Monday, January 27, 2014

Stani Wawrinka : Daddy’s Coming Home With A Grand Slam Title



Stanislas Wawrinka is the 2014 Australian Open champion, which is something that was unlikely to be uttered before the tournament or even at the start of the fourth round.

The whole Rafael Nadal was injured in the final narrative as some individuals or media organisations will portray as a way to diminish Wawrinka’s achievement. To those people, please go find the corner in the round room or chase some parked cars. Nadal played the match out, if his problems were that serious then he’d have retired the match.

Players and humans achieve maturity at different stages. Wawrinka had always been a good shotmaker, from both sides especially on the backhand side which has always been the best backhand in Switzerland. The forehand side while weaker isn’t such a liability, the areas where he struggled where his consistency, defensive skills and mentally believing he could beat the best players.


Beginnings

Dimi Zavialoff is someone who has been forgotten about in the Wawrinka triumph. If it wasn’t for him working with Stani for 17 years starting at the age of 8, travelling with him on tour until just before the US Open in 2010. This was the epitome of long term coaching relationship, giving him the tools to succeed on the professional tour and travelling with him in the early years.

They reached a point where Zavialoff couldn’t take him further as a player to maximise Wawrinka’s potential and parted ways. Peter Lundgren worked with him before moving onto another Swede who is his current mentor and former world number 2 Magnus Norman. It was since hooking up with Norman that Wawrinka’s rise has started where he matured as a player, improved his defensive skills, he has always been a strong lad but his movement has improved.


Wawrinka and friends

Nemeses’

There were a few nemeses’ that needed to be conquered before Stani could enjoy this wonderful moment. First of them was the tough as $2 steak Tommy Robredo. Before the 4th round match Wawrinka was down 1-6 in their meetings. Robredo is the kind of player that frustrates Stani, in that he defends so well and is solid from the baseline. In previous times Wawrinka while he could through Robredo was never patient enough to work the opportunities in his favour and would get angry. On this occasion he was able to hold it together, believed in what he was doing before meeting his bete noir Djokovic.

Last year Wawrinka lost two tough 5 setters to Djokovic, the one in Melbourne was memorable being up a set and 5-2, yet losing that second set and 12-10 in the 5th. It’s said as a player you learn more about yourself in defeat & how they respond. Wawrinka responded positively and this time Djokovic couldn’t escape the clutches. He was down 2-15 in their meetings with one being a retirement. Maybe, this was a sign of things to come.




Wawrinka is a well liked and respected character among his peers. His parents run an organic farm outside of Lausanne, in addition they look after disabled people as well. The rural background and seeing individuals who are less fortunate in close quarters have shaped his attitude

After Djokovic’s defeat he was glowing in his praise for Stani, which wasn’t fake unlike some other statements and actions. They’ve had 3 big battles in Slams and will be at it again this weekend in Davis Cup.

The semi final against Berdych wasn’t really a good match per se, but it was such a big opportunity for both players to make a Slam final which inhibited their play. That’s the beauty of tennis don’t have to play well, just be better on the day.

Final

One of my more positive friends said Norman was the coach at the time of Robin Söderling when he was 0-12 against Federer before defeating him at Roland Garros. He used the same analogy to say Wawrinka is going to beat Nadal. No, I didn’t believe him but should have.

At the start of the match Wawrinka was calm staying in the moment, not letting the occasion get the better of him which is the norm for first time Grand Slam finalists. One, never knows how often these opportunities to come around especially in an area of homogenised surfaces where there is little diversity in gamestyles.

Tactically Norman gave Wawrinka a brilliant plan which he executed to a tee for the first set and a bit. Instead of just trying to hit to Nadal’s backhand he spread the court effectively hitting to the forehand side to open up the backhand side. Yes, Wawrinka was being aggressive but not in total brainless ballbashing mode where there is just bit hitting with no purpose.

Nadal for all his greatness as a player is definitely world class when it comes to gamesmanship. Some members of the crowd booed him when he took a medical timeout to get his back looked at. As whether he should have been booed or not, that’s debatable. Fans pay their money so they should be able to cheer or boo who they like, as long as there isn’t violence or inappropriate comments towards the players.





It was very difficult for Wawrinka to handle this situation, especially as he’s a sensitive soul. Have to play an ailing opponent as there isn’t anything wrong with them guys like Ivan Lendl, Jimmy Connors, Thomas Muster, Jim Courier among others would have been ruthless. The time for compassion is off the court not on it, have to play it hard but fair.

Wawrinka stopped playing the way that was successful wasn’t able to move him around. He doesn’t have the game to be really nasty side to side, dropshot, lob, then repeat that’s the way to see if someone has a back problem.

Thankfully Stani was able to win the match in 4 sets and at the second time of asking served it out in style. If Wawrinka managed to lose a match like that, then easily the psychological blow could have impacted on the rest of his career.


Champ

Wawrinka has always been in the shadow of his friend and countryman Roger Federer. Finally he will get the credit he deserves as he was known “for many people I’m the Swiss guy that loses”. Really hope that mentality has been eliminated from most people. Defeating Djokovic and Nadal in the same Slam is something that deserves to be lauded.

Too bad there won’t be a tennis boom in Switzerland though they have two players the youngsters at Biel could learn a lot from. Is this a changing of the guard in men’s tennis? Unsure about that, but it’s good for tennis fans not player fans that someone different has won one of the Slams.

As children say things better Alexia will be happy when daddy comes home this time as a Grand Slam champion.

Thursday, January 23, 2014

2014 Aus Open review

Yes, my time at the Aus Open is over for 2014. The Berdych/Ferrer and Wawrinka/Djokovic matches were a fine way to end the tournament for me, the first one was there on centre court the other watching it on TV, both had very good endings.

Highlights

These are in no particular order since that would require effort. Stephane Robert the Lucky Loser who made the 4th round at the young age of 33. 10.45am he was in his regular clothes as Kohlschreiber was doing a fitness test on his hamstring which he failed. Some journalist was tweeting stuff that Kohli had withdrawn already when it wasn't the case, then 20 minutes later he is on court playing Aljaž Bedene.

