As God is my witness, my goal is to turn this forum into the Tennis-Figure Skating Emporium!

[joeybee12]

[TBF]

1. Awesome. I can talk about Federer for hours :)

Have been watching since he came out of Juniors. There are many others I enjoy watching also, my hubby plays club level tennis and we are pretty devoted to the tennis channel.

[joeybee12]

2. Woo-hoo!

Tennis threads die quickly around here!

[trusty elf]

174. From a fellow Federer fan.....

Have you seen this?

&feature=youtu.be

[TBF]

175. Wow - thank you!

No, I hadn't seen that and it's very interesting to see what goes into one of those photo shoots. He must spend a fair amount of time on endorsements, I know he makes a lot of $$$ that way (as all the top players do).

[TZ]

3. Geeze.

Just try posting this bleep in the Lounge where I'm a host and I'll lock it so fast!! I'm disappointed. I thought you would make this a cats in sports forum.

[joeybee12]

4. That's next!

And I can't figure out how to add smilies!

[TZ]

5. type out the smilies

Here's a good one for tennis threads

[joeybee12]

6. Ok...thanks...and whyw as this post "pinned"????

[Renew Deal]

7. I support your goals for this forum.

And besides, how funny would it be to have people come in here and find out tennis and figure skating are the rage?

[joeybee12]

8. Woo-hoo!

They're the rage somewhere!

Already someone has noted that there was no tennis group under the main sports topic...shocking!

[madinmaryland]

9. Unfortunately we cannont lock obscure sports topics!

[joeybee12]

10. Like Cowpie posts!?!

[El Supremo]

11. Only if we can have a bowling group >>

[joeybee12]

19. Done! nt

[Faygo Kid]

12. OK with me so long as there are posts about Kim Yu-Na

She is cuter than Ndamakung Suh, after all.

[joeybee12]

16. And I've never seen her kick another skater in the gut...nt

[bluedigger]

13. Why is this pinned?

You people have gone mad with power. And not in the normally disturbed madinmaryland way. This is much, much, darker.

[joeybee12]

18. If things don't go well in Denver next Sunday, you'll thank me...nt

[Renew Deal]

25. lol

[SpiralHawk]

26. Keep the Faith, JBee

It's your Patriotic Duty

[joeybee12]

35. Yeah, but the Pats are not only up against the Broncos

They are also facing GOD!!!!

[RagAss]

14. I want my $600 subscription fee back !

[joeybee12]

17. Just for that...yours shall be increased!!! nt

[Jack Rabbit]

15. Check

[center]

[font size="1"]Photo: Chess by Anna Cervova from PublicDomainPictures.net (Public Domain)

[joeybee12]

20. What a dilemma...will you post your gloat-free baseball scores here?

Or in the baseball sub-forum????????????

[Jack Rabbit]

23. Haven't decided

What do you think I should do. After all, this is a tennis/ice skating/chess forum, and that one is for baseball.

I'm sure this will also be a boxing forum when H20man starts posting.

[Renew Deal]

24. lol

[madinmaryland]

21. When are you going to have a chess update??

[Jack Rabbit]

22. Soon

I had a busy November, during which I b ecame an old man (60).

Former world champion Vladimir Kramnik won the London Chess Classic today. American GM Hikaru Nakamura finished second and world number one Magnus Carlsen took third.

[marmar]

27. Just kicking to keep it going.......

[joeybee12]

28. Great photos...

I was sort of going for past greats...was thinking of putting Don Budge, Stan Smith, Arthur Ashe and others...and I bet most people wouldn't recognize them.

[TBF]

39. I can't believe you didn't post my favorite of all time (after Federer) - Patrick Rafter

[joeybee12]

40. That now seems so loooooooooooong ago! nt

[MaineDem]

46. He is one of my all-time favorites! n/t

[ScreamingMeemie]

29. Throw in a little bit of curling...

...and I'm in!

[joeybee12]

30. Done!

Although I think I'm too late to edit the original post.

[hughee99]

38. My first thought as well. n/t

[trotsky]

31. Anything over Boston area sports teams! n/t

[joeybee12]

34. Why I oughta!

Now I need the DU smilies page to show my angry smilie!

[KamaAina]

32. I've got it. Tennis On Ice!

It's a surefire winner! And the leaps over the net after match point could be triple salchows or something!

[joeybee12]

33. Wonderful!

But you have to post some photos of that!

[SpiralHawk]

36. competitive Disco Roller Fishing

?a=1
May 26, 1979 – Do you like to roller skate? do you like to fish? You do?! Well, then you'll want to bring the whole family out to Ray's Disco Roller Fishing Park!

http://snltranscripts.jt.org/78/78trays.phtml

[joeybee12]

37. Roller Disco!

Ah, how that takes me back!

[joeybee12]

41. WHY is this dropping?

Outrageous!

[TBF]

42. I see I am remiss in my duties here ... Roger's schedule for 2012!

Qatar Exxonmobil Open
01/02/2012 - 01/07/2012

Australian Open
01/16/2012 - 01/29/2012

ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament
02/13/2012 - 02/19/2012

Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships
02/27/2012 - 03/03/2012

BNP Paribas Showdown
03/05/2012 - 03/05/2012

BNP Paribas Open Indian Wells
03/12/2012 - 03/18/2012

Sony Ericsson Open
03/19/2012 - 04/01/2012

Mutua Madrid Open
05/07/2012 - 05/13/2012

Internazionali BNL d'Italia
05/14/2012 - 05/20/2012

Roland Garros
05/28/2012 - 06/10/2012

Gerry Weber Open
06/11/2012 - 06/17/2012

Wimbledon
06/25/2012 - 07/08/2012

Olympic Games 2012
07/27/2012 - 08/05/2012

Rogers Cup
08/06/2012 - 08/12/2012

Western & Southern Open
08/13/2012 - 08/19/2012

US Open
08/27/2012 - 09/09/2012

Shanghai Rolex Masters
10/08/2012 - 10/14/2012

Swiss Indoors
10/22/2012 - 10/28/2012

BNP Paribas Masters
10/29/2012 - 11/04/2012

Barclays ATP World Tour Finals
11/05/2012 - 11/11/2012

http://www.rogerfederer.com/en/tennis/schedule/year/2012.html

[joeybee12]

43. Just a couple weeks and the seaosn begins again! nt

[joeybee12]

44. It's January and lost of tennis!

Rafa and Roger won in Qatar today, as did Jo-Willy...Murray won in the tournament he's in Brisbane, I believe, where Serena twisted her ankle and withdrew...Aussie opens in a couple weeks!!!!

[MaineDem]

45. And Kim is back!

Sam Stosur lost so Kim doesn't have to face her next. After that, she was in line to meet Serena. Kim is on track to win Brisbane and then go to the AO. In my ideal world anyhow.

