View Full Version : DUBAI 2012 - FINAL: Andy falls short in the Final, loses to Federer 5'7, 4'6
Hopefully Fed will have a mental dip now, thats a key part of his game thats got weaker over the last few years. Should that happen its probably game on again.
Andy is not focus, he is just hitting the ball back, reminds me of Wardie
Andy's first serve % was 51% in the first set and 36% in this set :sad:
Come on Andy, break back! :swingin:
getinnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn!!!!!
supergran
03-03-2012, 16:27
Let's go Andy!!!
Lovely point for BP, get it Andy! Fightback starts here!
KnightOwl
03-03-2012, 16:28
Great point! Now, let's hope he can use that to fire himself up!!
Sallydaisy
03-03-2012, 16:28
Hahahahahaha .........
I'm not ever giving up on a Murray win until the Umpire says GSM to the other guy!!!
:p
Broken back! Lovaly shot to get it too! :cheer:
diamond gal1
03-03-2012, 16:28
Woo hoo and the boy listened
supergran
03-03-2012, 16:28
Yes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Brilliant.:cheer:
KnightOwl
03-03-2012, 16:28
Wooohooo!! Now we're talking - Andy has turned up :)
at a boy now focus safe hold please
kitkat:boogie:
sophie900607
03-03-2012, 16:29
Andy breaks! I knew he could do it! Come on Andy!
Madeline
03-03-2012, 16:29
409
Sallydaisy
03-03-2012, 16:30
Come on Muzzah!!!
:swingin::swingin::swingin:
notable on that point all andys lobs previous game pinned fed to the base line
Both players playing some 'Sick' tennis right now.
supergran
03-03-2012, 16:31
That b net!!!
diamond gal1
03-03-2012, 16:32
Dont know about "Sick" tennis but I feel right sick just now
It OK to break but you must hold
He's hit the net several times on that backhand dtl :sad:
BP again :sofa: Please hold Andy!
supergran
03-03-2012, 16:33
Dont know about "Sick" tennis but I feel right sick just nowSo do I
Dont know about "Sick" tennis but I feel right sick just nowthink its kid speak for good
now close it out
cmonnnnnnnnnnnn
Sallydaisy
03-03-2012, 16:34
He's hit the net several times on that backhand dtl :sad:
Quite often when Andy's serve isn't working he also misses the BHDL ...
KnightOwl
03-03-2012, 16:34
Good, well saved - now hold!!
supergran
03-03-2012, 16:34
Come onnnnnnnn!!!
It's pretty frustrating to see him letting himself down out there. He's hitting some great stuff but his bread and butter just isn't there today...I mean yet.
one more point cmonnnnnnnn
KnightOwl
03-03-2012, 16:34
And an ace to seal it - good stuff - keep going...!
good lad now take the momentum
cmonnnnnnnnnnnnnn
Phew manages to hold. Double break now Andy, don't let him into the set.
JAMES4578
03-03-2012, 16:35
Phew great work Andy! Fab game to break earlier and maybe he can do it again- come on!
sophie900607
03-03-2012, 16:36
Yes, now after saving a bp, go for a kitkat Andy! Come on!
Break again Andy we are sending positive vibes
supergran
03-03-2012, 16:36
I never watch an Andy match sitting down calmly. I'm always up and down like a fiddler's elbow. Exercise, I suppose.:lol:
diamond gal1
03-03-2012, 16:37
Anyone else got a racing heart ?
KnightOwl
03-03-2012, 16:38
I never watch an Andy match sitting down calmly. I'm always up and down like a fiddler's elbow. Exercise, I suppose.:lol:
That sounds much healthier than my response, which usually involves resorting to alcohol :big grin:
RoastLamb
03-03-2012, 16:38
Anyone else got a racing heart ?
Most definitely. Hugged the hubby when Andy broke back. He was shocked. :lol:
diamond gal1
03-03-2012, 16:38
Ha ha ha ha ha ha, brilliant
supergran
03-03-2012, 16:38
4-4....I'm getting so tense. Come on Andy...you can do it!
sok andy consolidation will do safe hold and see how fed coped serving to stay in the set
cmonnnnnnnnnnn
diamond gal1
03-03-2012, 16:39
Ok peeps here we go, Andy will take this set
supergran
03-03-2012, 16:39
Ouch!!!
Most definitely. Hugged the hubby when Andy broke back. He was shocked. :lol:
he was shocked Andy broke back or that u hugged him ??? lol
KnightOwl
03-03-2012, 16:41
Ouch. Three BPs for Fed :sofa:
RoastLamb
03-03-2012, 16:41
he was shocked Andy broke back or that u hugged him ??? lol
latter.
last chance saloon
cmon andy EVERY POINT
diamond gal1
03-03-2012, 16:42
note to self, keep big gob closed
Fed now serving for the title. :sad: Still believe Andy can break back but he's going to have to step it up big time!
RoastLamb
03-03-2012, 16:42
Strewth!!! :grrr:
KnightOwl
03-03-2012, 16:42
Getting very dangerous now....come on Andy, fight!!
any room behind your sofa Linda?
:crying: :crying: :crying:
sophie900607
03-03-2012, 16:43
Oh Andy, you just give away your serve that easily... :(
COME ON! Now or never! Put pressure on his serve!
Well the Fed will serve for match.
Sallydaisy
03-03-2012, 16:43
Come on Muzzah!!!