It was fortunate he played Bedene who was underdone and it showed at the end, but that's not the point. Robert took advantage of the draw playing some entertaining tennis and after losing to Andy Murray he received a great standing ovation. Thankfully the local crowd got behind Robert who deserved that set against Murray, but the extra class of the Scotsman and impact of the previous matches caught up with him.

This sums it up pretty well about the standing ovation which was loud enough to blank out the on court interview with Murray who was smiling at the end of it. After the match Judy Murray gave Stephane a hug and genuine encouragement and congratulations on his tournament.


Robert

Q. What was it like signing the autographs at the end?

STEPHANE ROBERT: Signing autograph, it happen to me even if I play a small tournament, likes exhibition tournament, so this is okay. But the standing ovation, this is a good surprise. I lost, and then the speakers say, Robert, the lucky loser. History. I didn't hear anything. Then they start, Robert, Robert. It's unbelievable for me.

I'm happy. People enjoy see my game today. So, yeah, it was a great, great feeling for sure.

Bautista-Agut

Bautigol, it's from my departed friend and respected tennis writer Shank Tennis in honour of the great Argentine striker Gabi Batistuta (Batigol). He had an excellent tournament and the only one of the semi finalists from Auckland or Sydney that made the 4th round.

He was excellent in Auckland, then came out and made chorizo out of Smyczek in the first round. Hitting winners from both sides, if not clean then on the next shot. The performance against del Potro coming down from 2 sets to 1 down was outstanding in that he didn't lose belief in that he could win the match. It happens so often when the lower ranked player is in a position to knock off a top gun, in most cases they play the ball and not the man.


RBA

Paire was just fodder and the match against Dimitrov was where his backhand failed him this time. It was an outstanding match from both guys but Dimitrov played the big points better. As Bautigol is the Spanish player with a very flat game and there was some tension, put that together with the small margin for error shots were flying out on the backhand side. It's the classic when under pressure your technique faces the greatest scrutiny.

His football team Villarreal are doing well in La Liga. Bautista played for their youth academy up until 14. Had his best Grand Slam result and was included in his first Davis Cup squad.

Berdych and Wawrinka

Both are well deserved semi finalists, it would be brilliant if either one won a Slam. It's about time there was a different winner. Unless you're a fan of the big 4 the hegemony in the ATP in an era of surface homogensiation where the game has changed to the point where it's not necessarily about the skill is something that needs a shake up. It doesn't matter how wonderful the meal is, but if it's served everyday for 5-6 years then it loses its lustre.

Berdych being sponsored by H & M, it's an interesting choice and still not sold on the Deportivo La Coruña shirt. Maybe as my fine friend from Ostrava Maria says maybe H & M are going to use Ester (Mrs.Berdych) to model the clothes. Yes, she is very pretty in person but needs some more meat on the bones.


Berdych

The big man has been playing very well, the timing on his shots when he is on is very sweet. Berdych was the guy in juniors who was so used to beating up on everyone that he never had to struggle or fight say like the man he beat in the quarters David Ferrer. That 4th set there were a couple of pivotal games which the Berdman managed to hold his nerve. In the old days he'd have folded like a cheap tent, yes he still has those moments but not to the level of his younger years.

Can he win a Slam? Yes, he has the ability but does he truly believe he can that is the big issue. He'd cheering for Federer in the other semi final, as ever since Madrid when he gave the crowd the shhh gesture he hasn't got close to beating Nadal.

Wawrinka, finally he gets the win over Djokovic after losing 14 times in a row . It was getting like Djokovic was the Road Runner and Wawrinka was like Wile E. Coyote. For those who don't get the reference use the interwebs or youtube those two and it will become clear.

Magnus Norman has been a brilliant addition to the Wawrinka team. Stani always had the strokes, especially the backhand side and once set can rip the forehand as well. He'll never be a great defensive player like Nadal or Djokovic but that side of his game has improved, though Norman's great influence is the mental side of things. Stani has never been afraid of working hard which is something Norman was famous for and having a player who made a Slam final, reached number 2 in the world who can communicate effectively has helped Wawrinka played his best tennis.


Stani

Stani managed to defeat Robredo and Djokovic who before the event had a combined total of 2 wins and 20 losses. He has the better record against Berdych, would love him to win a Slam but still can't see it. In fact either player would be great.

Miscellaneous

Excellent tournament for the Poor Mans Federer aka Grigor Dimitrov. Just hope for his sake Roger Rasheed doesn't overtrain him like he did with Hewitt and Monfils especially. Yes, he played a good match against Nadal, but the thing I like was the reaction to the loss. He wasn't happy to be there, he was disappointed that he didn't get the win but it's all about how he bounces back from this defeat.

Damir Džumhur who knocked off Dreddy Brown the top seed in the qualies made the 3rd round the first player from Bosnia and Herzegovina to do so. He is only 21, has a good aggressive game definitely needs some more strength which is paramount in modern tennis.

Blaž Kavčič has made a concerted effort to be more aggressive which is something he needs to do. He already has the defensive skills in place. Training with Federer, Tsonga and Ferrer in the UAE off the season has helped him already. There were benefits in Sydney and in the match against Radek Štěpánek as well.

When he played Federer indoors that was the end of his tournament. The last set was good but in the first two he was overawed by Federer which still happens. Barring injuries and playing a smart schedule Kavčič should be around the 60-70 mark. He won't have to worry about Davis Cup this year which is disappointing with Žemlja only just started hitting again, with Rola and Bedene not playing for their own reasons. Slovenia have a reasonable squad but will be stuck in the lower levels due to certain issues.

As for Federer, well it's good to see the youngster playing well again but Wawrinka srill has the best backhand in Switzerland.

Fabio Fognini, what can one say about "The Fog". Well he dances to his own tune and the guy is so arrogant it's actually a caricature. The Fog could only be an Italian, he is the kind of guy who if he worked at a public service office in Italy or railway station would close the counter when it's your turn and laugh in your face.