[TBF]

48. I hope Kim plays well this year -

I always enjoy watching her.

[MaineDem]

53. So far so good!

She's into the semis at Brisbane.

[TBF]

47. Fun in Qatar -

http://www.qatartennis.org/

[joeybee12]

49. The guy in white resembles Roger...nt

[trumad]

50. Alerted.

[MaineDem]

62. Oh no, another retirement from a match

Kim has a hip injury. Hope she's better by the AO.

[MaineDem]

64. And now it looks like Federer has withdrawn with an injury.

Australian Open looking iffy.

[jumptheshadow]

51. Here ya go, figure skating and kittens

[joeybee12]

54. Wonderful! I love it when Mom comes over to check things out!!!

[jumptheshadow]

55. Okay, Whippersnapper...

You can get all macho with the "Mom" stuff but I have seen more sports history than most of the G.I. Joes who pound their chests like apes in this group.

I listened to Mantle and Maris duke it out on radio and owned both of their baseball cards. My grandmother and I kept track of every pitch.

I stormed the field after the Bills won the AFL championship in 1964. Jack Kemp was the quarterback, Cookie Gilchrist was the runner, and the crowd roared when the linebacker Mike Stratton broke the runner Keith Lincoln's rib with a brutal hit. Who needs gladiators when you're at a championship game in Buffalo and the Bills are actually winning?

Ralph Wilson was youngish back then. His wife received a mink football as a gift. There's a colorful description of the day here:

http://www.mmbolding.com/BSR/fbchampionships/AFL1964.html

My next great love was Mizzou football, which was mostly an exercise in frustration. There was that wonderful moment in 1972, however, when they came off a 62-0 loss to Nebraska to upset Notre Dame 30-26. The shocking victory silenced my snotty Notre Dame cousins for at least 10 years. (They are more humble people and we are friends now.)

I was at Dave Righetti's July 4th no-hitter and even have the Yankee hat they gave out that day.

I was one of a few hundred fans to attend the sequel to the infamous "Pine Tar" game described here:

When the Royals came to bat I shouted "Check the bat!" The folks in my section picked up the refrain and soon every Yankee fan in that stadium was hollering along.

As a reporter I covered the Billy Carter Tennis Tournament featuring Billy, Bobby Riggs and Chris Evert in Plains, Georgia. I even got to use Miss Lillian's bathroom -- and yes, I looked in her medicine cabinet.

I still like my football and my baseball ... and I was riveted to the screen during women's world cup soccer last year, which was one of the best-played events of 2011.

I bet the Bonzos in this group would never admit that it was. Heh.

[joeybee12]

56. Hey, I mean the Mom Cat...

Did you see her come in from the left...noticeably bigger than the others!

[jumptheshadow]

57. Oh, that's what you meant!

Yes, Mom was funny, coming in to check on her goofballs.

[Ruby the Liberal]

58. That was a really cool post though.

Even if not for the reason you started it.

Are you a sports journalist?

[jumptheshadow]

65. No...

I considered it and would have loved to have written about sports. Back in the 70s, though, it was a very difficult path for a woman to take. The players could be tough and you had to have much a thicker skin than I did. I was the reporter on a photo feature about the Billy Carter tournament.

[bigwillq]

52. I'm with you on tennis

The only thing about skating that I like is when they fall on their face.

[ScreamingMeemie]

59. I also liked the reality show Johnny Be Good...because he is just

a character.

[bigwillq]

61. Johnny Weir?

Never heard of that show. I guess I can Google, but being lazy right now.

[ScreamingMeemie]

66. I got the name wrong. "Be Good Johnny Weir" is the name

http://www.sundancechannel.com/johnny-weir/

[MaineDem]

63. Did you see that he just got married?

Too bad he couldn't do that in Maine. (But we're working on it.)

Just my attempt to keep politics in the sports forum.

[ScreamingMeemie]

67. ...

I didn't know that!

[sabrina 1]

60. If you can do that, I will definitely be here.

Used to be a figure skater, and have always been an avid tennis fan. Keep us informed if you do.

[joeybee12]

68. Qatar tennis results...spoilers...

Roger pulled out with a back injury putting Tsonga in the final against....Monfils, who beat Rafa in straight sets.

[joeybee12]

69. This is sinking...can't have that! nt

[enuegii]

70. Kicking... because someone had to.

Oh, and ROLL TIDE!

Because someone had to.

[TBF]

71. Aussie Open (spoiler)

http://www.atpworldtour.com/~/media/BD873524FBD54B11850589104E183D73.ashx


1/2 of the top 16 are determined -

Philipp Kohlschreiber GER
Juan Martin Del Potro ARG (11)
Bernard Tomic AUS
Roger Federer SUI (3)
Tomas Berdych CZE (7)
Nicolas Almagro ESP (10)
Feliciano Lopez ESP (18)
Rafael Nadal ESP (2)

[joeybee12]

72. Spoiler response

Roger gets to play Tomic...I don't know if they've played before...he could be tough. Sorry Stanislaw lost as did Isner.

[MaineDem]

73. He was awesome

(Leaving Tomic's name out of the title)

I like Dolgopolov but the crowd was so much behind the Aussie it was tough for Dolgo. A long 5-setter.

And Li Na won when Medina had an injury. I think she meets Clijsters next. I'm still pulling for Kim to win this again.

[joeybee12]

74. Didn't see it, but I'm sure they were...

the crowd, that is.

I'm pretty sure it's Li v Kim next.

[joeybee12]

75. Spoilers...

Now it'll get interesting, with Roger playing Juan Martin and Rafroid against Tomas...those should be good matches and we aren't guaranteed a Rafroid-Roger semi. Also, I think most people figured Tomic would give Roger a better match.

[TBF]

76. Agree with that -

Del Po is a tough opponent against Roger, it gets more interesting now.

[joeybee12]

79. Tomas is still sort of a mystery...

I thought he would really break through a couple years ago at Wimbledom, and while he's done well since then, he really hasn't had the consistency one needs. Hope he wins, though.

[TBF]

80. I've been watching Ernests Gulbis and thinking he might break though

but no such luck. I also like Ryan Harrison.

[joeybee12]

81. A couple years ago Gulbis was beating everyone...

At least he was able to...but again it didn't pan out.

[MaineDem]

77. And I just saw one of the best women's matches

But I'm a bit partial to Kim.

I was watching it live last night and had to turn it off when Kim faced 4 Li Na match points in the Tiebreak. I couldn't bear to watch her lose. I turned AO Radio on an hour later to hear her win the match. This morning the match was on again and I saw her win the tiebreak and then the third set. Awesome! (Oh, me of little faith.)

And this was after she turned an ankle and had to get it taped in the first set. Now on to a meeting with Caro!