:swingin::swingin::swingin:
A Kitkat is needed right now!
supergran
03-03-2012, 16:43
:crying:Don't know wotfo say.
JAMES4578
03-03-2012, 16:44
A bit sloppy there and Fed takes advantage, come on Andy!
any room behind your sofa linda?not with that wagon she is dragging:whistle:
Andy is never going to be the player we want him to be unless his serve becomes less fragile. He can't keep relying on his return game.
KnightOwl
03-03-2012, 16:46
30-30 not over yet...
andy is never going to be the player we want him to be unless his serve becomes less fragile. He can't keep relaying on his return game.dont know about that, but if he did have that i do think he would be ustopable
Still in it
cmonnnnnnnnnnnnn
Not over yet, deuce...:sofa:
KnightOwl
03-03-2012, 16:47
Deuce! C'mon Andy, fight for it...!
Little glimmer
cmonnnnnnnnnn
Sallydaisy
03-03-2012, 16:47
Make him work for it Andy ........
Come on Muzzah!!!
:swingin::swingin::swingin:
:crying: :crying: :crying: :crying: :crying:
RoastLamb
03-03-2012, 16:49
Livestream is cut off. Can't stand it.
Stream just went dead at CP...looking at LS probably for the better. :sad:
Madeline
03-03-2012, 16:49
I feel sick.
But I have to go out shortly, so I had better be sick later.
KnightOwl
03-03-2012, 16:50
Oh well. Disappointed for the lad, but gotta say Fed played better, and Andy didn't quite do enough. At least he beat Nole though, so still positive over all.
Sigh.
48% first serve isn't great
Ah what a shame, a lot of positives in this week though, just a pity he didn't quite reach the same levels tonight. Federer played a blinder though, really good stuff.
Well done for getting into the finals, after the first match I thought you would not make it to the 3rd round. How on earth Is Andy going to win a slam if his serves desert him in crucial time.
Still not a bad week for Andy, no sign of a slump or anything. Masters next and I'm sure he'll do really well there.
diamond gal1
03-03-2012, 16:51
Absolutely gutted, but as pointed out he did beat Nole. See you all next week x
Sallydaisy
03-03-2012, 16:52
Game over - Roger won 7'5, 6'4.
Nae bother - it was a good workout for Andy ahead of Indian Wells.
Tbh I think it probably meant more to him to win over Nole to regain confidence after losing to him in the OZ Final.
Shame he couldn't produce the first serve percentage of yesterday which would have gained him a few more cheap points. Saying that - neither of them did well on the serving front; Andy was at 48% and Roger's was only at 50%.
Federer deffo came out with serious intent to win it and he produced the goods when needed. But Andy kept him at it and came back when Fed didn't expect it so I am not worried going forward.
KnightOwl
03-03-2012, 16:52
Roll on Indian Wells :)
supergran
03-03-2012, 16:52
Well done Andy .....reaching Final was an achievement. Hope he builds on this now.
oh well , glad I have to go out , take my mind off that , hate when Andy loses but its especially hard when its to Fed :(
5 matches in 5 day 3 of which in midday say good weeks work
Andy just didn't play well enough today. No matter - I don't think Andy will be too bothered - he had his chances.
Madeline
03-03-2012, 16:56
Spit. I have just remembered that means Fed has increased his lead over Andy in the rankings.
Tie-break
03-03-2012, 16:57
Disappointed - but a brilliant run to the final. Can't take that away from him. Thought they were even stevens until Andy was broken to go 5-6 in 1st set. But then the 1st serve seemed to go awol. Great to see him fighting until the very end. Well done Andy for the week - should give him some momentum for Indian Wells. Let's hope so.
Gutted for Andy, but he just didn't do enough, but can take a lot of positives from the whole week..more work with Ivan & onwards & upwards I think!!:)
Will not be reading any papers next week or I will feel worse than what I do now & those commies really should be ashamed of themselves they are so into FED it's unbelieveable!!!..........Boooooooooooo!!!!:furiou s:
patmoren
03-03-2012, 16:58
Good week, lots of positives, still needs that little bit more at the crucial moments. You'll get there Andy just keep doing what you are doing.
HoopGirl
03-03-2012, 16:58
Gutted!
Needed to serve like yesterday.
Really wanted him to win!!!
sophie900607
03-03-2012, 16:59
I think Andy wasn't good enough today to win. This have happened and will happen. All in all the week was positive, defeating TB and Nole. And he's much better than he was a year ago. He needs to serve better at these matches.
Looking forward to IW & Miami!
Let's go Andy!
:crying: :crying: :crying: Commiserations to Andy but well done reaching the final and for his defeats of Berdych and Djokovic. :cheer: :cheer: :cheer:
Andy looked tired today but he gave it as always 100%. It's a pity that he couldn't take advantage of the chances he had in the first set.
ONWARDS AND UPWARDS to Indian Wells and Miami which at the end of the day are far more important in the general scheme of things than Dubai.
this time last year the highlight was losing to Baggy in R'dam 1R. This year he beat Nole in straight and a final appearance, rollo on IW & miami virtually zero points to defend
Andy didn't say much. Not sure I want to hear what Fed has to say.
supergran
03-03-2012, 17:11
Not a bad pay cheque
KnightOwl
03-03-2012, 17:12
What in earth is that trophy?? It looks like a cross between a saxophone and a sock :big grin:
supergran
03-03-2012, 17:13
What in earth is that trophy?? It looks like a cross between a saxophone and a sock :big grin::laugh::laugh::laugh:
I think it's a ceremonial knife.
