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Non GAA Discussion => General discussion => Topic started by: Doogie Browser on January 26, 2010, 11:25:28 AM

Title: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Doogie Browser on January 26, 2010, 11:25:28 AM
Not sure if we have one or not as the search function is not working!

Anyway, Murray is two sets to love up against Nadal in the last 8 and Nadal looks in trouble with a knee injury.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 26, 2010, 11:27:25 AM
Stuck a few quid on Murray this mornin to beat Nadal at 5/6. Nadal is a shell of the player he was a couple of years ago.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: take_yer_points on January 26, 2010, 11:38:28 AM
Nadal just quit when 3-0 down in the third set (and 2-0 down in sets).

He had the physio out a few games before he retired but he didn't look that bad - very surprising.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Doogie Browser on January 26, 2010, 11:40:19 AM
Quote from: Minder on January 26, 2010, 11:27:25 AM
Stuck a few quid on Murray this mornin to beat Nadal at 5/6. Nadal is a shell of the player he was a couple of years ago.
Will bookies pay out because of a retirement?  ;)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 26, 2010, 11:48:14 AM
Quote from: Doogie Browser on January 26, 2010, 11:40:19 AM
Quote from: Minder on January 26, 2010, 11:27:25 AM
Stuck a few quid on Murray this mornin to beat Nadal at 5/6. Nadal is a shell of the player he was a couple of years ago.
Will bookies pay out because of a retirement?  ;)

They fuckin better. Aye I think they do.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 26, 2010, 11:54:45 AM
Aye they paid out in full.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Denn Forever on January 26, 2010, 12:12:00 PM
Semi should be interestiing.

His comments about not supporting England will  be forgotten if he gets to the final.  Did Henman get to a grand slam final?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 26, 2010, 12:16:06 PM
Quote from: Denn Forever on January 26, 2010, 12:12:00 PM
Semi should be interestiing.

His comments about not supporting England will  be forgotten if he gets to the final.  Did Henman get to a grand slam final?

No but Rusedski got to the US Open final in '97ish but lost to Rafter. Federer is looking strong though.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Denn Forever on January 26, 2010, 12:18:50 PM
Quote from: Minder on January 26, 2010, 12:16:06 PM
Quote from: Denn Forever on January 26, 2010, 12:12:00 PM
Semi should be interestiing.

His comments about not supporting England will  be forgotten if he gets to the final.  Did Henman get to a grand slam final?

No but Rusedski got to the US Open final in '97ish but lost to Rafter. Federer is looking strong though.
Hard to look past Federer for the final.  If Murray get through, would he be worth a punt for the final?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 26, 2010, 12:25:29 PM
Quote from: Denn Forever on January 26, 2010, 12:18:50 PM
Quote from: Minder on January 26, 2010, 12:16:06 PM
Quote from: Denn Forever on January 26, 2010, 12:12:00 PM
Semi should be interestiing.

His comments about not supporting England will  be forgotten if he gets to the final.  Did Henman get to a grand slam final?

No but Rusedski got to the US Open final in '97ish but lost to Rafter. Federer is looking strong though.
Hard to look past Federer for the final.  If Murray get through, would he be worth a punt for the final?

He would be worth a punt alright. Don't think he will beat Federer though.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Denn Forever on January 26, 2010, 12:35:53 PM
Has he not beaten Federer before? 

Don't know what the standard of the tournament was but was listening to his post match banter with Courier and he seemed very relaxed.

Was surprised when Courier asked what the Bath in ice water after a game was about. 
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 26, 2010, 12:37:25 PM
Quote from: Denn Forever on January 26, 2010, 12:35:53 PM
Has he not beaten Federer before? 

Don't know what the standard of the tournament was but was listening to his post match banter with Courier and he seemed very relaxed.

Was surprised when Courier asked what the Bath in ice water after a game was about.

He has never beaten him in a Grand Slam before. He has beaten him before in tour events.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on January 26, 2010, 01:16:53 PM
Murray won't beat Federer in the final if they meet.  I feel bad for Nadal as he has been struggling since he came back from injury, seems to have lost some muscle aswell. 
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: HowAreYeGettinOn on January 26, 2010, 03:01:35 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on January 26, 2010, 01:16:53 PM
I feel bad for Nadal as he has been struggling since he came back from injury, seems to have lost some muscle aswell.

Nadal's game relies so much on physical intensity that it has to take its toll eventually. He's now lost a full grand-slam year to the effects of the tendinitis in his knees. I'd imagine he has shed some upper-body muscle to try and lessen the impact of all those five-set marathons on his joints. But that shedding of muscle takes away from his game too.

At the risk of sounding overly pessimistic, I doubt that he'll ever be the player he was. This time last year he had Federer in a psychological headlock.

Now that Fed has completed the Grand Slam set by winning the French, as well as achieving the record 15 Grand Slam titles, his place in history is assured. It'll be fascinating to see what happens when they next meet in a Grand Slam tournament.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: down6061689194 on January 26, 2010, 06:27:29 PM
Quote from: Denn Forever on January 26, 2010, 12:12:00 PM
His comments about not supporting England will  be forgotten if he gets to the final. 

They  were blown out of proportion anyway. It's like asking a United fan if they want city to win.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: magickingdom on January 26, 2010, 06:47:45 PM
Quote from: down6061689194 on January 26, 2010, 06:27:29 PM
Quote from: Denn Forever on January 26, 2010, 12:12:00 PM
His comments about not supporting England will  be forgotten if he gets to the final. 

They  were blown out of proportion anyway. It's like asking a United fan if they want city to win.

what did he say?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on January 26, 2010, 10:10:28 PM
http://www.andymurrayometer.com/ (http://www.andymurrayometer.com/)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Doogie Browser on January 28, 2010, 11:44:57 AM
Sweet play by Murray, he is bound to make a mint reaching the final.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Denn Forever on January 28, 2010, 11:48:20 AM
Murray through to final.

Murray 3-6 6-4 6-4 6-2 Cilic
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Dakota on January 28, 2010, 01:41:21 PM
I'm guessing Murray is British now that he has got to the final, he will be Scottish again if he loses
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on June 01, 2010, 06:52:56 PM
Soderling does it all over again at Roland Garros and dumps out Federer this time - first time he's ever beaten him. Whatever small chance there was of Nadal not winning it looks to have evaporated.

Also the first time Federer hasn't made the semis of a grand slam in something like six years.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: stew on June 01, 2010, 07:17:21 PM
Quote from: gallsman on June 01, 2010, 06:52:56 PM
Soderling does it all over again at Roland Garros and dumps out Federer this time - first time he's ever beaten him. Whatever small chance there was of Nadal not winning it looks to have evaporated.

Also the first time Federer hasn't made the semis of a grand slam in something like six years.

He's amazing but you have to wonder how he can keep this up, he has a tremendous amount of miles on the clock and I wonder if you will start to see him slip in the next year or so, that said he will probably win wimbledon, his favourite surface but his days of winning the ozzie and the french may well be over.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on June 01, 2010, 07:19:41 PM
Quote from: stew on June 01, 2010, 07:17:21 PM
Quote from: gallsman on June 01, 2010, 06:52:56 PM
Soderling does it all over again at Roland Garros and dumps out Federer this time - first time he's ever beaten him. Whatever small chance there was of Nadal not winning it looks to have evaporated.

Also the first time Federer hasn't made the semis of a grand slam in something like six years.

He's amazing but you have to wonder how he can keep this up, he has a tremendous amount of miles on the clock and I wonder if you will start to see him slip in the next year or so, that said he will probably win wimbledon, his favourite surface but his days of winning the ozzie and the french may well be over.

Presume you mean Fed and not Nadal? Didn't realise he had "days" of winning the French, rather just the "day" in a year that Nadal was injured and beaten by Soderling.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on September 15, 2010, 10:33:26 AM
Surprised there's been no mention of Nadal winning the US Open and completing his career grand slam. First man to win three Grand Slams on different surfaces in the one year. The way he continues to improve and adapt his game is fantastic.

Somehow Federer's haul of 16 grand slams looks distinctly achievable.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: HowAreYeGettinOn on September 15, 2010, 12:01:10 PM
Quote from: gallsman on September 15, 2010, 10:33:26 AM
Somehow Federer's haul of 16 grand slams looks distinctly achievable.

It does right now, but it'll be easier said than done. I reckon Fed isn't done winning majors yet either - before Nadal's comback in Paris, Fed had won three of the previous four and lost to Del Potro in the final of the '09 US Open.

Reckon Fed will get to 17 or 18 at the finish-up. But I think if Nadal's knees hold up, he could be the first man to reach 20. Especially as there doesn't seem to be anyone in the younger ranks that looks like they have the potential to 'succeed' him as the best in the world in the same way he succeeded Federer.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Family guy on November 27, 2010, 04:58:56 PM
Watchn nadal murray here and hafta say its the best sport i have watched all day
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Declan on January 21, 2011, 10:56:53 AM
Great interview with Clijsters from yesterday in Melbourne
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfIbH7ssv5Q (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfIbH7ssv5Q)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Dinny Breen on January 21, 2011, 12:20:35 PM
Just finished Andre Agassi's auto-biography, a fantastic read a good insight into the mind of a professional tennis player.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Doogie Browser on January 26, 2011, 09:33:31 AM
Murray through and Nadal struglging with illness/injury in his match currently.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/tennis/9373831.stm
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Doogie Browser on January 26, 2011, 12:32:25 PM
Nadal out, the Rafa slam is over!  Murray v Ferrer for a place on the final.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: SLIGONIAN on January 26, 2011, 01:33:57 PM
Come on Murray... hope the scot wins his first slam, and he will never have a better chance with alot easier opponent in semi final than fully fit Nadal so should have more in the tank than the other semi as they will take alot out of each other.

Djorkovic and Federer will be some semi final match. Expect a 5 setter.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: thebigfella on January 26, 2011, 01:36:57 PM
Anyone notice that Nadal only gets beat because he has an injury, not that the other player was better on the day?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Doogie Browser on January 28, 2011, 12:31:35 PM
Murray wins in 4 sets and plays Djokovic in the final.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: anportmorforjfc on January 28, 2011, 12:45:27 PM
Quote from: Doogie Browser on January 28, 2011, 12:31:35 PM
Murray wins in 4 sets and plays Djokovic in the final.

Hopefully Djokovic hammers him!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 28, 2011, 12:56:12 PM
Quote from: anportmorforjfc on January 28, 2011, 12:45:27 PM
Quote from: Doogie Browser on January 28, 2011, 12:31:35 PM
Murray wins in 4 sets and plays Djokovic in the final.

Hopefully Djokovic hammers him!

He will have his work cut out against Djokovic.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: BennyHarp on January 28, 2011, 12:58:59 PM
Quote from: anportmorforjfc on January 28, 2011, 12:45:27 PM
Quote from: Doogie Browser on January 28, 2011, 12:31:35 PM
Murray wins in 4 sets and plays Djokovic in the final.

Hopefully Djokovic hammers him!

I dont mind Murray - I'd like to see him win it, he has put alot of work into his game to improve his fitness  and strength and been there or there abouts for a while now. I certainly wouldnt begrudge him a grand slam title.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on January 28, 2011, 01:46:01 PM
Quote from: thebigfella on January 26, 2011, 01:36:57 PM
Anyone notice that Nadal only gets beat because he has an injury, not that the other player was better on the day?

I notice that every time Nadal does lose that there is some sort of injury to blame, sore loser.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 28, 2011, 02:13:32 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on January 28, 2011, 01:46:01 PM
Quote from: thebigfella on January 26, 2011, 01:36:57 PM
Anyone notice that Nadal only gets beat because he has an injury, not that the other player was better on the day?

I notice that every time Nadal does lose that there is some sort of injury to blame, sore loser.
Did he not hurt his leg in the third game? It's not as if got tanked and then said he was injured. He has also had a lot of injuries, due to the style of his play.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Doogie Browser on January 28, 2011, 02:31:01 PM
Nadal was under P from the start of the first set so it was not him 'blaming injuries' as some have said. 
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: anportmorforjfc on January 28, 2011, 02:32:30 PM
Quote from: Minder on January 28, 2011, 02:13:32 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on January 28, 2011, 01:46:01 PM
Quote from: thebigfella on January 26, 2011, 01:36:57 PM
Anyone notice that Nadal only gets beat because he has an injury, not that the other player was better on the day?

I notice that every time Nadal does lose that there is some sort of injury to blame, sore loser.
Did he not hurt his leg in the third game? It's not as if got tanked and then said he was injured. He has also had a lot of injuries, due to the style of his play.

Yep he did and had an injury time out in the 1st few games. Exactly its not like he was 2 sets down before the injury happened!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: anportmorforjfc on January 28, 2011, 02:42:23 PM
Murray SPOTY already if he wins sunday?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 28, 2011, 03:22:13 PM
Quote from: anportmorforjfc on January 28, 2011, 02:42:23 PM
Murray SPOTY already if he wins sunday?

That's what I was thinking. I wonder would you get a price for it before the final?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: HowAreYeGettinOn on January 28, 2011, 03:23:40 PM
It's now or never for Murray. No Federer or Nadal on the other side of the yet, and he has gone through all the razzmatazz of an Australian Open final already last year.

Djokovic is playing very well, and must be close to overtaking Federer as no. 2 in the world, having now beaten him twice in succession in Grand Slam semi-finals. But really, if you'd offered Murray a place in the final against Djokovic, he'd have bitten your hand off. He couldn't ask for a better opportunity.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on January 28, 2011, 03:33:40 PM
Quote from: Minder on January 28, 2011, 02:13:32 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on January 28, 2011, 01:46:01 PM
Quote from: thebigfella on January 26, 2011, 01:36:57 PM
Anyone notice that Nadal only gets beat because he has an injury, not that the other player was better on the day?

I notice that every time Nadal does lose that there is some sort of injury to blame, sore loser.
Did he not hurt his leg in the third game? It's not as if got tanked and then said he was injured. He has also had a lot of injuries, due to the style of his play.

'Style of his play'?  He isn't running about taking hits while going for the ball, he is using the same methods as every other player during a game - he serves, chases the ball, returns, volleys, smashes and hits forehands and backhands.  He is not the greatest tennis player of all time, he is beatable yet anytime he does get beat it seems to never be because he was beat by the better man but because of some injury.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 28, 2011, 03:36:02 PM
Did you not read the above posts Nrico? He pulled a muscle in the third game and had an injury timeout in the first set.

Read the article below about his "style of play".

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/08/29/AR2009082902120.html
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: BennyHarp on January 30, 2011, 10:04:43 AM
Quote from: anportmorforjfc on January 28, 2011, 12:45:27 PM
Quote from: Doogie Browser on January 28, 2011, 12:31:35 PM
Murray wins in 4 sets and plays Djokovic in the final.

Hopefully Djokovic hammers him!

Looks like you will get your wish! 5-0 down in 2nd set and a set down!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 30, 2011, 11:23:10 AM
Muzz stuffed in straight sets in the final, as usual.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: orangeman on January 30, 2011, 11:28:08 AM
Quote from: Minder on January 30, 2011, 11:23:10 AM
Muzz stuffed in straight sets in the final, as usual.


Back to being SCOTTISH then !  ;)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: under the bar on January 30, 2011, 11:31:33 AM
Thon mother of his would get on your wick! 
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 30, 2011, 11:34:06 AM
First player to get to three Grand Slam finals and not win a set.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: SLIGONIAN on January 30, 2011, 12:24:25 PM
Disappointed for Murray but some consolation in Djorkovic winning as he would be a close second to Murray in my favs. Glad to see Nadal and Federer out of the reckoning in this tournament long may it continue.

Djorkovic was in control today, and his defence was unreal from the baseline, looked fav for every point in the long rallies. Murrays first serve was getting in enough. It gave djorkovic the advantage to be more aggressive.

Hard to see murray coming back from this, hasnt even won a set in his 3 finals, and didnt come close today. Only 23 but US open is only realisitic chance this yr as hardcourt is his best surface, too much pressure at wimbledon so its hard to see it happening.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Dinny Breen on January 30, 2011, 10:01:49 PM
Andy Murray - British to Scottish in three sets
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on January 31, 2011, 08:52:12 AM
Murray never got going yesterday, first server was poor and made far too many unforced errors.  Djokovic played well, but you just get the feeling that Murray throws the towel in mentally when he isn't on top form.  His whole body language and attitude yesterday in the third set was not something you would see from the top players in a similar scenario.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on June 03, 2011, 10:55:46 PM
Muzz played rightly today but beaten in straight sets, I honestly dont think he will win a Grand Slam. He is the same age as Nadal and Djokovic is only a year older I think. Great match between him and Federer in the other semi.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Doogie Browser on January 26, 2012, 11:12:28 AM
Another Fed/Nadal classic in the making down under, 1 set each currently.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Doogie Browser on January 26, 2012, 12:27:52 PM
Federer must really hate Nadal!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AQMP on January 27, 2012, 11:12:08 AM
Get ready to avoid the media.  British (for the moment) Murray Djokovic 1 set all, Murray has just broken in the third.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 27, 2012, 11:29:38 AM
Quote from: AQMP on January 27, 2012, 11:12:08 AM
Get ready to avoid the media.  British (for the moment) Murray Djokovic 1 set all, Murray has just broken in the third.

Back on serve, for now, dont mind Murray and if he beats Djokovic & Nadal you can't say he didn't earn it.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: screenexile on January 27, 2012, 11:50:16 AM
Don't like Murray at all. All this talk of "The Big Four" nonsense. There is no big four . . . it is a big 3! Murray does not get into that group until he wins one. He is behind the other 3 by a good bit when they are on their game. However if Djokovic and Nadal have bad days he has a slight chance of beating them.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Doogie Browser on January 27, 2012, 11:52:39 AM
Quote from: screenexile on January 27, 2012, 11:50:16 AM
Don't like Murray at all. All this talk of "The Big Four" nonsense. There is no big four . . . it is a big 3! Murray does not get into that group until he wins one. He is behind the other 3 by a good bit when they are on their game. However if Djokovic and Nadal have bad days he has a slight chance of beating them.


Not entirely true in fairness.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Doogie Browser on January 27, 2012, 11:56:04 AM
He just shit the togs serving for the set!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Doogie Browser on January 27, 2012, 12:07:57 PM
2-1 Murray!

Djockivic 11/8 & Murray 4/7
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ballinaman on January 27, 2012, 12:10:09 PM
Take a bow son!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjyfMCTAqKU
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 27, 2012, 12:21:52 PM
Nadal will be enjoying this, especially if it goes to five sets.

Edit - Djokovic 4-0 up so looking like five sets.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Doogie Browser on January 27, 2012, 12:23:47 PM
Took Djokovic at Evs at start of 4th set when he broke first.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 27, 2012, 12:24:36 PM
Quote from: Doogie Browser on January 27, 2012, 12:23:47 PM
Took Djokovic at Evs at start of 4th set when he broke first.

Did Murray at 13/8 when he was about to win second set.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AQMP on January 27, 2012, 12:43:34 PM
2 sets all, 1 all in the 5th.  BBC commentators will need heart transplants if Murray wins
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Doogie Browser on January 27, 2012, 12:55:31 PM
Quote from: Minder on January 27, 2012, 12:24:36 PM
Quote from: Doogie Browser on January 27, 2012, 12:23:47 PM
Took Djokovic at Evs at start of 4th set when he broke first.

Did Murray at 13/8 when he was about to win second set.
Last set looks like a real battle now in that heat.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Hardy on January 27, 2012, 01:08:43 PM
Nearly over. 5-2 d'jockey.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Norf Tyrone on January 27, 2012, 01:16:54 PM
Anyone else like to see Murray win? I just think he deserves to win a grand slam at some point.

Murray breaks back!!

Brave stuff!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Hardy on January 27, 2012, 01:17:36 PM
Murray breaks back to love! Serving at 4-5.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: FermGael on January 27, 2012, 01:17:52 PM
Savage stuff.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mouview on January 27, 2012, 01:19:26 PM
Quote from: Norf Tyrone on January 27, 2012, 01:16:54 PM
Anyone else like to see Murray win? I just think he deserves to win a grand slam at some point.

Murray breaks back!!

Brave stuff!

Don't care for him one way or another but don't think I could handle all the hype and hyperbole if he won a slam. Don't think he's near a player as the other 3 either. Oddly though, Djokovic spent his formative years in Britain learning his tennis trade and was approached to represent them but decided to stay loyal to Serbia, AFAIK.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AQMP on January 27, 2012, 01:19:39 PM
Have to hand it to the Brit.  At 2-5 the Scot was looking dead and buried.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Jack Frost on January 27, 2012, 01:24:53 PM
Murray is in some form. He deserves to win
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nifan on January 27, 2012, 01:38:10 PM
Ive always liked murray since the Paraguay shirt saga.
I prefer his obvious contempt for ridiculous questions in interviews to henmans eagerness to please.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AQMP on January 27, 2012, 01:42:57 PM
Unlucky. On that form he would have bate Federer.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Doogie Browser on January 27, 2012, 01:49:53 PM
Wouldn't bother me, his oul doll is a puke though!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orangemac on January 29, 2012, 10:21:26 AM
Great way to spend a Sunday morning watching Australian Open.

Hard to believe a few years ago people were saying tennis was finished, that it was all big serves. Mens game is proabably as good if not better than the 80s era. Murray is unlucky that 3 of the best players ever to play the game are around at the minute.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 29, 2012, 10:43:59 AM
Some serious rallies in these games, the energy levels of these top players is immense
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 29, 2012, 12:45:01 PM
Fantastic effort from Nadal there. Thrilling stuff
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: the Deel Rover on January 29, 2012, 12:49:09 PM
some game there by nadal  love 40  down and serving comes back to win the game so its 4-4 instead of 5-3 to djokovic in the 4th set . rain delay at the moment . Some match
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: the Deel Rover on January 29, 2012, 01:04:16 PM
5 all in the 4th hope its goes to a 5th set . djokovic is holding his serve easier than nadal
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 29, 2012, 01:26:55 PM
Some match, fair fcuks to Nadal, it looked like it was only going one way. There is no quit in either of them.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: the Deel Rover on January 29, 2012, 01:35:02 PM
Hope Nadal wins , thought he was going to loose that tie break he just never gives up
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: screenexile on January 29, 2012, 02:24:16 PM
Unreal stuff!!!! Hat's off to the pair of them that is some effort!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 29, 2012, 02:25:45 PM
Djokovic looked as if he could hardly walk 15 minutes ago.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: the Deel Rover on January 29, 2012, 02:29:33 PM
its some final . 5 hours  44 minutes djokovic serving for the final don't know how as minder said he looked dead on his feet 15 minutes ago
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: give her dixie on January 29, 2012, 02:36:02 PM
What a final....
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Harold Disgracey on January 29, 2012, 02:40:15 PM
What a game. A pity there has to be a loser. Congratulations Djokovic.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: the Deel Rover on January 29, 2012, 02:44:29 PM
Quote from: the Deel Rover on January 29, 2012, 02:41:51 PM
Quote from: Harold Disgracey on January 29, 2012, 02:40:15 PM
What a game. A pity there has to be a loser. Congratulations Djokovic.

such a shame to have a looser allright. I f he wins in france he will have all 4 titles
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on January 29, 2012, 02:57:45 PM
Fitness levels on display were unreal. Nadal was still doing shuttle runs right to the end. When Nadal broke in the last set Djokovic was on an 8 count so it was some effort to come back!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ziggy90 on January 29, 2012, 03:00:48 PM
Quote from: the Deel Rover on January 29, 2012, 02:44:29 PM
Quote from: the Deel Rover on January 29, 2012, 02:41:51 PM
Quote from: Harold Disgracey on January 29, 2012, 02:40:15 PM
What a game. A pity there has to be a loser. Congratulations Djokovic.

such a shame to have a looser allright. I f he wins in france he will have all 4 titles

I don't usually watch tennis but this was sport at it's best. Btw is it just me or does Nadal remind anyone else of Jason McAteer?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mouview on January 29, 2012, 03:05:24 PM
Magnificent final, perhaps second only to the Wimbledon final of 08. Djokovic looked out of it for the last set and a half but still found it within himself to keep going. Maybe the final turning point came when he called a Nadal serve out; it wasnt but it seemed to throw Nadal a little such that he lost the game and then the match. Have a preference for the Serb as I think he's just a little better all round, Nadal relies on power moreso. This is surely the golden age for men's tennis however.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 29, 2012, 03:14:59 PM
Quote from: mouview on January 29, 2012, 03:05:24 PM
Magnificent final, perhaps second only to the Wimbledon final of 08. Djokovic looked out of it for the last set and a half but still found it within himself to keep going. Maybe the final turning point came when he called a Nadal serve out; it wasnt but it seemed to throw Nadal a little such that he lost the game and then the match. Have a preference for the Serb as I think he's just a little better all round, Nadal relies on power moreso. This is surely the golden age for men's tennis however.

The turning point was Nadal up 4-2 in the fifth set, up 30-15 on his own serve and missed a total gimme, ended up losing that service game.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Seamroga in exile on January 29, 2012, 03:16:36 PM
I watched this all the way through. Brilliant match! 11 and a half hours of tennis for Nolle in the last 48 hours, some going.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on January 29, 2012, 03:30:30 PM
Weird thing is the first three sets were shite and error-strewn but those final two were unreal. Nadal won't have been that sick since losing to Federer in the 2007 Wimbledon final.

I'm a massive Nadal fan and don't like Djokovic but he's the man and Rafa has to get back to the drawing board to figure out how to beat him.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on January 29, 2012, 03:41:36 PM
Quote from: Minder on January 29, 2012, 03:14:59 PM
Quote from: mouview on January 29, 2012, 03:05:24 PM
Magnificent final, perhaps second only to the Wimbledon final of 08. Djokovic looked out of it for the last set and a half but still found it within himself to keep going. Maybe the final turning point came when he called a Nadal serve out; it wasnt but it seemed to throw Nadal a little such that he lost the game and then the match. Have a preference for the Serb as I think he's just a little better all round, Nadal relies on power moreso. This is surely the golden age for men's tennis however.

The turning point was Nadal up 4-2 in the fifth set, up 30-15 on his own serve and missed a total gimme, ended up losing that service game.

Was that the backhand down the line? We were cursing it, had half the court to aim at.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 29, 2012, 03:49:52 PM
Quote from: gallsman on January 29, 2012, 03:41:36 PM
Quote from: Minder on January 29, 2012, 03:14:59 PM
Quote from: mouview on January 29, 2012, 03:05:24 PM
Magnificent final, perhaps second only to the Wimbledon final of 08. Djokovic looked out of it for the last set and a half but still found it within himself to keep going. Maybe the final turning point came when he called a Nadal serve out; it wasnt but it seemed to throw Nadal a little such that he lost the game and then the match. Have a preference for the Serb as I think he's just a little better all round, Nadal relies on power moreso. This is surely the golden age for men's tennis however.

The turning point was Nadal up 4-2 in the fifth set, up 30-15 on his own serve and missed a total gimme, ended up losing that service game.

Was that the backhand down the line? We were cursing it, had half the court to aim at.

Aye that was it.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on June 28, 2012, 10:01:53 PM
Some nobody serving to put Nadal out now.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on June 28, 2012, 10:03:50 PM
Nadal out
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on June 28, 2012, 10:06:44 PM
Quote from: Minder on June 28, 2012, 10:03:50 PM
Nadal out
He should tell the autograph hunters to f**k off. The planets are aligning for Andy Murray...
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on June 28, 2012, 10:40:44 PM
That Rosol guy was just incredible in the fifth. He hit absolutely everything going. Devastated as I'm a massive Nadal fan, but your man deserved it.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Hardy on June 29, 2012, 12:52:22 AM
It was one of those occasions when you realise you're watching something special. Yer man was just unbelievable. Every shot a winner. Nadal was at his best but couldn't live with him. It was probably a freak event, because Rosol is 25 and has clearly never played like this before, so it's unlikely he will ever play like it again. If he did he would blow the rankings apart. A great occasion, though.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Dinny Breen on June 29, 2012, 08:40:26 AM
€246K matched on Nadal at 1/100 when taking 1st set. Rosol hit 109/1
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AQMP on June 29, 2012, 10:05:57 AM
Nadal a bit ungracious in defeat.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Denn Forever on June 29, 2012, 08:56:57 PM
Another epic night at Wimbledon. Federer up against it but has come back from 2 sets down.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: DuffleKing on June 29, 2012, 10:45:22 PM
What did nadal say?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: trileacman on June 29, 2012, 10:48:40 PM
Did Federer go out then as well?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on June 29, 2012, 10:49:44 PM
Quote from: trileacman on June 29, 2012, 10:48:40 PM
Did Federer go out then as well?

No he won in 5, was 2-0 down.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: trileacman on June 29, 2012, 11:03:10 PM
Have to say that whilst Federer seems like a dour lad I prefer to see him winning over Nadal.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: SHEEDY on June 30, 2012, 02:19:00 PM
good to see ana ivanovic back in form. always enjoy her matches. ;)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: maggie on June 30, 2012, 11:14:47 PM
Some finish from Murray. Just in time as well.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ziggy90 on July 06, 2012, 01:50:53 PM
Djorkovic v Federer anyone watching this? Roger one set up, has the makings of a long one.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: oisinog on July 06, 2012, 02:09:46 PM
Djokovic has just come back. This will go to 5 and it will be a long one again.

Murray might be finishing at 11 again
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ziggy90 on July 06, 2012, 02:54:47 PM
Roger gone two one up. Not a classic but very watchable. I don't know who to shout for. :-\
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AQMP on July 06, 2012, 03:01:28 PM
Quote from: ziggy90 on July 06, 2012, 02:54:47 PM
Roger gone two one up. Not a classic but very watchable. I don't know who to shout for. :-\

Tsonga!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ziggy90 on July 06, 2012, 03:09:43 PM
Nah, it's got to be Andy. ::)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: screenexile on July 06, 2012, 03:24:47 PM
How is it that neither of these 2 has a bead of sweat on their forehead or on their T-Shirt . . . if I had to stand up for 2 hours the gravy would be pouring off me!!!

Serious athletes!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ziggy90 on July 06, 2012, 03:29:41 PM
Then you'd have certain other people telling you it's not sport at all ::). Federer at match point-he's got it. Fair play.

Btw is it true that every time Federer wins a Grand Slam Tournament The Swiss Government present him with a Prize Bull ????
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AQMP on July 06, 2012, 03:31:04 PM
"Only" 2hrs 19mins, relatively short for a game between these two.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ziggy90 on July 06, 2012, 03:39:31 PM
Yeh, I don't think Djokovic was at his best today. Boris Becker saying just now that they're not the best of friends, he's hearing rumours from the locker room :o.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: spuds on July 06, 2012, 06:37:30 PM
Quote from: ziggy90 on July 06, 2012, 03:39:31 PM
Yeh, I don't think Djokovic was at his best today. Boris Becker saying just now that they're not the best of friends, he's hearing rumours from the locker room :o.
Was he listening while hiding in the wardrobe ?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: heganboy on July 06, 2012, 06:54:22 PM
quickie in the wardrobe got him into a fierce bit of trouble last time around

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2003/nov/04/books.sport

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: rrhf on July 06, 2012, 07:05:11 PM
Fair play to Murray loves the aul tennis boy..
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: dec on July 06, 2012, 07:25:50 PM
http://www.scotsman.com/edinburgh-evening-news/football/hibs/jamie-murray-to-cheer-hibs-on-in-scottish-cup-final-1-2303790

Hibs
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Hardy on July 06, 2012, 07:30:42 PM
I don't understand the relevance of the football company he supports. Regardless, he's in for a Rogering on Sunday, I imagine.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on July 06, 2012, 07:32:50 PM
Quote from: Hardy on July 06, 2012, 07:30:42 PM
I don't understand the relevance of the football company he supports. Regardless, he's in for a Rogering on Sunday, I imagine.

If Federer is on his game it will be straight sets I would think.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on July 06, 2012, 07:52:55 PM
Quote from: Minder on July 06, 2012, 07:32:50 PM
Quote from: Hardy on July 06, 2012, 07:30:42 PM
I don't understand the relevance of the football company he supports. Regardless, he's in for a Rogering on Sunday, I imagine.

If Federer is on his game it will be straight sets I would think.
I think he's past his best now. Murray could do this. Poor bastard has to endure being a Brit for an extra couple of days this year. Hopefully back to being a Jock on Monday...
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Sandy Hill on July 06, 2012, 10:53:59 PM
He doesn't sound like a jock. I find him a pain in the ass and hope he gets hammered on Sunday or it will be 1966 WOrld Cup type shit for another 50 years!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on July 06, 2012, 11:10:55 PM
Quote from: Sandy Hill on July 06, 2012, 10:53:59 PM
He doesn't sound like a jock. I find him a pain in the ass and hope he gets hammered on Sunday or it will be 1966 WOrld Cup type shit for another 50 years!
+1. Some journo on Twitter said if he wins it will be bigger than amy story at the Olympics. He caught a break with Nadal getting dumped out.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on July 06, 2012, 11:49:49 PM
If he were to win this, Wiggins the tour defrance and they won a load of golds in the olympics could be hard to listen to...
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on July 06, 2012, 11:52:55 PM
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 06, 2012, 11:49:49 PM
If he were to win this, Wiggins the tour defrance and they won a load of golds in the olympics could be hard to listen to...
At least we didn't have to suffer England v Germany on the way to defeating Spain in thr final of the Euros.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on July 07, 2012, 02:44:27 PM
Birds tennis is rubbish.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: trileacman on July 07, 2012, 03:31:02 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 07, 2012, 02:44:27 PM
Birds tennis is rubbish.

Without some decent beurs its nothing.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: All of a Sludden on July 07, 2012, 04:28:05 PM
Quote from: trileacman on July 07, 2012, 03:31:02 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 07, 2012, 02:44:27 PM
Birds tennis is rubbish.

Without some decent beurs its nothing.

Serena is the hottest woman in tennis.

Not a bad game, looks like she has it won now.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Captain Obvious on July 07, 2012, 06:48:03 PM
Quote from: All of a Sludden on July 07, 2012, 04:28:05 PM
Quote from: trileacman on July 07, 2012, 03:31:02 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 07, 2012, 02:44:27 PM
Birds tennis is rubbish.

Without some decent beurs its nothing.

Serena is the hottest woman in tennis.

Not a bad game, looks like she has it won now.

All the eastern European women tennis players are hotter than Serena.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: trileacman on July 07, 2012, 08:24:26 PM
Quote from: All of a Sludden on July 07, 2012, 04:28:05 PM
Quote from: trileacman on July 07, 2012, 03:31:02 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 07, 2012, 02:44:27 PM
Birds tennis is rubbish.

Without some decent beurs its nothing.

Serena is the hottest woman in tennis.

Not a bad game, looks like she has it won now.

She's a woman!!!!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: sammymaguire on July 07, 2012, 10:33:28 PM
Anyone reckon Murray can win Wimbledon tomorrow?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on July 07, 2012, 10:35:39 PM
Quote from: sammymaguire on July 07, 2012, 10:33:28 PM
Anyone reckon Murray can win Wimbledon tomorrow?

Yes. Better chance against a Federera on the decline than against Nadal or Jorkaviv (spelling not my thing).

To be honest, I wont switch it on until the third set, as I find the first couple of sets boring as hell.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: sammymaguire on July 07, 2012, 10:40:48 PM
I reckon he could beat him too, Fed will find it hard to play better than he did in the semi and Murray played Federer in the US Open final a couple of years ago so won't fear him ... Can see him do it. There is a bet some guy did a few years ago over £10k on Fed to win 7 titles before 2019 at 66/1 I think and if the bet comes in, Oxfam stand to gain over £100k as the chap is now dead!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on July 07, 2012, 11:12:55 PM
Quote from: sammymaguire on July 07, 2012, 10:40:48 PM
I reckon he could beat him too, Fed will find it hard to play better than he did in the semi and Murray played Federer in the US Open final a couple of years ago so won't fear him ... Can see him do it. There is a bet some guy did a few years ago over £10k on Fed to win 7 titles before 2019 at 66/1 I think and if the bet comes in, Oxfam stand to gain over £100k as the chap is now dead!

Federer beat him in straight sets in that game so he won't be taking much from that, obviously he has a chance but the way Federer beat Djokovic he didn't look in decline.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Hardy on July 08, 2012, 09:23:01 AM
He has a 7/4 chance. Federer 1/2.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: haranguerer on July 08, 2012, 09:40:07 AM
Quote from: Orior on July 07, 2012, 10:35:39 PM
Quote from: sammymaguire on July 07, 2012, 10:33:28 PM
Anyone reckon Murray can win Wimbledon tomorrow?

Yes. Better chance against a Federera on the decline than against Nadal or Jorkaviv (spelling not my thing).

To be honest, I wont switch it on until the third set, as I find the first couple of sets boring as hell.

How will you know when the third set is starting?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Sandy Hill on July 08, 2012, 11:11:36 AM
Quote from: sammymaguire on July 07, 2012, 10:40:48 PM
I reckon he could beat him too, Fed will find it hard to play better than he did in the semi and Murray played Federer in the US Open final a couple of years ago so won't fear him ... Can see him do it. There is a bet some guy did a few years ago over £10k on Fed to win 7 titles before 2019 at 66/1 I think and if the bet comes in, Oxfam stand to gain over £100k as the chap is now dead!

Sincerely hope he wins his bet! ;)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: All of a Sludden on July 08, 2012, 12:33:39 PM
I'd like to see the Scottish lad win, but I wouldn't be too bothered if the Brit lost.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: haranguerer on July 08, 2012, 01:05:56 PM
Really hope to see Murray do it. I've always found him to be honest and likeable. His grumpiness as it is portrayed is for me a reaction to a media who he is smart enough to know to keep at arms length - nothing worse for someone who wants to be a winner to be a media darling like Henman, but a complete overhyped flop.

He'll need federer to have an off day, but as long as he can keep his concentration hes got a good shot
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ziggy90 on July 08, 2012, 01:13:47 PM
Quote from: haranguerer on July 08, 2012, 01:05:56 PM
Really hope to see Murray do it. I've always found him to be honest and likeable. His grumpiness as it is portrayed is for me a reaction to a media who he is smart enough to know to keep at arms length - nothing worse for someone who wants to be a winner to be a media darling like Henman, but a complete overhyped flop.

He'll need federer to have an off day, but as long as he can keep his concentration hes got a good shot

Very good post, I can't for the life of me understand what people have against Murray. Around here (Birmingham) support for him is very divided.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on July 08, 2012, 01:33:24 PM
I don't think too many have a problem with Murray just the eruption of f**k wittery in the media if he wins.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: From the Bunker on July 08, 2012, 03:51:01 PM
Quote from: ziggy90 on July 08, 2012, 01:13:47 PM
Quote from: haranguerer on July 08, 2012, 01:05:56 PM
Really hope to see Murray do it. I've always found him to be honest and likeable. His grumpiness as it is portrayed is for me a reaction to a media who he is smart enough to know to keep at arms length - nothing worse for someone who wants to be a winner to be a media darling like Henman, but a complete overhyped flop.

He'll need federer to have an off day, but as long as he can keep his concentration hes got a good shot

Very good post, I can't for the life of me understand what people have against Murray. Around here (Birmingham) support for him is very divided.

He's British, but not English. Wimbledon is 'all English lawn tennis club'. Henman and Perry were/are English.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ziggy90 on July 08, 2012, 03:58:13 PM
I Know that, what's your point? Usually people here would be shouting for any British and/or Irish Sportsperson but support for Murray is very limited.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: All of a Sludden on July 08, 2012, 04:05:44 PM
There is a lot of apathy towards Murray in Engerland because of his "anyone but England" comments a few years ago. He is Scottish after all.

Game on, one set all.

The crowd would sicken your happiness though.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Hardy on July 08, 2012, 04:32:39 PM
Fascinating battle. Federer shows what a champion is by winning the second set having been kicked up and down the court all through it.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Captain Obvious on July 08, 2012, 06:03:04 PM
Andy Murray's girlfriend = hot.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on July 08, 2012, 06:37:30 PM
Really enjoyed that, end to end stuff.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: stew on July 08, 2012, 06:59:49 PM
Once the roof closed Federer could do little wrong, Murray was fantastic in this final however on the couple of occasions were he should have hit winners he bottled it, that was huge in the end.

Federer's movement is incredible and his forehand is out of this world, he and Laver stand as the two greatest players of all time, and he is only about to become 31.

Murray will win a major, he is improving all the time and i hope he does win one, that said I wish he would relax and smile once in a while, after all he has everything he could ever possibly need or want and it wouldnt kill him to take the sour look of his face now and again.




Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orangemac on July 08, 2012, 07:13:49 PM
Quote from: stew on July 08, 2012, 06:59:49 PM
Once the roof closed Federer could do little wrong, Murray was fantastic in this final however on the couple of occasions were he should have hit winners he bottled it, that was huge in the end.

Federer's movement is incredible and his forehand is out of this world, he and Laver stand as the two greatest players of all time, and he is only about to become 31.

Murray will win a major, he is improving all the time and i hope he does win one, that said I wish he would relax and smile once in a while, after all he has everything he could ever possibly need or want and it wouldnt kill him to take the sour look of his face now and again.
People said the same thing about Colin Montgomerie, it never happened. Murray seems to be just missing that 1 or 2% of mental strength required to hang in when things are going well. Doesn't matter if he is sour or not.

Having Lendl as a mentor wouldn't help much, how many Wimbeldon finals did he lose without winning one?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on July 08, 2012, 07:26:47 PM
Quote from: Orangemac on July 08, 2012, 07:13:49 PM
Quote from: stew on July 08, 2012, 06:59:49 PM
Once the roof closed Federer could do little wrong, Murray was fantastic in this final however on the couple of occasions were he should have hit winners he bottled it, that was huge in the end.

Federer's movement is incredible and his forehand is out of this world, he and Laver stand as the two greatest players of all time, and he is only about to become 31.

Murray will win a major, he is improving all the time and i hope he does win one, that said I wish he would relax and smile once in a while, after all he has everything he could ever possibly need or want and it wouldnt kill him to take the sour look of his face now and again.
People said the same thing about Colin Montgomerie, it never happened. Murray seems to be just missing that 1 or 2% of mental strength required to hang in when things are going well. Doesn't matter if he is sour or not.

Having Lendl as a mentor wouldn't help much, how many Wimbeldon finals did he lose without winning one?

Lendl won 8 Grand slams though.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Aaron Boone on July 08, 2012, 08:34:36 PM
Quote from: Orangemac on July 08, 2012, 07:13:49 PM
Quote from: stew on July 08, 2012, 06:59:49 PM
Once the roof closed Federer could do little wrong, Murray was fantastic in this final however on the couple of occasions were he should have hit winners he bottled it, that was huge in the end.

Federer's movement is incredible and his forehand is out of this world, he and Laver stand as the two greatest players of all time, and he is only about to become 31.

Murray will win a major, he is improving all the time and i hope he does win one, that said I wish he would relax and smile once in a while, after all he has everything he could ever possibly need or want and it wouldnt kill him to take the sour look of his face now and again.
People said the same thing about Colin Montgomerie, it never happened. Murray seems to be just missing that 1 or 2% of mental strength required to hang in when things are going well. Doesn't matter if he is sour or not.

Having Lendl as a mentor wouldn't help much, how many Wimbeldon finals did he lose without winning one?

Agree with this. Murray is a great player but he's just in a time of 3 greater players. He's way better than the number 5 seed but can't bridge it to the lads above him. I don't see him winning a GS.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: From the Bunker on July 08, 2012, 09:47:17 PM
Murray is 25! Federrer won Wimbledon at 22. Djokovic won Australia at 21. Nadal won French open at 19. Björn Borg won french open at 18. Jimmy Connors won US, French & Wimbledon at 22. Becker won wimbledon at 17. Lendl won French open at 25. McEnroe won US at 20. Sampras won US open at 19. Agassi won Wimbledon at 22. Jim Courier won french open at 21. Edberg won Australia Open at 19. Matts Willander won French open at 18.

All the above were/are great players. You'll notice they got the monkey of the back early in their career. Some almost under the Radar before the pressure, expectaton and fear built up. The oldest i came across was Lendl who was 25!


Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on July 08, 2012, 09:49:39 PM
Quote from: stew on July 08, 2012, 06:59:49 PM
Once the roof closed Federer could do little wrong, Murray was fantastic in this final however on the couple of occasions were he should have hit winners he bottled it, that was huge in the end.

Federer's movement is incredible and his forehand is out of this world, he and Laver stand as the two greatest players of all time, and he is only about to become 31.

Murray will win a major, he is improving all the time and i hope he does win one, that said I wish he would relax and smile once in a while, after all he has everything he could ever possibly need or want and it wouldnt kill him to take the sour look of his face now and again.

I dont think he needs to smile and I admire his 100% focus. If it was me I'd be checking out every bird in centre court.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: trileacman on July 08, 2012, 11:30:40 PM
I know very little about tennis but I'd have to say that Federer seems like the most talented of any of the players I've seen, the others mostly seem to make up the gap with him by being fitter and stronger. Nadal especially seems to be just an athlete and nowhere near as technically gifted as Djokovic or Federer.

Murray is decent but could you see him beating Djokovic, Federer or Nadal in another Grand Slam final? Federer looks his best bet at beating one of them and he couldn't do it. Murray isn't a smart enough player either. Early in the match he chased a lot of lost causes whereas Federer seemed to choose his rallies that he needed.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Bill Haven on July 08, 2012, 11:50:15 PM
I'd rate Murray's chances of picking up a slam at about 50:50.

I certainly believe he'll get his chances in the next couple of years.

Nadal has dodgy knees and Djokovic is looking increasingly human after his insane run in 2011 and early this year.

Also Federer is getting older. He's a step slower than he was at his peak but his natural movement and quickness off the mark on grass hides it. His age will be more apparent at the other slams.

Most importantly, the age profile of the sport has changed dramatically in the last 5 years. The average age of the top 100 is over 27 for the first time. (It was more like 24 in 80s and 90s).

In the past it was common to see teenagers winning majors. With the increased physicality of the game and greater depth globally, talented youngsters are taking much longer to break through.

There's just a single teenager in the top 175 in the world, something that would have been inconceivable even 5 years ago.

All of this means that for the next two years, the current top 4 should continue to dominate with the occasional big runs from the usual suspects like Berdych, Tsonga and Soderling if he ever recovers from illness.

Juan Martin Del Potro should become a contender again but the best of the young generation (the likes of Bernard Tomic and Milos Raonic) will need at least two years development to become potential major winners in my opinion.

Anyways, apologies for the long winded post but I think Murray can take more positives than negatives from today's performance and there's no need to believe that he's missed the boat just yet.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on July 08, 2012, 11:54:19 PM
Quote from: trileacman on July 08, 2012, 11:30:40 PM
I know very little about tennis but I'd have to say that Federer seems like the most talented of any of the players I've seen, the others mostly seem to make up the gap with him by being fitter and stronger. Nadal especially seems to be just an athlete and nowhere near as technically gifted as Djokovic or Federer.

Murray is decent but could you see him beating Djokovic, Federer or Nadal in another Grand Slam final? Federer looks his best bet at beating one of them and he couldn't do it. Murray isn't a smart enough player either. Early in the match he chased a lot of lost causes whereas Federer seemed to choose his rallies that he needed.
Tiger Woods tweeted earlier that Federer is the #GOAT. He hardly ever seems to get flustered or even be out of breath. Perfect combination of brain, athleticism and skill - his forehand is something else.

I honestly think Murray will win one soon, might not be the romanticism of Wimbledon for his first slam but could nail one on in the Australian first.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on July 09, 2012, 12:31:47 AM
Federer reminds me of me to be honest.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Captain Obvious on July 09, 2012, 01:01:55 AM
Quote from: ONeill on July 09, 2012, 12:31:47 AM
Federer reminds me of me to be honest.
The big nose and the huge bank balance?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nifan on July 09, 2012, 08:17:48 AM
I like murray - he doesnt try to perform all the time to the medias expectations like tim henman - hes focused on his sport but he has a real sarcastic sense of humour too with the media, when they want emotion.
Made yesterdays emotion at the end more real too - you know he doesn't put the tears on at the drop of a hat.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on July 09, 2012, 09:20:54 AM
Quote from: Captain Obvious on July 09, 2012, 01:01:55 AM
Quote from: ONeill on July 09, 2012, 12:31:47 AM
Federer reminds me of me to be honest.
The big nose and the huge bank balance?
Either being the father of twins or having a mop of thick dark hair.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AQMP on July 09, 2012, 11:10:32 AM
I like Murray...he doesn't seem to have much time for all the media bollocks and is not Tiger Tim, though he is 10 times the player Henman was.

Federder is a genius though.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on July 09, 2012, 11:24:06 AM
Quote from: AQMP on July 09, 2012, 11:10:32 AM


Federder is a genius though.

I think that's how the announcer pronounced it too when handing over the trophy.

Around 59 seconds. - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7dseNuNqpw
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AQMP on July 09, 2012, 11:50:09 AM
Quote from: ONeill on July 09, 2012, 11:24:06 AM
Quote from: AQMP on July 09, 2012, 11:10:32 AM


Federder is a genius though.

I think that's how the announcer pronounced it too when handing over the trophy.

Around 59 seconds. - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7dseNuNqpw

I got a bit mixed up, I meant Anton Federder in the other thread...
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: johnneycool on July 09, 2012, 11:51:35 AM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 09, 2012, 09:20:54 AM
Quote from: Captain Obvious on July 09, 2012, 01:01:55 AM
Quote from: ONeill on July 09, 2012, 12:31:47 AM
Federer reminds me of me to be honest.
The big nose and the huge bank balance?
Either being the father of twins or having a mop of thick dark hair.

Or the appalling fashion sense?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AQMP on July 09, 2012, 12:42:44 PM
Good piece by Charlie Brooker in the Guardian about Andy Murray (written before yesterday's match)

http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2012/jul/08/andy-murray-not-miserable-just-normal

Congratulations to Andy Murray, who either did or didn't win Wimbledon this afternoon. Since I'm writing this almost immediately before the match itself kicks off, I've got no way of knowing what the outcome was. Is. Will be. Whatever.

I think I can safely predict one thing, though: whatever happens, win or lose, in the post-game interview, he won't do a double thumbs-up, gurn joyously down the lens, waggle his tongue around like Gazza, then moonwalk off, waving, grinning, and making comedy trombone noises. That's not the Andy Murray we know and sort of love.

People say Murray's miserable because he doesn't smile very often. He's not miserable. He's normal. Have you walked down a street recently? Any street in the country? Go on, pick one. Take a stroll. Bring a notepad. Make a note each time you spot someone walking around beaming like they just taught their dog to shit money. Chances are you'll cross six postcodes before you glimpse so much as a smirk. Which isn't to say people are inherently unhappy. Just that they've got better things to do with their faces than walking around bending their mouths up like idiots.

The people who want Murray to smile are the same ones who try to make me dance at weddings. They want the world to conspicuously enjoy itself in a manner of their choosing, and they turn vaguely sanctimonious when they encounter pockets of resistance, as though their definition of fun is the only one that matters.

So Murray isn't going to win the Merryville Festival of Grins any time soon. What difference does it make to you, you needy pricks? Can't he just play tennis without having to turn around after each point and pull a happy face just for you, like he's your dad watering plants in the garden and you're a toddler watching him through the kitchen window? What do you want, a tennis champion or Mister Tumble? Make your mind up, because you're not getting both.

Perhaps part of the confusion is that despite being very much in the public eye, Murray refuses to play along with the patronising emotionalism demanded by the media, where sporting stars are expected to put on showy displays of "passion" that look good in a highlights package at the end of the show. If you're not a natural cartwheels-of-victory type, it must be a pain in the arse to know everyone's expectantly gauging your reaction. You know how when you're opening a birthday present in front of a crowd, all your brain can do is scream: "FOR GOD'S SAKE LOOK DELIGHTED!" at you? Multiply that by ten million. I'd say Murray's ability to ignore this pressure is almost more impressive than his racquet skills.

Moments after beating Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the semi-final, Murray was interviewed by the BBC's Garry Richardson, who found himself repeatedly trying to squeeze some kind of rousing sentiment from a man intent on describing the game in technical terms, like a straight-faced IT consultant explaining how he fixed a problem with the server.

After trying and failing to get him to describe the match as a rollercoaster of emotions, Richardson brought up Murray's mum and dad, who'd been sitting in the audience. "What can it possibly have been like, Andy, for your parents watching there?" he asked, presumably hoping to prompt a moment of choked-up pride. Murray handed him a cold stone in return.

"I've no idea," he replied, deadpan. "I'm not really that bothered. It's a lot harder for me, that's for sure." And there was a glimmer of a dark smirk at the end, the kind that doesn't register in a world in which all emotions must be expressible as emoticons and interior happiness is required to be rendered visible from a range of 200 metres.

That's precisely the kind of sporting hero we need. One who's allergic to bullshit and treats the whole thing like a job that rather than a tear-jerked spiritual calling. He seems to want to ignore the media. Trouble is, he's so bloody good at tennis, the media can't ignore him. But like a bluebottle repeatedly bashing its face against a windowpane, it continually tries and fails to turn him into yet another easily digested celebrity. "Celebrity" is increasingly the only role the media can process, yet it's a role in which Murray looks about as comfortable as a dog on rollerblades.

In the run-up to the Wimbledon final (which, at the risk of repeating myself, hasn't happened at the time of writing), press and broadcasters alike routinely described Murray as some kind of symbolic vessel containing all British hope. All our dreams, all our aspirations – all on his shoulders, apparently. Poor f**ker.

The strong implication was that if he won, it'd solve all our national neuroses at a stroke: like England won Euro 2012, like Barclays behaved, like Diana never died. We'd be commanded to stand outside collectively waving union flags as though trying to attract the attention of some huge intergalactic queen bee hovering somewhere above the atmosphere. But if, on the other hand, he lost we'd either tut and say it's typical – because we're allowed to be grouchy, but the people we pointlessly entrust with our sense of national self-worth aren't – or, more likely, be expected to sit soggy-eyed watching a slow-motion montage of his disappointed face, cut to something mournful-but-unthreatening with a hint of Coldplay about it. Because if he won't supply the emotion, goddamit, we'll make the soundtrack do it on his behalf
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on July 09, 2012, 01:22:56 PM
Thon Garry Richardson fella is a terrible interviewer. I think it was him interviewing Rosol after beating Nadal and when asked how he felt after beating a legend like Nadal, Rosol (obviously dying to escape) said it hadn't sunk in and he couldn't describe it. Richardson, not taking the hint, then asked him how he felt before the match with Nadal  ??? Knob!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ludermor on July 09, 2012, 01:54:15 PM
Quote from: AQMP on July 09, 2012, 12:42:44 PM
Good piece by Charlie Brooker in the Guardian about Andy Murray (written before yesterday's match)

http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2012/jul/08/andy-murray-not-miserable-just-normal


After trying and failing to get him to describe the match as a rollercoaster of emotions, Richardson brought up Murray's mum and dad, who'd been sitting in the audience. "What can it possibly have been like, Andy, for your parents watching there?" he asked, presumably hoping to prompt a moment of choked-up pride. Murray handed him a cold stone in return.

"I've no idea," he replied, deadpan. "I'm not really that bothered. It's a lot harder for me, that's for sure." And there was a glimmer of a dark smirk at the end, the kind that doesn't register in a world in which all emotions must be expressible as emoticons and interior happiness is required to be rendered visible from a range of 200 metres.


That was cringworthy alright and i loved Murrays response.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Bill Haven on July 09, 2012, 01:55:07 PM
Richardon is arguably the biggest twat in sports broadcasting. No exaggeration.

He interviewed Marcos Baghdatis after he trounced Murray in 2006 in I think the third round.

Richardson: "So Marcos, surely this is the biggest win of your career!?"

Baghdatis: "Ehhh...well....I reached the Australian Open final a few months ago. I had some bigger wins there."

Richardson: "But this is WIMBLEDON for heaven's sake!!!"


He's OBSESSED with the royal family too.

1st question to federer after quarter-final this year: "Did you raise your game knowing there were so many royal dignitaries present?"

To Murray last year: "So how did it feel to play in front of William and Kate?"

He's a complete cretin. An absolute disgrace to the sport
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Hardy on July 09, 2012, 03:01:14 PM
Quote from: Bill Haven on July 09, 2012, 01:55:07 PM
Richardon is arguably the biggest t**t in sports broadcasting. No exaggeration.

Ah come on.

(http://i648.photobucket.com/albums/uu206/Hardyarse/Spillane1.png)

(http://i648.photobucket.com/albums/uu206/Hardyarse/Marty2.png)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on July 09, 2012, 04:41:52 PM
According to the BBC website, Andy Murray is 'more determined than ever' to win a Grand Slam.

Does that mean he wasnt fully determined previously?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on July 09, 2012, 10:59:15 PM
Quote from: Orior on July 09, 2012, 04:41:52 PM
According to the BBC website, Andy Murray is 'more determined than ever' to win a Grand Slam.

Does that mean he wasnt fully determined previously?
Upping his game from a full 100% to an Apprentice-style 110%!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: From the Bunker on July 09, 2012, 11:28:18 PM
Quote from: Orior on July 09, 2012, 04:41:52 PM
According to the BBC website, Andy Murray is 'more determined than ever' to win a Grand Slam.

Does that mean he wasnt fully determined previously?

Ah it's media speak for the fans.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on September 10, 2012, 11:39:52 PM
Murray 2-0 up
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on September 10, 2012, 11:41:41 PM
Quote from: ONeill on September 10, 2012, 11:39:52 PM
Murray 2-0 up
Hateful cnut.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on September 10, 2012, 11:45:54 PM
Was only sayin like.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on September 10, 2012, 11:47:33 PM
Quote from: ONeill on September 10, 2012, 11:45:54 PM
Was only sayin like.
;D funny guy.

Him, not you  ;)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on September 10, 2012, 11:57:33 PM
Who did Murray just shout "take your time you dick" to?

At 2-0 and 1-1 in the third he's no need to be losing the bap.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on September 11, 2012, 12:29:26 AM
Murray wilting. Complaining about everything and anything now.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: screenexile on September 11, 2012, 12:31:31 AM
Quote from: ONeill on September 11, 2012, 12:29:26 AM
Murray wilting. Complaining about everything and anything now.

At one stage the commentator called it 'a rout'. Ridiculous!!! Djokovic is a proven winner and has done it time and time again. Murray ain't done shit yet. I think he's good enough but he's letting this opportunity slip at present.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on September 11, 2012, 12:35:55 AM
Some collapse by Murray if he doesn't find a second wind. Djokovic is watching him melt at the other side of the court. Injured?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on September 11, 2012, 01:00:28 AM
Some great tennis now. Murray has steadied himself a bit.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: screenexile on September 11, 2012, 01:02:33 AM
Class stuff alright. It's gladiator shit out there now the 2 lads must be dead on their feet!

I want Murray to win at this stage now I'm dying to get to bed!!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on September 11, 2012, 01:06:32 AM
Murray winning his own serve handy now. Close to breaking him too.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: screenexile on September 11, 2012, 01:15:56 AM
Quote from: ONeill on September 11, 2012, 01:06:32 AM
Murray winning his own serve handy now. Close to breaking him too.

Fcuk that!!! This better be a 6-0 for either player so I can get in the pit!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on September 11, 2012, 01:18:51 AM
I'm bate. Will know in 6 hours.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: screenexile on September 11, 2012, 01:35:23 AM
Quote from: ONeill on September 11, 2012, 01:18:51 AM
I'm bate. Will know in 6 hours.

Lightweight!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: All of a Sludden on September 11, 2012, 01:36:43 AM
3-0 to Murray in the final set, all over bar the shouting.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: BennyHarp on September 11, 2012, 01:39:08 AM
I wouldn't write Djokovic off but Murray played some great stuff in the first 3 games of that final set.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: BennyHarp on September 11, 2012, 01:41:52 AM
Djokovic breaks back - some match!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: All of a Sludden on September 11, 2012, 01:48:03 AM
3-2
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: All of a Sludden on September 11, 2012, 01:49:47 AM
I knew I'd seen Murray's mum before.


(http://thumbsnap.com/s/MN6XsVyn.jpg)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: dillinger on September 11, 2012, 01:58:10 AM
Hope he wins this set, i want to go to bed.

Think Murray is about to be British again by the press.  ;D
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: SLIGONIAN on September 11, 2012, 02:04:59 AM
Murray  YEEEEESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS, SUCK ON THAT ALL you murray haters, yessssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: heganboy on September 11, 2012, 02:07:30 AM
That was epic! Great sport, great viewing...
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: BennyHarp on September 11, 2012, 02:10:22 AM
Well done Murray - great stuff! Worth staying up for, amazing match!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: SLIGONIAN on September 11, 2012, 02:12:45 AM
Top 4 won all 4 grand slams this yr, unreal stuff from murray, character and mental resolve, delighted for him....yes
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ross4life on September 11, 2012, 02:17:33 AM
Fair play to Murray he wiped away the tears of Wimbledon to produce the goods tonight. At least the Brits can stop talking about Fred Perry now.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: LeoMc on September 11, 2012, 08:46:25 AM
Quote from: SLIGONIAN on September 11, 2012, 02:12:45 AM
Top 4 won all 4 grand slams this yr, unreal stuff from murray, character and mental resolve, delighted for him....yes

4 Grand slams with 4 different winners and no-one looking like dominating. Keeps it fresh.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: LeoMc on September 11, 2012, 08:46:57 AM
Quote from: ross4life on September 11, 2012, 02:17:33 AM
Fair play to Murray he wiped away the tears of Wimbledon to produce the goods tonight. At least the Brits can stop talking about Fred Perry now.

A bit of pressure on Bradley for SPOTY now.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AQMP on September 11, 2012, 09:03:57 AM
Fair play to Murray.  Glad for him.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on September 11, 2012, 09:12:44 AM
Aye you couldn't begrudge him it, has been knocking on the door long enough.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: screenexile on September 11, 2012, 09:15:17 AM
Quote from: LeoMc on September 11, 2012, 08:46:57 AM
Quote from: ross4life on September 11, 2012, 02:17:33 AM
Fair play to Murray he wiped away the tears of Wimbledon to produce the goods tonight. At least the Brits can stop talking about Fred Perry now.

A bit of pressure on Bradley for SPOTY now.

I think he was going to get it tight anyway with Mo, Jess and Rory all in with a shout of getting it. If McIlroy wins the FedEx and he plays well in the Ryder Cup he's bound to be in with a shout!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Denn Forever on September 11, 2012, 09:28:11 AM
Well done Andy.  No one can say that one was a gimme.

Was further impressed by him when he was in the audience of Mock the Week after losing in Wimbledon.  Took the ribbing from the panel well (there was a lot).
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: LeoMc on September 11, 2012, 09:46:15 AM
Quote from: Denn Forever on September 11, 2012, 09:28:11 AM
Well done Andy.  No one can say that one was a gimme.

Was further impressed by him when he was in the audience of Mock the Week after losing in Wimbledon.  Took the ribbing from the panel well (there was a lot).

Dara O'Briain is on twitter taking credit for the win. :)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Declan on September 11, 2012, 10:06:40 AM
Fair play to him for seeing that one out. good mental strength
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Hardy on September 11, 2012, 10:41:46 AM
Not bad going for a lad who doesn't even like tennis, but is scared to tell his mother.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on September 11, 2012, 10:47:50 AM
Quote from: LeoMc on September 11, 2012, 08:46:25 AM
Quote from: SLIGONIAN on September 11, 2012, 02:12:45 AM
Top 4 won all 4 grand slams this yr, unreal stuff from murray, character and mental resolve, delighted for him....yes

4 Grand slams with 4 different winners and no-one looking like dominating. Keeps it fresh.

Nadal has missed a lot this year though.  When he is back from injury the next few years will be dominated by himself and Djokovic.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on September 11, 2012, 10:55:14 AM
I will never make it as a tennis analyst.

I sat up until Andy had lost the fourth set, and thought, ah, he's gonna loose again. So i went on to bed. D'oh!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: BennyHarp on September 11, 2012, 10:55:29 AM
Quote from: nrico2006 on September 11, 2012, 10:47:50 AM
Quote from: LeoMc on September 11, 2012, 08:46:25 AM
Quote from: SLIGONIAN on September 11, 2012, 02:12:45 AM
Top 4 won all 4 grand slams this yr, unreal stuff from murray, character and mental resolve, delighted for him....yes

4 Grand slams with 4 different winners and no-one looking like dominating. Keeps it fresh.

Nadal has missed a lot this year though.  When he is back from injury the next few years will be dominated by himself and Djokovic.

I wouldnt be so sure - theres no guarantee that Nadal will come back from injury to be the force he was and I have a feeling that Murray could go from strength to strength after this. His improvement over the last 12 months has been immense and if he can keep improving he could maintain an equal place amongst the big 2 (or 3) for the next few years.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Declan on September 11, 2012, 11:39:30 AM
QuoteNot bad going for a lad who doesn't even like tennis, but is scared to tell his mother.
:D

Whatever about the first part I'd say you could add the tennis Mom phenomenon to the well known tennis Dad one in  this case
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on September 11, 2012, 12:01:26 PM
Was his Dad at the final?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: SLIGONIAN on September 11, 2012, 12:04:07 PM
Quote from: BennyHarp on September 11, 2012, 10:55:29 AM
Quote from: nrico2006 on September 11, 2012, 10:47:50 AM
Quote from: LeoMc on September 11, 2012, 08:46:25 AM
Quote from: SLIGONIAN on September 11, 2012, 02:12:45 AM
Top 4 won all 4 grand slams this yr, unreal stuff from murray, character and mental resolve, delighted for him....yes

4 Grand slams with 4 different winners and no-one looking like dominating. Keeps it fresh.

Nadal has missed a lot this year though.  When he is back from injury the next few years will be dominated by himself and Djokovic.

I wouldnt be so sure - theres no guarantee that Nadal will come back from injury to be the force he was and I have a feeling that Murray could go from strength to strength after this. His improvement over the last 12 months has been immense and if he can keep improving he could maintain an equal place amongst the big 2 (or 3) for the next few years.
Ya nadals game is based on power and wearing down his opponent in a very physical way, he uses every fibre of his body to the max and it was eventually gonna break down although he has improved his serve and volley to win easier points, but usually its rally after rally shootouts, hes out for a few more months and will take a while to get back to full form, the other thing is he is world no4 and dropping the longer he is out so it means it will get harder draws, Murray is on the up, hes had some summer, wimbledon final, gold at olympics and now winning US open, murrays or Djokovic are in line for world no1 by the end of the yr as federer hasnt much ranking points to get (and hes 31 so hasnt too much left in tank), and bearing in mind the masters finals are on hardcourt in london and Australian open is one of murray best tournaments every year hes in a great position especially mentally. In fairness considering his history of losing finals and djokovic coming back to level at 2-2 sets all, that some last set.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Hardy on September 11, 2012, 12:07:08 PM
Quote from: Declan on September 11, 2012, 11:39:30 AM
QuoteNot bad going for a lad who doesn't even like tennis, but is scared to tell his mother.
:D

Whatever about the first part I'd say you could add the tennis Mom phenomenon to the well known tennis Dad one in  this case

I have to confess it wasn't original - I saw some stand-up use it on the Edinburgh festival highlights.

Another bloke had a very good line on soccer: It draws the poison from Saturday afternoons, so that decent people can go shopping, safe in the knowledge that the dangerous unsocialised have been lured into vast holding pens on the outskirts of town, where those wearing different colours go at each other like budgies at a mirror.