[joeybee12]

78. Sort of feel bad for Li Na...

Her nerves are a wreck...except for a short time last year, she really does blow it a lot. I wonder how bad Kim's injury is and if she'll be up for her next match.

[MaineDem]

82. Did you see that Serena match?

She looked like her feet were made of lead. She wasn't moving at all!

She looked totally out of shape. Like the commentators were saying, the lack of match play over the past year is really showing. And didn't she say recently that she doesn't want to play tennis?

She's had a good run. Maybe it's time for her to go on to her other ventures.

I think the women's quarterfinals are going to be quite interesting.

[joeybee12]

83. I think you're right...

She never really was motivated to pay a lot of matches and get into shape...she got away with it when she was younger, but if she wants to win another slam she really needs to focus...no more two-months time outs...what is she, 30 now? She's at the end of her career either way, so she needs to figure out if she really wants it.

[marmar]

86. I don't think she was out of shape as much as her ankle is still not right.

She twisted it pretty badly just before the Open started.

[joeybee12]

84. Top 4 women are in the quarters...

Seems to me it's been a while since that happened...the women are far more unpredicatble than the men.

[MaineDem]

91. And there'll be a new Number 1 when this is over

Caro didn't have enough for Kim last night. I got really nervous in the second set but Kim managed to pull it out. Not her best tennis but good enough.

[joeybee12]

92. Caroline has beaten Kim before...

Can't do it in the majors...

[joeybee12]

85. Spoiler...watched the...

Rafroid-Tomas match this morning. Sucks. God I hate Rafroid...his roid rage carried him through the last 2 sets...hoping for an upset, but it wasn't meant to be. Now let's hope the tennis Gods are paying attention and Roger beats the little fraud in the semis.

[marmar]

87. Although after Berdych's complete assholishness in the Almagro match.....

...... I say 'good riddance'.

[joeybee12]

88. I didn't see that match...

I wonder if Almagro did actually aim for him...wouldn't put it past him.

[marmar]

89. Not at all. He was on the run and took a swing and Berdych was at the center of the net....

...... Almagro ran up to see if he was OK after he got hit. Berdych was just an ass.

[joeybee12]

90. He does seem like he's a hothead...

Although I dislike Nadal so much I'll cheer for anyone to beat him.

[joeybee12]

93. Spoilers from late Tuesday/early Wednesdays...

No surprises, but I was sort of surprised all the matches were so easy, on both the men's and women's sides...especially the men's...thought Ferrer would take a set, and maybe Nei from Murray....top 4 through to the semis.

[MaineDem]

94. Some great matches in Melbourne

Djokovic and Murray in the fifth set now.

Nadal and Federer went 4.

Great to watch.

[marmar]

95. I thought Roger had Rafa after that first set......

It's the typical pattern in Roger-Rafa matches.....Roger seems to have a plan that's working, but he can't sustain it.

[joeybee12]

98. He's 30 and there's a mental block he has with Rafa...

Sucks...I would have rooted for Murray had he won today...anyone but rafroid. Thing is, had Murray won, he wouldn't beat Rafroid...Djoker probably will, although the sheen of invicibility he had in 2011 is gone.

[marmar]

100. I know.....I really do think Roger will win a major this year......

...... I'm thinking on the green grass of SW19.

[joeybee12]

103. That's his best shot, really...

Clay no, and the hard court of the US will even things out for everyone...

[TBF]

96. I was pulling for Murray -

if Federer couldn't make it to the final I was hoping someone other than Nadal/Djokovic .... oh well. Is anyone watching the ladies? I don't care for Sharapova's screaming but nice to see Azarenka make it - someone new.

[marmar]

97. That women's final will be ear-splitting.

nt

[joeybee12]

99. I'll root for Djoker...glad he won just because

Murray would have folded against Rafroid...anyone but him. I think Djoker needs to focus more if he's to win, although the surface suits him better.

[MaineDem]

101. I really do not like Djokovic

So I'm a Rafa fan for the final.

Women - Azarenka all the way. And, yes, it will be loud from the court.

[joeybee12]

102. Time to mute the television set!

I think Azarenka will win, but it would not surprise me if Maria did...the court suits her.

[MaineDem]

104. I always mute the tv sound and listen to the radio coverage

I can't stand the inane comments from the tv hosts.

[joeybee12]

105. 1983 I was in France during Wimbledom and I caught the matches

on Eurosports or something like that...they would go literally for minutes without saying anything...compared to every second yapping away here...it was a nice break.

[TBF]

106. Me too - I don't like Rafa winning #11! nt

[TBF]

107. Title No. 71

Rotterdam: Federer d. del Potro 02/19/2012 - 10:42 AM

Practice partners on Monday, Roger Federer and Juan Martin del Potro squared off for the silverware in Rotterdam today. It wasn't long before Federer turned the final into an educational experience. A clinical Federer issued a tennis tutorial using the entire shot spectrum in racing to a 5-0 lead before dismissing del Potro, 6-1, 6-4, to collect his 71st career title.

http://blogs.tennis.com/racquet_reaction/2012/02/rotterdam-federer-d-del-potro-.html

[joeybee12]

108. I like Juan Martin, but I like Roger better...

Wasn't a great match..not sure if Roger was hitting os well or if Juan Martin was making mistakes. Apparently Roger has more smaller tournaments like this to get points...I think he could overtake raf-roid if he wins a big one this year...raf-roid has too many points to defend.

[joeybee12]

109. Spoiler...

Murray beat Djoker in straight sets...I said it before, Djoker will still be #1 this year, but he's not in the zone like he was last year...won't be as impressive a season.

Roger took the first set from Del Potro.

[TBF]

110. And another spoiler -

Can't wait for this final! Roger v. Andy

This one should be good - could go either way.

[joeybee12]

111. I watched the replay online...spoiler

With the benefit of knowing the outcome, it seemed to me as I watched that while it was close, Roger was in control...whenever he got into trouble (which was rare) you knew he'd get out of it somehow.

[TBF]

112. I watched it this morning -

he seemed more confident today. This was a good win for him.

[joeybee12]

113. When Murray first came on the scene he was beating Roger regularly...

Then Roger figured him out and has been winning most of the meetings since then.

The commentator said Murray looked nervous...he did...he was nervous in the final of only a 500 series event...he'll never win a major unless he gets his head on straight.

[TBF]

114. I agree about Murray -

I like the kid and hope Lendl can help him. People talk about the top 4, but I see it as top 3. Novak may not have the history of Roger and Rafa, but he has a lot of confidence and I think he will remain a big threat even if this year is not as good as last. I just don't see Murray in the same league.

[joeybee12]

115. Yeah, he only made it to #3 because Roger

had a really bad year...Roger is playing better and will put some distance between him and Andy. Andy needs a shrink at this point...lots of natural talent, but can't get it together for any length of time.