Roger said even less. Andy not too keen on the fireworks going off immediately behind him.
KnightOwl
03-03-2012, 17:14
How come Fed gets a big shiny-boat-trophy and Andy just gets the saxo-sock? Why not just give him a smaller shiny boat?
supergran
03-03-2012, 17:14
Gosh I think I dislike Fed even more....he's ever so slightly smarmier than usual. Or is it me?
Isntit meant to be an arabian dow(sp? Boat thingie)
Gosh I think I dislike Fed even more....he's ever so slightly smarmier than usual. Or is it me?
Me also........didn't even mention Andy!
KnightOwl
03-03-2012, 17:17
Gosh I think I dislike Fed even more....he's ever so slightly smarmier than usual. Or is it me?
Wow, that's quite an achievement!
Isntit meant to be an arabian dow(sp? Boat thingie)
Ah, possibly - dhow I think - but I prefer saxo-sock though :)
It looked as if Andy received a jewel encrusted Ali Baba style dagger, he should've tested the sharpness of the blade on Federer's ego.
Noticeable how Federer didn't acknowledge Andy's presence let alone his performance in the final.
A good week for Andy, much to be delighted with. :)
hfwardhouse
03-03-2012, 17:25
Gutted at the result but what a great week - so much better than this time last year - onwards and upwards :)
JAMES4578
03-03-2012, 17:28
A disappointing result and performance really, though Fed was up for it! Tide seemed to turn once those chances went begging in the first and even when Andy got the break back in the 2nd just he just couldn't maintain the consistency. Of course the court conditions were a factor but Andy serve was a bit of a weakness today and he made too many uncharacteristic errors. Think he also held back a bit too often.
However, obviously it's been a positive week for Murray and certainly a transformation from the previous two years. I'm sure Andy can build on this in the upcoming Masters events which after all are more important, though a win today obviously would have been good!
Neither were too talkative at the ceremony I suppose but should be easier when you are the winner! I know he wasn't specifically asked, but you'd think Fed could have said something about Andy. Shouldn't be too surprised though!
jeannie13
03-03-2012, 17:38
Me also........didn't even mention Andy! I noticed that!! He's getting worse I think. Fed played well but I doubt he'll do so well at the coming Masters where the courts will be slower. He maybe used his influence to make the Dubai court faster!!! :red devil: Sorry that Andy lost, but I'm sure he will be satisfied with what he has achieved this week. I'm certain that he & Ivan will have lots to discuss & evaluate. Very well done Andy!!!:thumbup::cheers:
supergran
03-03-2012, 17:41
He definitely should have mentioned Andy but he was too busy creeping to the Dubai bigwigs and letting them know he spends his free time looking around because he has an apartment there. Pass the sick bag Cyril. Bah humbug!
Spit. I have just remembered that means Fed has increased his lead over Andy in the rankings.
Does he? I thought Fed only picks up 200 points (the difference between being a finalist and a winner), while Andy picks up 300 points. I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong.
I think the week eventually caught up with Andy. Even though it's been a very positive tournament for him, I really hope he gives it a miss next year and stays in the States - either training or playing one or two of the tournaments over there in readiness for IW and Miami. Flying through 9 time zones twice just for a week's tennis seems a bit daft to me no matter how much you're being paid for it!
Passionanda
03-03-2012, 17:55
He definitely should have mentioned Andy but he was too busy creeping to the Dubai bigwigs and letting them know he spends his free time looking around because he has an apartment there. Pass the sick bag Cyril. Bah humbug!
You took the words out of my mouth, Supergran! Smugface lives on......unfortunately!
I think they get treated well like Royalty, they get put up in the Al Burg 7* hotel on an island, I would play too. I'm concerned about Andy maintaining his serves. He keeps saying he has been practicing on his serves, it still seem to come and go for no obvious reason. May be it's nerves. I don't know. The field is going to be stronger next week and hope Ivan is there to keep him in check and give plenty of support.
Sallydaisy
03-03-2012, 18:02
Does he? I thought Fed only picks up 200 points (the difference between being a finalist and a winner), while Andy picks up 300 points. I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong.
Yep, Fed gains 200 points today; he was a Finalist last year so was defending 300 points but the win gives him 500 making a net +200. Andy gains 300 because he was defending 0 from last year. In Monday's Rankings Fed should be on 8435 and Andy on 7450 making a gap of 985 points.
The interesting bit will be in IW and Miami.
Andy defends only 20 points in total (10 from each for going out in the R64 last year).
Roger defends 720 (360 from each for getting to the Semi-Finals).
I think we need Yorkie to come along and do an Arka for the next 2 events ... but it seems that if Andy won both and he beat Fed in the Final of both (by definition the furthest Fed could go) then Andy would leapfrog Roger and regain WR #3.
JAMES4578
03-03-2012, 18:03
I think they get treated well like Royalty, they get put up in the Al Burg 7* hotel on an island, I would play too. I'm concerned about Andy maintaining his serves. He keeps saying he has been practicing on his serves, it still seem to come and go for no obvious reason. May be it's nerves. I don't know. The field is going to be stronger next week and hope Ivan is there to keep him in check and give plenty of support.