The Fog

In spite of this and the massive peacock strut Fognini is an entertaining player and he played some fine tennis this event. The Fog never lacked confidence but now it's backed up by some excellent results and his best ever result at a hardcourt Slam. No indication of the guy that got chopped by Rajeev Ram for the loss of 5 games at the US Open. Jose Perlas has done an excellent job with the Fog, then again he did take Carlos Moya and Albert Costa to RG titles. Seeing them working together in close quarters it's like Perlas is the father and Fognini is the whiny child, but it works.

Ivan Ljubičić has a tough job with Milos Raonic, some would say that it's a good choice of coach for Raonic. While Ljubo was never a speed demon across the court he was much better from the baseline than Raonic, even when Ljubo smothered the forehand. This is the challenge for Raonic it's his movement that will hold him back. Yes, it helps having a brilliant serve and the forehand is a good shot but the backhand and anticipation are poor. He is still some way from challenging the elite on a consistent basis, but he has time.


Thiem

Dominic Thiem the young Austrian has a lot going for him and will be in the top 100 when the latest rankings come out at the age of 20. Qualifying and winning a round in your first Slam is a good achievement. The kid can play and under Gunther Bresnik who guided Horst Skoff & Koubek beforehand, so he has someone there who has done it before. Too bad his mad fitness trainer wasn't down in Australia. This is a guy I'd like to meet Sepp Resnik , the tour needs more eccentrics.

Pablo Carreño Busta played an excellent match against Benneteau, but this is a big year for him and on that showing it looks like he can make the jump from being dominant in Futures and Challengers. It wasn't hard to see why he was voted The Most Improved Player of 2013 . It helps that he is in Barcelona since as lovely as Asturias is to become a professional player have to leave the region to train with better players so one can improve. His peers are aware of him which makes another challenge he has to face.

Tommy Robredo who is definitely not one of my favourite players on the circuit and never will be. He deserves a mention for being tougher than $2 steak. Coming back from the injury and back into the top 20 at over 30 he hasn't lost any of his speed. Yes, he is a bit a douche but got to give respect where it's due. This is a player who never gives up until game set match has been called.

His performance against Gasquet was excellent but at the same time Gasquet really doesn't have a clue when it comes to court positioning. It was like their previous match in Melbourne where Robredo didn't need to moonball like he did against Rosol, played on or just behind the baseline and worked Gasquet over. It has taken a lot of years but finally the hype around Gasquet is gone, hit some flashy winners and he's brilliant it wasn't the case then, it's not now thankfully.

Legends

- Michael Chang still has huge calves.
- Stefan Edberg is in great condition, only looks a bit older in the face.
- Ivan Lendl still plays a round of golf everyday and I caught him having a smile.



Becker

Then we have Boris Becker who looks like he's drunk or taken some bad steroids to have a face that is so puffy. Yes, the others have aged but still look like their old selves. Whereas Becker not sure what's going on there with him. This leads to his deal with Djokovic, definitely sceptical about what he can bring to Djokovic. The previous three aforementioned guys it's clear what they bring to Nishikori, Federer and Murray respectively, seems like Djokovic got on the bandwagon for a publicity stunt. Marian Vajda is the best coach for Djokovic, but let's see how long this lasts.

Last legend bit Goran Ivanisevic to Carlos Moya. Yes, this sounded better with Goran's great accent.

"Hey Moya, Spanish Davis Cup captain. You have the easiest job in the world. You have 77 players to choose from and if you need number 78, then you can play and Spain still win". Moya laughed and like any exaggerated statement there is truth in that especially on the clay.

On that note, thanks for reading these reports and this rather long review. Apart from the stupid heatwave in the first week, it was very enjoyable to go to the Aussie Open. Best of all didn't have to put up with the TV feed in the first few days which is uniformly awful.

A licky boom boom down.

Saturday, January 18, 2014

Round 3 : Stephane Robert doing it for the battlers

Doing the entries now by round now as my time is coming to an end. The main story here is that Stephane Robert has been truly a Lucky Loser, though no luck in how he has played to make the 4th round.

Fognini - Querrey

The Fog started slowly was moaning for the first few games like the baby who didn't get his milk. Big Querrey served for the first set and the Fog broke back, once he was able to confirm the break of serve he settled down and the antics started to die down.

Fognini wins 4 games in a row to take the first set and he was strutting around like he owned the court. The last two sets the Fog played some brilliant tennis and probably his best match on a hardcourt. He was running everything down and hitting big forehand winners. As well as the winners he was able to get to and expose the poor Querrey backhand for what it is.


Fog roaring into the fourth round

After he won the Fog was loving life with that look like the cat who got the cream. He was showing more flair than Ric Flair and the after match interview with Fognini English which is colourful like him. He said what he wanted to say and not necessarily the question being asked.

Robert - Klizan

Stephane Robert and Martin Klizan two lucky losers playing for a spot in the 4th round. Robert at least tried in his final qualifying match whereas Klizan tanked it up to a level that Tomic would be proud of.

Robert got the early break and Klizan really showed why he is the poor mans Melzer in this match. After hitting a good serve, he'd miss a very easy shot or try some silly drop volley which Robert was able to handle this easily. Robert while he played well in the 1st set, it wasn't that good for him to bagel Klizan.

Klizan finally holds serve in the 2nd set as both guys manage to hold all the way through to the tie breaker. Robert was the better player during the set as he had more chances in Klizan's game than vice versa was able to move Klizan around while making less mistakes.


Robert

Robert got the tiebreaker and kept continuing on the same way with some passing shots, good winners and Klizan either hitting a winner or an error. Klizan has never been known to be the hardest competitor and he was hanging onto his serve whereas Robert was breezing through this.

At *5-3 the Frenchman served out the match, yes there were a few little stumbles but Robert believed in himself and finally got the win. This is a huge moment for the 33 year old battler, the last 16 of a Grand Slam, good ranking points which can make the schedule easier during the year and some cash. He is a very likable individual and one for the battlers here.

Bautista Agut - Paire

Bautigol continued on from his previous good form. Paire was clutching at his knee and if it was that bad he couldn't play he should have retired from the match. Good that he played it out, but he was truly rubbish out there to be honest.