Same bloke: John terry always reminds me of skiing: a waste of money, likely to break your leg and the eyes are too close together.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Forever Green on September 11, 2012, 12:10:26 PM
Andy Murray is one dour looking bastard. I feel sorry for his lovely looking women
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Billys Boots on September 11, 2012, 12:14:54 PM
Must be time (at last) for the Monty Python Scottish Tennis Players sketch(es).  Voila!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sVbb6pZLfzU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sVbb6pZLfzU)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: front of the mountain on September 11, 2012, 12:48:12 PM
Frankie Boyle on twitter: Brilliant Andy Murray. "When we think of this date we will always remember your historic victory"
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on September 11, 2012, 08:05:47 PM
Murray's bill that night:

(http://l.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/00LiRVPUj.oZQIGmyM8DPA--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7cT04NTt3PTYzMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en-GB/blogs/tram-lines/barbill.jpg)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on September 11, 2012, 08:22:06 PM
Quote from: Forever Green on September 11, 2012, 12:10:26 PM
Andy Murray is one dour looking b**tard. I feel sorry for his lovely looking women

That is not fair. Have you ever seen how dour some soccer players are? Why dont you have a go at them?

On the court, Andy is focussed. Off the court it is different.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on September 11, 2012, 08:39:18 PM
Quote from: ONeill on September 11, 2012, 08:05:47 PM
Murray's bill that night:

(http://l.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/00LiRVPUj.oZQIGmyM8DPA--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7cT04NTt3PTYzMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en-GB/blogs/tram-lines/barbill.jpg)
He did alright there. That is a light bill for 30 people. Mustn't have been many other Jocks in the party.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: rodney trotter on September 11, 2012, 08:43:03 PM
Quote from: Forever Green on September 11, 2012, 12:10:26 PM
Andy Murray is one dour looking b**tard. I feel sorry for his lovely looking women

The Scottish are dour people in general though. Alex ferguson, much as I like Utd, Fergie is dour.
Paul Lawrie - Golfer. Stephen Hendry - Snooker. Chris Paterson - Rugby, and Charlie Adam who tried to play for Liverpool.

At least Murray could get past the semi final stage in a tournament, unlike Timothy Henman.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on September 11, 2012, 08:49:36 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on September 11, 2012, 08:39:18 PM
Quote from: ONeill on September 11, 2012, 08:05:47 PM
Murray's bill that night:

(http://l.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/00LiRVPUj.oZQIGmyM8DPA--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7cT04NTt3PTYzMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en-GB/blogs/tram-lines/barbill.jpg)
He did alright there. That is a light bill for 30 people. Mustn't have been many other Jocks in the party.

I read that the lemon soda was all Murray had.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on September 11, 2012, 08:53:10 PM
I think the 17 zesty martinis were Fergie's.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on September 11, 2012, 08:59:18 PM
That was some discount he got.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: BennyHarp on September 12, 2012, 07:55:06 AM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on September 11, 2012, 08:53:10 PM
I think the 17 zesty martinis were Fergie's.

Sean Connery's maybe?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on September 12, 2012, 08:59:48 AM
Quote from: BennyHarp on September 12, 2012, 07:55:06 AM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on September 11, 2012, 08:53:10 PM
I think the 17 zesty martinis were Fergie's.

Sean Connery's maybe?
I see what you did there  ;D
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on January 21, 2013, 01:23:51 PM
I see our adopted Irish girl Caroline Wozniacki didnt make it to the Quarterfinals :-(
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AQMP on January 21, 2013, 01:38:26 PM
Quote from: Orior on January 21, 2013, 01:23:51 PM
I see our adopted Irish girl Caroline Wozniacki didnt make it to the Quarterfinals :-(

Now that she's lost she's British. ;)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on January 21, 2013, 04:03:00 PM
Quote from: AQMP on January 21, 2013, 01:38:26 PM
Quote from: Orior on January 21, 2013, 01:23:51 PM
I see our adopted Irish girl Caroline Wozniacki didnt make it to the Quarterfinals :-(

Now that she's lost she's British. ;)

lol
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AQMP on January 25, 2013, 12:45:19 PM
Murray beats Federer in 5 sets.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on January 25, 2013, 12:47:30 PM
Excellent!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 25, 2013, 01:07:31 PM
Was a cracking display by Murray, will be up against it on Sunday. Will he be a Brit or a Scot come Sunday afternoon? No doubt Steven Watson will be there ready to throw him an Ulster fleg!!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on January 25, 2013, 01:42:01 PM
Murray is doing well at the minute but it seems that his recent run of succes would have a lot to do with the state of mens tennis at the minute.  Its been a long number of years since there has been as few top, top players who are really challenging for titles.  At the minute you really only have Federer who has been on the slide the past few years and Djokovic to compete with to win the majors.  Nadal has been out for so long that it is doubtful if he will come back as good as he was, he will probably suffer a similar fate to Lleyton Hewitt in that the way they both played the game ultimately causes several serious enough injuries which reduce the atheltic ability they require to play such an intense style.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on January 25, 2013, 02:12:59 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on January 25, 2013, 01:42:01 PM
Murray is doing well at the minute but it seems that his recent run of succes would have a lot to do with the state of mens tennis at the minute.  Its been a long number of years since there has been as few top, top players who are really challenging for titles.  At the minute you really only have Federer who has been on the slide the past few years and Djokovic to compete with to win the majors.  Nadal has been out for so long that it is doubtful if he will come back as good as he was, he will probably suffer a similar fate to Lleyton Hewitt in that the way they both played the game ultimately causes several serious enough injuries which reduce the atheltic ability they require to play such an intense style.

Nonsense. Currently, Nadal's injury aside, you have four players (yes, including Andy Murray) who equally competive across all surfaces and are likely to go down as some of the greatest in history. At the end of their careers, Federer, Nadal and Djokovic could be 1, 2 and 3 in any order.

I wouldn't rule Nadal out just yet - he's a far superior tennis player and athlete than Hewitt ever was. He was out for a lengthy period following his loss in the the French in June 2009, came back in the US in September and made the semis while clearly not in the best shape. In 2010 he went on to have the best year of his career. His knees and the tendonitis have been worries for years and I think the team are making 100% sure he's over it before bringing him back. If he comes back as expected in the next few months he'll hope to get a few hard court tournaments going in the States to find his was back before trying to gain competitiveness and confidence during the clay court season.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on January 25, 2013, 02:32:44 PM
Quote from: gallsman on January 25, 2013, 02:12:59 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on January 25, 2013, 01:42:01 PM
Murray is doing well at the minute but it seems that his recent run of succes would have a lot to do with the state of mens tennis at the minute.  Its been a long number of years since there has been as few top, top players who are really challenging for titles.  At the minute you really only have Federer who has been on the slide the past few years and Djokovic to compete with to win the majors.  Nadal has been out for so long that it is doubtful if he will come back as good as he was, he will probably suffer a similar fate to Lleyton Hewitt in that the way they both played the game ultimately causes several serious enough injuries which reduce the atheltic ability they require to play such an intense style.

Nonsense. Currently, Nadal's injury aside, you have four players (yes, including Andy Murray) who equally competive across all surfaces and are likely to go down as some of the greatest in history. At the end of their careers, Federer, Nadal and Djokovic could be 1, 2 and 3 in any order.

I wouldn't rule Nadal out just yet - he's a far superior tennis player and athlete than Hewitt ever was. He was out for a lengthy period following his loss in the the French in June 2009, came back in the US in September and made the semis while clearly not in the best shape. In 2010 he went on to have the best year of his career. His knees and the tendonitis have been worries for years and I think the team are making 100% sure he's over it before bringing him back. If he comes back as expected in the next few months he'll hope to get a few hard court tournaments going in the States to find his was back before trying to gain competitiveness and confidence during the clay court season.

of the four you are talking about, Federer is past his best and Nadal has been out for a long time as you mentioned.  The past year has seen Murray do better and I would say that its been made easier due to Nadals absence and Federer's slide.  Its really been Djokovic v Murray and apart from the top 4 there is a level playing field of averageness below them.  Compare that to 10 or 20 years ago when you had a lot of top quality players.  Nadal and Federer will go down as all time greats, Djokovic has a lot to do yet to get into that bracket but I feel he could well do it and Murray hasn't a hope of being remembered as an all time great.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on January 25, 2013, 02:48:08 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on January 25, 2013, 02:32:44 PM
Quote from: gallsman on January 25, 2013, 02:12:59 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on January 25, 2013, 01:42:01 PM
Murray is doing well at the minute but it seems that his recent run of succes would have a lot to do with the state of mens tennis at the minute.  Its been a long number of years since there has been as few top, top players who are really challenging for titles.  At the minute you really only have Federer who has been on the slide the past few years and Djokovic to compete with to win the majors.  Nadal has been out for so long that it is doubtful if he will come back as good as he was, he will probably suffer a similar fate to Lleyton Hewitt in that the way they both played the game ultimately causes several serious enough injuries which reduce the atheltic ability they require to play such an intense style.

Nonsense. Currently, Nadal's injury aside, you have four players (yes, including Andy Murray) who equally competive across all surfaces and are likely to go down as some of the greatest in history. At the end of their careers, Federer, Nadal and Djokovic could be 1, 2 and 3 in any order.

I wouldn't rule Nadal out just yet - he's a far superior tennis player and athlete than Hewitt ever was. He was out for a lengthy period following his loss in the the French in June 2009, came back in the US in September and made the semis while clearly not in the best shape. In 2010 he went on to have the best year of his career. His knees and the tendonitis have been worries for years and I think the team are making 100% sure he's over it before bringing him back. If he comes back as expected in the next few months he'll hope to get a few hard court tournaments going in the States to find his was back before trying to gain competitiveness and confidence during the clay court season.

of the four you are talking about, Federer is past his best and Nadal has been out for a long time as you mentioned.  The past year has seen Murray do better and I would say that its been made easier due to Nadals absence and Federer's slide.  Its really been Djokovic v Murray and apart from the top 4 there is a level playing field of averageness below them.  Compare that to 10 or 20 years ago when you had a lot of top quality players.  Nadal and Federer will go down as all time greats, Djokovic has a lot to do yet to get into that bracket but I feel he could well do it and Murray hasn't a hope of being remembered as an all time great.

Ten years ago, Sampras was finished and Agassi was in his twilight years. Federer, Hewitt, Safin and Roddick were the rising stars. Hewitt fell away fairly quickly after a blistering couple of years and Safin never had the mental strength to be the player he should have been. Roddick was never quite at the level required and while he probably deserved a Wimbledon title here or there, his game was limited.

In the last 20 years, the only players who can be considered on a par with the likes of Nadal, Federer and Djokovic were Agassi and Sampras. Sampras couldn't compete on clay and Agassi wasted what should have been his best years. Pat Rafter was the player who probably came closest to the pair of them.

Djokovic has very little to do to get himself into the all time bracket. He's been the undisputed best player in the world for nigh on two years and in 2011 put together one of the most spectacular season's in memory.

Federer may be past his best but he is still consistently excellent and on his day can beat absolutely anyone.

Murray's 2012 was largely due to Nadal being injured? Horseshit - Murray has beaten Nadal in his prime on multiple occasions, including Grand Slams. He convincingly won his first GS and picked up an Olympic gold - mere weeks after being devastated at losing to Federer in the Wimbledon final. While Murray hasn't had the sustained success of the other 3, the talent is clearly there for him to be a multiple grand slam champion. As for him "not having a hope" of being an all-time great, you're talking through your arse. He routinely hands out whippings to the other three and in turn, they are the only ones who routinely whip him. You have four absolutely outstanding players at the top and you claim men's tennis was in a better state in the 90s. Laughable.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Wee Roddy on January 25, 2013, 04:12:25 PM
That is a great posts gallsman. I agree entirely. Absolute horseshit
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on January 25, 2013, 04:54:23 PM
I didn't say Murray only won in 2012 because of Nadal being injured, but obviously it was a huge help because there would have been a good chance of them facing each other and Nadal has a brilliant record against Murray, only losing a few times whilst racking up a lot of wins. 

Throughout the 90's you had a group of players along with Sampras and Agassi challenging at the top on the various surfaces in mens tennis with the like of Edberg, Chang, Becker, Stich, Courier, Martin, Muster, Ivanisevic, Brugera, Rafter, Moya, Kafelnikov and Rios.  At the minute the standard of player is not as high, and my point was that Murray is in position now where he has only a fading Federer and Djokovic to compete against.  Djokovic has had a brilliant few years but he would need another few grand slams to be talked about as an all time great.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: muppet on January 25, 2013, 06:11:21 PM
Quote from: gallsman on January 25, 2013, 02:48:08 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on January 25, 2013, 02:32:44 PM
Quote from: gallsman on January 25, 2013, 02:12:59 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on January 25, 2013, 01:42:01 PM
Murray is doing well at the minute but it seems that his recent run of succes would have a lot to do with the state of mens tennis at the minute.  Its been a long number of years since there has been as few top, top players who are really challenging for titles.  At the minute you really only have Federer who has been on the slide the past few years and Djokovic to compete with to win the majors.  Nadal has been out for so long that it is doubtful if he will come back as good as he was, he will probably suffer a similar fate to Lleyton Hewitt in that the way they both played the game ultimately causes several serious enough injuries which reduce the atheltic ability they require to play such an intense style.

Nonsense. Currently, Nadal's injury aside, you have four players (yes, including Andy Murray) who equally competive across all surfaces and are likely to go down as some of the greatest in history. At the end of their careers, Federer, Nadal and Djokovic could be 1, 2 and 3 in any order.

I wouldn't rule Nadal out just yet - he's a far superior tennis player and athlete than Hewitt ever was. He was out for a lengthy period following his loss in the the French in June 2009, came back in the US in September and made the semis while clearly not in the best shape. In 2010 he went on to have the best year of his career. His knees and the tendonitis have been worries for years and I think the team are making 100% sure he's over it before bringing him back. If he comes back as expected in the next few months he'll hope to get a few hard court tournaments going in the States to find his was back before trying to gain competitiveness and confidence during the clay court season.

of the four you are talking about, Federer is past his best and Nadal has been out for a long time as you mentioned.  The past year has seen Murray do better and I would say that its been made easier due to Nadals absence and Federer's slide.  Its really been Djokovic v Murray and apart from the top 4 there is a level playing field of averageness below them.  Compare that to 10 or 20 years ago when you had a lot of top quality players.  Nadal and Federer will go down as all time greats, Djokovic has a lot to do yet to get into that bracket but I feel he could well do it and Murray hasn't a hope of being remembered as an all time great.

Ten years ago, Sampras was finished and Agassi was in his twilight years. Federer, Hewitt, Safin and Roddick were the rising stars. Hewitt fell away fairly quickly after a blistering couple of years and Safin never had the mental strength to be the player he should have been. Roddick was never quite at the level required and while he probably deserved a Wimbledon title here or there, his game was limited.

In the last 20 years, the only players who can be considered on a par with the likes of Nadal, Federer and Djokovic were Agassi and Sampras. Sampras couldn't compete on clay and Agassi wasted what should have been his best years. Pat Rafter was the player who probably came closest to the pair of them.

Djokovic has very little to do to get himself into the all time bracket. He's been the undisputed best player in the world for nigh on two years and in 2011 put together one of the most spectacular season's in memory.

Federer may be past his best but he is still consistently excellent and on his day can beat absolutely anyone.

Murray's 2012 was largely due to Nadal being injured? Horseshit - Murray has beaten Nadal in his prime on multiple occasions, including Grand Slams. He convincingly won his first GS and picked up an Olympic gold - mere weeks after being devastated at losing to Federer in the Wimbledon final. While Murray hasn't had the sustained success of the other 3, the talent is clearly there for him to be a multiple grand slam champion. As for him "not having a hope" of being an all-time great, you're talking through your arse. He routinely hands out whippings to the other three and in turn, they are the only ones who routinely whip him. You have four absolutely outstanding players at the top and you claim men's tennis was in a better state in the 90s. Laughable.

+1
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mouview on January 25, 2013, 10:24:37 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on January 25, 2013, 02:32:44 PM
Quote from: gallsman on January 25, 2013, 02:12:59 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on January 25, 2013, 01:42:01 PM
Murray is doing well at the minute but it seems that his recent run of succes would have a lot to do with the state of mens tennis at the minute.  Its been a long number of years since there has been as few top, top players who are really challenging for titles.  At the minute you really only have Federer who has been on the slide the past few years and Djokovic to compete with to win the majors.  Nadal has been out for so long that it is doubtful if he will come back as good as he was, he will probably suffer a similar fate to Lleyton Hewitt in that the way they both played the game ultimately causes several serious enough injuries which reduce the atheltic ability they require to play such an intense style.

Nonsense. Currently, Nadal's injury aside, you have four players (yes, including Andy Murray) who equally competive across all surfaces and are likely to go down as some of the greatest in history. At the end of their careers, Federer, Nadal and Djokovic could be 1, 2 and 3 in any order.

I wouldn't rule Nadal out just yet - he's a far superior tennis player and athlete than Hewitt ever was. He was out for a lengthy period following his loss in the the French in June 2009, came back in the US in September and made the semis while clearly not in the best shape. In 2010 he went on to have the best year of his career. His knees and the tendonitis have been worries for years and I think the team are making 100% sure he's over it before bringing him back. If he comes back as expected in the next few months he'll hope to get a few hard court tournaments going in the States to find his was back before trying to gain competitiveness and confidence during the clay court season.

of the four you are talking about, Federer is past his best and Nadal has been out for a long time as you mentioned.  The past year has seen Murray do better and I would say that its been made easier due to Nadals absence and Federer's slide.  Its really been Djokovic v Murray and apart from the top 4 there is a level playing field of averageness below them.  Compare that to 10 or 20 years ago when you had a lot of top quality players.  Nadal and Federer will go down as all time greats, Djokovic has a lot to do yet to get into that bracket but I feel he could well do it and Murray hasn't a hope of being remembered as an all time great.

Oh no, surely not. Nadal a fine player and virtually unbeatable in Paris, but Djoko has beaten him on clay, and his game relies so much on power that it was inevitable that he would suffer injury at some point in his career. I think Fed and Djoko are ahead of him in tennis ability and the latter has really moved into the realms of the great over the past couple of years, c. 2011 season and wins over Nadal in Oz last year and Wawrinka this year; a ferocious and durable competitor to say the least.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: JimStynes on January 26, 2013, 12:37:23 AM
http://tennishasasteroidproblem.blogspot.co.uk (http://tennishasasteroidproblem.blogspot.co.uk)

Some interesting reading
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Rois on January 27, 2013, 10:24:19 AM
So Murray is a set up and second is going with serve, though Murray should have taken Djok's first game. Really hope Murray wins this.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on January 27, 2013, 10:30:16 AM
Quote from: Rois on January 27, 2013, 10:24:19 AM
So Murray is a set up and second is going with serve, though Murray should have taken Djok's first game. Really hope Murray wins this.
I really hope he doesn't.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: theticklemister on January 27, 2013, 10:31:52 AM
If he wins he is British

If he loses he's Scottish
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Rois on January 27, 2013, 10:50:07 AM
I realize I'm in a tiny minority who always supports Murray.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: BennyHarp on January 27, 2013, 10:52:14 AM
Quote from: theticklemister on January 27, 2013, 10:31:52 AM
If he wins he is British

If he loses he's Scottish

This must be the most boring phrase in sport!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: theticklemister on January 27, 2013, 10:56:20 AM
Quote from: BennyHarp on January 27, 2013, 10:52:14 AM
Quote from: theticklemister on January 27, 2013, 10:31:52 AM
If he wins he is British

If he loses he's Scottish

This must be the most boring phrase in sport!

Still works my old mucker!!!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 27, 2013, 12:34:38 PM
Djokovic too good today, he looked fresher at the end than at the start.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: rodney trotter on January 27, 2013, 12:39:16 PM
Djokovic battled back when it looked like it was he was going to be 2-0 in sets, to make it 1-1 each. He was different class from then on. Top player.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: muppet on January 27, 2013, 12:48:35 PM
Quote from: Rois on January 27, 2013, 10:50:07 AM
I realize I'm in a tiny minority who always supports Murray.

There are a few of us.

Not good enough today though.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: rrhf on January 27, 2013, 01:15:43 PM
Right which of you fcukers shot the goose
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: muppet on January 27, 2013, 01:41:12 PM
Quote from: rrhf on January 27, 2013, 01:15:43 PM
Right which of you fcukers shot the goose

Bit early for the sauce rrhf?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on January 27, 2013, 02:37:41 PM
Quote from: muppet on January 27, 2013, 12:48:35 PM
Quote from: Rois on January 27, 2013, 10:50:07 AM
I realize I'm in a tiny minority who always supports Murray.

There are a few of us.

Not good enough today though.

I'm another Murray fan. Disappointed for him
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ballinaman on January 27, 2013, 02:40:56 PM
Quote from: Orior on January 27, 2013, 02:37:41 PM
Quote from: muppet on January 27, 2013, 12:48:35 PM
Quote from: Rois on January 27, 2013, 10:50:07 AM
I realize I'm in a tiny minority who always supports Murray.

There are a few of us.

Not good enough today though.

I'm another Murray fan. Disappointed for him
Yep, me too. He was playing great stuff until the middle of the 2nd set, looked unstoppable.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 27, 2013, 02:45:26 PM
Quote from: ballinaman on January 27, 2013, 02:40:56 PM
Quote from: Orior on January 27, 2013, 02:37:41 PM
Quote from: muppet on January 27, 2013, 12:48:35 PM
Quote from: Rois on January 27, 2013, 10:50:07 AM
I realize I'm in a tiny minority who always supports Murray.

There are a few of us.

Not good enough today though.

I'm another Murray fan. Disappointed for him
Yep, me too. He was playing great stuff until the middle of the 2nd set, looked unstoppable.

Don't think you can say he looked unstoppable, he never broke Djokovic the whole match.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ballinaman on January 27, 2013, 03:02:15 PM
Quote from: Minder on January 27, 2013, 02:45:26 PM
Quote from: ballinaman on January 27, 2013, 02:40:56 PM
Quote from: Orior on January 27, 2013, 02:37:41 PM
Quote from: muppet on January 27, 2013, 12:48:35 PM
Quote from: Rois on January 27, 2013, 10:50:07 AM
I realize I'm in a tiny minority who always supports Murray.

There are a few of us.

Not good enough today though.

I'm another Murray fan. Disappointed for him
Yep, me too. He was playing great stuff until the middle of the 2nd set, looked unstoppable.

Don't think you can say he looked unstoppable, he never broke Djokovic the whole match.
True, thought Djokovic didn't seem to be playing like himself more than Murray dominating...Djokovic bouncing his racket ect, was looking frustrated. Class entertainment for a Sunday morning.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 27, 2013, 03:24:04 PM
Quote from: ballinaman on January 27, 2013, 03:02:15 PM
Quote from: Minder on January 27, 2013, 02:45:26 PM
Quote from: ballinaman on January 27, 2013, 02:40:56 PM
Quote from: Orior on January 27, 2013, 02:37:41 PM
Quote from: muppet on January 27, 2013, 12:48:35 PM
Quote from: Rois on January 27, 2013, 10:50:07 AM
I realize I'm in a tiny minority who always supports Murray.

There are a few of us.

Not good enough today though.

I'm another Murray fan. Disappointed for him
Yep, me too. He was playing great stuff until the middle of the 2nd set, looked unstoppable.

Don't think you can say he looked unstoppable, he never broke Djokovic the whole match.
True, thought Djokovic didn't seem to be playing like himself more than Murray dominating...Djokovic bouncing his racket ect, was looking frustrated. Class entertainment for a Sunday morning.

It got me through overtime in work !
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 27, 2013, 06:50:26 PM
Murray played well, there's no doubting the class of Djokovic, 6 majors tells you that. Murray had a real chance at love 40 up in the second set and just let it go.

Murray will win a few more finals there is no doubt in that. Was a good morning watch, followe that up while watching my daughter play a tournament watch Leeds and had a few beers in the pavilion also!! Nice Sunday's
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on January 27, 2013, 09:58:33 PM
A tennis player with ropey knees may as well sit in the house. Nadal will never be the same again. Agree with lads above, Nadal might score another French Opens, Fed another couple and Murray and Djoker will probably divvy up the rest over the next 4 years or so. If The Big 3 consists Djokovic and Murray, who will take the third spot in a few years?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 27, 2013, 10:40:30 PM
Anyone think there is anything in the rumours about Nadal and steroids?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 27, 2013, 11:53:28 PM
I would have said that of the women a few years ago Minder, christ they were built like fcuk
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on January 28, 2013, 12:37:12 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on January 27, 2013, 11:53:28 PM
I would have said that of the women a few years ago Minder, christ they were built like fcuk
You're not wrong

(http://www.newsgab.com/attachments/celebrity-pictures/195205d1246116536-simona-halep-massive-chest-tennis-player-busty_simona_halep_defies_gravity1.jpg)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: yellowcard on January 28, 2013, 12:29:56 PM
Djokovic coming under scrutiny in the last few weeks in relation to his reputation as a marathon man which has developed in the last 2/3 years. This article was in The Times at the weekend and shows the laxed attitude to drug testing that exists in tennis.



Lax drug-testing casts undue shadow over centre court
Harman, Neil. Weekend Australian [Canberra, A.C.T] 26 Jan 2013: 40.

It would be easy for cheats to thrive in professional tennis

CONSIDER this hypothetical sketch. After a four-hour match at the Australian Open, in the searing heat of the day, the winner returns to his hotel room and is infused with blood, boosting his red-cell count.

He then takes human growth hormone to repair micro-tears in his muscles and returns to the court 48 hours later in a fitter state than he was at the start of the previous round, runs around and wins again. What could tennis do about it? As things stand, the answer is nothing.

At present, there is no proviso for blood-testing winners and a loser's sample will not be specifically tested for blood-doping unless the authorities request it -- which they do not. They will not say how many tests they do for HGH, which may mean none. Any doper is home and dry. The problem with tennis is not whether it has a cheating culture, but that if it does, unless there is a dramatic shift in approach, we will never know about it.

The sport has moved into realms of dynamism, physicality and athleticism that could never have been imagined 10 years ago and yet the anti-doping program, the responsibility of the ITF in the manner approved by the World Anti-Doping Agency, has not kept up with the times. When world No 1 Novak Djokovic said in Melbourne that he had had one blood test in seven months and in the next breath felt the doping regime was sound, it was a shocking mixed message.

Djokovic was quite astonishing on Thursday night, defeating David Ferrer, the world No 4, 6-2, 6-2, 6-1 in the first semi-final and saying that he is playing the best tennis of his career. "Tonight I just played an incredible match. I don't expect this," he said. Only four days ago, he was taken to the brink in 5hr 2min by Stanislas Wawrinka, of Switzerland, and won 12-10 in the fifth set. In the next two matches, played in the space of 48 hours, he defeated Tomas Berdych, the world No 5, for the loss of 12 games, and the No 4, dropping five.

He is playing like a super-human and knows that people are questioning how he delivers time after time. He deserves the right for the sport to declare him -- and everyone -- unequivocally clean.

Djokovic would be right to be concerned with the laxity of the anti-doping procedures -- he should have had 10 tests in the seven months in which they stuck a needle into his arm once -- and he should also be pointing to the leaders in the sport and asking why more is not done, not simply to be satisfied that they always know where he is.

The Lance Armstrong scandal has every sport rattled and none more so than this one. The new in-word is recovery. There is almost as much discussion about what a player does when no one sees them as what they are achieving when the cameras are on them.

Today, a sense that tennis players simply do not dope pervades the sport's thinking. That is entirely wrongheaded. "The implication that greatness is compromised just because it's great is the biggest disservice you can do," said Justin Gimelstob, a player representative on the ATP board. "You could not do anything more damaging than imply that someone's hard work and talent is artificially enhanced." But only if tennis can be sure that there is no reason for anyone to imply anything will the implications cease.

It is time that Djokovic, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray took a decisive lead and demanded action. They need to tell the ITF it is its duty to put in place the finest system that money can buy and do the tests that will catch offenders. The anti-doping budget last year was $US1.8 million ($1.7m) and yet there was a $US300,000 underspend. How can that happen? That would pay for 500 decent blood-doping tests and then the sport would really know where it stood.

And how about freezing the blood and urine samples taken from this moment on and keeping them for a decade? If players know that the present quality of testing will not catch them because they are using something undetectable, they would be spooked by the thought of having their samples kept and retrospectively tested at any time in 10 years.

An anti-doping expert told The Times this week: "The storing of samples and publicly pronouncing that you are storing them is one of the biggest deterrents to doping in sport. The next test could be beaten, but it would be hard to beat a decade's advances in technology. It's in a laboratory somewhere -- a ticking time bomb."

Tennis has a global prize-money fund of $US500m, its popularity more profound than it has ever been. Imagine the crushing blow to the sport's prestige should one of the best in the sport be found to have been enhancing their performance.

Any increase in funding should be seen as an insurance policy to protect that astonishing level of investment. It is not about how much is spent: the UCI, cycling's governing body, spent $US5m a year and look what it got -- the Armstrong travesty. It is about how you execute the program with the money at your disposal. And the core of anti-doping is about protecting the reputation of clean athletes as much as it is catching the cheats.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on September 08, 2013, 10:37:09 PM
Two sweaty girls knocking the pan out of each other right now, on Sky Sports 1
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: muppet on September 08, 2013, 10:44:13 PM
Quote from: Orior on September 08, 2013, 10:37:09 PM
Two sweaty girls knocking the pan out of each other right now, on Sky Sports 1

Watching on CBS, in Dublin.  :D
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on September 09, 2013, 09:41:42 AM
Can't wait for Rafa-Djokovic tonight. Nadal has been phenomenal on hard courts this year, looks to be moving freely and isn't wearing tape on his knees for the for the first time in a long time. Would be slightly worried Nadal might be a bit undercooked after Gasquet offered little in the semi-final.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: muppet on September 09, 2013, 07:15:50 PM
Quote from: gallsman on September 09, 2013, 09:41:42 AM
Can't wait for Rafa-Djokovic tonight. Nadal has been phenomenal on hard courts this year, looks to be moving freely and isn't wearing tape on his knees for the for the first time in a long time. Would be slightly worried Nadal might be a bit undercooked after Gasquet offered little in the semi-final.

Yea, he is untested and hasn't beaten anyone of note in this year's Championship.  ;D
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on September 09, 2013, 11:02:11 PM
Quote from: muppet on September 09, 2013, 07:15:50 PM
Quote from: gallsman on September 09, 2013, 09:41:42 AM
Can't wait for Rafa-Djokovic tonight. Nadal has been phenomenal on hard courts this year, looks to be moving freely and isn't wearing tape on his knees for the for the first time in a long time. Would be slightly worried Nadal might be a bit undercooked after Gasquet offered little in the semi-final.

Yea, he is untested and hasn't beaten anyone of note in this year's Championship.  ;D

The point I was making was that he'd steamrollered everyone which, no mtter how good you're playing, doesn't prepare you for Djokovic. Djokovic was taken to the absolute limit by Wawrinka. Rafa hadn't even dropped serve until Gasquet took one off him.

Looking good at the minute though  :)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Syferus on September 10, 2013, 09:49:48 AM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on January 27, 2013, 09:58:33 PM
A tennis player with ropey knees may as well sit in the house. Nadal will never be the same again. Agree with lads above, Nadal might score another French Opens, Fed another couple and Murray and Djoker will probably divvy up the rest over the next 4 years or so. If The Big 3 consists Djokovic and Murray, who will take the third spot in a few years?

Not a bad year for a lad with fücked knees, eh?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: moysider on September 10, 2013, 10:20:21 AM

Nadal is transformed. Losing all that bulk has done his knees no harm.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on September 10, 2013, 11:39:55 AM
Absolutely delighted. The ninth game of the 3rd was obviously the turning point. Coming back from 0-40 down (heart was in mouth when he tripped over himself) seemed to just take it out of Djokovic and the resistance and form he'd mustered in the second and first half of the third sets crumbled.

13 Slams and only just turned 27. New love of hard courts and playing without tape on his knees for first time in years. Probably odds on to match and break Federer's record of 17, assuming Fed doesn't add to his.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on September 10, 2013, 01:20:42 PM
Quote from: gallsman on September 10, 2013, 11:39:55 AM
Absolutely delighted. The ninth game of the 3rd was obviously the turning point. Coming back from 0-40 down (heart was in mouth when he tripped over himself) seemed to just take it out of Djokovic and the resistance and form he'd mustered in the second and first half of the third sets crumbled.

13 Slams and only just turned 27. New love of hard courts and playing without tape on his knees for first time in years. Probably odds on to match and break Federer's record of 17, assuming Fed doesn't add to his.

Barring injury Nadal should at least get the 17, he is basically a cert for the French and I'm sure he will be fired up for Wimbledon given his recent performances/absences there.  Not long to the Aussie Open now and if he keeps playing on the hard courts the way he has been this year he will be favourite for that one too.  I think Federer could win another one yet though.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on September 10, 2013, 01:55:27 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on September 10, 2013, 01:20:42 PM
Quote from: gallsman on September 10, 2013, 11:39:55 AM
Absolutely delighted. The ninth game of the 3rd was obviously the turning point. Coming back from 0-40 down (heart was in mouth when he tripped over himself) seemed to just take it out of Djokovic and the resistance and form he'd mustered in the second and first half of the third sets crumbled.

13 Slams and only just turned 27. New love of hard courts and playing without tape on his knees for first time in years. Probably odds on to match and break Federer's record of 17, assuming Fed doesn't add to his.

Barring injury Nadal should at least get the 17, he is basically a cert for the French and I'm sure he will be fired up for Wimbledon given his recent performances/absences there.  Not long to the Aussie Open now and if he keeps playing on the hard courts the way he has been this year he will be favourite for that one too.  I think Federer could win another one yet though.

I think that for Fed to win one these days, he'll need big slip ups from Nadal, Djokovic and Murray. I can't see him beating two of them on his way to a Slam when he'll also have to get past the like of Berdych, Del Potro and Wawrinka. Nadal will shift focus to the World Tour Finals in London as he's never won them. He'll likely be World No. 1 by that stage and if he wins, will be a red hot favourite for the Aussie Open.

Djokovic yesterday reminded me of Nadal against him in 2011. Doing the same things that made him great and the top player in the world and, as the Americans say, "executing", albeit with a lot of unforced errors. Nadal has changed his game though and has found a bit of a formula that Djokovic can't quite work out. Considering his dominance since 2011, two slams out of the last 8 is a poor return for him. Think he needs to go back to the drawing board the way Rafa has done this year and did in 2010 after his injury in '09.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on September 10, 2013, 01:58:32 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on September 10, 2013, 01:20:42 PM
he is basically a cert for the French

I wouldn't necessarily agree with that btw. Djokovic beat him in the Monte Carlo final this year and their semi at Roland Garros could have gone either way. Assuming both are fit, I can't see anyone threatening either of them on clay.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on September 10, 2013, 03:55:37 PM
Quote from: gallsman on September 10, 2013, 01:58:32 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on September 10, 2013, 01:20:42 PM
he is basically a cert for the French

I wouldn't necessarily agree with that btw. Djokovic beat him in the Monte Carlo final this year and their semi at Roland Garros could have gone either way. Assuming both are fit, I can't see anyone threatening either of them on clay.

Djokovic did well to beat him in MC but in retrospect Nadal wasn;t long back at that stage or even when he played the French.  I definitely see him winning another 3 or 4 French Opens alone. 
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mouview on September 10, 2013, 10:01:55 PM
Nadal a very fine player without doubt, but even should he beat Fed's record I still think Fed (and Djokovic) are better tennis players. Nadal relies to a large extent on power whereas the others are more shot makers and have more variety to their games.

The '08 Wimbledon final will never be forgotten though; 2 men absolutely in the zone. One of the greatest finals in any sport I've ever seen.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on September 11, 2013, 06:20:18 PM
Quote from: mouview on September 10, 2013, 10:01:55 PM
Nadal a very fine player without doubt, but even should he beat Fed's record I still think Fed (and Djokovic) are better tennis players. Nadal relies to a large extent on power whereas the others are more shot makers and have more variety to their games.

The '08 Wimbledon final will never be forgotten though; 2 men absolutely in the zone. One of the greatest finals in any sport I've ever seen.

Some of the shot making Nadal made in that match (and the Australian in '09) is as good as anything Federer produced in his pomp. To dismiss Nadal as a bull is ludicrous. Nadal relies on spin more than power - other players hit the ball much harder and flatter than he does.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on June 04, 2014, 08:42:25 PM
Great win for Murray in the fifth set. Quite an amazing finish.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Hardy on June 04, 2014, 08:50:01 PM
Quote from: Orior on June 04, 2014, 08:42:25 PM
Great win for Murray in the fifth set. Quite an amazing finish.

Strange match. Great example of champions doing it when it matters, though.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: the Deel Rover on June 08, 2014, 06:58:10 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on September 10, 2013, 01:20:42 PM

Barring injury Nadal should at least get the 17, he is basically a cert for the French and I'm sure he will be fired up for Wimbledon given his recent performances/absences there.  Not long to the Aussie Open now and if he keeps playing on the hard courts the way he has been this year he will be favourite for that one too.  I think Federer could win another one yet though.

Well you were proved right Nrico . 9 French titles, unbelievable Jeff .   
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on June 09, 2014, 12:14:20 PM
Be interesting to see if he can turn up at Wimbledon this time after his disasters the last two years. He'll be top seed but Djokovic will start as favourite. Murray will be in with a serious shout too.

Interesting to see if Nadal actually plays Halle. His back was acting up on him and he had a brief exchange with Uncle Toni after the match that suggested all wasn't well.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on June 09, 2014, 01:46:02 PM
Quote from: the Deel Rover on June 08, 2014, 06:58:10 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on September 10, 2013, 01:20:42 PM

Barring injury Nadal should at least get the 17, he is basically a cert for the French and I'm sure he will be fired up for Wimbledon given his recent performances/absences there.  Not long to the Aussie Open now and if he keeps playing on the hard courts the way he has been this year he will be favourite for that one too.  I think Federer could win another one yet though.

Well you were proved right Nrico . 9 French titles, unbelievable Jeff .
Things you don't often see.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: muppet on August 22, 2014, 10:52:59 PM
http://www.rte.ie/sport/tennis/2014/0822/638838-mcgee/ (http://www.rte.ie/sport/tennis/2014/0822/638838-mcgee/)

James McGee qualifies for US Open
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Niall Quinn on June 02, 2015, 12:07:35 AM
He's been struggling with fitness and form this year, but Nadal at 4/1 going into the French Open QFs is a tempting price.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: topcuppla on June 30, 2015, 03:10:11 PM
What the f**k is it with tennis players toweling their face after every shot, even when they serve a f**king ace!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on June 30, 2015, 04:39:52 PM
Drugs.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: muppet on July 03, 2015, 02:14:42 PM
Quote from: topcuppla on June 30, 2015, 03:10:11 PM
What the f**k is it with tennis players toweling their face after every shot, even when they serve a f**king ace!

Yes and then there are those who ask for 3 balls before each serve, but fire one away as if to say 'WTF is this!'
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: TabClear on July 03, 2015, 02:27:53 PM
Quote from: muppet on July 03, 2015, 02:14:42 PM
Quote from: topcuppla on June 30, 2015, 03:10:11 PM
What the f**k is it with tennis players toweling their face after every shot, even when they serve a f**king ace!

Yes and then there are those who ask for 3 balls before each serve, but fire one away as if to say 'WTF is this!'

I assume it's something to do with pressure or how hard the ball feels.  Have you ever practiced 45s and noticed a difference between ball?

Tom Brady  does it for the New England Patriots 😉😉
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: muppet on July 03, 2015, 06:03:15 PM
Quote from: TabClear on July 03, 2015, 02:27:53 PM
Quote from: muppet on July 03, 2015, 02:14:42 PM
Quote from: topcuppla on June 30, 2015, 03:10:11 PM
What the f**k is it with tennis players toweling their face after every shot, even when they serve a f**king ace!

Yes and then there are those who ask for 3 balls before each serve, but fire one away as if to say 'WTF is this!'

I assume it's something to do with pressure or how hard the ball feels.  Have you ever practiced 45s and noticed a difference between ball?

Tom Brady  does it for the New England Patriots 😉😉

If you notice pressure between you balls kicking 45s, then you are using the wrong leg.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: SHEEDY on July 03, 2015, 07:38:54 PM
Unreal performance by heather watson, so unlucky, but yet again Serena williams shows why she is one of the greatest ever female tennis players.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on July 06, 2015, 08:10:18 PM
It's opening up nicely for Murray. Nadal, Ferrer & Tsonga all gone from his side of the draw.
Djokovic is two sets down at the minute as well.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on July 10, 2015, 06:26:32 PM
Federer is some pup
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Over the Bar on July 10, 2015, 07:50:10 PM
Murray got his @$$ handed to him by a man who was winning Wimbledon when he was still at school.   He's the Dublin of tennis in that if you invest enough money you may buy a few majors but no-one really sees past the initial financial advantage.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 11, 2015, 02:13:01 PM
Quote from: Over the Bar on July 10, 2015, 07:50:10 PM
Murray got his @$$ handed to him by a man who was winning Wimbledon when he was still at school.   He's the Dublin of tennis in that if you invest enough money you may buy a few majors but no-one really sees past the initial financial advantage.

Federer is one of the best players tennis has ever seen... To be beaten 3 sets to love by him is not unusual... His game yesterday was fantastic cant wait for final.... As for Murray to have two major wins plus a gold medal while these players are about is big credit to him and not to be sniffed at..

This woman Williams is the real deal best ladies player (after today) that's ever played but id like to see this girl have a go at her
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 11, 2015, 03:39:05 PM
The Williams ma is hard to watch when they pan to the box!!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Wildweasel74 on July 11, 2015, 06:26:55 PM
Federer the best male player i have ever seen and i seen them all going back to the very early 80`s, the difficulty in comparison, is carbon graphite rackets compared to the wooden ones, that's what makes comparsion  of elite players from different eras hard to judge but i think hes the best. His better days are behind him though, surprised he got to the final.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 11, 2015, 06:37:56 PM
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 11, 2015, 06:26:55 PM
Federer the best male palyer i have ever seen and i seen them all going back to the very early 80`s, the difficulty in comparison, is carbon graphite rackets compared to the wooden ones, that's what makes comparsion  of elite palyers from different eras hard to judge but i think hes the best. His better days are behind him though, surprised he got to the final.

The athleticism is greater to, and like most sports that's always going to change, as for the racket's yes different also, just like golf but you cant deny the skill they have also, the range of shots Federer has is what's makes him different... He's second seed for a reason, and proved that... Whether he can overcome the power and fitness of Novac well that what we'll see tomorrow...
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ballinaman on July 11, 2015, 06:39:40 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 11, 2015, 06:37:56 PM
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 11, 2015, 06:26:55 PM
Federer the best male palyer i have ever seen and i seen them all going back to the very early 80`s, the difficulty in comparison, is carbon graphite rackets compared to the wooden ones, that's what makes comparsion  of elite palyers from different eras hard to judge but i think hes the best. His better days are behind him though, surprised he got to the final.

The athleticism is greater to, and like most sports that's always going to change, as for the racket's yes different also, just like golf but you cant deny the skill they have also, the range of shots Federer has is what's makes him different... He's second seed for a reason, and proved that... Whether he can overcome the power and fitness of Novac well that what we'll see tomorrow...
Yeah and the amount of doping at elite level would have changed too I'd say  8)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on July 11, 2015, 10:19:16 PM
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 11, 2015, 06:26:55 PM
Federer the best male palyer i have ever seen and i seen them all going back to the very early 80`s, the difficulty in comparison, is carbon graphite rackets compared to the wooden ones, that's what makes comparsion  of elite palyers from different eras hard to judge but i think hes the best. His better days are behind him though, surprised he got to the final.

Sampras for me.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on July 11, 2015, 10:20:59 PM
Hingis looking well this evening.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on July 11, 2015, 10:38:22 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 11, 2015, 10:20:59 PM
Hingis looking well this evening.

Fine woman.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: pullhard on July 11, 2015, 10:47:49 PM
Quote from: ONeill on June 30, 2015, 04:39:52 PM
Drugs.

your not far off
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: pullhard on July 11, 2015, 10:51:11 PM
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 11, 2015, 06:26:55 PM
Federer the best male palyer i have ever seen and i seen them all going back to the very early 80`s, the difficulty in comparison, is carbon graphite rackets compared to the wooden ones, that's what makes comparsion  of elite palyers from different eras hard to judge but i think hes the best. His better days are behind him though, surprised he got to the final.

He hasn't played this well in at least 5 years
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 11, 2015, 11:45:19 PM
Quote from: pullhard on July 11, 2015, 10:47:49 PM
Quote from: ONeill on June 30, 2015, 04:39:52 PM
Drugs.

your not far off

What is the rate of drugs on tennis?  Like every sport, Gaelic games included
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 12, 2015, 12:29:01 AM
Quote from: Over the Bar on July 10, 2015, 07:50:10 PM
Murray got his @$$ handed to him by a man who was winning Wimbledon when he was still at school.   He's the Dublin of tennis in that if you invest enough money you may buy a few majors but no-one really sees past the initial financial advantage.

This is utter horse shit. Murray is an exceptional tennis player and one of the best returners in the history of the game. The lad had back surgery last year for Christ's fake and is still in touch at the business end of all the grand slams. Disputing that is begrudgingly of the highest order.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on July 12, 2015, 12:33:54 AM
Quote from: ONeill on July 11, 2015, 10:38:22 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 11, 2015, 10:20:59 PM
Hingis looking well this evening.

Fine woman.
In amazing shape. Assumed she was older than 34 but I suppose she was a teenager when she did her main business.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 12, 2015, 12:36:36 AM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 12, 2015, 12:33:54 AM
Quote from: ONeill on July 11, 2015, 10:38:22 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 11, 2015, 10:20:59 PM
Hingis looking well this evening.

Fine woman.
In amazing shape. Assumed she was older than 34 but I suppose she was a teenager when she did her main business.

Don't think she'd turned 17 when she won Wimbledon. Had won doubles a few years earlier too.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Captain Obvious on July 12, 2015, 02:37:52 AM
Quote from: gallsman on July 12, 2015, 12:36:36 AM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 12, 2015, 12:33:54 AM
Quote from: ONeill on July 11, 2015, 10:38:22 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 11, 2015, 10:20:59 PM
Hingis looking well this evening.

Fine woman.
In amazing shape. Assumed she was older than 34 but I suppose she was a teenager when she did her main business.

Don't think she'd turned 17 when she won Wimbledon. Had won doubles a few years earlier too.
On a SKY interview she said at just 15 she won a tournament in Germany where the prize was a Porsche though couldn't drive it for two years.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: pullhard on July 13, 2015, 10:11:49 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 11, 2015, 11:45:19 PM
Quote from: pullhard on July 11, 2015, 10:47:49 PM
Quote from: ONeill on June 30, 2015, 04:39:52 PM
Drugs.

your not far off

What is the rate of drugs on tennis?  Like every sport, Gaelic games included

Dr Luis García del Moral - was linked quite heavily with Nadal, barca and real, then the cycling teams.
If Nadal was on the juice i'd imagine  the other lads were dabbling too, i'd imagine this would cross the gender divide too.

No idea about GAA
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: SHEEDY on September 11, 2015, 08:12:55 PM
massive shock in the us open as unseeded roberta vinci beat serena williams in semi final.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: heganboy on September 11, 2015, 08:38:34 PM
The end to that vinci williams game was unreal! Great great tennis
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 02, 2016, 02:58:46 PM
Novak under a bitta pressure, lot of breaks due to rain, doesn't look himself
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on July 02, 2016, 08:00:47 PM
Quote from: ONeill on July 11, 2015, 10:38:22 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 11, 2015, 10:20:59 PM
Hingis looking well this evening.

Fine woman.

Hingis looking well this year again too.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Keyser soze on July 04, 2016, 10:13:46 AM
Wtf??? that's two years running Rule 1 has been blithely ignored IRO Ms Hingis.....MODS!!!!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on July 04, 2016, 10:42:11 AM
Quote from: Keyser soze on July 04, 2016, 10:13:46 AM
Wtf??? that's two years running Rule 1 has been blithely ignored IRO Ms Hingis.....MODS!!!!

Careful now - someone might post a pic of the Williams brothers.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Fuzzman on July 05, 2016, 03:00:42 PM
I just happened to tune in to the Cibulkova v Radwanska match last night as I hardly ever watch tennis any more.
Wow what a match to watch although I only saw the last set which went to 9-7.

Couldn't help but compare the excitement of watching this very competitive tight match and how GAA and soccer matches pan out these days where the winner is stronger, fitter more of an athlete rather than a test of true skill.

Yes the William sisters and others have made it into a power game in lots of ways but here were two well matched players giving it their all and being brave playing some exquisite rallies. If you didn't see it yesterday I'd strongly recommend watching it on the Iplayer or youtube.

http://www.wimbledon.com/en_GB/news/articles/2016-07-04/cibulkova_edges_out_radwanska_in_thriller.html (http://www.wimbledon.com/en_GB/news/articles/2016-07-04/cibulkova_edges_out_radwanska_in_thriller.html)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on July 05, 2016, 10:59:12 PM
Jaysus Serena wud need a thicker bra.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: muppet on July 05, 2016, 11:49:03 PM
Quote from: ONeill on July 05, 2016, 10:59:12 PM
Jaysus Serena wud need a thicker bra.

If anyone mention a rule less than 2 they should get an immediate month ban.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: No wides on November 07, 2016, 02:03:53 PM
Young Murray now world number 1 - fair dues!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: PW Nally on November 07, 2016, 06:43:45 PM
Quote from: ONeill on July 05, 2016, 10:59:12 PM
Jaysus Serena wud need a thicker bra.
Not to be worn at SW19 any time soon..
https://youtu.be/LScyCUfROuI
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on November 07, 2016, 09:28:38 PM
Quote from: No wides on November 07, 2016, 02:03:53 PM
Young Murray now world number 1 - fair dues!

Good job - well done Andy.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: stew on November 08, 2016, 12:20:18 PM
Well deserved ranking, in any other era he would have maybe ten slams, he is the best in the world right now, no doubt about it.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on November 08, 2016, 08:26:16 PM
Quote from: stew on November 08, 2016, 12:20:18 PM
Well deserved ranking, in any other era he would have maybe ten slams, he is the best in the world right now, no doubt about it.

Sampras era?

Borg/McEnroe/Connors era?

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on November 08, 2016, 08:34:12 PM
Quote from: Minder on November 08, 2016, 08:26:16 PM
Quote from: stew on November 08, 2016, 12:20:18 PM
Well deserved ranking, in any other era he would have maybe ten slams, he is the best in the world right now, no doubt about it.

Sampras era?

Borg/McEnroe/Connors era?

Physically he'd have beaten that crowd, different styles and conditioning plus fitness... he's done fantastic against some craking players... Novak and Federer are greats.. to be on top of that crowd is some job
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on November 08, 2016, 08:55:58 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on November 08, 2016, 08:34:12 PM
Quote from: Minder on November 08, 2016, 08:26:16 PM
Quote from: stew on November 08, 2016, 12:20:18 PM
Well deserved ranking, in any other era he would have maybe ten slams, he is the best in the world right now, no doubt about it.

Sampras era?

Borg/McEnroe/Connors era?

Physically he'd have beaten that crowd, different styles and conditioning plus fitness... he's done fantastic against some craking players... Novak and Federer are greats.. to be on top of that crowd is some job

Obviously you can't compare but in my opinion Sampras a far better player than Murray ever was or will be, not even close
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on November 08, 2016, 09:16:45 PM
Quote from: Minder on November 08, 2016, 08:55:58 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on November 08, 2016, 08:34:12 PM
Quote from: Minder on November 08, 2016, 08:26:16 PM
Quote from: stew on November 08, 2016, 12:20:18 PM
Well deserved ranking, in any other era he would have maybe ten slams, he is the best in the world right now, no doubt about it.

Sampras era?

Borg/McEnroe/Connors era?

Physically he'd have beaten that crowd, different styles and conditioning plus fitness... he's done fantastic against some craking players... Novak and Federer are greats.. to be on top of that crowd is some job

Obviously you can't compare but in my opinion Sampras a far better player than Murray ever was or will be, not even close

Of course, Pistol Pete was outstanding as was the rest who won all of the Majors, but there is no denying Murray is at the top of the tree, strangley he reminds me of another former number one who looks after him Ivan Lendl
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on November 08, 2016, 09:23:52 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on November 08, 2016, 08:34:12 PM
Quote from: Minder on November 08, 2016, 08:26:16 PM
Quote from: stew on November 08, 2016, 12:20:18 PM
Well deserved ranking, in any other era he would have maybe ten slams, he is the best in the world right now, no doubt about it.

Sampras era?

Borg/McEnroe/Connors era?

Physically he'd have beaten that crowd, different styles and conditioning plus fitness... he's done fantastic against some craking players... Novak and Federer are greats.. to be on top of that crowd is some job
Sampras had 12 or 13 Majors in the bag by the time he was the same as Murray is now. Murray a good player but he's not even close to the same league as Sampras, Federer or Nadal.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: No wides on November 08, 2016, 09:40:56 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on November 08, 2016, 09:23:52 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on November 08, 2016, 08:34:12 PM
Quote from: Minder on November 08, 2016, 08:26:16 PM
Quote from: stew on November 08, 2016, 12:20:18 PM
Well deserved ranking, in any other era he would have maybe ten slams, he is the best in the world right now, no doubt about it.

Sampras era?

Borg/McEnroe/Connors era?

Physically he'd have beaten that crowd, different styles and conditioning plus fitness... he's done fantastic against some craking players... Novak and Federer are greats.. to be on top of that crowd is some job
Sampras had 12 or 13 Majors in the bag by the time he was the same as Murray is now. Murray a good player but he's not even close to the same league as Sampras, Federer or Nadal.

Yeah to constantly beat Andy Roddick is some achievement.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: BennyHarp on November 08, 2016, 09:44:31 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on November 08, 2016, 09:23:52 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on November 08, 2016, 08:34:12 PM
Quote from: Minder on November 08, 2016, 08:26:16 PM
Quote from: stew on November 08, 2016, 12:20:18 PM
Well deserved ranking, in any other era he would have maybe ten slams, he is the best in the world right now, no doubt about it.

Sampras era?

Borg/McEnroe/Connors era?

Physically he'd have beaten that crowd, different styles and conditioning plus fitness... he's done fantastic against some craking players... Novak and Federer are greats.. to be on top of that crowd is some job
Sampras had 12 or 13 Majors in the bag by the time he was the same as Murray is now. Murray a good player but he's not even close to the same league as Sampras, Federer or Nadal.

To be a true great you'd need to be at least competitive on all surfaces. I think I could have beaten Sampras on clay! Murray is competitive in every major, including 3 grand slam finals this year alone.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on November 08, 2016, 09:47:56 PM
Quote from: BennyHarp on November 08, 2016, 09:44:31 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on November 08, 2016, 09:23:52 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on November 08, 2016, 08:34:12 PM
Quote from: Minder on November 08, 2016, 08:26:16 PM
Quote from: stew on November 08, 2016, 12:20:18 PM
Well deserved ranking, in any other era he would have maybe ten slams, he is the best in the world right now, no doubt about it.

Sampras era?

Borg/McEnroe/Connors era?

Physically he'd have beaten that crowd, different styles and conditioning plus fitness... he's done fantastic against some craking players... Novak and Federer are greats.. to be on top of that crowd is some job
Sampras had 12 or 13 Majors in the bag by the time he was the same as Murray is now. Murray a good player but he's not even close to the same league as Sampras, Federer or Nadal.

To be a true great you'd need to be at least competitive on all surfaces. I think I could have beaten Sampras on clay! Murray is competitive in every major, including 3 grand slam finals this year alone.

Ah come on Benny
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on November 08, 2016, 09:58:40 PM
Quote from: BennyHarp on November 08, 2016, 09:44:31 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on November 08, 2016, 09:23:52 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on November 08, 2016, 08:34:12 PM
Quote from: Minder on November 08, 2016, 08:26:16 PM
Quote from: stew on November 08, 2016, 12:20:18 PM
Well deserved ranking, in any other era he would have maybe ten slams, he is the best in the world right now, no doubt about it.

Sampras era?

Borg/McEnroe/Connors era?

Physically he'd have beaten that crowd, different styles and conditioning plus fitness... he's done fantastic against some craking players... Novak and Federer are greats.. to be on top of that crowd is some job
Sampras had 12 or 13 Majors in the bag by the time he was the same as Murray is now. Murray a good player but he's not even close to the same league as Sampras, Federer or Nadal.

To be a true great you'd need to be at least competitive on all surfaces. I think I could have beaten Sampras on clay! Murray is competitive in every major, including 3 grand slam finals this year alone.
Take a redner there Benny. Sampras isn't a true great with his 14 majors...
;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: BennyHarp on November 08, 2016, 10:03:12 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on November 08, 2016, 09:58:40 PM
Quote from: BennyHarp on November 08, 2016, 09:44:31 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on November 08, 2016, 09:23:52 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on November 08, 2016, 08:34:12 PM
Quote from: Minder on November 08, 2016, 08:26:16 PM
Quote from: stew on November 08, 2016, 12:20:18 PM
Well deserved ranking, in any other era he would have maybe ten slams, he is the best in the world right now, no doubt about it.

Sampras era?

Borg/McEnroe/Connors era?

Physically he'd have beaten that crowd, different styles and conditioning plus fitness... he's done fantastic against some craking players... Novak and Federer are greats.. to be on top of that crowd is some job
Sampras had 12 or 13 Majors in the bag by the time he was the same as Murray is now. Murray a good player but he's not even close to the same league as Sampras, Federer or Nadal.

To be a true great you'd need to be at least competitive on all surfaces. I think I could have beaten Sampras on clay! Murray is competitive in every major, including 3 grand slam finals this year alone.
Take a redner there Benny. Sampras isn't a true great with his 14 majors...
;D ;D ;D ;D


I haven't heard that phrase in a long time.  ;D Anyway, explain his record in the French Open?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on November 08, 2016, 10:06:18 PM
French Open - according to Wiki one SF. That's a poor record but I'm sure you will admit he's a great. If you ever get a chance to play him on clay let me know and I'll call Paddy Power  ;D. Jim Courier got to the final of all 4 I think at one stage but I wouldn't consider him in the pantheon of greats.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: BennyHarp on November 08, 2016, 10:26:09 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on November 08, 2016, 10:06:18 PM
French Open - according to Wiki one SF. That's a poor record but I'm sure you will admit he's a great. If you ever get a chance to play him on clay let me know and I'll call Paddy Power  ;D. Jim Courier got to the final of all 4 I think at one stage but I wouldn't consider him in the pantheon of greats.

Feck me I'm sure even you got the sarcasm in my comment about beating him on clay.  ::) He was a bit of a flat track bully at Wimbledon in a poor enough era. That era also probably explains the Jim Courier success story. i know a number of top players struggle on clay but it's odd that such an utterly dominant player of his era was so utterly ineffective on clay. I mean he was barely competitive. I followed your idea of looking on Wiki and even the semi final he did get to in 1996 he was hammered 7-6 6-2 6-0 by Kafelnikov. How does that stack up?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on November 08, 2016, 10:30:28 PM
I think only a fool would think that Sampras wasn't a great, granted clay wasn't his thing as was Wimbledon wasn't Lendl's thing still a great player and former number one.. Murray has to be congratulated for doing so well from a place not known for producing tennis greats!!

Murray is unfortunately up against Novak a lot and when he doesn't meet him he's got Federer !! Nadal's ship has flown, he would have won a lot more majors had he not been blighted by injures... though I've always a question mark over him relating to enhanced performances!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: BennyHarp on November 08, 2016, 10:39:37 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on November 08, 2016, 10:30:28 PM
I think only a fool would think that Sampras wasn't a great, granted clay wasn't his thing as was Wimbledon wasn't Lendl's thing still a great player and former number one.. Murray has to be congratulated for doing so well from a place not known for producing tennis greats!!

Murray is unfortunately up against Novak a lot and when he doesn't meet him he's got Federer !! Nadal's ship has flown, he would have won a lot more majors had he not been blighted by injures... though I've always a question mark over him relating to enhanced performances!

My point is not that Sampras wasn't a great player, of course he was. I was more replying to a comment that Murray wouldn't be in his league. Murray is a great player in a great era. Slightly behind two or three of the best ever. I think Sampras would most likely be behind those three too.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on November 08, 2016, 10:46:25 PM
Quote from: BennyHarp on November 08, 2016, 10:39:37 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on November 08, 2016, 10:30:28 PM
I think only a fool would think that Sampras wasn't a great, granted clay wasn't his thing as was Wimbledon wasn't Lendl's thing still a great player and former number one.. Murray has to be congratulated for doing so well from a place not known for producing tennis greats!!

Murray is unfortunately up against Novak a lot and when he doesn't meet him he's got Federer !! Nadal's ship has flown, he would have won a lot more majors had he not been blighted by injures... though I've always a question mark over him relating to enhanced performances!

My point is not that Sampras wasn't a great player, of course he was. I was more replying to a comment that Murray wouldn't be in his league. Murray is a great player in a great era. Slightly behind two or three of the best ever. I think Sampras would most likely be behind those three too.

I'd agree with that, over all surfaces  ;)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on November 09, 2016, 08:45:39 AM
Crazy even comparing Sampras and Murray.  Murray isn't in his league.  I would actually say that the competition at the top at the minute is weaker than it was in the 90's.  Nadal and Federer are finished (and have been for a few years) and its really a shoot out between Djokovic and Murray and more often than not Murray loses out. 
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on November 09, 2016, 08:51:28 AM
Quote from: BennyHarp on November 08, 2016, 10:39:37 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on November 08, 2016, 10:30:28 PM
I think only a fool would think that Sampras wasn't a great, granted clay wasn't his thing as was Wimbledon wasn't Lendl's thing still a great player and former number one.. Murray has to be congratulated for doing so well from a place not known for producing tennis greats!!

Murray is unfortunately up against Novak a lot and when he doesn't meet him he's got Federer !! Nadal's ship has flown, he would have won a lot more majors had he not been blighted by injures... though I've always a question mark over him relating to enhanced performances!

My point is not that Sampras wasn't a great player, of course he was. I was more replying to a comment that Murray wouldn't be in his league. Murray is a great player in a great era. Slightly behind two or three of the best ever. I think Sampras would most likely be behind those three too.

Slightly behind ?? He has three slams,  Federer has 17, Djokovic has 12 & Nadal has 14
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on November 09, 2016, 09:34:26 AM
Each of them have won all four grand slams too. Murray has won two of them.

He's a great player but saying he's just behind that lot is ridiculous. In their primes, they battered him for fun.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on November 09, 2016, 11:47:06 AM
Easier comparing Murray with Wawrinka - both have 3 Grand Slams. Wawrinka has won French, US and Australian. Murray has won Wimbledon (2) and US.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Nanderson on November 09, 2016, 11:57:56 AM
Quote from: gallsman on November 09, 2016, 09:34:26 AM
Each of them have won all four grand slams too. Murray has won two of them.

He's a great player but saying he's just behind that lot is ridiculous. In their primes, they battered him for fun.
Hardly fair to compare Murray to them in their primes when Roger was in his prime in 06/07 Murray was just a fresh faced teenager, similarly during Nadals prime in 08 and 10. The one person he was really competing with was Djockovic as they are the same age. Djockovic benefitted from getting that early major on the board in Aus Open 2008. Even during Novaks prime in 2011-2015 Murray looked like the only one who could compete with him. And now that Murray is in his prime he would batter at least Federer and Nadal for fun.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on November 09, 2016, 12:01:29 PM
How long will Murray's prime last? Hitting his prime at 29 doesn't bode well. And it's a very fair comparison:

03-09 Federer beats him now.
07-13 Nadal beats him now.
11-15 Djokovic beats him now.

I imagine djokovic will still be the favourite heading into the Australian.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: screenexile on November 09, 2016, 12:42:07 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on November 09, 2016, 11:57:56 AM
Quote from: gallsman on November 09, 2016, 09:34:26 AM
Each of them have won all four grand slams too. Murray has won two of them.

He's a great player but saying he's just behind that lot is ridiculous. In their primes, they battered him for fun.
Hardly fair to compare Murray to them in their primes when Roger was in his prime in 06/07 Murray was just a fresh faced teenager, similarly during Nadals prime in 08 and 10. The one person he was really competing with was Djockovic as they are the same age. Djockovic benefitted from getting that early major on the board in Aus Open 2008. Even during Novaks prime in 2011-2015 Murray looked like the only one who could compete with him. And now that Murray is in his prime he would batter at least Federer and Nadal for fun.

Maybe not Federer but Nadal/Djokovic/Murray are the same age . . . Nadal has 14 Slams and Djokovic 12!

Murray has a long way to go to be compared in the same league!!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on November 09, 2016, 01:45:03 PM
I'm hoping Benny's fever from last night has passed after some strong drugs and a good nights sleep!  ;D
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on November 09, 2016, 01:47:28 PM
Quote from: screenexile on November 09, 2016, 12:42:07 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on November 09, 2016, 11:57:56 AM
Quote from: gallsman on November 09, 2016, 09:34:26 AM
Each of them have won all four grand slams too. Murray has won two of them.

He's a great player but saying he's just behind that lot is ridiculous. In their primes, they battered him for fun.
Hardly fair to compare Murray to them in their primes when Roger was in his prime in 06/07 Murray was just a fresh faced teenager, similarly during Nadals prime in 08 and 10. The one person he was really competing with was Djockovic as they are the same age. Djockovic benefitted from getting that early major on the board in Aus Open 2008. Even during Novaks prime in 2011-2015 Murray looked like the only one who could compete with him. And now that Murray is in his prime he would batter at least Federer and Nadal for fun.

Maybe not Federer but Nadal/Djokovic/Murray are the same age . . . Nadal has 14 Slams and Djokovic 12!

Murray has a long way to go to be compared in the same league!!

Exactly, Murray is the same age as Nadal and Djokovic.  Murray would probably not even have his grandslams if Nadal hadn't had the injuries he has.  Djokovic has a great record v Murray as well, especially in Grand Slams and I would put my money on Djokovic winning the upcoming ATP World Tour Finals again and getting back to number 1.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: No wides on November 09, 2016, 01:49:07 PM
Quote from: gallsman on November 09, 2016, 12:01:29 PM
How long will Murray's prime last? Hitting his prime at 29 doesn't bode well. And it's a very fair comparison:

03-09 Federer beats him now.
07-13 Nadal beats him now.
11-15 Djokovic beats him now.

I imagine djokovic will still be the favourite heading into the Australian.

Yeah imagine only becoming world number one in a sport at 29 - loser!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: No wides on November 09, 2016, 01:52:54 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on November 09, 2016, 01:47:28 PM
Quote from: screenexile on November 09, 2016, 12:42:07 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on November 09, 2016, 11:57:56 AM
Quote from: gallsman on November 09, 2016, 09:34:26 AM
Each of them have won all four grand slams too. Murray has won two of them.

He's a great player but saying he's just behind that lot is ridiculous. In their primes, they battered him for fun.
Hardly fair to compare Murray to them in their primes when Roger was in his prime in 06/07 Murray was just a fresh faced teenager, similarly during Nadals prime in 08 and 10. The one person he was really competing with was Djockovic as they are the same age. Djockovic benefitted from getting that early major on the board in Aus Open 2008. Even during Novaks prime in 2011-2015 Murray looked like the only one who could compete with him. And now that Murray is in his prime he would batter at least Federer and Nadal for fun.