Apparently Neil Harman has stated that Ivan won't be at Indian Wells, which is a bit disappointing. However, Sure he will be in there for the Miami Masters.
Ivan's with Andy at Miami, Monte Carlo and Barcelona before the French.
diamond gal1
03-03-2012, 18:11
Why is Ivan not with Andy at Indian Wells, me thinks Andy needed Ivan today
diamond gal1
03-03-2012, 18:13
You know I admire Fed for his tennis but his arrogance really really stick in my throat
Wonder if he has a mirror mirror on the wall whos the greatest of them all :)
jeannie13
03-03-2012, 18:22
You know I admire Fed for his tennis but his arrogance really really stick in my throat
Wonder if he has a mirror mirror on the wall whos the greatest of them all :)
He doesn't need a mirror --He KNOWS he's the greatest of them all.:big grin:
diamond gal1
03-03-2012, 18:26
Lol yes Jeannie 13, in his eyes only x
I'm concerned about Andy maintaining his serves. He keeps saying he has been practicing on his serves, it still seem to come and go for no obvious reason. May be it's nerves. I don't know.
Before the match today, Andy's frst serve percentage for the tournament was 66%. I can't remember him ever having that sort of percentage over 4 matches before and yesterday it was 71%. That shows an enormous improvement. I really think he was just tired today - unfortunate but it happens. If he had to lose to Fed I would rather that it was when he had played badly than when he played well. Mind you if he had played well he wouldn't have lost!
To be honest, I think neither of them were given the opportunity to congratulate each other as they weren't able to make a speech as such, just answer a question which was really "How great is this tournament?"
I don't think the tournament is great actually. The players may get put up in a 5-star hotel and treated like royalty, and get huge appearance fees, so no wonder they vote it their favourite tournament, but when you think of the obvious favouritism towards Fed and Nole with the schedule and the wildcard issue there are some serious doubts. I'm glad that Rafa doesn't play here any more and I'd be very happy if Andy didn't either.
As for today's match, well, Andy didn't come out all guns firing like he did yesterday. He seemed rather nervous to start with and he never got his first serve going. His BHDTL was AWOL as well. Give Fed his due, he played really well, but Andy wasn't at his best like he was in the semi. Congrats to him for progressing further in this tournament than he has before, but it's a little bit worrying that when it comes to a final his nerves get the better of him again. If he always played like he did yesterday then he would beat anyone anywhere. Although of course I realise that nobody is going to be at their best every day.
Mandiemoo
03-03-2012, 18:54
Havent read any other posts, just putting my two-penneth in!
I'm afraid I thought this was in the bag, given Andy's improved serving performance & the way he played yesterday against Djoker so I feel a bit deflated having watch him lose to Federer. His first serve percentage was below 50% today & thats just not going to cut it in a final. The errors seemed to creep in a bit. I loved Andys reaction when he broke Federer but he just couldnt keep that level up. Hopefully he can go forward from a fairly successful week, much better than last year & get the WR3 back before the French.
Apologies to any Federer fans but I'm afraid I have never liked him & like him less after his speech. What a self-centred, slimy big-head.
diamond gal1
03-03-2012, 18:55
Dont apologise he his a horribly arrogant man
diamond gal1
03-03-2012, 19:03
I can never quite work out the relationship if you can call it that between Fed and Andy
dont know if Fed feels inadequate in Andy's company or if its just a personality clash, either way
Fed couldnt lick Andy's boots. The niceness that Fed portrays on TV is very false, at least with
Andy you get what you get. Sorry if that seems harsh but I dont do false folk.
supergran
03-03-2012, 19:10
Well, it seems quite clear that there are many of us on here who don't like Federer.:big grin:
diamond gal1
03-03-2012, 19:11
Lol amen to that
I didn't get to see the match and now I know that Andy lost I don't think I will. But I wasn't feeling 100% confident about Andy's chances today just because Federer is so good on a fast hard court. He often beats Rafa, Nole and Andy in fast conditions and it's where his game is at its best. The slower conditions in Indian Wells and Miami, on the other hand, suit Andy/Rafa/Novak far more than they do Federer.
I'm not too disappointed - Andy can't win them all and defeats against the rest of the top four have to be expected from time to time. What I feel really encouraged about in this tournament are his victories against Berdych and Djokovic - they were very important wins for him.
Yep, Fed gains 200 points today; he was a Finalist last year so was defending 300 points but the win gives him 500 making a net +200. Andy gains 300 because he was defending 0 from last year. In Monday's Rankings Fed should be on 8435 and Andy on 7450 making a gap of 985 points.
That's not quite right. Because the Dubai points came off a week earlier. Fed's current points of 8235 are after taking off his 300 points from Dubai this year. So we need to add all 500 points on, making his points 8735. However is he meant to have a nil-pointer for Tokyo? If so, he can't count his 25 points from Davis Cup so his points will be 8210.
I agree with Andy's points.
Sallydaisy
03-03-2012, 19:47
That's not quite right. Because the Dubai points came off a week earlier. Fed's current points of 8235 are after taking off his 300 points from Dubai this year. So we need to add all 500 points on, making his points 8735. However is he meant to have a nil-pointer for Tokyo? If so, he can't count his 25 points from Davis Cup so his points will be 8210.
I agree with Andy's points.
Thanks Linda, hadn't realised the Dubai points were already off when I did my calculation.