Bautigol hitting the ball deep and to the corners, giving the ball more loop on his forehand than usual so he could get back into the points. Paire's whole game was poor not sure how much of the Kyrgios match took out of him, then with Paire isn't not like he is the most dedicated to fitness or mentally strongest around.


Bautigol

With a fourth round spot on the line getting closer against an opponent who looked like he was tanking. Bautista struggled to serve out the match, failed on his first attempt to do so, then Paire held his serve. Bautista managed to get through the nerves and after a double fault which almost cleared the baseline, he was deservedly through to the last 16.

Bautigol has had a great start to the year, it's a question of how far he can rise in the rankings. His rise won't be limited to a lack of work ethic.

Thursday, January 16, 2014

Day 4: Bautigol steals the show and not enough 5 setters

Another day in the furnace of Melbourne Park, though unlike the previous days they decided to implement the heat rule. It's interesting that it's much drier than yesterday which felt worse but finally decided to suspend play.

Seppi - Young

Seppi is a player who gets better with more matches and he was back to his usual slow starts. Young was playing quite well and there wasn't much in a tight 1st set but Seppi with a poor service game at *4-5 dropped serve and DY took the first set.

Young had a bit of a lapse and Seppi lifted his game slightly and was extending the rallies taking the second set easily. DY is hitting the backhand fairly well and the forehand getting some work on it. Seppi played another poor service game just making errors and Young takes a 2 set to 1 lead and is getting all animated.

Seppi is getting bothered by the hear but is winning the extended rallies the majority of time. Young isn't waiting too long before getting the first strike in. Seppi dropped serve early in the 4th but was able to get the break back. Seppi held from 0-40 down and the only first serve he got in the game was an ace when he had game point. Young plays an awful game to get broken double faults and shanks galore. So we're at 2 sets all.

After the break both played poorly it was just Young was less poverty stricken and won. Seppi had break chances for 4-2, then he served 3 double faults to get broken. DY decides to return the favour and Seppi plays another poor game to lose serve. This time DY actually went for it and served it out.


Robert - Przysiężny

Best result of the day with the likable Robert taking this match. Of course this should have been done in straight sets but that's not the Robert way the easy way.

Przysiężny was trying to be aggressive but was missing a lot of shots and mostly slicing his backhand instead of hitting it. Robert with the slightly ungainly style was hitting very well and playing without fear. He easily had a 2 sets to love lead and then served for the match in the 3rd set. Robert played a very poor game and was tentative which doesn't suit him as he doesn't have the defensive skills at all.


Robert

Robert got the early break in the 4th and in the last few games Przysiężny didn't want to know and Robert plays the ball and not the situation which is easy to say but hard to achieve. His 3rd round match with Martin Klizan is a battle of the lucky losers, it would be fantastic if Robert could beat the poor mans Jürgen Melzer.

Federer - Kavčič

What to say about this match apart from the first two sets Federer played very well tactically and was teaching Kavčič a lesson. The fact that the roof was closed for this match was perfect for Federer as there were no elements at all to deal with.

An indication that you knew it was Federer's day were the numerous backhand down the line winners. Kavčič didn't serve well enough in the first two sets. Fed was returning well and able to get Kavčič off the baseline with short returns into parts of the court that Kavčič isn't comfortable with and worked him over from there.


Kavčič

It was tough for Kavčič who isn't great indoors but the conditions helped Federer even more in a match where he had a huge advantage. In the 3rd set Kavčič played better as he was able to improve his serving. While Federer was holding serve easily, Kavčič was struggling and fighting hard on all of his service games to the tiebreaker.

Kavčič had a forehand in the tiebreaker that he missed, then served a double fault. Any half chance he had was gone and it would have definitely been against the run of play if he managed to win the 3rd set. Federer was never really in any trouble at all and in the first two sets Kavčič was very passive at best.

So far Kavčič a good start to the season, he has been working on some things to improve his game. Has to stick with it and continue to make improvements. He isn't the most naturally talented but he works very hard to maximise his potential which is all anyone can ask.

Simon - Cilic

Gilles Simon trolling like a master that is all one can say about this match. This man who has recovered quicker than Hulk Hogan really should have been out in 3 sets to Marin Cilic but trolled him to win this match in 5.

As good a trolling effort this was, the one against Monfils when he won in 5 and the Massu one where he was carried off court with cramps rate higher on the troll scale. Cilic was handling business fairly easily, then in the 2nd set tiebreaker Simon was in wall mode and Cilic gave it away.

The third set was the best Cilic up 5-1 with a double break, failed to serve it out and then somehow wins the tiebreaker by being semi aggressive which got him to the lead. After the 3rd Cilic dropped his concentration and Simon got in that zone where he misses very little and in the last set was even hitting some winners. Neither player was injured, neither played well but Simon was less rubbish.

Bautigol

First major upset of the tournament was delivered by Roberto Bautista Agut taking out the Tandil Tower Juan Martin del Potro in a result that was fantastic for RBA. I've seen a lot of his matches and in his first round match where he made Smyczek look like a village player. Yes, he played well in Auckland as well, thought he could push him and get a set but didn't expect him to win.


Bautista-Agut

Bautigol defended when he needed to but was more aggressive as well and didn't lose belief in what he was doing. Will be interesting to see if he can follow that up as he plays crazy Benoit Paire or the young Kyrgios.

In spite of the losses for Kyrgios and Kokkinakis they unlike Tomic have great attitude to the game and look like they enjoy the sport. The Kokk playing Nadal now knows what kind of work it takes to be at that level. Kyrgios it's a conditioning and he'll worki hard on improving that.

Fognini owns the universe

Yes, it was another cold day at the tennis complex known as Melbourne Park. This is why the writing on here isn't more regular due to my lack of appreciation for deadlines and keeping hydrated tends to take precedence.

Dzumhur - Dodig

The all Bosnian battle though Dodig plays for Croatia. The Bosnian fans were there trying to create some atmosphere in the shitty conditions.