[TBF]

116. Guga inducted into the Hall of Fame -

Oh how I loved watching Guga play - so much heart! And the best is that he gave all his trophies to his younger brother with severe cerebral palsy.


Here's the story -

NEWPORT, R.I. (AP)—Three-time French Open champion Gustavo Kuerten was elected Thursday to the International Tennis Hall of Fame.

The lanky Brazilian nicknamed “Guga” reached No. 1 in the ATP rankings and collected singles titles at Roland Garros in 1997, 2000 and 2001.

He showed up at the 1997 French Open unheralded, unknown and 66th in the rankings, but wound up being the second-lowest-ranked man to win a Grand Slam championship.

“I have to confess, in my first years playing tennis, I didn’t even know that the Hall of Fame existed,” Kuerten said Thursday at a news conference in Brazil. “It was something I really didn’t expect to happen. Now I know how important it is to be there.”

Kuerten, who couldn’t hold back the tears when he watched a video of his retirement in 2008, is working to bring the ATP World Tour Finals to Brazil beginning in 2014.

<snip>

He also wants to play an exhibition match against Roger Federer at the end of the year in Brazil...

more here: http://www.tennis.com/articles/templates/news.aspx?articleid=16792&zoneid=4

[joeybee12]

117. That seems so long ago...

To be honest, that was a period I sort of tuned out tennis, Agassi and Sampras were winning, and I loathe them both...on the women's side GrafT was winning also, and I dislike her even more than them. Good for Guga, though.

[joeybee12]

118. Spoiler from last night...

Murray lost 6-4, 6-2 or something like that...no way will he ever win a big one.

[MaineDem]

119. Can you start a new thread?

With the pics and all this is getting toooooo long.

And Roddick won a three-setter. Wonder how far he'll go at Indian Wells?

[joeybee12]

120. Wasn't he down a break in the second...

I was sure he was going to lose...Roddick plays Tomas Berdych next...tells you how low in the rankings Roddick has fallen....3rd round and he's up against him.

I COULD start a new thread, but I still need to keep this one alive!

[bluedigger]

121. Thomas is getting shelled right now on national tv.

That's close enough to figure skating, isn't it?

[MaineDem]

122. As much as I want the Bs to win, I love to see TT fail.

Tee Hee

[joeybee12]

123. I agree..I have really soured on him...it's on thing to be a Repuke...

It's quite another to be a criminally insane sovreignist.

[joeybee12]

124. Hey, I had to knock those damn Payless threads off the top spot!

[TBF]

125. Sony Ericcson and everyone's playing :)

http://www.sonyericssonopen.com/Share/Event-Draws.aspx?Year=2012&Draw=ms

[joeybee12]

126. Roger gained about 600 points on Rafa because of Indian Wells...

Djoker is below 13,00, still a 2000 lead over rafa, but no longer a 3,000 lead.

[TBF]

127. Yup - he's gaining on him. Nice to see 2 american men in the top 10 ... I guess you

can't write off Andy Roddick with his serve, but I can't see him coming back at this point.


1 Djokovic, Novak (SRB) 12,670 0 19
2 Nadal, Rafael (ESP) 10,175 0 20
3 Federer, Roger (SUI) 9,350 0 20
4 Murray, Andy (GBR) 7,450 0 19
5 Ferrer, David (ESP) 4,700 0 23
6 Tsonga, Jo-Wilfried (FRA) 4,535 0 25
7 Berdych, Tomas (CZE) 3,860 0 23
8 Fish, Mardy (USA) 2,910 0 23
9 Tipsarevic, Janko (SRB) 2,730 1 27
10 Isner, John (USA) 2,675 1 24

[joeybee12]

128. Roddick is about #30 now and there's no indication he's

focused and going to make a run...best I see him doing from this point on is pulling some upsets now and again.

[joeybee12]

129. Wow..neither Venus or Kim are seeded for Miami...

They both have to play first round matches...I dind't think Kim was out that long...maybe not defending her Aussie Open crown really hurt her.

[TBF]

130. I had to look up their rankings -

Serena is at 11
Kim is at 37
Venus at 134

I can't imagine Venus will last much longer as a pro with the Sjogren's syndrome diagnosis. I know she promises to come back and all that, but it's just hard. I used to run marathons but finally was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis a few years ago (I'm in my mid 40s now). My dad has the disease as well and for us there is very little skin disease - it is mostly in our joints. Mine is moderate and with medication I am doing very well. Phil Mickelson, the golfer, seems to be having good results as well. But golf is very different from tennis or running - it is not nearly so jarring on the knees and hips. I gave up my running and switched to long walks with my dog. Not nearly so much weight coming down on your knees when you walk. If I were Venus at this point I think I'd consider coaching.

I've always liked Kim - hope she can recover from the injuries and keep at it awhile. She's almost 30 now too ...

[joeybee12]

131. Kim is a real shock...

I thought she was seeded fairly high at the Aussie...maybe I'm imagining things...Venus isn't as much of a shock...she's been gone a while and had been dropping prior to the diagnosis...

[joeybee12]

132. Spoiler

Tipsarevic beat Nalbandian in straight sets...tough second round draw for David...he should have beaten Nadal at Indian Wells.

[joeybee12]

133. No comments?

I think beating Petra was a good win for Venus; however, I really also think Petra is on a downward spiral, which isn't good for the game. Andy v Roger might be interesting today.

[TBF]

134. I'll be watching Andy v. Roger tonight -

and I did catch part of Venus' match. I was so happy for her! I didn't much like watching her before this but now I feel a certain kinship with her

I'd really like to see an Azarenka/Serena match so I hope they both keep winning. Women's field seems pretty open right now (which is why Venus and Kim are still holding on I guess) - and I know Azarenka's in the zone but will that continue against a determined Serena? I dunno ...


Also watched part (ending) of the Berdych/Dimitrov match ... I am interested in the young Dimitrov - looks like an up and comer.

[joeybee12]

135. Speaking of Czechs that are on a downward spiral...

Tomas is certainly not playing up to his potential...Roger's matches are always late...I hate that.

[joeybee12]

136. Since Trumad is now a fan...it's only right we keep this kicked!!! nt

[TBF]

137. I think Roger's on break this month

but the clay tournament will be coming up here in Houston

[joeybee12]

138. He doesn't play again until Madrid...

I think most of the big players will start the clay season in Europe and not here...

[joeybee12]

139. Spoilers from today...

Rafroid had a tough time with Stanislaw, but won in 2 sets...glad Stan is playing better. Murray lost to Tomas, so much for ANYONE EVER THINKING MURRAY might break through...Jo-Willy lost to Gilles, which I think means Jo-Willy's decent 2011 was an aberration, and NOT a sign of better times ahead for him. Djoker was sloppy but won failry easily.

[TBF]

140. I haven't been watching at all -

waiting for Madrid ...

