

I listen to Johnny Mac all the time on American tv and not once as he said anything about coaching Andy. Nor have any of the other commies asked him about it whereas they always ask Brad and Darren. But he is full of advice and he thinks a lot of him.

cazza99

09-06-2012, 20:34

[QUOTE=wriggles;70750][QUOTE] Murray makes fitness admission

He possibly hasn't been able to do as much gym work because of his back.

That is what I was thinking

I listen to Johnny Mac all the time on American tv and not once as he said anything about coaching Andy. Nor have any of the other commies asked him about it whereas they always ask Brad and Darren. But he is full of advice and he thinks a lot of him.
It was several years ago when he used to mention it - when he was commentating for Wimbledon.

RoastLamb

09-06-2012, 20:41

Several years ago? OK I'll buy that. I thought we were talking more recently.

DaveArneRiise

09-06-2012, 21:15

I sometimes think some of them have run out of things to say about Andy. McEnroe is now doubting what Lendl can offer, and telling Andy to keep his emotions hidden.

??????McEnroe ? telling someone to keep their emotions under control ??????

Anyone with half a brain can see the progress Lendl has done with Andy in the short space they have worked. Someone should remind Mac of Andy's stunning effort against Nole at the AO where he was playing some of the tennis of his life. Controlled aggressive tennis. Very soon we are going to witness the fruits of the partnership. The signs are definitely there though.

-J-

09-06-2012, 21:24

aus semi was a good match from andy but now sure lendll can take much credit for that(not sure he would want any iether) as he hadnt had much time with andy

DaveArneRiise

09-06-2012, 21:27

I'm sure he had some sort of influence. The signs were there to see what Lendl's ideas were too. Vowing to improve Andy's forehand and turn it into more of a weapon.

DaveArneRiise

09-06-2012, 21:32

How someone like Mac can dismiss Lendl already when they have been together for not even a year is just ludicrous though. Andy himself said it would take best part of a year to reap the full benefits of Lendl's coaching. It's either the usual media bandwagon jumping or just a pathetic attempt at fishing from Johnny Mac.

-J-

09-06-2012, 21:33

possibly he did, but cant help thinking had more to do with people looking for signs of change

DaveArneRiise

09-06-2012, 22:13

The changes were pretty evident to see though. Murray took the game to Nole, it was a brutal encounter. Massive contrast to the final the year before where Djokovic dismantled Andy in straight sets. If you think that Lendl didn't have some sort of influence albeit minimal in that then you're mistaken.

Lendl has made no secret of the fact he vows to improve Andy's forehand and turn him into a more aggressive player, which is the recipe for him to win a slam it seems.

And Andy is starting to produce that sort of tennis. Look at how he was peppering that forehand last week in RG....

cazza99

09-06-2012, 22:24

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/18380717)- Andy Murray faces Garcia-Lopez or Mahut at Queen's Club

Mail - (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-2156970/Andy-Roddick-admits-2012-Wimbledon.html) American great Roddick admits 2012 may have to be his last Wimbledon

For most of the past decade, Roddick has been the solitary American in the world's top 10. He is both senior statesman for tennis in the US, and sergeant-at-arms; and Roddick can empathise with the burden of expectation that Andy Murray will carry with him to Wimbledon once more.

'I think Andy handles it great,' said Roddick. 'The guy can play. I think he is the best player that hasn't won a Grand Slam title - ever.

'He's good enough to win one. I've always had to contend with Roger through my career - but Andy's playing with three Rogers now: Federer, Nadal and Novak Djokovic. It's a tough situation, but I think Andy will win a Slam.

'I'm not going to predict when, because then we're dealing in headlines. But he will. He's too good not to; he's beaten all of them, and it's just a matter of getting a break.

'A faster surface will be his best chance. I like Wimbledon, I like the US Open. He can construct points, he can get his chip into play and he gets a little more help on the serve. If he can get a high first serve percentage, that's a step up.'