Maybe not Federer but Nadal/Djokovic/Murray are the same age . . . Nadal has 14 Slams and Djokovic 12!

Murray has a long way to go to be compared in the same league!!

Exactly, Murray is the same age as Nadal and Djokovic.  Murray would probably not even have his grandslams if Nadal hadn't had the injuries he has. Djokovic has a great record v Murray as well, especially in Grand Slams and I would put my money on Djokovic winning the upcoming ATP World Tour Finals again and getting back to number 1.

What a bullshit statement made with no prove and just a dislike for the brit I assume?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on November 09, 2016, 02:41:56 PM
Quote from: No wides on November 09, 2016, 01:52:54 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on November 09, 2016, 01:47:28 PM
Quote from: screenexile on November 09, 2016, 12:42:07 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on November 09, 2016, 11:57:56 AM
Quote from: gallsman on November 09, 2016, 09:34:26 AM
Each of them have won all four grand slams too. Murray has won two of them.

He's a great player but saying he's just behind that lot is ridiculous. In their primes, they battered him for fun.
Hardly fair to compare Murray to them in their primes when Roger was in his prime in 06/07 Murray was just a fresh faced teenager, similarly during Nadals prime in 08 and 10. The one person he was really competing with was Djockovic as they are the same age. Djockovic benefitted from getting that early major on the board in Aus Open 2008. Even during Novaks prime in 2011-2015 Murray looked like the only one who could compete with him. And now that Murray is in his prime he would batter at least Federer and Nadal for fun.

Maybe not Federer but Nadal/Djokovic/Murray are the same age . . . Nadal has 14 Slams and Djokovic 12!

Murray has a long way to go to be compared in the same league!!

Exactly, Murray is the same age as Nadal and Djokovic.  Murray would probably not even have his grandslams if Nadal hadn't had the injuries he has. Djokovic has a great record v Murray as well, especially in Grand Slams and I would put my money on Djokovic winning the upcoming ATP World Tour Finals again and getting back to number 1.

What a bullshit statement made with no prove and just a dislike for the brit I assume?

I actually like Murray, but going by Nadal's grand slam record before injury hit him I would say that he would have encountered Murray in one of his 3 grand slams wins and more than likely have won.  But due to injury Nadal has missed a lot of tournaments and even the dlams he has been involved in have seen only a shell of the former Nadal.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: BennyHarp on November 09, 2016, 03:18:16 PM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on November 09, 2016, 01:45:03 PM
I'm hoping Benny's fever from last night has passed after some strong drugs and a good nights sleep!  ;D

I was never really comparing Murray and the three modern greats and people have jumped on a fairly flippant comment about him and Sampras being slightly behind them. Yes he's behind them in grand slams and will never reach their level but has been knocking on the door and competing with these lads for years. Age isn't the only determinant on a players development and Murray has been beating Federer and to a lesser extent Djokovic on an increasingly more regular basis in recent years. I was more concerned with your comment about him not being in the same league as Sampras, who in my view is also behind the three lads from the most modern era and also in my view would be winning a similar number of grand slams as Murray has had he been around then. Yes, its hypothetical but I think Murray's game is more rounded than Sampras. 
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Walter Cronc on November 09, 2016, 03:22:28 PM
Box seats for the ATP at the o2 next Tuesday. Sure I'll let ya's know who is better  8)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: No wides on November 09, 2016, 03:30:35 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on November 09, 2016, 02:41:56 PM
Quote from: No wides on November 09, 2016, 01:52:54 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on November 09, 2016, 01:47:28 PM
Quote from: screenexile on November 09, 2016, 12:42:07 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on November 09, 2016, 11:57:56 AM
Quote from: gallsman on November 09, 2016, 09:34:26 AM
Each of them have won all four grand slams too. Murray has won two of them.

He's a great player but saying he's just behind that lot is ridiculous. In their primes, they battered him for fun.
Hardly fair to compare Murray to them in their primes when Roger was in his prime in 06/07 Murray was just a fresh faced teenager, similarly during Nadals prime in 08 and 10. The one person he was really competing with was Djockovic as they are the same age. Djockovic benefitted from getting that early major on the board in Aus Open 2008. Even during Novaks prime in 2011-2015 Murray looked like the only one who could compete with him. And now that Murray is in his prime he would batter at least Federer and Nadal for fun.

Maybe not Federer but Nadal/Djokovic/Murray are the same age . . . Nadal has 14 Slams and Djokovic 12!

Murray has a long way to go to be compared in the same league!!

Exactly, Murray is the same age as Nadal and Djokovic.  Murray would probably not even have his grandslams if Nadal hadn't had the injuries he has. Djokovic has a great record v Murray as well, especially in Grand Slams and I would put my money on Djokovic winning the upcoming ATP World Tour Finals again and getting back to number 1.

What a bullshit statement made with no prove and just a dislike for the brit I assume?

I actually like Murray,but going by Nadal's grand slam record before injury hit him I would say that he would have encountered Murray in one of his 3 grand slams wins and more than likely have won.  But due to injury Nadal has missed a lot of tournaments and even the dlams he has been involved in have seen only a shell of the former Nadal.

Murray won US Open 2012, runner up in Australian Open 2013, won Wimbledon 2013 in same years Nadal won French Open 2012 / 2013, won US open 2013 and runner up Australian Open 2012, bet loads wish they had that injury!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: SLIGONIAN on November 09, 2016, 04:22:12 PM
Quote from: No wides on November 09, 2016, 03:30:35 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on November 09, 2016, 02:41:56 PM
Quote from: No wides on November 09, 2016, 01:52:54 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on November 09, 2016, 01:47:28 PM
Quote from: screenexile on November 09, 2016, 12:42:07 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on November 09, 2016, 11:57:56 AM
Quote from: gallsman on November 09, 2016, 09:34:26 AM
Each of them have won all four grand slams too. Murray has won two of them.

He's a great player but saying he's just behind that lot is ridiculous. In their primes, they battered him for fun.
Hardly fair to compare Murray to them in their primes when Roger was in his prime in 06/07 Murray was just a fresh faced teenager, similarly during Nadals prime in 08 and 10. The one person he was really competing with was Djockovic as they are the same age. Djockovic benefitted from getting that early major on the board in Aus Open 2008. Even during Novaks prime in 2011-2015 Murray looked like the only one who could compete with him. And now that Murray is in his prime he would batter at least Federer and Nadal for fun.

Maybe not Federer but Nadal/Djokovic/Murray are the same age . . . Nadal has 14 Slams and Djokovic 12!

Murray has a long way to go to be compared in the same league!!

Exactly, Murray is the same age as Nadal and Djokovic.  Murray would probably not even have his grandslams if Nadal hadn't had the injuries he has. Djokovic has a great record v Murray as well, especially in Grand Slams and I would put my money on Djokovic winning the upcoming ATP World Tour Finals again and getting back to number 1.

What a bullshit statement made with no prove and just a dislike for the brit I assume?

I actually like Murray,but going by Nadal's grand slam record before injury hit him I would say that he would have encountered Murray in one of his 3 grand slams wins and more than likely have won.  But due to injury Nadal has missed a lot of tournaments and even the dlams he has been involved in have seen only a shell of the former Nadal.

Murray won US Open 2012, runner up in Australian Open 2013, won Wimbledon 2013 in same years Nadal won French Open 2012 / 2013, won US open 2013 and runner up Australian Open 2012, bet loads wish they had that injury!
Exactly Some rubbish spouted on here, federer nadal and Djokovic all faced easier opponents when they won the first slam, that is a huge break to get which Murray never had that luxury, also Murray always had the weight of a nation on his shoulders and Fred Perry legacy to break which is harder especially with the English media, Murray has a great record against federer 11-14 also beat him in 2012 Olympics final and Djokovic, remember too federer has huge crowd support which helps and gives an advantage, his record against nadal and Djokovic not as good, remember too Murray had operation in 2013 and after that rehab to come to this level is testamount to Murray, Murray has a tougher draw than Novak in the atp finals but should go very close and I expect him to break his Australian hoodoo in January, 3 slams , 2 golds singles , 1 Davis cup is an unreal achievement, and should be celebrated, I reckon he will win 2 slams next year and win at least 8 like Lendl
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on November 20, 2016, 07:32:10 PM
Murray on fire tonight but Novak not at the races either
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: bennydorano on November 20, 2016, 08:08:16 PM
Well done Murray, some run. No longer Novak's bitch either, new world order
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on November 20, 2016, 08:10:23 PM
Quote from: bennydorano on November 20, 2016, 08:08:16 PM
Well done Murray, some run. No longer Novak's bitch either, new world order

The grand slams will tell us if that's the case

More importantly though, will he win SPOTY?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: SHEEDY on November 20, 2016, 08:14:37 PM
brillant week of tennis by murray, well deserved win and well deserved to end the year as number 1.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: No wides on November 20, 2016, 08:25:24 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on November 20, 2016, 07:32:10 PM
Murray on fire tonight but Novak not at the races either

Toolbag Murray owned him.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on November 20, 2016, 08:27:22 PM
Quote from: Minder on November 20, 2016, 08:10:23 PM
Quote from: bennydorano on November 20, 2016, 08:08:16 PM
Well done Murray, some run. No longer Novak's bitch either, new world order

The grand slams will tell us if that's the case

More importantly though, will he win SPOTY?

Who else will win it? No standout ones to be honest, They'll never give it to Frampton (unfortunately) even if he wins early Jan
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: bennydorano on November 20, 2016, 08:30:35 PM
Nadal's place in the pantheon of greats should be asterisked as well. Allegedly THE major beneficiary of the destroying of Operation Puerto's bloodbags.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on November 20, 2016, 08:31:23 PM
Olympics year. Mo farah could well beat him. Ennis retirement year too could give her better chance.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: No wides on November 20, 2016, 08:32:28 PM
According to some here he's beat no one.  ??? :o ::)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on November 20, 2016, 08:32:56 PM
Quote from: imtommygunn on November 20, 2016, 08:31:23 PM
Olympics year. Mo farah could well beat him. Ennis retirement year too could give her better chance.

I was being sarcastic by the way, it see,s when any Brot wins anything, no matter how big the event is the first thing people wonder is will they win SPOTY. As if it's a bigger achievement
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on November 20, 2016, 08:34:33 PM
Quote from: imtommygunn on November 20, 2016, 08:31:23 PM
Olympics year. Mo farah could well beat him. Ennis retirement year too could give her better chance.

Was thinking that too, but, always a cloud hanging over Mo

Would love Ennis to get it, the SPOTY that is
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on November 20, 2016, 08:39:03 PM
 ;D

The gymnast guy whitlock too and maybe kenny the cyclist.

While some of us doubt mo i don't think the majority of british public too.

Murray has done great. He has taken so many beatings and still come back to keep challenging these guys. Incredible mental strength. Still not a major so counts for less but he has definitely stepped it up a lot and don't think he is a whipping boy any more.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: No wides on November 20, 2016, 08:47:32 PM
Quote from: imtommygunn on November 20, 2016, 08:39:03 PM
;D

The gymnast guy whitlock too and maybe kenny the cyclist.

While some of us doubt mo i don't think the majority of british public too.

Murray has done great. He has taken so many beatings and still come back to keep challenging these guys. Incredible mental strength. Still not a major so counts for less but he has definitely stepped it up a lot and don't think he is a whipping boy any more.

3 slams 2 olympic golds - i'd love a whipping like that.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on November 20, 2016, 08:49:48 PM
He has been at times in the past though but has shown the character to get over it and beat the big guys which is admirable.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on November 20, 2016, 08:53:43 PM
Quote from: SLIGONIAN on November 09, 2016, 04:22:12 PM
Quote from: No wides on November 09, 2016, 03:30:35 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on November 09, 2016, 02:41:56 PM
Quote from: No wides on November 09, 2016, 01:52:54 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on November 09, 2016, 01:47:28 PM
Quote from: screenexile on November 09, 2016, 12:42:07 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on November 09, 2016, 11:57:56 AM
Quote from: gallsman on November 09, 2016, 09:34:26 AM
Each of them have won all four grand slams too. Murray has won two of them.

He's a great player but saying he's just behind that lot is ridiculous. In their primes, they battered him for fun.
Hardly fair to compare Murray to them in their primes when Roger was in his prime in 06/07 Murray was just a fresh faced teenager, similarly during Nadals prime in 08 and 10. The one person he was really competing with was Djockovic as they are the same age. Djockovic benefitted from getting that early major on the board in Aus Open 2008. Even during Novaks prime in 2011-2015 Murray looked like the only one who could compete with him. And now that Murray is in his prime he would batter at least Federer and Nadal for fun.

Maybe not Federer but Nadal/Djokovic/Murray are the same age . . . Nadal has 14 Slams and Djokovic 12!

Murray has a long way to go to be compared in the same league!!

Exactly, Murray is the same age as Nadal and Djokovic.  Murray would probably not even have his grandslams if Nadal hadn't had the injuries he has. Djokovic has a great record v Murray as well, especially in Grand Slams and I would put my money on Djokovic winning the upcoming ATP World Tour Finals again and getting back to number 1.

What a bullshit statement made with no prove and just a dislike for the brit I assume?

I actually like Murray,but going by Nadal's grand slam record before injury hit him I would say that he would have encountered Murray in one of his 3 grand slams wins and more than likely have won.  But due to injury Nadal has missed a lot of tournaments and even the dlams he has been involved in have seen only a shell of the former Nadal.

Murray won US Open 2012, runner up in Australian Open 2013, won Wimbledon 2013 in same years Nadal won French Open 2012 / 2013, won US open 2013 and runner up Australian Open 2012, bet loads wish they had that injury!
Exactly Some rubbish spouted on here, federer nadal and Djokovic all faced easier opponents when they won the first slam, that is a huge break to get which Murray never had that luxury, also Murray always had the weight of a nation on his shoulders and Fred Perry legacy to break which is harder especially with the English media, Murray has a great record against federer 11-14 also beat him in 2012 Olympics final and Djokovic, remember too federer has huge crowd support which helps and gives an advantage, his record against nadal and Djokovic not as good, remember too Murray had operation in 2013 and after that rehab to come to this level is testamount to Murray, Murray has a tougher draw than Novak in the atp finals but should go very close and I expect him to break his Australian hoodoo in January, 3 slams , 2 golds singles , 1 Davis cup is an unreal achievement, and should be celebrated, I reckon he will win 2 slams next year and win at least 8 like Lendl

I would doubt the assumption that Federer, Nadal and Djokovic all faced easier opponents in their first slam. I'd say that when they won their first they would have been a lower seed than Murray when he won his first. There isn't a massive age gap between RN, ND and AM. The first two have 26 slams between them and Murray has the same amount as Wawrinka. It will be Grand Slams that they are ultimately judged on.

Murray could push on from here and dominate for the next couple of years. But he needs to start adding to his Grand Slam total, and there will be plenty out there aiming to shoot him down. Murray put a serious effort in the last couple of months to get the number one spot. Not sure if that'll impact upon him at the beginning of next year.

Of course he'll win the big one... SPOTY
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on November 20, 2016, 09:19:19 PM
Quote from: SHEEDY on November 20, 2016, 08:14:37 PM
brillant week of tennis by murray, well deserved win and well deserved to end the year as number 1.

+1
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: No wides on November 20, 2016, 09:24:34 PM
Quote from: Estimator on November 20, 2016, 08:53:43 PM
Quote from: SLIGONIAN on November 09, 2016, 04:22:12 PM
Quote from: No wides on November 09, 2016, 03:30:35 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on November 09, 2016, 02:41:56 PM
Quote from: No wides on November 09, 2016, 01:52:54 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on November 09, 2016, 01:47:28 PM
Quote from: screenexile on November 09, 2016, 12:42:07 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on November 09, 2016, 11:57:56 AM
Quote from: gallsman on November 09, 2016, 09:34:26 AM
Each of them have won all four grand slams too. Murray has won two of them.

He's a great player but saying he's just behind that lot is ridiculous. In their primes, they battered him for fun.
Hardly fair to compare Murray to them in their primes when Roger was in his prime in 06/07 Murray was just a fresh faced teenager, similarly during Nadals prime in 08 and 10. The one person he was really competing with was Djockovic as they are the same age. Djockovic benefitted from getting that early major on the board in Aus Open 2008. Even during Novaks prime in 2011-2015 Murray looked like the only one who could compete with him. And now that Murray is in his prime he would batter at least Federer and Nadal for fun.

Maybe not Federer but Nadal/Djokovic/Murray are the same age . . . Nadal has 14 Slams and Djokovic 12!

Murray has a long way to go to be compared in the same league!!

Exactly, Murray is the same age as Nadal and Djokovic.  Murray would probably not even have his grandslams if Nadal hadn't had the injuries he has. Djokovic has a great record v Murray as well, especially in Grand Slams and I would put my money on Djokovic winning the upcoming ATP World Tour Finals again and getting back to number 1.

What a bullshit statement made with no prove and just a dislike for the brit I assume?

I actually like Murray,but going by Nadal's grand slam record before injury hit him I would say that he would have encountered Murray in one of his 3 grand slams wins and more than likely have won.  But due to injury Nadal has missed a lot of tournaments and even the dlams he has been involved in have seen only a shell of the former Nadal.

Murray won US Open 2012, runner up in Australian Open 2013, won Wimbledon 2013 in same years Nadal won French Open 2012 / 2013, won US open 2013 and runner up Australian Open 2012, bet loads wish they had that injury!
Exactly Some rubbish spouted on here, federer nadal and Djokovic all faced easier opponents when they won the first slam, that is a huge break to get which Murray never had that luxury, also Murray always had the weight of a nation on his shoulders and Fred Perry legacy to break which is harder especially with the English media, Murray has a great record against federer 11-14 also beat him in 2012 Olympics final and Djokovic, remember too federer has huge crowd support which helps and gives an advantage, his record against nadal and Djokovic not as good, remember too Murray had operation in 2013 and after that rehab to come to this level is testamount to Murray, Murray has a tougher draw than Novak in the atp finals but should go very close and I expect him to break his Australian hoodoo in January, 3 slams , 2 golds singles , 1 Davis cup is an unreal achievement, and should be celebrated, I reckon he will win 2 slams next year and win at least 8 like Lendl

I would doubt the assumption that Federer, Nadal and Djokovic all faced easier opponents in their first slam. I'd say that when they won their first they would have been a lower seed than Murray when he won his first. There isn't a massive age gap between RN, ND and AM. The first two have 26 slams between them and Murray has the same amount as Wawrinka. It will be Grand Slams that they are ultimately judged on.

Murray could push on from here and dominate for the next couple of years. But he needs to start adding to his Grand Slam total, and there will be plenty out there aiming to shoot him down. Murray put a serious effort in the last couple of months to get the number one spot. Not sure if that'll impact upon him at the beginning of next year.

Of course he'll win the big one... SPOTY

Great post!!! If he was Irish you would be creaming yourself. He has done amazing fair dues.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on November 20, 2016, 10:36:02 PM
According to Paul Hayward of the Telegraph, Andy Murray, in talking about RF, RD & NS, has "seen them all off"

:-[
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: muppet on November 20, 2016, 10:45:57 PM
Regarding SPOTY, if Hamilton somehow ends up World Champion he could be worth a flutter.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on November 20, 2016, 10:54:06 PM
Quote from: Minder on November 20, 2016, 10:36:02 PM
According to Paul Hayward of the Telegraph, Andy Murray, in talking about RF, RD & NS, has "seen them all off"

:-[
ND?  ;)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on November 20, 2016, 11:13:19 PM
Quote from: muppet on November 20, 2016, 10:45:57 PM
Regarding SPOTY, if Hamilton somehow ends up World Champion he could be worth a flutter.

Can't see Hamilton winning it. When he won in 2014, it was a very quiet year for sporting success. No Olympics or World Championships in Athletics, poor performances in the World Cup for England. No stand out boxer. Sure McIlroy was 2nd and Pavey 3rd in the vote.

Murray has it wrapped up. His best year in tennis. The Olympians might challenge, but Murray should win.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on November 21, 2016, 08:21:57 AM
Murray has deservedly finished the year as number 1, and given the currewnt state of play there is really only Djokovic as a mjor obstacle in his quest to win more majors.  He hasn't 'saw off' Federer or Nadal, both these players were a level above Murray but one has had too many birthdays while the other has been ruined by injury.  Djokovic has been on some run the past few years and at his best is better than Murray, but on recent form he is a pale shadown of himself while Murray is in the form of his life.  Djokovic will get out of this slump though.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on November 21, 2016, 10:16:07 AM
Quote from: bennydorano on November 20, 2016, 08:30:35 PM
Nadal's place in the pantheon of greats should be asterisked as well. Allegedly THE major beneficiary of the destroying of Operation Puerto's bloodbags.

Aren't you the same guy who refuses to consider anything you consider a doping-related slight against cycling in general and Team Sky in particular?!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: No wides on November 21, 2016, 12:19:48 PM
Quote from: gallsman on November 21, 2016, 10:16:07 AM
Quote from: bennydorano on November 20, 2016, 08:30:35 PM
Nadal's place in the pantheon of greats should be asterisked as well. Allegedly THE major beneficiary of the destroying of Operation Puerto's bloodbags.

Aren't you the same guy who refuses to consider anything you consider a doping-related slight against cycling in general and Team Sky in particular?!

Would google translate give us an insight into what you are trying to say?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on November 21, 2016, 01:13:05 PM
Quote from: No wides on November 21, 2016, 12:19:48 PM
Quote from: gallsman on November 21, 2016, 10:16:07 AM
Quote from: bennydorano on November 20, 2016, 08:30:35 PM
Nadal's place in the pantheon of greats should be asterisked as well. Allegedly THE major beneficiary of the destroying of Operation Puerto's bloodbags.

Aren't you the same guy who refuses to consider anything you consider a doping-related slight against cycling in general and Team Sky in particular?!

Would google translate give us an insight into what you are trying to say?

Probably not for a thick **** like you.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: bennydorano on November 21, 2016, 01:34:57 PM
Ill informed rumour and innuendo is the benchmark  standard of doping debate, thought I'd join in.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on November 28, 2016, 07:40:47 PM
Quote from: Estimator on November 20, 2016, 11:13:19 PM
Quote from: muppet on November 20, 2016, 10:45:57 PM
Regarding SPOTY, if Hamilton somehow ends up World Champion he could be worth a flutter.

Can't see Hamilton winning it. When he won in 2014, it was a very quiet year for sporting success. No Olympics or World Championships in Athletics, poor performances in the World Cup for England. No stand out boxer. Sure McIlroy was 2nd and Pavey 3rd in the vote.

Murray has it wrapped up. His best year in tennis. The Olympians might challenge, but Murray should win.

Outside of Bale, Vardy and Murray, the rest are Olympic medalists! Murray should clean up ... was hoping Carl Frampton would have been given a chance but no.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: stew on November 28, 2016, 07:54:54 PM
Quote from: gallsman on November 21, 2016, 01:13:05 PM
Quote from: No wides on November 21, 2016, 12:19:48 PM
Quote from: gallsman on November 21, 2016, 10:16:07 AM
Quote from: bennydorano on November 20, 2016, 08:30:35 PM
Nadal's place in the pantheon of greats should be asterisked as well. Allegedly THE major beneficiary of the destroying of Operation Puerto's bloodbags.

Aren't you the same guy who refuses to consider anything you consider a doping-related slight against cycling in general and Team Sky in particular?!

Would google translate give us an insight into what you are trying to say?

Probably not for a thick **** like you.

Still hating all on all fronts gallbladder? Good man.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: muppet on December 20, 2016, 04:09:02 PM
http://www.bbc.com/sport/tennis/38379952 (http://www.bbc.com/sport/tennis/38379952)

Petra Kvitova 'fortunate to be alive' after potentially career-threatening knife attack
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: No wides on January 19, 2017, 11:32:53 AM
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/tennis/38673905 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/tennis/38673905)

Novak Djokovic: Australian Open champion knocked out by world 117 Denis Istomin!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 22, 2017, 07:45:45 AM
Murray out
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on January 22, 2017, 08:57:59 AM
A lot of the bookies/tipsters were promoting the odds for a Djokovic/Murray last week, as they were that far ahead of the chasing pack! Thought the pair of them would at least reach the semi finals. Federer and Nadal now have an excellent chance to extend their GS record. Wawrinka is well placed to win his 4th, or Raonic to win his first.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 22, 2017, 09:02:32 AM
Quote from: Estimator on January 22, 2017, 08:57:59 AM
A lot of the bookies/tipsters were promoting the odds for a Djokovic/Murray last week, as they were that far ahead of the chasing pack! Thought the pair of them would at least reach the semi finals. Federer and Nadal now have an excellent chance to extend their GS record. Wawrinka is well placed to win his 4th, or Raonic to win his first.

Federer will be doing well getting past Nishikoro
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on January 23, 2017, 09:04:27 AM
Fitness and age could go against Federer now though, be interesting to see what he is like after thon marathon the last day.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on January 25, 2017, 12:43:22 PM
Great performance from Nadal today. Paddypower now have Nadal and Federer as the two favourites. Wawrinka's three career wins against Federer have all been on clay, so Fed possibly nudging that one at the minute. Dimitrov a bit of an unknown quantity for a guy who was the heir apparent a few years ago. Has one SF to his name I think. Lovely player who can trouble anybody but given how Nadal pushed past a much better and more in form player in Raonic, it might be a step too far for him.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on January 26, 2017, 09:19:18 AM
A Serena-Venus final and odds on for a Nadal-Federer final. It's like we've gone back a decade.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on January 26, 2017, 10:27:58 AM
Federer losing his way a bit in the third here, looks like thon root Wawrinka is going to take this set.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on January 26, 2017, 10:53:36 AM
Why exactly is he a root?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on January 26, 2017, 12:21:23 PM
Federer does it. Remarkable achievement. If Nadal makes final (which is still a big if), I think he'd be far happier to face Federer than Wawrinka.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on January 27, 2017, 01:50:45 PM
Nadal comes through an absolutely epic five hour, five set against Dimitrov to set up the dream final.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: seafoid on January 27, 2017, 02:15:48 PM
I was talking to.a doctor who said Nadal would need knee replacements by age 50
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: TabClear on January 27, 2017, 06:29:17 PM
Quote from: gallsman on January 27, 2017, 01:50:45 PM
Nadal comes through an absolutely epic five hour, five set against Dimitrov to set up the dream final.

Great to see.  Two of the greatest of all time having another moment in the main stage.  I remember watching their wimbledon final epic in a holiday inn at Stansted airport. Was flying out early the next morning with work and sat with about 100 people watching it. Craic in the place was unreal. The bar staff said they had never seen as good an atmosphere in the bar for a sporting event.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AhNowRef on January 27, 2017, 06:45:45 PM
Yeah that 2008 final is the best final of any sport Ive ever seen .. unreal .... Both incredible players but I did want Federer to win as I think he plays the game with unparalleled panache  ..  he obviously didnt win but Nadal is class too.. & he's the ultimate athlete & contender..

Always found these 2 far more likable than Djokovic (and more recently Murray .. just because he's so bloody monotonous)

Mon Federer
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: stew on January 27, 2017, 09:01:37 PM
Quote from: AhNowRef on January 27, 2017, 06:45:45 PM
Yeah that 2008 final is the best final of any sport Ive ever seen .. unreal .... Both incredible players but I did want Federer to win as I think he plays the game with unparalleled panache  ..  he obviously didnt win but Nadal is class too.. & he's the ultimate athlete & contender..

Always found these 2 far more likable than Djokovic (and more recently Murray .. just because he's so bloody monotonous)

Mon Federer

Nadal has long been said to have taken performance enhancers, nothing has ever been proven but for some reason I cannot fathom I have nevervpulled for him since hearing that.

Federer to have one last day in the sun, fair play to both men, brilliant achievement.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gawa316 on January 28, 2017, 05:23:19 AM
Williams sisters in the other final...couldn't have wished for better finals
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on January 28, 2017, 08:04:49 AM
Quote from: stew on January 27, 2017, 09:01:37 PM
Quote from: AhNowRef on January 27, 2017, 06:45:45 PM
Yeah that 2008 final is the best final of any sport Ive ever seen .. unreal .... Both incredible players but I did want Federer to win as I think he plays the game with unparalleled panache  ..  he obviously didnt win but Nadal is class too.. & he's the ultimate athlete & contender..

Always found these 2 far more likable than Djokovic (and more recently Murray .. just because he's so bloody monotonous)

Mon Federer

Nadal has long been said to have taken performance enhancers, nothing has ever been proven but for some reason I cannot fathom I have nevervpulled for him since hearing that.

Federer to have one last day in the sun, fair play to both men, brilliant achievement.

Tennis has long been known to have a huge problem with drugs. The only thing I'd say is that if Nadal is/was on them, you can bet everybody else was too. Djokovic came through at the beginning of '08 but then developed a reputation for quitting and not being able to hack the biggest matches either physically or mentally. Suddenly, in '11 everything changed and he became unbeatable, even outlasting Nadal. I'm sure the vegan diet was entirely responsible for that...
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 28, 2017, 10:39:24 AM
Quote from: gallsman on January 28, 2017, 08:04:49 AM
Quote from: stew on January 27, 2017, 09:01:37 PM
Quote from: AhNowRef on January 27, 2017, 06:45:45 PM
Yeah that 2008 final is the best final of any sport Ive ever seen .. unreal .... Both incredible players but I did want Federer to win as I think he plays the game with unparalleled panache  ..  he obviously didnt win but Nadal is class too.. & he's the ultimate athlete & contender..

Always found these 2 far more likable than Djokovic (and more recently Murray .. just because he's so bloody monotonous)

Mon Federer

Nadal has long been said to have taken performance enhancers, nothing has ever been proven but for some reason I cannot fathom I have nevervpulled for him since hearing that.

Federer to have one last day in the sun, fair play to both men, brilliant achievement.

Tennis has long been known to have a huge problem with drugs. The only thing I'd say is that if Nadal is/was on them, you can bet everybody else was too. Djokovic came through at the beginning of '08 but then developed a reputation for quitting and not being able to hack the biggest matches either physically or mentally. Suddenly, in '11 everything changed and he became unbeatable, even outlasting Nadal. I'm sure the vegan diet was entirely responsible for that...

Maybe he copied Usain Bolts chicken nugget diet
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: stew on January 28, 2017, 10:54:55 AM
Serena has to be considered the best of all time at this stage, she is an incredible athlete and is an outstanding role model for young girls the world over, fair play to her and Venus, they are amazing women altogether.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on January 29, 2017, 10:18:23 AM
Great game. Nadal dominant in the 2nd. Fed in the 3rd (so far - could change). They seem to take breathers!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on January 29, 2017, 11:01:11 AM
Quote from: ONeill on January 29, 2017, 10:18:23 AM
Great game. Nadal dominant in the 2nd. Fed in the 3rd (so far - could change). They seem to take breathers!
Dunno if Fed has the juice for a 5th set. They've still got a few tricks though!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: BennyHarp on January 29, 2017, 11:58:51 AM
Looks like he's got the juice alright! This is very enjoyable stuff!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on January 29, 2017, 11:59:50 AM
Quote from: BennyHarp on January 29, 2017, 11:58:51 AM
Looks like he's got the juice alright! This is very enjoyable stuff!
Must have got a wee shot of something good on his medical break  ;D
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: BennyHarp on January 29, 2017, 12:04:42 PM
Looked like Nadal took breathers on the Fed serve for a few games after he broke him in the last.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 29, 2017, 12:19:01 PM
Fed does it, what a story
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on January 29, 2017, 12:19:17 PM
Some comeback for Fed. I thought he was fed and buried in that last set  :-X
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mouview on January 29, 2017, 12:21:56 PM
Incredible. Has Fed ever been more magnificent? Up there with his finest achievements.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on January 29, 2017, 12:23:07 PM
Bugger that. Utterly incredible drama at the end but it has to be said, over the course of the match, the higher standard of tennis came from Federer. Nadal had the advantage in the final set and uncharacteristically gave it up, but not without a fight. Federer earned those breaks and is a deserving winner.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: SHEEDY on January 29, 2017, 12:23:37 PM
Brillant by federer, 18th grand slam...some achievement to win so soon after 6 months out of tennis.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 29, 2017, 12:24:42 PM
Quote from: mouview on January 29, 2017, 12:21:56 PM
Incredible. Has Fed ever been more magnificent? Up there with his finest achievements.

I wonder will that do him ? With Djokovic off form he could hit 20 this year
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: StGallsGAA on January 29, 2017, 01:18:15 PM
Absolutely unbelievable. Approaching 36 and winning his 18th Grand Slam 5 years after his 17th!  A super human feat!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on January 29, 2017, 04:34:21 PM
First player to win three seprarate grand slams 5 times
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: stew on January 29, 2017, 05:22:02 PM
Quote from: Minder on January 29, 2017, 04:34:21 PM
First player to win three seprarate grand slams 5 times

Best ever, wow.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on January 29, 2017, 05:38:34 PM
Commentator: "So, Roger, what are the benefits of living in Switzerland?"

Federer: "Not many, but at least the flag is a big plus"
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on January 29, 2017, 08:59:54 PM
That was exhilarating stuff. There was a rally in the last set which was spellbinding. Fed won it, so Rafa aced the next serve. No idea how their legs held up. I ran up the stairs there now and near buckled.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: BarryBreensBandage on January 29, 2017, 10:20:10 PM
Quote from: gallsman on January 28, 2017, 08:04:49 AM
Quote from: stew on January 27, 2017, 09:01:37 PM
Quote from: AhNowRef on January 27, 2017, 06:45:45 PM
Yeah that 2008 final is the best final of any sport Ive ever seen .. unreal .... Both incredible players but I did want Federer to win as I think he plays the game with unparalleled panache  ..  he obviously didnt win but Nadal is class too.. & he's the ultimate athlete & contender..

Always found these 2 far more likable than Djokovic (and more recently Murray .. just because he's so bloody monotonous)

Mon Federer

Nadal has long been said to have taken performance enhancers, nothing has ever been proven but for some reason I cannot fathom I have nevervpulled for him since hearing that.

Federer to have one last day in the sun, fair play to both men, brilliant achievement.

Tennis has long been known to have a huge problem with drugs. The only thing I'd say is that if Nadal is/was on them, you can bet everybody else was too. Djokovic came through at the beginning of '08 but then developed a reputation for quitting and not being able to hack the biggest matches either physically or mentally. Suddenly, in '11 everything changed and he became unbeatable, even outlasting Nadal. I'm sure the vegan diet was entirely responsible for that...

What a game - this was one to show the kids what the sport of Tennis is about - we may not see such greats in a final again for another generation. Federer is the best I have seen, and I am going back to McEnroe, Edberg, Sampras, Agassi.

On the drugs issue mentioned above - I was going to post earlier that I found it interesting that since Federer called for the cheats to be outed (after Sharapova was banned), that Djokovic's form has gone to shite. At the time I thought this was a direct slant from Federer to Djokovic and, until today, Nadal. You just know that Murray is on nothing as he is so inconsistent and looks completely wrecked after any match he plays (maybe he is on the spliffs).

The reverence that Federer showed today when talking about Nadal makes me think that his demand on outing cheats was solely aimed at Djokovic, who, imo, is as guilty as a puppy sitting beside a pile of poo.



Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AhNowRef on January 30, 2017, 12:29:40 PM
Wow .. what a match  :o

When Nadal went 2 up in the final set I was thinking, ah feck here we go again, Nadals mental strength was gonna win the day again .... but no, Federer kept his composure and totally outplayed him .. even winning most of the long rallies which he never seemed to be able to do against Nadal in the past.... He just played brilliantly, his mind held up and his serve was lethal too ....

Delighted he won .. 2 great players but Federer No1 for sure .. 

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Hardy on January 30, 2017, 12:38:44 PM
Inspirational. I went out yesterday afternoon like a kid all fired up and ready to play like Roger. And sure enough I did. Roger Moore is 89.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AhNowRef on January 30, 2017, 12:39:44 PM
I have to say I thought Nadals call for hawkeye at the very end was a bit sh1tty ... sort of took the moment away from Federer a wee bit  :-\

a blind man could see it was in ...
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on January 30, 2017, 01:12:51 PM
Quote from: AhNowRef on January 30, 2017, 12:39:44 PM
I have to say I thought Nadals call for hawkeye at the very end was a bit sh1tty ... sort of took the moment away from Federer a wee bit  :-\

a blind man could see it was in ...

You could play that game about Ger taking a medical timeout before the 5th.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AhNowRef on January 30, 2017, 01:18:46 PM
Quote from: gallsman on January 30, 2017, 01:12:51 PM
Quote from: AhNowRef on January 30, 2017, 12:39:44 PM
I have to say I thought Nadals call for hawkeye at the very end was a bit sh1tty ... sort of took the moment away from Federer a wee bit  :-\

a blind man could see it was in ...

You could play that game about Ger taking a medical timeout before the 5th.

Ah no i dont think so .. they all take treatment breaks .. The Hawkeye call never looked out and sorta spoiled his moment ... No big deal though in the grand scheme of things..
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on January 30, 2017, 01:28:37 PM
Quote from: Hardy on January 30, 2017, 12:38:44 PM
Inspirational. I went out yesterday afternoon like a kid all fired up and ready to play like Roger. And sure enough I did. Roger Moore is 89.

Lol. So Double Oh is only a few years older than yourself?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AZOffaly on January 30, 2017, 03:26:36 PM
Don't watch much tennis any more, actually not since the days of my youth trying to copy Becker, Lendl and the rest in the tarmac court in Ferbane. For approximately 3 weeks, and then it was onto Pitch and Putt in time for the golf.

I watched the last few games there, and it was very enjoyable, but come here, has Nadal always grunted like lad suffering from eating too much 'binding' stuff, or is that new? Jaysus it's very hard to listen to. I remember your one Seles started that racket (no pun intended) back in the day, and it was sneered at, but is it common in Men's tennis now?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on January 30, 2017, 03:45:03 PM
Quote from: AZOffaly on January 30, 2017, 03:26:36 PM
Don't watch much tennis any more, actually not since the days of my youth trying to copy Becker, Lendl and the rest in the tarmac court in Ferbane. For approximately 3 weeks, and then it was onto Pitch and Putt in time for the golf.

I watched the last few games there, and it was very enjoyable, but come here, has Nadal always grunted like lad suffering from eating too much 'binding' stuff, or is that new? Jaysus it's very hard to listen to. I remember your one Seles started that racket (no pun intended) back in the day, and it was sneered at, but is it common in Men's tennis now?

Murray is at it as well. Must be a psychological aspect to it.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Asal Mor on January 31, 2017, 08:39:48 PM
Kimmage making the good point in the indo today that Nadal, Serena and Venus who were all outed in the Fancy Bears TUE lists have faced hardly any negative press unlike Wiggins whose legacy has been ruined.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on March 15, 2017, 07:31:10 PM
I see that Caroline Wasniaki has made it through to the quarter final of the tournament in Indian Wells. Which is good because all the other female competitors are dogs.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: TabClear on June 11, 2017, 06:43:43 PM
Rafa eases to La Decima. Incredible in the open era. His record at the French since his first match is Won 79 Lost 2!! And I'm pretty sure the two he lost were years he was struggling with injury?

Him and the Fed sharing the Majors this year so far.  Incredible and shows just how good those two were in their prime
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on June 11, 2017, 06:52:05 PM
Quote from: TabClear on June 11, 2017, 06:43:43 PM
Rafa eases to La Decima. Incredible in the open era. His record at the French since his first match is Won 79 Lost 2!! And I'm pretty sure the two he lost were years he was struggling with injury?

Him and the Fed sharing the Majors this year so far.  Incredible and shows just how good those two were in their prime

Injury let Soderling beat him in 09 and he subsequently missed Wimbledon. 2015 he just wasn't up to it against Djokovic.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: stew on June 11, 2017, 06:55:03 PM
Quote from: TabClear on June 11, 2017, 06:43:43 PM
Rafa eases to La Decima. Incredible in the open era. His record at the French since his first match is Won 79 Lost 2!! And I'm pretty sure the two he lost were years he was struggling with injury?

Him and the Fed sharing the Majors this year so far.  Incredible and shows just how good those two were in their prime

I always thought he was on the juice, he was impossibly quick and impossibly strong, if clean it is an incredible feat, to me he would be the best ever, that said the spectre of drug use is never too far away feom Nadal, that said, incredible job Rafa....... For Now.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Syferus on June 11, 2017, 07:49:20 PM
Quote from: stew on June 11, 2017, 06:55:03 PM
Quote from: TabClear on June 11, 2017, 06:43:43 PM
Rafa eases to La Decima. Incredible in the open era. His record at the French since his first match is Won 79 Lost 2!! And I'm pretty sure the two he lost were years he was struggling with injury?

Him and the Fed sharing the Majors this year so far.  Incredible and shows just how good those two were in their prime

I always thought he was on the juice, he was impossibly quick and impossibly strong, if clean it is an incredible feat, to me he would be the best ever, that said the spectre of drug use is never too far away feom Nadal, that said, incredible job Rafa....... For Now.

Yawn.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on July 04, 2017, 07:07:06 PM
I don't care what y'all say - Caroline Wozniacki is easy on the eye.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: punt kick on July 10, 2017, 08:33:09 PM
Nadal match some game.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Hardy on July 10, 2017, 08:35:19 PM
Quote from: punt kick on July 10, 2017, 08:33:09 PM
Nadal match some game.
Brilliant. Muller will trouble anybody in this tournament.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: punt kick on July 12, 2017, 04:27:15 PM
Quote from: hardstation on July 12, 2017, 03:46:51 PM
Stupid Jock.....it seems.

Did very well. Obviously troubled by an injury played on didn't call for physio. Lad needs a few months off.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on July 12, 2017, 04:42:38 PM
Muller bate.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: punt kick on July 12, 2017, 06:17:20 PM
Federer's to lose.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Sandino on July 14, 2017, 06:45:31 PM
Best tennis player at wimbledon is now 37 year old, get me a break!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: stew on July 14, 2017, 07:10:43 PM
Quote from: Sandino on July 14, 2017, 06:45:31 PM
Best tennis player at wimbledon is now 37 year old, get me a break!

I played the game for many years ad he is the best of all time, so no problem with RFED being the main man.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on July 14, 2017, 07:47:16 PM
Quote from: stew on July 14, 2017, 07:10:43 PM
Quote from: Sandino on July 14, 2017, 06:45:31 PM
Best tennis player at wimbledon is now 37 year old, get me a break!

I played the game for many years ad he is the best of all time, so no problem with RFED being the main man.
Think they meant Venus.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Wildweasel74 on July 16, 2017, 03:54:18 PM
So Fed picks up A 8th Title at 35, oldest man to do that from late 60`s i believe.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on July 16, 2017, 03:56:21 PM
What a player
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mouview on July 17, 2017, 12:13:16 AM
Brilliant player, but easiest title; won it almost by default, both Murray and Djoko injured and Nadal caught on the blindside (though Fed would've taken him anyway I feel).
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on July 17, 2017, 09:22:10 AM
Quote from: mouview on July 17, 2017, 12:13:16 AM
Brilliant player, but easiest title; won it almost by default, both Murray and Djoko injured and Nadal caught on the blindside (though Fed would've taken him anyway I feel).

Not as handy a run as the one Murray had to win last year.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: punt kick on July 17, 2017, 09:38:33 AM
Quote from: nrico2006 on July 17, 2017, 09:22:10 AM
Quote from: mouview on July 17, 2017, 12:13:16 AM
Brilliant player, but easiest title; won it almost by default, both Murray and Djoko injured and Nadal caught on the blindside (though Fed would've taken him anyway I feel).

Not as handy a run as the one Murray had to win last year.

FFS you can only beat who is in front of you.  Murray is an awesome player.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: screenexile on January 29, 2018, 02:01:04 PM
Quote from: mouview on July 17, 2017, 12:13:16 AM
Brilliant player, but easiest title; won it almost by default, both Murray and Djoko injured and Nadal caught on the blindside (though Fed would've taken him anyway I feel).

None of that's Federer's fault. Great to see a decent role model and likable personality winning again I always liked him.

Nothing better than watching him in full flow hes just such a natural player he's class!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 29, 2018, 02:21:42 PM
Quote from: Thastheball on January 29, 2018, 01:52:41 PM
What can one say about Federer, Number one sports man in the history of sport. has it all, skill, class, endurance, career span, GOAT in his sport, very likable, brilliant with the media, family man, in other words all you would want in a package.

Yeah oustanding, 20 titles is some going, he was coasting yesterday and then he had to dig himself out of a hole and the extra class told
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Therealdonald on January 29, 2018, 04:18:49 PM
In the list of the greatest sportsmen of all time, he definitely has to be up there in the top 5 at least and was said earlier, the grace and class he carries himself with is unbelievable.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: TabClear on January 29, 2018, 05:05:39 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on January 29, 2018, 02:21:42 PM
Quote from: Thastheball on January 29, 2018, 01:52:41 PM
What can one say about Federer, Number one sports man in the history of sport. has it all, skill, class, endurance, career span, GOAT in his sport, very likable, brilliant with the media, family man, in other words all you would want in a package.

Yeah oustanding, 20 titles is some going, he was coasting yesterday and then he had to dig himself out of a hole and the extra class told

I remember watching this match many years ago. Passing of the torch moment.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/in_depth/2001/wimbledon_2001/1418928.stm

Did nt realise Sampras was "only" 29 then. Think he won his last major in 2002 when he was 30. Just goes to show how incredible Federer (and Nadal's) longevity is.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Therealdonald on January 29, 2018, 06:25:58 PM
I'm not sure how to create a thread...is it a stretch to consider the last 20 years the Golden Era of Sports? Consider the main sports/sports events in the world.
Tennis- Roger or Nadal
Golf- Tiger
Soccer - Messi/Ronaldo/Zidane
Racing - McCoy
Boxing - Mayweather (probably not the strongest category)
Athletics - Bolt, Phelps
Darts - Taylor
Snooker - O'Sullivan
NFL - Brady
NBA - Bryant or Lebron
GAA - The Kilkenny 4 in a row/ Dubs atm

Add in Schumacher, the fat Ronaldo and I feel its been a real golden era for sports. Add in again Henman Hill and its consistent disappointment for bonus points.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: TabClear on January 29, 2018, 07:43:56 PM
Quote from: Therealdonald on January 29, 2018, 06:25:58 PM
I'm not sure how to create a thread...is it a stretch to consider the last 20 years the Golden Era of Sports? Consider the main sports/sports events in the world.
Tennis- Roger or Nadal
Golf- Tiger
Soccer - Messi/Ronaldo/Zidane
Racing - McCoy
Boxing - Mayweather (probably not the strongest category)
Athletics - Bolt, Phelps
Darts - Taylor
Snooker - O'Sullivan
NFL - Brady
NBA - Bryant or Lebron
GAA - The Kilkenny 4 in a row/ Dubs atm

Add in Schumacher, the fat Ronaldo and I feel its been a real golden era for sports. Add in again Henman Hill and its consistent disappointment for bonus points.

I know what you are saying but I would say accessibility and coverage have a lot to do with it. You can argue a lot about athletes from different eras who never directly competed with each other. For example Why Tiger above Nicklaus? Why Messi over pele? Mayweather over Ali?  Hendry over o Sullivan?

I do think it definitely is for tennis though. 3 of the top 6 slam winners of all time competing against each other largely in their prime is unheard of.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Wildweasel74 on January 29, 2018, 08:16:32 PM
I have nobody over Ali
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on July 11, 2018, 05:05:44 PM
Federer in some battle.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Insane Bolt on July 11, 2018, 05:10:43 PM
Quote from: ONeill on July 11, 2018, 05:05:44 PM
Federer in some battle.

Great match
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Insane Bolt on July 11, 2018, 05:29:23 PM
Some comeback
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 11, 2018, 05:53:22 PM
Some big wins for Anderson in the last year having made the US Open final too.

Really incredible from Federer to lose from being two up with match point. Anderson's serving was incredible though.

Essentially means Djokovic vs (likely) Nadal on Friday will be the final in all but name.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Insane Bolt on July 13, 2018, 08:17:41 PM
Amazing semi final....99 games in the match. Don't think Serena has played that many games to get to the final. Equal prize money is a nonsense
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Capt Pat on July 13, 2018, 08:36:29 PM
50 games in the final set of the Anderson Isner semi final before Anderson came out on top. Amazing stuff.

Nadal and Djokovic could be a long match too.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Boycey on July 13, 2018, 08:48:52 PM
A relative sprint for Isner who was also involved in this

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Longest_tennis_match_records
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 13, 2018, 10:11:46 PM
Quote from: Boycey on July 13, 2018, 08:48:52 PM
A relative sprint for Isner who was also involved in this

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Longest_tennis_match_records

And promptly lost his next match in straights if I recall correctly. Anderson will be banjaxed but so will whoever wins this one giving it'll go into tomorrow.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on July 13, 2018, 10:14:04 PM
Possibly not as banjaxed though. These two guys are relentless. They must be a nightmare to play.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on July 13, 2018, 10:19:39 PM
Serious fitness levels from top players in tennis.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 13, 2018, 10:22:14 PM
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 13, 2018, 10:14:04 PM
Possibly not as banjaxed though. These two guys are relentless. They must be a nightmare to play.

Aye but if they also go deep into a fifth that's played tomorrow. I suspect as well that it would have to be played after the women's final rather than before, so they could be playing quite late tomorrow afternoon/evening.

Then again, Anderson now has two insanely long five setters in his legs in three days.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on July 13, 2018, 10:27:17 PM
Oh didn't realise it could be played after. Might increase tiredness.

I rarely watch tennis but these two guys are phenomenal- great to watch. I think djokovic maybe will have a bit more in the end.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 13, 2018, 10:44:33 PM
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 13, 2018, 10:27:17 PM
Oh didn't realise it could be played after. Might increase tiredness.

I rarely watch tennis but these two guys are phenomenal- great to watch. I think djokovic maybe will have a bit more in the end.

I'm not sure but I'd imagine that as there's all the pomp and ceremony of a final, royal visits etc, the start time of the women's would be set in stone. Don't know if it could be moved to Court 1 either.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: macdanger2 on July 13, 2018, 10:51:25 PM
Is there any chance that these tennis players are not on PEDs?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 13, 2018, 11:06:01 PM
Quote from: macdanger2 on July 13, 2018, 10:51:25 PM
Is there any chance that these tennis players are not on PEDs?

God no. Brilliant stuff to watch though.

They've just said that they'll have the choice to play either before or after the women's.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on July 13, 2018, 11:06:59 PM
Players choice whether before or after apparently....

Interesting point on 5th set should go to tie break at 12 each in a grand slam. Makes sense.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: macdanger2 on July 13, 2018, 11:09:58 PM
Quote from: gallsman on July 13, 2018, 11:06:01 PM
Quote from: macdanger2 on July 13, 2018, 10:51:25 PM
Is there any chance that these tennis players are not on PEDs?

God no. Brilliant stuff to watch though.

They've just said that they'll have the choice to play either before or after the women's.

Ah yeah, great entertainment
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 14, 2018, 03:30:23 PM
They're still going. Brilliant stuff altogether. Maybe Anderson will end up being the least tired tomorrow.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 14, 2018, 04:21:16 PM
Hard to separate but fair fucks to both players!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: screenexile on September 09, 2018, 01:06:16 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 14, 2018, 04:21:16 PM
Hard to separate but fair f**ks to both players!

Haven't seen it properly but was Serena Williams badly done there getting docked a a game?

Her interview after was very good and her words for Osaka but it seems very harsh.

Not a good US Open for the officials!!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: JPGJOHNNYG on September 09, 2018, 05:21:51 AM
Quote from: screenexile on September 09, 2018, 01:06:16 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 14, 2018, 04:21:16 PM
Hard to separate but fair f**ks to both players!

Haven't seen it properly but was Serena Williams badly done there getting docked a a game?

Her interview after was very good and her words for Osaka but it seems very harsh.

Not a good US Open for the officials!!

Tennis needs to stamp this shit out. No matter if the official was right or wrong her reaction deserves serious punnishment but nothing will happen. Can you imagine any other sport allowing such a show - its embarrassing. Kyrgios is another one who takes the absolute piss. Need lengthy bans when they start behaving like muppets.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Over the Bar on September 09, 2018, 05:32:54 AM
Quote from: macdanger2 on July 13, 2018, 10:51:25 PM
Is there any chance that these tennis players are not on PEDs?

Like Dublin?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on September 09, 2018, 06:07:35 AM
Was she f**k badly done. Called the umpire a liar, a thief and threatened his career. Pulled the line about being a mother. Pulled the line about bring a woman. She has form for that sort of thing too.

It was, correctly, her third code violation of the evening. She was warned, then had a point deduction, then had a game docked.

The worst bit of it all was that Osaka was brilliant and we cruising to the win. Serena completely ruined it on her.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Rois on September 09, 2018, 07:07:04 AM
Quote from: gallsman on September 09, 2018, 06:07:35 AM

The worst bit of it all was that Osaka was brilliant and we cruising to the win. Serena completely ruined it on her.
I agree 100% with this, the poor girl had no clue how to react and should have been elated at her performance. Serena was a disgrace.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on September 09, 2018, 07:26:57 AM
Quote from: Rois on September 09, 2018, 07:07:04 AM
Quote from: gallsman on September 09, 2018, 06:07:35 AM

The worst bit of it all was that Osaka was brilliant and we cruising to the win. Serena completely ruined it on her.
I agree 100% with this, the poor girl had no clue how to react and should have been elated at her performance. Serena was a disgrace.

She was distraught. For a girl who had just won her first grand slam it should have been the greatest moment of her life and Serena, and consequently the crowd, took it from her.

Purely focusing on the tennis, Osaka's play this tournament had been incredible. She bossed Serena the way few been have ever been able to.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: omaghjoe on September 09, 2018, 07:44:35 AM
TBF she has had a tough time lately which she has thankfully been very public about.

She is a driven woman and her emotions just got the better of her, she was out of line but I hope people aren't too sore on her.
Unfortunate all around especially for the Osaka girl

Also the original warning that set it all off was bizarre, never ever heard of that rule.


Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on September 09, 2018, 07:51:37 AM
You don't know that you can't be coached on court during grand slams? You evidently don't watch any tennis. Moratouglou has acknowledged he was coaching her

She has been through a shit time. Trying to use it to explain or justify her behaviour is embarrassing. She undermines feminist movements by trying to claim she's being persecuted as such in this instance.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on September 09, 2018, 11:25:50 AM
Did anyone watch it on Amazon Prime (I think).

Very annoying that it was not on Sky Sports at least.

Anywhere I can watch it now?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on September 09, 2018, 11:35:34 AM
Quote from: Orior on September 09, 2018, 11:25:50 AM
Did anyone watch it on Amazon Prime (I think).

Yes
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: grounded on September 09, 2018, 11:46:55 AM
Quote from: gallsman on September 09, 2018, 06:07:35 AM
Was she f**k badly done. Called the umpire a liar, a thief and threatened his career. Pulled the line about being a mother. Pulled the line about bring a woman. She has form for that sort of thing too.

It was, correctly, her third code violation of the evening. She was warned, then had a point deduction, then had a game docked.

The worst bit of it all was that Osaka was brilliant and we cruising to the win. Serena completely ruined it on her.

Im inclined to go along with you here. She's a once in a generation player, a great champion and athlete and has been through a rough ordeal but that is no way to behave.
        As said above she essentially threatened that umpire's career(hypothetically consider if a top male tennis player said the same to a female umpire) emotional, angry, feeling hard done by is no excuse.
         Fined and fined heavily i would say would be the height of it although in most other sports a lengthy ban would follow.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: manfromdelmonte on September 09, 2018, 01:54:13 PM
American crowds are very partisan.
Delighted for the Japanese girl
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Minder on September 09, 2018, 03:22:52 PM
Williams was a disgrace and didn't even catch herself on after it, saying the umpire was "sexist" for docking her a game as he has never docked a man a game for calling him a thief !! Has any male player called him a thief before. As for all the I am fighting for equal rights for women, equal prize money would be closer to it.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on September 09, 2018, 08:06:22 PM
Quote from: Minder on September 09, 2018, 03:22:52 PM
Williams was a disgrace and didn't even catch herself on after it, saying the umpire was "sexist" for docking her a game as he has never docked a man a game for calling him a thief !! Has any male player called him a thief before. As for all the I am fighting for equal rights for women, equal prize money would be closer to it.

They would have to start playing a few more sets then.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: SHEEDY on September 09, 2018, 08:18:06 PM
thought serena was a disgrace, came across as a bully and really sore loser. surprised at a number of tennis commentators comimg out to support her. no one wants to criticise her or get on her wrong side it seems. ruined what should have been osaka's moment.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Maiden1 on September 09, 2018, 08:33:53 PM
I felt for Osaka.  Serena is her hero and she was crying her eyes out afterwards with all the booing instead of being ecstatic to win.  Serena came across as very spoiled.  The one thing Serena made a mistake with was that the umpire called a code violation against her coach not against her (she might be having words with her coach on this).  I don't think she was even looking at the coach.  Her coach was gesturing for her to move in towards the net (maybe more talking to himself than Serena) but Serena was at the far end of the court not even looking at him.  She said to the umpire she doesn't cheat but the rule is your coach can't give instructions, not whether she saw the instructions.  She then smashed her racked because she was getting wiped.  The umpire was probably being pedantic and might have liked the limelight on the third violation (he could have said you are potentially going to lose a game if you keep talking) but it doesn't set a bad precedent that if you complain excessively (potentially unnerving your opponent) you get a code violation, keep talking and the violations will keep coming.  I've done it myself in fairness playing squash, smashed a racket against the wall when getting my @ss kicked.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ONeill on September 09, 2018, 08:42:25 PM
Quote from: screenexile on September 09, 2018, 01:06:16 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 14, 2018, 04:21:16 PM
Hard to separate but fair f**ks to both players!

Haven't seen it properly but was Serena Williams badly done there getting docked a a game?

Her interview after was very good and her words for Osaka but it seems very harsh.

Not a good US Open for the officials!!

WTF
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Boycey on September 09, 2018, 09:24:13 PM
I've been reading about this all day but have only just seen it now or the best/worst bits anyway. I thought she behaved appallingly and doubled down on it by continuing it in her press conference.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on September 09, 2018, 09:26:03 PM
she has plenty of previous as well at the US open, spoilt brat who can't behave
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: RedHand88 on September 10, 2018, 12:19:04 PM
I really feel for Osaka in this instance. Had the greatest moment of her life upstaged by a petulant brat who used sexism as the reason she lost, even though it was a woman v woman match. My head hurts.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: omaghjoe on September 10, 2018, 04:28:37 PM
I dont agree with her actions or language, the demeanor of the crowd was way out of whack, I also don't agree with the whataboutery
It was awful for the Osaka girl also

but...

I was worried about her mental state after her previous implosion which she attributed to post partum depression.
You don't shake the like of that of in a few months.

The last thing she needs is vilification.
For the Serena partisans I would like to see less talk of equality and rules and more about the mental health of new mothers.... that the real issue here for me

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on September 10, 2018, 07:13:12 PM
My daughter absolutely loves Williams, never misses her play and follows everything she does, but on this occasion she's said Serena has lost the plot!

If it is related to an illness then she's best to step away from the whole thing, she's nothing to prove, outstanding athlete who has been at the top of her game for so many years, would be hard to find a player in the next few years to get to the standard she set..

Though my fav was always Stef
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mrdeeds on September 10, 2018, 07:20:48 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 10, 2018, 04:28:37 PM
I dont agree with her actions or language, the demeanor of the crowd was way out of whack, I also don't agree with the whataboutery
It was awful for the Osaka girl also

but...

I was worried about her mental state after her previous implosion which she attributed to post partum depression.
You don't shake the like of that of in a few months.

The last thing she needs is vilification.
For the Serena partisans I would like to see less talk of equality and rules and more about the mental health of new mothers.... that the real issue here for me

What about all her outbursts and disgusting things she's said to officials before pregnancy?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: From the Bunker on January 11, 2019, 11:28:48 AM
Andy Murray to call it a day after Wimbledon. Tough to have to call it quits at the age of 31.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: johnnycool on January 11, 2019, 12:07:19 PM
Quote from: From the Bunker on January 11, 2019, 11:28:48 AM
Andy Murray to call it a day after Wimbledon. Tough to have to call it quits at the age of 31.

Hip problems it seems.

Good player but didn't seem to fit the British Wimbledon winner persona that the LTA craved and that's a positive in my opinion.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on January 11, 2019, 12:11:53 PM
I liked him. Pity to see this. Must be difficult at that age to admit you won't see your best ever again and mightn't do what you love pain free.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mouview on January 14, 2019, 12:18:02 PM
Well, he's out of Aussie now anyway, though typically not without a fight. Beaten by the Spaniard Bustin A Gut.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: TabClear on January 14, 2019, 12:22:57 PM
Quote from: johnnycool on January 11, 2019, 12:07:19 PM
Quote from: From the Bunker on January 11, 2019, 11:28:48 AM
Andy Murray to call it a day after Wimbledon. Tough to have to call it quits at the age of 31.

Hip problems it seems.

Good player but didn't seem to fit the British Wimbledon winner persona that the LTA craved and that's a positive in my opinion.

I would argue great player. 11 (I think) Grand Slam finals in probably the golden era of men's tennis is a great record. Hugely unlucky to be fighting it out against three of the best ever at their peak otherwise he would have likely had a few more slam titles.

I always liked him although he got a hard time in the media at times.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: JPGJOHNNYG on May 17, 2019, 10:55:22 AM
What does this idiot need to do to get a ban.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/tennis/48300357

More and more tennis players think this behaviour is fine and more worryingly more and more peers, fans and journalists happy to make excuses for it.
The guy should be thrown out of the sport
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on May 17, 2019, 12:43:01 PM
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on May 17, 2019, 10:55:22 AM
What does this idiot need to do to get a ban.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/tennis/48300357

More and more tennis players think this behaviour is fine and more worryingly more and more peers, fans and journalists happy to make excuses for it.
The guy should be thrown out of the sport

I saw an article on hiom the other day where the whole focus was on him slabbering about Djokovic and how he cringey he is as he tries too hard to be liked etc.  He let rip on a few other players too.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on May 17, 2019, 03:25:54 PM
Kyrgios is a twat. Always has been and always will be. Fancies himself as a bit of a bad boy of the sport and has taken a few big scalps in his time but he's a dime store McEnroe.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: JPGJOHNNYG on May 17, 2019, 03:26:48 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on May 17, 2019, 12:43:01 PM
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on May 17, 2019, 10:55:22 AM
What does this idiot need to do to get a ban.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/tennis/48300357

More and more tennis players think this behaviour is fine and more worryingly more and more peers, fans and journalists happy to make excuses for it.
The guy should be thrown out of the sport

I saw an article on hiom the other day where the whole focus was on him slabbering about Djokovic and how he cringey he is as he tries too hard to be liked etc.  He let rip on a few other players too.

He is a nasty piece of work but instead of being dealt with the authorities bend over backwards for him only for him to embarrass them all again a few weeks later. You can understand why Serena with all her titles sometimes seems untouchable but some also ran in the top 50 really wouldnt be missed
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 09, 2019, 08:31:15 PM
The GOAT picked up his 12th RG today.

A remarkable achievement
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 26, 2019, 07:17:19 PM
I see Wimbledon have shafted Rafa with the seedings. I don't know how they get away with their sordid little seedings system when all the other slams go with the rankings. It really cheapens the event as a whole.

I wonder which giraffe will make a break for it this year.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Hound on June 26, 2019, 10:09:00 PM
Quote from: Angelo on June 26, 2019, 07:17:19 PM
I see Wimbledon have shafted Rafa with the seedings. I don't know how they get away with their sordid little seedings system when all the other slams go with the rankings. It really cheapens the event as a whole.

I wonder which giraffe will make a break for it this year.
They're hardly picking on Rafa. All players who's performance on grass is worse than other surfaces get demoted and vice versa. 9 years since Nadal won it. Federer won it the year before last.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on June 26, 2019, 10:19:32 PM
Quote from: Hound on June 26, 2019, 10:09:00 PM
Quote from: Angelo on June 26, 2019, 07:17:19 PM
I see Wimbledon have shafted Rafa with the seedings. I don't know how they get away with their sordid little seedings system when all the other slams go with the rankings. It really cheapens the event as a whole.

I wonder which giraffe will make a break for it this year.
They're hardly picking on Rafa. All players who's performance on grass is worse than other surfaces get demoted and vice versa. 9 years since Nadal won it. Federer won it the year before last.

Don't see the issue myself. I would seed Federer ahead of Nadal for Wimbledon based on their records there. Djokovic will take care of Nadal in the semi finals, but Nadal probably won't make it that far going by his track record.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on June 26, 2019, 11:22:32 PM
Nadal made the semifinal last year, losing 9-7 to Djokovic...
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Maiden1 on June 27, 2019, 08:53:07 AM
Not sure it makes much difference if 2nd play 3rd in the semi final anyhow.  4th seed vs 3rd maybe would make a difference depending on whether he wants to play Djokovic or Federer in semi.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on June 27, 2019, 09:12:22 AM
Quote from: gallsman on June 26, 2019, 11:22:32 PM
Nadal made the semifinal last year, losing 9-7 to Djokovic...

Usually out long before that stage though.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: TabClear on June 27, 2019, 11:06:10 AM
Quote from: nrico2006 on June 27, 2019, 09:12:22 AM
Quote from: gallsman on June 26, 2019, 11:22:32 PM
Nadal made the semifinal last year, losing 9-7 to Djokovic...

Usually out long before that stage though.

6 SF out of 13 appearances. Not bad, comparable with all his US/Australian records.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mouview on June 27, 2019, 01:43:52 PM
Where do people rate these in the pantheon?

Federer has most Slams with 20, just one French but evenly divided between the other 3.
Nadal has 18, has won them all but his haul is dominated by French opens with 12; he's won Australia only once.
Djokovic has 15, again one French, and fairly well divided between the rest.

I would rate Federer the best, because he's won the most, even late in his career, and has always been a supremely stylish player. However, when all three would play their best, I think the others would both beat him, e.g. Wimbledon 2008 final, a memorable US semi v Djokovic, when he failed to convert 2 match points.
For me Djoko second, not as skillful as Fed. but very hard working almost complete all-rounder and extremely difficult to beat. I think his head-to-head v. the other 2 in Slams is positive?
I'd have Nadal third because his clay-court dominance doesn't greatly extend to other surfaces and because I've always felt that his game was more purely power-based, with less of a skill element than the other two. I'm sure more knowledgeable observers would disagree however. Thoughts?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 27, 2019, 07:02:05 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on June 26, 2019, 10:19:32 PM
Quote from: Hound on June 26, 2019, 10:09:00 PM
Quote from: Angelo on June 26, 2019, 07:17:19 PM
I see Wimbledon have shafted Rafa with the seedings. I don't know how they get away with their sordid little seedings system when all the other slams go with the rankings. It really cheapens the event as a whole.

I wonder which giraffe will make a break for it this year.
They're hardly picking on Rafa. All players who's performance on grass is worse than other surfaces get demoted and vice versa. 9 years since Nadal won it. Federer won it the year before last.



Don't see the issue myself. I would seed Federer ahead of Nadal for Wimbledon based on their records there. Djokovic will take care of Nadal in the semi finals, but Nadal probably won't make it that far going by his track record.