[joeybee12]

141. Not really paying attention myself...

Especially since I think a Djoker-Rafroid final is imminent

[joeybee12]

142. Spoiler...

Looked like Tomas might pull an upset...sort of glad Djoker won, because he'll beat Rafroid tomorrow. I don't think Tomas would have.

[TBF]

143. Agree -

I like the Djoker/Rafa rivalry. They are the same age and will fight many more out over the next several years. I never really saw Rafa as an equal to Roger. I know he's the king of clay and all that, but Roger kind of stands above as an all-around player, much like Pete Sampras. For the open era they are my top 2, even though I did get bored watching Pete sometimes.

[joeybee12]

144. Spoiler

Looks like Rafroid won easily...should be interesting tomorrow especially since Rafoid has been lying about his knees again.

[joeybee12]

145. Spoiler...

Murray lost to Milos Rancic in straight sets...Murray's time near the top is over...

[TBF]

146. I just don't think he's very good.

Next week - Madrid

[joeybee12]

148. Actually sometimes when he's on he seems to have a great natural talent

and a vey good touch...he just can't sustain that.

[TBF]

150. I guess I go back and forth on him -

he certainly has had a few wins against Roger. I guess he could maybe still win a major - it took Kim 5 years before she won and she was always so good.

[twogunsid]

147. The two true sports....

all the rest is just filler.

[TBF]

149. We have chess too.

[joeybee12]

151. Good Lord! Roger lost the first set, then squeaked out the second

against Milos...yeesh!

[TBF]

152. It's backwards week (spoiler)

Verdasco just beat Rafa!

However, Federer looks like he means to play today Just broke Gasquet in the first set ...

[joeybee12]

153. Last time I checked...

Rafroid was up 4-1 in the third, I think...what happened??????

[TBF]

154. Dunno -

wasn't watching this morning until I saw that headline. Apparently some sort of miraculous comeback in the third set. Now I am watching Federer and he's cruising.

[joeybee12]

155. Up 3-1 in the second...

I think yesterday was adjusting after being off and Milos was hitting ace after ace...you can only try and gut it out when that happens...

[TBF]

156. Also Milos is young and could really blossom in the next year or two

while Gasquet has been playing pro 10 years and is unlikely to get to that level in my view. Definitely an easier day for Roger today.

[joeybee12]

157. Close match now between Djoker and Stanislaw...nt

[TBF]

158. I was rooting for Stan! But alas the Djoker knocked him out ..

Federer being interviewed yesterday -

Ferrer today - will be a tough opponent.

[joeybee12]

159. Interesting day today...

Djoker lost...which considering how bad he's played of late, isn't a surprise...Roger plays Tipsarevic in one semi...surprised they had Roger and Djoker in the same half of the draw...two good semis, but not what was expected.

[TBF]

160. I watched both matches today - so exciting!

Roger has a chance to move up to #2 - he's gotta win!!

[joeybee12]

161. I read that...if he wins the tournament, he becomes #2..

Here's hoping!

I knew he was closing, but I thought it'd take a while...be interesting if Rafroid is down to #3 by the French!!!

[TBF]

162. Today I was out all day - but watching tomorrow

should be a good match!

[joeybee12]

163. Rome Spoilers!

Murray lost to Gasquet...I think we can wite off his career as "what might have been." Sam Stosur lost to Venus, which only means Sam is as up and down as the best of them. Roger needed 3 to beat Juan Carlos, although the 3rd set was 6-1...doesn't really surprise me...before Roger and Raf-roid came along, Juan Carlos dominated the clay tournaments, although he only has 1 French to his name.

[TBF]

164. Oh what a lovely 2 weeks ...

and Roger is still alive for tomorrow. He's never won Rome - it would be so exciting!

[joeybee12]

165. I hate that his match is the last one today...

I assume if Roger wins he'll stay at 2 because Rafroid and Djoker were in last year's final.

[joeybee12]

166. Today was easier than I thought it would be...

Djoker hasn't looked all that dominant, so tomorrow should be interesting!

[TBF]

167. I was only able to watch the first set but

Roger looked great! I think he has a good chance against Djoker tomorrow! I have to go check Tennis.com and see how the women are doing. I haven't watched them at all this week.

Good article here if you didn't see it about Roger's winning streak: http://blogs.tennis.com/tennisworld/2012/03/hes-getting-to-be-like-the-guy-whos-still-dancing-with-a-lampshade-on-his-head-and-crying-whoo-hooo-when-everyone-else-is-p.html

[joeybee12]

168. Spoiler...I'm bummed

Raonic lost in 5 to Monaco...who now faces Raf-roid. I was sure Raonic could be Raf-roid if his serve was on...I can't see anyone in that side of the draw beating him now that the peds are kicking in at the right time.

[tishaLA]

169. today's French Open is cray cray

First we see the women's #1 seed go down. While that's happening, Djoker is flailing, losing the first two sets. He's managed to pull out the third, but he's playing very unlike himself.

I suspect he may pull it out, but it's very strange to see two #1 seeds looking so shitty against relative unknowns.

[joeybee12]

170. Spoiler...

SHIT! Djoker won! Wanted Andreas to pull it out...he gave Roger a tough match in a recent tournament, I think it was Rome and not Madrid, so he's got a good clay game...oh well...looks like Roger is recovering...

[TBF]

171. ...

I was rooting for Andreas as well ...

and really enjoyed Roger's match although it took him awhile to warm up today.

Rafa's 26 ... that makes me feel old!

[joeybee12]

172. The two matches suspended are pretty good...

I'd like to see Stanislaw win, but I think Tsonga would give Djoker a better match...it's a toss-up as to who would play Roger better, Tomas of Juan-Martin.

[trusty elf]

173. Have you all seen this?

&feature=youtu.be

[TBF]

176. Done with the dirt - now to Halle!

Last edited Mon Jun 11, 2012, 03:20 PM - Edit history (1)

11.06.2012 | Tennis

After the end of the clay season it is finally time for the green surface! Especially with the Olympics coming up - on the holy lawn in Wimbledon - this year's grass season is certainly a highlight in Roger's career. He will compete in the Gerry Weber Open in Halle this week ...

http://www.rogerfederer.com/en/esp/news-detail/news/4019-gerry-weber-open-2012.html

And this - his own street!

[joeybee12]

177. This needs to be kicked because Wimbledon is happening!

The only thing that surprised me today was I thought Hewitt would give Tsonga a better match...didn't think he'd win, but I thought he'd do better than he did.

[TBF]

178. Federer plays someone named Fabio Fognini tomorrow -

never heard of him before!

[joeybee12]

179. Fabio has pulled a few fairly big upsets as of late...

Sort of knocks someone semi-big off early, but then doesn't get far in the tournament.