As to Tokyo ... I think Fed has reached a level where he can leave out certain tournaments without penalty (as can Andy Roddick) but does that apply to a Masters or can he exclude 500's? There's been an ATP rule change about counting 250/500's so I'm not sure if that will affect what he counts.
Madeline
03-03-2012, 19:49
Yep, Fed gains 200 points today; he was a Finalist last year so was defending 300 points but the win gives him 500 making a net +200. Andy gains 300 because he was defending 0 from last year. In Monday's Rankings Fed should be on 8435 and Andy on 7450 making a gap of 985 points.
The interesting bit will be in IW and Miami.
Andy defends only 20 points in total (10 from each for going out in the R64 last year).
Roger defends 720 (360 from each for getting to the Semi-Finals).
I think we need Yorkie to come along and do an Arka for the next 2 events ... but it seems that if Andy won both and he beat Fed in the Final of both (by definition the furthest Fed could go) then Andy would leapfrog Roger and regain WR #3.
Sorry, but I don't think you are right. The difference at the start of this week was 1085, and Fed's 300 from Dubai had already dropped off last week, because of the different timings of tournaments this year the dates points drop off is not the same as the next tournament. Fed I think had a lowest score of 25 Davis Cup, which makes him now 8710 to Andy's 7450, a difference of 1260. I may be wrong, and indeed I hope I am! We'll see on Monday.
Edit: must type faster, Linda beat me to it!
I didn't get to see the match and now I know that Andy lost I don't think I will. But I wasn't feeling 100% confident about Andy's chances today just because Federer is so good on a fast hard court. He often beats Rafa, Nole and Andy in fast conditions and it's where his game is at its best. The slower conditions in Indian Wells and Miami, on the other hand, suit Andy/Rafa/Novak far more than they do Federer.
I'm not too disappointed - Andy can't win them all and defeats against the rest of the top four have to be expected from time to time. What I feel really encouraged about in this tournament are his victories against Berdych and Djokovic - they were very important wins for him.
Good post Katie - a very fair and balanced perspective on proceedings.
And I would add to that the fact that Roger has had some decent form since the US Open. He's now won 33 of his last 35 matches. He was a deserved winner today.
The important thing as you said is that Andy beat Berdych - who has been a problematic opponent for him in the past - and a potential quarter final obstacle in slams - and it is huge that he beat Novak - a likely semi final opponent in slams. The actual odds of him playing Roger in slams this year are lowerthan him playing Novak/ Rafa. I'd therefore say that a priority for him is also to start chalking up wins over Rafa - I still think back to that US Open semi final in 2008 in terms of how he should play against him.
Plenty from which to draw encouragement.
Yes, you're right Madeline, as I posted a few posts ago.
Madeline
03-03-2012, 19:54
So I saw after I posted - hence the edit, which I must have done while you were typing your last post. . .:)
Haha, and I posted before your edit! :rolling:
ok - first chance I've had to post on this afternoon's final -
really disappointed for Andy!! - but he has played a really really good tournament in Dubai this past week -
and ok - Andy's serve and backhand weren't at their best today!! - however the positives from this weeks matches are many!!
beating Berdych and Djokovic are two impressive wins because of past results!! - which he came through so well -
and even Andy's win over Berrer in the first round - where over the past two seasons 2010+2011 - these kind of difficult matches - have seen Andy going out in the first round - and then we have had to wait until nearly May for Andy to get his game back together!! - which is not the case this year - and which makes me really looking forward to the up coming Indian Wells and Miami Masters tournaments!! -
it pains me to say but Federer deserved it today!! - maybe Andy was feeling the effects of this weeks efforts or maybe Federer just wanted it more - not only but also - this was the first time Andy had to play an evening match under the lights - but whatever -
yet again Andy shows he is very gracious in defeat!! - where as Federer............its all been said earlier!!
I am truly gutted for Andy as he wasn't quite on top form today. The serve and backhand went a bit amiss today! Though Fed played well today
But loads of positives from this tournament
1. Andy has had a miles better post AO this year than last year! To reach the final can only increase confidence :)
2. He beat Novak! Some revenge post AO and any win against the rest of top 4 helps! Boost for confidence too
3. He beat Berdych who has caused problems in the past!
4. Watch out next time Federer... Andy likes revenge ;)
5. The next tournaments speed of surface will suit Andy, Nadal and Novak's game more than Fed's
6. Andy has barely any points to defend in coming weeks
Trying to look at it positively. Am sure Andy will bounce back and come back even stronger!
Looking forward to Miami too where Mr Lendl will be there
david1610
04-03-2012, 01:02
First chance to post having watched the match in a very, hmm, something cafe (put it like this, it is a café that sells cigarettes one at a time as well as a packet at a time...) so lots of noise and hard to concentrate.
Agree with the previous posts and have to say Roger played better on the day. Andy managed to do what nobody else had done to Roger this week - break his serve, but as I said before the match, you do not beat Federer, even at this stage in his career, if you serve worse than him, particularly in more than one game in a set, and more than one set.
Feel it was a good week as long as Andy knows what happened today and can rectify it next time around. Just hope the knee niggle is that and no more. He must have been on a high after yesterday but to win something substantial he will probably have to play two great matches over five sets.
And yes, please please please avoid Dubious Dubai next year and stay in the States - look at the entry list for Memphis - it is also a 500 tournament - play something like that and (hopefully presuming they are still together) and spend as much time with Ivan as possible.