It's the only slam that deviates from the rankings, an insidious old boys club. So what if Federer won it the year before? He got knocked out a round earlier than Nadal last time round. On the women's side they go with the rankings, it's a very unfair way of doing things.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 27, 2019, 07:24:04 PM
Quote from: mouview on June 27, 2019, 01:43:52 PM
Where do people rate these in the pantheon?

Federer has most Slams with 20, just one French but evenly divided between the other 3.
Nadal has 18, has won them all but his haul is dominated by French opens with 12; he's won Australia only once.
Djokovic has 15, again one French, and fairly well divided between the rest.

I would rate Federer the best, because he's won the most, even late in his career, and has always been a supremely stylish player. However, when all three would play their best, I think the others would both beat him, e.g. Wimbledon 2008 final, a memorable US semi v Djokovic, when he failed to convert 2 match points.
For me Djoko second, not as skillful as Fed. but very hard working almost complete all-rounder and extremely difficult to beat. I think his head-to-head v. the other 2 in Slams is positive?
I'd have Nadal third because his clay-court dominance doesn't greatly extend to other surfaces and because I've always felt that his game was more purely power-based, with less of a skill element than the other two. I'm sure more knowledgeable observers would disagree however. Thoughts?

Nadal and Djokovic are miles ahead of Federer.

Federer was lucky that he happens to be 5/6 years older than them or he'd probably not have clocked 10 slams on the board.

Look at the slams Federer won, 12 of them were 2007 or before, at this point Nadal was 21 and Djokovic 20 - not even near their prime years. For Federer's first 12 slams the competition was basically past it Agassi and Sampras and guys of Federer's vintage who couldn't hack the Nadal/Djokovic/Murray era like Roddick, Hewitt, Nalbandian, Safin etc. Djokovic and Nadal have always had each other as company and Federer and Murray and other guys like Wawrinka and Del Potro.

Nadal and Djokovic both enjoy superior head to head records with Federer.

Nadal for me is unquestionably the greatest of all time. His dominance on clay will never ever be repeated in the sport and the calendar of the tennis season discriminates against clay courters. Clay court plays completely different to grass and hard courts which are very similar, there is only 1 clay court slam and 3 between grass and hard courts.

This clay court power myth seems to be perpetuated in anglocentric countries. Clay court is the one surface that commands a fantastic all round game, it's not just made for one dimensional giraffes to serve ace after ace, the type that you will see dominate the grass and hard court season.

- Marin Cilic is a US Open champion, an Australian Open finalist and Wimbledon finalist. He has never made it past the QF stage at RG.
- Kevin Anderson is a Wimbledon and US Open finalist. He has never made it past R4 of Wimbledon.
- Milos Raonic is a Wimbledon finalist, never past R4 of RG.

There is a high correlation between a one dimensional big server and doing very well at Wimbledon, it's all about bludgeoning the ball past the opponent. On clay it is about strategy, shot selection and variety. The most difficult shot to execute on tennis is the drop shot and you'd don't see it anywhere to great effect as you at Roland Garros.

The cardigan wearing, strawberry and cream brigade don't like having the one dimensional aspect of grass court tennis and the acefests it serves up (no pun intended) pointed out.

Could you imagine an Isner-Anderson semi final with over 100 aces being served up on clay? No, neither could I.





Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 27, 2019, 07:57:39 PM
They are currently ahead of Federer? As it is, Federer has amassed more grand slams that the other two, regardless of when he won them. Saying winning one grand slam is easier than winning another is silly, and I can't remember a commentator ever saying that either. It may be harder for certain players to win on clay, and that's possibly based on what suits their style or how they started out in tennis.

Going out on a limb here but I think they all want to win Wimbledon
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 27, 2019, 08:29:19 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 27, 2019, 07:57:39 PM
They are currently ahead of Federer? As it is, Federer has amassed more grand slams that the other two, regardless of when he won them. Saying winning one grand slam is easier than winning another is silly, and I can't remember a commentator ever saying that either. It may be harder for certain players to win on clay, and that's possibly based on what suits their style or how they started out in tennis.

Going out on a limb here but I think they all want to win Wimbledon

Djokovic and Nadal are the no 1 and 2 in the world, every other slam goes with the rankings as should Wimbledon. Federer has won 2 more slams than Nadal, 5 more than Djokovic, he is 5 years older than Nadal, 6 than Djokovic, he won 12 of those 20 slams before Nadal  and Djokovic had reached the same age that Federer had captured his first slam at.

Federer has played a distant third over the past decade.
Winning on clay requires a far greater all round game, look at someone like Thiem in comparision to Kevin Anderson. Thiem is a superb all round player, Anderson is a big serving giraffe.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 27, 2019, 09:33:24 PM
Quote from: Angelo on June 27, 2019, 08:29:19 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 27, 2019, 07:57:39 PM
They are currently ahead of Federer? As it is, Federer has amassed more grand slams that the other two, regardless of when he won them. Saying winning one grand slam is easier than winning another is silly, and I can't remember a commentator ever saying that either. It may be harder for certain players to win on clay, and that's possibly based on what suits their style or how they started out in tennis.

Going out on a limb here but I think they all want to win Wimbledon

Djokovic and Nadal are the no 1 and 2 in the world, every other slam goes with the rankings as should Wimbledon. Federer has won 2 more slams than Nadal, 5 more than Djokovic, he is 5 years older than Nadal, 6 than Djokovic, he won 12 of those 20 slams before Nadal  and Djokovic had reached the same age that Federer had captured his first slam at.

Federer has played a distant third over the past decade.
Winning on clay requires a far greater all round game, look at someone like Thiem in comparision to Kevin Anderson. Thiem is a superb all round player, Anderson is a big serving giraffe.

But until Nadal wins 2 more to equal and a third to surpass him (should he not win any more) I'll say (personal choice) that Federer is bigger player. Forget about Anderson let's stick with the 3
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Boycey on June 27, 2019, 09:39:34 PM
Will we ignore the elephant in the room?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 27, 2019, 09:41:46 PM
Quote from: Boycey on June 27, 2019, 09:39:34 PM
Will we ignore the elephant in the room?

Until it's exactly confirmed I'll say nowt
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 27, 2019, 09:58:14 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 27, 2019, 09:33:24 PM
Quote from: Angelo on June 27, 2019, 08:29:19 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 27, 2019, 07:57:39 PM
They are currently ahead of Federer? As it is, Federer has amassed more grand slams that the other two, regardless of when he won them. Saying winning one grand slam is easier than winning another is silly, and I can't remember a commentator ever saying that either. It may be harder for certain players to win on clay, and that's possibly based on what suits their style or how they started out in tennis.

Going out on a limb here but I think they all want to win Wimbledon

Djokovic and Nadal are the no 1 and 2 in the world, every other slam goes with the rankings as should Wimbledon. Federer has won 2 more slams than Nadal, 5 more than Djokovic, he is 5 years older than Nadal, 6 than Djokovic, he won 12 of those 20 slams before Nadal  and Djokovic had reached the same age that Federer had captured his first slam at.

Federer has played a distant third over the past decade.
Winning on clay requires a far greater all round game, look at someone like Thiem in comparision to Kevin Anderson. Thiem is a superb all round player, Anderson is a big serving giraffe.

But until Nadal wins 2 more to equal and a third to surpass him (should he not win any more) I'll say (personal choice) that Federer is bigger player. Forget about Anderson let's stick with the 3

That doesn't really give a fair reflection though. Both Djokovic and Nadal have dominated Federer, Federer had the break of making hay before they came around hasn't had much of a sniff since they did come into their own.

Federer's first 7 Grand Slam finals were against:

Phillopoussis
Safin
Roddick
Hewitt
Roddick
A 35 year old Agassi
Baghdatis

That was the extent of his competition at the time. Roddick and Hewitt are around the same age as Federer, Roddick a year younger and Hewitt the same age. Roddick was a slam champion at 21, Hewitt at 20. These guys were complete non runners when Nadal, Djokovic, Murray broke on the scene yet they were Federer's main competition for his early years. Even the players outside the top 4 in the Nadal, Djokovic, Murray generation were far better players than Hewitt and Roddick. Guys like Wawrinka, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Ferrer had a far bigger impression on slams than Hewitt and Roddick in the subsequent years.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on June 28, 2019, 01:12:42 PM
During the French Open I had look at their respective records, and scribbled a few things down just to compare the Big 3.*
Federer had won 5 Slams in 2 years, reached 10 in 4yrs, then 15 in 6yrs and finally 20 in 15yrs.
Nadal had won 5 Slams in 4 years, reached 10 in 7yrs, then 15 in 13yrs and finally 18 in 14yrs.
Djokovic had won 5 Slams in 5 years, reaching 10 in 8yrs, then 11 in years.

Also had a look at the Grand Slam champions since Federers first - Wimbledon 2003. Since then the 3 lads have amassed 53 (inc Federers first) title.  Other winners since then include:
(Only won one)
Andy Roddick - US Open
Gaston Gaudio- French
Marat Safin - Aus
JM Del Potro - US
Marin Cilic - US

The only players to win multiple titles since Wimbledon 2003 are Wawrinka with 3 titles (Aus, French, US) and Murray with 3 titles (2 Wimbledon, 1 US)

Had a look then at the previous 17years (not sure why I landed on 17years)
Multiple grand slam winners include:
Becker (5) Lendl (5) Edberg (5) Wilander (3) Sampras (14) Courier (4) Brugera (2) Kuerten (3) Kafelnikov (2) Agassi (8) Hewitt (2) Rafter (2)

Single Grand slam winners
Cash, Chang, Gomez, Stich, Muster, Krajicek, Korda, Moya, Johannssen, Costa, Ferrero, Ivanisevic.

Certainly seemed more open in terms of winners, with some of those names only good for answers on Pointless.

There endeth my scribbles.
*Might not be 100% accurate - difficulty reading my own hand writing  ???

As for comparing who gets to the Grand Slam finals, it could be  pointed out that:

Wawrinka has won the French open, but has yet to make it past Wimbledon QF's
Thiem has made the last two French open final, but has yet to make it past Wimbledon R4
Ferrer another French Open finalist, didn't get past Wimbledon QF
Soderling, twice a French Open finalist, didn't get past Wimbledon QF
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on June 28, 2019, 02:30:57 PM
Not that it makes a huge difference but Satin also won the 2000 US Open, absolutely demolishing Sampras, so he is also a multiple champion albeit with one of them before Federer started his collection.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Boycey on June 28, 2019, 02:48:42 PM
We are going to ignore it then...
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 28, 2019, 05:40:57 PM
Quote from: Estimator on June 28, 2019, 01:12:42 PM


Wawrinka has won the French open, but has yet to make it past Wimbledon QF's
Thiem has made the last two French open final, but has yet to make it past Wimbledon R4
Ferrer another French Open finalist, didn't get past Wimbledon QF
Soderling, twice a French Open finalist, didn't get past Wimbledon QF

Look at the prototype of player they are though. They are not just one dimensional  6ft5 servers, they are complete all rounders.  The last slam Soderling took part in was 8 years ago. He was effectively retired at 26 due to medical issues and injuries.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 28, 2019, 05:53:06 PM
Quote from: Estimator on June 28, 2019, 01:12:42 PM
During the French Open I had look at their respective records, and scribbled a few things down just to compare the Big 3.*
Federer had won 5 Slams in 2 years, reached 10 in 4yrs, then 15 in 6yrs and finally 20 in 15yrs.
Nadal had won 5 Slams in 4 years, reached 10 in 7yrs, then 15 in 13yrs and finally 18 in 14yrs.
Djokovic had won 5 Slams in 5 years, reaching 10 in 8yrs, then 11 in years.


That bit charts how easy it was for Federer when the competition was Hewitt, Roddick, Safin and Agassi and Sampras were all old men.

When Djokovic and Nadal emerged, Federer was pushed a distant third and remained firmly in their shadows. Djokovic captured his first Australian Open aged 20 in 2008, Nadal captured his first non-clay slam in 2008 also having just turned 22 a few days beforehand.

From then on Djokovic and Nadal have won 14 slams each, Federer has won 8. Both Djokovic and Nadal have a superior head to head record against Federer at slams. Djokovic and Nadal have both won slams where they have had to face both Federer and each other enroute. Federer hasn't. Nadal has beaten Federer on all surfaces at slams, so has Djokovic. Nadal has beaten Djokovic on all surfaces in slams, and Djokovic has done the same to Nadal. Federer has never beaten Nadal at RG.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 28, 2019, 06:05:07 PM
We get it, Nadal is best on clay. Ask any player, they'll want to win Wimbledon. It's the big slam
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 28, 2019, 06:35:41 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 28, 2019, 06:05:07 PM
We get it, Nadal is best on clay. Ask any player, they'll want to win Wimbledon. It's the big slam

We get it, you are seduced by the cardigan doffing and strawberries and cream. It's the freakshows and ton plus aces that you admire in tennis.

Enjoy the giraffe fest over the next fortnight, the real tennis was last month, this is novelty safari tennis.

The facts simply don't lie.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 28, 2019, 10:50:58 PM
Quote from: Angelo on June 28, 2019, 06:35:41 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 28, 2019, 06:05:07 PM
We get it, Nadal is best on clay. Ask any player, they'll want to win Wimbledon. It's the big slam

We get it, you are seduced by the cardigan doffing and strawberries and cream. It's the freakshows and ton plus aces that you admire in tennis.

Enjoy the giraffe fest over the next fortnight, the real tennis was last month, this is novelty safari tennis.

The facts simply don't lie.

Nadal's words, not mine


"I love everything about it,'' Nadal said. "The grass gives something special to the tournament. When you walk around it's different to other places. My goal was always to play well here on grass. I did that in 2006, playing in the final for the first time. That was a big surprise for me. To do it another time the next year made me think: 'I can really play well here.' When I won in 2008, it was one of the most emotional moments of my career, if not the most emotional.

"For me it was a dream to win here – more than a dream. Spanish players in the past saw Wimbledon as something that was impossible to win, a different sport. But I always had my dream of doing well on this surface. I love it. I loved this place – just being here and seeing everything – from the first time I came here to play juniors.''
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 29, 2019, 01:19:57 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 28, 2019, 10:50:58 PM
Quote from: Angelo on June 28, 2019, 06:35:41 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 28, 2019, 06:05:07 PM
We get it, Nadal is best on clay. Ask any player, they'll want to win Wimbledon. It's the big slam

We get it, you are seduced by the cardigan doffing and strawberries and cream. It's the freakshows and ton plus aces that you admire in tennis.

Enjoy the giraffe fest over the next fortnight, the real tennis was last month, this is novelty safari tennis.

The facts simply don't lie.

Nadal's words, not mine


"I love everything about it,'' Nadal said. "The grass gives something special to the tournament. When you walk around it's different to other places. My goal was always to play well here on grass. I did that in 2006, playing in the final for the first time. That was a big surprise for me. To do it another time the next year made me think: 'I can really play well here.' When I won in 2008, it was one of the most emotional moments of my career, if not the most emotional.

"For me it was a dream to win here – more than a dream. Spanish players in the past saw Wimbledon as something that was impossible to win, a different sport. But I always had my dream of doing well on this surface. I love it. I loved this place – just being here and seeing everything – from the first time I came here to play juniors.''

And?

A player talks up a tournament in the buildup to it? He doesn't compare it to any other tournament or say it's the best.

When it comes down to it, a booming serve alone will bring you a long, long way on grass court tennis. On clay? Well, if you can serve good, that is fine, but what else have you behind that? There's a reason why guys like Anderson (6ft8), Isner (6ft10), Opelka (7ft), Raonic (6ft5), Kyrgios (6ft4) and Berdych (6ft5) all sat out RG to be ready for Wimbledon - their game revolves around their serve. It's set play tennis, it's like a guy on a GAA team who is solely there for frees. Clay court tennis demands for you to be able to work points when your serve doesn't win them automatically. Grass court is just set play tennis, bludgeon shots for easy points.

Wimbledon has always had this unfounded sense of superiority, it's classic Anglo culture, the cardigans, the all white wear, the gentelmens championship.......... grass court tennis is a far more one dimensional and less skillful version of tennis than clay but it has an unfounded prestige in the anglo world and they are very protective about it.

Saying grass court tennis is better clay is like saying rugby union is better than association football. It's like saying Gary Cahill is better than Roberto Baggio.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 29, 2019, 08:16:22 AM
How many of those guys have actually won Wimbledon?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 29, 2019, 08:41:06 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 29, 2019, 08:16:22 AM
How many of those guys have actually won Wimbledon?

What does that matter?

The same guys have dominated all surfaces over the past decade. Only the US Open has thrown up winners outside of Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, Murray and Wawrinka where Del Potro and Cilic captured one. Apart from that the only guys who have won the French since 05 have been Nadal, Federer, Wawrinka and Djokovic. The only guys that have won Wimbledon since 2003 have been Federer, Nadal, Djokovic and Murray. The only guys who have won Australia since 2006 have been Federer, Djokovic, Nadal and Wawrinka.

What you will see is that the guys who go well on hard courts nearly always go well on grass. Wawrinka is really the only notable exception there in that he has two hard court slams at the US and Australian but never made it past the QF at Wimbledon. Clay is the surface that plays different, it's not a case of bludgeoning the ball past, it requires strategy, intuition, improvisation and craft to win those points. On grass court, you're just looking at bludgeoning the ball as hard as you can because when it hits that ground it just skids away, particularly in the first week before the court firms up - this is why big servers will always go far in Wimbledon but not on clay.

I think one of the hard court slams should certainly be switching to clay again. The US Open used be clay for a few years in the 70s and it would be a welcome return to have it back. If you look at the rankings now, the top 20/30 players are dominated by big gangly lads who are 6ft5 plus and don't really have that much of a game behind their serve and that is because the hard/grass court calendar predicates this.

The prototype of player that goes well at Wimbledon is very obvious, he's usually a big guy which goes hand in hand with having a monster serve. You'll see it all in the next fortnight where we have big one dimensional servers populating the last 16 and one of them will probably make a dash to the final.

I wouldn't be surprised to see Raonic or Cilic in another Wimbledon final this year.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 29, 2019, 12:47:35 PM
So the best players technically, fitter and tactically win the big tournaments. Which has been Federer (the most) followed by the other two. Your point is Nadal is best on clay, one surface and crap on the other two surfaces (in comparison to Fed and Novak)

If you have a preference for clay court players then fine, It's not as prestigious and wanted as Wimbledon, forget about the stuffiness and whatever annoys you.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on June 29, 2019, 05:06:48 PM
Nadal has dominated on one surface. Take that away and his slams total at the other 3 is nothing special. There is a stronger argument for Djokovic as the best ever than there is for Nadal. Hewitt was brilliant for a few years and essentially prototyped Nadals style of plabut his body simply couldn't hack that style of play which has also happened with Nadal, but not to the same extent.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on June 29, 2019, 11:01:16 PM
Nadal has won 6 grand slams outside Roland Garros. 6.

"Nothing special" he says, clearly not having a f**king clue.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 29, 2019, 11:12:02 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on June 29, 2019, 05:06:48 PM
Nadal has dominated on one surface. Take that away and his slams total at the other 3 is nothing special. There is a stronger argument for Djokovic as the best ever than there is for Nadal. Hewitt was brilliant for a few years and essentially prototyped Nadals style of plabut his body simply couldn't hack that style of play which has also happened with Nadal, but not to the same extent.

Hewitt was "brilliant" when the opposition was shit, he was effectively a busted flush at 25 when Djokovic, Nadal, Murray et all entered the fray. This was the era where Federer was stockpiling his slams up on.

There are two hard slams a year and one grass slam a year. Both courts play similar, they favour monster servers and not those with a complete game. I'm glad you agree that the tennis season discriminates against complete players with an all round game and vastly favours the big serving machines. Imagine if 75% of the tennis season was tilted toward Nadal's favourite surface? Take away Djokovic's 10 hard slams and his record is nothing special, take away Federer's 11 hard slams and his record is nothing special.

Nadal has played his entire career with brittle knees, he's still going, still winning slams, the injuries have ensured he's left a few behind as well. Nadal is the only player in the modern era (along with Wilander) with multiple slams on every surface, surely that makes his record more special than anyone else?

The debate of the greatest is between Djokovic and Nadal. Federer couldn't live with them when they came along.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 29, 2019, 11:20:56 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 29, 2019, 12:47:35 PM
So the best players technically, fitter and tactically win the big tournaments. Which has been Federer (the most) followed by the other two. Your point is Nadal is best on clay, one surface and crap on the other two surfaces (in comparison to Fed and Novak)

If you have a preference for clay court players then fine, It's not as prestigious and wanted as Wimbledon, forget about the stuffiness and whatever annoys you.

My point is distinctly that clay court requires the most rounded game, the most ability and strategy to win a point. It's not just putting in monster first serves. Nadal being the greatest clay court ever goes without saying, imagine if the tennis season was titled in his favour and it made up 75% of the season?

You may have an affection for cardigans and strawberries and cream but that's an anglocentric viewpoint, it doesn't necessarily extend to people outside of anglocentric countries. If you watch tennis of both surfaces, you will see grass and hard court tennis are all based on the founding block of monster serving, clay court is about creating the chance to win points.

Federer is 5 years older than Nadal, 6 than Djokovic. He was lucky enough that he picked up 12 slams in a time where the main competition were the likes of Hewitt and Roddick who had completely fallen off the radar in their mid 20s when a golden generation emerged on the scene.


Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mrdeeds on June 30, 2019, 12:03:04 AM
Has Nadal not won the most ATP titles ever and f all of them have been on clay. He's won all four slams. People are arseholes.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 30, 2019, 12:10:46 AM
Quote from: mrdeeds on June 30, 2019, 12:03:04 AM
Has Nadal not won the most ATP titles ever and f all of them have been on clay. He's won all four slams. People are arseholes.

Nadal has 34 Master 1000s, Djokovic 33, Federer 28.

He's also won 4 Davis Cups and along with Agassi is the only player to ever complete the Olympic slam.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 12:39:35 AM
Quote from: mrdeeds on June 30, 2019, 12:03:04 AM
Has Nadal not won the most ATP titles ever and f all of them have been on clay. He's won all four slams. People are arseholes.

ATP titles now? Ffs lads we are talking about the main titles, Federer at the minute is the best player currently due to winning the most Slams. When Nadal gets past his count he'll be unquestionably the best. When that happens he'll be viewed (if the rumours go away that is) he's the best tennis player to grace the courts (clay courts). But being a one trick slam/surface winner won't mean he's the best.

For me and it's all personal choice I think Novak is the best
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mrdeeds on June 30, 2019, 12:41:44 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 12:39:35 AM
Quote from: mrdeeds on June 30, 2019, 12:03:04 AM
Has Nadal not won the most ATP titles ever and f all of them have been on clay. He's won all four slams. People are arseholes.

ATP titles now? Ffs lads we are talking about the main titles, Federer at the minute is the best player currently due to winning the most Slams. When Nadal gets past his count he'll be unquestionably the best. When that happens he'll be viewed (if the rumours go away that is) he's the best tennis player to grace the courts (clay courts). But being a one trick slam/surface winner won't mean he's the best.

For me and it's all personal choice I think Novak is the best

But Nadal has the 2nd most slams. Like F me. You're dismissing that. People are arseholes. And as for rumours we could say same about Federer and Novak.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 30, 2019, 12:48:36 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 12:39:35 AM
Quote from: mrdeeds on June 30, 2019, 12:03:04 AM
Has Nadal not won the most ATP titles ever and f all of them have been on clay. He's won all four slams. People are arseholes.

ATP titles now? Ffs lads we are talking about the main titles, Federer at the minute is the best player currently due to winning the most Slams. When Nadal gets past his count he'll be unquestionably the best. When that happens he'll be viewed (if the rumours go away that is) he's the best tennis player to grace the courts (clay courts). But being a one trick slam/surface winner won't mean he's the best.

For me and it's all personal choice I think Novak is the best

So you're judging it on a quantitative basis rather than a qualitative one? The facts say that Federer won 12 slams when guys like Hewitt, Roddick and Safin were the main competition.

What rumours? The ramblings of rattled Fedheads on the internet?

One trick slam/surface winner? Nadal is the only one currently active that has won multiple slams on ALL surfaces. It's the most bizarre of accusations you can throw at him.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 01:16:17 AM
He's won one Australian open. Fed has won one French, they are multiple winners of the rest, Nadal has won 12 french titles on clay, his inability to win on other surfaces is noted, as is Feds problems on clay, though credit to the amount of finals he's played there.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on June 30, 2019, 08:11:00 AM
Fed does not have a "noted problem" on clay. Nor does Djokovic for that matter. They're both French Open and multiple Masters Series winners in clay. It's simply that Nadal is the best player on it in history by a country mile.

Nadal has won 6 slams away from RG. Six slams is all time great, hall of fame territory ffs.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 30, 2019, 08:46:35 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 01:16:17 AM
He's won one Australian open. Fed has won one French, they are multiple winners of the rest, Nadal has won 12 french titles on clay, his inability to win on other surfaces is noted, as is Feds problems on clay, though credit to the amount of finals he's played there.

Nadal has 4 hard court slams.

Federer's slams dried up significantly since Nadal and Djokovic came on the scene.

Credit to the amount of finals he's played on clay? He's played 6 finals at RG, Nadal has played 5 at Wimbledon, 5 at Australia, 4 in the US.

You keep ignoring the facts that the majority of the body of work that Federer amassed was prior to Nadal and Djokovic's emergence.

Federer did 5 in a row at both Wimbledon and the US Open, he hasn't won the US Open since 2008, he's won 3 of the last 11 Wimbledon titles. And the reason for the colossal fall off has been Nadal and Djokovic, in their peaks Federer had no answer. He has an inferior head to head record at slam events against both of these players.

As well as ignoring the fact that Federer won the vast majority of his slams in a very weak era (see Hewitt, Roddick, Safin etc being the pick of the rest), you also ignore that 75% of the tennis slams are grass/hard courts, they play very similar - it's all based behind a big serve. This is really where Nadal falls down on grass courts and hard courts. He doesn't have the monster serve that will buy you free points on grass.

Despite the fact that clay only makes up 25% of the tennis slams, Nadal is getting very close to equaling the all time record for slams. That's just amazing.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 10:38:12 AM
Quote from: gallsman on June 30, 2019, 08:11:00 AM
Fed does not have a "noted problem" on clay. Nor does Djokovic for that matter. They're both French Open and multiple Masters Series winners in clay. It's simply that Nadal is the best player on it in history by a country mile.

Nadal has won 6 slams away from RG. Six slams is all time great, hall of fame territory ffs.

I'm not knocking him, I love his grit and determination and never give up attitude when he plays. All I'm saying is he's a clay court specialist. I don't think Federer or Novak are any less a tennis player cause of the majority of their slams have been on hard and grass courts, whereas Angelo believes RG is the be and end all of tennis!

His inability to win more on the other surfaces has nothing to do with people who are 6 foot 5! He's no midget himself, possibly the same size as Fed and Novak and they have no problems. As for beating supposed weaker players, that's just rubbish! You beat who's putt in front of you, none of them are easy.

While Fed has 20 he'll be recognised as being better all round. Having a favourite player is fine to, mine is Novak, I think he's better than the other two
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on June 30, 2019, 11:21:08 AM
The point is he doesn't have an inability to win on other surfaces ffs! He has won 6 grand slams off the clay!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 11:32:56 AM
Quote from: gallsman on June 30, 2019, 11:21:08 AM
The point is he doesn't have an inability to win on other surfaces ffs! He has won 6 grand slams off the clay!

Look, keep your knickers on. The point was that someone thinks he's the best player, I pointed out he's not,  as he hasn't the most titles, then the point on clay making you a better player, as it's a more difficult surface to win on for the big servers, so if he's a better player (technically) he should have won more than his current 6 slams away from clay. I'm not knocking him, in fact I prefer him over Fed. It's just simple maths though, 20 beats 18.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Boycey on June 30, 2019, 12:01:19 PM
Not sure why MR2 is getting the abuse? he's not the agressor who's failing to take on board anything other than his own opinion.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 30, 2019, 03:45:18 PM
Quote from: Boycey on June 30, 2019, 12:01:19 PM
Not sure why MR2 is getting the abuse? he's not the agressor who's failing to take on board anything other than his own opinion.

He's arguing against facts and logic.

There's no aggressor here, just facts and logic.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 03:50:47 PM
Quote from: Angelo on June 30, 2019, 03:45:18 PM
Quote from: Boycey on June 30, 2019, 12:01:19 PM
Not sure why MR2 is getting the abuse? he's not the agressor who's failing to take on board anything other than his own opinion.

He's arguing against facts and logic.

There's no aggressor here, just facts and logic.

Facts are simple... 20 for Fed 18 for Nadal
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 30, 2019, 03:51:31 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 10:38:12 AM
Quote from: gallsman on June 30, 2019, 08:11:00 AM
Fed does not have a "noted problem" on clay. Nor does Djokovic for that matter. They're both French Open and multiple Masters Series winners in clay. It's simply that Nadal is the best player on it in history by a country mile.

Nadal has won 6 slams away from RG. Six slams is all time great, hall of fame territory ffs.

I'm not knocking him, I love his grit and determination and never give up attitude when he plays. All I'm saying is he's a clay court specialist. I don't think Federer or Novak are any less a tennis player cause of the majority of their slams have been on hard and grass courts, whereas Angelo believes RG is the be and end all of tennis!

His inability to win more on the other surfaces has nothing to do with people who are 6 foot 5! He's no midget himself, possibly the same size as Fed and Novak and they have no problems. As for beating supposed weaker players, that's just rubbish! You beat who's putt in front of you, none of them are easy.

While Fed has 20 he'll be recognised as being better all round. Having a favourite player is fine to, mine is Novak, I think he's better than the other two

Sampras was no giant either but he was a monster server, probably the best server the game has seen, Federer is also one of the greatest servers the game has seen. The giraffes who excel on grass are monster servers, a monster serve alone will bring you a long, long way on grass. You call Nadal a clay court specialist, is Djokovic a hard court specialist? Is Federer a grass court specialist? Both grass and hard courts play similar so the only thing relevant that you seem to be saying is that the tennis calendar discriminates against those who excel on clay court.

There are blinding contradictions in the points you make.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 30, 2019, 03:53:32 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 03:50:47 PM
Quote from: Angelo on June 30, 2019, 03:45:18 PM
Quote from: Boycey on June 30, 2019, 12:01:19 PM
Not sure why MR2 is getting the abuse? he's not the agressor who's failing to take on board anything other than his own opinion.

He's arguing against facts and logic.

There's no aggressor here, just facts and logic.

Facts are simple... 20 for Fed 18 for Nadal

12 of those in era of Hewitt, Roddick, Safin, past it Sampras and Agassi and teenage Nadal and Djokovic.

It's like saying Anthony Joshua was a better heavyweight than Ali.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Boycey on June 30, 2019, 03:54:23 PM
What facts and logic? No facts will ever define the greatest, that's subjective..

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 04:21:23 PM
Quote from: Angelo on June 30, 2019, 03:51:31 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 10:38:12 AM
Quote from: gallsman on June 30, 2019, 08:11:00 AM
Fed does not have a "noted problem" on clay. Nor does Djokovic for that matter. They're both French Open and multiple Masters Series winners in clay. It's simply that Nadal is the best player on it in history by a country mile.

Nadal has won 6 slams away from RG. Six slams is all time great, hall of fame territory ffs.

I'm not knocking him, I love his grit and determination and never give up attitude when he plays. All I'm saying is he's a clay court specialist. I don't think Federer or Novak are any less a tennis player cause of the majority of their slams have been on hard and grass courts, whereas Angelo believes RG is the be and end all of tennis!

His inability to win more on the other surfaces has nothing to do with people who are 6 foot 5! He's no midget himself, possibly the same size as Fed and Novak and they have no problems. As for beating supposed weaker players, that's just rubbish! You beat who's putt in front of you, none of them are easy.

While Fed has 20 he'll be recognised as being better all round. Having a favourite player is fine to, mine is Novak, I think he's better than the other two

Sampras was no giant either but he was a monster server, probably the best server the game has seen, Federer is also one of the greatest servers the game has seen. The giraffes who excel on grass are monster servers, a monster serve alone will bring you a long, long way on grass. You call Nadal a clay court specialist, is Djokovic a hard court specialist? Is Federer a grass court specialist? Both grass and hard courts play similar so the only thing relevant that you seem to be saying is that the tennis calendar discriminates against those who excel on clay court.

There are blinding contradictions in the points you make.

Jeeze I'm bored ! Enjoy the biggest tournament in the tennis calendar tomorrow
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 30, 2019, 04:38:19 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 04:21:23 PM
Quote from: Angelo on June 30, 2019, 03:51:31 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 10:38:12 AM
Quote from: gallsman on June 30, 2019, 08:11:00 AM
Fed does not have a "noted problem" on clay. Nor does Djokovic for that matter. They're both French Open and multiple Masters Series winners in clay. It's simply that Nadal is the best player on it in history by a country mile.

Nadal has won 6 slams away from RG. Six slams is all time great, hall of fame territory ffs.

I'm not knocking him, I love his grit and determination and never give up attitude when he plays. All I'm saying is he's a clay court specialist. I don't think Federer or Novak are any less a tennis player cause of the majority of their slams have been on hard and grass courts, whereas Angelo believes RG is the be and end all of tennis!

His inability to win more on the other surfaces has nothing to do with people who are 6 foot 5! He's no midget himself, possibly the same size as Fed and Novak and they have no problems. As for beating supposed weaker players, that's just rubbish! You beat who's putt in front of you, none of them are easy.

While Fed has 20 he'll be recognised as being better all round. Having a favourite player is fine to, mine is Novak, I think he's better than the other two

Sampras was no giant either but he was a monster server, probably the best server the game has seen, Federer is also one of the greatest servers the game has seen. The giraffes who excel on grass are monster servers, a monster serve alone will bring you a long, long way on grass. You call Nadal a clay court specialist, is Djokovic a hard court specialist? Is Federer a grass court specialist? Both grass and hard courts play similar so the only thing relevant that you seem to be saying is that the tennis calendar discriminates against those who excel on clay court.

There are blinding contradictions in the points you make.

Jeeze I'm bored ! Enjoy the biggest tournament in the tennis calendar tomorrow

The biggest tournament for anglocentrics maybe but not for me.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 30, 2019, 04:39:34 PM
Quote from: Boycey on June 30, 2019, 03:54:23 PM
What facts and logic? No facts will ever define the greatest, that's subjective..

Logic certainly defines the greatest, calling a guy who was 3rd best in his era the greatest defies logic and Federer has been a distant third since the emergence of Nadal and Djokovic.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Boycey on June 30, 2019, 04:53:15 PM
I'd say you will get it hard to find many polls of either fans, media, former players, current players or any other groupings that would rate Nadal as GOAT

But you are definitely entitled to think he is... As are others to disagree, fact!

Is Wimbledon really starting tomorrow? Can't raise any enthusiasm for tennis and I'll watch any sport. 
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 04:56:32 PM
Quote from: Boycey on June 30, 2019, 04:53:15 PM
I'd say you will get it hard to find many polls of either fans, media, former players, current players or any other groupings that would rate Nadal as GOAT

But you are definitely entitled to think he is... As are others to disagree, fact!

Is Wimbledon really starting tomorrow? Can't raise any enthusiasm for tennis and I'll watch any sport.

It's like saying Batman would beat Superman  :o
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 30, 2019, 05:26:35 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 04:56:32 PM
Quote from: Boycey on June 30, 2019, 04:53:15 PM
I'd say you will get it hard to find many polls of either fans, media, former players, current players or any other groupings that would rate Nadal as GOAT

But you are definitely entitled to think he is... As are others to disagree, fact!

Is Wimbledon really starting tomorrow? Can't raise any enthusiasm for tennis and I'll watch any sport.

It's like saying Batman would beat Superman  :o

Both Nadal and Djokovic have beaten Federer consistently.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 05:32:50 PM
But he's still won more
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 30, 2019, 05:42:31 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 05:32:50 PM
But he's still won more

He's 5 years older that Nadal, 6 than Djokovic.

He won 12 of his slams when the competition was over the hill Sampras and Agassi, Hewitt, Roddick, Safin and teenage Nadal and teenage Djokovic. When Djokovic and Nadal entered their primes he was knocked back into a distant third.

It's like saying Larry Holmes was a better heavyweight than Ali.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 05:55:44 PM
Quote from: Angelo on June 30, 2019, 05:42:31 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 05:32:50 PM
But he's still won more

He's 5 years older that Nadal, 6 than Djokovic.

He won 12 of his slams when the competition was over the hill Sampras and Agassi, Hewitt, Roddick, Safin and teenage Nadal and teenage Djokovic. When Djokovic and Nadal entered their primes he was knocked back into a distant third.

It's like saying Larry Holmes was a better heavyweight than Ali.

He's won 20, that's a fact. The stats on that don't lie.

To still be competitive against lads 6 years younger than you, is some going. Naturally a player will fade as they get older. It's not his fault who he beat in all those 20 finals.

Hopefully the records shows that his were clean wins
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on June 30, 2019, 05:57:54 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 05:55:44 PM
Quote from: Angelo on June 30, 2019, 05:42:31 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 30, 2019, 05:32:50 PM
But he's still won more

He's 5 years older than Nadal, 6 than Djokovic.

He won 12 of his slams when the competition was over the hill Sampras and Agassi, Hewitt, Roddick, Safin and teenage Nadal and teenage Djokovic. When Djokovic and Nadal entered their primes he was knocked back into a distant third.

It's like saying Larry Holmes was a better heavyweight than Ali.

He's won 20, that's a fact. The stats on that don't lie.

To still be competitive against lads 6 years younger than you, is some going. Naturally a player will fade as they get older. It's not his fault who he beat in all those 20 finals.

Hopefully the records shows that his were clean wins

He's 5 years older that Nadal, 6 than Djokovic.

He won 12 of his slams when the competition was over the hill Sampras and Agassi, Hewitt, Roddick, Safin and teenage Nadal and teenage Djokovic. When Djokovic and Nadal entered their primes he was knocked back into a distant third.

You keep on ignoring the above and then try to put forward unfounded slurs.

Out of all of Nadal, Federer and Djokovic being clean, I'd say Nadal is the most likely to be clean.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on June 30, 2019, 07:06:11 PM
Quote from: Boycey on June 30, 2019, 04:53:15 PM
I'd say you will get it hard to find many polls of either fans, media, former players, current players or any other groupings that would rate Nadal as GOAT

You'd be wrong.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Boycey on June 30, 2019, 07:22:32 PM
Quote from: gallsman on June 30, 2019, 07:06:11 PM
Quote from: Boycey on June 30, 2019, 04:53:15 PM
I'd say you will get it hard to find many polls of either fans, media, former players, current players or any other groupings that would rate Nadal as GOAT

You'd be wrong.

Don't think so.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 01, 2019, 12:01:43 AM
Watch a show on McEnroe there. Still playing senior tour at 60! Some players back then, Borg Connors Lendl to name a few. 
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on July 01, 2019, 06:59:20 PM
Djokovic will walk it to the final. Tsitsipas the only one I could have seen cause him problems and he is gone now.

The ever flaky Zverev also gone.

Federer has a very handy draw to the quarters too and his opponents in the quarters should be fairly routine (likely Nishikori or Isner).

Nadal in contrast has it tough, likely Kyrgios in R2, Shapovalov in R3, Cilic in R4 and Thiem in the QF. If he is to have any chance of success this year, he needs a few of them to fall or it will be tough for him while the other two are coasting through.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Nanderson on July 01, 2019, 07:25:59 PM
Some story in the womens, Cori Gauff at 15 beating Venus Williams. Although Venus is no where near her prime, this is a big result. She looks to have a good all round game and is probably gonna end up with a similar career to the williams sisters
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on July 03, 2019, 06:48:29 PM
The giraffes are going very well on their favourite surface.

7 footer Reilly Opelka put 3 time slam champion Stan Wawrinka out today.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on July 03, 2019, 08:04:40 PM
Quote from: Angelo on July 03, 2019, 06:48:29 PM
The giraffes are going very well on their favourite surface.

7 footer Reilly Opelka put 3 time slam champion Stan Wawrinka out today.

May as well ban serving then.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gawa316 on July 03, 2019, 09:42:13 PM
Quote from: Angelo on July 03, 2019, 06:48:29 PM
The giraffes are going very well on their favourite surface.

7 footer Reilly Opelka put 3 time slam champion Stan Wawrinka out today.

Out of interest who do you is the best female player ever?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 03, 2019, 09:44:23 PM
Quote from: gawa316 on July 03, 2019, 09:42:13 PM
Quote from: Angelo on July 03, 2019, 06:48:29 PM
The giraffes are going very well on their favourite surface.

7 footer Reilly Opelka put 3 time slam champion Stan Wawrinka out today.

Out of interest who do you is the best female player ever?

Obviously someone who has won RG 10 times
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 03, 2019, 10:02:25 PM
It's clearly (six-time French Open champion) Steffi Graf.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on July 03, 2019, 10:16:17 PM
Quote from: gawa316 on July 03, 2019, 09:42:13 PM
Quote from: Angelo on July 03, 2019, 06:48:29 PM
The giraffes are going very well on their favourite surface.

7 footer Reilly Opelka put 3 time slam champion Stan Wawrinka out today.

Out of interest who do you is the best female player ever?

I wouldn't really follow the women's tennis so I couldn't really tell you.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on July 03, 2019, 10:17:29 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on July 03, 2019, 08:04:40 PM
Quote from: Angelo on July 03, 2019, 06:48:29 PM
The giraffes are going very well on their favourite surface.

7 footer Reilly Opelka put 3 time slam champion Stan Wawrinka out today.

May as well ban serving then.

I'd get rid of second serves, more of a focus then on getting the ball in play rather than trying to bludgeon aces and would also help speed the game up.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 03, 2019, 10:33:52 PM
Quote from: gallsman on July 03, 2019, 10:02:25 PM
It's clearly (six-time French Open champion) Steffi Graf.

My favourite player. Phenomenal
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on July 03, 2019, 10:45:48 PM
That forehand.

Near as good as me own
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gawa316 on July 03, 2019, 11:36:41 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 03, 2019, 10:33:52 PM
Quote from: gallsman on July 03, 2019, 10:02:25 PM
It's clearly (six-time French Open champion) Steffi Graf.

My favourite player. Phenomenal

Incredible player and unbelievable career, especially for someone with a sliced backhand
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: TabClear on July 04, 2019, 07:37:46 AM
Quote from: gawa316 on July 03, 2019, 11:36:41 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 03, 2019, 10:33:52 PM
Quote from: gallsman on July 03, 2019, 10:02:25 PM
It's clearly (six-time French Open champion) Steffi Graf.

My favourite player. Phenomenal

Incredible player and unbelievable career, especially for someone with a sliced backhand

The excitement from commentators on the rare occasions she pulled out a topspin backhand was hilarious. Like a mother watching baby taking its first step!  ;D

Loved watching her as well, fantastic athlete. Am I right in that she is the only player to have pulled off the Golden Slam? (4 majors & Olympic Title in one year?)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 04, 2019, 09:15:39 AM
Yes. She's also the only person to have won the grand slam on three different surfaces and to have won each of the slams four times. She was incredible. Seles was on the road to potentially being better than her until the stabbing.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: oakleaflad on July 04, 2019, 12:07:17 PM
Quote from: gallsman on July 04, 2019, 09:15:39 AM
Yes. She's also the only person to have won the grand slam on three different surfaces and to have won each of the slams four times. She was incredible. Seles was on the road to potentially being better than her until the stabbing.
Surely to win the grand slam you have to do it on all 3 surfaces by default? Anyway, others have done it too.

Discussion has to be between Graf, S Williams and Court imo.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on July 04, 2019, 12:08:22 PM
Wharrabout the big lesbanian
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: johnnycool on July 04, 2019, 12:14:06 PM
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 04, 2019, 12:08:22 PM
Wharrabout the big lesbanian

Arlene plays tennis?  :o
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on July 04, 2019, 12:38:02 PM
Wrestlin be her sport comrade
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on July 04, 2019, 03:44:06 PM
Quote from: oakleaflad on July 04, 2019, 12:07:17 PM
Quote from: gallsman on July 04, 2019, 09:15:39 AM
Yes. She's also the only person to have won the grand slam on three different surfaces and to have won each of the slams four times. She was incredible. Seles was on the road to potentially being better than her until the stabbing.
Surely to win the grand slam you have to do it on all 3 surfaces by default? Anyway, others have done it too.

Discussion has to be between Graf, S Williams and Court imo.

Graff won what they labelled a golden slam, which is winning everything in the one year plus the Olympics.  Others have won a career golden slam which is doing it all but not in the same year.  Winning each slam at least once is the career grand slam. 

The crazy thing with regards to Graff was that she was only 30 when she packed it in, which wasn't seen as young at the time but puts her 22 majors into perspective given that the like of Serena has been playing 7/8 years longer.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: TabClear on July 04, 2019, 03:55:24 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on July 04, 2019, 03:44:06 PM
Quote from: oakleaflad on July 04, 2019, 12:07:17 PM
Quote from: gallsman on July 04, 2019, 09:15:39 AM
Yes. She's also the only person to have won the grand slam on three different surfaces and to have won each of the slams four times. She was incredible. Seles was on the road to potentially being better than her until the stabbing.
Surely to win the grand slam you have to do it on all 3 surfaces by default? Anyway, others have done it too.

Discussion has to be between Graf, S Williams and Court imo.



Graff won what they labelled a golden slam, which is winning everything in the one year plus the Olympics.  Others have won a career golden slam which is doing it all but not in the same year.  Winning each slam at least once is the career grand slam. 

The crazy thing with regards to Graff was that she was only 30 when she packed it in, which wasn't seen as young at the time but puts her 22 majors into perspective given that the like of Serena has been playing 7/8 years longer.

And there is the equivalent of the "Tiger Slam"-holding all four slams at the same time but not in the same year.

Was just looking at the records and Graf reached 13 consecutive Grand Slam finals in a row at one point which is unreal. Federer actually did 10 in an row and 8 in a row in two separate runs between 2005 and 2010.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: oakleaflad on July 04, 2019, 04:30:38 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on July 04, 2019, 03:44:06 PM
Quote from: oakleaflad on July 04, 2019, 12:07:17 PM
Quote from: gallsman on July 04, 2019, 09:15:39 AM
Yes. She's also the only person to have won the grand slam on three different surfaces and to have won each of the slams four times. She was incredible. Seles was on the road to potentially being better than her until the stabbing.
Surely to win the grand slam you have to do it on all 3 surfaces by default? Anyway, others have done it too.

Discussion has to be between Graf, S Williams and Court imo.

Graff won what they labelled a golden slam, which is winning everything in the one year plus the Olympics.  Others have won a career golden slam which is doing it all but not in the same year.  Winning each slam at least once is the career grand slam.

The crazy thing with regards to Graff was that she was only 30 when she packed it in, which wasn't seen as young at the time but puts her 22 majors into perspective given that the like of Serena has been playing 7/8 years longer.
Yeah I know that, just not what was said. Connolly, Court and Graff are the only 3 to win all 4 majors in 1 year which is possibly what was meant.

Aye Graff packed it in early relative to Serena, as I say it's hard to say but both up there along with Court who's won the most majors as of now.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on July 04, 2019, 04:56:16 PM
Any odds on Kyrgios kicking off here as he's getting a right oul battering and it's only 3 games in!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on July 04, 2019, 05:15:58 PM
Underhand ace. Zero fcuks given  ;D
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 04, 2019, 05:22:52 PM
Quote from: oakleaflad on July 04, 2019, 12:07:17 PM
Quote from: gallsman on July 04, 2019, 09:15:39 AM
Yes. She's also the only person to have won the grand slam on three different surfaces and to have won each of the slams four times. She was incredible. Seles was on the road to potentially being better than her until the stabbing.
Surely to win the grand slam you have to do it on all 3 surfaces by default? Anyway, others have done it too.

Discussion has to be between Graf, S Williams and Court imo.

The US Open was played on grass, then clay and then finally moved to hardcourt in 1978.

The Australian open was similarly played on grass until the late 80s before moving to hardcourt.

So I repeat, correctly, that Graf's Grand Slam is the only one that was won on three different surfaces.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on July 04, 2019, 05:59:38 PM
I don't watch much tennis but have been watching Wimbledon for a change. Gees this kyrgios guy is a knob. Never seen as bad in tennis. Those underhand serves.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Rich Ricci on July 04, 2019, 06:04:05 PM
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 04, 2019, 05:59:38 PM
I don't watch much tennis but have been watching Wimbledon for a change. Gees this kyrgios guy is a knob. Never seen as bad in tennis. Those underhand serves.

+1

He's clearly very talented but by Jesus he is a grade A p***k.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: HiMucker on July 04, 2019, 08:25:31 PM
I don't think there is anything wrong with the underarm serve.
No doubt he is a bit of knob though, but as much as I like Rafa he can slow it up something fierce, and gets away with it when lesser known players would be punished.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on July 04, 2019, 08:48:21 PM
Huge win for Nadal.

Kyrgios is a monster server and he was up for it today and his first serve % was in the 70s so it was a big win Rafa had to grind out.

At the start he had a horrendous draw to make it through but with Cilic and Thiem now gone it makes it much easier. Tsonga will be tough on Saturday but should he come through that then I think we should see him in a semi at least.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on July 04, 2019, 09:15:09 PM
Yer big man was in the pub last night

I shouldve tried the oul tennis...
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: johnnycool on July 05, 2019, 09:02:40 AM
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 04, 2019, 05:59:38 PM
I don't watch much tennis but have been watching Wimbledon for a change. Gees this kyrgios guy is a knob. Never seen as bad in tennis. Those underhand serves.

Bloody brilliant IMO.

Kyrgios is just one of those lads, bundles of talent but a bit wild.

Takes all sorts as too many Henmans and Federers would bore the pish out of you.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 05, 2019, 09:04:01 AM
World number 2 beats world number 43! And it's a huge win.

What was with Nadals time wasting? Was it just to wind him up?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: JPGJOHNNYG on July 05, 2019, 09:09:55 AM
Kyrgios is a bell end. Find it bizarre that people think he is great and funny. Cant understand why Tennis puts up with these guys and doesnt just boot them off the tour. If people think his antics are entertaining then why dont they just watch WWE or something.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on July 05, 2019, 09:25:37 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 05, 2019, 09:04:01 AM
World number 2 beats world number 43! And it's a huge win.

What was with Nadals time wasting? Was it just to wind him up?

Kyrgios is a monster server, one of the best in the game. When a guy like him brings a 1st serve % in the 70s on grass and particularly in the early rounds, he will be very, very difficult to beat. It was a great result for Rafa. It should be his toughest test until the semi final at least.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: oakleaflad on July 05, 2019, 09:27:13 AM
Quote from: gallsman on July 04, 2019, 05:22:52 PM
Quote from: oakleaflad on July 04, 2019, 12:07:17 PM
Quote from: gallsman on July 04, 2019, 09:15:39 AM
Yes. She's also the only person to have won the grand slam on three different surfaces and to have won each of the slams four times. She was incredible. Seles was on the road to potentially being better than her until the stabbing.
Surely to win the grand slam you have to do it on all 3 surfaces by default? Anyway, others have done it too.

Discussion has to be between Graf, S Williams and Court imo.

The US Open was played on grass, then clay and then finally moved to hardcourt in 1978.

The Australian open was similarly played on grass until the late 80s before moving to hardcourt.

So I repeat, correctly, that Graf's Grand Slam is the only one that was won on three different surfaces.
Apologies, you are correct.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: oakleaflad on July 05, 2019, 09:30:02 AM
Can't warm to Nadal at all. Federer number 1 for me although I can see arguments for Djokovic and Nadal. Andy Murray would have been an all time great if born in any other era.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: HiMucker on July 05, 2019, 09:54:59 AM
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 05, 2019, 09:09:55 AM
Kyrgios is a bell end. Find it bizarre that people think he is great and funny. Cant understand why Tennis puts up with these guys and doesnt just boot them off the tour. If people think his antics are entertaining then why dont they just watch WWE or something.
I don't think hes great and funny but his antics are seriously blown out of proportion. Its because he goes against the grain of the image of tennis being an elite toff sport that the ruling bodies want to maintain. His behavior wouldnt garner much attention in most other sports. As Johnnycool says takes all sorts.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Keyser soze on July 05, 2019, 09:55:41 AM
Quote from: johnnycool on July 05, 2019, 09:02:40 AM
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 04, 2019, 05:59:38 PM
I don't watch much tennis but have been watching Wimbledon for a change. Gees this kyrgios guy is a knob. Never seen as bad in tennis. Those underhand serves.

Bloody brilliant IMO.

Kyrgios is just one of those lads, bundles of talent but a bit wild.

Takes all sorts as too many Henmans and Federers would bore the pish out of you.

Henman and Federer in the same sentence  ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 05, 2019, 12:03:56 PM
I'm a Nadal fan, but finding Federer's tennis boring?! Really?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: johnnycool on July 05, 2019, 01:46:45 PM
Quote from: gallsman on July 05, 2019, 12:03:56 PM
I'm a Nadal fan, but finding Federer's tennis boring?! Really?

It's more so his personality and blandness
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on July 05, 2019, 02:19:15 PM
Quote from: johnnycool on July 05, 2019, 01:46:45 PM
Quote from: gallsman on July 05, 2019, 12:03:56 PM
I'm a Nadal fan, but finding Federer's tennis boring?! Really?

It's more so his personality and blandness

Nadal is hardly the life of the party.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on July 05, 2019, 02:53:01 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on July 05, 2019, 02:19:15 PM
Quote from: johnnycool on July 05, 2019, 01:46:45 PM
Quote from: gallsman on July 05, 2019, 12:03:56 PM
I'm a Nadal fan, but finding Federer's tennis boring?! Really?

It's more so his personality and blandness

Nadal is hardly the life of the party.

Never seen Nadal in a cardigan for a pre match outfit.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 05, 2019, 04:58:48 PM
Quote from: Angelo on July 05, 2019, 02:53:01 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on July 05, 2019, 02:19:15 PM
Quote from: johnnycool on July 05, 2019, 01:46:45 PM
Quote from: gallsman on July 05, 2019, 12:03:56 PM
I'm a Nadal fan, but finding Federer's tennis boring?! Really?

It's more so his personality and blandness

Nadal is hardly the life of the party.

Never seen Nadal in a cardigan for a pre match outfit.

And of course that's the bit that doesn't make you boring!

Novak has some aces here
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: RedHand88 on July 06, 2019, 09:34:52 AM
Quote from: Angelo on July 05, 2019, 02:53:01 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on July 05, 2019, 02:19:15 PM
Quote from: johnnycool on July 05, 2019, 01:46:45 PM
Quote from: gallsman on July 05, 2019, 12:03:56 PM
I'm a Nadal fan, but finding Federer's tennis boring?! Really?

It's more so his personality and blandness

Nadal is hardly the life of the party.

Never seen Nadal in a cardigan for a pre match outfit.

Only in tennis does a cardigan make you an interesting person!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on July 06, 2019, 09:36:49 AM
Val Doonican missed a trick..
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on July 07, 2019, 08:21:02 PM
Another fairly pathetic showing from the new gen at this year's Wimbledon.

9 of the last 16 are in their 30s, just 2 of the remaining field are below the age of 27.

Federer 37
Verdasco 35
Nadal 33
Djokovic 32
Bautista Agut 31
Kukushkin 31
Querrey 31
Paire 30
Sousa 30
Nishikori 29
Pella 29
Raonic 28
Goffin 28
Sandgren 27
Berrettini 23
Humbert 21


Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 07, 2019, 09:23:13 PM
Quote from: Angelo on July 07, 2019, 08:21:02 PM
Another fairly pathetic showing from the new gen at this year's Wimbledon.

9 of the last 16 are in their 30s, just 2 of the remaining field are below the age of 27.

Federer 37
Verdasco 35
Nadal 33
Djokovic 32
Bautista Agut 31
Kukushkin 31
Querrey 31
Paire 30
Sousa 30
Nishikori 29
Pella 29
Raonic 28
Goffin 28
Sandgren 27
Berrettini 23
Humbert 21

'Heightist' 'surfacist' and now ageist!! You truly are lost on how it works, the best players win. Fed Novak and Nadal are the best players, have won on all surfaces (gland-slams) tall players don't make better players, it may help in the serve on harder surfaces but after they serve they have return them !!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Boycey on July 07, 2019, 10:00:13 PM
Jaysus I've only heard of 4 of them, back in the day ya would know most of them..
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on July 07, 2019, 11:06:21 PM
The wemen are worse again boycey.. twasnt for the williamses youd be snookered hi
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on July 07, 2019, 11:14:45 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 07, 2019, 09:23:13 PM
Quote from: Angelo on July 07, 2019, 08:21:02 PM
Another fairly pathetic showing from the new gen at this year's Wimbledon.

9 of the last 16 are in their 30s, just 2 of the remaining field are below the age of 27.

Federer 37
Verdasco 35
Nadal 33
Djokovic 32
Bautista Agut 31
Kukushkin 31
Querrey 31
Paire 30
Sousa 30
Nishikori 29
Pella 29
Raonic 28
Goffin 28
Sandgren 27
Berrettini 23
Humbert 21

'Heightist' 'surfacist' and now ageist!! You truly are lost on how it works, the best players win. Fed Novak and Nadal are the best players, have won on all surfaces (gland-slams) tall players don't make better players, it may help in the serve on harder surfaces but after they serve they have return them !!

You're very tetchy.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 10, 2019, 07:02:40 PM
The Big 3 have waltzed to the semifinal absolutely untouched. Batista Agut might give Djokovic a decent game this year and the Nadal-Federer match should be close. Nadal probably playing marginally better then the other two.

After the '08 final I'm not sure many people would have reckoned it would take 11 years to get the rematch.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on July 10, 2019, 07:31:29 PM
The Belgian completely capitulated against Djokovic. He looked fantastic and then just fell apart(or Djokovic just sussed him out)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 10, 2019, 09:12:39 PM
So this stupid competition of only giraffes who hit big serves has allowed average size tennis players into the last four? No way
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on July 10, 2019, 09:43:47 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 10, 2019, 09:12:39 PM
So this stupid competition of only giraffes who hit big serves has allowed average size tennis players into the last four? No way

The giraffes go a lot better on Wimbledon than they do on any other surface. That's just proven in the stats. Guys like Karolovic (6ft11), Isner (6ft10), Opelka (7ft), Anderson (6ft8) all have had their best career performances at Wimbledon. Slam finalists like Philopoussis, winners like Kraijcek - everything comes off the serve. Guys like Raonic and Cilic have been finalists in recent years, Big Sam Querrey has been in the last 8 three times in 4 years and the last 4 once in that time.

Last year we had a semi final with over 100 aces in it between a 6ft10 and 6ft8 giraffe.

Generally the bigger and taller you are, the better you serve. But it's not always the case, Federer is one of the best servers the game has seen. Peter Sampras was not a giraffe but he was a pretty one dimensional player where everything came off his serve.

A big serve alone will bring you a long, long way on grass - you just have to look at the performances of the big servers on grass.


This year the giraffes didn't go as well, maybe some of them are past their best.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on July 10, 2019, 09:49:45 PM
Fancy Nadal to make it 11-3 in his head to head with Federer on Friday.

Even though it's Federer's favourite surface I think Nadal is playing with real confidence at the minute, he looks fit and healthy and I haven't seen him play as aggressive and boss games on grass like he has been doing this year for a long time.

Djokovic should come through his semi with relative ease and will still be the man to beat.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Kidder81 on July 10, 2019, 10:05:04 PM
Quote from: Angelo on July 10, 2019, 09:49:45 PM
Fancy Nadal to make it 11-3 in his head to head with Federer on Friday.

Even though it's Federer's favourite surface I think Nadal is playing with real confidence at the minute, he looks fit and healthy and I haven't seen him play as aggressive and boss games on grass like he has been doing this year for a long time.

Djokovic should come through his semi with relative ease and will still be the man to beat.

Yeah Nadals fitness is unbelievable  ::)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 10, 2019, 10:05:15 PM
You're actually full of crap, Sampras one dimensional! You'll be tell me Borg was one dimensional also ffs!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 10, 2019, 10:58:03 PM
Quote from: Kidder81 on July 10, 2019, 10:05:04 PM
Quote from: Angelo on July 10, 2019, 09:49:45 PM
Fancy Nadal to make it 11-3 in his head to head with Federer on Friday.

Even though it's Federer's favourite surface I think Nadal is playing with real confidence at the minute, he looks fit and healthy and I haven't seen him play as aggressive and boss games on grass like he has been doing this year for a long time.

Djokovic should come through his semi with relative ease and will still be the man to beat.

Yeah Nadals fitness is unbelievable  ::)

Same for Djokovic and Federer. Absolutely unbelievable stuff.

Must be the gluten free diets.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on July 10, 2019, 11:28:42 PM
Quote from: Kidder81 on July 10, 2019, 10:05:04 PM
Quote from: Angelo on July 10, 2019, 09:49:45 PM
Fancy Nadal to make it 11-3 in his head to head with Federer on Friday.

Even though it's Federer's favourite surface I think Nadal is playing with real confidence at the minute, he looks fit and healthy and I haven't seen him play as aggressive and boss games on grass like he has been doing this year for a long time.

Djokovic should come through his semi with relative ease and will still be the man to beat.

Yeah Nadals fitness is unbelievable  ::)

His fitness?

Nadal is probably the least suspicious in that regard in terms of the top 3, injuries have cost him so many slams over the years and he has had to very carefully manage his schedule year to year. He's also had to completely alter his game in the past few years in order to compensate for the injuries he has had and his knee problems. Djokovic and Federer play pretty much the same game physically without much deterioration from their peak. Nadal's game is noticeably more different now which is probably why he struggles a little more with Djokovic than he would have in the past.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on July 10, 2019, 11:30:08 PM
He is the one who has most accusations levelled at him.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on July 10, 2019, 11:34:14 PM
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 10, 2019, 11:30:08 PM
He is the one who has most accusations levelled at him.

It's bizarre, there doesn't really seem to be any foundation to it at all. Of the big three, Nadal is probably the one you would have the least suspicions about given his injury troubles, having to readapt his game due to physical problems and the amount of time he has had to miss.

Is it because he has big muscles? I hate to break it to some people but Lance Armstrong's muscles didn't get bigger when he got dirty - they went the other way.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on July 10, 2019, 11:42:29 PM
I think he might have been one of the names leaked in that Russian hack for all the athletes with tues.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 10, 2019, 11:45:12 PM
Any other tennis players named on that? In fairness to Nadal he's won damaged against people who claimed he was using.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on July 10, 2019, 11:50:39 PM
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 10, 2019, 11:42:29 PM
I think he might have been one of the names leaked in that Russian hack for all the athletes with tues.

But there was nothing suspicious in that at all. Just that he was given TUE for anti inflammatories after two tournaments, Nadal's knee issues and tendonitis are extremely well known at this stage, we all know the issues hard courts in particular throw up for his knees. Everything above board and approved by anti-doping authorities.

It's certainly bizarre that there always seems to be murmurs about Nadal when there seems to be a much stronger basis for other players.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on July 10, 2019, 11:56:35 PM
The Fancy Bears named No Farah as a doper so it can't be true
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on July 11, 2019, 10:37:09 AM
Who are the other players that you reckon there is a much stronger basis for?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: oakleaflad on July 11, 2019, 10:55:19 AM
Was there not some craic about blood bags being destroyed or something in Spain a while back that Nadal and a heap of Spanish footballers were linked to?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 11, 2019, 11:23:32 AM
Quote from: nrico2006 on July 11, 2019, 10:37:09 AM
Who are the other players that you reckon there is a much stronger basis for?

Djokovic for one. Until 2011 he had repeatedly shown a tendency to break down in tournaments and throw the head up and quit or retire injured. Then he became unstoppable the year he turned 24. Because he cut out gluten.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on July 11, 2019, 12:08:30 PM
Quote from: oakleaflad on July 11, 2019, 10:55:19 AM
Was there not some craic about blood bags being destroyed or something in Spain a while back that Nadal and a heap of Spanish footballers were linked to?

There were no links to Nadal other than the doctor was the same nationality as Nadal.

All the murmurs are simply innuendo based, there's not anything that would link him to it more than the other top players.

There would be more basis to speculate against Federer and Djokovic in this regard but again like Nadal there is no basis to support it.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: oakleaflad on July 11, 2019, 12:15:13 PM
To be fair, I remember seeing a segment on Nadal on Trans World Sport when he was a teenager and he was clearly an outrageous talent.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: trailer on July 11, 2019, 12:28:44 PM
They're all juiced and anyone who thinks they aren't is being played for a fool. In fact there's no sport untouched. When the money involved is so large it pays (handsomely) to take the small risk of being caught.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on July 11, 2019, 12:39:43 PM
There's some french guy who has a real beef with Nadal over a six to seven month injury absence in 2012 and is adamant it was to prevent himself getting done. I think it has either ended in court or threats of it.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on July 11, 2019, 12:45:44 PM
Quote from: oakleaflad on July 11, 2019, 12:15:13 PM
To be fair, I remember seeing a segment on Nadal on Trans World Sport when he was a teenager and he was clearly an outrageous talent.
The juice factor for these lads is obviously about stamina recovery from matches and injury, rather than skill level. The tennis tour is absolutely punishing at the top level so I'd say they take whatever "marginal gain" they can.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on July 11, 2019, 01:21:17 PM
Probably like sprinters really. The drugs won't make them quicker but they will improve muscle repair etc enabling them to train or compete harder. I suspect the epo like drugs more beneficial to endurance rather than the short burst sports(though would have some value I guess).

All speculation mind. They may or may not be on anything. Like farah, I suspect, we will never really know.

Any which way those top 3 are absolute machines.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on July 11, 2019, 01:45:21 PM
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 11, 2019, 01:21:17 PM
Probably like sprinters really. The drugs won't make them quicker but they will improve muscle repair etc enabling them to train or compete harder. I suspect the epo like drugs more beneficial to endurance rather than the short burst sports(though would have some value I guess).

All speculation mind. They may or may not be on anything. Like farah, I suspect, we will never really know.

Any which way those top 3 are absolute machines.

And Nadal is the one whose body has broken down and has had to miss many tournaments year on year with physical issues. If doping was the issue at hand I'd be more concerned in looking at the guys who are to play consistently injury free over years.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on July 11, 2019, 01:46:44 PM
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 11, 2019, 12:39:43 PM
There's some french guy who has a real beef with Nadal over a six to seven month injury absence in 2012 and is adamant it was to prevent himself getting done. I think it has either ended in court or threats of it.

It was a lady, former French Sports minister and she was forced to pay damages to Nadal after it went to court.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 12, 2019, 07:46:16 PM
Wow can't believe a 37 year old (38 next month) beat the best player in the world !
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: An Watcher on July 12, 2019, 07:48:19 PM
Some final set there
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on July 12, 2019, 07:49:20 PM
Great viewing. Fantastic watching a battle like that with two guys so good at what they do.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 12, 2019, 08:00:42 PM
Amazing tennis. The best three players meeting in the last stages showing that Wimbledon got it right.

Novak will fancy his chances but there's life in the old dog yet.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mouview on July 12, 2019, 10:49:41 PM
Fed. GOAT.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: under the bar on July 12, 2019, 11:36:59 PM
GOAT professional sportsperson probably. Still beating world no 1s at his game  when others would be long retired.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: macdanger2 on July 12, 2019, 11:39:45 PM
Is Federer on drugs? At 37, it's hard to take him at face value
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: JimStynes on July 13, 2019, 12:05:58 AM
Tennis is as bad a cycling for drugs ffs
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 13, 2019, 12:27:17 AM
Quote from: JimStynes on July 13, 2019, 12:05:58 AM
Tennis is as bad a cycling for drugs ffs

So if they are all at it then there's no one getting an upperhand?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: JimStynes on July 13, 2019, 12:34:03 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 13, 2019, 12:27:17 AM
Quote from: JimStynes on July 13, 2019, 12:05:58 AM
Tennis is as bad a cycling for drugs ffs

So if they are all at it then there's no one getting an upperhand?