[joeybee12]

180. I just looked Fabio up...he lost 5-7 in the third to Roddick

in the quarters at AEGON...he made it to the final of another...he's decent, didn't look that way today, though.

[TBF]

181. I just caught the last set -

he was likely nervous with royalty there and all .. Roger was great.

[joeybee12]

182. Roger seemed to play his best at the end...

There is NO ONE left in his side in the draw until the semis...only Janko...and he's losing right now.

[TBF]

183. Wow (spoiler)

Wozniaki folds ... granted the new player is close to seeded and won her last tourney but still. What a match!

[joeybee12]

184. Folds is right...she doesn't have her head on straight at all anymore...

It was her match to lose...she could not focus...there was one point where she won a point and Chris noted that she was being aggressive, but she could have taken the ball a second or two sooner...Caroline was always a smart focused player, never had the strongest game, but she was so focused she would gut it out...that's gone now.

[TBF]

185. Spoiler with dancing bananas :)

Nadal stunned by world No. 100 Rosol

Like Robin Soderling at the '09 French Open, Lukas Rosol hit big, served bigger—and beat Rafael Nadal in a shocking upset. It's Rafa's earliest Wimbledon loss since 2005. 6-7, 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4



http://www.tennis.com/

[joeybee12]

186. Once they took the delay to close the roof, it was over...

Rafroid lost it because it was a change to the match he had to deal with, and he doesn't do change well.

[TBF]

187. Sadly I completely missed it -

was out doing my grocery shopping today so I would be home for Federer tomorrow

[joeybee12]

188. I missed most, also...

It was 6-6 in the first and I was hopeful, then Rafroid won the tiebreaker and I figured it was nice while it lasted...then I saw the 4th and some of the fifth...missed the ending...Rafroid really has a mental game and when he loses it, he can't get the focus back.

[joeybee12]

189. Just watched the last set on ESPN3...

Lukas was serving like blazes, but even when there was any sort of rally, he was hitting his shots so hard Rafroid couldn't handle it...and, of course, Rafroid was a jerk after.

[TBF]

190. Is anyone watching? =) nt

[tishaLA]

191. hell yes

that third set has some of the best tennis ive ever seen

[TBF]

193. I'm going to have to re-watch that set later -

I had to drop my son at camp so I missed that one (but saw the first two). Roger is serving great today!

[RockaFowler]

192. Yes

Choker is going down

[TBF]

194. ...

going to the Final - YES!!!!!

[joeybee12]

195. Please, please, please win...

TIes Sampras with 7, will go ahead with weeks at number 1.

[joeybee12]

196. Have to kick this because history was made today!!!

[TBF]

197. Here is our photo for posterity:

7th Wimbledon title to tie Pete
17th Major
Back to #1 ranking - and all just before his 31st birthday coming up in Aug (same day as my bd - you can imagine how much I love that!)

[joeybee12]

198. Happy Birthday to you both!

[joeybee12]

199. Federer Tops Sampras for Most Weeks at #1

LONDON -- Roger Federer has surpassed Pete Sampras to set the record for the most weeks at No. 1 in the ATP rankings.

After winning Wimbledon a week ago, Federer returned to the top for the first time since June 2010, and his 287th week at No. 1 -- one more than Sampras.

The 17-time Grand Slam champion says he is "extremely proud and honored to have beaten Pete's record as he was my childhood hero and I have always looked up to him."

The Swiss star will enter the Olympics next week as the world's top-ranked player.

http://espn.go.com/tennis/story/_/id/8170048/roger-federer-passes-pete-sampras-most-weeks-no-1

[TBF]

200. Next the Olympic Gold -

I hope he wants that as bad as he wanted to be #1 again.

[joeybee12]

201. I think it was Pam Shriver who asked him in the spring, out of all his goals..

Which did he want to accomplish this year, he said Olympic gold...because it's only once every 4 years...here's hoping!

[TBF]

202. Jon Wertheim: Olympic tennis preview

Jon Wertheim

Olympic tennis preview

Story Highlights:

After dominant Wimbledon runs, Roger Federer and Serena Williams are favorites

SI.com's writers will preview each event from the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. Here, Jon Wertheim looks ahead to tennis.


Each year in tennis, they hold four major events. But, damn the calendar, there is a fifth in 2012. Poll the players in the men's and women's locker rooms and a good number of them will admit that winning an Olympic gold medal would mean every bit as much as winning hardware at Wimbledon or the Australian, French and U.S. Opens.

Part of this is simply the gravitas of the Olympics. Some of this is the overlay of competing for your country in what is otherwise such a fiercely individual, necessarily self-absorbed sport. Some of this is the make-up of the field: Tennis has become such a relentlessly global sport and for many players, they represent their country's best chances at gold. There is, for instance, no Kevin Durant or Michael Phelps in Serbia; thus a country's hopes rest largely on Novak Djokovic's wiry shoulders.

This year, though, the prestige of the Olympic tennis event gets an extra bump from the venue. They'll hold the competition on the lawns of the All England Club, the same hallowed -- hollowed if you're Brad Gilbert -- ground where they hold Wimbledon.

Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/olympics/2012/writers/jon_wertheim/07/20/london-olympic-tennis-preview/index.html#ixzz21OzvdTsq

[joeybee12]

203. I think Rafroid being out helps Roger's state of mind...

Raf-roid really has a psychological edge over him, and that barrier is now removed...I'm assuming it's a Federer-Djoker final...I'm just curious as to who gets Murray in their side of the draw. Also, best of 3 until the final which could mean more upsets if some top player begins a match slowly.

[joeybee12]

204. Roger is seeded #1 for the Olympics, Djoker #2, Murray #3, Tsonga #4

And so on...exactly according to the current ATP rankings. Can't find anything about the brackets, though, as to who gets who in the semis. Same for the women, seeded according to current WTA rankings.

[joeybee12]

205. Looks like Djoker faces Murray and Roger faces Tsonga IF

They all make it through to the semis...but I don't think that will happen...I'm thinking LOTS of upsets.

[joeybee12]

206. I was wrong...Ferrer is #4 and Tsonga 5...

Still haven't found a full bracket...

[TBF]

207. Messy but here it is -

http://www.stevegtennis.com/2012/07/olympic-tennis-mens-draw-wimbledon/

[joeybee12]

208. Messy indeed!

Looks like Roger could meet Juan Martin in the quarters...yikes!

[tishaLA]

209. Donald freaking Young is on the US Olympic team?

christ. That's just pathetic.

[joeybee12]

210. And SLoane Stephens isn't...

Yeah, I know, different sex, but why wouldn't Sam Querry be ahead of Young?

[joeybee12]

211. I had to kick this because there's been too much talk about non-essential sports

like baseball and football, and we've lost sight of the true purpose of the Sports Group!