Sure, it was one match but in reality there were two different things going on here. In the first two sets it was a good quality match with Dodig showing his extra experience and looked like he'd win this comfortably. However this changed fairly quickly as Dodig took a medical timeout and forfeited the game to do so. Dodig is not a guy who uses tricks to put the opponent off and his body decided to shut down in the heat.

While this is a great win for Dzumhur making the 3rd round of a Slam after qualifying and the Bosnian fans were loving this win it truly sucks for Dodig.

Chardy - Dolgopolov

Numerous occasions I have referred to Jeremy Chardy as a ballbashing buffoon and will still use this term when needed. Today though Chardy was excellent in this match, serving huge and placing it well and slamming big forehand winners against one of the fastest players on tour.


Jeremy Chardy

This is not to say Dolgopolov didn't have his chances but they were few and not converted. It's obvious to see why Murray and Djokovic handle Chardy quite easily, in the former he is able to absorb the pace and place shots that gets Chardy off the baseline and into the court to exposes his weakness and the latter defends too well that Chardy can't hit through him. Can see why he beat del Potro last year on this performance.

Dolgopolov competed very well which is something that hasn't always happened. After taking the 3rd set TB, in the 4th set buster he was up 5-3 on serve and went for an off forehand that didn't need to be that aggressive and lost it. Chardy then served some bombs and took out the match at the end Dolgopolov gave the racquet a huge smashing.

Anderson - Thiem

One match too far for Thiem as Anderson won this comfortably. Big Kev was hitting huge from both wings and serving well on this basis he was able to push Thiem further and further back from the baseline.

Thiem is on the verge of the top 100 which is impressive considering how hard it is for younger players to break through these days. He was foot faulting big time, it seems to be a habit he has that his foot starts on the line then he moves it back in the service motion. Can't believe the foot fault judge was missing it, as it was more than blatant.


Fognini - Nieminen

The Fog was in full peacock strutting mode out there, but the play on this occasion backed up the strut. He is a strange guy to watch, hardly moves his feet but is one of the fastest players on tour. Some good extended rallies but the Fog was slapping forehand winners for fun out of nowhere.

Nieminen was a bit off but not that much, there were still opportunities for him to get back into the match. The Fog was having one of his moments and this is when Nieminen should have seized the initiative after taking the 3rd set.


Fabio Fognini

After failing to convert some break chances early in the 4th set something strange happened and came out of nowhere. Nieminen was up 40-0 and then got broken, it was all because of errors and nothing Fognini actually did to earn the break. Once he lost that, then Nieminen mentally checked out of the match which was strange in itself and the Fog saw an opportunity to finish the deal which he managed to do easily in the 4th.

Interesting match with him and Big Sam the tourist for a place in the 4th round.

Tuesday, January 14, 2014

Day 2 Feeling Hot Hot Hot

Apologies for this late entry, was going to do it last night but the fact my brain was fried more than usual is enough of a reason to delay the writing of this.


Raonic - Gimeno Traver

Tough draw for Gimeno Traver, especially in the hot and dry conditions with the balls flying around. DGT was up a break twice i, this is one thing especially when playing a huge server that it's imperative to look after your own serve and take the break chances when they come along.

Unfortunately for DGT he wasn't able to confirm the break of serve, which is the oldest truism in the sport. It's not a break unless you hold serve. One thing at the ground level the Gimeno Traver forehand is a weapon and the sound off the racquet, it's something I wouldn't mind owning however the fact he has a Carlos Moya backhand offsets this. He hit some good passing shots but on one it bounced twice before it hit the net.


DGT

Raonic while not at his best in the conditions once he took the first set was not going to lose this match. It's commonplace once a player loses a tough set, that they drop their first service game of the next set and if the lower ranked guy has won the first set same thing happens.

Berdych and big Kevin Anderson are outstanding movers for guys of their size it's something Raonic will always struggle with. At times it looks like once he hits the ball that he isn't following it off the opponent, more like reacting to their shot and can get caught out. Naturally he'll never be an Usain Bolt, while he has the advantage of the huge serve like anything it has drawbacks.

At the end of the match there was an awful rendition of "O Canada" the anthem, it really sounded like moose were being castrated.


Robert - Bedene

Some journalist was allegedly saying Kohlschreiber had withdrawn hours before the match which was eventually proven to be true. If this was the case since the Lucky Loser sign in was closed and it would have been replaced as soon as it was available, this was definitely not the case as the man Stephane Robert was dressed in his regular clothes at 10.45 not the regular happening for a match starting at 11am.

Once the fans got to the court, then it was announced that Robert was the Lucky Loser. There was a delay in starting the match naturally but this day turned out it to be Robert's lucky day for sure. Robert lost in the last qualifying round to Michi Berrer who won as well.


Robert

He had the perfect opponent in Aljaž Bedene who is underdone and still coming back from wrist problems in very hot conditions. Bedene was a very good draw for anyone in this event maybe not as good as Volandri or Soeda Go. Robert took some time to settle into the match and especially in these conditions the first set was vital. Bedene wasn't hitting as freely as he can and Robert was being more aggressive especially with his backhand down the line and once he took the tiebreak, then the match was comfortable for him.

Bedene in the last set was struggling with the conditions and a lack of conditioning, whereas Robert was full of confidence swinging freely and took advantage of his luck. Now, he plays Przysiężny next.

Kavčič - Štěpánek

Of course the match of day well from my own biased perspective was between the sexiest man in tennis Radek Štěpánek and Blaž Kavčič. It's always tough to play against Štěpánek he didn't get to have so many women and still hold a good ranking in singles at his age with that forehand without some brains and tricks.

Kavčič dropped his opening service game and was a bit off his game in the beginning. In those brutal conditions it's not necessarily about who has the best tennis, more so who is prepared to do what it takes and how willing they are to stay out there to win.

Kavčič gets back on serve and then the crafty Štěpánek calls for an injury timeout at 5-5 *30-40 to get a neck massage. The umpire should have made him wait until the change of ends to do so, but there is nothing in rules to say he can't call for the trainer at that time. It was a deliberate move to stall momentum and throw Kavčič out of his rhythm, something Steps is known for pulling along with his variety, sneak moves to the net and backhand down the line make it an interesting challenge to play Thunder Lips.