Don't think it works like that! Some react better with drugs, some have better pharmacist, some are clean and some get caught. Have a read at some of the stuff on operation peurto and Nadal.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 13, 2019, 12:48:47 AM
Quote from: JimStynes on July 13, 2019, 12:34:03 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 13, 2019, 12:27:17 AM
Quote from: JimStynes on July 13, 2019, 12:05:58 AM
Tennis is as bad a cycling for drugs ffs

So if they are all at it then there's no one getting an upperhand?

Don't think it works like that! Some react better with drugs, some have better pharmacist, some are clean and some get caught. Have a read at some of the stuff on operation peurto and Nadal.

But Nadal is clean
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on July 13, 2019, 06:24:20 AM
Quote from: macdanger2 on July 12, 2019, 11:39:45 PM
Is Federer on drugs? At 37, it's hard to take him at face value

No. Is Dublin on drugs? How else can they win so many all-Ireland's?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on July 13, 2019, 11:25:51 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 13, 2019, 12:48:47 AM
Quote from: JimStynes on July 13, 2019, 12:34:03 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 13, 2019, 12:27:17 AM
Quote from: JimStynes on July 13, 2019, 12:05:58 AM
Tennis is as bad a cycling for drugs ffs

So if they are all at it then there's no one getting an upperhand?

Don't think it works like that! Some react better with drugs, some have better pharmacist, some are clean and some get caught. Have a read at some of the stuff on operation peurto and Nadal.

But Nadal is clean

So was Lance Armstrong  ;)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on July 13, 2019, 10:58:19 PM
Is it fair that Halep had breast reduction?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on July 13, 2019, 11:57:43 PM
Big Serenas on the Google as we speak...
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on July 14, 2019, 08:15:59 AM
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 13, 2019, 11:57:43 PM
Big Serenas on the Google as we speak...

Lol
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on July 14, 2019, 08:26:27 AM
The Nadal-Federer semi-final took a while to get going but the last couple of sets were superb. Just felt Rafa was always having to chase it, losing the first few points on every game and always finding himself in trouble but he dug in and battled like nobody else can.

Federer certainly has another few years left at the top level.

He has never beaten both Djokovic and Nadal in the same slam so it would be some feat for him to do this year but hard to look past Djokovic. Once again the first set is crucial, Federer wins it and I fancy him to do it, Djokovic takes it and I really struggle to see how he can come back.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: under the bar on July 14, 2019, 07:00:04 PM
Some final this!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Maiden1 on July 14, 2019, 07:02:00 PM
Quote from: under the bar on July 14, 2019, 07:00:04 PM
Some final this!
Nearly as good as the cricket, super over to win WC
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: TheOptimist on July 14, 2019, 07:04:06 PM
Quote from: Maiden1 on July 14, 2019, 07:02:00 PM
Quote from: under the bar on July 14, 2019, 07:00:04 PM
Some final this!
Nearly as good as the cricket, super over to win WC

See that. So what is a super over?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Maiden1 on July 14, 2019, 07:05:22 PM
Quote from: TheOptimist on July 14, 2019, 07:04:06 PM
Quote from: Maiden1 on July 14, 2019, 07:02:00 PM
Quote from: under the bar on July 14, 2019, 07:00:04 PM
Some final this!
Nearly as good as the cricket, super over to win WC

See that. So what is a super over?
1 over each.

England seriously lucky. Last over Stokes stuck it up in air guy caught it then walked over the line. 6 runs England. Couple balls later England scramble for 2 and guy tried to stump him and it hits Stokes bat on way to wicked and that goes for 6.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Boycey on July 14, 2019, 07:35:50 PM
Lol, the explanation of someone who doesn't really follow cricket id say. Incredible excitement but a harsh way to lose, just play another super over ffs
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Maiden1 on July 14, 2019, 07:40:12 PM
Quote from: Boycey on July 14, 2019, 07:35:50 PM
Lol, the explanation of someone who doesn't really follow cricket id say. Incredible excitement but a harsh way to lose, just play another super over ffs
Haha that's true. I might take it up.

Better explanation.

https://i.stuff.co.nz/sport/cricket/cricket-world-cup/114235286/cricket-world-cup-2019-englands-ben-stokes-deflects-throw-for-six
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 02:17:10 AM
Vamos Rafa!!!

No 19

He had to win that game three times after throwing it away twice. I don't think he'd have recovered from that if he lost it.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on September 09, 2019, 02:22:46 AM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 02:17:10 AM
Vamos Rafa!!!

No 19

He had to win that game three times after throwing it away twice. I don't think he'd have recovered from that if he lost it.

Amazing match, my compatriot did us proud there, both in need of an IV i think.

Rafa too tough in the end.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on September 09, 2019, 02:27:05 AM
Incredible final
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 06:50:19 PM
If Medvedev can sustain or build up this year's summer hard court form then he will win a hard court slam next year for sure.

I think Djokovic might now struggle to reach 20, the next gen will all be taking confidence from Medvedev and they will have the belief that they are as good or better than them. The problem for Djokovic is that they are all at their best on hard courts, guys like Zverev, Tsitsipas, Rublev, Khachanov, FAA and Shapovalov all have a game made for hard courts and that's Djokovic's bread and butter.

I think the changing of guard is now going to come a lot sooner than people think and I think we'll have a next gen slam champion for sure next season.

I think Nadal will just do enough (injury permitting) to oust Federer in slam titles and rightfully take his place as the GOAT. He still has no peers on clay and I think if he gets the next two years of play without injuries or setbacks he will pick up one or two RG. I think last night might be his last non-clay slam though.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on September 09, 2019, 10:02:21 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 06:50:19 PM
If Medvedev can sustain or build up this year's summer hard court form then he will win a hard court slam next year for sure.

I think Djokovic might now struggle to reach 20, the next gen will all be taking confidence from Medvedev and they will have the belief that they are as good or better than them. The problem for Djokovic is that they are all at their best on hard courts, guys like Zverev, Tsitsipas, Rublev, Khachanov, FAA and Shapovalov all have a game made for hard courts and that's Djokovic's bread and butter.

I think the changing of guard is now going to come a lot sooner than people think and I think we'll have a next gen slam champion for sure next season.

I think Nadal will just do enough (injury permitting) to oust Federer in slam titles and rightfully take his place as the GOAT. He still has no peers on clay and I think if he gets the next two years of play without injuries or setbacks he will pick up one or two RG. I think last night might be his last non-clay slam though.

I reckon Djokovic will easily hit 20 and finish top of the pile. Then again, Nadal could keep winning at RG until he is 40.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:22:41 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 06:50:19 PM
If Medvedev can sustain or build up this year's summer hard court form then he will win a hard court slam next year for sure.

I think Djokovic might now struggle to reach 20, the next gen will all be taking confidence from Medvedev and they will have the belief that they are as good or better than them. The problem for Djokovic is that they are all at their best on hard courts, guys like Zverev, Tsitsipas, Rublev, Khachanov, FAA and Shapovalov all have a game made for hard courts and that's Djokovic's bread and butter.

I think the changing of guard is now going to come a lot sooner than people think and I think we'll have a next gen slam champion for sure next season.

I think Nadal will just do enough (injury permitting) to oust Federer in slam titles and rightfully take his place as the GOAT. He still has no peers on clay and I think if he gets the next two years of play without injuries or setbacks he will pick up one or two RG. I think last night might be his last non-clay slam though.

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Thats like saying Mick Lyons was a better footballer than Maurice Fitzgerald
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on September 09, 2019, 10:32:16 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:22:41 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 06:50:19 PM
If Medvedev can sustain or build up this year's summer hard court form then he will win a hard court slam next year for sure.

I think Djokovic might now struggle to reach 20, the next gen will all be taking confidence from Medvedev and they will have the belief that they are as good or better than them. The problem for Djokovic is that they are all at their best on hard courts, guys like Zverev, Tsitsipas, Rublev, Khachanov, FAA and Shapovalov all have a game made for hard courts and that's Djokovic's bread and butter.

I think the changing of guard is now going to come a lot sooner than people think and I think we'll have a next gen slam champion for sure next season.

I think Nadal will just do enough (injury permitting) to oust Federer in slam titles and rightfully take his place as the GOAT. He still has no peers on clay and I think if he gets the next two years of play without injuries or setbacks he will pick up one or two RG. I think last night might be his last non-clay slam though.

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Thats like saying Mick Lyons was a better footballer than Maurice Fitzgerald

Only for a moron who doesn't understand tennis. Oh wait.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 10:37:41 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:22:41 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 06:50:19 PM
If Medvedev can sustain or build up this year's summer hard court form then he will win a hard court slam next year for sure.

I think Djokovic might now struggle to reach 20, the next gen will all be taking confidence from Medvedev and they will have the belief that they are as good or better than them. The problem for Djokovic is that they are all at their best on hard courts, guys like Zverev, Tsitsipas, Rublev, Khachanov, FAA and Shapovalov all have a game made for hard courts and that's Djokovic's bread and butter.

I think the changing of guard is now going to come a lot sooner than people think and I think we'll have a next gen slam champion for sure next season.

I think Nadal will just do enough (injury permitting) to oust Federer in slam titles and rightfully take his place as the GOAT. He still has no peers on clay and I think if he gets the next two years of play without injuries or setbacks he will pick up one or two RG. I think last night might be his last non-clay slam though.

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Thats like saying Mick Lyons was a better footballer than Maurice Fitzgerald

There's no real question between Nadal and Federer. Nadal is miles ahead. The real debate is between Nadal and Djokovic.

Nadal has a superior head to head over Federer and Djokovic at slams.

Federer made hay when the competition was weak. He won 12 of his 20 slams between 2003-07. That was before Nadal and Djokovic established themselves, he was up against the likes of Hewitt, Roddick, Nalbandian, Davydenko and Safin for slams. All these guys were busted flushes in their mid 20s, they struggled to compete with the likes of Murray, Wawrinka, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Cilic, Feeder etc nevermind Nadal and Djokovic and this was Federer's main competition then.

Look at the early finals Federer had - Philippoussis, Safin, Roddick, Hewitt, a mid 30s Agassi, a teenage Nadal, Gonzalez.

It's a bit like when Gooch would rip it up in an All Ireland final against poor Cork and Mayo teams but struggle in the big tests.

Federer's record is padded by having a 5 year head start on Nadal and Djokovic. There's no way he would have got to 20 had he came through at the same time. The question for no 1 remains between Nadal and Djokovic but Federer is no 3.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:49:23 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 10:37:41 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:22:41 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 06:50:19 PM
If Medvedev can sustain or build up this year's summer hard court form then he will win a hard court slam next year for sure.

I think Djokovic might now struggle to reach 20, the next gen will all be taking confidence from Medvedev and they will have the belief that they are as good or better than them. The problem for Djokovic is that they are all at their best on hard courts, guys like Zverev, Tsitsipas, Rublev, Khachanov, FAA and Shapovalov all have a game made for hard courts and that's Djokovic's bread and butter.

I think the changing of guard is now going to come a lot sooner than people think and I think we'll have a next gen slam champion for sure next season.

I think Nadal will just do enough (injury permitting) to oust Federer in slam titles and rightfully take his place as the GOAT. He still has no peers on clay and I think if he gets the next two years of play without injuries or setbacks he will pick up one or two RG. I think last night might be his last non-clay slam though.

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Thats like saying Mick Lyons was a better footballer than Maurice Fitzgerald

There's no real question between Nadal and Federer. Nadal is miles ahead. The real debate is between Nadal and Djokovic.

Nadal has a superior head to head over Federer and Djokovic at slams.

Federer made hay when the competition was weak. He won 12 of his 20 slams between 2003-07. That was before Nadal and Djokovic established themselves, he was up against the likes of Hewitt, Roddick, Nalbandian, Davydenko and Safin for slams. All these guys were busted flushes in their mid 20s, they struggled to compete with the likes of Murray, Wawrinka, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Cilic, Feeder etc nevermind Nadal and Djokovic and this was Federer's main competition then.

Look at the early finals Federer had - Philippoussis, Safin, Roddick, Hewitt, a mid 30s Agassi, a teenage Nadal, Gonzalez.

It's a bit like when Gooch would rip it up in an All Ireland final against poor Cork and Mayo teams but struggle in the big tests.

Federer's record is padded by having a 5 year head start on Nadal and Djokovic. There's no way he would have got to 20 had he came through at the same time. The question for no 1 remains between Nadal and Djokovic but Federer is no 3.

Thats all fine and well but he's still a bull in a China shop
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 11:18:45 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:49:23 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 10:37:41 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:22:41 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 06:50:19 PM
If Medvedev can sustain or build up this year's summer hard court form then he will win a hard court slam next year for sure.

I think Djokovic might now struggle to reach 20, the next gen will all be taking confidence from Medvedev and they will have the belief that they are as good or better than them. The problem for Djokovic is that they are all at their best on hard courts, guys like Zverev, Tsitsipas, Rublev, Khachanov, FAA and Shapovalov all have a game made for hard courts and that's Djokovic's bread and butter.

I think the changing of guard is now going to come a lot sooner than people think and I think we'll have a next gen slam champion for sure next season.

I think Nadal will just do enough (injury permitting) to oust Federer in slam titles and rightfully take his place as the GOAT. He still has no peers on clay and I think if he gets the next two years of play without injuries or setbacks he will pick up one or two RG. I think last night might be his last non-clay slam though.

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Thats like saying Mick Lyons was a better footballer than Maurice Fitzgerald

There's no real question between Nadal and Federer. Nadal is miles ahead. The real debate is between Nadal and Djokovic.

Nadal has a superior head to head over Federer and Djokovic at slams.

Federer made hay when the competition was weak. He won 12 of his 20 slams between 2003-07. That was before Nadal and Djokovic established themselves, he was up against the likes of Hewitt, Roddick, Nalbandian, Davydenko and Safin for slams. All these guys were busted flushes in their mid 20s, they struggled to compete with the likes of Murray, Wawrinka, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Cilic, Feeder etc nevermind Nadal and Djokovic and this was Federer's main competition then.

Look at the early finals Federer had - Philippoussis, Safin, Roddick, Hewitt, a mid 30s Agassi, a teenage Nadal, Gonzalez.

It's a bit like when Gooch would rip it up in an All Ireland final against poor Cork and Mayo teams but struggle in the big tests.

Federer's record is padded by having a 5 year head start on Nadal and Djokovic. There's no way he would have got to 20 had he came through at the same time. The question for no 1 remains between Nadal and Djokovic but Federer is no 3.

Thats all fine and well but he's still a bull in a China shop

Clearly you don't watch him much.

A bull in a china shop would not dominate clay court tennis, you actually need to be able to craft and create shots rather than bludgeon the ball past your opponents and serve heavy like hard and grass courts require.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 11:24:58 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 11:18:45 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:49:23 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 10:37:41 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:22:41 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 06:50:19 PM
If Medvedev can sustain or build up this year's summer hard court form then he will win a hard court slam next year for sure.

I think Djokovic might now struggle to reach 20, the next gen will all be taking confidence from Medvedev and they will have the belief that they are as good or better than them. The problem for Djokovic is that they are all at their best on hard courts, guys like Zverev, Tsitsipas, Rublev, Khachanov, FAA and Shapovalov all have a game made for hard courts and that's Djokovic's bread and butter.

I think the changing of guard is now going to come a lot sooner than people think and I think we'll have a next gen slam champion for sure next season.

I think Nadal will just do enough (injury permitting) to oust Federer in slam titles and rightfully take his place as the GOAT. He still has no peers on clay and I think if he gets the next two years of play without injuries or setbacks he will pick up one or two RG. I think last night might be his last non-clay slam though.

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Thats like saying Mick Lyons was a better footballer than Maurice Fitzgerald

There's no real question between Nadal and Federer. Nadal is miles ahead. The real debate is between Nadal and Djokovic.

Nadal has a superior head to head over Federer and Djokovic at slams.

Federer made hay when the competition was weak. He won 12 of his 20 slams between 2003-07. That was before Nadal and Djokovic established themselves, he was up against the likes of Hewitt, Roddick, Nalbandian, Davydenko and Safin for slams. All these guys were busted flushes in their mid 20s, they struggled to compete with the likes of Murray, Wawrinka, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Cilic, Feeder etc nevermind Nadal and Djokovic and this was Federer's main competition then.

Look at the early finals Federer had - Philippoussis, Safin, Roddick, Hewitt, a mid 30s Agassi, a teenage Nadal, Gonzalez.

It's a bit like when Gooch would rip it up in an All Ireland final against poor Cork and Mayo teams but struggle in the big tests.

Federer's record is padded by having a 5 year head start on Nadal and Djokovic. There's no way he would have got to 20 had he came through at the same time. The question for no 1 remains between Nadal and Djokovic but Federer is no 3.

Thats all fine and well but he's still a bull in a China shop

Clearly you don't watch him much.

A bull in a china shop would not dominate clay court tennis, you actually need to be able to craft and create shots rather than bludgeon the ball past your opponents and serve heavy like hard and grass courts require.

You clearly don't know finesse when you see it. Fed is obviously more technically gifted and naturally talented than either he just doesnt have the same physical attributes.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mouview on September 09, 2019, 11:42:43 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 10:37:41 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:22:41 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 06:50:19 PM
If Medvedev can sustain or build up this year's summer hard court form then he will win a hard court slam next year for sure.

I think Djokovic might now struggle to reach 20, the next gen will all be taking confidence from Medvedev and they will have the belief that they are as good or better than them. The problem for Djokovic is that they are all at their best on hard courts, guys like Zverev, Tsitsipas, Rublev, Khachanov, FAA and Shapovalov all have a game made for hard courts and that's Djokovic's bread and butter.

I think the changing of guard is now going to come a lot sooner than people think and I think we'll have a next gen slam champion for sure next season.

I think Nadal will just do enough (injury permitting) to oust Federer in slam titles and rightfully take his place as the GOAT. He still has no peers on clay and I think if he gets the next two years of play without injuries or setbacks he will pick up one or two RG. I think last night might be his last non-clay slam though.

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Thats like saying Mick Lyons was a better footballer than Maurice Fitzgerald

There's no real question between Nadal and Federer. Nadal is miles ahead. The real debate is between Nadal and Djokovic.

Nadal has a superior head to head over Federer and Djokovic at slams.

Federer made hay when the competition was weak. He won 12 of his 20 slams between 2003-07. That was before Nadal and Djokovic established themselves, he was up against the likes of Hewitt, Roddick, Nalbandian, Davydenko and Safin for slams. All these guys were busted flushes in their mid 20s, they struggled to compete with the likes of Murray, Wawrinka, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Cilic, Feeder etc nevermind Nadal and Djokovic and this was Federer's main competition then.

Look at the early finals Federer had - Philippoussis, Safin, Roddick, Hewitt, a mid 30s Agassi, a teenage Nadal, Gonzalez.

It's a bit like when Gooch would rip it up in an All Ireland final against poor Cork and Mayo teams but struggle in the big tests.

Federer's record is padded by having a 5 year head start on Nadal and Djokovic. There's no way he would have got to 20 had he came through at the same time. The question for no 1 remains between Nadal and Djokovic but Federer is no 3.

Umm.. Nadal couldn't get the better of Fed at Wimbledon this year, in spite of the advantage of years. I do think Nadal will surpass Fed because of his superiority on clay, but I cannot agree that he's a better player, and I think the vast majority would agree with this. 
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 11:58:00 PM
Quote from: mouview on September 09, 2019, 11:42:43 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 10:37:41 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:22:41 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 06:50:19 PM
If Medvedev can sustain or build up this year's summer hard court form then he will win a hard court slam next year for sure.

I think Djokovic might now struggle to reach 20, the next gen will all be taking confidence from Medvedev and they will have the belief that they are as good or better than them. The problem for Djokovic is that they are all at their best on hard courts, guys like Zverev, Tsitsipas, Rublev, Khachanov, FAA and Shapovalov all have a game made for hard courts and that's Djokovic's bread and butter.

I think the changing of guard is now going to come a lot sooner than people think and I think we'll have a next gen slam champion for sure next season.

I think Nadal will just do enough (injury permitting) to oust Federer in slam titles and rightfully take his place as the GOAT. He still has no peers on clay and I think if he gets the next two years of play without injuries or setbacks he will pick up one or two RG. I think last night might be his last non-clay slam though.

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Thats like saying Mick Lyons was a better footballer than Maurice Fitzgerald

There's no real question between Nadal and Federer. Nadal is miles ahead. The real debate is between Nadal and Djokovic.

Nadal has a superior head to head over Federer and Djokovic at slams.

Federer made hay when the competition was weak. He won 12 of his 20 slams between 2003-07. That was before Nadal and Djokovic established themselves, he was up against the likes of Hewitt, Roddick, Nalbandian, Davydenko and Safin for slams. All these guys were busted flushes in their mid 20s, they struggled to compete with the likes of Murray, Wawrinka, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Cilic, Feeder etc nevermind Nadal and Djokovic and this was Federer's main competition then.

Look at the early finals Federer had - Philippoussis, Safin, Roddick, Hewitt, a mid 30s Agassi, a teenage Nadal, Gonzalez.

It's a bit like when Gooch would rip it up in an All Ireland final against poor Cork and Mayo teams but struggle in the big tests.

Federer's record is padded by having a 5 year head start on Nadal and Djokovic. There's no way he would have got to 20 had he came through at the same time. The question for no 1 remains between Nadal and Djokovic but Federer is no 3.

Umm.. Nadal couldn't get the better of Fed at Wimbledon this year, in spite of the advantage of years. I do think Nadal will surpass Fed because of his superiority on clay, but I cannot agree that he's a better player, and I think the vast majority would agree with this.

He will pass Federer because he's been a better player than him. 12 of Federer's slams came between 03-07, look at his main challengers, look at how they survived the influx of challengers in the subsequent years.

5 US Opens for Federer 04-08, not one since then. Why? Djokovic and Nadal. He couldn't compete with them. I actually think Nadal us further off his peak years now than Federer is. Nadal is the one who has had to adapt his game, the way he plays now is completely different to the Nadal of old, he moves less, he serves heavier and he shortens the points. Up until last night's final, his longest game this year had been 3 hrs and 15 minutes this year.

People might prefer Federer's style, but Nadal is a much more complete all rounder and I don't think anyone can  find solutions quite like Nadal can. The stats don't lie, even with all the factors against Nadal, injuries, tougher era, slam season discriminating against clay courters, he still looks like he may well surpass Federer in spite of all the hurdles.

Nadal has adapted and been successful on all surfaces. Why hasn't Federer been able to make a dent on clay?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 10, 2019, 12:06:53 AM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 11:24:58 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 11:18:45 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:49:23 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 10:37:41 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:22:41 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 06:50:19 PM
If Medvedev can sustain or build up this year's summer hard court form then he will win a hard court slam next year for sure.

I think Djokovic might now struggle to reach 20, the next gen will all be taking confidence from Medvedev and they will have the belief that they are as good or better than them. The problem for Djokovic is that they are all at their best on hard courts, guys like Zverev, Tsitsipas, Rublev, Khachanov, FAA and Shapovalov all have a game made for hard courts and that's Djokovic's bread and butter.

I think the changing of guard is now going to come a lot sooner than people think and I think we'll have a next gen slam champion for sure next season.

I think Nadal will just do enough (injury permitting) to oust Federer in slam titles and rightfully take his place as the GOAT. He still has no peers on clay and I think if he gets the next two years of play without injuries or setbacks he will pick up one or two RG. I think last night might be his last non-clay slam though.

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Thats like saying Mick Lyons was a better footballer than Maurice Fitzgerald

There's no real question between Nadal and Federer. Nadal is miles ahead. The real debate is between Nadal and Djokovic.

Nadal has a superior head to head over Federer and Djokovic at slams.

Federer made hay when the competition was weak. He won 12 of his 20 slams between 2003-07. That was before Nadal and Djokovic established themselves, he was up against the likes of Hewitt, Roddick, Nalbandian, Davydenko and Safin for slams. All these guys were busted flushes in their mid 20s, they struggled to compete with the likes of Murray, Wawrinka, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Cilic, Feeder etc nevermind Nadal and Djokovic and this was Federer's main competition then.

Look at the early finals Federer had - Philippoussis, Safin, Roddick, Hewitt, a mid 30s Agassi, a teenage Nadal, Gonzalez.

It's a bit like when Gooch would rip it up in an All Ireland final against poor Cork and Mayo teams but struggle in the big tests.

Federer's record is padded by having a 5 year head start on Nadal and Djokovic. There's no way he would have got to 20 had he came through at the same time. The question for no 1 remains between Nadal and Djokovic but Federer is no 3.

Thats all fine and well but he's still a bull in a China shop

Clearly you don't watch him much.

A bull in a china shop would not dominate clay court tennis, you actually need to be able to craft and create shots rather than bludgeon the ball past your opponents and serve heavy like hard and grass courts require.

You clearly don't know finesse when you see it. Fed is obviously more technically gifted and naturally talented than either he just doesnt have the same physical attributes.

Finesse is aesthetic. He doesn't have the same physical attributes but neither does he have the same craft and problem solving ability that Nadal has.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: omaghjoe on September 10, 2019, 10:18:35 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 10, 2019, 12:06:53 AM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 11:24:58 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 11:18:45 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:49:23 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 10:37:41 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:22:41 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 06:50:19 PM
If Medvedev can sustain or build up this year's summer hard court form then he will win a hard court slam next year for sure.

I think Djokovic might now struggle to reach 20, the next gen will all be taking confidence from Medvedev and they will have the belief that they are as good or better than them. The problem for Djokovic is that they are all at their best on hard courts, guys like Zverev, Tsitsipas, Rublev, Khachanov, FAA and Shapovalov all have a game made for hard courts and that's Djokovic's bread and butter.

I think the changing of guard is now going to come a lot sooner than people think and I think we'll have a next gen slam champion for sure next season.

I think Nadal will just do enough (injury permitting) to oust Federer in slam titles and rightfully take his place as the GOAT. He still has no peers on clay and I think if he gets the next two years of play without injuries or setbacks he will pick up one or two RG. I think last night might be his last non-clay slam though.

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Thats like saying Mick Lyons was a better footballer than Maurice Fitzgerald

There's no real question between Nadal and Federer. Nadal is miles ahead. The real debate is between Nadal and Djokovic.

Nadal has a superior head to head over Federer and Djokovic at slams.

Federer made hay when the competition was weak. He won 12 of his 20 slams between 2003-07. That was before Nadal and Djokovic established themselves, he was up against the likes of Hewitt, Roddick, Nalbandian, Davydenko and Safin for slams. All these guys were busted flushes in their mid 20s, they struggled to compete with the likes of Murray, Wawrinka, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Cilic, Feeder etc nevermind Nadal and Djokovic and this was Federer's main competition then.

Look at the early finals Federer had - Philippoussis, Safin, Roddick, Hewitt, a mid 30s Agassi, a teenage Nadal, Gonzalez.

It's a bit like when Gooch would rip it up in an All Ireland final against poor Cork and Mayo teams but struggle in the big tests.

Federer's record is padded by having a 5 year head start on Nadal and Djokovic. There's no way he would have got to 20 had he came through at the same time. The question for no 1 remains between Nadal and Djokovic but Federer is no 3.

Thats all fine and well but he's still a bull in a China shop

Clearly you don't watch him much.

A bull in a china shop would not dominate clay court tennis, you actually need to be able to craft and create shots rather than bludgeon the ball past your opponents and serve heavy like hard and grass courts require.

You clearly don't know finesse when you see it. Fed is obviously more technically gifted and naturally talented than either he just doesnt have the same physical attributes.

Finesse is aesthetic. He doesn't have the same physical attributes but neither does he have the same craft and problem solving ability that Nadal has.

Problem solving?? Didnt think Maths ability came into it but each to their own. When you are having a GOAT of all time debate it is entirely subjective.

Anyway Nadal has 12 Roland Garros and you could also say they are of lesser value as clay only takes up a portion of the season this gives more incentive and time for clay specialists to adapt to hard court and grass and the reverse for the hard/grass court specialists.
It also means the most talented players will always concentrate on the harder surfaces leading to overall less competitive clay competitions. So its safe to say Nadal has had a less competitive run at Roland Garros than Federer had in the early part of his career.
Also when Nadal was injured Fed and Djoikvic duly picked up their Roland Garros titles so its save to say they can play clay.

It could also be said that Fed in the early part of his career blew away the opposition by raising the bar to a different level, he brought shots that no one had ever seen before. Its safe to say he blew the competition out of the water and they couldnt adapt I would say because their games were too entrenched to adapt and prob too psychologically damaged fro the trimmings he gave them. The new crop coming behind them had a target and example to aim at (Fed) thus their playing style could be adapted as it was less embedded and they didn't have the mental baggage as being at the top and being knocked off their perch.
I dont buy for a minute that the competition was overly weak back then, fair enough there was no one else compared to Nadal and Djokivic, and while Roddick was limited he remained competitive for a long time, Hewitt was decent, and Safin certainly I would put alongside any of the 2nd tier of this era esp on hard courts, tho he did have a dubious temperament.

You can ream off all the stats you want but you can say any of them are skewed: Nadals advantage on clay, Fed to old, Nadal injured, Djokvic too young.....
At the end of the day I do like Feds style more, he has a very natural style always makes things look easy like anyone could do it, the single handed backhand at that level is a joy to behold. Nadal and Djokvic always look like they are playing at the limits of their skill level and their physical prowess is taking over.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on September 10, 2019, 11:10:05 PM
Maths ability? What are you blathering on about now?

Grass takes up less of the season than clay. Of course Federer and Djokovic can play on clay. They're exceptional all surface players. The point is that given how exceptional they are, it only serves to highlight how truly remarkable Nadal's 12 titles at RG are.

Federer's one handed backhand is mythologised by people who clearly don't watch much tennis. It is a pretty looking shot that is repeatedly targeted by all top players because its incredibly weak.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 07:56:53 AM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 10, 2019, 10:18:35 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 10, 2019, 12:06:53 AM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 11:24:58 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 11:18:45 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:49:23 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 10:37:41 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:22:41 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 06:50:19 PM
If Medvedev can sustain or build up this year's summer hard court form then he will win a hard court slam next year for sure.

I think Djokovic might now struggle to reach 20, the next gen will all be taking confidence from Medvedev and they will have the belief that they are as good or better than them. The problem for Djokovic is that they are all at their best on hard courts, guys like Zverev, Tsitsipas, Rublev, Khachanov, FAA and Shapovalov all have a game made for hard courts and that's Djokovic's bread and butter.

I think the changing of guard is now going to come a lot sooner than people think and I think we'll have a next gen slam champion for sure next season.

I think Nadal will just do enough (injury permitting) to oust Federer in slam titles and rightfully take his place as the GOAT. He still has no peers on clay and I think if he gets the next two years of play without injuries or setbacks he will pick up one or two RG. I think last night might be his last non-clay slam though.

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Thats like saying Mick Lyons was a better footballer than Maurice Fitzgerald

There's no real question between Nadal and Federer. Nadal is miles ahead. The real debate is between Nadal and Djokovic.

Nadal has a superior head to head over Federer and Djokovic at slams.

Federer made hay when the competition was weak. He won 12 of his 20 slams between 2003-07. That was before Nadal and Djokovic established themselves, he was up against the likes of Hewitt, Roddick, Nalbandian, Davydenko and Safin for slams. All these guys were busted flushes in their mid 20s, they struggled to compete with the likes of Murray, Wawrinka, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Cilic, Feeder etc nevermind Nadal and Djokovic and this was Federer's main competition then.

Look at the early finals Federer had - Philippoussis, Safin, Roddick, Hewitt, a mid 30s Agassi, a teenage Nadal, Gonzalez.

It's a bit like when Gooch would rip it up in an All Ireland final against poor Cork and Mayo teams but struggle in the big tests.

Federer's record is padded by having a 5 year head start on Nadal and Djokovic. There's no way he would have got to 20 had he came through at the same time. The question for no 1 remains between Nadal and Djokovic but Federer is no 3.

Thats all fine and well but he's still a bull in a China shop

Clearly you don't watch him much.

A bull in a china shop would not dominate clay court tennis, you actually need to be able to craft and create shots rather than bludgeon the ball past your opponents and serve heavy like hard and grass courts require.

You clearly don't know finesse when you see it. Fed is obviously more technically gifted and naturally talented than either he just doesnt have the same physical attributes.

Finesse is aesthetic. He doesn't have the same physical attributes but neither does he have the same craft and problem solving ability that Nadal has.

Problem solving?? Didnt think Maths ability came into it but each to their own. When you are having a GOAT of all time debate it is entirely subjective.

Anyway Nadal has 12 Roland Garros and you could also say they are of lesser value as clay only takes up a portion of the season this gives more incentive and time for clay specialists to adapt to hard court and grass and the reverse for the hard/grass court specialists.
It also means the most talented players will always concentrate on the harder surfaces leading to overall less competitive clay competitions. So its safe to say Nadal has had a less competitive run at Roland Garros than Federer had in the early part of his career.
Also when Nadal was injured Fed and Djoikvic duly picked up their Roland Garros titles so its save to say they can play clay.

It could also be said that Fed in the early part of his career blew away the opposition by raising the bar to a different level, he brought shots that no one had ever seen before. Its safe to say he blew the competition out of the water and they couldnt adapt I would say because their games were too entrenched to adapt and prob too psychologically damaged fro the trimmings he gave them. The new crop coming behind them had a target and example to aim at (Fed) thus their playing style could be adapted as it was less embedded and they didn't have the mental baggage as being at the top and being knocked off their perch.
I dont buy for a minute that the competition was overly weak back then, fair enough there was no one else compared to Nadal and Djokivic, and while Roddick was limited he remained competitive for a long time, Hewitt was decent, and Safin certainly I would put alongside any of the 2nd tier of this era esp on hard courts, tho he did have a dubious temperament.

You can ream off all the stats you want but you can say any of them are skewed: Nadals advantage on clay, Fed to old, Nadal injured, Djokvic too young.....
At the end of the day I do like Feds style more, he has a very natural style always makes things look easy like anyone could do it, the single handed backhand at that level is a joy to behold. Nadal and Djokvic always look like they are playing at the limits of their skill level and their physical prowess is taking over.

Problem solving was what got Nadal the slam on Sunday evening, he was in bother but he found a way out with an opponent who was playing the tennis of his life.

The stats aren't skewed, it's remarkable what Nadal has done because of everything, the injuries, the fact clay only takes up 1/4 of the slams, the era he came into. People like to use Nadal's dominance on clay as a stick to beat him with but it's even more remarkable if anything. There's twice as many hard slams as clay every year, the same amount of grass slams and Nadal has ended up on 19 despite being dismissed as a one dimensional clay player. He's untouchable on clay and over the years he has altered his game to not only be competitive outside clay but successful on it. He has 7 non-clay slam titles now, 4 at the US Open which is more than Djokovic has and one less than Federer. Djokovic and Federer have 2 clay court slams between them and only Djokovic has beaten Nadal at RG, once.

Greatness is not about style over substance, as gallsman said, Federer's backhand looks great aesthetically but is arguably his weakness as it it is not reliable enough, when opponents go after it they get success. Federer's biggest weapon is his serving, nothing too much in the aesthetics there. Nadal gets unfairly cast type as some sort of athletic freak who wouldn't know what to do with a racket. Nadal has probably the greatest forehand in the game (I don't think it's as lethal as it was pre 2014 though), he has by far the best overhead smash in the game, his drop shots are definitely up there (being a clay courter) and he has worked tirelessly on his backhand and slice over the years to make it a weapon. If you look across their games, there's not too many shots of Federer you'd choose over Nadal, the serve is the only one with notable gap between them.

I think Nadal is probably the one who is furthest off his peak years at the minute now out of the big 3. The injuries have taken a toll on his body and he has had to change the way he plays his game. The game with Medvedev was the only game he played over 4 hours this year, his longest one up until last night had been 3 hrs 15 minutes against Kyrgios at Wimbledon. He made 3 finals and a SF this year, he has moved away what he did in his peak because his knees won't sustain it. Where Nadal has evolved and adapted Federer and Djokovic haven't really had to as the scales are already tipped in their favour with the slam calendar.

There is no slam of lesser value, you might have bought a little too much into an anglo-centric viewpoint that Wimbledon is the be all and end all. They're all worth the same.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mouview on September 11, 2019, 08:55:30 AM
Fed's backhand was in superb working order v Nadal in SW19, watch back. Commentators remarked on how much it has improved.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on September 11, 2019, 09:52:14 AM
So the fact that Nadal has less slams than Fed, makes him a better player? As all the slams are equally as hard to win according to Angelo  ::)

So with that logic Fed is currently the best, Nadal and Novak could pass him but until then three can only be one winner.

Missed the men's final, caught the ladies final and Serena is getting to that point that she's not enjoying it anymore.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 10:49:42 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on September 11, 2019, 09:52:14 AM
So the fact that Nadal has less slams than Fed, makes him a better player? As all the slams are equally as hard to win according to Angelo  ::)

So with that logic Fed is currently the best, Nadal and Novak could pass him but until then three can only be one winner.

Missed the men's final, caught the ladies final and Serena is getting to that point that she's not enjoying it anymore.

It's not over yet, Nadal is now on 19, he has reached that number 3 years younger than Federer did, he has reached that number in 14 less slams than it took Federer. That's point one.

Point two. Nadal has had Federer and Djokovic throughout all his slams, Djokovic likewise. Federer hadn't, Federer won 12 slams from 03-07. At this point Nadal and Djokovic were teenagers for the most part, Nadal was primarily a clay court specialist while Djokovic didn't win his first slam until Australia 2008, aged 20. In the 03-07 era, Federer's main challengers were the likes of Roddick (1 year younger than Federer), Hewitt(1 year older), Safin (1 year older), Nalbandian(1 year younger), Davydenko (same age). All these guys were completely washed up by their mid 20s, they couldn't live with the Nadal Djokovic era despite being in the prime of the years. Sampras was retired before Federer won a slam. Look at some of Federer's final opponents in that time (03-07) - Phillippoussis, Gonzalez, Hewitt, Roddick, Bagdathis, Safin and an over the hill Agassi. Federer made hay in a weak era before either Nadal or Djokovic arrived (and the support cast of the likes of Murray, Wawrinka, Del Potro, Cilic, Berdych, Tsonga, Ferrer etc). These guys would all have won slams in the 03-07 era you would suspect, Federer's generation slid completely off the radar when they came in. Roddick survived the top 10 for a while but not long, the rest of them became forgotten men.

Federer made hay, 12 titles before Djokovic and Nadal arrived - 8 after. Since 2008 Nadal and Djokovic have won 16 slams each, Federer 8.

It's about context, Federer won an awful lot of easy slams when the mens game was at a fairly low ebb. Nadal and Djokovic have pretty much won the entirety of their slams when tennis was at an elite level. People go on about Nadal and clay but if Nadal wasn't about then Federer and Djokovic would have at least 4/5 French slams each, Nadal has eliminated them on 12 occasions combined.

Nadal/Djokovic/Federer are all courters, they just happen to perform best on different surfaces - Nadal (clay), Federer (grass), Djokovic (hard). Hard and grass play relatively similarly but clay is a different ball game, so when you look at it from a calendar perspective - 3/4 of the slams are tipped in the favour of Djokovic and Federer - which makes Nadal's numbers even more remarkable.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 10:51:55 AM
Quote from: mouview on September 11, 2019, 08:55:30 AM
Fed's backhand was in superb working order v Nadal in SW19, watch back. Commentators remarked on how much it has improved.

It was but it's often been what has let him down too.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Ed Ricketts on September 11, 2019, 11:18:03 AM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 10:49:42 AM
Federer made hay, 12 titles before Djokovic and Nadal arrived - 8 after. Since 2008 Nadal and Djokovic have won 16 slams each, Federer 8.

Perhaps there's a flip side to this, which is that Federer has done remarkably well to keep picking up slams into his late 30s against two all time greats who both have five years on him.

The age difference between Federer and the other two mean that it's impossible to make a fair comparison, as much as you'd like to try. In the end this debate is all about opinions, it can't won by stats.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on September 11, 2019, 11:38:41 AM
Also how easy has Nadal won those french titles? Seems there's no effort being made by the other tennis pros
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 11:47:06 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on September 11, 2019, 11:38:41 AM
Also how easy has Nadal won those french titles? Seems there's no effort being made by the other tennis pros

He has beaten Federer and Djokovic 12 times at RG. Guys like Isner, Raonic, Cilic and Anderson who have a game that is almost completely built around their serve will always struggle on clay. Beating Thiem on clay is also one of the toughest challenges about right now.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 11:49:07 AM
Quote from: Ed Ricketts on September 11, 2019, 11:18:03 AM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 10:49:42 AM
Federer made hay, 12 titles before Djokovic and Nadal arrived - 8 after. Since 2008 Nadal and Djokovic have won 16 slams each, Federer 8.

Perhaps there's a flip side to this, which is that Federer has done remarkably well to keep picking up slams into his late 30s against two all time greats who both have five years on him.

The age difference between Federer and the other two mean that it's impossible to make a fair comparison, as much as you'd like to try. In the end this debate is all about opinions, it can't won by stats.

Nadal already has more slams in his 30s than Federer. Djokovic has the same amount of slams in his 30s as Federer.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Ed Ricketts on September 11, 2019, 12:46:16 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 11:49:07 AM
Quote from: Ed Ricketts on September 11, 2019, 11:18:03 AM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 10:49:42 AM
Federer made hay, 12 titles before Djokovic and Nadal arrived - 8 after. Since 2008 Nadal and Djokovic have won 16 slams each, Federer 8.

Perhaps there's a flip side to this, which is that Federer has done remarkably well to keep picking up slams into his late 30s against two all time greats who both have five years on him.

The age difference between Federer and the other two mean that it's impossible to make a fair comparison, as much as you'd like to try. In the end this debate is all about opinions, it can't won by stats.

Nadal already has more slams in his 30s than Federer. Djokovic has the same amount of slams in his 30s as Federer.

And neither have had to deal with a couple of all time greats with five years on them while they picked up these titles in their 30s.

There just isn't enough concurrence for a fair statistical comparison, no matter how much you try to force it.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 01:54:06 PM
Quote from: Ed Ricketts on September 11, 2019, 12:46:16 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 11:49:07 AM
Quote from: Ed Ricketts on September 11, 2019, 11:18:03 AM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 10:49:42 AM
Federer made hay, 12 titles before Djokovic and Nadal arrived - 8 after. Since 2008 Nadal and Djokovic have won 16 slams each, Federer 8.

Perhaps there's a flip side to this, which is that Federer has done remarkably well to keep picking up slams into his late 30s against two all time greats who both have five years on him.

The age difference between Federer and the other two mean that it's impossible to make a fair comparison, as much as you'd like to try. In the end this debate is all about opinions, it can't won by stats.

Nadal already has more slams in his 30s than Federer. Djokovic has the same amount of slams in his 30s as Federer.

And neither have had to deal with a couple of all time greats with five years on them while they picked up these titles in their 30s.

There just isn't enough concurrence for a fair statistical comparison, no matter how much you try to force it.

You're right, he didn't. Those five years he had on them he was able to pick up 12 slams in against guys who fell off the radar as soon as Nadal and Djokovic started to come to the age of winning slams.

It's a contradictory argument.

You need to look at the statistics and the context around them, they don't make good reading for Federer. They don't make good reading for Roddick, Hewitt, Safin, Nalbandian, Davydenko or the rest of that era either.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: omaghjoe on September 11, 2019, 04:15:57 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 01:54:06 PM
Quote from: Ed Ricketts on September 11, 2019, 12:46:16 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 11:49:07 AM
Quote from: Ed Ricketts on September 11, 2019, 11:18:03 AM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 10:49:42 AM
Federer made hay, 12 titles before Djokovic and Nadal arrived - 8 after. Since 2008 Nadal and Djokovic have won 16 slams each, Federer 8.

Perhaps there's a flip side to this, which is that Federer has done remarkably well to keep picking up slams into his late 30s against two all time greats who both have five years on him.

The age difference between Federer and the other two mean that it's impossible to make a fair comparison, as much as you'd like to try. In the end this debate is all about opinions, it can't won by stats.

Nadal already has more slams in his 30s than Federer. Djokovic has the same amount of slams in his 30s as Federer.

And neither have had to deal with a couple of all time greats with five years on them while they picked up these titles in their 30s.

There just isn't enough concurrence for a fair statistical comparison, no matter how much you try to force it.

You're right, he didn't. Those five years he had on them he was able to pick up 12 slams in against guys who fell off the radar as soon as Nadal and Djokovic started to come to the age of winning slams.

It's a contradictory argument.

You need to look at the statistics and the context around them, they don't make good reading for Federer. They don't make good reading for Roddick, Hewitt, Safin, Nalbandian, Davydenko or the rest of that era either.

Except that Fed raised the bar and changed  Tennis to such a degree during those times that his competitors just could not compete and their games were too embedded to adapt.
The next generation had the advantage of using him as an example to aspire too.

Its like all those solo dummies Frank McGuigan used to sell, you could say he wouldnt have done that to defenders in the early 90s as they were better but he raised the bar for forwards so backs raised theirs.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: omaghjoe on September 11, 2019, 04:20:30 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 07:56:53 AM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 10, 2019, 10:18:35 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 10, 2019, 12:06:53 AM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 11:24:58 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 11:18:45 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:49:23 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 10:37:41 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:22:41 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 06:50:19 PM
If Medvedev can sustain or build up this year's summer hard court form then he will win a hard court slam next year for sure.

I think Djokovic might now struggle to reach 20, the next gen will all be taking confidence from Medvedev and they will have the belief that they are as good or better than them. The problem for Djokovic is that they are all at their best on hard courts, guys like Zverev, Tsitsipas, Rublev, Khachanov, FAA and Shapovalov all have a game made for hard courts and that's Djokovic's bread and butter.

I think the changing of guard is now going to come a lot sooner than people think and I think we'll have a next gen slam champion for sure next season.

I think Nadal will just do enough (injury permitting) to oust Federer in slam titles and rightfully take his place as the GOAT. He still has no peers on clay and I think if he gets the next two years of play without injuries or setbacks he will pick up one or two RG. I think last night might be his last non-clay slam though.

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Thats like saying Mick Lyons was a better footballer than Maurice Fitzgerald

There's no real question between Nadal and Federer. Nadal is miles ahead. The real debate is between Nadal and Djokovic.

Nadal has a superior head to head over Federer and Djokovic at slams.

Federer made hay when the competition was weak. He won 12 of his 20 slams between 2003-07. That was before Nadal and Djokovic established themselves, he was up against the likes of Hewitt, Roddick, Nalbandian, Davydenko and Safin for slams. All these guys were busted flushes in their mid 20s, they struggled to compete with the likes of Murray, Wawrinka, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Cilic, Feeder etc nevermind Nadal and Djokovic and this was Federer's main competition then.

Look at the early finals Federer had - Philippoussis, Safin, Roddick, Hewitt, a mid 30s Agassi, a teenage Nadal, Gonzalez.

It's a bit like when Gooch would rip it up in an All Ireland final against poor Cork and Mayo teams but struggle in the big tests.

Federer's record is padded by having a 5 year head start on Nadal and Djokovic. There's no way he would have got to 20 had he came through at the same time. The question for no 1 remains between Nadal and Djokovic but Federer is no 3.

Thats all fine and well but he's still a bull in a China shop

Clearly you don't watch him much.

A bull in a china shop would not dominate clay court tennis, you actually need to be able to craft and create shots rather than bludgeon the ball past your opponents and serve heavy like hard and grass courts require.

You clearly don't know finesse when you see it. Fed is obviously more technically gifted and naturally talented than either he just doesnt have the same physical attributes.

Finesse is aesthetic. He doesn't have the same physical attributes but neither does he have the same craft and problem solving ability that Nadal has.

Problem solving?? Didnt think Maths ability came into it but each to their own. When you are having a GOAT of all time debate it is entirely subjective.

Anyway Nadal has 12 Roland Garros and you could also say they are of lesser value as clay only takes up a portion of the season this gives more incentive and time for clay specialists to adapt to hard court and grass and the reverse for the hard/grass court specialists.
It also means the most talented players will always concentrate on the harder surfaces leading to overall less competitive clay competitions. So its safe to say Nadal has had a less competitive run at Roland Garros than Federer had in the early part of his career.
Also when Nadal was injured Fed and Djoikvic duly picked up their Roland Garros titles so its save to say they can play clay.

It could also be said that Fed in the early part of his career blew away the opposition by raising the bar to a different level, he brought shots that no one had ever seen before. Its safe to say he blew the competition out of the water and they couldnt adapt I would say because their games were too entrenched to adapt and prob too psychologically damaged fro the trimmings he gave them. The new crop coming behind them had a target and example to aim at (Fed) thus their playing style could be adapted as it was less embedded and they didn't have the mental baggage as being at the top and being knocked off their perch.
I dont buy for a minute that the competition was overly weak back then, fair enough there was no one else compared to Nadal and Djokivic, and while Roddick was limited he remained competitive for a long time, Hewitt was decent, and Safin certainly I would put alongside any of the 2nd tier of this era esp on hard courts, tho he did have a dubious temperament.

You can ream off all the stats you want but you can say any of them are skewed: Nadals advantage on clay, Fed to old, Nadal injured, Djokvic too young.....
At the end of the day I do like Feds style more, he has a very natural style always makes things look easy like anyone could do it, the single handed backhand at that level is a joy to behold. Nadal and Djokvic always look like they are playing at the limits of their skill level and their physical prowess is taking over.

Problem solving was what got Nadal the slam on Sunday evening, he was in bother but he found a way out with an opponent who was playing the tennis of his life.

The stats aren't skewed, it's remarkable what Nadal has done because of everything, the injuries, the fact clay only takes up 1/4 of the slams, the era he came into. People like to use Nadal's dominance on clay as a stick to beat him with but it's even more remarkable if anything. There's twice as many hard slams as clay every year, the same amount of grass slams and Nadal has ended up on 19 despite being dismissed as a one dimensional clay player. He's untouchable on clay and over the years he has altered his game to not only be competitive outside clay but successful on it. He has 7 non-clay slam titles now, 4 at the US Open which is more than Djokovic has and one less than Federer. Djokovic and Federer have 2 clay court slams between them and only Djokovic has beaten Nadal at RG, once.

Greatness is not about style over substance, as gallsman said, Federer's backhand looks great aesthetically but is arguably his weakness as it it is not reliable enough, when opponents go after it they get success. Federer's biggest weapon is his serving, nothing too much in the aesthetics there. Nadal gets unfairly cast type as some sort of athletic freak who wouldn't know what to do with a racket. Nadal has probably the greatest forehand in the game (I don't think it's as lethal as it was pre 2014 though), he has by far the best overhead smash in the game, his drop shots are definitely up there (being a clay courter) and he has worked tirelessly on his backhand and slice over the years to make it a weapon. If you look across their games, there's not too many shots of Federer you'd choose over Nadal, the serve is the only one with notable gap between them.

I think Nadal is probably the one who is furthest off his peak years at the minute now out of the big 3. The injuries have taken a toll on his body and he has had to change the way he plays his game. The game with Medvedev was the only game he played over 4 hours this year, his longest one up until last night had been 3 hrs 15 minutes against Kyrgios at Wimbledon. He made 3 finals and a SF this year, he has moved away what he did in his peak because his knees won't sustain it. Where Nadal has evolved and adapted Federer and Djokovic haven't really had to as the scales are already tipped in their favour with the slam calendar.

There is no slam of lesser value, you might have bought a little too much into an anglo-centric viewpoint that Wimbledon is the be all and end all. They're all worth the same.

If no slam is of lesser value then when are you trying to devalue Feds to make your point? Nadal just won a Grand slam without playing Fed or Djokivic surely according to your criteria youd have this as an undervalued one?

He wins the Roland Garros and is so dominant there because it is his preferred surface and the other top players dont like it and dont have the same time on clay to adjust their game to make themselves competitive. There is no question that it is less competitive that the other surfaces

Fed backhand a weakness :D :D. Opponents dont go after it.... they just dont want his forehand. By the way I would say the strongest part of his game is his footwork/balance. His biggest weakness is probably his speed around the court.

If Nadal is further off his peak years because of the strain on his body it is demonstration that he is using more physical effort to win.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: trueblue1234 on September 11, 2019, 04:29:37 PM
Guys I don't think either of you are ever going to move from your opinions so it's going to be a circular argument. Prob done to death now. Lets call it Deuce.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 04:31:38 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 11, 2019, 04:15:57 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 01:54:06 PM
Quote from: Ed Ricketts on September 11, 2019, 12:46:16 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 11:49:07 AM
Quote from: Ed Ricketts on September 11, 2019, 11:18:03 AM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 10:49:42 AM
Federer made hay, 12 titles before Djokovic and Nadal arrived - 8 after. Since 2008 Nadal and Djokovic have won 16 slams each, Federer 8.

Perhaps there's a flip side to this, which is that Federer has done remarkably well to keep picking up slams into his late 30s against two all time greats who both have five years on him.

The age difference between Federer and the other two mean that it's impossible to make a fair comparison, as much as you'd like to try. In the end this debate is all about opinions, it can't won by stats.

Nadal already has more slams in his 30s than Federer. Djokovic has the same amount of slams in his 30s as Federer.

And neither have had to deal with a couple of all time greats with five years on them while they picked up these titles in their 30s.

There just isn't enough concurrence for a fair statistical comparison, no matter how much you try to force it.

You're right, he didn't. Those five years he had on them he was able to pick up 12 slams in against guys who fell off the radar as soon as Nadal and Djokovic started to come to the age of winning slams.

It's a contradictory argument.

You need to look at the statistics and the context around them, they don't make good reading for Federer. They don't make good reading for Roddick, Hewitt, Safin, Nalbandian, Davydenko or the rest of that era either.

Except that Fed raised the bar and changed  Tennis to such a degree during those times that his competitors just could not compete and their games were too embedded to adapt.
The next generation had the advantage of using him as an example to aspire too.

Its like all those solo dummies Frank McGuigan used to sell, you could say he wouldnt have done that to defenders in the early 90s as they were better but he raised the bar for forwards so backs raised theirs.

That's fine but the Federer ended up struggling badly against Nadal and Djokovic once they came on the scene

Nadal has actually won as many non-clay court slams as Federer had since that dominant spell he had between 03-07 and Djokovic has won more non-clay slams in that time. Djokovic has won 15 slams between hard and grass courts from 08-19, Nadal and Federer are on 8 each from 08-19 between grass and hard courts.

You can make the point that Federer raised the bar but Nadal and Djokovic bettered him.

I wouldn't be so sure Nadal and Djokovic will go on and dominate the slams next year and the year after. I think the end of them will come suddenly. Nadal knows it, he was as emotional as I've ever seen him after winning on Sunday, he knew it represented one of his last chances. He'll be hoping he'll add another couple of slams in the next two years but I don't see him getting much more than that.

It's going to be very tight at the top at the end of it. People think Djokovic is going to dominate the next few years, I wouldn't be sure of that at all. He's 32 now, he had a shoulder injury this year. He went 8 slams without a victory after he captured the French Open in 2016 and ended up needing surgery on a troublesome elbow. Medvedev has arrived, I expect Zverev, Tsistispas, FAA, Rublev, Shapovalov and those guys to now start getting their act together, Medvedev has shown them the way. The slams for the big 3 will get tougher and tougher from here on in.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 04:45:06 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 11, 2019, 04:20:30 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 07:56:53 AM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 10, 2019, 10:18:35 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 10, 2019, 12:06:53 AM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 11:24:58 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 11:18:45 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:49:23 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 10:37:41 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:22:41 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 06:50:19 PM
If Medvedev can sustain or build up this year's summer hard court form then he will win a hard court slam next year for sure.

I think Djokovic might now struggle to reach 20, the next gen will all be taking confidence from Medvedev and they will have the belief that they are as good or better than them. The problem for Djokovic is that they are all at their best on hard courts, guys like Zverev, Tsitsipas, Rublev, Khachanov, FAA and Shapovalov all have a game made for hard courts and that's Djokovic's bread and butter.

I think the changing of guard is now going to come a lot sooner than people think and I think we'll have a next gen slam champion for sure next season.

I think Nadal will just do enough (injury permitting) to oust Federer in slam titles and rightfully take his place as the GOAT. He still has no peers on clay and I think if he gets the next two years of play without injuries or setbacks he will pick up one or two RG. I think last night might be his last non-clay slam though.

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Thats like saying Mick Lyons was a better footballer than Maurice Fitzgerald

There's no real question between Nadal and Federer. Nadal is miles ahead. The real debate is between Nadal and Djokovic.

Nadal has a superior head to head over Federer and Djokovic at slams.

Federer made hay when the competition was weak. He won 12 of his 20 slams between 2003-07. That was before Nadal and Djokovic established themselves, he was up against the likes of Hewitt, Roddick, Nalbandian, Davydenko and Safin for slams. All these guys were busted flushes in their mid 20s, they struggled to compete with the likes of Murray, Wawrinka, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Cilic, Feeder etc nevermind Nadal and Djokovic and this was Federer's main competition then.

Look at the early finals Federer had - Philippoussis, Safin, Roddick, Hewitt, a mid 30s Agassi, a teenage Nadal, Gonzalez.

It's a bit like when Gooch would rip it up in an All Ireland final against poor Cork and Mayo teams but struggle in the big tests.

Federer's record is padded by having a 5 year head start on Nadal and Djokovic. There's no way he would have got to 20 had he came through at the same time. The question for no 1 remains between Nadal and Djokovic but Federer is no 3.

Thats all fine and well but he's still a bull in a China shop

Clearly you don't watch him much.

A bull in a china shop would not dominate clay court tennis, you actually need to be able to craft and create shots rather than bludgeon the ball past your opponents and serve heavy like hard and grass courts require.

You clearly don't know finesse when you see it. Fed is obviously more technically gifted and naturally talented than either he just doesnt have the same physical attributes.

Finesse is aesthetic. He doesn't have the same physical attributes but neither does he have the same craft and problem solving ability that Nadal has.

Problem solving?? Didnt think Maths ability came into it but each to their own. When you are having a GOAT of all time debate it is entirely subjective.

Anyway Nadal has 12 Roland Garros and you could also say they are of lesser value as clay only takes up a portion of the season this gives more incentive and time for clay specialists to adapt to hard court and grass and the reverse for the hard/grass court specialists.
It also means the most talented players will always concentrate on the harder surfaces leading to overall less competitive clay competitions. So its safe to say Nadal has had a less competitive run at Roland Garros than Federer had in the early part of his career.
Also when Nadal was injured Fed and Djoikvic duly picked up their Roland Garros titles so its save to say they can play clay.

It could also be said that Fed in the early part of his career blew away the opposition by raising the bar to a different level, he brought shots that no one had ever seen before. Its safe to say he blew the competition out of the water and they couldnt adapt I would say because their games were too entrenched to adapt and prob too psychologically damaged fro the trimmings he gave them. The new crop coming behind them had a target and example to aim at (Fed) thus their playing style could be adapted as it was less embedded and they didn't have the mental baggage as being at the top and being knocked off their perch.
I dont buy for a minute that the competition was overly weak back then, fair enough there was no one else compared to Nadal and Djokivic, and while Roddick was limited he remained competitive for a long time, Hewitt was decent, and Safin certainly I would put alongside any of the 2nd tier of this era esp on hard courts, tho he did have a dubious temperament.

You can ream off all the stats you want but you can say any of them are skewed: Nadals advantage on clay, Fed to old, Nadal injured, Djokvic too young.....
At the end of the day I do like Feds style more, he has a very natural style always makes things look easy like anyone could do it, the single handed backhand at that level is a joy to behold. Nadal and Djokvic always look like they are playing at the limits of their skill level and their physical prowess is taking over.

Problem solving was what got Nadal the slam on Sunday evening, he was in bother but he found a way out with an opponent who was playing the tennis of his life.

The stats aren't skewed, it's remarkable what Nadal has done because of everything, the injuries, the fact clay only takes up 1/4 of the slams, the era he came into. People like to use Nadal's dominance on clay as a stick to beat him with but it's even more remarkable if anything. There's twice as many hard slams as clay every year, the same amount of grass slams and Nadal has ended up on 19 despite being dismissed as a one dimensional clay player. He's untouchable on clay and over the years he has altered his game to not only be competitive outside clay but successful on it. He has 7 non-clay slam titles now, 4 at the US Open which is more than Djokovic has and one less than Federer. Djokovic and Federer have 2 clay court slams between them and only Djokovic has beaten Nadal at RG, once.

Greatness is not about style over substance, as gallsman said, Federer's backhand looks great aesthetically but is arguably his weakness as it it is not reliable enough, when opponents go after it they get success. Federer's biggest weapon is his serving, nothing too much in the aesthetics there. Nadal gets unfairly cast type as some sort of athletic freak who wouldn't know what to do with a racket. Nadal has probably the greatest forehand in the game (I don't think it's as lethal as it was pre 2014 though), he has by far the best overhead smash in the game, his drop shots are definitely up there (being a clay courter) and he has worked tirelessly on his backhand and slice over the years to make it a weapon. If you look across their games, there's not too many shots of Federer you'd choose over Nadal, the serve is the only one with notable gap between them.

I think Nadal is probably the one who is furthest off his peak years at the minute now out of the big 3. The injuries have taken a toll on his body and he has had to change the way he plays his game. The game with Medvedev was the only game he played over 4 hours this year, his longest one up until last night had been 3 hrs 15 minutes against Kyrgios at Wimbledon. He made 3 finals and a SF this year, he has moved away what he did in his peak because his knees won't sustain it. Where Nadal has evolved and adapted Federer and Djokovic haven't really had to as the scales are already tipped in their favour with the slam calendar.

There is no slam of lesser value, you might have bought a little too much into an anglo-centric viewpoint that Wimbledon is the be all and end all. They're all worth the same.

If no slam is of lesser value then when are you trying to devalue Feds to make your point? Nadal just won a Grand slam without playing Fed or Djokivic surely according to your criteria youd have this as an undervalued one?

He wins the Roland Garros and is so dominant there because it is his preferred surface and the other top players dont like it and dont have the same time on clay to adjust their game to make themselves competitive. There is no question that it is less competitive that the other surfaces

Fed backhand a weakness :D :D. Opponents dont go after it.... they just dont want his forehand. By the way I would say the strongest part of his game is his footwork/balance. His biggest weakness is probably his speed around the court.

If Nadal is further off his peak years because of the strain on his body it is demonstration that he is using more physical effort to win.

Context, Nadal, Federer and Djokovic are all courters. It's not as if Federer and Djokovic are like Pete Sampras, in that they are one dimensional players, unlike Sampras they have a lot more to their game than a big serve and only for the were around the same time as the greatest clay courter to ever play the game by a country mile they'd have 4 or 5 French Opens each. So every slam is worth the same US, Australian, French and Wimbledon.

The currency of the open in terms of competition is completely different. If you can't see that Federer's main rivals in that 03-07 era were powderpuff then you are an ostrich.

Roddick
Hewitt
Nalbandian
Safin
Davydenko

All washed up by their mid 20s.

Phillippoussis, Gonzalez, Bagdathis and an over the hill Agassi in slam finals at that time?

It's about context and there's no way you can say those slams are anywhere near as impressive as what Djokovic and Nadal accomplished in the subsequent years.

12 slams in 5 years (11 of those in a 4 year period) pre Nadal and Djokovic breakout against 8 in 12 years during the post breakout of Nadal and Djokovic. Unfortunately there are the kind of stats which the Fedheads try to run away from but they can't, all the smokescreens in the world won't diminish them which is why they usually have to lower the tone with completely unsubstantiated allegations against Nadal and Djokovic.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: omaghjoe on September 11, 2019, 05:41:05 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 04:45:06 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 11, 2019, 04:20:30 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 07:56:53 AM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 10, 2019, 10:18:35 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 10, 2019, 12:06:53 AM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 11:24:58 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 11:18:45 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:49:23 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 10:37:41 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:22:41 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 06:50:19 PM
If Medvedev can sustain or build up this year's summer hard court form then he will win a hard court slam next year for sure.

I think Djokovic might now struggle to reach 20, the next gen will all be taking confidence from Medvedev and they will have the belief that they are as good or better than them. The problem for Djokovic is that they are all at their best on hard courts, guys like Zverev, Tsitsipas, Rublev, Khachanov, FAA and Shapovalov all have a game made for hard courts and that's Djokovic's bread and butter.

I think the changing of guard is now going to come a lot sooner than people think and I think we'll have a next gen slam champion for sure next season.

I think Nadal will just do enough (injury permitting) to oust Federer in slam titles and rightfully take his place as the GOAT. He still has no peers on clay and I think if he gets the next two years of play without injuries or setbacks he will pick up one or two RG. I think last night might be his last non-clay slam though.

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Thats like saying Mick Lyons was a better footballer than Maurice Fitzgerald

There's no real question between Nadal and Federer. Nadal is miles ahead. The real debate is between Nadal and Djokovic.

Nadal has a superior head to head over Federer and Djokovic at slams.

Federer made hay when the competition was weak. He won 12 of his 20 slams between 2003-07. That was before Nadal and Djokovic established themselves, he was up against the likes of Hewitt, Roddick, Nalbandian, Davydenko and Safin for slams. All these guys were busted flushes in their mid 20s, they struggled to compete with the likes of Murray, Wawrinka, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Cilic, Feeder etc nevermind Nadal and Djokovic and this was Federer's main competition then.

Look at the early finals Federer had - Philippoussis, Safin, Roddick, Hewitt, a mid 30s Agassi, a teenage Nadal, Gonzalez.

It's a bit like when Gooch would rip it up in an All Ireland final against poor Cork and Mayo teams but struggle in the big tests.

Federer's record is padded by having a 5 year head start on Nadal and Djokovic. There's no way he would have got to 20 had he came through at the same time. The question for no 1 remains between Nadal and Djokovic but Federer is no 3.

Thats all fine and well but he's still a bull in a China shop

Clearly you don't watch him much.

A bull in a china shop would not dominate clay court tennis, you actually need to be able to craft and create shots rather than bludgeon the ball past your opponents and serve heavy like hard and grass courts require.

You clearly don't know finesse when you see it. Fed is obviously more technically gifted and naturally talented than either he just doesnt have the same physical attributes.

Finesse is aesthetic. He doesn't have the same physical attributes but neither does he have the same craft and problem solving ability that Nadal has.

Problem solving?? Didnt think Maths ability came into it but each to their own. When you are having a GOAT of all time debate it is entirely subjective.

Anyway Nadal has 12 Roland Garros and you could also say they are of lesser value as clay only takes up a portion of the season this gives more incentive and time for clay specialists to adapt to hard court and grass and the reverse for the hard/grass court specialists.
It also means the most talented players will always concentrate on the harder surfaces leading to overall less competitive clay competitions. So its safe to say Nadal has had a less competitive run at Roland Garros than Federer had in the early part of his career.
Also when Nadal was injured Fed and Djoikvic duly picked up their Roland Garros titles so its save to say they can play clay.