[TBF]

212. As of 6 hours ago Federer is still #1 in the rankings

With no movement in the leading 10, Federer stays on 11,805 points, ahead of Serbia's Novak Djokovic and Britain's Andy Murray.

The latest ATP top 10 as of Sept. 24 with the previous ranking in parenthesis:

1. (1) Roger Federer, Switzerland, 11,805 points 2. (2) Novak Djokovic, Serbia, 10,470 3. (3) And y Murray, Britain, 8,570 4. (4) Rafael Nadal, Spain, 7,385 5. (5) David Ferrer, Spain, 5,960 6. (6) Tomas Berdych, Czech Republic, 4,965 7. (7) Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, France, 4,520 8. (8) Juan Martin del Potro, Argentina, 3,850 9. (9) Janko Tipsarevic, Serbia, 3,285 10. (10) John Isner, United States, 2,610.

http://www.businessdayonline.com/NG/index.php/sport-reel/44900-federer-retains-lead-in-mens-tennis-rankings


Life is good.

[joeybee12]

213. Andy is very far back...

I think he bowed out very early in the French, if memory serves me correctly.

Shocked Isner is still in the top 10...his time seems to have come and gone.

[TBF]

214. Roger still #1 this week and looking like he will play Shanghai -

http://www.atpworldtour.com/Rankings/Singles.aspx

Isner finally dropped out of top 10 - I don't think he belongs there either.

[joeybee12]

215. Unfortunately Murray is doing well in Japan...

And Djoker is doing well in China. Or vice versa, I'm not sure.

[TBF]

216. Hopefully they will be tired next week :) nt

[joeybee12]

217. Yes!

[joeybee12]

218. Roger is through to the quarters, so he stays #1 for now...

[Berlum]

219. .

[joeybee12]

220. Top 4 seeds through to semis in Shanghai Masters

Roger gets Murray, which doesn't seem fair since he's still #1, although Tomas is playing well so he migh take out Djoker in the other semi...here's hoping!

[TBF]

221. 300 weeks at #1!

Roger Federer: 300 Weeks At No. 1 Is Pretty Incredible, Probably One Of My Biggest Accomplisments
by Tom Gainey

Add another record to Roger Federer’s list of achievements. Earlier today the Swiss maestro beat his countryman Stanislas Wawrinka to reach the quarterfinals at the Shanghai Rolex Masters. The win assured Federer of a 300th week at No. 1 starting next week, a milestone Federer holds in very high regard among his many, many marks.

“I never thought of something like this when I was a little kid, that’s for sure,” said Federer after the win. “I was just hoping one day my dream was going to come true to play on the regular tour, play Wimbledon, maybe become World No. 1 at some stage. So here I am at 300 weeks. It’s pretty incredible. Probably one of my biggest accomplishments. I’m very proud of that record, no doubt about it.” ...

http://www.tennis-x.com/xblog/2012-10-11/10803.php

[joeybee12]

222. Roger squeaked by today at Basel, while Isner lost in the 2nd round

at Valencia to a nobody...hmm...any Americans out there in their early teens we might HOPE could be our next decent player? Sure as heck ain't the guys playing now.

[TBF]

223. Goffin beat Isner - he was that kid that grew up idolizing Roger

and got to play him this year. Maybe it was at the French? Ugh, can't remember. Anyway, Roger was really nice to him. He's like a foot shorter than Isner.

[TBF]

224. Today also marks the retirement of Juan Carlos Ferrero -

we will miss you Juan Carlos!




Juan Carlos Ferrero played the last singles match of his career Tuesday, losing to friend Nicolas Almagro at the Valencia Open with the scoreline 7-5, 6-3.

Ferrero, best known for his lone Grand Slam title at the 2003 French Open, decided to end his 14-year career at a tournament close to where he resides.

In a way, it was a full circle for Ferrero, ending where his career took off, winning his first ATP title in 1999 as a teenager, back when the tournament was on clay.

He explained, after his match, that he felt it was time to hang up his tennis racquet (via ATP World Tour) ...

More here -- http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1383094-mens-tennis-former-world-no-1-retires

[TBF]

225. Boo!

Ugh - must prepare myself for Roger's retirement. 2013 will be year #15 ...


Djokovic To Finish No. 1 In South African Airways ATP Rankings For 2nd Straight Year
London, U.K. by Press Release
22.10.2012

Novak Djokovic has clinched the year-end No. 1 South African Airways ATP Ranking, becoming the first player to accomplish the feat in consecutive seasons since Roger Federer achieved four straight World No. 1 finishes from 2004-07.

Djokovic, who lost the World No. 1 ranking to the Swiss on 9 July following a 53-week reign, will reclaim the top spot on 5 November when Federer drops his points from his 2011 title wins at the Swiss Indoors Basel, BNP Paribas Masters and Barclays ATP World Tour Finals. Federer will then not be able to earn enough South African Airways ATP Rankings points to finish the year ahead of Djokovic ...

http://www.atpworldtour.com/News/Tennis/2012/11/Features/Djokovic-To-Finish-Year-End-World-No-1.aspx

[joeybee12]

226. Shit...

Yeah, too bad, since Roger won more tournaments...makes me wish Andy had beaten Djoker at Singapore.

[El Supremo]

227. I didn't know that Manti Te'o skates or plays tennis.

[joeybee12]

228. He does...tennis with his girlfriend Chriise Evert...and skating with his girlfriend..

Michelle Kwan!

[El Supremo]

229. I thought his girlfriend was Tonya Harding. Was that a hoax too?

[NCTraveler]

230. Your dream is here.

[joeybee12]

232. Woo-hoo! Fantastic!

[TBF]

231. Roger in the sweet 16 -

not bad. Roanic is next opponent. Only 14 tournaments this year so I've been trying to catch every match.

Watching Wawrinka give it his all right now - go Stan - don't give up!

[joeybee12]

233. Now the quarters...poor Stan...

Let's just hope this tired Djoker out.

[TBF]

234. I'm watching Azarenka right now -

hoping they will broadcast the Sloane Stephens match as well. I've been waiting for her to break through. She's not as tall as the Russian ladies but she's good player.

[joeybee12]

235. Got to the gym just as theyw ere showing highlights of Roger-Tsonga...

I didn't know who won...close! Let's hope this is Roger's year to get another Slam!

Glad Serena is out...I think Maria will win it all.

[TBF]

236. Yes, I see Maria winning this too but I'm very happy for Sloane

I just watched the Tsonga-Federer match.

[joeybee12]

237. I'll have to see if I can find it online...

I always like seeing Roger plays...especially when I know the outcome!

[TBF]

239. roger/andy tonight -

I can't find what time but I guess it will be late.

I didn't see Sloane's match against Azarenka either but I sure have seen the aftermath. The sports writers are not happy about her "injury" time out ... As much as I like Sloane she really didn't have much of a chance against a player like that, so to see that kind of behavior really lowers my opinion of Azarenka.