After the delay Kavčič breaks serve but is unable to serve out the set. Kavčič gets very frustrated as Štěpánek takes the tiebreaker and seems to be moving without too many problems at this moment. Štěpánek's tactics worked initially as Kavčič was still upset with the manipulation of the rules for about 30 minutes as Štěpánek gets a double break. Kavčič gets one of the breaks back, but still loses the 2nd set but momentum has shifted as Kavčič gets an early break in the 3rd and starts playing the game on his terms hitting his forehand better with more pace and depth, still too many backhands down the line on the passing shot as Steps has been sweating on these.


Kavčič

Once Kavčič took the 3rd set, his superior conditioning and fitness was starting to tell as Štěpánek wasn't moving to anything 1m or 2m away from him. Even then Kavčič had to be focused on the possibility of Steps saving energy for the 5th. Still have to play an opponent who is ailing like there is nowt wrong with them. In this case Štěpánek decides to pull the pin and Kavčič with a big smile on his face endured the brutal conditions and came through them.

Now he has a date with some Swiss person called Federer.


Baurista Agut - Smyczek

Only saw the last set of this match and the best way to describe this match was murderation. Bautigol made chorizo out of Smyczek who wasn't able to handle the good clean hitting from both sides from Bautista.

The timing was excellent from Bautigol if his shots weren't winners on the first strike then he was served up fodder from Smyczek which got dealt with absolute contempt. Bautigol has improved a lot and can see what a great thing confidence can do to a person or vice versa when they don't have any.

Too bad for all his good play that Bautigol is drawn to play the roboto Del Potro.

Brands - Simon

Daniel Brands 6 match points and failing to get this one done. The man should have sat in the ice bath getting drunk after this match. The last set was strange neither guy really wanted to win it, more like they played not to lose and Simon can do passive play better than most in the tennis world.

For a man who was on crutches allegedly out for 6 weeks according to Mr. Rothenburg that Simon wasn't moving that badly. If you're able to jump and hit a backhand smash then you don't have an issue with your leg. Simon was being passive and using the pace of Brands, whereas Brands was using that massive serve of his to dictate play.

This match was the classic where the lower ranked guy doesn't believe he can win and the more chances he fails to convert the more likely Simon was winning the match. Only on 1 of the match points that Brands went for it was a short second serve from Simon, he runs around his backhand hits a massive off forehand which clips the tape and goes the wide. There were 2 good serves from Simon and 3 very passive shots from Brands.

Naturally when Simon broke, he served it out and took his first match point. Tough loss for Brands but he was very gracious taking photos with people who asked and signed autographs after he lost. Hopefully Cilic who took out Granollers in 5, superior conditioning won for Cilic as well as Granollers was cramping bad in the 3rd and 4th will be able to eliminate the injured Simon.

A licky boom boom down.

Monday, January 13, 2014

Aus Open Day 1 : Lukas Rosol murders a tennis match, Carreño Busta, Dzumhur and Thiem impress

Day 1 of the Aus Open had to republish this blog due to some technical error, will do my best to keep updated on the action outaside the main courts.

Giraldo – Querrey

This was a frustrating match, then again watching Santi Giraldo is one of those experiences. The first set Santi lost on one break of serve at deuce, he gets a dead let cord and a miss hit forehand ends up being a high moonball mid court with nothing on it which Giraldo dumps it.

Querrey takes the 2nd set comfortably, but has a lapse in the 3rd which Giraldo takes advantage of as he starts to read Big Sam’s serve which more regularity and makes less errors.

Naturally Giraldo drops his opening serve but is able to get it back on serve with a mix of some good play and the odd easy missed shot from Querrey.

Giraldo takes the early initiative in the buster, but it’s always a question of when the loose shot is coming. In this case not very long and Querrey who isn’t known for his tactical acumen played a solid breaker. He was patient when he needed to be, on the return of serve he blocked the first serve back and pounced on Giraldo’s weak second serve.

Big Sam who looks like the goofy American tourist deserved the win, he played the bigger points better and for a South American Giraldo does have feet of concrete. A guy like Davydenko at his peak, Dolgopolov with his very fast feet, Djokovic or Federer they know how to move on the court but Santi he is more reactionary than the Tea Party.



Fancy Footwork

Giraldo would love him to win a title but can see why he is ranked where he is. As a shotmaker he is excellent when set, but has poor defensive skills, average footwork at best and a very weak second serve.

Nieminen – Sela

This one smelt of a 5 set match and wasn’t disappointed. To those who read this rather strange blog know I’m a big fan of the Shark and got a lot of respect for Dudi Sela doing for the small guys with a single hand backhand.

Sela was on fire at the start of the match slapping backhand winners for fun and putting Nieminen under pressure who was struggling not hitting his forehand at all, a combination of pushing and smothering it. When he did try and hit the ball it was missing the lines clearly.

The crowd for this match was fun and entertaining. Had the Israeli fans creating plenty of noise but weren’t obnoxious unlike some groups. Some Finns supporting Nieminen and a group of Swedes as well since there are no Swedish male players doing it for Norden.

Since neither player has a strong serve there were always going to be a few breaks of serve. Sela had a 4-1 lead in the 2nd but Nieminen while not playing well kept fighting managing to get it to a tiebreaker and got the job done.

They swapped 3rd and 4th set a mix of some extended rallies corner to corner with Sela trying to dominate with the backhand and Nieminen with the forehand down the line to expose the weaker Sela forehand.



Nieminen forehand

Once it got to the 5th set Sela looked tired but Nieminen still had to finish the job and it was far from convincing. It was a very poor first attempt to serve it out, still don’t know how he managed to get it done second time around. Nieminen was only hitting gentle first serves that had “hit me, hit me” all over it.

In the end the fitter and better player got up. At the end of the match a warm embrace between the two players. Sela went to the fans on the other side of the court and high fived everyone not just the Israeli fans, well imagine if he won and Nieminen as per usual was classy with the fans after the match.