It could also be said that Fed in the early part of his career blew away the opposition by raising the bar to a different level, he brought shots that no one had ever seen before. Its safe to say he blew the competition out of the water and they couldnt adapt I would say because their games were too entrenched to adapt and prob too psychologically damaged fro the trimmings he gave them. The new crop coming behind them had a target and example to aim at (Fed) thus their playing style could be adapted as it was less embedded and they didn't have the mental baggage as being at the top and being knocked off their perch.
I dont buy for a minute that the competition was overly weak back then, fair enough there was no one else compared to Nadal and Djokivic, and while Roddick was limited he remained competitive for a long time, Hewitt was decent, and Safin certainly I would put alongside any of the 2nd tier of this era esp on hard courts, tho he did have a dubious temperament.

You can ream off all the stats you want but you can say any of them are skewed: Nadals advantage on clay, Fed to old, Nadal injured, Djokvic too young.....
At the end of the day I do like Feds style more, he has a very natural style always makes things look easy like anyone could do it, the single handed backhand at that level is a joy to behold. Nadal and Djokvic always look like they are playing at the limits of their skill level and their physical prowess is taking over.

Problem solving was what got Nadal the slam on Sunday evening, he was in bother but he found a way out with an opponent who was playing the tennis of his life.

The stats aren't skewed, it's remarkable what Nadal has done because of everything, the injuries, the fact clay only takes up 1/4 of the slams, the era he came into. People like to use Nadal's dominance on clay as a stick to beat him with but it's even more remarkable if anything. There's twice as many hard slams as clay every year, the same amount of grass slams and Nadal has ended up on 19 despite being dismissed as a one dimensional clay player. He's untouchable on clay and over the years he has altered his game to not only be competitive outside clay but successful on it. He has 7 non-clay slam titles now, 4 at the US Open which is more than Djokovic has and one less than Federer. Djokovic and Federer have 2 clay court slams between them and only Djokovic has beaten Nadal at RG, once.

Greatness is not about style over substance, as gallsman said, Federer's backhand looks great aesthetically but is arguably his weakness as it it is not reliable enough, when opponents go after it they get success. Federer's biggest weapon is his serving, nothing too much in the aesthetics there. Nadal gets unfairly cast type as some sort of athletic freak who wouldn't know what to do with a racket. Nadal has probably the greatest forehand in the game (I don't think it's as lethal as it was pre 2014 though), he has by far the best overhead smash in the game, his drop shots are definitely up there (being a clay courter) and he has worked tirelessly on his backhand and slice over the years to make it a weapon. If you look across their games, there's not too many shots of Federer you'd choose over Nadal, the serve is the only one with notable gap between them.

I think Nadal is probably the one who is furthest off his peak years at the minute now out of the big 3. The injuries have taken a toll on his body and he has had to change the way he plays his game. The game with Medvedev was the only game he played over 4 hours this year, his longest one up until last night had been 3 hrs 15 minutes against Kyrgios at Wimbledon. He made 3 finals and a SF this year, he has moved away what he did in his peak because his knees won't sustain it. Where Nadal has evolved and adapted Federer and Djokovic haven't really had to as the scales are already tipped in their favour with the slam calendar.

There is no slam of lesser value, you might have bought a little too much into an anglo-centric viewpoint that Wimbledon is the be all and end all. They're all worth the same.

If no slam is of lesser value then when are you trying to devalue Feds to make your point? Nadal just won a Grand slam without playing Fed or Djokivic surely according to your criteria youd have this as an undervalued one?

He wins the Roland Garros and is so dominant there because it is his preferred surface and the other top players dont like it and dont have the same time on clay to adjust their game to make themselves competitive. There is no question that it is less competitive that the other surfaces

Fed backhand a weakness :D :D. Opponents dont go after it.... they just dont want his forehand. By the way I would say the strongest part of his game is his footwork/balance. His biggest weakness is probably his speed around the court.

If Nadal is further off his peak years because of the strain on his body it is demonstration that he is using more physical effort to win.

Context, Nadal, Federer and Djokovic are all courters. It's not as if Federer and Djokovic are like Pete Sampras, in that they are one dimensional players, unlike Sampras they have a lot more to their game than a big serve and only for the were around the same time as the greatest clay courter to ever play the game by a country mile they'd have 4 or 5 French Opens each. So every slam is worth the same US, Australian, French and Wimbledon.

The currency of the open in terms of competition is completely different. If you can't see that Federer's main rivals in that 03-07 era were powderpuff then you are an ostrich.

Roddick
Hewitt
Nalbandian
Safin
Davydenko

All washed up by their mid 20s.

Phillippoussis, Gonzalez, Bagdathis and an over the hill Agassi in slam finals at that time?

It's about context and there's no way you can say those slams are anywhere near as impressive as what Djokovic and Nadal accomplished in the subsequent years.

12 slams in 5 years (11 of those in a 4 year period) pre Nadal and Djokovic breakout against 8 in 12 years during the post breakout of Nadal and Djokovic. Unfortunately there are the kind of stats which the Fedheads try to run away from but they can't, all the smokescreens in the world won't diminish them which is why they usually have to lower the tone with completely unsubstantiated allegations against Nadal and Djokovic.

Speaking of Ostrichs Fed rose the bar to a new level in those years, the current crop had the opportunity to rise to meet it, his peers not so much. Nadal and Djokovic are exceptions obviously but your not gonna tell me that outside of the top 3 the top players were ALL just naturally better than the crop from 5 years previously. There was a reason they performed better and that reason was Fed had raised the bar and the next crop had more of an opportunity to hit that his peers did.

Grass and Hard court players have always struggled on clay sure Fed often flopped there in his early years. Clay courters have more of an opportunity and incentive to adapt their game. Whats more the nature of the methodical nature of the clay game means its very difficult for a lesser opponent to get one over a better player.  You only have to look at the results to say that Nadal has had nothing but an easy time there, and how many does he have then? 12 and counting is it?

Anyway are certain Slams worth more than others or not? Your saying they are and they arent, you cant have it both ways

Your own criteria for GOAT is letting your argument down Im afraid. Its Fairly irrelevant to my own opinion for GOAT but Ive a feeling that is the same for you to, you prob just like Nadal's big muscles and funky head bands ;) thats ok Im cool with that.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 06:14:44 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 11, 2019, 05:41:05 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 04:45:06 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 11, 2019, 04:20:30 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 07:56:53 AM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 10, 2019, 10:18:35 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 10, 2019, 12:06:53 AM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 11:24:58 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 11:18:45 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:49:23 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 10:37:41 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:22:41 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 06:50:19 PM
If Medvedev can sustain or build up this year's summer hard court form then he will win a hard court slam next year for sure.

I think Djokovic might now struggle to reach 20, the next gen will all be taking confidence from Medvedev and they will have the belief that they are as good or better than them. The problem for Djokovic is that they are all at their best on hard courts, guys like Zverev, Tsitsipas, Rublev, Khachanov, FAA and Shapovalov all have a game made for hard courts and that's Djokovic's bread and butter.

I think the changing of guard is now going to come a lot sooner than people think and I think we'll have a next gen slam champion for sure next season.

I think Nadal will just do enough (injury permitting) to oust Federer in slam titles and rightfully take his place as the GOAT. He still has no peers on clay and I think if he gets the next two years of play without injuries or setbacks he will pick up one or two RG. I think last night might be his last non-clay slam though.

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Thats like saying Mick Lyons was a better footballer than Maurice Fitzgerald

There's no real question between Nadal and Federer. Nadal is miles ahead. The real debate is between Nadal and Djokovic.

Nadal has a superior head to head over Federer and Djokovic at slams.

Federer made hay when the competition was weak. He won 12 of his 20 slams between 2003-07. That was before Nadal and Djokovic established themselves, he was up against the likes of Hewitt, Roddick, Nalbandian, Davydenko and Safin for slams. All these guys were busted flushes in their mid 20s, they struggled to compete with the likes of Murray, Wawrinka, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Cilic, Feeder etc nevermind Nadal and Djokovic and this was Federer's main competition then.

Look at the early finals Federer had - Philippoussis, Safin, Roddick, Hewitt, a mid 30s Agassi, a teenage Nadal, Gonzalez.

It's a bit like when Gooch would rip it up in an All Ireland final against poor Cork and Mayo teams but struggle in the big tests.

Federer's record is padded by having a 5 year head start on Nadal and Djokovic. There's no way he would have got to 20 had he came through at the same time. The question for no 1 remains between Nadal and Djokovic but Federer is no 3.

Thats all fine and well but he's still a bull in a China shop

Clearly you don't watch him much.

A bull in a china shop would not dominate clay court tennis, you actually need to be able to craft and create shots rather than bludgeon the ball past your opponents and serve heavy like hard and grass courts require.

You clearly don't know finesse when you see it. Fed is obviously more technically gifted and naturally talented than either he just doesnt have the same physical attributes.

Finesse is aesthetic. He doesn't have the same physical attributes but neither does he have the same craft and problem solving ability that Nadal has.

Problem solving?? Didnt think Maths ability came into it but each to their own. When you are having a GOAT of all time debate it is entirely subjective.

Anyway Nadal has 12 Roland Garros and you could also say they are of lesser value as clay only takes up a portion of the season this gives more incentive and time for clay specialists to adapt to hard court and grass and the reverse for the hard/grass court specialists.
It also means the most talented players will always concentrate on the harder surfaces leading to overall less competitive clay competitions. So its safe to say Nadal has had a less competitive run at Roland Garros than Federer had in the early part of his career.
Also when Nadal was injured Fed and Djoikvic duly picked up their Roland Garros titles so its save to say they can play clay.

It could also be said that Fed in the early part of his career blew away the opposition by raising the bar to a different level, he brought shots that no one had ever seen before. Its safe to say he blew the competition out of the water and they couldnt adapt I would say because their games were too entrenched to adapt and prob too psychologically damaged fro the trimmings he gave them. The new crop coming behind them had a target and example to aim at (Fed) thus their playing style could be adapted as it was less embedded and they didn't have the mental baggage as being at the top and being knocked off their perch.
I dont buy for a minute that the competition was overly weak back then, fair enough there was no one else compared to Nadal and Djokivic, and while Roddick was limited he remained competitive for a long time, Hewitt was decent, and Safin certainly I would put alongside any of the 2nd tier of this era esp on hard courts, tho he did have a dubious temperament.

You can ream off all the stats you want but you can say any of them are skewed: Nadals advantage on clay, Fed to old, Nadal injured, Djokvic too young.....
At the end of the day I do like Feds style more, he has a very natural style always makes things look easy like anyone could do it, the single handed backhand at that level is a joy to behold. Nadal and Djokvic always look like they are playing at the limits of their skill level and their physical prowess is taking over.

Problem solving was what got Nadal the slam on Sunday evening, he was in bother but he found a way out with an opponent who was playing the tennis of his life.

The stats aren't skewed, it's remarkable what Nadal has done because of everything, the injuries, the fact clay only takes up 1/4 of the slams, the era he came into. People like to use Nadal's dominance on clay as a stick to beat him with but it's even more remarkable if anything. There's twice as many hard slams as clay every year, the same amount of grass slams and Nadal has ended up on 19 despite being dismissed as a one dimensional clay player. He's untouchable on clay and over the years he has altered his game to not only be competitive outside clay but successful on it. He has 7 non-clay slam titles now, 4 at the US Open which is more than Djokovic has and one less than Federer. Djokovic and Federer have 2 clay court slams between them and only Djokovic has beaten Nadal at RG, once.

Greatness is not about style over substance, as gallsman said, Federer's backhand looks great aesthetically but is arguably his weakness as it it is not reliable enough, when opponents go after it they get success. Federer's biggest weapon is his serving, nothing too much in the aesthetics there. Nadal gets unfairly cast type as some sort of athletic freak who wouldn't know what to do with a racket. Nadal has probably the greatest forehand in the game (I don't think it's as lethal as it was pre 2014 though), he has by far the best overhead smash in the game, his drop shots are definitely up there (being a clay courter) and he has worked tirelessly on his backhand and slice over the years to make it a weapon. If you look across their games, there's not too many shots of Federer you'd choose over Nadal, the serve is the only one with notable gap between them.

I think Nadal is probably the one who is furthest off his peak years at the minute now out of the big 3. The injuries have taken a toll on his body and he has had to change the way he plays his game. The game with Medvedev was the only game he played over 4 hours this year, his longest one up until last night had been 3 hrs 15 minutes against Kyrgios at Wimbledon. He made 3 finals and a SF this year, he has moved away what he did in his peak because his knees won't sustain it. Where Nadal has evolved and adapted Federer and Djokovic haven't really had to as the scales are already tipped in their favour with the slam calendar.

There is no slam of lesser value, you might have bought a little too much into an anglo-centric viewpoint that Wimbledon is the be all and end all. They're all worth the same.

If no slam is of lesser value then when are you trying to devalue Feds to make your point? Nadal just won a Grand slam without playing Fed or Djokivic surely according to your criteria youd have this as an undervalued one?

He wins the Roland Garros and is so dominant there because it is his preferred surface and the other top players dont like it and dont have the same time on clay to adjust their game to make themselves competitive. There is no question that it is less competitive that the other surfaces

Fed backhand a weakness :D :D. Opponents dont go after it.... they just dont want his forehand. By the way I would say the strongest part of his game is his footwork/balance. His biggest weakness is probably his speed around the court.

If Nadal is further off his peak years because of the strain on his body it is demonstration that he is using more physical effort to win.

Context, Nadal, Federer and Djokovic are all courters. It's not as if Federer and Djokovic are like Pete Sampras, in that they are one dimensional players, unlike Sampras they have a lot more to their game than a big serve and only for the were around the same time as the greatest clay courter to ever play the game by a country mile they'd have 4 or 5 French Opens each. So every slam is worth the same US, Australian, French and Wimbledon.

The currency of the open in terms of competition is completely different. If you can't see that Federer's main rivals in that 03-07 era were powderpuff then you are an ostrich.

Roddick
Hewitt
Nalbandian
Safin
Davydenko

All washed up by their mid 20s.

Phillippoussis, Gonzalez, Bagdathis and an over the hill Agassi in slam finals at that time?

It's about context and there's no way you can say those slams are anywhere near as impressive as what Djokovic and Nadal accomplished in the subsequent years.

12 slams in 5 years (11 of those in a 4 year period) pre Nadal and Djokovic breakout against 8 in 12 years during the post breakout of Nadal and Djokovic. Unfortunately there are the kind of stats which the Fedheads try to run away from but they can't, all the smokescreens in the world won't diminish them which is why they usually have to lower the tone with completely unsubstantiated allegations against Nadal and Djokovic.

Speaking of Ostrichs Fed rose the bar to a new level in those years, the current crop had the opportunity to rise to meet it, his peers not so much. Nadal and Djokovic are exceptions obviously but your not gonna tell me that outside of the top 3 the top players were ALL just naturally better than the crop from 5 years previously. There was a reason they performed better and that reason was Fed had raised the bar and the next crop had more of an opportunity to hit that his peers did.

Grass and Hard court players have always struggled on clay sure Fed often flopped there in his early years. Clay courters have more of an opportunity and incentive to adapt their game. Whats more the nature of the methodical nature of the clay game means its very difficult for a lesser opponent to get one over a better player.  You only have to look at the results to say that Nadal has had nothing but an easy time there, and how many does he have then? 12 and counting is it?

Anyway are certain Slams worth more than others or not? Your saying they are and they arent, you cant have it both ways

Your own criteria for GOAT is letting your argument down Im afraid. Its Fairly irrelevant to my own opinion for GOAT but Ive a feeling that is the same for you to, you prob just like Nadal's big muscles and funky head bands ;) thats ok Im cool with that.

You can only rise to the upper limit of your capabilities. Safin, Roddick, Hewitt, Nalbandian and Davydenko were all decent players but quite limited. The generation that came after them were far superior. Federer, Nadal and Djokovic all raised the level themselves but I don't think the current generation are in their league and I think Federer is a notch below Nadal and Djokovic.

It's a weak argument you're putting forward for Federer and it's one that does not hold up when you put it under the lens. Safin, Roddick, Hewitt, Davydenko and Nalbandian all fell off a cliff in their mid 20s after being top 4 players during Federer's golden patch (03-07). There's no dodging that at all. All these guys fell of a cliff in what should have been their prime years when a new era emerged, what does that say for the abilities of those guys? What does it say for the currency of grand slams 03-07.

I'm saying context matters a lot and you're sticking your fingers in your ears when it comes to looking at the context of Federer's slams in the 03-07 era, that dominance never continued when Nadal and Djokovic truly emerged. You should be analysing why that was but maybe the answer makes uncomfortable reading.

It's all laid out for you there but it looks like you are intent on choosing the ignorant path.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: omaghjoe on September 11, 2019, 06:42:30 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 06:14:44 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 11, 2019, 05:41:05 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 04:45:06 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 11, 2019, 04:20:30 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 11, 2019, 07:56:53 AM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 10, 2019, 10:18:35 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 10, 2019, 12:06:53 AM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 11:24:58 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 11:18:45 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:49:23 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 10:37:41 PM
Quote from: omaghjoe on September 09, 2019, 10:22:41 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 09, 2019, 06:50:19 PM
If Medvedev can sustain or build up this year's summer hard court form then he will win a hard court slam next year for sure.

I think Djokovic might now struggle to reach 20, the next gen will all be taking confidence from Medvedev and they will have the belief that they are as good or better than them. The problem for Djokovic is that they are all at their best on hard courts, guys like Zverev, Tsitsipas, Rublev, Khachanov, FAA and Shapovalov all have a game made for hard courts and that's Djokovic's bread and butter.

I think the changing of guard is now going to come a lot sooner than people think and I think we'll have a next gen slam champion for sure next season.

I think Nadal will just do enough (injury permitting) to oust Federer in slam titles and rightfully take his place as the GOAT. He still has no peers on clay and I think if he gets the next two years of play without injuries or setbacks he will pick up one or two RG. I think last night might be his last non-clay slam though.

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Thats like saying Mick Lyons was a better footballer than Maurice Fitzgerald

There's no real question between Nadal and Federer. Nadal is miles ahead. The real debate is between Nadal and Djokovic.

Nadal has a superior head to head over Federer and Djokovic at slams.

Federer made hay when the competition was weak. He won 12 of his 20 slams between 2003-07. That was before Nadal and Djokovic established themselves, he was up against the likes of Hewitt, Roddick, Nalbandian, Davydenko and Safin for slams. All these guys were busted flushes in their mid 20s, they struggled to compete with the likes of Murray, Wawrinka, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Cilic, Feeder etc nevermind Nadal and Djokovic and this was Federer's main competition then.

Look at the early finals Federer had - Philippoussis, Safin, Roddick, Hewitt, a mid 30s Agassi, a teenage Nadal, Gonzalez.

It's a bit like when Gooch would rip it up in an All Ireland final against poor Cork and Mayo teams but struggle in the big tests.

Federer's record is padded by having a 5 year head start on Nadal and Djokovic. There's no way he would have got to 20 had he came through at the same time. The question for no 1 remains between Nadal and Djokovic but Federer is no 3.

Thats all fine and well but he's still a bull in a China shop

Clearly you don't watch him much.

A bull in a china shop would not dominate clay court tennis, you actually need to be able to craft and create shots rather than bludgeon the ball past your opponents and serve heavy like hard and grass courts require.

You clearly don't know finesse when you see it. Fed is obviously more technically gifted and naturally talented than either he just doesnt have the same physical attributes.

Finesse is aesthetic. He doesn't have the same physical attributes but neither does he have the same craft and problem solving ability that Nadal has.

Problem solving?? Didnt think Maths ability came into it but each to their own. When you are having a GOAT of all time debate it is entirely subjective.

Anyway Nadal has 12 Roland Garros and you could also say they are of lesser value as clay only takes up a portion of the season this gives more incentive and time for clay specialists to adapt to hard court and grass and the reverse for the hard/grass court specialists.
It also means the most talented players will always concentrate on the harder surfaces leading to overall less competitive clay competitions. So its safe to say Nadal has had a less competitive run at Roland Garros than Federer had in the early part of his career.
Also when Nadal was injured Fed and Djoikvic duly picked up their Roland Garros titles so its save to say they can play clay.

It could also be said that Fed in the early part of his career blew away the opposition by raising the bar to a different level, he brought shots that no one had ever seen before. Its safe to say he blew the competition out of the water and they couldnt adapt I would say because their games were too entrenched to adapt and prob too psychologically damaged fro the trimmings he gave them. The new crop coming behind them had a target and example to aim at (Fed) thus their playing style could be adapted as it was less embedded and they didn't have the mental baggage as being at the top and being knocked off their perch.
I dont buy for a minute that the competition was overly weak back then, fair enough there was no one else compared to Nadal and Djokivic, and while Roddick was limited he remained competitive for a long time, Hewitt was decent, and Safin certainly I would put alongside any of the 2nd tier of this era esp on hard courts, tho he did have a dubious temperament.

You can ream off all the stats you want but you can say any of them are skewed: Nadals advantage on clay, Fed to old, Nadal injured, Djokvic too young.....
At the end of the day I do like Feds style more, he has a very natural style always makes things look easy like anyone could do it, the single handed backhand at that level is a joy to behold. Nadal and Djokvic always look like they are playing at the limits of their skill level and their physical prowess is taking over.

Problem solving was what got Nadal the slam on Sunday evening, he was in bother but he found a way out with an opponent who was playing the tennis of his life.

The stats aren't skewed, it's remarkable what Nadal has done because of everything, the injuries, the fact clay only takes up 1/4 of the slams, the era he came into. People like to use Nadal's dominance on clay as a stick to beat him with but it's even more remarkable if anything. There's twice as many hard slams as clay every year, the same amount of grass slams and Nadal has ended up on 19 despite being dismissed as a one dimensional clay player. He's untouchable on clay and over the years he has altered his game to not only be competitive outside clay but successful on it. He has 7 non-clay slam titles now, 4 at the US Open which is more than Djokovic has and one less than Federer. Djokovic and Federer have 2 clay court slams between them and only Djokovic has beaten Nadal at RG, once.

Greatness is not about style over substance, as gallsman said, Federer's backhand looks great aesthetically but is arguably his weakness as it it is not reliable enough, when opponents go after it they get success. Federer's biggest weapon is his serving, nothing too much in the aesthetics there. Nadal gets unfairly cast type as some sort of athletic freak who wouldn't know what to do with a racket. Nadal has probably the greatest forehand in the game (I don't think it's as lethal as it was pre 2014 though), he has by far the best overhead smash in the game, his drop shots are definitely up there (being a clay courter) and he has worked tirelessly on his backhand and slice over the years to make it a weapon. If you look across their games, there's not too many shots of Federer you'd choose over Nadal, the serve is the only one with notable gap between them.

I think Nadal is probably the one who is furthest off his peak years at the minute now out of the big 3. The injuries have taken a toll on his body and he has had to change the way he plays his game. The game with Medvedev was the only game he played over 4 hours this year, his longest one up until last night had been 3 hrs 15 minutes against Kyrgios at Wimbledon. He made 3 finals and a SF this year, he has moved away what he did in his peak because his knees won't sustain it. Where Nadal has evolved and adapted Federer and Djokovic haven't really had to as the scales are already tipped in their favour with the slam calendar.

There is no slam of lesser value, you might have bought a little too much into an anglo-centric viewpoint that Wimbledon is the be all and end all. They're all worth the same.

If no slam is of lesser value then when are you trying to devalue Feds to make your point? Nadal just won a Grand slam without playing Fed or Djokivic surely according to your criteria youd have this as an undervalued one?

He wins the Roland Garros and is so dominant there because it is his preferred surface and the other top players dont like it and dont have the same time on clay to adjust their game to make themselves competitive. There is no question that it is less competitive that the other surfaces

Fed backhand a weakness :D :D. Opponents dont go after it.... they just dont want his forehand. By the way I would say the strongest part of his game is his footwork/balance. His biggest weakness is probably his speed around the court.

If Nadal is further off his peak years because of the strain on his body it is demonstration that he is using more physical effort to win.

Context, Nadal, Federer and Djokovic are all courters. It's not as if Federer and Djokovic are like Pete Sampras, in that they are one dimensional players, unlike Sampras they have a lot more to their game than a big serve and only for the were around the same time as the greatest clay courter to ever play the game by a country mile they'd have 4 or 5 French Opens each. So every slam is worth the same US, Australian, French and Wimbledon.

The currency of the open in terms of competition is completely different. If you can't see that Federer's main rivals in that 03-07 era were powderpuff then you are an ostrich.

Roddick
Hewitt
Nalbandian
Safin
Davydenko

All washed up by their mid 20s.

Phillippoussis, Gonzalez, Bagdathis and an over the hill Agassi in slam finals at that time?

It's about context and there's no way you can say those slams are anywhere near as impressive as what Djokovic and Nadal accomplished in the subsequent years.

12 slams in 5 years (11 of those in a 4 year period) pre Nadal and Djokovic breakout against 8 in 12 years during the post breakout of Nadal and Djokovic. Unfortunately there are the kind of stats which the Fedheads try to run away from but they can't, all the smokescreens in the world won't diminish them which is why they usually have to lower the tone with completely unsubstantiated allegations against Nadal and Djokovic.

Speaking of Ostrichs Fed rose the bar to a new level in those years, the current crop had the opportunity to rise to meet it, his peers not so much. Nadal and Djokovic are exceptions obviously but your not gonna tell me that outside of the top 3 the top players were ALL just naturally better than the crop from 5 years previously. There was a reason they performed better and that reason was Fed had raised the bar and the next crop had more of an opportunity to hit that his peers did.

Grass and Hard court players have always struggled on clay sure Fed often flopped there in his early years. Clay courters have more of an opportunity and incentive to adapt their game. Whats more the nature of the methodical nature of the clay game means its very difficult for a lesser opponent to get one over a better player.  You only have to look at the results to say that Nadal has had nothing but an easy time there, and how many does he have then? 12 and counting is it?

Anyway are certain Slams worth more than others or not? Your saying they are and they arent, you cant have it both ways

Your own criteria for GOAT is letting your argument down Im afraid. Its Fairly irrelevant to my own opinion for GOAT but Ive a feeling that is the same for you to, you prob just like Nadal's big muscles and funky head bands ;) thats ok Im cool with that.

You can only rise to the upper limit of your capabilities. Safin, Roddick, Hewitt, Nalbandian and Davydenko were all decent players but quite limited. The generation that came after them were far superior. Federer, Nadal and Djokovic all raised the level themselves but I don't think the current generation are in their league and I think Federer is a notch below Nadal and Djokovic.

It's a weak argument you're putting forward for Federer and it's one that does not hold up when you put it under the lens. Safin, Roddick, Hewitt, Davydenko and Nalbandian all fell off a cliff in their mid 20s after being top 4 players during Federer's golden patch (03-07). There's no dodging that at all. All these guys fell of a cliff in what should have been their prime years when a new era emerged, what does that say for the abilities of those guys? What does it say for the currency of grand slams 03-07.

I'm saying context matters a lot and you're sticking your fingers in your ears when it comes to looking at the context of Federer's slams in the 03-07 era, that dominance never continued when Nadal and Djokovic truly emerged. You should be analysing why that was but maybe the answer makes uncomfortable reading.

It's all laid out for you there but it looks like you are intent on choosing the ignorant path.

The upper limit of their abilities eh  ;D and how do define what this? Obviously nothing do with the training they received at critical periods in their development for the professional game.... rather it is just inherent... that a tough sell

Im only pointing out the flaws in your criteria and argument for Nadal which you are happy enuff to ignore thats ok Im cool with that. Its got nothing to do with why I think Fed is the GOAT so Im not really ignoring anything.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on September 11, 2019, 11:26:52 PM
Fed is the current best tennis player based on grand slams. Nadal could be very soon, but until then..
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 13, 2019, 01:36:06 PM
Another Masters 1000 for Medvedev, he has now made the final of the last 6 tournaments he has played, including 3 Masters 1000s and the US Open.

I'd have him as favourite for the year end title and Australian Open, his hard court form has been outrageous and nobody really seems to have his measure.

He is going to stop Djokovic from reaching 20 I think.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on October 13, 2019, 02:00:25 PM
Nobody has his measure? He played Nadal twice in that span and lost twice, one of them a trouncing.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 13, 2019, 02:18:56 PM
Quote from: gallsman on October 13, 2019, 02:00:25 PM
Nobody has his measure? He played Nadal twice in that span and lost twice, one of them a trouncing.

He's getting better and better since, he's won 18 straight sets since the meeting with Nadal which he was very unlucky to lose. Nadal had to dig that out from the impossible.

Watching him play it's clear his opponents really don't know how to deal with him, he seems like a magnet to the ball.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 01, 2020, 11:47:50 AM
Fancy Thiem to take Djokovic tomorrow.

Thiem has had the measure of him recently winning 4 of their last 5 meetings, 4 of those meetings were on clay but Thiem won their last meeting which was on hard court at the ATP finals in November. He has the durability and the legs to stick in there with Djokovic but he also has the offensive weapons, if there's one thing that gets at Djokovic its when his opponent takes on the ball early, flattens out their strike and hits it at pace. It's why Wawrinka has caused him so many problems in the past.

Djokovic's record in Australia is phenomenal, this is his 8th final, he's won the previous 7 but I think if there's one player in the game today that really unnerves him then that is Dominic Thiem.

Thiem has had two 4 hr + battles in his last two games and Djokovic also has had an extra days rest but I don't think Thiem will be lacking in reserves.

The first set is absolutely crucial in this tie. If Djokovic gets ahead he can be very hard to peg back.

Should be a cracker.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on February 01, 2020, 05:38:27 PM
Djokovic to win, didn't think he could get any better but he his serve gas gotten stronger lately, maybe Ivanisevic is earning his crust.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 02, 2020, 10:30:32 AM
One set each.

It's not really kicked off yet, both players playing in fits and starts.

Strangely muted atmosphere, doesn't seem to have the same buzz without Federer or Nadal being involved.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 02, 2020, 11:15:55 AM
Thiem takes the third set 6-2.

Djokovic had an implosion at the start of the third set on his serve and Thiem punished him.

Djokovic looks well out of sorts and Thiem isn't playing anywhere near the heights he did against Nadal or Zverev.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 02, 2020, 11:57:30 AM
Deciding set coming up.

Poor final though, scrappy, error ridden, flat.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Saffrongael on February 02, 2020, 12:05:32 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 02, 2020, 11:57:30 AM
Deciding set coming up.

Poor final though, scrappy, error ridden, flat.

Djokovics gluten free diet should really come into play here in these long matches
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 02, 2020, 12:41:47 PM
Djokovic will serve for the title here.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 02, 2020, 12:47:06 PM
AO no 8 for Djokovic.

Poor enough final all told, Thiem will be disappointed he didn't take advantage of Djokovic in that form.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 02, 2020, 01:55:14 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 02, 2020, 12:47:06 PM
AO no 8 for Djokovic.

Poor enough final all told, Thiem will be disappointed he didn't take advantage of Djokovic in that form.

Your knowledge of tennis is like your knowledge of Tyrones efforts in Ulster club championship.

Novak is unreal, to beat a fitter younger player who beat Nadal on the way says something about the man
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 02, 2020, 02:20:10 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 02, 2020, 01:55:14 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 02, 2020, 12:47:06 PM
AO no 8 for Djokovic.

Poor enough final all told, Thiem will be disappointed he didn't take advantage of Djokovic in that form.

Your knowledge of tennis is like your knowledge of Tyrones efforts in Ulster club championship.

Novak is unreal, to beat a fitter younger player who beat Nadal on the way says something about the man

I thought I called it pretty well. Thiem was a level or two below how he played in the QF and SF. He had 6 hours more on court and a day's less rest than Djokovic before the final.

He's certainly the player on tour at the minute who unsettles Djokovic the most.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 02, 2020, 02:57:44 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 02, 2020, 02:20:10 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 02, 2020, 01:55:14 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 02, 2020, 12:47:06 PM
AO no 8 for Djokovic.

Poor enough final all told, Thiem will be disappointed he didn't take advantage of Djokovic in that form.

Your knowledge of tennis is like your knowledge of Tyrones efforts in Ulster club championship.

Novak is unreal, to beat a fitter younger player who beat Nadal on the way says something about the man

I thought I called it pretty well. Thiem was a level or two below how he played in the QF and SF. He had 6 hours more on court and a day's less rest than Djokovic before the final.

He's certainly the player on tour at the minute who unsettles Djokovic the most.

This lad will win but the trio won't be hanging up the rackets just yet. Novak is the younger of the three and could possibly catch them. I think he had the best record against the other two
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 02, 2020, 03:29:17 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 02, 2020, 02:57:44 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 02, 2020, 02:20:10 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 02, 2020, 01:55:14 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 02, 2020, 12:47:06 PM
AO no 8 for Djokovic.

Poor enough final all told, Thiem will be disappointed he didn't take advantage of Djokovic in that form.

Your knowledge of tennis is like your knowledge of Tyrones efforts in Ulster club championship.

Novak is unreal, to beat a fitter younger player who beat Nadal on the way says something about the man

I thought I called it pretty well. Thiem was a level or two below how he played in the QF and SF. He had 6 hours more on court and a day's less rest than Djokovic before the final.

He's certainly the player on tour at the minute who unsettles Djokovic the most.

This lad will win but the trio won't be hanging up the rackets just yet. Novak is the younger of the three and could possibly catch them. I think he had the best record against the other two

Djokovic has a winning record head to head against Nadal and Federer but Nadal has a winning record head to head against Djokovic and Federer at slams.

The problem for Djokovic is that the next gen coming through all excel on hard courts bar Thiem who is more at home on clay. Djokovic had a really handy draw, Tsitsipas flopped early doors and the only real tough tie he had on paper was a weary Federer.

I don't think Nadal can beat Djokovic on hard courts anymore, he's had to adjust his game in the past few years and he doesn't have the legs to live with Djokovic like he would have in his prime. Djokovic's biggest threat on hard courts will come from the likes of Thiem, Tsitsipas and Medvedev - maybe Shapovalov if he can kick on too.

How the draw pans out will decide the future slams, do Djokovic, Nadal and Federer have the reserves to come through 5 setters from the QF stage anymore unlikely. If the likes of Zverev, Medevedev, Thiem and Tsitsipas play up to their seeds then that means the big 3 will have to do it the hard way to win slams.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on February 02, 2020, 06:27:28 PM
Be interesting to see who ends up on top of the GS list, Federer unlikely to add many more, if any. Nadal will likely add a RG title for most of his remaining years too and could pick up one or two others. The sky is the limit for Djokovic though, should be on top in two years unless something goes spectacularly wrong.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 02, 2020, 07:14:18 PM
Nadal would need to be injured to lose French, Wimbledon is Fed's best chance for him. Again he'll need to be injury free, he was unlucky this time as he was injured against Novak
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 06, 2020, 09:36:47 PM
First next gen winner on the way.

Djokovic defaulted after blasting a ball at the line judge.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mrdeeds on September 06, 2020, 09:39:58 PM
Quote from: Angelo on September 06, 2020, 09:36:47 PM
First next gen winner on the way.

Djokovic defaulted after blasting a ball at the line judge.

Hardly blasted.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: square_ball on September 06, 2020, 09:43:09 PM
10/10 for the dive.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Boycey on September 07, 2020, 09:33:15 AM
I wonder when her claim will go in  :)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Roesider on September 10, 2020, 07:11:57 PM
Just saw that footage. Jesus Christ did she make a meal of it. it was an underhand as well.
I bet if had been a different player the ejection would not have happened.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on September 10, 2020, 10:04:31 PM
I would have just caught the ball.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on September 10, 2020, 10:40:50 PM
Quote from: Roesider on September 10, 2020, 07:11:57 PM
Just saw that footage. Jesus Christ did she make a meal of it. it was an underhand as well.
I bet if had been a different player the ejection would not have happened.

Horseshit. Anyone other than Djokovic, Federer, Serena etc they wouldn't even have got the the on court explanation.

As for the line judge, taking a tennis ball to throat could cripple anyone if it hits you square on the windpipe.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 11, 2020, 09:46:16 AM
First next gen winner is on the way in any case.

Medvedev or Thiem will now have contested 4 of the last 5 slams so the tide is turning, think it's very likely the decider between them this evening. Zverev is capable but don't think he has the resolve of Medvedev or Thiem who have slam final experience.

If you asked me two years ago who went end up top of the pile I would certainly have said Djokovic but he was quite lucky to dig out his last two slams in five setters against Thiem and Federer and the fact that the next gen are all excelling on Djokovic's favourite surface is a worry for him.

When Nadal closed in on Federer at the US Open and Djokovic followed up at the Australian it seemed unlikely Federer would stay at the top but Covid has really upset the apple cart. The French Open looks set to be a much stronger field than the US was so should be much more interesting.

Both Nadal and Djokovic will be desperate to avoid Thiem on their side of the draw, Thiem will likely have to beat both to win RG and he's capable of that, he's playing outstanding tennis in the past 18 months and is young and fresh enough to do it.

I don't think Nadal can take both Djokovic and Thiem in the one weekend now and I don't think Djokovic is strong enough on clay to beat the two best clay courters back to back either. It looks set to be a Thiem v Nadal/Djokovic final depending on how the draw goes.


Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 14, 2020, 01:24:54 AM
Thiem wins his first slam, first player to come from 2 sets down in a US Open final since 1949.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on September 14, 2020, 02:01:44 AM
great drama, fair play, both tried to throw it away, have no doubt jokes would have prevailed against either had they not canned him

thiem will be a threat in paris but still fancy rafa
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on September 14, 2020, 10:39:47 AM
Quote from: Mikhail Prokhorov on September 14, 2020, 02:01:44 AM
great drama, fair play, both tried to throw it away, have no doubt jokes would have prevailed against either had they not canned him

thiem will be a threat in paris but still fancy rafa

Rafa will need to avoid Thiem on his side of the draw, it would be a big ask to take both Thiem and Djokovic in a couple of days at 34 years of age. Djokovic will hope to be avoiding Thiem for similar reasons.

The Italian Open starts tomorrow and it will be Rafa's first game since Covid, he has Carreno Busta up first in a tricky tie.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 07, 2020, 09:57:40 AM
Nadal took a long time to get going last night but eventually saw off Sinner in straight sets.

Sinner looks like a huge prospect for the future. He will now play Schwartzman in the semi who knocked out Thiem in a 5 hr, 5 set epic yesterday. Scwartzman beat Nadal in straight sets in Italy a few weeks ago so will be in confident form ahead of their meeting.

On the other side of the draw, Djokovic should take care of Carreno Busta but the other quarter is an exciting contest, Rublev v Tsitsipas. Rublev has been in fine form but I take Tsitsipas will have the edge on clay, Tsitsipas very nearly went in the first round but has been impressive since then and if he keeps up that form I think he could ask Djokovic big questions in a semi final.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on October 07, 2020, 11:45:11 AM
Sinner had a few opportunities to win the first set last night but blew it. Nadal played with a racket with slightly less tension, so had to hit the ball harder to reach his normal speed.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 07, 2020, 11:52:08 AM
The conditions this time of year certainly do not suit Nadal. He is much happier with a drier, faster court on clay.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 09, 2020, 05:20:32 PM
Nadal in his 13th RG SF.

Yet to drop a set.

He is 13-0 in RG SFs, has only dropped 3 sets in those 13 semi finals, 1 against Federer in 2006 and 2 against Djokovic in 2013.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: SHEEDY on October 09, 2020, 09:02:18 PM
Great game in the 2nd semi final. Stefano Tsitsipas has fought back from 2 sets down to take match into a deciding set. Giving djokovic a real game here.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: SHEEDY on October 09, 2020, 09:35:14 PM
Nadal v djokovic again. Tsitsipas day will definitely come, still only 22.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 09, 2020, 09:40:20 PM
Tsitsipas was very impressive there. Djokovic played really well and didn't really give Tsitsipas much to play with which made it all the more impressive that he brought it to a deciding set.

The Old Firm meet again.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on October 09, 2020, 09:50:16 PM
Has Nadal's game changed due to the conditions and will that give Novak a better chance?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 10, 2020, 09:38:31 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 09, 2020, 09:50:16 PM
Has Nadal's game changed due to the conditions and will that give Novak a better chance?

The conditions are certainly a bit of a leveller, Nadal would prefer the conditions drier as it firms up the court and allows the ball the bounce higher and to get more spin on his shots.

Djokovic has also been working hard on his drop shot the past few weeks and it has been a real weapon so it is something extra he brings this time round.

A huge game in the GOAT race.

Nadal can move level with Federer on 20 and put a gap of 3 between himself and Djokovic or Djokovic can close to within 1 of Nadal and 2 of Federer.

I think if Djokovic wins, he is certain to end on top of the pile, a loss may complicate matters as most of the next gen thrive on hard courts - Zverev, Medvedev, Tsitsipas, Shapovalov, Rublev etc. Even though Thiem won the US Open last year and has proven himself an excellent hard court player, clay is his best surface.

The US and Aus Opens will be the hardest won slams from here on in for the older guard.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on October 10, 2020, 12:08:08 PM
Novak bring kicked out last time is certainly a factor in his drive to win this. Sets it up to be a cracker
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 01:44:04 PM
Feet up and ready for this match!

Nadal bookies favourite hard to separate though
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 01:55:23 PM
Roof closed.

Adv Djokovic.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 02:04:52 PM
Quote from: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 01:55:23 PM
Roof closed.

Adv Djokovic.

He's played 101 games won 99! Advantage Nadal!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 02:43:50 PM
Outrageous from Rafa so far.

4-0 up.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 02:47:37 PM
Novak has given this set up by looks of it! Nadal is returning some unreal shots
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 02:53:08 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 02:47:37 PM
Novak has given this set up by looks of it! Nadal is returning some unreal shots

He's barely getting a first serve in and Rafa has been imperious so far.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 03:46:32 PM
6-0, 6-2 Nadal

Djokovic is going to have to pull out the greatest Houdini act of all time here.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on October 11, 2020, 04:02:07 PM
Novak may hit a lino. Its the only way to get out of this with any respect 😉🤓
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on October 11, 2020, 04:14:19 PM
An absolute destruction by Nadal so far. Much worse than the beating Djokovic gave him in Australia two years ago and now like the one Nadal gave Federer in the 08 final.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 04:38:32 PM
Djokovic not dead yet. Nadal serves to stay in the third.

Nadal has had a tendency to tighten up in recent years as he gets closer to the finish line, his 1st serve % is way down in this third set and Djokovic is begging to dictate the points.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 04:51:48 PM
The Greatest of All Time

The Best Ever
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 04:57:47 PM
Arguably the greatest performance of all time as the greatest of all time secures his legacy beyond doubt as the greatest of all time.

Vamos Rafa!!!!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on October 11, 2020, 05:20:44 PM
Incredible performance. Even better, and more surprising given the conditions should have tilted it a bit more towards Djokovic.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 05:25:52 PM
Quote from: gallsman on October 11, 2020, 05:20:44 PM
Incredible performance. Even better, and more surprising given the conditions should have tilted it a bit more towards Djokovic.

Yup, extraordinary.

He is the GOAT.

I think that was a huge one in the race for the GOAT.

People still back Djokovic to topple him but all the next gen are hard court players and that's where Djokovic is going to come under pressure. He will find it tough to win on clay with Nadal and Thiem ahead of him.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on October 11, 2020, 05:32:08 PM
Djokovic will still be red hot favourite for Australia but:

1) the last month will have taken a bit of a toll on him for sure. He probably fancied catching Rafa on 19 but not find himself 3 behind.

2) who knows what state the world will be in in 3 months time?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 05:50:29 PM
Quote from: gallsman on October 11, 2020, 05:32:08 PM
Djokovic will still be red hot favourite for Australia but:

1) the last month will have taken a bit of a toll on him for sure. He probably fancied catching Rafa on 19 but not find himself 3 behind.

2) who knows what state the world will be in in 3 months time?

You could see Djokovic going on for another 5 years but you don't know what will happen.

Thiem won a slam this year, Zverev in a final, Medvedev made a final last year - all on hard. Tsitsipas has the talent. Shapovalov and Rublev are coming on, Sinner looks a big talent. With the exception of Thiem (who is now a slam winner on hard), all these guys are at their best on hard courts. That's where the pressure will fall on Djokovic. I think Wimbledon will probably be his best chance going forward, if Nadal can add another couple I don't see anyone catching him. I think Thiem is currently the only guy who I'd fancy to beat Nadal on clay now.

These were unfavourable conditions for Nadal on clay - slow court, cold, indoors and slower balls ye the won it without dropping a set - only forced to two tie breaks along the way. Remarkable.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 07:47:45 PM
Ok that was a master class from the person who's won a tournament 13 times! Amazing run of wins at that surface, regardless of what people think, to be the 'GOAT' you've to be a  champion across all surfaces.

If Nadal could secure 2/3 more titles on a different surface he'll be the man .. he's only lost twice ever in Paris.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 08:40:06 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 07:47:45 PM
Ok that was a master class from the person who's won a tournament 13 times! Amazing run of wins at that surface, regardless of what people think, to be the 'GOAT' you've to be a  champion across all surfaces.

If Nadal could secure 2/3 more titles on a different surface he'll be the man .. he's only lost twice ever in Paris.

Nadal has 7 titles on grass and hard courts.

Nadal has won double the amount of grass court titles Federer has clay.
Nadal has won 5 times the number of hard court titles Djokovic has clay (2 hard slams a year so you can dilute to 2.5)

All you have done is point out that the slam calendar discriminates against Nadal.

It's also worth noting that Federer won 12 of his slam titles in a 5 year period when Nadal was (16-21) and Djokovic (15-20) and only won 7 slams in the next 13 years.

Nadal has had a prime Djokovic and prime Federer for all his career, Djokovic likewise.

Federer on the other hand won most of his slams when he had the likes of Hewitt, Roddick, Philopoussis, Safin, Nalbandian, Kafelnikov, Bagdathis as his main competition. When the competition got tougher, the slams dried up quickly and he was relegated to no 3. He's had a great career but he is definitely no 3 behind Nadal and Djokovic.

Look at Federer's first 12 slam wins and his final opponents:

2003 Wimbledon - Phillippousis
2004 Austrailian - Safin
2004 US - Hewitt
2005 Wimbledon - Roddick
2005 US - Agassi (35 years old - retired the following year)
2006 Australian - Bagdathis
2006 Wimbledon - Nadal (had just turned 20)
2006 US - Roddick
2007 Australia - Gonzalez
2007 Wimbledon - Nadal (just turned 21)
2007 US - Djokovic (20 yrs old)
2008 US - Murray (21 yrs old)




Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 08:49:40 PM
Not to mention Nadal is

- the only one of the big 3 to complete the golden slam
- the only one with multiple slam titles on every surface
- has a superior head to head record with the other two in slam meetings (10-6 against Djokovic and 10-4 Federer)
- reached 20 in 19 less slams than Federer
- 5x Davis Cup Winner


He's been written off time and time again, overcame multiple injury setbacks and now has 6 slams in his 30s. He has completely adjusted his game in the past 5 years, he's far more aggressive now, his serve is much more of a weapon. Who would have seen this after the nightmare run he had in 2015/16?

Not only is he the greatest tennis player of all time, there's a great case to be made for him being the greatest sportsman of all time.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Boycey on October 11, 2020, 08:54:23 PM
Greatest person of all-time IMHO  8)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 09:41:04 PM
All I've pointed out is he's better on clay than other courts.

Equal now on grand slams
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 09:48:02 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 09:41:04 PM
All I've pointed out is he's better on clay than other courts.

Equal now on grand slams

Federer is better on grass than other courts.

Djokovic is better on hard than other courts.

The tennis calendar in terms of slams discriminate against a clay court player so it's remarkable what Nadal has done in terms of injuries, in terms of the calendar.

He has the golden slam.
He has the 5 Davis Cup wins.
He has the superior head to head record in slams against both Djokovic and Federer.

He is the GOAT, there's no metric that puts Federer ahead of him now, the last one that could be argued was relinquished today.

And in context, Federer is no 3. Djokovic could still end up top of the pile but it looks very likely Federer will stay at 3 in the all time rankings.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 09:54:53 PM
Take that up with the tennis association..


In terms of slams you have 2 hard court 1 clay and one grass.

If there's was no clay he'll have only won 7
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 10:03:13 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 09:54:53 PM
Take that up with the tennis association..


In terms of slams you have 2 hard court 1 clay and one grass.

If there's was no clay he'll have only won 7

And if there were 2 clay slams he could have won 32......

As it is, with the calendar discriminating against him he is already the greatest, with the injuries, he has reached that number in 12 less attempts than Federer, 2 and a half years younger than Federer, with a better head to head record than Federer, with the golden slam, with the 5 Davis Cups......

And that's without even adding the context of the fact that Federer won the bulk of his slams when tennis was in a much weaker era......

There is no metric left to put Federer as the greatest anymore.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 10:12:16 PM
Quote from: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 10:03:13 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 09:54:53 PM
Take that up with the tennis association..


In terms of slams you have 2 hard court 1 clay and one grass.

If there's was no clay he'll have only won 7

And if there were 2 clay slams he could have won 32......

As it is, with the calendar discriminating against him he is already the greatest, with the injuries, he has reached that number in 12 less attempts than Federer, 2 and a half years younger than Federer, with a better head to head record than Federer, with the golden slam, with the 5 Davis Cups......

And that's without even adding the context of the fact that Federer won the bulk of his slams when tennis was in a much weaker era......

There is no metric left to put Federer as the greatest anymore.

It is what it is, there are 2 yard court and one grass and one clay! Ffs lad that's what it is, he knew that growing up but decided to dedicate himself to one surface! no one has made do that only him
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on October 11, 2020, 10:13:03 PM
Quote from: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 10:03:13 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 09:54:53 PM
Take that up with the tennis association..


In terms of slams you have 2 hard court 1 clay and one grass.

If there's was no clay he'll have only won 7

And if there were 2 clay slams he could have won 32......

As it is, with the calendar discriminating against him he is already the greatest, with the injuries, he has reached that number in 12 less attempts than Federer, 2 and a half years younger than Federer, with a better head to head record than Federer, with the golden slam, with the 5 Davis Cups......

And that's without even adding the context of the fact that Federer won the bulk of his slams when tennis was in a much weaker era......

There is no metric left to put Federer as the greatest anymore.

You're a big fan of that particular argument.

It's the same thing on multiple threads with the general gist being:

"The level of competition wasn't as high as it was before or after which is why X won their specific competition(s)

Ref: This thread, not the first time you've brought this particular argument up regarding RF, Rafa + ND

Ref: Golf Thread - McIlroy Majors

Ref: Messi/Ronaldo thread - Nedved/Shevchenko
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 10:14:25 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 10:12:16 PM
Quote from: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 10:03:13 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 09:54:53 PM
Take that up with the tennis association..


In terms of slams you have 2 hard court 1 clay and one grass.

If there's was no clay he'll have only won 7

And if there were 2 clay slams he could have won 32......

As it is, with the calendar discriminating against him he is already the greatest, with the injuries, he has reached that number in 12 less attempts than Federer, 2 and a half years younger than Federer, with a better head to head record than Federer, with the golden slam, with the 5 Davis Cups......

And that's without even adding the context of the fact that Federer won the bulk of his slams when tennis was in a much weaker era......

There is no metric left to put Federer as the greatest anymore.

It is what it is, there are 2 yard court and one grass and one clay! Ffs lad that's what it is, he knew that growing up but decided to dedicate himself to one surface! no one has made do that only him

Yes, it is what it is and it's a disadvantage to Nadal and he's still came out on top of the pile and there no longer exists a metric for the Fedheads to be able to dispute that Nadal is the greatest.

Dry your eyes. Today was the day that Nadal established himself as the GOAT.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 10:17:57 PM
He's level with Roger, and dominant on one surface, I've known that. You were upping Novak today for some reason, even when I showed you the stats!!

Bizarre but you would like a second clay slam and obviously a second grass?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 10:47:46 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 10:17:57 PM
He's level with Roger, and dominant on one surface, I've known that. You were upping Novak today for some reason, even when I showed you the stats!!

Bizarre but you would like a second clay slam and obviously a second grass?

Dominant on one surface?

Nadal is the ONLY one of the big three to have won MULTIPLE SLAMS on all three surfaces.

I think grass and hard courts play an awful lot closer to each other than clay, both grass and hard courts - everything comes off the serve. Could you honestly see Kevin Anderson, Mark Phillipoussis or Marin Cilic in a RG final? Not a chance. Clay takes a more variable type of game, it takes more craft to make a winning point - not just bludgeoning the ball as hard as you can. You could see it Nadal's play today, Djokovic just didn't know what way it was going to come back at him.

So 3/4 of the tennis season is suited to a certain type of player and 3/4 of the tennis season is not suited to Nadal's game. Remember when they said Nadal was one dimensional clay court player who would never win outside of clay? I do, he now has seven slams on grass and hard courts, he has had to adapt his game again, again and again all throughout his career. He has the same amount of slam titles on grass and hard courts as McEnroe has won in totality, more non-clay slams than the likes of Becker and Edberg have in totality.

So dominant on one one surfrace? Not a hope.

Only three players have won more non-clay slams in the modern era than Nadal, three - and that's apparently Nadal's weakness. His weakness is something only three players in the modern era has bettered.

And after all this, top of the pile.

I was edging for Novak today, the conditions, indoor, slower court, lower bounce, heavier balls,  and Nadal had played very little tennis coming into it and Nadal devoured him.

The only player with the golden slam along with Agassi.

The only player with multiple slams on all sufaces.

5x Davis Cup winner and superior head to head records in slams with Djokovic and Nadal.

He is the GOAT, no metric contests it.

For some reason you are attempting to run down clay court tennis.




Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 10:55:54 PM
I'm not running down clay court, you said he's being discriminated against ffs! Catch yourself on, these are the grand slams, if there was extra grass and clay would he be on top?

He's level on grand slams so he's joint GOAT.

Forget all that other stuff please . Slams are what counts and if you want to develop a Tyrone clay court championship into a grand slam then no doubt it will be a cracker, until then stop with the stupid math, he knew this growing up, but decided to craft his ability to clay!

I thought he was free money at 4/6 to be fair
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Capt Pat on October 11, 2020, 11:17:13 PM
Wimbledon is the big one isn't it? Roland Garros is simply not nearly as important except in Spain. Nadal is the greatest Spaniard so.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 11:18:50 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 10:55:54 PM
I'm not running down clay court, you said he's being discriminated against ffs! Catch yourself on, these are the grand slams, if there was extra grass and clay would he be on top?

He's level on grand slams so he's joint GOAT.

Forget all that other stuff please . Slams are what counts and if you want to develop a Tyrone clay court championship into a grand slam then no doubt it will be a cracker, until then stop with the stupid math, he knew this growing up, but decided to craft his ability to clay!

I thought he was free money at 4/6 to be fair

You brought into it his dominance on one court and I merely pointed out that the calendar actually discriminates against clay court players as it only has the one slam. If there was extra grass and clay he would be undoubtedly on top, he has 15 slams on grass and clay, Federer has 9, Djokovic has 7.

Slams are exactly what counts and Nadal has 20 of them and he didn't pick up 12 of them against duffers like Nalbandian, Roddick, Hewitt, Safin and Phillippousis and a few promising kids who had yet to reach their prime.

And you still seem to be painting him as a one dimensional clay courter, since Nadal won his first non-clay slam in 2008, he has won nearly as many non-clay slams as Federer has.

There are only 3 players in the past 30 years who have won more non-clay titles in the past 40 years - Federer, Djokovic, Sampras.

Sampras was a one dimensional serve bot who never came close to winning a RG title, Agassi was a greater player than him.

Federer and Djokovic are two of the best ever but Federer is a distant third behind Djokovic and Nadal. Federer was dominant when his main competition were guys like Naldbandian, Hewitt, Roddick, Phillippousis, Sadin, Gonzalez, Bagdathis, Nalbandian - guys who started to slide down the rankings when the next generation came along.

If the likes of Berdych and Tsonga were 5/6 years younger they would have been multiple slam winners in that time.

You keep ignoring context. Nadal has achieved greatness far quicker than Federer, has overcame the odds, has done it in a tougher era in less attempts and has the superior slam H2H with his two main adversaries.

Djokovic could yet overtake Nadal but time is running out for all. I don't see Federer adding to things. He had a 6 year drought at one point before he had an Indian summer but turns 40 next year and is after a long layoff with injury. If Nadal stays fit and healthy you could potentially see him win another RG or two.

I think the competition is too tough for Nadal on hard courts now, I don't think he can do a few 5 setters in a hard court tournament, his knees aren't up for it. Wimbledon probably represents his best chance outside of that. After a barren spell at Wimbledon he has done well in the last couple of tournaments and should have beaten Djokovic in 2018. None of the next gen have shown up at Wimbledon next.

Federer went from 12 slams in 18 attempts pre Nadal-Djokovic prime to 8 in 45 Nadal-Djokovic prime. Why do you think that was?




Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 11:21:37 PM
Quote from: Capt Pat on October 11, 2020, 11:17:13 PM
Wimbledon is the big one isn't it? Roland Garros is simply not nearly as important except in Spain. Nadal is the greatest Spaniard so.

Wimbledon is the big one for anglophiles like yourself I'd say. It's the one for the big serving giraffes like Kevin Anderson, Richard Kraijcek, John Isner, Goran Ivanisevic, Mark Philllopoussis, Sampras etc where you just hammer aces all day long.

Roland Garros generally is the one for the mercurial European players with the craft and talent.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Capt Pat on October 11, 2020, 11:28:54 PM
Quote from: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 11:21:37 PM
Quote from: Capt Pat on October 11, 2020, 11:17:13 PM
Wimbledon is the big one isn't it? Roland Garros is simply not nearly as important except in Spain. Nadal is the greatest Spaniard

Wimbledon is the big one for anglophiles like yourself I'd say. It's the one for the big serving giraffes like Kevin Anderson, Richard Kraijcek, John Isner, Goran Ivanisevic, Mark Philllopoussis, Sampras etc where you just hammer aces all day long.

Roland Garros generally is the one for the mercurial European players with the craft and talent.

Federer though is not like a lot of the players you just named. He can do it all. He is exceptional.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 11:30:32 PM
It's just one slam, it's no more difficult than the rest. Nadal is the best at that court, there's nothing else to take from that.

You keep claiming he's discriminated against as it's one surface for a slam. As is Wimbledon, which for me (personally) is the best.

You do get that it's a personal choice and your stats (please only use slam stats) show he's equal to Federer but has 13 on clay some on hard court and some on grass, he's brilliant. How he's got over injuries is impeccable and at 34 will be around for some more, as no one can beat him on clay, hes a great advantage to win more than the rest..
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on October 11, 2020, 11:31:54 PM
Quote from: Capt Pat on October 11, 2020, 11:17:13 PM
Wimbledon is the big one isn't it? Roland Garros is simply not nearly as important except in Spain. Nadal is the greatest Spaniard so.

What absolute drivel. You're on a roll at the minute.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 11:45:36 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 11:30:32 PM
It's just one slam, it's no more difficult than the rest. Nadal is the best at that court, there's nothing else to take from that.

You keep claiming he's discriminated against as it's one surface for a slam. As is Wimbledon, which for me (personally) is the best.

You do get that it's a personal choice and your stats (please only use slam stats) show he's equal to Federer but has 13 on clay some on hard court and some on grass, he's brilliant. How he's got over injuries is impeccable and at 34 will be around for some more, as no one can beat him on clay, hes a great advantage to win more than the rest..

Grass and hard play a lot more similar to each other than either do to clay.

Clay is the most unique of the lot, a big serve is nowhere near the weapon it is on grass or hard that's why the one dimensional giraffes don't go well on clay. Your Andersons, Isners, Phillippousis, Ivanisevics, Cillics, Kraijceks, Raonics etc all struggle on clay because everything for those guys hinges off a serve and just bludgeoning the ball. That is why clay is so different, it requires a complete game, it warrants something more than a big serve, it's drop shots and lobs and a craft to winning points.

Grass and hard courts are primarily serve and volley. If you don't have a huge serve on grass and clay, you are at so much of a disadvantage.

So of course a rounded player will find it tougher on the tennis calendar than a big serving giraffe as 3/4 of the slams favour players that a have a huge serve whereas 1/4 of the slams would favour big players who don't have a big serve. Djokovic and Federer would have 5/6 RG titles each without Nadal there, they are all rounders like Nadal but Nadal is the greatest all rounder of them all which is why he dominates RG. You look at the finalists in Wimbledon and RG outside of the big 3 in recent years - Anderson, Raonic, Cillic etc - what have they in common. Guys who pretty much just have a big serve. They're the type of guys who'd be winning grass and hard court slams outside of the big three. If it was clay you'd have the likes of Wawrinka, Thiem, Ferrer etc winning the clay court slams as it requires a complete game.

Federer's dominance faded hugely when Nadal and Djokovic arrived on the scene. He made hay when he was in a very weak era, 12 out of 18 slams from 03-07 then Nadal arrived and Djokovic shortly after and they just raised a bar to a level Federer struggled with.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 11:48:12 PM
Quote from: Capt Pat on October 11, 2020, 11:28:54 PM
Quote from: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 11:21:37 PM
Quote from: Capt Pat on October 11, 2020, 11:17:13 PM
Wimbledon is the big one isn't it? Roland Garros is simply not nearly as important except in Spain. Nadal is the greatest Spaniard

Wimbledon is the big one for anglophiles like yourself I'd say. It's the one for the big serving giraffes like Kevin Anderson, Richard Kraijcek, John Isner, Goran Ivanisevic, Mark Philllopoussis, Sampras etc where you just hammer aces all day long.

Roland Garros generally is the one for the mercurial European players with the craft and talent.

Federer though is not like a lot of the players you just named. He can do it all. He is exceptional.

Federer can do it all, he is exceptional but he is not as exceptional as either Nadal or Djokovic.

The surface that requires you to do it all best is clay, it's not something that is one dimensional and stems off a big serve.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on October 12, 2020, 12:07:05 AM
Quote from: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 11:45:36 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 11:30:32 PM
It's just one slam, it's no more difficult than the rest. Nadal is the best at that court, there's nothing else to take from that.

You keep claiming he's discriminated against as it's one surface for a slam. As is Wimbledon, which for me (personally) is the best.

You do get that it's a personal choice and your stats (please only use slam stats) show he's equal to Federer but has 13 on clay some on hard court and some on grass, he's brilliant. How he's got over injuries is impeccable and at 34 will be around for some more, as no one can beat him on clay, hes a great advantage to win more than the rest..

Grass and hard play a lot more similar to each other than either do to clay.

Clay is the most unique of the lot, a big serve is nowhere near the weapon it is on grass or hard that's why the one dimensional giraffes don't go well on clay. Your Andersons, Isners, Phillippousis, Ivanisevics, Cillics, Kraijceks, Raonics etc all struggle on clay because everything for those guys hinges off a serve and just bludgeoning the ball. That is why clay is so different, it requires a complete game, it warrants something more than a big serve, it's drop shots and lobs and a craft to winning points.

Grass and hard courts are primarily serve and volley. If you don't have a huge serve on grass and clay, you are at so much of a disadvantage.

So of course a rounded player will find it tougher on the tennis calendar than a big serving giraffe as 3/4 of the slams favour players that a have a huge serve whereas 1/4 of the slams would favour big players who don't have a big serve. Djokovic and Federer would have 5/6 RG titles each without Nadal there, they are all rounders like Nadal but Nadal is the greatest all rounder of them all which is why he dominates RG. You look at the finalists in Wimbledon and RG outside of the big 3 in recent years - Anderson, Raonic, Cillic etc - what have they in common. Guys who pretty much just have a big serve. They're the type of guys who'd be winning grass and hard court slams outside of the big three. If it was clay you'd have the likes of Wawrinka, Thiem, Ferrer etc winning the clay court slams as it requires a complete game.

Federer's dominance faded hugely when Nadal and Djokovic arrived on the scene. He made hay when he was in a very weak era, 12 out of 18 slams from 03-07 then Nadal arrived and Djokovic shortly after and they just raised a bar to a level Federer struggled with.

Is this your opinion or fact? Federer and Novak are also all rounders having wind all slams. In your opinion Federer only won them because people were poor, whereas Nadal won clay because people were great!!

Fed is 39, not likely to win another slam Nadal has plenty time to be the best overall winner of slams (13 of which came off one court) today, he was as usual in Paris, amazing. Enjoy his brilliance and stop looking for bigging him up, he knows his failings and more importantly knows his strengths, like Dublin playing out of Croke
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 12, 2020, 12:20:27 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 12, 2020, 12:07:05 AM
Quote from: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 11:45:36 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 11, 2020, 11:30:32 PM
It's just one slam, it's no more difficult than the rest. Nadal is the best at that court, there's nothing else to take from that.

You keep claiming he's discriminated against as it's one surface for a slam. As is Wimbledon, which for me (personally) is the best.

You do get that it's a personal choice and your stats (please only use slam stats) show he's equal to Federer but has 13 on clay some on hard court and some on grass, he's brilliant. How he's got over injuries is impeccable and at 34 will be around for some more, as no one can beat him on clay, hes a great advantage to win more than the rest..

Grass and hard play a lot more similar to each other than either do to clay.

Clay is the most unique of the lot, a big serve is nowhere near the weapon it is on grass or hard that's why the one dimensional giraffes don't go well on clay. Your Andersons, Isners, Phillippousis, Ivanisevics, Cillics, Kraijceks, Raonics etc all struggle on clay because everything for those guys hinges off a serve and just bludgeoning the ball. That is why clay is so different, it requires a complete game, it warrants something more than a big serve, it's drop shots and lobs and a craft to winning points.

Grass and hard courts are primarily serve and volley. If you don't have a huge serve on grass and clay, you are at so much of a disadvantage.

So of course a rounded player will find it tougher on the tennis calendar than a big serving giraffe as 3/4 of the slams favour players that a have a huge serve whereas 1/4 of the slams would favour big players who don't have a big serve. Djokovic and Federer would have 5/6 RG titles each without Nadal there, they are all rounders like Nadal but Nadal is the greatest all rounder of them all which is why he dominates RG. You look at the finalists in Wimbledon and RG outside of the big 3 in recent years - Anderson, Raonic, Cillic etc - what have they in common. Guys who pretty much just have a big serve. They're the type of guys who'd be winning grass and hard court slams outside of the big three. If it was clay you'd have the likes of Wawrinka, Thiem, Ferrer etc winning the clay court slams as it requires a complete game.

Federer's dominance faded hugely when Nadal and Djokovic arrived on the scene. He made hay when he was in a very weak era, 12 out of 18 slams from 03-07 then Nadal arrived and Djokovic shortly after and they just raised a bar to a level Federer struggled with.

Is this your opinion or fact? Federer and Novak are also all rounders having wind all slams. In your opinion Federer only won them because people were poor, whereas Nadal won clay because people were great!!

Fed is 39, not likely to win another slam Nadal has plenty time to be the best overall winner of slams (13 of which came off one court) today, he was as usual in Paris, amazing. Enjoy his brilliance and stop looking for bigging him up, he knows his failings and more importantly knows his strengths, like Dublin playing out of Croke

Federer's main rivals in his early years - Hewitt, Roddick, Nalbandian, Safin, Gonzalez etc - why did they all fall off the grid so young? They were all within a year or two or younger than Federer agewise but were completely washed up by their late to mid 20s. Why do you think that was?

Why were guys like Nadal, Djokovic, Murray, Wawrinka, Berdych, Ferrer, Tsonga, Del Potro et al all usurping them? I'd like to hear your opinion on this.

And once the new generation established themselves why did Federer then begin to lag well behind them?