And put the thinking cap on, mix it all together and good luck next time!
LC the fan
04-03-2012, 01:19
I didn't stay up to watch this match- somehow I had the feeling Fed might prevail - he's been playing pretty convincingly if I hate to say it.
Obviously a bit gutted at the result but..hey ho ...sometimes that's the way it goes.
But agree with you all that much has been gained by the time in Dubai - he's laid the ghost of the drop after the AO, beaten two rivals with a better H 2 H, reached a final that he's never made before and generally showed himself to be the great contender that he is.
Feel that all bodes well for the USA
Aussie Andy
04-03-2012, 01:27
Well, better luck in IW and Miami. At least you've gained a few points and pushed further into the tourney than you've been before. To be frank Andy, why did you fly all the way over to Dubai to play in a 500 tourney when you could have stayed in the US and played a 500 tourney?
Definitely Andy should avoid Dubai next year and play one of the tourneys in America where he'd be nearer Lendl and the playing surface would be more suited to his game.
I'm sure Andy will be very disappointed that he was unable to defeat the Fed but he can take away with him many positives not only from this week but also from the beginning of his 2012 campaign. He had a tough draw compared to Fed but was able to come through it to reach the final by defeating the #1 player as well as a player he hadn't yet been able to beat in seven years.
I'm looking forward now to seeing how he fares at Indian Wells and Miami and the rest of the year. This might prove to be Andy's best ever year and I really, really hope so because he has worked so hard to get where he is.
Certainly the Fed deserved his win today . . . nuff said. :lol:
Well, better luck in IW and Miami. At least you've gained a few points and pushed further into the tourney than you've been before. To be frank Andy, why did you fly all the way over to Dubai to play in a 500 tourney when you could have stayed in the US and played a 500 tourney?
I guess though with the positives of having gained the confidence from wins over Berdych and Novak, that may help him in future runs!
Disappointed but Rome wasn't built in a day and Andy has laid down some very firm foundations this week and I think the walls are well on their way upwards! Thrilled that he's laid the ghost of the last 2 years' first round losses in his first post Oz tournie. His serve has improved massively already and his ability to play on the baseline. We can't expect him to transform overnight - progress is what is needed and I have to say IMHO it's there in buckets and much sooner than I could have hoped.
I'm afraid I totally disagree about missing out Dubai..........this week Andy has beaten Berdych and Novak and reached a final against Roger in which, ok, he didn't play his best but in which he acquitted himself well and had a chance to remind himself what it's like to play Fed so many months after their last meeting. So for me, it was all good. He wouldn't have gained the experience, confidence or been able to gauge where he's at against his main rivals (with the exception of Rafa) had he played somewhere like Memphis. I think this week has been HUGE in terms of moving forward and achieving goals.
I'm sure Ivan will be talking to Andy about today's match against Roger. I feel he's already flicked on a switch in Andy's mind but maybe today it got turned off again momentarily and Andy went into his shell a bit. But I feel that will be a temporary thing and over time we'll see more and more of the aggression that's developed recently.
BRING ON Indian Wells! If Andy can consolidate there by getting to say at least the quarters, then we'll know this is not a fluke or flash in the pan.
I'm afraid I totally disagree about missing out Dubai..........this week Andy has beaten Berdych and Novak and reached a final against Roger in which, ok, he didn't play his best but in which he acquitted himself well and had a chance to remind himself what it's like to play Fed so many months after their last meeting. So for me, it was all good. He wouldn't have gained the experience, confidence or been able to gauge where he's at against his main rivals (with the exception of Rafa) had he played somewhere like Memphis. I think this week has been HUGE in terms of moving forward and achieving goals.
I agree completely. Andy needs to know he can mix it with the top guys before the forthcoming masters, and to have beaten Novak is huge. Dubai had 8 of the top 10 players present. To play a tournament with no top guys would not help, in my opinion.
Federer played extremely well on what is almost a home ground for him - and I think that had Andy played as well as he did in the semis the result would be different.
So I am optimistic about this year - roll on Indian Wells.
galagirl
04-03-2012, 09:57
great post Pabbers - you've hit the nail on the head!
Disappointed but Rome wasn't built in a day and Andy has laid down some very firm foundations this week and I think the walls are well on their way upwards! Thrilled that he's laid the ghost of the last 2 years' first round losses in his first post Oz tournie. His serve has improved massively already and his ability to play on the baseline. We can't expect him to transform overnight - progress is what is needed and I have to say IMHO it's there in buckets and much sooner than I could have hoped.
I'm afraid I totally disagree about missing out Dubai..........this week Andy has beaten Berdych and Novak and reached a final against Roger in which, ok, he didn't play his best but in which he acquitted himself well and had a chance to remind himself what it's like to play Fed so many months after their last meeting. So for me, it was all good. He wouldn't have gained the experience, confidence or been able to gauge where he's at against his main rivals (with the exception of Rafa) had he played somewhere like Memphis. I think this week has been HUGE in terms of moving forward and achieving goals.
I'm sure Ivan will be talking to Andy about today's match against Roger. I feel he's already flicked on a switch in Andy's mind but maybe today it got turned off again momentarily and Andy went into his shell a bit. But I feel that will be a temporary thing and over time we'll see more and more of the aggression that's developed recently.