Dzumhur – Hajek

Been an excellent few days for Dzumhur he was the best player in the qualies took out the in form Dustin Brown in the first round and continued today.

First set was pivotal in this match, it was a tight first 8 games. Hajek was trying to use his forehand and Dzumhur was being more aggressive from the ground and off the serve.

Once the Bosnian got the break in the 9th game and served out the first comfortably, then it was always on the cards the last two sets were going to be easy. Hajek has been known to tank some matches. Even then Dzumhur served well worked Hajek all over the court and used the forehand drop shot to great effect.

Next match against the ferociously determined Ivan Dodig will be a big challenge for Dzumhur but never know in this sport.

Thiem – Sousa

Austrian youngster and qualifier Domi Thiem was excellent today against the feisty Joao Sousa who definitely put on a show with some antics against the officiating, himself and the odd comment to Thiem. Sousa has white line fever.

Thiem served for the first set at 5-4 but failed to take this chance but he didn’t panic and was able to control his emotions. Thankfully he improved his court positioning and was timing the ball well unlike Sousa.

In the final set Thiem looked tired and took a medical timeout for a supposed leg injury, but probably needed a massage so this is the way to get that done since allegedly players can’t be treated for cramps. This was a good win for the youngster and now plays big Kevin Anderson.

Benneteau – Carreño Busta

First time seeing Carreño Busta live, it’s always better to see players live than on TV or livestream as you pick more things and nuances which are more visible live.

As for the Asturian he played quite well in unfamiliar conditions where the ball was flying against a wily customer like Benneteau. PCB dropped the first set but through his aggressive forehand was able to keep Benneteau beyond the baseline working him over. Unlike many youngsters he had the testicular fortitude to move into the net and finish the point off.


Carreño Busta

Benneteau stepped it up and once he got the early break in the 4th set, he wasn’t allowed Carreño any room at all. This was welcome to the big boys club now and Benneteau took the 4th and 5th sets easily.

This was a case of the stronger, fitter and more experienced player getting the job done. Carreño has a bit to improve, needs some more variety but like Thiem they’ll develop their speed endurance levels as they get older. It helps he is working with Javi Duarte who guided Carlos Costa and Alex Corretja among others.

Ramos- Andujar

The big Levante fan Andujar played an excellent all round match in the derby. He hasn’t been playing well, this match was perfect him as Albert Ramos hasn’t been on fire either.

Andujar was very consistent and used his forehand to break down the very average backhand of Ramos. As the pattern continued Ramos attempted to change things up by running around his forehand but was pressing too much making a multitude of errors, getting pissed off in the process.

Mantilla would be happy with that performance of Andujar. He can put up some reasonable results on hardcourt, like anything it comes down to confidence on the surface.

Leo Mayer – Montañes

Mayer was dominant in this match from beginning with strong serving and aggressive hitting from both sides. It was the first time he has won a match in Melbourne and to be honest Fat Albert Montañes should have put on his visa application that he was here for tourism and not professional.

It’s obvious that Montañes didn’t care too much, but he struggles with the movement on the hardcourt and since his peak days where he actually won some matches, he is exposed big time these days.

Robredo– Rosol

This was the worst result of the day for so many reasons. First of all some positive things about Tommy Robredo is that he is very tough to beat, he has maximised his potential and this is all you can ever ask from a tennis professional. Young players could do worse than see how Robredo competes and emulate it.

First set Rosol was playing cricket and Robredo doesn't have any problems taking it. Rosol settles down and takes a hotly contested tiebreaker with a bit of controversy where Fergus Murphy gets involved, well more on this guy later.

Rosol is hitting the ball well takes the 3rd set and is up a break in the 4th set. As talented as Rosol is as a ballstriker he isn't a tactical genius. This is obvious as Boredo is standing 5 metres behind the baseline to return serve, when someone does this then the obvious thing on the deuce side is to hit a slice serve going taking them even further off the court, after this either hit behind them as the run to the open court or do it on the second shot. On the ad side then it's a kicker wide, that's pretty standard.

Rosol isn't doing any of this and getting tight in the process. Boredo is moonballing like Conchita Martinez except with less flair and Rosol isn't reacting well to this under 10s tennis, naturally Robredo gives more moonballs.

The main things that stunk about this result are the most important thing Rosol had so many chances and opportunities to put this match to bed. Had a break in the 4th set outplaying Boredo from the back, then in the 4th set tiebreaker he was up 5-1 but refused to make a 1st serve, not everyone has an Isner like second serve and Boredo being tougher than $2 steak gives nothing away and nor should he. Rosol had a break in the 5th as well, had some chances early as well. Not sure his girlfriend would want to be around him right now.

Back to Fergus Murphy now. Rosol had a match point hits an ace and he's celebrating like he has won the match. Robredo didn't complain and was going up to the net to shake hands. However the lineswoman makes such a ridiculously late out call which no one heard but Fergus saw it and calls out "Official Interference", it seems like he is making it up as he goes along calling a first serve.

Robredo is rather urined off as he correctly pointed out if the serve as out, then how can it be a first serve and Fergus then calls second serve. Murphy handled this very poorly then he gives Rosol an audible obscenity warning, when Murphy should have got one for that village level officiating.

This doesn't excuse two factors that Rosol murdered this tennis match and while Robredo in the eyes of the Fog who spoke for many he is a "hombre di mierda', he is one tough "hombre di mierda".

Random

There were way too many people today at the grounds today. You know it's an issue when matches that aren't normally on most radars are full and a pain to find a set. The balls were flying today, hot weather and low humidity makes it a challenge.

Not sure if this is the last of Michael Russell we'll see in Australia but I hope this isn't the case unlike Robredo he is no "hombre di mierda".

Saturday, January 11, 2014

Welcome to the Jungle Grand Slam qualies

Yes, it's that time of the year when this rather infrequently updated blog sees more action than usual. Before Melbourne, I was at the early round of the Sydney tournament. There was the hoopla about the courts being a lot faster this year because of what happened in Brisbane. The jury is still out on that one.