Federer was in the prime of his career at that stage, particularly when you consider the age profile of other slam winners in the recent era when they won their first - Murray 25, Wawrinka 29, Cilic 26, Thiem 27. At this age these guys were winning their first slams the guys like Hewitt, Roddick, Nalbandian etc were all falling off the grid and plummeting down the rankings at the same age. What gives do you think?

If Federer had been around with a prime Sampras, he'd have likely won a lot less Wimbledons, US Opens and Aus Opens as would Sampras have. Federer's emergence could not have come at a better time, he rose during the post Sampras era and pre Nadal/Djokovic era and won 12 hard and grass slam titles in that 4-5 year period.





Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gawa316 on October 12, 2020, 01:08:09 AM
Quote from: Boycey on October 11, 2020, 08:54:23 PM
Greatest person of all-time IMHO  8)

Best recent post in this thread
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: GiveItToTheShooters on October 12, 2020, 06:54:24 AM
This scene in Billy Madison comes to mind ;D
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5hfYJsQAhl0
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on October 12, 2020, 07:53:01 AM
Quote from: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 04:57:47 PM
Arguably the greatest performance of all time as the greatest of all time secures his legacy beyond doubt as the greatest of all time.

Vamos Rafa!!!!
lol
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on October 13, 2020, 12:10:11 AM
Rafa is the greatest because he's left handed (a massive advantage due to the scoring system) and he has 2 forehands.

Not inconceivable he could win 20 roland garros  8)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 22, 2020, 11:25:28 PM
https://tennishead.net/we-spread-rumours-of-rafael-nadal-doping-because-he-was-too-good-says-french-star/

QuoteGilles Simon believes doping rumours were spread about Rafael Nadal as many were uncomfortable with the idea he could simply be better than Roger Federer.

There were allegations of a connection between Nadal and Eufemiano Fuentes, the doctor who was ultimately jailed for his part in a Spanish cycle doping scandal.

No evidence has ever been produced linking Fuentes to Nadal, though, who has always very successfully denied any rumours to the contrary.

However, Simon believes the rumours only existed to discredit opinions that Nadal could actually be a better tennis players than Federer rather than just a better athlete.

"It is difficult to conceive [for some] that, in terms of game, Rafael Nadal could be better than Roger Federer," Gilles Simon wrote in his new autobiography This Sport That Makes You Crazy

"We even spread rumours of doping on his account.

"Nadal does not fit into the framework. Moreover, I emphasize here that we never talk about the physique of Federer, who has little to envy that of Nadal.

"That he went five sets at 35 like what he did in Australia in 2017, it's extraordinary. But no one noted this point."

The last bit is the most interesting, for years there were a lot of completely unfounded rumours on Nadal and doping, spread by elements within the tennis community and inferred by some big names in tennis - all because he had the temerity to be better than Federer.

Nadal is an amazing athlete, you look at the pace he has when he has to chase down a ball. He was good enough to make it as a pro footballer by all accounts.

But he was mortal, the type of game he played caused him a lot of bother with his knees, caused him to miss 8 slams in his career with injuries, caught him to completely reinvent his game at the age of 30 because his body could longer sustain what he did at his youth. It completely flies in the face of those completely baseless allegations.

Then we have Federer, a guy who always seemingly relied on his superior skillset? Yet after 6 years without a slam, at the age of 35, after coming back from knee surgery a few months before, wins his first slam in his 30s at the age of 35 after outlasting 3 opponents in 5 set games and the same people who tried to defame Nadal didn't find it one bit surprising that Federer was able to accomplish that at his age.

The Fedheads are a strange breed. Milltown has been driven demented and has been stalking me around the forum since Nadal won no 20 over a fortnight back.

Fair play for Simon for coming out and saying it.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on October 22, 2020, 11:42:50 PM
Are you saying Fed is on drugs?

Winning 13 slams in one court not tell you something?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 23, 2020, 08:50:26 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 22, 2020, 11:42:50 PM
Are you saying Fed is on drugs?

Winning 13 slams in one court not tell you something?

I don't know but I would say it's far more likely that Federer was doping than Nadal but there was never a murmur about it which is odd given all the unsubstantiated innuendo about Nadal. Federer's 2017 return was very, very suspicious but any speculation was hused. Nadal's physical trajectory went in a normal way - he's not the same physically as he was in his mid 20s, Federer's defied logic, he was running more and spending longer on court in his mid 30s than he had been at any point of his career.

Winning 13 slams on one court tells me Nadal is the GOAT, he has won more slams at RG than he has dropped sets at it which is absolutely remarkable. Imagine we had 2 clay slams instead of 2 hard, what would the slam totals be then? All the records Federer has are dwindling away, Djokovic will soon catch him at weeks at no 1. The tennis season is weighted more to the big servebots than it is to the all rounders so it is testament to Nadal that he has come out on top.

Federer won 12 of his 20 slams in 18 attempts post Sampras and when Nadal and Djokovic were really only emerging teens. When the competition cranked up he was left behind.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on October 23, 2020, 09:26:57 AM
We don't have 2 clay courts for grand slams, so your point is irrelevant...That's like saying if there was another grass Slam Federer would be winning more

Fed, reduced his calendar and allowed him to focus more on the Slams rather than all the tours .

You say is more likely he did dope, have you evidence of this or is it just something you made up? 

Being fitter as you get older isn't a strange one, I was doing triathlon's in my early 40 and marathons in my late 40's, whereas in my 20's I wouldn't be as fit as I was in my later life, people just manage their fitness better.

Nadal has won nearly double his Slams on one court , his spread of slam's is poor, 1 Aussie 2 Grass and seems to like the USA  having won more there that the other Slams bar French Open..

He's very good and I'd say on a par with Federer, plus his head to head with him is far better also
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 23, 2020, 09:48:50 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 23, 2020, 09:26:57 AM
We don't have 2 clay courts for grand slams, so your point is irrelevant...That's like saying if there was another grass Slam Federer would be winning more

Fed, reduced his calendar and allowed him to focus more on the Slams rather than all the tours .

You say is more likely he did dope, have you evidence of this or is it just something you made up? 

Being fitter as you get older isn't a strange one, I was doing triathlon's in my early 40 and marathons in my late 40's, whereas in my 20's I wouldn't be as fit as I was in my later life, people just manage their fitness better.

Nadal has won nearly double his Slams on one court , his spread of slam's is poor, 1 Aussie 2 Grass and seems to like the USA  having won more there that the other Slams bar French Open..

He's very good and I'd say on a par with Federer, plus his head to head with him is far better also

We have two hard court slams, one grass and one clay. It's relevant that 75% of the tennis season is tilted towards big servers and 25% of it towards all rounders. There really should be a second clay slam in place of one of the hard courts and had we a more even split in the season then Nadal would likely be way ahead.

Nadal's spread of slams are also not poor. Only Djokovic, Federer and Sampras have won more slams on hard and grass courts than Nadal in the modern era.

His renaissance in 2017 was very strange though, 6 years without a slam and then suddenly he starts outlasting younger players in 5 setters at 35 years of age, after knee surgery. As Simon said, given the baseless innuendo put around about Nadal for years, it's strange that no scrutiny was placed on Federer here - instead he was lauded for it.

Federer didn't win a US Open since 08. He did 5IAR US Open titles in a weakish era (04-08), he did similar at Wimbledon (03-07). He was able to pick up a French Open and Wimbledon in 2009 when Rafa who was reigning champ had to succumb to knee injuries. Since then in over a decade he has added just 5 slams, 3 Australian Opens and 2 Wimbledons. Nadal has won the same amount of hard and grass slams in that time.




Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: BarryBreensBandage on October 23, 2020, 11:33:31 AM
With regards to doping, the most telling interview for me was Federer after Sharapova was banned for drug use.

He basically said that everyone in the game knew the dopers, and it was time for the big name dopers to be outed.
(Not the words of a guilty man imo).

The interview was before a match against Nadal; Federer said it was an honour to share the court with a true professional.

For me that day, Federer pointed the finger directly at Djokovic, whose form fell away drastically for a couple of years after Federer said this.
I often wonder did he lie low and come off the juice until things quietened down again.

The only other big name at the time was Murray, one person that can never be accused of doping! He always looked knackered at the end of the first set!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on October 23, 2020, 11:38:21 AM
Quote from: Angelo on October 23, 2020, 09:48:50 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 23, 2020, 09:26:57 AM
We don't have 2 clay courts for grand slams, so your point is irrelevant...That's like saying if there was another grass Slam Federer would be winning more

Fed, reduced his calendar and allowed him to focus more on the Slams rather than all the tours .

You say is more likely he did dope, have you evidence of this or is it just something you made up? 

Being fitter as you get older isn't a strange one, I was doing triathlon's in my early 40 and marathons in my late 40's, whereas in my 20's I wouldn't be as fit as I was in my later life, people just manage their fitness better.

Nadal has won nearly double his Slams on one court , his spread of slam's is poor, 1 Aussie 2 Grass and seems to like the USA  having won more there that the other Slams bar French Open..

He's very good and I'd say on a par with Federer, plus his head to head with him is far better also

We have two hard court slams, one grass and one clay. It's relevant that 75% of the tennis season is tilted towards big servers and 25% of it towards all rounders. There really should be a second clay slam in place of one of the hard courts and had we a more even split in the season then Nadal would likely be way ahead.

Nadal's spread of slams are also not poor. Only Djokovic, Federer and Sampras have won more slams on hard and grass courts than Nadal in the modern era.

His renaissance in 2017 was very strange though, 6 years without a slam and then suddenly he starts outlasting younger players in 5 setters at 35 years of age, after knee surgery. As Simon said, given the baseless innuendo put around about Nadal for years, it's strange that no scrutiny was placed on Federer here - instead he was lauded for it.

Federer didn't win a US Open since 08. He did 5IAR US Open titles in a weakish era (04-08), he did similar at Wimbledon (03-07). He was able to pick up a French Open and Wimbledon in 2009 when Rafa who was reigning champ had to succumb to knee injuries. Since then in over a decade he has added just 5 slams, 3 Australian Opens and 2 Wimbledons. Nadal has won the same amount of hard and grass slams in that time.

Feds the best, your weakish ear thing means nothing..

Did Rafa ever have knee surgery? Did he preform better? and lets say Rafa wins more titles as he gets older will people think he's on the juice?

Strange one
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 23, 2020, 02:50:27 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 23, 2020, 11:38:21 AM
Quote from: Angelo on October 23, 2020, 09:48:50 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on October 23, 2020, 09:26:57 AM
We don't have 2 clay courts for grand slams, so your point is irrelevant...That's like saying if there was another grass Slam Federer would be winning more

Fed, reduced his calendar and allowed him to focus more on the Slams rather than all the tours .

You say is more likely he did dope, have you evidence of this or is it just something you made up? 

Being fitter as you get older isn't a strange one, I was doing triathlon's in my early 40 and marathons in my late 40's, whereas in my 20's I wouldn't be as fit as I was in my later life, people just manage their fitness better.

Nadal has won nearly double his Slams on one court , his spread of slam's is poor, 1 Aussie 2 Grass and seems to like the USA  having won more there that the other Slams bar French Open..

He's very good and I'd say on a par with Federer, plus his head to head with him is far better also

We have two hard court slams, one grass and one clay. It's relevant that 75% of the tennis season is tilted towards big servers and 25% of it towards all rounders. There really should be a second clay slam in place of one of the hard courts and had we a more even split in the season then Nadal would likely be way ahead.

Nadal's spread of slams are also not poor. Only Djokovic, Federer and Sampras have won more slams on hard and grass courts than Nadal in the modern era.

His renaissance in 2017 was very strange though, 6 years without a slam and then suddenly he starts outlasting younger players in 5 setters at 35 years of age, after knee surgery. As Simon said, given the baseless innuendo put around about Nadal for years, it's strange that no scrutiny was placed on Federer here - instead he was lauded for it.

Federer didn't win a US Open since 08. He did 5IAR US Open titles in a weakish era (04-08), he did similar at Wimbledon (03-07). He was able to pick up a French Open and Wimbledon in 2009 when Rafa who was reigning champ had to succumb to knee injuries. Since then in over a decade he has added just 5 slams, 3 Australian Opens and 2 Wimbledons. Nadal has won the same amount of hard and grass slams in that time.

Feds the best, your weakish ear thing means nothing..

Did Rafa ever have knee surgery? Did he preform better? and lets say Rafa wins more titles as he gets older will people think he's on the juice?

Strange one

Nope, Rafa has suffered from tendonitis in his knees, rest and a course of anti-inflammatories are his usual treatment for this. It flares up primarily on hard courts which is why Nadal has always been very selective about the tournaments he chooses.

Rafa has changed his game, he can't do the time on court he did when he was 24/25. He doesn't win the long rallies anymore like he used to, he plays his points shorter, more aggressively. His serve has improved dramatically under Moya. The 2015/16 era for Nadal was him playing a game that his body was no longer capable of. Many people had wrote him off at that time but he readapted his game and certain elements of his game are better than they ever were before.

I don't think he has the game anymore to do it with Djokovic on a hard court, the prime Nadal could have gone toe to toe with Djokovic on hard courts but  he doesn't have the physical levels to match him anymore in that regard.

Nadal's time on court in slams in the past 4 seasons will tell you all you need to know about the difference in his game.

I'm not saying Federer is a doper but when you think of the narrative and innuendo out there, it makes much more logical sense to be more suspicious of Federer than Nadal and I think that's the point Simon was making in his book. People have used slurs and innuendo all through Nadal's career because he was bettering Federer and there was no way some elements could accept that Nadal was better.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on October 23, 2020, 02:59:42 PM
Quote from: BarryBreensBandage on October 23, 2020, 11:33:31 AM
With regards to doping, the most telling interview for me was Federer after Sharapova was banned for drug use.

He basically said that everyone in the game knew the dopers, and it was time for the big name dopers to be outed.
(Not the words of a guilty man imo).

The interview was before a match against Nadal; Federer said it was an honour to share the court with a true professional.

For me that day, Federer pointed the finger directly at Djokovic, whose form fell away drastically for a couple of years after Federer said this.
I often wonder did he lie low and come off the juice until things quietened down again.

The only other big name at the time was Murray, one person that can never be accused of doping! He always looked knackered at the end of the first set!

There is a lot of mutual respect between Federer and Nadal.

There is a lot of animosity between Federer and Djokovic, Nadal and Djokovic are not close but it doesn't seem to boil over into anything other than a professional rivalry. The dislike between Federer and Djokovic is a lot more transparent, I'm not sure of the reasoning behind it but both players don't hide it very well.

I'm not sure about Djokovic being a doper, he did have a massive upturn in his form when he uncovered he was celiac which again raised a lot of questions and innuendo. I think the real difference between Djokovic and his upturn was not physical but much more mental. The guy was always a machine but he did brought a kind of terminator mentality on court. The US Open win where he saved a number of match points against Federer, the Wimbledon final last year when Federer outplayed, had match points and he still hung on in there.

I would like to think all 3 are clean but I think you can sense which camp the innuendo and slurs come from and it's not the Djokovic and Nadal camps. I don't think it's driven from Federer or anyone in his team but more from his admirers and cheerleaders in the media and ex pros.

This was something Simon also mentioned in his book.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on November 22, 2020, 06:02:47 PM
Nadal on his way out! New breed coming in
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: GiveItToTheShooters on November 22, 2020, 09:40:11 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on November 22, 2020, 06:02:47 PM
Nadal on his way out! New breed coming in
He's a busted flush
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 06, 2021, 02:57:47 PM
Australian Open kicks off Monday.

I'd strongly tip Medvedev for this one, had a look at the draw and he has the best break of it.

Djokovic will likely have Zverev in the quarter and Thiem in the semi if it plays to ranking - that's going to be a tough ask for him to then beat Medvedev/Nadal/Tsitipas in the final.

Medvedev will likely have Nadal or Tsitsipas in the semi and I think his end of season form was superb. Will be great to see a major sports tournament with fans again.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on February 06, 2021, 09:17:39 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 06, 2021, 02:57:47 PM
Australian Open kicks off Monday.

I'd strongly tip Medvedev for this one, had a look at the draw and he has the best break of it.

Djokovic will likely have Zverev in the quarter and Thiem in the semi if it plays to ranking - that's going to be a tough ask for him to then beat Medvedev/Nadal/Tsitipas in the final.

Medvedev will likely have Nadal or Tsitsipas in the semi and I think his end of season form was superb. Will be great to see a major sports tournament with fans again.

I hope not, because I just cannot pronouce his name (racist!). So much easier to say Rafa, Fed or Jock.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 09, 2021, 11:10:12 AM
17 year old Spaniard Carlos Alvarez becomes the youngest mens player to win a slam match in 7 years on his slam debut.

The new Nadal?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 12, 2021, 03:28:11 PM
Djokovic is struggling and has a nightmare path from here on in. Overcame Fritz in 5 sets today and took him 4 to get past Tiafoe yesterday. Doesn't look anywhere near his best form.

He has Raonic in the R4, likely Zverev in the QF, probably Thiem after that and then one of Medvedev/Nadal/Tsitsipas after that.

Thiem also had a 5 setter today and came from 2 sets down to defeat Kyrgios. He has a tough game against Dimtirov next but should have the easiest quarter final of the lot.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 13, 2021, 12:23:17 PM
It's been a long, long time since a slam has been so up for grabs with all the big names still involved in the last 16.

(https://tfkdatatfk.s3.dualstack.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/original/3X/3/2/32c051e507cb115ef47fff5b910fd018ca7c7484.png)

I picked Medvedev at the start and I still back him but he had a big scare today coming through in 5 setters. Djokovic, Thiem, Tsitsipas and Medvedev have all had to survive 5 setters already.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 16, 2021, 07:43:06 PM
Novak through, closer he gets to semi final the better he becomes.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 16, 2021, 07:56:02 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 16, 2021, 07:43:06 PM
Novak through, closer he gets to semi final the better he becomes.

Plays a chap outside the top 100 in the semi and will have an extra days rest with his semi on Thursday and the other on Friday.

On the other side of the draw you have 4 of the top 7 now in a Battle Royale to make the final. Djokovic's name is as good on the trophy, had he Thiem in a semi now then it would take a lot out of him but he will cruise through the semi in around 1 hr 30m.

I'll back Medvedev to make the final but I think Djokovic will now beat him due to the recovery/preparation time he has until then.

6 of the last 8 Australian Opens have been won by the player who played their semi final on the Thursday.

Zverev has all the tools to win a slam but is a noted bottler and won't do it over the course of a 5 set slam until he sorts that out. He had the breaks of serve in the 1st, 3rd and 4th sets today but blew it when Djokovic upped it. He was 3/12 on break points, Djokovic 6/9.

Games tomorrow are interesting, Medvedev should come through Rublev but Rublev has been very impressive over the past 18 months.

The other game is more of a 50/50. Don't think Nadal has been playing too well but has yet to drop a set, has had an easy route up until now, his back issue seems to have cleared up though going by his comments. Tsitsipas is well rested after receiving a walkover yesterday but notably flaky. Either way I don't think Nadal can overcome a best of 5 against 3 of the best 5 players in the world on a hard court with a day's level recover in 5 days at age of 34. I think Medvedev is the only player capable of beating Djokovic left with the way things have panned out.

Djokovic hasn't even been playing well this tournament, the draw which looked very difficult on paper last year could not have worked out better now.

Crowds back tomorrow?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 16, 2021, 08:02:10 PM
Thought crowds be back for semis (Thursday)

Your pick is still in and I was going to back him from your report but think Nadal might just have enough experience to steer through.

Novak has had some injury issues also, watched Nadal v Norrie. Probably his toughest game and he won in three sets..

Novak going for 9 titles.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 16, 2021, 08:39:14 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 16, 2021, 08:02:10 PM
Thought crowds be back for semis (Thursday)

Your pick is still in and I was going to back him from your report but think Nadal might just have enough experience to steer through.

Novak has had some injury issues also, watched Nadal v Norrie. Probably his toughest game and he won in three sets..

Novak going for 9 titles.

Djokovic has a habit of overplaying his injuries. Saw the game with Raonic on Sunday and he was like an elastic band retrieving shots behind the baseline and him claiming he had torn his abdominal muscle - Berrettini on the other hand couldn't take the court yesterday with an abdominal strain. His form has been pretty patchy though but I just feel he will be so much fresher than his opponent in here now, whoever makes the final from here might have 10 sets under their belt.

It's been a strange tournament though, you'd feel they are probably all a good bit below their best with very little tennis played in advance and the likes of Nadal and Thiem not having their coaches travel with them. A real shame Thiem wasn't still in it, probably the most exciting player in the game now.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mouview on February 16, 2021, 11:49:13 PM
Where are we with the Ladies set-up? Who is going to be the next big thing once/if Serena ever does finally pack it in? Every time a neophyte wins a Slam, they seem to be laboured with the tag of next one to dominate the game. E.g., in the past few years, we've seen the likes of Naomi Osaka, Sofia Kenin, Angelique Kerber, Bianca Andreescu, Simona Halep, Ashleigh Barty, Iga Swiatek etc. all win Slams. Every time one of them win, they're touted as the next 'player to beat' in women's tennis. Even comparatively recent winners like Garbine Murguruza and Petra Kvitova seem like yesterday's girls. Will Eugenie Bouchard (mmm...) ever make the big breakthrough? Of these, maybe Swiatek or Halep will do best within the next 4-5 years. At least there's healthy competition there, unlike the big-3 dominated men's game.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 17, 2021, 12:01:42 PM
Tsitsipas and Nadal going to a decider.

Think that ends Nadal's chances in this tournament. Didn't finish the job out in the 3rd set tie break. Regardless of whether he comes through here, a 4 and a half hour marathon and Medvedev up next and then a well rested Djokovic is not going to happen for him at 34 years of age on a hard court.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mouview on February 17, 2021, 12:53:46 PM
H'on the Tippytoes !!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 17, 2021, 01:10:07 PM
Tsitsipas beats Nadal, Medvedev up next.

Djokovic has the advantage from here, a chap ranked at 114 in the world in the semi and an extra days rest over his opponent.

I'd put it as 50/50 if Medvedev can get past Tsitsipas without a battle. I'd give Tsitsipas a 30/70 chance against Djokovic.

You're going to see Djokovic and Nadal failing to reach a lot more finals from here on in.

If the likes of Zverev, Thiem, Medvedev and Tsitsipas now consistently start playing to their form then I don't see Nadal or Djokovic having it in the tank at this point of their careers to sustain matches against them from the quarters on. Djokovic had the luck of the draw this time around with Thiem falling in R4.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on February 17, 2021, 01:34:47 PM
The women's game is in a poor state to be honest and I'd like to see Serena equal Court's record, which she would have probably eclipsed by now if it wasn't for giving birth.

Djokovic is as fit as a fiddle and still moves brilliantly, he will be regularly appearing in finals and winning for the next 5 years or so.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 17, 2021, 01:36:29 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 17, 2021, 01:34:47 PM

Djokovic is as fit as a fiddle and still moves brilliantly, he will be regularly appearing in finals and winning for the next 5 years or so.

We will see, if it was Thiem he was facing tomorrow I'd put that probability at 50% and Medvedev is another 50/50.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 17, 2021, 02:39:49 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 17, 2021, 01:10:07 PM
Tsitsipas beats Nadal, Medvedev up next.

Djokovic has the advantage from here, a chap ranked at 114 in the world in the semi and an extra days rest over his opponent.

I'd put it as 50/50 if Medvedev can get past Tsitsipas without a battle. I'd give Tsitsipas a 30/70 chance against Djokovic.

You're going to see Djokovic and Nadal failing to reach a lot more finals from here on in.

If the likes of Zverev, Thiem, Medvedev and Tsitsipas now consistently start playing to their form then I don't see Nadal or Djokovic having it in the tank at this point of their careers to sustain matches against them from the quarters on. Djokovic had the luck of the draw this time around with Thiem falling in R4.

If Novak wins his semi and goes on to win the title, then the French open, Nadal will win as he has that in his locker every year bar injury, they aint doing bad, which means the younger ones are way off the mark
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on February 17, 2021, 02:42:53 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 17, 2021, 01:34:47 PM
The women's game is in a poor state to be honest and I'd like to see Serena equal Court's record, which she would have probably eclipsed by now if it wasn't for giving birth.

Djokovic is as fit as a fiddle and still moves brilliantly, he will be regularly appearing in finals and winning for the next 5 years or so.

Yes, and let's see more of Serena's outfit, lol.

Fair play to her - she puts up with a lot of facism.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 17, 2021, 05:56:24 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 17, 2021, 02:39:49 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 17, 2021, 01:10:07 PM
Tsitsipas beats Nadal, Medvedev up next.

Djokovic has the advantage from here, a chap ranked at 114 in the world in the semi and an extra days rest over his opponent.

I'd put it as 50/50 if Medvedev can get past Tsitsipas without a battle. I'd give Tsitsipas a 30/70 chance against Djokovic.

You're going to see Djokovic and Nadal failing to reach a lot more finals from here on in.

If the likes of Zverev, Thiem, Medvedev and Tsitsipas now consistently start playing to their form then I don't see Nadal or Djokovic having it in the tank at this point of their careers to sustain matches against them from the quarters on. Djokovic had the luck of the draw this time around with Thiem falling in R4.

If Novak wins his semi and goes on to win the title, then the French open, Nadal will win as he has that in his locker every year bar injury, they aint doing bad, which means the younger ones are way off the mark

Thiem is going to win a French Open soon. I think that at least 2 of the slams this year will be outside of Nadal/Federer/Djokovic. The problem for Djokovic is that the likes of Medvedev/Zverev/Tsitsipas are improving and all are at the their best on hard courts. Thiem is also a top class hard court player not actually probably better on clay though he has yet to win one.

These guys are going to start hitting QFs on a regular basis now which makes it tough on the older guard to survive the gruelling schedule at the business end of slams.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 17, 2021, 06:49:10 PM
Nail on head, older guys who have been winning slams since their early 20's or younger! Thiem  has won one last year aged 26, he's 27 now, he'll never match or get close to those three.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 18, 2021, 10:47:28 AM
Djokovic strolls through.

Serena has another failure at the business end - 4 final defeats, 2 SF defeats and 1 QF defeat since she won her last slam.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on February 18, 2021, 01:43:24 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 18, 2021, 10:47:28 AM
Djokovic strolls through.

Serena has another failure at the business end - 4 final defeats, 2 SF defeats and 1 QF defeat since she won her last slam.

Since she gave birth.  She was on some roll prior to that, hopefully she continues and gets the record.  My second favourite womens player of all time after Arantxa Sanchez Vicario.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 18, 2021, 02:46:53 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 18, 2021, 01:43:24 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 18, 2021, 10:47:28 AM
Djokovic strolls through.

Serena has another failure at the business end - 4 final defeats, 2 SF defeats and 1 QF defeat since she won her last slam.

Since she gave birth.  She was on some roll prior to that, hopefully she continues and gets the record.  My second favourite womens player of all time after Arantxa Sanchez Vicario.

I think Serena is now in the predicament that I suspect Djokovic and Nadal are coming towards. Can she win 2/3 matches against the top 5/6 players who are all 10 years or so her junior from the last 8 on. It's a difficult ask for her. Osaka on the heels of Halep is a massive ask for a 39 year old woman. I really don't see her winning another one without some major luck in the draw.

Was Djokovic playing Thiem today in the semi final, on the back of a match with Zverev and one of Tsitsipas and Medvedev to come I'd put him as the outsider but he has got the break of the ball this time around. Slams from here on for the big three are priceless. I think Djokovic needs to end the year on 19 to put him in the driving seat to take over.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on February 18, 2021, 03:12:11 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 18, 2021, 02:46:53 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 18, 2021, 01:43:24 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 18, 2021, 10:47:28 AM
Djokovic strolls through.

Serena has another failure at the business end - 4 final defeats, 2 SF defeats and 1 QF defeat since she won her last slam.

Since she gave birth.  She was on some roll prior to that, hopefully she continues and gets the record.  My second favourite womens player of all time after Arantxa Sanchez Vicario.

I think Serena is now in the predicament that I suspect Djokovic and Nadal are coming towards. Can she win 2/3 matches against the top 5/6 players who are all 10 years or so her junior from the last 8 on. It's a difficult ask for her. Osaka on the heels of Halep is a massive ask for a 39 year old woman. I really don't see her winning another one without some major luck in the draw.

Was Djokovic playing Thiem today in the semi final, on the back of a match with Zverev and one of Tsitsipas and Medvedev to come I'd put him as the outsider but he has got the break of the ball this time around. Slams from here on for the big three are priceless. I think Djokovic needs to end the year on 19 to put him in the driving seat to take over.

glad serena is out, horrible individual, unlike her sister who always behaves with class, williams outbursts and threatening behaviour on court through the years disqualify her imo from being mentioned in same breath as true greats king, court, graf, evert and navratilova
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 18, 2021, 03:28:39 PM
Whatever happened with Venus anyway? When she won her last slam in 2008 it was her 7th and Serena was on 8 at the time.

There's only about a year or two between them in terms of age gap, since then Serena has won 15 slams to zero from Venus who retired a year or two back.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: dec on February 18, 2021, 03:33:31 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 18, 2021, 03:28:39 PM
Whatever happened with Venus anyway? When she won her last slam in 2008 it was her 7th and Serena was on 8 at the time.

There's only about a year or two between them in terms of age gap, since then Serena has won 15 slams to zero from Venus who retired a year or two back.

By "retired a year or two back" do you mean "competed in this year's Australian open"?

https://www.espn.com/tennis/story/_/id/30871317/venus-williams-loses-sara-errani-injuring-ankle-australian-open
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 18, 2021, 03:55:10 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 18, 2021, 02:46:53 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 18, 2021, 01:43:24 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 18, 2021, 10:47:28 AM
Djokovic strolls through.

Serena has another failure at the business end - 4 final defeats, 2 SF defeats and 1 QF defeat since she won her last slam.

Since she gave birth.  She was on some roll prior to that, hopefully she continues and gets the record.  My second favourite womens player of all time after Arantxa Sanchez Vicario.

I think Serena is now in the predicament that I suspect Djokovic and Nadal are coming towards. Can she win 2/3 matches against the top 5/6 players who are all 10 years or so her junior from the last 8 on. It's a difficult ask for her. Osaka on the heels of Halep is a massive ask for a 39 year old woman. I really don't see her winning another one without some major luck in the draw.

Was Djokovic playing Thiem today in the semi final, on the back of a match with Zverev and one of Tsitsipas and Medvedev to come I'd put him as the outsider but he has got the break of the ball this time around. Slams from here on for the big three are priceless. I think Djokovic needs to end the year on 19 to put him in the driving seat to take over.

Would you stop writing off no1's? Ffs
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on February 18, 2021, 04:24:14 PM
Quote from: dec on February 18, 2021, 03:33:31 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 18, 2021, 03:28:39 PM
Whatever happened with Venus anyway? When she won her last slam in 2008 it was her 7th and Serena was on 8 at the time.

There's only about a year or two between them in terms of age gap, since then Serena has won 15 slams to zero from Venus who retired a year or two back.

By "retired a year or two back" do you mean "competed in this year's Australian open"?

https://www.espn.com/tennis/story/_/id/30871317/venus-williams-loses-sara-errani-injuring-ankle-australian-open

Cue 10 pages of arguments and disinformation
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 19, 2021, 10:10:18 AM
Medvedev storming through Tsitsipas at present.

The Greek is two sets down and will need to repeat what he did with Nadal on Wednesday.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mouview on February 19, 2021, 10:58:29 AM
Blown away. Med' seriously impressive.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on February 19, 2021, 11:33:01 AM
the new GOAT
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 19, 2021, 11:51:04 AM
Bookies have both at 9/10.

I have fancied Medvedev from the start and think he'll come through here.

He has beaten Djokovic in 3 of their last 4 meetings - though Djokovic has won their only meeting in a slam at the 2019 Australian Open - Medvedev has reached another level since then.

I think stylewise, Medvedev is going to be an absolute nightmare for Djokovic, you just can't throw him off. He will out-Djokovic Djokovic on keeping the ball in play and I think he will force the errors from the Serb and frustrate the life out of him.

On form you'd have to back Medvedev but Djokovic should be fresher and is the 8 time champ and world no 1.

I'm going Medvedev in 4.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on February 19, 2021, 11:57:00 AM
Quote from: Angelo on February 18, 2021, 03:28:39 PM
Whatever happened with Venus anyway? When she won her last slam in 2008 it was her 7th and Serena was on 8 at the time.

There's only about a year or two between them in terms of age gap, since then Serena has won 15 slams to zero from Venus who retired a year or two back.

Venus obviously burst onto the scene earlier but then Serena came out of nowhere and won the US open when she was very young. 

I always loved Venus too, never saw another woman cover the court like her when she was at her best, took a lot of work for opponents to get winners against her.  She did get diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disorder about a decade ago that has obviously been the main factor in her decline. 
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 19, 2021, 11:58:26 AM
It'll be his second Slam final so this isn't new to him..

He's ten year younger than Novak so his fitness levels can't be questioned, his stamina is on a par also.. be nip and tuck and a lot of sets going to the wire I'd say.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 20, 2021, 09:06:54 PM
Immensely looking forward to this match tomorrow.

Medvedev pointed out in his post match interview that the pressure is all on Djokovic and you'd have to agree. Look at Serena in the women's, the older you get the harder it gets and every missed opportunity at this stage grates. Djokovic would be frustrated with last year, what happened in the US Open with a weak field with a lot of players not participating with Covid was a huge error, then the way he flopped in Paris as he went heavily fancied.

The weight of pressure on the shoulders of Djokovic, Nadal and Federer (don't think Federer will ever play a slam final again) is huge if they get there. They know the window is closing and closing quickly. Djokovic is the one who can maintain his level for probably another 3 or 4 years but his problem is that all the emerging players right now excel on hard courts (Thiem probably slightly better on clay) - so it gets harder to make those finals year on year and going in against guys 10 years your junior is going to be tough on them.

Few records for tomorrow.

Djokovic's 9th Australian Open title tomorrow if he wins (50% of his slams), will move him one ahead of Federer's Wimbledon haul and out on his own at 2nd behind Nadal's 13 at RG.
Medvedev will stretch his record to 13-0 against top 10 players if he wins tomorrow
Medvedev will go to no 2 in the world if he wins tomorrow (the first player to reach the top 2 outside of Federer, Nadal, Djokovic and Murray in 791 weeks)

A Medvedev win is a seismic change for the tennis scenery tomorrow, I think it gives the confidence for the next gen to push on (I know Thiem won in the US but it did have a lot of players missing and Djokovic defaulting). Kind of like how Down's win in 91 was the catalyst for the likes of Derry and Donegal and how Armagh sparked Tyrone in 2002.

I think Djokovic's best hope of a slam probably comes at Wimbledon from here on in.

Medvedev going no 2 also has a huge negative impact for Djokovic with regard to RG. It would mean that his path would mean he would likely have to beat both Thiem and Nadal if he is to win at RG, which is a huge ask for him. For RG I will be backing Thiem or Nadal depending which one is on the opposite side of the draw to Djokovic.

4hr+ marathon battle tomorrow please.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on February 20, 2021, 09:21:42 PM
When is Medvedev's personality due to arrive? Only joking - the media sharks have not focused on him yet.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 20, 2021, 09:26:24 PM
Detailed report as usual. This is even Stevens, bookies have it that way also.

Looking forward to it, these three players will never be matched, the new generation won't ever get the slams these unreal players have reached

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on February 20, 2021, 11:36:56 PM
Not convinced on this 'new generation'. Thiem and Medvedev are hardly spring chickens and should have more victories than they have if they were as good as some make them out to be. Djokovic will win tomorrow.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 09:29:59 AM
First set Djokovic.

Bit of a steal, scrappy game from Medvedev at 6-5 and Djokovic breaks to take it 7-5.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 10:02:34 AM
Medvedev has disappointed hugely here.

Djokovic about to take a 2 set lead. Too many unforced errors and Djokovic serving so so well on his second serve.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 10:12:56 AM
Arguably the worst final display I've seen so far from Medvedev, riddled with errors from the second set onwards.

His head is gone and it will be over in under 20 minutes if he cannot find something here.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on February 21, 2021, 10:18:43 AM
As I said, Djokovic is going nowhere for a while yet. Too good and too fit for the rest of the so called pretenders.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 21, 2021, 10:36:09 AM
Novak is something else! Sent him a wee message there! It's all in your head!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 21, 2021, 10:43:42 AM
Novak senior hurling

Medvedev is Tyrone club football in Ulster
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 10:45:20 AM
That was very disappointing from Medvedev, didn't seem to recover from the second set break.



Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mouview on February 21, 2021, 11:01:18 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 21, 2021, 10:36:09 AM
Novak is something else! Sent him a wee message there! It's all in your head!

Djoko going to surpass Roger as the GOAT?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 21, 2021, 11:31:30 AM
Quote from: mouview on February 21, 2021, 11:01:18 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 21, 2021, 10:36:09 AM
Novak is something else! Sent him a wee message there! It's all in your head!

Djoko going to surpass Roger as the GOAT?

Well he's younger so based on that performance and remember he should be at 19 but was kicked out of the US open so there's no reason he won't get 20 minimum.

The kids, though in fairness they ain't kids anymore, can't beat the top three in final slams.. Medvedev would need to sort out his head first and maybe strengthen up a bit, bit gangaly 
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Nanderson on February 21, 2021, 12:25:18 PM
I always think if you had djokovic, federer and nadal playing at their peaks for 10 years. Novak would come away with at least 2 Grand slams a year, maybe even 3 in some years and he would maybe sneak the odd french open. Its Novaks athleticism that sets him apart from the other 2. Nadal is big and strong and Federer has probably more finesse with the raqut but novak just never knows when he's beaten. He seems to be more flexible/agile on the court and his fitness and recovery more importantly is next level. Out of all the tennis greats I would say only novak could win a slam going 5 sets in every match and still look fresh
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on February 21, 2021, 01:19:40 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on February 21, 2021, 12:25:18 PM
I always think if you had djokovic, federer and nadal playing at their peaks for 10 years. Novak would come away with at least 2 Grand slams a year, maybe even 3 in some years and he would maybe sneak the odd french open. Its Novaks athleticism that sets him apart from the other 2. Nadal is big and strong and Federer has probably more finesse with the raqut but novak just never knows when he's beaten. He seems to be more flexible/agile on the court and his fitness and recovery more importantly is next level. Out of all the tennis greats I would say only novak could win a slam going 5 sets in every match and still look fresh

Read that Novak was on court 4hrs more than Medvedev throughout this tournament, yet he still seemed to be the fresher man. I know he played the first semi, but it's not like Medvedev had a gruelling encounter in his semi.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 21, 2021, 01:46:14 PM
Novak is the best out there for fitness
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 02:25:13 PM
Quote from: Estimator on February 21, 2021, 01:19:40 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on February 21, 2021, 12:25:18 PM
I always think if you had djokovic, federer and nadal playing at their peaks for 10 years. Novak would come away with at least 2 Grand slams a year, maybe even 3 in some years and he would maybe sneak the odd french open. Its Novaks athleticism that sets him apart from the other 2. Nadal is big and strong and Federer has probably more finesse with the raqut but novak just never knows when he's beaten. He seems to be more flexible/agile on the court and his fitness and recovery more importantly is next level. Out of all the tennis greats I would say only novak could win a slam going 5 sets in every match and still look fresh

Read that Novak was on court 4hrs more than Medvedev throughout this tournament, yet he still seemed to be the fresher man. I know he played the first semi, but it's not like Medvedev had a gruelling encounter in his semi.

I think that is now 7 of 9 or something for players who played the semi first.

Djokovic turned it on today, his serve was outstanding but it should not be disregarded how disappointing Medvedev was.

Djokovic dismantled Nadal a few years ago in the Australian Open final and I think it was Djokovic at his best but I don't think he even needed that today, Medvedev threw the towel in after Djokovic broke back in the second.

Djokovic now 10/11 on his last 11 slam finals on hard/grass courts.

In the early 10s Nadal could push him to the pin of his collar on hard courts but Nadal has not been the same physical force probably since about 2014 and has completely remodeled his game.

Medvedev still has the tools for me to cause Djokovic nightmares but it was a complete mental implosion today.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on February 21, 2021, 06:12:43 PM
Quote from: mouview on February 21, 2021, 11:01:18 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 21, 2021, 10:36:09 AM
Novak is something else! Sent him a wee message there! It's all in your head!

Djoko going to surpass Roger as the GOAT?

He already is the Goat, most weeks at number 1 now and years left at the top to get maybe 25 slams
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 08:00:53 PM
Guys, it's clear as water Nadal is the greatest.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on February 21, 2021, 08:18:21 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 08:00:53 PM
Guys, it's clear as water Nadal is the greatest.

Greatest what?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 08:20:51 PM
Quote from: Orior on February 21, 2021, 08:18:21 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 08:00:53 PM
Guys, it's clear as water Nadal is the greatest.

Greatest what?

Tennis player of all time.

Arguably greatest sports person of all time.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Boycey on February 21, 2021, 08:47:01 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 08:20:51 PM
Quote from: Orior on February 21, 2021, 08:18:21 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 08:00:53 PM
Guys, it's clear as water Nadal is the greatest.

Greatest what?

Tennis player of all time.

Arguably greatest sports person of all time.

Ah hell damn it we'll go the whole hog, greatest ever human....

Before any of yis take to debating this with Angelo, Nadal is his specialist subject. He will produce loads of 'facts' and ignore all your points
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 08:48:57 PM
Quote from: Boycey on February 21, 2021, 08:47:01 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 08:20:51 PM
Quote from: Orior on February 21, 2021, 08:18:21 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 08:00:53 PM
Guys, it's clear as water Nadal is the greatest.

Greatest what?

Tennis player of all time.

Arguably greatest sports person of all time.

Ah hell damn it we'll go the whole hog, greatest ever human....

Before any of yis take to debating this with Angelo, Nadal is his specialist subject. He will produce loads of 'facts' and ignore all your points

Yes. I will produce facts and people like you who want to remain ignorant like you will make the mistake of trying to debate facts.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on February 21, 2021, 09:04:23 PM
There is no fact that puts Nadal as the greatest of all time though, it's purely subjective.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 09:08:17 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 21, 2021, 09:04:23 PM
There is no fact that puts Nadal as the greatest of all time though, it's purely subjective.

There are.

Quote from: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 08:49:40 PM
Not to mention Nadal is

- the only one of the big 3 to complete the golden slam
- the only one with multiple slam titles on every surface
- has a superior head to head record with the other two in slam meetings (10-6 against Djokovic and 10-4 Federer)
- reached 20 in 19 less slams than Federer
- 5x Davis Cup Winner


He's been written off time and time again, overcame multiple injury setbacks and now has 6 slams in his 30s. He has completely adjusted his game in the past 5 years, he's far more aggressive now, his serve is much more of a weapon. Who would have seen this after the nightmare run he had in 2015/16?

Not only is he the greatest tennis player of all time, there's a great case to be made for him being the greatest sportsman of all time.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 21, 2021, 10:09:28 PM
Nadal is level on Slams with Roger, having won 13 on one specific tournament he's the GOAT of the French open.

Is he the better player? That depends on the type of player you like.

The main facts are simple. 20 each is easy to work out. If Nadal goes on and wins again in France he'll be the GOAT. But at the minute you can't split them no matter what that clampit posts.

65% of Nadal's slams have been in one surface.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on February 21, 2021, 10:21:02 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 09:08:17 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 21, 2021, 09:04:23 PM
There is no fact that puts Nadal as the greatest of all time though, it's purely subjective.

There are.

Quote from: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 08:49:40 PM
Not to mention Nadal is

- the only one of the big 3 to complete the golden slam
- the only one with multiple slam titles on every surface
- has a superior head to head record with the other two in slam meetings (10-6 against Djokovic and 10-4 Federer)
- reached 20 in 19 less slams than Federer
- 5x Davis Cup Winner


He's been written off time and time again, overcame multiple injury setbacks and now has 6 slams in his 30s. He has completely adjusted his game in the past 5 years, he's far more aggressive now, his serve is much more of a weapon. Who would have seen this after the nightmare run he had in 2015/16?

Not only is he the greatest tennis player of all time, there's a great case to be made for him being the greatest sportsman of all time.


None of those are a specific fact that cements him as the greatest ever - there are as many statistics out there that will have the other 2 ahead of him.  Additionally, there will still be an argument as to who is the greatest irrelevant of who wins the most major titles.  Its a debate and as I said, purely subjective.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: GiveItToTheShooters on February 21, 2021, 10:46:20 PM
Nadal can't be the best sports person of all time, those spots are reserved for Pavel nedved and Shevchenko  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 11:16:26 AM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 21, 2021, 10:21:02 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 09:08:17 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 21, 2021, 09:04:23 PM
There is no fact that puts Nadal as the greatest of all time though, it's purely subjective.

There are.

Quote from: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 08:49:40 PM
Not to mention Nadal is

- the only one of the big 3 to complete the golden slam
- the only one with multiple slam titles on every surface
- has a superior head to head record with the other two in slam meetings (10-6 against Djokovic and 10-4 Federer)
- reached 20 in 19 less slams than Federer
- 5x Davis Cup Winner


He's been written off time and time again, overcame multiple injury setbacks and now has 6 slams in his 30s. He has completely adjusted his game in the past 5 years, he's far more aggressive now, his serve is much more of a weapon. Who would have seen this after the nightmare run he had in 2015/16?

Not only is he the greatest tennis player of all time, there's a great case to be made for him being the greatest sportsman of all time.


None of those are a specific fact that cements him as the greatest ever - there are as many statistics out there that will have the other 2 ahead of him.  Additionally, there will still be an argument as to who is the greatest irrelevant of who wins the most major titles.  Its a debate and as I said, purely subjective.

If you want to base whose the best of your favourite then it's subjective.

If you want to look at the stats and data then it's Nadal.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 12:54:59 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 11:16:26 AM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 21, 2021, 10:21:02 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 09:08:17 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 21, 2021, 09:04:23 PM
There is no fact that puts Nadal as the greatest of all time though, it's purely subjective.

There are.

Quote from: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 08:49:40 PM
Not to mention Nadal is

- the only one of the big 3 to complete the golden slam
- the only one with multiple slam titles on every surface
- has a superior head to head record with the other two in slam meetings (10-6 against Djokovic and 10-4 Federer)
- reached 20 in 19 less slams than Federer
- 5x Davis Cup Winner


He's been written off time and time again, overcame multiple injury setbacks and now has 6 slams in his 30s. He has completely adjusted his game in the past 5 years, he's far more aggressive now, his serve is much more of a weapon. Who would have seen this after the nightmare run he had in 2015/16?

Not only is he the greatest tennis player of all time, there's a great case to be made for him being the greatest sportsman of all time.


None of those are a specific fact that cements him as the greatest ever - there are as many statistics out there that will have the other 2 ahead of him.  Additionally, there will still be an argument as to who is the greatest irrelevant of who wins the most major titles.  Its a debate and as I said, purely subjective.

If you want to base whose the best of your favourite then it's subjective.

If you want to look at the stats and data then it's Nadal.

It doesn't, it shows 20 Slams each for Nadal and Roger, it shows 65% of Nadal's slams on on one court. Its says currently its tied. It's show Novak has been NO.1 the longest followed by Roger then Nadal. these are facts, not preferences
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 01:09:18 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 12:54:59 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 11:16:26 AM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 21, 2021, 10:21:02 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 09:08:17 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 21, 2021, 09:04:23 PM
There is no fact that puts Nadal as the greatest of all time though, it's purely subjective.

There are.

Quote from: Angelo on October 11, 2020, 08:49:40 PM
Not to mention Nadal is

- the only one of the big 3 to complete the golden slam
- the only one with multiple slam titles on every surface
- has a superior head to head record with the other two in slam meetings (10-6 against Djokovic and 10-4 Federer)
- reached 20 in 19 less slams than Federer
- 5x Davis Cup Winner


He's been written off time and time again, overcame multiple injury setbacks and now has 6 slams in his 30s. He has completely adjusted his game in the past 5 years, he's far more aggressive now, his serve is much more of a weapon. Who would have seen this after the nightmare run he had in 2015/16?

Not only is he the greatest tennis player of all time, there's a great case to be made for him being the greatest sportsman of all time.


None of those are a specific fact that cements him as the greatest ever - there are as many statistics out there that will have the other 2 ahead of him.  Additionally, there will still be an argument as to who is the greatest irrelevant of who wins the most major titles.  Its a debate and as I said, purely subjective.

If you want to base whose the best of your favourite then it's subjective.

If you want to look at the stats and data then it's Nadal.

It doesn't, it shows 20 Slams each for Nadal and Roger, it shows 65% of Nadal's slams on on one court. Its says currently its tied. It's show Novak has been NO.1 the longest followed by Roger then Nadal. these are facts, not preferences

I've covered all this before.

The data says Nadal is the best.

The ATP season discriminates against clay court players as there is only one clay court slam a year compared to 2 hard and one grass which both play every similar and all hinge off a big serve.

Nadal has a leading head to head with Djokovic and Federer in slam meetings.

Has the golden slam, 5 Davis Cup, best win% at slams.

Nadal is 20/61 in slams
Federer 20/79 in slams
Djokovic 18/63 in slams

Nadal is the one player who has had to reinvent his game because of his injury bother and he still came out on top.

The data is not there to argue against Nadal being the greatest.

If people remain clear and objective and follow the data then it can only be Nadal.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: johnnycool on February 22, 2021, 01:29:16 PM
Quote from: Boycey on February 21, 2021, 08:47:01 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 08:20:51 PM
Quote from: Orior on February 21, 2021, 08:18:21 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 21, 2021, 08:00:53 PM
Guys, it's clear as water Nadal is the greatest.

Greatest what?

Tennis player of all time.

Arguably greatest sports person of all time.

Ah hell damn it we'll go the whole hog, greatest ever human....

Before any of yis take to debating this with Angelo, Nadal is his specialist subject. He will produce loads of 'facts' and ignore all your points

Does he know the name of Nadals doctor also beloved to a lot of cycling "greats"?

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 01:32:40 PM
Slam's, One Grass, two hard court and one Clay.. If Nadal can't play on hard court, 65% of his wins show he's a better clay court player, should they change it just for him? Brilliant

When he started out the tours were in place and they had the courts that were available, a good tennis player will develop his game, he won't divide all his attentions on to one surface, if he does he's a limited player, That's like saying the best golfer in the world will win 65% of his tours on Links courses and may pop up every now and again and win on the other surfaces...

On top means 21 slams, at the minute they are equal, he should get by that come the French open though, then he'll be the best.

86: Career singles titles for Nadal, the fourth-most in the Open era.

103: Career titles for Federer, the second-most, behind Jimmy Connors' 109.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 01:35:39 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 01:32:40 PM
Slam's, One Grass, two hard court and one Clay.. If Nadal can't play on hard court, 65% of his wins show he's a better clay court player, should they change it just for him? Brilliant

When he started out the tours were in place and they had the courts that were available, a good tennis player will develop his game, he won't divide all his attentions on to one surface, if he does he's a limited player, That's like saying the best golfer in the world will win 65% of his tours on Links courses and may pop up every now and again and win on the other surfaces...

On top means 21 slams, at the minute they are equal, he should get by that come the French open though, then he'll be the best.

86: Career singles titles for Nadal, the fourth-most in the Open era.

103: Career titles for Federer, the second-most, behind Jimmy Connors' 109.

You're focusing a lot there on lesser tournaments.

Does anyone consider Jimmy Connors the greatest player of his generation nevermind the greatest of all time? No.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 01:38:35 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 01:35:39 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 01:32:40 PM
Slam's, One Grass, two hard court and one Clay.. If Nadal can't play on hard court, 65% of his wins show he's a better clay court player, should they change it just for him? Brilliant

When he started out the tours were in place and they had the courts that were available, a good tennis player will develop his game, he won't divide all his attentions on to one surface, if he does he's a limited player, That's like saying the best golfer in the world will win 65% of his tours on Links courses and may pop up every now and again and win on the other surfaces...

On top means 21 slams, at the minute they are equal, he should get by that come the French open though, then he'll be the best.

86: Career singles titles for Nadal, the fourth-most in the Open era.

103: Career titles for Federer, the second-most, behind Jimmy Connors' 109.

You're focusing a lot there on lesser tournaments.

Does anyone consider Jimmy Connors the greatest player of his generation nevermind the greatest of all time? No.

Lesser tournaments? Ok we'll focus on Slams... 20 each! equal

But lets forget about the other lesser titles as they don't show anything

Jimmy Connors was a legend growing up, he was never liked too much by his fellow professionals but a damn good player
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on February 22, 2021, 01:47:00 PM
1. Novak
2. Nadal
3. Fed

Simples  :)

Nadal has also had the massive advantage of being a right hander playing left handed which because of the scoring system favours southpaws way more

It also gives him 2 forehands effectively
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 01:47:20 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 01:38:35 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 01:35:39 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 01:32:40 PM
Slam's, One Grass, two hard court and one Clay.. If Nadal can't play on hard court, 65% of his wins show he's a better clay court player, should they change it just for him? Brilliant

When he started out the tours were in place and they had the courts that were available, a good tennis player will develop his game, he won't divide all his attentions on to one surface, if he does he's a limited player, That's like saying the best golfer in the world will win 65% of his tours on Links courses and may pop up every now and again and win on the other surfaces...

On top means 21 slams, at the minute they are equal, he should get by that come the French open though, then he'll be the best.

86: Career singles titles for Nadal, the fourth-most in the Open era.

103: Career titles for Federer, the second-most, behind Jimmy Connors' 109.

You're focusing a lot there on lesser tournaments.

Does anyone consider Jimmy Connors the greatest player of his generation nevermind the greatest of all time? No.

Lesser tournaments? Ok we'll focus on Slams... 20 each! equal

But lets forget about the other lesser titles as they don't show anything

Jimmy Connors was a legend growing up, he was never liked too much by his fellow professionals but a damn good player

20 each and Nadal reached his no 20 far quicker than Federer did and dominates their head to head record (20/61 v 20/79)
Has 5 Davis Cup wins.
The Golden slam.
Won multiple slams on all surfaces, has beaten Federer on all surfaces on all slams.
Has the highest win % at slams
Also has these factors on Djokovic too.

And he has all those factors in his favour:
DESPITE the fact he has been savaged by injuries and had to reinvent his game due to that.
DESPITE the fact that the tennis calendar unfairly discriminates against clay court players.

Unfortunately when you trust the data, it will only point to Nadal as the GOAT.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 01:48:32 PM
Quote from: Mikhail Prokhorov on February 22, 2021, 01:47:00 PM
1. Novak
2. Nadal
3. Fed

Simples  :)

Nadal has also had the massive advantage of being a right hander playing left handed which because of the scoring system favours southpaws way more

Is that not natural talent that has him like that?

Djokovic still has a losing record to Nadal at slams and is heavily favoured with 50% of slams on his favourite surface.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on February 22, 2021, 01:53:50 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 01:47:20 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 01:38:35 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 01:35:39 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 01:32:40 PM
Slam's, One Grass, two hard court and one Clay.. If Nadal can't play on hard court, 65% of his wins show he's a better clay court player, should they change it just for him? Brilliant

When he started out the tours were in place and they had the courts that were available, a good tennis player will develop his game, he won't divide all his attentions on to one surface, if he does he's a limited player, That's like saying the best golfer in the world will win 65% of his tours on Links courses and may pop up every now and again and win on the other surfaces...

On top means 21 slams, at the minute they are equal, he should get by that come the French open though, then he'll be the best.

86: Career singles titles for Nadal, the fourth-most in the Open era.

103: Career titles for Federer, the second-most, behind Jimmy Connors' 109.

You're focusing a lot there on lesser tournaments.

Does anyone consider Jimmy Connors the greatest player of his generation nevermind the greatest of all time? No.

Lesser tournaments? Ok we'll focus on Slams... 20 each! equal

But lets forget about the other lesser titles as they don't show anything

Jimmy Connors was a legend growing up, he was never liked too much by his fellow professionals but a damn good player

20 each and Nadal reached his no 20 far quicker than Federer did and dominates their head to head record (20/61 v 20/79)
Has 5 Davis Cup wins.
The Golden slam.
Won multiple slams on all surfaces, has beaten Federer on all surfaces on all slams.
Has the highest win % at slams
Also has these factors on Djokovic too.

And he has all those factors in his favour:
DESPITE the fact he has been savaged by injuries and had to reinvent his game due to that.
DESPITE the fact that the tennis calendar unfairly discriminates against clay court players.

Unfortunately when you trust the data, it will only point to Nadal as the GOAT.


Don't think they've met in the US Open.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 02:01:27 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 01:47:20 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 01:38:35 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 01:35:39 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 01:32:40 PM
Slam's, One Grass, two hard court and one Clay.. If Nadal can't play on hard court, 65% of his wins show he's a better clay court player, should they change it just for him? Brilliant

When he started out the tours were in place and they had the courts that were available, a good tennis player will develop his game, he won't divide all his attentions on to one surface, if he does he's a limited player, That's like saying the best golfer in the world will win 65% of his tours on Links courses and may pop up every now and again and win on the other surfaces...

On top means 21 slams, at the minute they are equal, he should get by that come the French open though, then he'll be the best.

86: Career singles titles for Nadal, the fourth-most in the Open era.

103: Career titles for Federer, the second-most, behind Jimmy Connors' 109.

You're focusing a lot there on lesser tournaments.

Does anyone consider Jimmy Connors the greatest player of his generation nevermind the greatest of all time? No.

Lesser tournaments? Ok we'll focus on Slams... 20 each! equal

But lets forget about the other lesser titles as they don't show anything

Jimmy Connors was a legend growing up, he was never liked too much by his fellow professionals but a damn good player

20 each and Nadal reached his no 20 far quicker than Federer did and dominates their head to head record (20/61 v 20/79)
Has 5 Davis Cup wins.
The Golden slam.
Won multiple slams on all surfaces, has beaten Federer on all surfaces on all slams.
Has the highest win % at slams
Also has these factors on Djokovic too.

And he has all those factors in his favour:
DESPITE the fact he has been savaged by injuries and had to reinvent his game due to that.
DESPITE the fact that the tennis calendar unfairly discriminates against clay court players.

Unfortunately when you trust the data, it will only point to Nadal as the GOAT.

Before you go off on a rant, I think they are equal and there won't be an outright winner until the dust settles on their career's.

More career wins in all tournaments and surfaces, it's Fed by a good distance, and he's managed the same Slams and a better spread of slams.

Nadal, 65% of his slams are on clay, is that not worrying?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 02:03:14 PM
Quote from: Estimator on February 22, 2021, 01:53:50 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 01:47:20 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 01:38:35 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 01:35:39 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 01:32:40 PM
Slam's, One Grass, two hard court and one Clay.. If Nadal can't play on hard court, 65% of his wins show he's a better clay court player, should they change it just for him? Brilliant

When he started out the tours were in place and they had the courts that were available, a good tennis player will develop his game, he won't divide all his attentions on to one surface, if he does he's a limited player, That's like saying the best golfer in the world will win 65% of his tours on Links courses and may pop up every now and again and win on the other surfaces...

On top means 21 slams, at the minute they are equal, he should get by that come the French open though, then he'll be the best.

86: Career singles titles for Nadal, the fourth-most in the Open era.

103: Career titles for Federer, the second-most, behind Jimmy Connors' 109.

You're focusing a lot there on lesser tournaments.

Does anyone consider Jimmy Connors the greatest player of his generation nevermind the greatest of all time? No.

Lesser tournaments? Ok we'll focus on Slams... 20 each! equal

But lets forget about the other lesser titles as they don't show anything

Jimmy Connors was a legend growing up, he was never liked too much by his fellow professionals but a damn good player

20 each and Nadal reached his no 20 far quicker than Federer did and dominates their head to head record (20/61 v 20/79)
Has 5 Davis Cup wins.
The Golden slam.
Won multiple slams on all surfaces, has beaten Federer on all surfaces on all slams.
Has the highest win % at slams
Also has these factors on Djokovic too.

And he has all those factors in his favour:
DESPITE the fact he has been savaged by injuries and had to reinvent his game due to that.
DESPITE the fact that the tennis calendar unfairly discriminates against clay court players.

Unfortunately when you trust the data, it will only point to Nadal as the GOAT.


Don't think they've met in the US Open.

Beaten him on all surfaces in slams though as I've said - grass, clay and hard. Federer has never beaten Nadal on clay in a slam.

Nadal leads 3-1 on hard and 6-0 on clay. Federer is 3-1 on grass.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 02:08:59 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 02:01:27 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 01:47:20 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 01:38:35 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 01:35:39 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 01:32:40 PM
Slam's, One Grass, two hard court and one Clay.. If Nadal can't play on hard court, 65% of his wins show he's a better clay court player, should they change it just for him? Brilliant

When he started out the tours were in place and they had the courts that were available, a good tennis player will develop his game, he won't divide all his attentions on to one surface, if he does he's a limited player, That's like saying the best golfer in the world will win 65% of his tours on Links courses and may pop up every now and again and win on the other surfaces...

On top means 21 slams, at the minute they are equal, he should get by that come the French open though, then he'll be the best.

86: Career singles titles for Nadal, the fourth-most in the Open era.

103: Career titles for Federer, the second-most, behind Jimmy Connors' 109.

You're focusing a lot there on lesser tournaments.

Does anyone consider Jimmy Connors the greatest player of his generation nevermind the greatest of all time? No.

Lesser tournaments? Ok we'll focus on Slams... 20 each! equal

But lets forget about the other lesser titles as they don't show anything

Jimmy Connors was a legend growing up, he was never liked too much by his fellow professionals but a damn good player

20 each and Nadal reached his no 20 far quicker than Federer did and dominates their head to head record (20/61 v 20/79)
Has 5 Davis Cup wins.
The Golden slam.
Won multiple slams on all surfaces, has beaten Federer on all surfaces on all slams.
Has the highest win % at slams
Also has these factors on Djokovic too.

And he has all those factors in his favour:
DESPITE the fact he has been savaged by injuries and had to reinvent his game due to that.
DESPITE the fact that the tennis calendar unfairly discriminates against clay court players.

Unfortunately when you trust the data, it will only point to Nadal as the GOAT.

Before you go off on a rant, I think they are equal and there won't be an outright winner until the dust settles on their career's.

More career wins in all tournaments and surfaces, it's Fed by a good distance, and he's managed the same Slams and a better spread of slams.

Nadal, 65% of his slams are on clay, is that not worrying?

Nope, that is all the more impressive.

The dominance Nadal has on clay will never be repeated in the sport, ever. Now the big thing this is, clay courters are discriminated by the calendar. There should be two clay court slams a year. Grass and hard play an awful lot more similar than either do to clay so it's clear certain players are advantaged by the calendar.

Drop each players' weakest hard court slam and swap it for a clay slam.

Nadal would then move to 32 slams, dropping his one Australian Open for 13 additional clay titles.
Djokovic would move back to 16 slams, dropping his three US Opens for 1 additional clay title.
Federer would move back to 16 slams dropping his five US Opens for 1 additional clay title.

So if clay courters were not discriminated against that is likely how it would fare out.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 02:14:36 PM
So your argument is that the Clay court specialist is being discriminated against? FFS it is what it is and has been for so long, longer that Nadal has been about ffs. he knew this when he was starting out so continued to discriminate himself from these other surfaces!

Enough on the surfaces now


Fed, 103 career wins to Nadal's 86 career wins in tennis tournaments. that's not one or two of a difference

If the GOAT competition was for the best on Clay one winner, if it was for grass, one winner and if it was for Auusie Open one winner..

Its how you play in all tournaments over all surfaces.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 02:21:32 PM
The surfaces argument is invalid, as mentioned here that is the way the game has been structured from before he started playing so that can't be used as an excuse.

The slams are recognised as the unit of measurement with regards to the greatest, therefore as it stands its tied between two.  If Djokovic exceeds their total then he is the best.  Additionally, he has a winning record against both Nadal and Federer.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 02:24:29 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 02:21:32 PM
The surfaces argument is invalid, as mentioned here that is the way the game has been structured from before he started playing so that can't be used as an excuse.

The slams are recognised as the unit of measurement with regards to the greatest, therefore as it stands its tied between two.  If Djokovic exceeds their total then he is the best.  Additionally, he has a winning record against both Nadal and Federer.

It's entirely valid.

25% of the season is for clay courters and 75% is for hard/grass courters. It discriminates against clay courters.

Djokovic has a losing record against Nadal in slams. Nadal leads 10-6 overall. Nadal lead 7-1 at RG and 2-1 at the US Open. Djokovic leads 2-1 at Wimbledon and 2-0 at Australia.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 02:32:01 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 02:24:29 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 02:21:32 PM
The surfaces argument is invalid, as mentioned here that is the way the game has been structured from before he started playing so that can't be used as an excuse.

The slams are recognised as the unit of measurement with regards to the greatest, therefore as it stands its tied between two.  If Djokovic exceeds their total then he is the best.  Additionally, he has a winning record against both Nadal and Federer.

It's entirely valid.

25% of the season is for clay courters and 75% is for hard/grass courters. It discriminates against clay courters.

Djokovic has a losing record against Nadal in slams. Nadal leads 10-6 overall. Nadal lead 7-1 at RG and 2-1 at the US Open. Djokovic leads 2-1 at Wimbledon and 2-0 at Australia.


But Djokovic has a winning record against Nadal overall.  They have played a lot more than 16 times and the overall head to head cant be discounted - its as you say, a fact.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 02:42:00 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 02:24:29 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 02:21:32 PM
The surfaces argument is invalid, as mentioned here that is the way the game has been structured from before he started playing so that can't be used as an excuse.

The slams are recognised as the unit of measurement with regards to the greatest, therefore as it stands its tied between two.  If Djokovic exceeds their total then he is the best.  Additionally, he has a winning record against both Nadal and Federer.

It's entirely valid.

25% of the season is for clay courters and 75% is for hard/grass courters. It discriminates against clay courters.

Djokovic has a losing record against Nadal in slams. Nadal leads 10-6 overall. Nadal lead 7-1 at RG and 2-1 at the US Open. Djokovic leads 2-1 at Wimbledon and 2-0 at Australia.

You are either fucked up in the head or just dumb. The courts are the courts. They have been like that well before Nadal was born.

So Nadal didn't bother perfecting his tennis ability on other court surfaces as well, his fault. No one else's
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on February 22, 2021, 03:52:05 PM
GOAT: Novak Djokovic closes Grand Slam gap on Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer - https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/tennis/56146799
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 04:21:52 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 02:32:01 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 02:24:29 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 02:21:32 PM
The surfaces argument is invalid, as mentioned here that is the way the game has been structured from before he started playing so that can't be used as an excuse.

The slams are recognised as the unit of measurement with regards to the greatest, therefore as it stands its tied between two.  If Djokovic exceeds their total then he is the best.  Additionally, he has a winning record against both Nadal and Federer.

It's entirely valid.

25% of the season is for clay courters and 75% is for hard/grass courters. It discriminates against clay courters.

Djokovic has a losing record against Nadal in slams. Nadal leads 10-6 overall. Nadal lead 7-1 at RG and 2-1 at the US Open. Djokovic leads 2-1 at Wimbledon and 2-0 at Australia.


But Djokovic has a winning record against Nadal overall.  They have played a lot more than 16 times and the overall head to head cant be discounted - its as you say, a fact.

But as you said "The slams are recognised as the unit of measurement with regards to the greatest"

So why would you then ignore slams when it comes to head to head record?

Nadal clearly has a very commanding lead over Djokovic in their H2H meetings in slams at 10-6. It's 10-4 v Federer. 7-2 v Murray.