BRING ON Indian Wells! If Andy can consolidate there by getting to say at least the quarters, then we'll know this is not a fluke or flash in the pan.
Mandiemoo
04-03-2012, 11:09
Re playing in Dubai. I think it is because the top players are there that Andy chooses to go. I'm sure he would much prefer to stay in the states & would probably have a very good chance at winning the 500 tourney there given that most head to Dubai but I feel that Andy wants to play against the top players & to measure himself against them. I don't think the money or flashy accommodation or any of the other luxury perks are the deciding factor, its the challenge of the top players.
david1610
04-03-2012, 11:21
There is an argument to be made for the positive aspects of competing in Dubai and an argument for staying in the US. I don't think anyone has said there are no positives on the "other side". But let's consider 2013.
Next year at this time I am sure the effects of Andy working with Ivan will be much clearer. I suspect by then Andy will have played a lot of matches against the top three.
Then I am not sure what the argument to participate in Dubai in 2013 will be, especially because Andy himself has indicated he does not travel well. I do not see any signs of Andy moving his training base from Miami. If he needs tournament practice he is incredibly lucky that Delray Beach and Memphis, in the world scale of things, are "up the road".
He also, btw, could become the "adopted American". Roddick is ranked 30. Fish is no longer in his twenties, Blake close to retiring - the big boys Querrey and Isner, not exactly heading for the top ten, Ryan Harrison.... maybe - if Andy played the US in February, March then the swing leading up to and including the US Open every year and became "the tennis player of the US season" (he has won that before remember) on a regular basis he could then go into USO with even more support.
I accept the arguments for Dubai this year, but they seem to be just that, 2012 arguments. He gets 4 GSs, 9 (respect Monte Carlo) Masters and the World Tour Finals i.e. 14 chances a year to play against them. He and the players always mention that the off-season is so short. In this way he could get a month of solid quality practice.
And his coaching agreement is "part-time" because Ivan Lendl has other professional and personal commitments in his life. But the coach also has a house in Florida. This way he gets more time with his coach. We all agree about the positive effect of Mr Lendl's input so far. All cows eat grass. Daisy is a cow. Daisy.... or am I missing something??!!
The thing is that there was much expression of not wanting Andy to go to Dubai THIS YEAR..........next year, agreed may be a different kettle of fish.
He also, btw, could become the "adopted American". Roddick is ranked 30. Fish is no longer in his twenties, Blake close to retiring - the big boys Querrey and Isner, not exactly heading for the top ten, Ryan Harrison.... maybe - if Andy played the US in February, March then the swing leading up to and including the US Open every year and became "the tennis player of the US season" (he has won that before remember) on a regular basis he could then go into USO with even more support.he could go the whole hog and go for a greencard, least then he might get some support from the home counties come wimbledon
banskogirl
04-03-2012, 12:26
Disappointed but Rome wasn't built in a day and Andy has laid down some very firm foundations this week and I think the walls are well on their way upwards! Thrilled that he's laid the ghost of the last 2 years' first round losses in his first post Oz tournie. His serve has improved massively already and his ability to play on the baseline. We can't expect him to transform overnight - progress is what is needed and I have to say IMHO it's there in buckets and much sooner than I could have hoped.
I'm afraid I totally disagree about missing out Dubai..........this week Andy has beaten Berdych and Novak and reached a final against Roger in which, ok, he didn't play his best but in which he acquitted himself well and had a chance to remind himself what it's like to play Fed so many months after their last meeting. So for me, it was all good. He wouldn't have gained the experience, confidence or been able to gauge where he's at against his main rivals (with the exception of Rafa) had he played somewhere like Memphis. I think this week has been HUGE in terms of moving forward and achieving goals.
I'm sure Ivan will be talking to Andy about today's match against Roger. I feel he's already flicked on a switch in Andy's mind but maybe today it got turned off again momentarily and Andy went into his shell a bit. But I feel that will be a temporary thing and over time we'll see more and more of the aggression that's developed recently.
BRING ON Indian Wells! If Andy can consolidate there by getting to say at least the quarters, then we'll know this is not a fluke or flash in the pan.
Well said Pabbers :) much more positives than negatives to take from this week, any year, I think.
Andy showed again how he can play when at his best and I'm sure he and Ivan will go over what was not so good. It's a worry how the serve % goes up and down so easily but I'm sure Fed will also worry, realising this is the main reason Andy lost to him! Great week, well played Andy, bring it on!
The thing is that there was much expression of not wanting Andy to go to Dubai THIS YEAR..........next year, agreed may be a different kettle of fish.
As it has turned out there have been a lot of positives to draw from Andy playing in Dubai this year - without doubt beating Berdych and Djokovic back to back can only be good for his confidence. It's very easy to be wise with hindsight though. If, as could easily have happened, Andy had gone out to Berrer in the first round, I am sure everyone would have been questioning the wisdom of flying half way round the world and back for one week's tennis. Andy, himself, has said that the courts in the US are very different to those in Dubai. He now has the long flight to LA to contend with, plus jetlag, plus getting used to the courts before Saturday. O.K. so Fed has to do that too but he hasn't just done the reverse journey. I really hope that this week in Dubai hasn't spoilt his chances in Indian Wells but, as I am the eternal optimist - especially where Andy is concerned - I'm sure he will do just fine!
eeek, this is a tweet from Viola showing a gif (http://violalovestennis.tumblr.com/post/18728701687/andy-scared-by-the-firework-on-trophy-presentation) of Andy afraid of the fireworks at the trophy presentation! I don't blame him! They could have fried his hair!