I am so sick of Djoker flailing about tearing his clothes off ...

[joeybee12]

240. Thing about Azarneka she was serving for the match, blew 5 match points, lost the

game and so they were back on serve with her at 5-4...it was at this point she faked the injury...yeah, my estimation of her has nosedived.

I agree about Dick-ovic...what a tool.

[joeybee12]

241. Kicking, because we seem to have lost our way at this Emporium!

[TBF]

242. Reliving Roger's first day as #1 (2004)

9 years of fabulous tennis!

February 2, 2004 ...



I'm not giving up on him, but I suspect Wimbledon is the tournament where he can really challenge. I hope he's busy practicing in Dubai ...

[joeybee12]

243. Hooray!

Hope he gets a few more weeks at #1 also!

[TBF]

244. Rotterdam -

Gulbis qualified ... looks like Fed and DelPo are the only top guys there. Hopefully Roger can win this one!

[joeybee12]

245. Thanks for the update...

I hope he has a good 2013!

[TBF]

246. Matches today -

DelPo won - Fed plays tomorrow

[joeybee12]

247. Thanks!

[TBF]

248. 6-3, 6-1 today

piece of cake!

[joeybee12]

249. I was just about to post that...

Pretty easy, although the first time I checked it was 2-2 in the first set!

[TBF]

250. Dubai starts tomorrow -

http://www.dubaidutyfreetennischampionships.com/News/Tennis/2013/ATP-Tournament/ATP-Draw-Announced.aspx

[marmar]

251. I watched Petra Kvitova against Wozniacki (SF) and Errani (F) in the Dubai women's event.....

..... which just ended.

Kvitova is such an enigma. When's she's on, she literally blows people off the court. But she seems to take a set off mentally in just about every match she plays.

[TBF]

252. Marat Safin was like that -

loved watching him when he focused, but that seemed to be the biggest hurdle for him. I think it helps that she is 6' and lefty.

[joeybee12]

253. Today's Dubai Spoilres

Roger won, setting up a meeting with Tomas, and Djoker and Juan Martin face off in the other semi...all top four seeds are into the semis.

[TBF]

254. Indian Wells -

Everyone is playing: http://www.bnpparibasopen.com/Players/Player-Landing.aspx

(they'll release the draws tomorrow)

[joeybee12]

255. Dubai sucks...

I don't even know who won the final. This eyar is going to suck for Roger...he doesn't have it mentally.

[TBF]

256. I know.

I'd still like to see him win Wimbledon one more time - maybe he has it in him to try for that? Eighteen majors would be a nice even number to end on. I know he is ready to retire. I don't know if he knows it yet, but I can sure see it. He's had a fabulous run and we've got old matches to watch for years. Still sad though.

[TBF]

257. Indian Wells QF's tonight -

Federer Survives Wawrinka, Sets Blockbuster Nadal QF
Indian Wells, U.S.A.
by Staff
13.03.2013

World No. 2 Roger Federer set a blockbuster quarterfinal clash with Rafael Nadal at the BNP Paribas Open after both survived pulsating fourth-round tussles on Wednesday night, in what was one of the greatest days in tournament history at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.

It will be their first meeting for 12 months, since Federer beat the Spaniard in straight sets in the semifinals in Indian Wells. The 26-year-old Nadal leads their career series 18-10. Both are bidding to win a record-breaking 22nd ATP World Tour Masters 1000 crown this week.

Federer prevailed in a gripping tussle with Swiss countryman Stanislas Wawrinka, winning 6-3, 6-7(4), 7-5 in two hours and 20 minutes. Federer served for the match at 5-4 in the second set, but was broken to love as Wawrinka staged a spirited fightback. Wawrinka led 2-1 with a break in the third set, but could not consolidate and Federer ultimately got the decisive break in the 12th game.

"Today it was extremely close again. Okay, I should [have] maybe closed it out in the second set, but he did well to stay in it," Federer said. "At the end, I don't know what [got] me through. Maybe it's the experience or maybe [I was] a bit more calm in those moments. I'm not sure. Today I think I was a little lucky to come through it in the end."

http://www.bnpparibasopen.com/News/Tennis/2013/Tournament/ATP-Wednesday2-Federer-Nadal.aspx

[joeybee12]

258. Go Roger!

If he keeps focus, he'll win...but he's iffy these days.

[TBF]

259. Definitely -

he has a chance on grass but the other guys are just too confident now and he is winding down.

[marmar]

260. And he knows that.....

He's taking 2 months off to re-emerge for Madrid, Rome & Paris......but really I think he's focused on SW19.

[TBF]

261. I'm amazed at the career he's had and how well he's done at

avoiding injury until now. Just feeling sorry for myself that I won't see him compete again until April!

[TBF]

262. Silver lining at Indian Wells -

BNP PARIBAS OPEN 2013
Del Potro Rallies To End Djokovic's Streak
Indian Wells, U.S.A

http://www.atpworldtour.com/News/Tennis/2013/03/11/Indian-Wells-Saturday2-Del-Potro-Rallies-To-Stun-Djokovic.aspx

[marmar]

263. I actually like Djoker.....

..... I think DelPo has a good chance to beat Rafa on the Indian Wells surface.

[marmar]

264. Rafa is back with a vengeance.....Great match with DelPo.

[TBF]

265. Happy 32nd Birthday

to my fabulous birthday twin!!!



8-8-81

[joeybee12]

266. Thanks for finding this...

I tried to find it and kick it back to the top, but couldn't locate it! Happy Birthday!!!

[TBF]

267. Happy birthday Guga -

we love you and miss you! You were an amazing player. The original king of clay

From wiki -

Gustavo Kuerten (Portuguese pronunciation: [ɡusˈtavu ˈkiɾtẽ]; born September 10, 1976) is a retired former World No. 1 tennis player from Brazil. He won the French Open three times (1997, 2000, and 2001), and was the Tennis Masters Cup champion in 2000, becoming the only player to defeat Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi in the same major tournament.

Kuerten suffered many problems with injuries which led him to miss a number of tournaments between 2002 and 2005. After a few failed attempts of comebacks, he retired from top-level tennis in May 2008.

Kuerten is also known as "Guga" (pronounced: [ˈɡuɡɐ]), an affectionate nickname which is a common abbreviation of the name "Gustavo" in Portuguese-speaking countries. He is a polyglot who speaks fluent Portuguese, Spanish, English, and French.

[joeybee12]

268. Best on clay without steroids...

Wink, wink.

[TBF]

269. IKR ...

Guga was the real king. I loved how he always gave his younger brother with cerebral palsy his trophies to hold

[joeybee12]

270. I had to edit to note "without" steroids...

I had put "with"

[TBF]

271. I knew what you meant -

we've talked about it many times