This will read more like a summary of what happened during the qualies and will attempt to compose daily reports when the main tournament begins. Now all the qualifiers have been placed in the main draw, there are some potential upsets.

So Long We Hardly Knew You

Qualifying for a Grand Slam is one of the more difficult things to achieve in tennis, when you see the joy of a successful qualification, whether it’s the first time achieving it like Blaz Rola, Damir Dzumhur or Dominic Thiem to the veterans like the German weightlifter with the very soft voice known as Michi Berrer.


Dustin Brown

The ones we hardly knew this year were the number 1 seed Dustin Brown who still owns the coolest hair in tennis. He was outplayed by Dzumhur who returned very well and dominated from the ground. Urged on by the vocal Bosnian fans unlike many big wins, he followed it up by qualifying in style.

Amir Weintraub who had to defend second round points after qualifying fell in the 1st round to Herbert. It was one of those matches where he had plenty of chances but failed to convert. Got to say the single backhand of Weintraub is still impressive. He is the guy who plays at such a high level for Israel, but can’t do it consistently on the tour.

Diego Schwartzmann, he Argentine Oli Rochus with less feel around the net. He’d still be urined off losing his match to Zhang who made it through to main draw. 6-3 *5-3 leading and managed to lose 4 games in a row, had more than enough chances to break in the 3rd. It was the classic Schwartzmann lost it more than Zhang won, but it goes down in the book as a win which is all that counts.


Blaz Rola


This was “The Ayatollah of Rock n Rola” first attempt at qualifying in Melbourne and has a 100% success rate. Watched all of his matches, and in his case it was the best decision to go to the USA for university tennis at Ohio. When he finished school in Maribor, Rola wasn’t good enough to turn pro nor did he have the hitting partners or facilities at home to develop his game further.


Blaz Rola

Had a variety of opponents Alessio “Too Good” Di Mauro in an all leftie battle and “Too Good” was throwing in some moonballs, some angles and Rola found a way to get it done though it was far from impressive.

Next up for the “Ayatollah” was Rajeev Ram who was rocking the Rampras service motion even more than usual. It was a good challenge for Rola facing the low slice backhands and the net rushing from Rampras. Rola had a lapse but was able to pin Rampras on the baseline who moves as well as Sharapova on clay.

Today the “Ayatollah” played very well initially, using his big leftie serve moving it around well and the off forehand dominating Herbert who was irritated with how he was playing. Rola had another lapse which lead to Herbert jumping out to a 4-1 lead. This is something that the “Ayatollah” needs to get out of his game if he wants to progress into the top 100 for which is a reasonable and attainable goal.

Once Rola broke back, then Herbert started cracking it mentally, one of his racquets was destroyed, a ball hit out of the stadium and he gave the last break of serve away with two consecutive double faults. Rola served it out fairly comfortably and his matches were watched by Bedene and Kavcic though they weren’t there at the same time.


Dominic Thiem

Here is the latest product from Austria who has been rising up the rankings. It’s always better to watch players live than on a computer, but we can’t always get what we want.

The three matches with Thiem were very variable in relation to the way he played but he won, which is what counts. Rik de Voest served for the match in the 1st round, this was not a good impression from Thiem who was standing 5m behind the baseline and retreating on de Voest’s second serve giving up way too much ground to a player like de Voest. Thankfully the more credentialed player managed to get through.



Thiem was better against Bachinger, the second set was a bit of a tank but both players played fairly well. The Austrian kid seems to be the kind of player who plays better on the big occasion, today he knew he needed to step it up against the Poor Mans Jurgen Melzer otherwise known as Martin Klizan. Thiem was able to do this and now contesting his first Australian Open.

He is still very young needs to work hard on the speed endurance, going to take time to grow into this physique and find out what works for him, but with the right attitude can see him doing quite well.

Random Stuff

One of my friends when he saw Andre Ghem in qualies refused to believe he is Brazilian because of the light brown and red beard. I’m like in the south of Brazil there are German descendants down there you know like Giselle Bundchen, then he kept quiet.

Stephane Robert too bad he couldn’t get the Lucky Loser spot, though maybe he might with Simon doubtful. He is a top guy, quite an entertaining player in a strange way but the high risk game can backfire as well. Robert has come a long way in a year after the injury problems.

Wayne Odesnik is still a rat and it was strange he even had some people cheer for him, maybe they were clients in his pharmaceutical distribution business he had on the side.

Odesnik's former coach Felix Mantilla is still a man of the people and the backhand still looks good. He is working with pretty boy Pablo Andujar who has happens to be a Levante fan, yes they do exist.

"The Fog" Fognini the strut is still as awesome as ever watching him train. It's like Perlas is the father and he has this kid who has ADHD. It's interesting watching them work together.

Paul Capdeville still grunts like a constipated donkey and yes as annoying as before, though he didn’t grunt on a slice backhand that is something that takes some special talent.

Rhyne Williams is a bit a brat on court, never know he might be a good guy off the court, then again he might not be.

Very happy for Jimmy Wang qualifying for main draw, as he is a player with some flair and had some bad injuries as well. Well the Taiwanese fans will have fun that he is playing Lu in the first round.

Milos Raonic doesn’t have a good first touch when it comes to tennis football. He was playing Monfils against the coaches, all the others were pretty good but Milos needs a bit of work. The best one of the foot tennis was when it was Luis Horna & Pico Monaco against Robredo & Clavet. Horna good touch puts the ball for Monaco to volley straight into Robredo’s nuts.

Oscar Hernandez Farewell Tour

When the King’s name was on the Entry List I thought it was a joke, but he turned up and played for fun. The result wasn’t important, it was just good to see Oscar coming back and having a go after the back surgery that went so wrong.




Oscar’s got the wife, kid and is working with his old coach Marcos Roy with some coaching of juniors. He was delighted with the support, had plenty of friends in the crowd. His friend who he flew out with got upgraded to business class, while the King was travelling with his subjects in economy class.

As we know the King doesn’t sleep on an air mattress so his mate had to put up with that. Apart from the weather, can say the qualies was fun before the cattle come in on Monday.

Tomorrow will do a report on the main draw.