Passionanda
04-03-2012, 17:10
eeek, this is a tweet from Viola showing a gif (http://violalovestennis.tumblr.com/post/18728701687/andy-scared-by-the-firework-on-trophy-presentation) of Andy afraid of the fireworks at the trophy presentation! I don't blame him! They could have fried his hair!
Personally I didn't think he looked AFRAID of the fireworks.....more likely, in my humble opinion, some sparks went into his eyes when he looked up at the fireworks as you could THEN see him clearly rubbing his eyes and talking to Fed about it a few minutes later. Anyway he probably wasn't prepared for the display as he's never been in that position before!
In 2012 so far I've been enjoying very much the matches of Andy. I watch with a lot of joy although they are sometimes to exciting to look at. One win, one final en one SF, thes ara very good results, there is a lot of progress in technical and also mental in such a short time! Look forward to the next tournament en new opportunities!
supergran
04-03-2012, 23:49
Personally I didn't think he looked AFRAID of the fireworks.....more likely, in my humble opinion, some sparks went into his eyes when he looked up at the fireworks as you could THEN see him clearly rubbing his eyes and talking to Fed about it a few minutes later. Anyway he probably wasn't prepared for the display as he's never been in that position before!I don't think he was frightened. Thought he looks slightly startled and then realised they were very close....which they were!!!
I missed the fireworks because I just couldn't bring myself to watch the prize-giving and suffer yet another of Fed's smarmy acceptance speeches.
Madeline
05-03-2012, 10:48
I missed the fireworks because I just couldn't bring myself to watch the prize-giving and suffer yet another of Fed's smarmy acceptance speeches.
Yes, I switched straight off after the last point!
hfwardhouse
05-03-2012, 10:50
I didn't, I wanted to see Andy get his runner up trophy and hear what he had to say - which was all good, as always.
I don't think he was frightened. Thought he looks slightly startled and then realised they were very close....which they were!!!
yeah you're right. Not afraid, just startled as I would be too!
Not been around on here over the weekend. Watched the semi (fantastic result!!) and the final though. Obviously disappointed Andy lost but sooo much more positive from him than this time last year or the year before, so I have high hopes for the rest of the season.
Ivan's with Andy at Miami, Monte Carlo and Barcelona before the French.
Andy's playing in Barcelona, that's news for me. where did you see that ?
I can never quite work out the relationship if you can call it that between Fed and Andy
dont know if Fed feels inadequate in Andy's company or if its just a personality clash, either way
Fed couldnt lick Andy's boots. The niceness that Fed portrays on TV is very false, at least with
Andy you get what you get. Sorry if that seems harsh but I dont do false folk.
Totally agree 110%
As it has turned out there have been a lot of positives to draw from Andy playing in Dubai this year - without doubt beating Berdych and Djokovic back to back can only be good for his confidence. It's very easy to be wise with hindsight though. If, as could easily have happened, Andy had gone out to Berrer in the first round, I am sure everyone would have been questioning the wisdom of flying half way round the world and back for one week's tennis. Andy, himself, has said that the courts in the US are very different to those in Dubai. He now has the long flight to LA to contend with, plus jetlag, plus getting used to the courts before Saturday. O.K. so Fed has to do that too but he hasn't just done the reverse journey. I really hope that this week in Dubai hasn't spoilt his chances in Indian Wells but, as I am the eternal optimist - especially where Andy is concerned - I'm sure he will do just fine!
How could it have spoilt his chance? He got to play Berdych and Nole and beat them and world # 3 and had a close encounter, that can't be bad at all. Great practice for next week, a good chance to measure up his games against the very best at the moment.
How could it have spoilt his chance? He got to play Berdych and Nole and beat them and world # 3 and had a close encounter, that can't be bad at all. Great practice for next week, a good chance to measure up his games against the very best at the moment.
I agree with you, Rouges - it was great practice. I just hope his body adjusts in time after a double dose of jet-lag - the second round matches in Indian Wells begin on Saturday. Andy himself has admitted that he is a very poor traveller and takes a long time to adjust to new time zones - which is why he now doesn't play Doha but goes straight to Australia from his winter training to allow himself plenty of time to adjust.
I agree with you, Rouges - it was great practice. I just hope his body adjusts in time after a double dose of jet-lag - the second round matches in Indian Wells begin on Saturday. Andy himself has admitted that he is a very poor traveller and takes a long time to adjust to new time zones - which is why he now doesn't play Doha but goes straight to Australia from his winter training to allow himself plenty of time to adjust.
Mind you, he used to be bad at getting up in the morning and having early matches till he changed his diet regime, so I wonder if that's affected his ability to deal with jetlag for the better too...........fingers crossed!
JAMES4578
05-03-2012, 23:15
I thought it very positive in Dubai, notwithstanding the fact he would have loved to take the title! However, it's all about peaking at the right times and Andy took a step forward . Hopefully Andy is now better with the jetlag. I think is was beneficial that he faced top 5 players, rather than playing in a lesser event and hope he returns next year.
Aussie Andy
06-03-2012, 02:06
Yes, the jet lag is my main concern. All the best, Andy, let's see you reclaim the No. 3!
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