He leads all his contemporaries in slam stats. He is the GOAT, the data says so.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 04:23:10 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 02:42:00 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 02:24:29 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 02:21:32 PM
The surfaces argument is invalid, as mentioned here that is the way the game has been structured from before he started playing so that can't be used as an excuse.

The slams are recognised as the unit of measurement with regards to the greatest, therefore as it stands its tied between two.  If Djokovic exceeds their total then he is the best.  Additionally, he has a winning record against both Nadal and Federer.

It's entirely valid.

25% of the season is for clay courters and 75% is for hard/grass courters. It discriminates against clay courters.

Djokovic has a losing record against Nadal in slams. Nadal leads 10-6 overall. Nadal lead 7-1 at RG and 2-1 at the US Open. Djokovic leads 2-1 at Wimbledon and 2-0 at Australia.

You are either fucked up in the head or just dumb. The courts are the courts. They have been like that well before Nadal was born.

So Nadal didn't bother perfecting his tennis ability on other court surfaces as well, his fault. No one else's

He did a much better job at it as he is the only player with multiple slams on all surfaces.

And you seem to be getting a little bit angry at dealing with the facts.

When you follow the facts you end up with Nadal as the GOAT.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 04:28:57 PM
You can move goal posts all day long, 20 slams each is the only stat that really matters!

I can't change your preferences nor do I want to, until the dusts settled on their collective careers then you can show me the data.

65% of his slams are on one court, one tournament. That stat is impressive
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 04:34:02 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 04:28:57 PM
You can move goal posts all day long, 20 slams each is the only stat that really matters!

I can't change your preferences nor do I want to, until the dusts settled on their collective careers then you can show me the data.

65% of his slams are on one court, one tournament. That stat is impressive

And despite all the barriers for Nadal, he has still come out on top. True greatness.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 04:37:44 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 04:34:02 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 04:28:57 PM
You can move goal posts all day long, 20 slams each is the only stat that really matters!

I can't change your preferences nor do I want to, until the dusts settled on their collective careers then you can show me the data.

65% of his slams are on one court, one tournament. That stat is impressive

And despite all the barriers for Nadal, he has still come out on top. True greatness.

Injuries are a fact of sport, he obviously had the wrong people around him to control his physically.

Could have won more only for a poor team around him
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 04:41:19 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 04:37:44 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 04:34:02 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 04:28:57 PM
You can move goal posts all day long, 20 slams each is the only stat that really matters!

I can't change your preferences nor do I want to, until the dusts settled on their collective careers then you can show me the data.

65% of his slams are on one court, one tournament. That stat is impressive

And despite all the barriers for Nadal, he has still come out on top. True greatness.

Injuries are a fact of sport, he obviously had the wrong people around him to control his physically.

Could have won more only for a poor team around him

And the stacking of the tennis calendar to suit big serving giraffes and the one dimensional aspect of the faster courts.

An additional clay court slam should be on the horizon
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 04:43:10 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 04:41:19 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 04:37:44 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 04:34:02 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 04:28:57 PM
You can move goal posts all day long, 20 slams each is the only stat that really matters!

I can't change your preferences nor do I want to, until the dusts settled on their collective careers then you can show me the data.

65% of his slams are on one court, one tournament. That stat is impressive

And despite all the barriers for Nadal, he has still come out on top. True greatness.

Injuries are a fact of sport, he obviously had the wrong people around him to control his physically.

Could have won more only for a poor team around him

And the stacking of the tennis calendar to suit big serving giraffes and the one dimensional aspect of the faster courts.

An additional clay court slam should be on the horizon

What size was that up and coming tennis player you said would beat Novak?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 04:48:59 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 04:43:10 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 04:41:19 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 04:37:44 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 04:34:02 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 04:28:57 PM
You can move goal posts all day long, 20 slams each is the only stat that really matters!

I can't change your preferences nor do I want to, until the dusts settled on their collective careers then you can show me the data.

65% of his slams are on one court, one tournament. That stat is impressive

And despite all the barriers for Nadal, he has still come out on top. True greatness.

Injuries are a fact of sport, he obviously had the wrong people around him to control his physically.

Could have won more only for a poor team around him

And the stacking of the tennis calendar to suit big serving giraffes and the one dimensional aspect of the faster courts.

An additional clay court slam should be on the horizon

What size was that up and coming tennis player you said would beat Novak?

6ft6

Ironically he has never won a game at Roland Garros but has been in two slam finals on hard courts.

Giraffes don't fare well on clay.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 05:28:13 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 04:21:52 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 02:32:01 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 02:24:29 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 02:21:32 PM
The surfaces argument is invalid, as mentioned here that is the way the game has been structured from before he started playing so that can't be used as an excuse.

The slams are recognised as the unit of measurement with regards to the greatest, therefore as it stands its tied between two.  If Djokovic exceeds their total then he is the best.  Additionally, he has a winning record against both Nadal and Federer.

It's entirely valid.

25% of the season is for clay courters and 75% is for hard/grass courters. It discriminates against clay courters.

Djokovic has a losing record against Nadal in slams. Nadal leads 10-6 overall. Nadal lead 7-1 at RG and 2-1 at the US Open. Djokovic leads 2-1 at Wimbledon and 2-0 at Australia.


But Djokovic has a winning record against Nadal overall.  They have played a lot more than 16 times and the overall head to head cant be discounted - its as you say, a fact.

But as you said "The slams are recognised as the unit of measurement with regards to the greatest"

So why would you then ignore slams when it comes to head to head record?

Nadal clearly has a very commanding lead over Djokovic in their H2H meetings in slams at 10-6. It's 10-4 v Federer. 7-2 v Murray.

He leads all his contemporaries in slam stats. He is the GOAT, the data says so.

I didn't ignore the slams in the head to heads, the slam figures are included. 
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 08:43:13 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 05:28:13 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 04:21:52 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 02:32:01 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 02:24:29 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 02:21:32 PM
The surfaces argument is invalid, as mentioned here that is the way the game has been structured from before he started playing so that can't be used as an excuse.

The slams are recognised as the unit of measurement with regards to the greatest, therefore as it stands its tied between two.  If Djokovic exceeds their total then he is the best.  Additionally, he has a winning record against both Nadal and Federer.

It's entirely valid.

25% of the season is for clay courters and 75% is for hard/grass courters. It discriminates against clay courters.

Djokovic has a losing record against Nadal in slams. Nadal leads 10-6 overall. Nadal lead 7-1 at RG and 2-1 at the US Open. Djokovic leads 2-1 at Wimbledon and 2-0 at Australia.


But Djokovic has a winning record against Nadal overall.  They have played a lot more than 16 times and the overall head to head cant be discounted - its as you say, a fact.

But as you said "The slams are recognised as the unit of measurement with regards to the greatest"

So why would you then ignore slams when it comes to head to head record?

Nadal clearly has a very commanding lead over Djokovic in their H2H meetings in slams at 10-6. It's 10-4 v Federer. 7-2 v Murray.

He leads all his contemporaries in slam stats. He is the GOAT, the data says so.

I didn't ignore the slams in the head to heads, the slam figures are included.

You did, you didn't want to look at slam head to heads. You wanted to look at overall h2h, slams are what matter though as you said.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 22, 2021, 08:46:48 PM
Selecting a GOAT is not based on head to heads 🤦‍♀️

If you want to do head to head competition, knock yourself out
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on February 23, 2021, 09:46:34 AM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 08:43:13 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 05:28:13 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 04:21:52 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 02:32:01 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 02:24:29 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 02:21:32 PM
The surfaces argument is invalid, as mentioned here that is the way the game has been structured from before he started playing so that can't be used as an excuse.

The slams are recognised as the unit of measurement with regards to the greatest, therefore as it stands its tied between two.  If Djokovic exceeds their total then he is the best.  Additionally, he has a winning record against both Nadal and Federer.

It's entirely valid.

25% of the season is for clay courters and 75% is for hard/grass courters. It discriminates against clay courters.

Djokovic has a losing record against Nadal in slams. Nadal leads 10-6 overall. Nadal lead 7-1 at RG and 2-1 at the US Open. Djokovic leads 2-1 at Wimbledon and 2-0 at Australia.


But Djokovic has a winning record against Nadal overall.  They have played a lot more than 16 times and the overall head to head cant be discounted - its as you say, a fact.

But as you said "The slams are recognised as the unit of measurement with regards to the greatest"

So why would you then ignore slams when it comes to head to head record?

Nadal clearly has a very commanding lead over Djokovic in their H2H meetings in slams at 10-6. It's 10-4 v Federer. 7-2 v Murray.

He leads all his contemporaries in slam stats. He is the GOAT, the data says so.

I didn't ignore the slams in the head to heads, the slam figures are included.

You did, you didn't want to look at slam head to heads. You wanted to look at overall h2h, slams are what matter though as you said.

I said that slams are seen as the unit of currency when categorising the greatest player of all time, which seems to be generally accepted.  The only reason I got into head to head talk was due to you referencing Nadal leading Djokovic on head to heads in slams - I have never really heard anybody focus on head to heads in that perspective before, usually its just on the overall record.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 09:49:38 AM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 23, 2021, 09:46:34 AM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 08:43:13 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 05:28:13 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 04:21:52 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 02:32:01 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 22, 2021, 02:24:29 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on February 22, 2021, 02:21:32 PM
The surfaces argument is invalid, as mentioned here that is the way the game has been structured from before he started playing so that can't be used as an excuse.

The slams are recognised as the unit of measurement with regards to the greatest, therefore as it stands its tied between two.  If Djokovic exceeds their total then he is the best.  Additionally, he has a winning record against both Nadal and Federer.

It's entirely valid.

25% of the season is for clay courters and 75% is for hard/grass courters. It discriminates against clay courters.

Djokovic has a losing record against Nadal in slams. Nadal leads 10-6 overall. Nadal lead 7-1 at RG and 2-1 at the US Open. Djokovic leads 2-1 at Wimbledon and 2-0 at Australia.


But Djokovic has a winning record against Nadal overall.  They have played a lot more than 16 times and the overall head to head cant be discounted - its as you say, a fact.

But as you said "The slams are recognised as the unit of measurement with regards to the greatest"

So why would you then ignore slams when it comes to head to head record?

Nadal clearly has a very commanding lead over Djokovic in their H2H meetings in slams at 10-6. It's 10-4 v Federer. 7-2 v Murray.

He leads all his contemporaries in slam stats. He is the GOAT, the data says so.

I didn't ignore the slams in the head to heads, the slam figures are included.

You did, you didn't want to look at slam head to heads. You wanted to look at overall h2h, slams are what matter though as you said.

I said that slams are seen as the unit of currency when categorising the greatest player of all time, which seems to be generally accepted.  The only reason I got into head to head talk was due to you referencing Nadal leading Djokovic on head to heads in slams - I have never really heard anybody focus on head to heads in that perspective before, usually its just on the overall record.

Well surely if slams are the only currency in greatest of all time debate then their head to head records should only be considered on the basis of their slam encounters. It's contradictory otherwise.

For the record:

Nadal leads Djokovic 10-6 in slam head to head
Nadal leads Federer 10-4 in slam head to head
Djokovic leads Federer 11-6 in slam head to head
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 09:52:13 AM
Head to heads,  is that your measure?  On those head to heads how many has Nadal won on clay? How many has he won on grass and hard court?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on February 23, 2021, 11:01:36 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 09:52:13 AM
Head to heads,  is that your measure?  On those head to heads how many has Nadal won on clay? How many has he won on grass and hard court?
Nadal - Federer
A total of 14 matches have been in Grand Slams with Nadal leading 10–4. Nadal leads 6–0 at the French Open and 3–1 at the Australian Open, while Federer leads 3–1 at Wimbledon. The two have yet to meet in the US Open.

Nadal - Novak
The two have faced each other 56 times with Djokovic leading 29–27. Djokovic leads 15–12 in finals. Of these matches, 16 have been in Grand Slams with Nadal leading 10–6. Nadal leads 7–1 at the French Open and 2–1 at the US Open, while Djokovic leads 2–0 at the Australian Open and 2–1 at Wimbledon.

Nadal is clearly the GOAT.. on Clay!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 11:05:46 AM
Quote from: Estimator on February 23, 2021, 11:01:36 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 09:52:13 AM
Head to heads,  is that your measure?  On those head to heads how many has Nadal won on clay? How many has he won on grass and hard court?
Nadal - Federer
A total of 14 matches have been in Grand Slams with Nadal leading 10–4. Nadal leads 6–0 at the French Open and 3–1 at the Australian Open, while Federer leads 3–1 at Wimbledon. The two have yet to meet in the US Open.

Nadal - Novak
The two have faced each other 56 times with Djokovic leading 29–27. Djokovic leads 15–12 in finals. Of these matches, 16 have been in Grand Slams with Nadal leading 10–6. Nadal leads 7–1 at the French Open and 2–1 at the US Open, while Djokovic leads 2–0 at the Australian Open and 2–1 at Wimbledon.

Nadal is clearly the GOAT.. on Clay!

I wanted Angelo to get that info, I already have it in front of me. the timing suggest that he knows this!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 11:06:23 AM
Quote from: Estimator on February 23, 2021, 11:01:36 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 09:52:13 AM
Head to heads,  is that your measure?  On those head to heads how many has Nadal won on clay? How many has he won on grass and hard court?
Nadal - Federer
A total of 14 matches have been in Grand Slams with Nadal leading 10–4. Nadal leads 6–0 at the French Open and 3–1 at the Australian Open, while Federer leads 3–1 at Wimbledon. The two have yet to meet in the US Open.

Nadal - Novak
The two have faced each other 56 times with Djokovic leading 29–27. Djokovic leads 15–12 in finals. Of these matches, 16 have been in Grand Slams with Nadal leading 10–6. Nadal leads 7–1 at the French Open and 2–1 at the US Open, while Djokovic leads 2–0 at the Australian Open and 2–1 at Wimbledon.

Nadal is clearly the GOAT.. on Clay!

It's funny though.

Djokovic is the greatest hard court player we have ever seen yet Nadal has more US Open titles than him and a better head to head record at the event too.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 11:44:02 AM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 11:06:23 AM
Quote from: Estimator on February 23, 2021, 11:01:36 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 09:52:13 AM
Head to heads,  is that your measure?  On those head to heads how many has Nadal won on clay? How many has he won on grass and hard court?
Nadal - Federer
A total of 14 matches have been in Grand Slams with Nadal leading 10–4. Nadal leads 6–0 at the French Open and 3–1 at the Australian Open, while Federer leads 3–1 at Wimbledon. The two have yet to meet in the US Open.

Nadal - Novak
The two have faced each other 56 times with Djokovic leading 29–27. Djokovic leads 15–12 in finals. Of these matches, 16 have been in Grand Slams with Nadal leading 10–6. Nadal leads 7–1 at the French Open and 2–1 at the US Open, while Djokovic leads 2–0 at the Australian Open and 2–1 at Wimbledon.

Nadal is clearly the GOAT.. on Clay!

It's funny though.

Djokovic is the greatest hard court player we have ever seen yet Nadal has more US Open titles than him and a better head to head record at the event too.

Who said he was the greatest? Is it his record on that surface? Or opinions?

What's Nadal's record v Novak at the Aussie Open?

Just accept that at the minute, while these lads are still playing and winning, that there won't be a GOAT until someone gets to the top of their tree and retires
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on February 23, 2021, 12:14:30 PM
Can the difference between Nadal's US Open and AUS Open victories be explained? Both hard court surfaces. Yet only one victory in Australia!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 12:31:38 PM
Quote from: Estimator on February 23, 2021, 12:14:30 PM
Can the difference between Nadal's US Open and AUS Open victories be explained? Both hard court surfaces. Yet only one victory in Australia!

Bad luck?

Nadal has been in 5 Aus Open finals, lost 4 of them. He's been in 5 US Open finals, won 4 of them.

The Wawrinka loss will hurt most as he suffered a back injury in the first set and would most certainly have won it otherwise.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:15:38 PM
In terms of slams final appearances

Federer 31 finals, 20 slams

Australia 7/6
France 5/1
Wimbledon 12/8
US 7/5

Nadal 28 finals, 20 slams
Australia 5/1
France 13/13
Wimbledon 5/2
US 5/4

Djokovic 28 finals, 18 slams
Australia 9/9
France 5/1
Wimbledon 6/5
US 8/3

The most interesting aspect of that is Federer, he's only been in 4 more hard court finals than Nadal. But has won 6 more hard court slams than Nadal - what you need to take into account here is when Federer won these and who he won these slams against.

Of his 11 slam wins on hard courts these were his final opponents:

Safin
Hewitt
Agassi (mid 30s)
Bagdathis
Roddick
Gonzalez
Murray x2
Nadal
Cilic
Djokovic (being 20)

Wimbledon is a similar enough tale:

Nadal x2 (Nadal being 20 and 21 for these two)
Murray
Philipoussis
Roddick x3
Cilic

In contrast to that Nadal would have won 3 of his 5 hard court slams v Federer and Djokovic in finals, 1 of his 2 grass court slams against Federer and 7 of his 13  clay court slams against Federer and Djokovic.






Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:16:13 PM
Quote from: Estimator on February 23, 2021, 12:14:30 PM
Can the difference between Nadal's US Open and AUS Open victories be explained? Both hard court surfaces. Yet only one victory in Australia!

With the Aussie open being down under its prevents left handed tennis players from winning
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:21:50 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:15:38 PM
In terms of slams final appearances

Federer 31 finals, 20 slams

Australia 7/6
France 5/1
Wimbledon 12/8
US 7/5

Nadal 28 finals, 20 slams
Australia 5/1
France 13/13
Wimbledon 5/2
US 5/4

Djokovic 28 finals, 18 slams
Australia 9/9
France 5/1
Wimbledon 6/5
US 8/3

The most interesting aspect of that is Federer, he's only been in 4 more hard court finals than Nadal. But has won 6 more hard court slams than Nadal - what you need to take into account here is when Federer won these and who he won these slams against.

Of his 11 slam wins on hard courts these were his final opponents:

Safin
Hewitt
Agassi (mid 30s)
Bagdathis
Roddick
Gonzalez
Murray x2
Nadal
Cilic
Djokovic (being 20)

Wimbledon is a similar enough tale:

Nadal x2 (Nadal being 20 and 21 for these two)
Murray
Philipoussis
Roddick x3
Cilic

In contrast to that Nadal would have won 3 of his 5 hard court slams v Federer and Djokovic in finals, 1 of his 2 grass court slams against Federer and 7 of his 13  clay court slams against Federer and Djokovic.

It makes no difference to who he beat in the final or get to the final, same Nadal or Novak. And Nadal 'would have' WTF does that mean, christ the night.

If your granny had balls and all that. you'll find away to prop up your point good for you, it doesn't take away the 20 slams each by Roger and Nadal

As for the age, Roger is 39, he'll have played longer so he'll be in more slams than Nadal, (age 34) when Nadal is 39 he'll have played in more finals that Roger
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:22:59 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:21:50 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:15:38 PM
In terms of slams final appearances

Federer 31 finals, 20 slams

Australia 7/6
France 5/1
Wimbledon 12/8
US 7/5

Nadal 28 finals, 20 slams
Australia 5/1
France 13/13
Wimbledon 5/2
US 5/4

Djokovic 28 finals, 18 slams
Australia 9/9
France 5/1
Wimbledon 6/5
US 8/3

The most interesting aspect of that is Federer, he's only been in 4 more hard court finals than Nadal. But has won 6 more hard court slams than Nadal - what you need to take into account here is when Federer won these and who he won these slams against.

Of his 11 slam wins on hard courts these were his final opponents:

Safin
Hewitt
Agassi (mid 30s)
Bagdathis
Roddick
Gonzalez
Murray x2
Nadal
Cilic
Djokovic (being 20)

Wimbledon is a similar enough tale:

Nadal x2 (Nadal being 20 and 21 for these two)
Murray
Philipoussis
Roddick x3
Cilic

In contrast to that Nadal would have won 3 of his 5 hard court slams v Federer and Djokovic in finals, 1 of his 2 grass court slams against Federer and 7 of his 13  clay court slams against Federer and Djokovic.

It makes no difference to who he beat in the final or get to the final, same Nadal or Novak. And Nadal 'would have' WTF does that mean, christ the night.

If your granny had balls and all that. you'll find away to prop up your point good for you, it doesn't take away the 20 slams each by Roger and Nadal

As for the age, Roger is 39, he'll have played longer so he'll be in more slams than Nadal, (age 34) when Nadal is 39 he'll have played in more finals that Roger

Context makes a huge difference but of course you don't want to focus on the data.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:31:56 PM
What context? 'would have'?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:33:26 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:31:56 PM
What context? 'would have'?

The context is that Federer made hay in a weak era and it's hard to make any reasoned argument that he would have 20 slams at this point of his career if he was born 4 or 5 years later.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:43:48 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:33:26 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:31:56 PM
What context? 'would have'?

The context is that Federer made hay in a weak era and it's hard to make any reasoned argument that he would have 20 slams at this point of his career if he was born 4 or 5 years later.

Your opinion, that's fine. He wasn't born 4 or five years later, so that is another opinion. He'd have been younger and possibly fitter or as fit as Nadal and Novak.

With that reasoning he could have had more than 20
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:50:10 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:43:48 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:33:26 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:31:56 PM
What context? 'would have'?

The context is that Federer made hay in a weak era and it's hard to make any reasoned argument that he would have 20 slams at this point of his career if he was born 4 or 5 years later.

Your opinion, that's fine. He wasn't born 4 or five years later, so that is another opinion. He'd have been younger and possibly fitter or as fit as Nadal and Novak.

With that reasoning he could have had more than 20

Not an opinion, it's based on facts. Hewitt/Roddick/Nalbandian were top 4 players in the early stages of Federer's career. Hewitt and Roddick had slams won at the age of 20/21. Nalbandian and Roddick were younger than Federer, Hewitt about a year older. All these players were more or less washed up and has beens in the mid 20s when the likes of Nadal, Djokovic, Murray, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Wawrinka etc entered the scene.

Federer himself struggled really badly from 2007 onwards.


Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:58:42 PM
We'll take the 2006 Australian Open as an indication of what Federer was up against in his earlier years.

This was the field for what was his 7th slam at the time.

(https://i.ibb.co/fFK34fr/Capture.png)

Not too many big names there. A grand total of 7 slams won by players seeded 2-32.

32nd seed Carlos Moya won a solitary French Open 8 years prior to that.
15th seed Juan Carlos Ferrero won a solitary French Open 3 years prior to that.
10th seed Thomas Johansson won a solitary Australian Open 4 years prior to that.
8th seed Gaston Gaudio won a solitary French Open 2 years prior to that.
3rd seed Lleyton Hewitt had tow slams, the last of which was won 4 years prior to that.
2nd seed Roddick had won a solitary US Open 3 years prior to that.


Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Rich Ricci on February 23, 2021, 02:06:15 PM
I see people weighing Nadal down because he has dominated one surface whereas I'd be inclined to mark the other 2 down on their inability to win on clay. To me the GOAT should be the greatest all-rounder and the fact that Federer has won once on clay in a year where a pomp Nadal was injured is a major slight on his career.

Probably a fair enough point on Federer having it easy in his early years compared to peak Nadal/Djokovic. Jesus they had to beat each other as well as Andy Murray who in any other era would have at least 10.

I think Djokovic will probably end up with most overall but would need another French to cement it imo.

Nadal can probably be criticised for his performances on grass. Hasn't made the final since 2011 and has been beaten by lesser players a few times. He was unlucky to be injured in 2009 because he was far and away the best player 08-10 and and would probably have won Wimbledon that year.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 02:51:33 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:50:10 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:43:48 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:33:26 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:31:56 PM
What context? 'would have'?

The context is that Federer made hay in a weak era and it's hard to make any reasoned argument that he would have 20 slams at this point of his career if he was born 4 or 5 years later.

Your opinion, that's fine. He wasn't born 4 or five years later, so that is another opinion. He'd have been younger and possibly fitter or as fit as Nadal and Novak.

With that reasoning he could have had more than 20

Not an opinion, it's based on facts. Hewitt/Roddick/Nalbandian were top 4 players in the early stages of Federer's career. Hewitt and Roddick had slams won at the age of 20/21. Nalbandian and Roddick were younger than Federer, Hewitt about a year older. All these players were more or less washed up and has beens in the mid 20s when the likes of Nadal, Djokovic, Murray, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Wawrinka etc entered the scene.

Federer himself struggled really badly from 2007 onwards.

No, the fact is he won 20 slams, who he beat were slam winners, not chumps..

Berdych never won a slam, Del Potro has won one, Tsonga none.....
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 03:09:34 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 02:51:33 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:50:10 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:43:48 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:33:26 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:31:56 PM
What context? 'would have'?

The context is that Federer made hay in a weak era and it's hard to make any reasoned argument that he would have 20 slams at this point of his career if he was born 4 or 5 years later.

Your opinion, that's fine. He wasn't born 4 or five years later, so that is another opinion. He'd have been younger and possibly fitter or as fit as Nadal and Novak.

With that reasoning he could have had more than 20

Not an opinion, it's based on facts. Hewitt/Roddick/Nalbandian were top 4 players in the early stages of Federer's career. Hewitt and Roddick had slams won at the age of 20/21. Nalbandian and Roddick were younger than Federer, Hewitt about a year older. All these players were more or less washed up and has beens in the mid 20s when the likes of Nadal, Djokovic, Murray, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Wawrinka etc entered the scene.

Federer himself struggled really badly from 2007 onwards.

No, the fact is he won 20 slams, who he beat were slam winners, not chumps..

Berdych never won a slam, Del Potro has won one, Tsonga none.....

Yet they did left the likes of Hewitt, Roddick and Nalbandian as washed up has beens in their mid 20s and those guys were Federer's main rivals when he was clearing up slams 03-07.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 04:11:57 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 03:09:34 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 02:51:33 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:50:10 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:43:48 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:33:26 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:31:56 PM
What context? 'would have'?

The context is that Federer made hay in a weak era and it's hard to make any reasoned argument that he would have 20 slams at this point of his career if he was born 4 or 5 years later.

Your opinion, that's fine. He wasn't born 4 or five years later, so that is another opinion. He'd have been younger and possibly fitter or as fit as Nadal and Novak.

With that reasoning he could have had more than 20

Not an opinion, it's based on facts. Hewitt/Roddick/Nalbandian were top 4 players in the early stages of Federer's career. Hewitt and Roddick had slams won at the age of 20/21. Nalbandian and Roddick were younger than Federer, Hewitt about a year older. All these players were more or less washed up and has beens in the mid 20s when the likes of Nadal, Djokovic, Murray, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Wawrinka etc entered the scene.

Federer himself struggled really badly from 2007 onwards.

No, the fact is he won 20 slams, who he beat were slam winners, not chumps..

Berdych never won a slam, Del Potro has won one, Tsonga none.....

Yet they did left the likes of Hewitt, Roddick and Nalbandian as washed up has beens in their mid 20s and those guys were Federer's main rivals when he was clearing up slams 03-07.

So slam winners are rubbish?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 04:22:01 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 04:11:57 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 03:09:34 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 02:51:33 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:50:10 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:43:48 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:33:26 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:31:56 PM
What context? 'would have'?

The context is that Federer made hay in a weak era and it's hard to make any reasoned argument that he would have 20 slams at this point of his career if he was born 4 or 5 years later.

Your opinion, that's fine. He wasn't born 4 or five years later, so that is another opinion. He'd have been younger and possibly fitter or as fit as Nadal and Novak.

With that reasoning he could have had more than 20

Not an opinion, it's based on facts. Hewitt/Roddick/Nalbandian were top 4 players in the early stages of Federer's career. Hewitt and Roddick had slams won at the age of 20/21. Nalbandian and Roddick were younger than Federer, Hewitt about a year older. All these players were more or less washed up and has beens in the mid 20s when the likes of Nadal, Djokovic, Murray, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Wawrinka etc entered the scene.

Federer himself struggled really badly from 2007 onwards.

No, the fact is he won 20 slams, who he beat were slam winners, not chumps..

Berdych never won a slam, Del Potro has won one, Tsonga none.....

Yet they did left the likes of Hewitt, Roddick and Nalbandian as washed up has beens in their mid 20s and those guys were Federer's main rivals when he was clearing up slams 03-07.

So slam winners are rubbish?

Well it seems to be clear tennis was at a low ebb from around the time Sampras and Agassi wound down to before Nadal and Djokovic established themselves on the scene. Federer won 12 of his 12 slams in that 4.25 year period. After that they began to dry up very quickly.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on February 23, 2021, 04:47:23 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 04:22:01 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 04:11:57 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 03:09:34 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 02:51:33 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:50:10 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:43:48 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:33:26 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:31:56 PM
What context? 'would have'?

The context is that Federer made hay in a weak era and it's hard to make any reasoned argument that he would have 20 slams at this point of his career if he was born 4 or 5 years later.

Your opinion, that's fine. He wasn't born 4 or five years later, so that is another opinion. He'd have been younger and possibly fitter or as fit as Nadal and Novak.

With that reasoning he could have had more than 20

Not an opinion, it's based on facts. Hewitt/Roddick/Nalbandian were top 4 players in the early stages of Federer's career. Hewitt and Roddick had slams won at the age of 20/21. Nalbandian and Roddick were younger than Federer, Hewitt about a year older. All these players were more or less washed up and has beens in the mid 20s when the likes of Nadal, Djokovic, Murray, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Wawrinka etc entered the scene.

Federer himself struggled really badly from 2007 onwards.

No, the fact is he won 20 slams, who he beat were slam winners, not chumps..

Berdych never won a slam, Del Potro has won one, Tsonga none.....

Yet they did left the likes of Hewitt, Roddick and Nalbandian as washed up has beens in their mid 20s and those guys were Federer's main rivals when he was clearing up slams 03-07.

So slam winners are rubbish?

Well it seems to be clear tennis was at a low ebb from around the time Sampras and Agassi wound down to before Nadal and Djokovic established themselves on the scene. Federer won 12 of his 12 slams in that 4.25 year period. After that they began to dry up very quickly.

i concur, fed mopped up easy slams with next to no competition in the early days, he's a clear 3rd on the all time list  ;)

the goat imo is novak but there's a case to be made for rafa
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 05:47:34 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 03:09:34 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 02:51:33 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:50:10 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:43:48 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:33:26 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:31:56 PM
What context? 'would have'?

The context is that Federer made hay in a weak era and it's hard to make any reasoned argument that he would have 20 slams at this point of his career if he was born 4 or 5 years later.

Your opinion, that's fine. He wasn't born 4 or five years later, so that is another opinion. He'd have been younger and possibly fitter or as fit as Nadal and Novak.

With that reasoning he could have had more than 20

Not an opinion, it's based on facts. Hewitt/Roddick/Nalbandian were top 4 players in the early stages of Federer's career. Hewitt and Roddick had slams won at the age of 20/21. Nalbandian and Roddick were younger than Federer, Hewitt about a year older. All these players were more or less washed up and has beens in the mid 20s when the likes of Nadal, Djokovic, Murray, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Wawrinka etc entered the scene.

Federer himself struggled really badly from 2007 onwards.

No, the fact is he won 20 slams, who he beat were slam winners, not chumps..

Berdych never won a slam, Del Potro has won one, Tsonga none.....

Yet they did left the likes of Hewitt, Roddick and Nalbandian as washed up has beens in their mid 20s and those guys were Federer's main rivals when he was clearing up slams 03-07.

So after 2007 he won 8 more against, when you said he didn't do well!
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:50:10 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:43:48 PM
Quote from: Angelo on February 23, 2021, 01:33:26 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on February 23, 2021, 01:31:56 PM
What context? 'would have'?

The context is that Federer made hay in a weak era and it's hard to make any reasoned argument that he would have 20 slams at this point of his career if he was born 4 or 5 years later.

Your opinion, that's fine. He wasn't born 4 or five years later, so that is another opinion. He'd have been younger and possibly fitter or as fit as Nadal and Novak.

With that reasoning he could have had more than 20

Not an opinion, it's based on facts. Hewitt/Roddick/Nalbandian were top 4 players in the early stages of Federer's career. Hewitt and Roddick had slams won at the age of 20/21. Nalbandian and Roddick were younger than Federer, Hewitt about a year older. All these players were more or less washed up and has beens in the mid 20s when the likes of Nadal, Djokovic, Murray, Tsonga, Berdych, Del Potro, Wawrinka etc entered the scene.

Federer himself struggled really badly from 2007 onwards.




I love that, struggled on to win 8 finals probably appeared in 8 also! You're a gas
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on June 11, 2021, 09:54:23 PM
Nadal and Djokovic putting on a bit of a classic here.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tatler Jack on June 11, 2021, 10:03:59 PM
Quote from: gallsman on June 11, 2021, 09:54:23 PM
Nadal and Djokovic putting on a bit of a classic here.

Sensational and riveting stuff. 3rd set had some amazing tennis.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Nanderson on June 11, 2021, 10:11:22 PM
Nadal has been the one to put Novak out of Rolland Garros 6 times when he went on to win tournament. If those results were reversed we'd be talking about Novak being one of the all time clay court greats
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tatler Jack on June 11, 2021, 10:22:15 PM
4th set a bit of anti climax after the earlier stuff. Nadal seemed to run out of steam. Great entertainment.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 11, 2021, 10:22:30 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on June 11, 2021, 10:11:22 PM
Nadal has been the one to put Novak out of Rolland Garros 6 times when he went on to win tournament. If those results were reversed we'd be talking about Novak being one of the all time clay court greats

Nadal is done, Angelo will be throwing himself in front of a bus tonight, in some backwater Tyrone village!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Nanderson on June 11, 2021, 10:24:12 PM
Quote from: Tatler Jack on June 11, 2021, 10:22:15 PM
4th set a bit of anti climax after the earlier stuff. Nadal seemed to run out of steam. Great entertainment.
Looked to have picked up an ankle injury. Definitely wasn't as mobile towards the end of 4th set
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on June 11, 2021, 10:27:24 PM
When he went 2-0 up at the start I thought we were going 5 for sure but Novak was absolutely blistering.

Nadal had set point in the 3rd and pushed an easy volley long in the breaker.

Can't see Tsitsipas doing much against him, cracking player though he is on the clay.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Gold on June 11, 2021, 10:30:37 PM
Quote from: Tatler Jack on June 11, 2021, 10:03:59 PM
Quote from: gallsman on June 11, 2021, 09:54:23 PM
Nadal and Djokovic putting on a bit of a classic here.

Sensational and riveting stuff. 3rd set had some amazing tennis.

Absolutely and utterly incredible
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Nanderson on June 11, 2021, 10:32:13 PM
Novak will almost certainly streak past Nadal and Federers 20 grand slams now. If he stays injury free he will probably finish on 22-24 i reckon
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: GiveItToTheShooters on June 12, 2021, 01:34:50 AM
Sure Nadal is a busted flush
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on June 13, 2021, 04:02:09 PM
Tsitsipas two sets up. Hard to see Novak pulling it back the way he is playing.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Rich Ricci on June 13, 2021, 05:15:33 PM
When I turned it over Tsitsipas had just gone 2 sets up and the commentators had it all but over. Djokovic has found something from nothing here now and with a little help from Tsitsipas there only looks one winner now. Hopefully he can get back into in the 5th set.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on June 13, 2021, 06:24:34 PM
Nole the GOAT  :)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on June 13, 2021, 06:25:42 PM
Quote from: Estimator on June 13, 2021, 04:02:09 PM
Tsitsipas two sets up. Hard to see Novak pulling it back the way he is playing.
Looks like I got that wrong.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Rich Ricci on June 13, 2021, 06:28:58 PM
Nadal has always been my favourite but you can't do anything but applaud and admire Djokovic. He's superhuman and just doesn't know when he's beaten. I'd be shocked if it's not the same outcome at Wimbledon.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Nanderson on June 13, 2021, 06:48:36 PM
Novak could do all 4 slams and an Olympic title in 1 year. Novak seems to love playing the pantomime villian. The crowd was rooting for Tsitsipas to get him over the line but the more they cheered the more Novak raised his game a la Wimbledon final against Fed in 2019. Once he found his range with the drop shots he started cleaning up at the net   
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 13, 2021, 07:40:23 PM
Some ejjit from a village in Tyrone is having a shit weekend
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on June 13, 2021, 09:24:30 PM
Djokovic will set the grand slam record, which could be as high as 24/25 by the time he finishes.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: StPatsAbu on June 13, 2021, 10:17:59 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on June 13, 2021, 09:24:30 PM
Djokovic will set the grand slam record, which could be as high as 24/25 by the time he finishes.

They said that about Tiger Woods and majors!   :o Fate is a great leveller!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 11, 2021, 03:28:43 PM
Cracking game so far
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on July 11, 2021, 07:36:07 PM
Top 3 now on 20 slams each.
Novak on course for the calendar golden slam.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: TabClear on September 10, 2021, 07:35:52 AM
New Brit star having an incredible run

https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2021/sep/09/emma-raducanu-maria-sakkari-leylah-annie-fernandez-us-open-tennis-semi-final

Going to be some final between a 18 year old and a19 year old.

When Emma Raducanu arrived at Flushing Meadows this year, she did not have the faintest idea of where to go. So unfamiliar was she with her surroundings, she needed help from her fellow players just to navigate the tournament's vast grounds.

Her growth over the past three weeks since those timid first steps has been astounding as she outplayed everyone put in front of her. And under the lights of the Arthur Ashe Stadium on Thursday night she went even further, producing yet another brilliant performance to reach her first grand slam final.

Faced with a moment she has been dreaming of her entire life, Raducanu handled the occasion with the remarkable composure that has defined her rise as she outclassed Maria Sakkari, the Greek 17th seed, 6-1, 6-4.

In doing so, Raducanu became the first qualifier, man or woman, to reach a grand slam final in the Open era and the first British woman to reach a grand slam final since Virginia Wade's triumph at Wimbledon in 1977. At the age of 18, Raducanu is now one step from the ultimate achievement in her sport.

"Honestly, the time here in New York has gone so fast," she said after the match. "I've just been taking care of each day and, before you know it, I'm in the final and I can't believe it."

Emma Raducanu
Emma Raducanu's US Open heroics inspire young British players
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She will face another teenager, 19 year-old Leylah Annie Fernandez, after the Canadian extended her own astonishing run by scuppering the second seed, Aryna Sabalenka, 7-6 (3), 4-6, 6-4. Together the two players, who last faced each other at junior Wimbledon in 2018, will contest the first grand slam final between teenagers since Serena Williams and Martina Hingis met at the 1999 US Open.

Standing between Raducanu and the final was one of the biggest servers and most athletic players on tour. Sakkari had unfinished business when she stepped on court: at Roland Garros this year, in her first-ever grand slam semi-final, she had faltered when she held match point against Barbora Krejcikova.

Sakkari's drive was obvious at the start of the match. Over the first two games, Raducanu faced seven break points but she demonstrated her toughness by saving them all, and broke for good measure to lead 3-0. As Sakkari struggled to find her level, Raducanu grew. She seemed to occupy every part of the court, neutralising Sakkari's weight of shot with her movement and effortlessly flipped from defence to offence. Sakkari sprayed unforced errors and found herself 5-0 down before Raducanu tidily closed off the first set.

Sakkari opened the second with far greater energy, slamming down a quick hold. But while the Greek player was untouchable on her serve against Karolina Pliskova in the previous round, Raducanu handled Sakkari's biggest weapon by landing difficult returns at her feet. In Sakkari's second service game of the set, Raducanu laid waste to the Greek's serve, pressuring her first serve and attacking her second to break.

The Briton then held serve with an ace and soon found herself up 6-1, 3-1 with double break point. But after Raducanu overhit a forehand and shanked another, Sakkari held serve and the tension rose as the Greek marched around the court determined to recover.

How did Raducanu respond? She served brilliantly as she held to love for 4-2, snapping a backhand down the line on game point. Although Sakkari finally settled into her own service game, Raducanu came out at 5-4 and served out her first grand slam semi-final with ease.

And so this unprecedented journey, which began in the qualifying rounds in the heat of August, goes on. Raducanu is already up to 31st in the live rankings, meaning she has put herself in position to be seeded at the Australian Open after starting the summer as the world No 366 and playing just four tour-level tournaments. Across her nine matches since the qualifying draw, she has yet to drop a set.

Given how sparse her resume is, it would have been perfectly understandable for her to have stumbled over the past week. But she does not care. She is here to take her journey match-by-match, and she has arrived at each one with unwavering belief that she can beat the opponent across the net. Each time she has.

"Is there any expectation? I'm a qualifier so technically, on paper, there's nothing. No pressure on me," said Raducanu on court after her victory.

That youthful fearlessness has, of course, been the defining trend of the US Open. Fernandez had arrived at the tournament ranked 73rd and in indifferent form yet after upsetting Naomi Osaka, the defending champion and third seed, in the third round, she followed it with wins over former champion Angelique Kerber, No 5 seed Elina Svitolina and then Sabalenka.

With her victory, Fernandez became the youngest woman to reach a grand slam final since Maria Sharapova at Wimbledon in 2004. Less than two hours later, Raducanu took the record for herself.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Rich Ricci on September 10, 2021, 08:59:27 AM
Yeah she's doing brilliantly and is absolutely demolishing her opponents. Yet to drop a set.

Djokovic plays Zverev in the men's semi tonight which has the potential to be a cracker.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on September 11, 2021, 10:25:24 PM
Raducanu wins the first set 6-4.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Nanderson on September 11, 2021, 10:27:22 PM
Quote from: Estimator on September 11, 2021, 10:25:24 PM
Raducanu wins the first set 6-4.
I've never seen a womens player with such an aggressive game
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on September 11, 2021, 11:12:59 PM
That may be the first time I've wanted a Brit to win! Unreal stuff.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Rich Ricci on September 11, 2021, 11:15:08 PM
Fantastic stuff. To go through the qualifiers without dropping a set really is amazing.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Nanderson on September 11, 2021, 11:34:13 PM
Quote from: Rich Ricci on September 11, 2021, 11:15:08 PM
Fantastic stuff. To go through the qualifiers without dropping a set really is amazing.
I doubt we will ever see that again
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: ned on September 12, 2021, 12:39:13 AM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on September 11, 2021, 11:12:59 PM
That may be the first time I've wanted a Brit to win! Unreal stuff.

Helps that she was born in Canada to a Romanian father and Chinese mother....
Absolutely sensational story and a brilliant sporting spectacle.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mouview on September 12, 2021, 12:57:05 AM
Quote from: ned on September 12, 2021, 12:39:13 AM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on September 11, 2021, 11:12:59 PM
That may be the first time I've wanted a Brit to win! Unreal stuff.

Helps that she was born in Canada to a Romanian father and Chinese mother....
Absolutely sensational story and a brilliant sporting spectacle.

Her profile doesn't fit the Brexit prototype. 10 years younger and she'd be playing for Romania.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on September 12, 2021, 08:25:19 AM
Irrelevant of age its been a long time since a British female was in the running for a slam never mind winning one.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: laoislad on September 12, 2021, 08:32:41 AM
Quote from: ned on September 12, 2021, 12:39:13 AM
Quote from: Tony Baloney on September 11, 2021, 11:12:59 PM
That may be the first time I've wanted a Brit to win! Unreal stuff.

Helps that she was born in Canada to a Romanian father and Chinese mother....
Absolutely sensational story and a brilliant sporting spectacle.
Mother from China, Father from Romania, neither a Hurling stronghold..
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: An Watcher on September 12, 2021, 11:01:53 AM
Fair play to the Romanian
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Nanderson on September 12, 2021, 11:28:06 AM
Quote from: An Watcher on September 12, 2021, 11:01:53 AM
Fair play to the Romanian
Is that what you see when you look at her?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on September 12, 2021, 12:11:23 PM
Novak could be the best tennis player of all time today! Angelo will be cursing it today
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Saffrongael on September 12, 2021, 12:39:18 PM
Quote from: An Watcher on September 12, 2021, 11:01:53 AM
Fair play to the Romanian

In the UK since she was 2, I think she can be classed as British as much as it annoys you
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on September 12, 2021, 10:54:41 PM
djokovic in big trouble, probably done  :o
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Rich Ricci on September 12, 2021, 11:08:12 PM
Quote from: Mikhail Prokhorov on September 12, 2021, 10:54:41 PM
djokovic in big trouble, probably done  :o

If he wins from here he is the GOAT
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: SHEEDY on September 12, 2021, 11:13:12 PM
Medvedev playing some stuff
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: SHEEDY on September 12, 2021, 11:38:18 PM
Brilliant by Medvedev, had to beat djokovic and the crowd.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: screenexile on September 12, 2021, 11:44:13 PM
Quote from: SHEEDY on September 12, 2021, 11:38:18 PM
Brilliant by Medvedev, had to beat djokovic and the crowd.

What was that??

Djokovic rallying here but Medvedev deserves it so far anyway hopefully he can pull it together to get the job done.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: yellowcard on September 12, 2021, 11:46:44 PM
Great performance by Medvedev especially the first 2 sets. Djokovic under performed though and the pressure of going for the Slam seemed to take its toll, just meant that he wanted it too much.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: screenexile on September 12, 2021, 11:51:29 PM
Did the Tyrone fans relocate from Croker to New York??
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on September 12, 2021, 11:52:41 PM
Quote from: screenexile on September 12, 2021, 11:51:29 PM
Did the Tyrone fans relocate from Croker to New York??
They weren't that bad! Good to see Medvedev ram it down their throat!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: SHEEDY on September 13, 2021, 12:00:17 AM
Quote from: screenexile on September 12, 2021, 11:44:13 PM
Quote from: SHEEDY on September 12, 2021, 11:38:18 PM
Brilliant by Medvedev, had to beat djokovic and the crowd.

What was that??

Djokovic rallying here but Medvedev deserves it so far anyway hopefully he can pull it together to get the job done.
was your stream a bit behind? 😂
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Keyser soze on September 13, 2021, 09:22:34 AM
Djokovic = Choker
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on September 13, 2021, 09:58:21 AM
Quote from: Keyser soze on September 13, 2021, 09:22:34 AM
Djokovic = Choker

He's worse than Mayo
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Keyser soze on September 13, 2021, 12:13:25 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on September 13, 2021, 09:58:21 AM
Quote from: Keyser soze on September 13, 2021, 09:22:34 AM
Djokovic = Choker

He's worse than Mayo

Naw, Leyton Hewitt
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: seafoid on November 10, 2021, 07:18:33 AM
Billie Jean King: "I think Djokovic is going to be the best in titles, because when Nadal and Federer competed they hurt each other in that sense. Navratilova and Evert would have won 40 Grand Slams if one of them hadn't been around." (Via AS)
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: screenexile on January 06, 2022, 03:18:11 PM
Hard to feel sorry for Djokovic in this whole saga!!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: fearsiuil on January 06, 2022, 03:22:33 PM
Quote from: screenexile on January 06, 2022, 03:18:11 PM
Hard to feel sorry for Djokovic in this whole saga!!
See Serbian prime minister and president getting involved now, ridiculous stuff, stating he is not being treated same as other players - maybe he should man-up and not fall back on his super star status to get vaccine exemption.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on January 06, 2022, 03:26:10 PM
he's obviously a cnut of the highest order

would be some climbdown from the government if he can stay and play after all

his matches would be great craic in saying that

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on January 06, 2022, 03:30:47 PM
Novax Deportedvic

Thats the sum of my input
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 06, 2022, 05:22:35 PM
When the CL kicks off again are there any European countries where they have the non entry if not vaccinated?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: From the Bunker on January 06, 2022, 05:40:20 PM
The 'Not Fully Vaccinated' are really getting on their high horses about this!

Some circus the last couple of days. Australia is a horrible place at the moment!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mrdeeds on January 06, 2022, 07:24:02 PM
He tried to get in on the wrong visa.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on January 06, 2022, 10:45:03 PM
He isn't being treated the same as other players ad there have been players let in under the same exemption as Djokovic was. Their exemption wasn't rescinded as they weren't the best in the world.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: seafoid on January 06, 2022, 11:05:12 PM
He may also miss the French open.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 06, 2022, 11:16:24 PM
Where all the English cricket team and their families vaccinated?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: David McKeown on January 06, 2022, 11:21:38 PM
Is the issue not that he won't disclose the nature of the medical exemption to border security and was relying on his doctors saying he had one which was acceptable to the tennis authorities and the government officials associated with them but not to the border officials?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on January 06, 2022, 11:30:57 PM
His medical exemption is based on the fact he had covid within the last 6 months,  which is a valid exemption. A joke that others have been permitted with the same exemption but he hasn't, just making him the scapegoat.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: David McKeown on January 06, 2022, 11:37:29 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on January 06, 2022, 11:30:57 PM
His medical exemption is based on the fact he had covid within the last 6 months,  which is a valid exemption. A joke that others have been permitted with the same exemption but he hasn't, just making him the scapegoat.

Is that right though. I thought he was refusing to disclose what his exemption is.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: GiveItToTheShooters on January 06, 2022, 11:40:24 PM
Fair play to Australia. He's an entitled ballbag who thinks he can be treated differently to the rest.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: seafoid on January 07, 2022, 07:52:31 AM
Quote from: David McKeown on January 06, 2022, 11:21:38 PM
Is the issue not that he won't disclose the nature of the medical exemption to border security and was relying on his doctors saying he had one which was acceptable to the tennis authorities and the government officials associated with them but not to the border officials?

https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/other-sports/johnny-watterson-lateral-flow-of-time-will-expose-djokovic-s-anti-vaxxer-crusade-1.4770513

That is an Australian government that at state level thought they had his waiver to play covered and a federal government reading the room and going with the flow of their voters. 
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Hound on January 07, 2022, 08:24:52 AM
Quote from: David McKeown on January 06, 2022, 11:37:29 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on January 06, 2022, 11:30:57 PM
His medical exemption is based on the fact he had covid within the last 6 months,  which is a valid exemption. A joke that others have been permitted with the same exemption but he hasn't, just making him the scapegoat.

Is that right though. I thought he was refusing to disclose what his exemption is.
Not impossible, but it's thought unlikely that he qualifies for a vaccine on medical grounds. As he has not explained it or produced documentation to the Aussie authorities to support a medical exemption, the thinking is he was trying to avail of an exemption on the basis he has tested positive within the last 6 months. Unfortunately no such exemption exists.  He may well have been wrongly informed by Tennis Australia, so the government are now reviewing all exemptions given to tennis players.

He was caught because he was high profile, but he is not being singled out. Any others will be dealt with similarly if they have no supportable medical exemption.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: johnnycool on January 07, 2022, 08:52:16 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on January 06, 2022, 11:16:24 PM
Where all the English cricket team and their families vaccinated?

England sent a cricket team?

When did this happen?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: seafoid on January 07, 2022, 08:53:30 AM
Quote from: GiveItToTheShooters on January 06, 2022, 11:40:24 PM
Fair play to Australia. He's an entitled ballbag who thinks he can be treated differently to the rest.
Antivaxxers are tearing the arse out of it at this stage
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Man Marker on January 07, 2022, 12:33:16 PM
Quote from: seafoid on January 07, 2022, 08:53:30 AM
Quote from: GiveItToTheShooters on January 06, 2022, 11:40:24 PM
Fair play to Australia. He's an entitled ballbag who thinks he can be treated differently to the rest.
Antivaxxers are tearing the arse out of it at this stage

so lets stack this up

He recently had covid, which means he has a natural immunity
His medical papers would demonstrated this, if they need more medical evidence you can be sure it will be supplied, never mind the fact other players got through with the same process
His current PCR etc is negative which means he has NOT got covid

This isn't about covid, its about votes and responding to the media pressure. Its political, period.

Australia is a hole presently to be avoided.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mrdeeds on January 07, 2022, 12:52:26 PM
Quote from: Man Marker on January 07, 2022, 12:33:16 PM
Quote from: seafoid on January 07, 2022, 08:53:30 AM
Quote from: GiveItToTheShooters on January 06, 2022, 11:40:24 PM
Fair play to Australia. He's an entitled ballbag who thinks he can be treated differently to the rest.
Antivaxxers are tearing the arse out of it at this stage

so lets stack this up

He recently had covid, which means he has a natural immunity
His medical papers would demonstrated this, if they need more medical evidence you can be sure it will be supplied, never mind the fact other players got through with the same process
His current PCR etc is negative which means he has NOT got covid

This isn't about covid, its about votes and responding to the media pressure. Its political, period.

Australia is a hole presently to be avoided.

Did he not use wrong Visa????
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: lenny on January 07, 2022, 02:23:39 PM
Quote from: Man Marker on January 07, 2022, 12:33:16 PM
Quote from: seafoid on January 07, 2022, 08:53:30 AM
Quote from: GiveItToTheShooters on January 06, 2022, 11:40:24 PM
Fair play to Australia. He's an entitled ballbag who thinks he can be treated differently to the rest.
Antivaxxers are tearing the arse out of it at this stage

so lets stack this up

He recently had covid, which means he has a natural immunity
His medical papers would demonstrated this, if they need more medical evidence you can be sure it will be supplied, never mind the fact other players got through with the same process
His current PCR etc is negative which means he has NOT got covid

This isn't about covid, its about votes and responding to the media pressure. Its political, period.

Australia is a hole presently to be avoided.

He had Covid last year, not recently. Keir Starmer has tested positive again within 2 months of a previous infection so the natural immunity you talk about is rubbish. He has the simple opportunity to get vaccinated which would give the Australian authorities the assurance that in the event of him getting Covid he wouldn't be taking up a valuable hospital bed. He's being a dick and the Australians are showing that their laws are being applied fairly.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on January 07, 2022, 02:33:52 PM
Letting him in to the country says one rule for him and one rule for everyone else. I didn't see how they could do that irrepsctive of the topic tbh.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Man Marker on January 07, 2022, 02:38:36 PM
And you think him being vaccinated would have stopped him getting covid. It very obvious this is a pollical move.  He was ok'd by the tennis authorities (they have to take a good chunk of blame for not being all over this as well) Mondays court hearing will tell a tale. Big news day.

itg, that would be true if it was only him. But by reports there have been a number of less high profile sports people entered with similar evidence. As I say the court hearing on Monday will tell a tale.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 07, 2022, 02:41:45 PM
Quote from: imtommygunn on January 07, 2022, 02:33:52 PM
Letting him in to the country says one rule for him and one rule for everyone else. I didn't see how they could do that irrepsctive of the topic tbh.

Its a mess in fairness, but there will be examples of sports people getting in and others being made a big topic over, the reality is they have had just over 2,000 deaths, the big spike at the minute is the new virus which (fingers crossed) isnt hospitalizing as many people.

Move it to Queensland, there has been very few deaths there, 8!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: lenny on January 07, 2022, 02:49:47 PM
Quote from: Man Marker on January 07, 2022, 02:38:36 PM
And you think him being vaccinated would have stopped him getting covid. It very obvious this is a pollical move.  He was ok'd by the tennis authorities (they have to take a good chunk of blame for not being all over this as well) Mondays court hearing will tell a tale. Big news day.

itg, that would be true if it was only him. But by reports there have been a number of less high profile sports people entered with similar evidence. As I say the court hearing on Monday will tell a tale.

It doesn't stop him getting Covid but it dramatically reduces his chances of needing hospital treatment if he gets Covid. Exceptions can't be made just because he's a decent tennis player. Otherwise every unvaccinated person who had Covid last year will expect the same treatment and many of them would end up in hospital.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Gmac on January 07, 2022, 03:02:56 PM
Quote from: lenny on January 07, 2022, 02:49:47 PM
Quote from: Man Marker on January 07, 2022, 02:38:36 PM
And you think him being vaccinated would have stopped him getting covid. It very obvious this is a pollical move.  He was ok'd by the tennis authorities (they have to take a good chunk of blame for not being all over this as well) Mondays court hearing will tell a tale. Big news day.

itg, that would be true if it was only him. But by reports there have been a number of less high profile sports people entered with similar evidence. As I say the court hearing on Monday will tell a tale.

It doesn't stop him getting Covid but it dramatically reduces his chances of needing hospital treatment if he gets Covid. Exceptions can't be made just because he's a decent tennis player. Otherwise every unvaccinated person who had Covid last year will expect the same treatment and many of them would end up in hospital.
is there any  fit young athlete who had to go to hospital with Covid ? I may be setting myself up here but I haven't heard of any
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: lenny on January 07, 2022, 03:08:24 PM
Quote from: Gmac on January 07, 2022, 03:02:56 PM
Quote from: lenny on January 07, 2022, 02:49:47 PM
Quote from: Man Marker on January 07, 2022, 02:38:36 PM
And you think him being vaccinated would have stopped him getting covid. It very obvious this is a pollical move.  He was ok'd by the tennis authorities (they have to take a good chunk of blame for not being all over this as well) Mondays court hearing will tell a tale. Big news day.

itg, that would be true if it was only him. But by reports there have been a number of less high profile sports people entered with similar evidence. As I say the court hearing on Monday will tell a tale.

It doesn't stop him getting Covid but it dramatically reduces his chances of needing hospital treatment if he gets Covid. Exceptions can't be made just because he's a decent tennis player. Otherwise every unvaccinated person who had Covid last year will expect the same treatment and many of them would end up in hospital.
is there any  fit young athlete who had to go to hospital with Covid ? I may be setting myself up here but I haven't heard of any

So you think there should be one rule for him and one rule for the rest of us. I'm afraid I completely disagree. If you allow him in on an exception you open the floodgates and there will be loads of unvaccinated people who'll end up taking up valuable hospital beds.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: seafoid on January 07, 2022, 03:20:11 PM
https://www.theaustralian.com.au/sport
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on January 07, 2022, 03:21:28 PM
Yeah I have read of a few runners. I don't have links right now but in particular a marathon runner who got hit with it and went from regular running to barely being able to walk.

I don't think this story is really about covid or vaccinations tbh. You can't have one rule for one and one rule for others. How it was allowed in the first place I don't know or it has been a political stunt to reverse it or whatever but it shouldn't be a story. You put rules in place everyone should have to follow them.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Ed Ricketts on January 07, 2022, 04:22:24 PM
Quote from: Gmac on January 07, 2022, 03:02:56 PM
Quote from: lenny on January 07, 2022, 02:49:47 PM
Quote from: Man Marker on January 07, 2022, 02:38:36 PM
And you think him being vaccinated would have stopped him getting covid. It very obvious this is a pollical move.  He was ok'd by the tennis authorities (they have to take a good chunk of blame for not being all over this as well) Mondays court hearing will tell a tale. Big news day.

itg, that would be true if it was only him. But by reports there have been a number of less high profile sports people entered with similar evidence. As I say the court hearing on Monday will tell a tale.

It doesn't stop him getting Covid but it dramatically reduces his chances of needing hospital treatment if he gets Covid. Exceptions can't be made just because he's a decent tennis player. Otherwise every unvaccinated person who had Covid last year will expect the same treatment and many of them would end up in hospital.
is there any  fit young athlete who had to go to hospital with Covid ? I may be setting myself up here but I haven't heard of any

Karl Darlow (https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/58486106) is one. Josh Kimmich (https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/59629738) didn't sound too hot either. I'm sure you'd find more across various sports if you went looking. It's clearly uncommon, but not unheard of, for young people to become seriously ill from this virus.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mrdeeds on January 07, 2022, 05:42:40 PM
Quote from: Ed Ricketts on January 07, 2022, 04:22:24 PM
Quote from: Gmac on January 07, 2022, 03:02:56 PM
Quote from: lenny on January 07, 2022, 02:49:47 PM
Quote from: Man Marker on January 07, 2022, 02:38:36 PM
And you think him being vaccinated would have stopped him getting covid. It very obvious this is a pollical move.  He was ok'd by the tennis authorities (they have to take a good chunk of blame for not being all over this as well) Mondays court hearing will tell a tale. Big news day.

itg, that would be true if it was only him. But by reports there have been a number of less high profile sports people entered with similar evidence. As I say the court hearing on Monday will tell a tale.

It doesn't stop him getting Covid but it dramatically reduces his chances of needing hospital treatment if he gets Covid. Exceptions can't be made just because he's a decent tennis player. Otherwise every unvaccinated person who had Covid last year will expect the same treatment and many of them would end up in hospital.
is there any  fit young athlete who had to go to hospital with Covid ? I may be setting myself up here but I haven't heard of any

Karl Darlow (https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/58486106) is one. Josh Kimmich (https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/59629738) didn't sound too hot either. I'm sure you'd find more across various sports if you went looking. It's clearly uncommon, but not unheard of, for young people to become seriously ill from this virus.

Yeah Kimmich sprung to mind straight away. He suffered massively and has serious lung problems as a result.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: David McKeown on January 10, 2022, 02:08:19 AM
Not looking great for the Government in the early exchanges in the appeal hearing
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Never beat the deeler on January 10, 2022, 03:11:03 AM
Quote from: David McKeown on January 10, 2022, 02:08:19 AM
Not looking great for the Government in the early exchanges in the appeal hearing

how so?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: seafoid on January 10, 2022, 05:58:33 AM
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2022/01/10/novak-djokovic-news-australian-open-verdict-covid-vaccine/Judge Anthony Kelly asked for government assistance to facilitate the Serbian's safe transport to and from his hotel after technical issues frequently caused the stream to crash amid worldwide interest.

Most foreigners are still banned from travel to Australia, and those granted entry must be fully vaccinated or have an exemption like "acute" illness.

Government lawyers reject Djokovic's case, and are expected to argue later on Monday that he fails to meet the medical criteria as his recent infection was not "acute".

They will seek to have his appeal dismissed with costs, according to a 13-page court submission, paving the way for his deportation as soon as Monday evening.



Anti-vaccine activists shared a link to the livestream and defied a court order by broadcasting proceedings live on YouTube.

Eventually, the judge pressed ahead without a public livestream, and Djokovic's team of top-flight lawyers made his case.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: David McKeown on January 10, 2022, 08:37:17 AM
Quote from: Never beat the deeler on January 10, 2022, 03:11:03 AM
Quote from: David McKeown on January 10, 2022, 02:08:19 AM
Not looking great for the Government in the early exchanges in the appeal hearing

how so?

It was clear from the initial exchanges that the proper procedures were not followed and that the Judge was highly critical of the government for that. Interestingly the fact that a recent Covid infection did amount to a medical exemption was not as central to Djokovic's argument as the way he was treated which I think just shows how badly the government officials played this one.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Man Marker on January 10, 2022, 09:17:42 AM
Quote from: lenny on January 07, 2022, 03:08:24 PM
Quote from: Gmac on January 07, 2022, 03:02:56 PM
Quote from: lenny on January 07, 2022, 02:49:47 PM
Quote from: Man Marker on January 07, 2022, 02:38:36 PM
And you think him being vaccinated would have stopped him getting covid. It very obvious this is a pollical move.  He was ok'd by the tennis authorities (they have to take a good chunk of blame for not being all over this as well) Mondays court hearing will tell a tale. Big news day.

itg, that would be true if it was only him. But by reports there have been a number of less high profile sports people entered with similar evidence. As I say the court hearing on Monday will tell a tale.

It doesn't stop him getting Covid but it dramatically reduces his chances of needing hospital treatment if he gets Covid. Exceptions can't be made just because he's a decent tennis player. Otherwise every unvaccinated person who had Covid last year will expect the same treatment and many of them would end up in hospital.
is there any  fit young athlete who had to go to hospital with Covid ? I may be setting myself up here but I haven't heard of any

So you think there should be one rule for him and one rule for the rest of us. I'm afraid I completely disagree. If you allow him in on an exception you open the floodgates and there will be loads of unvaccinated people who'll end up taking up valuable hospital beds.

As I said early doors on Friday its political. Thrown out of court. A blind man could see it except very pro vaxxers. Its tara that in area of Ireland where people should be able to smell a rat from government, especially on trampling an individual's rights.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on January 10, 2022, 09:23:38 AM
The plot thickens. Apparently re-arrested.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Man Marker on January 10, 2022, 09:35:51 AM
Quote from: imtommygunn on January 10, 2022, 09:23:38 AM
The plot thickens. Apparently re-arrested.

No, inaccurate

Immigration minister still deciding on whether to abuse their power once more
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 10, 2022, 09:42:31 AM
Quote from: imtommygunn on January 10, 2022, 09:23:38 AM
The plot thickens. Apparently re-arrested.

The government, rightly or wrongly depending on your view are looking pretty poor at this stage, I've said many times I'm for taking the vaccine and boosters for my own reasons and to date I've had no issues, as a family we've all been grand, whether that's luck or because of the vaccines I don't know.

Novak has strongly been against vaccines and has caught it twice, he should abide by the rules of the country that he's in, if the only way he can enter a country is by having a vaccine then its a no brainer. either he plays with the vaccine or he doesn't play the tournament .

But if there was a rule on exemptions due to having caught the virus within a period then the Aussie government will have to let him play, if its down to a high profile person being made an example of then its an own goal.

If his lawyers have evidence of him following the correct procedures or examples of other people getting in under exemptions then this will become a total mess.

At this stage he'll have not had enough practice in or be in the right frame of mind to compete in this tournament anyways, maybe thats why they have prolonged this
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on January 10, 2022, 09:43:28 AM
Why delay the inevitable? He won't be deported and the immigration minister is just digging a bigger hole for himself.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: thebigfella on January 10, 2022, 10:38:44 AM
Let him play. It will be a small victory for him and the antivax lads will be all over it.

At this stage though his reputation is in tatters. It looks pretty clear from the social media pics found over the weekend that the PCR results are forged (I suspect the Aussies think that but can't prove it) but the big one for me is aligning himself with that provo Farage.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: johnnycool on January 10, 2022, 10:44:41 AM
Quote from: nrico2006 on January 10, 2022, 09:43:28 AM
Why delay the inevitable? He won't be deported and the immigration minister is just digging a bigger hole for himself.

I'm led to believe that there's a few discrepancies in Novaks stories in relation to when he had tested positive for Covid in the past with one of the dates he gave as being just over a month ago he's showing pictures on his social media of him at some underage tennis event somewhere or other.

Those dates might still tally, but for him to be knowingly positive and also out and about with kids isn't a good look.

Interesting to see some of the support he's getting on his is from Brexiteers very much into controlling borders yet when the Aussies are doing it it's infringing on someone's freedom..

Ultimately we all know there's politics at play here as well.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: seafoid on January 10, 2022, 11:55:19 AM
Quote from: johnnycool on January 10, 2022, 10:44:41 AM
Quote from: nrico2006 on January 10, 2022, 09:43:28 AM
Why delay the inevitable? He won't be deported and the immigration minister is just digging a bigger hole for himself.

I'm led to believe that there's a few discrepancies in Novaks stories in relation to when he had tested positive for Covid in the past with one of the dates he gave as being just over a month ago he's showing pictures on his social media of him at some underage tennis event somewhere or other.

Those dates might still tally, but for him to be knowingly positive and also out and about with kids isn't a good look.

Interesting to see some of the support he's getting on his is from Brexiteers very much into controlling borders yet when the Aussies are doing it it's infringing on someone's freedom..

Ultimately we all know there's politics at play here as well.
Election in 4 months
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on January 10, 2022, 12:10:43 PM
Farage is all over it. You couldn't make it up.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 10, 2022, 12:20:42 PM
Quote from: thebigfella on January 10, 2022, 10:38:44 AM
Let him play. It will be a small victory for him and the antivax lads will be all over it.

At this stage though his reputation is in tatters. It looks pretty clear from the social media pics found over the weekend that the PCR results are forged (I suspect the Aussies think that but can't prove it) but the big one for me is aligning himself with that provo Farage.

Tatters? That's a bit extreme?  If he was in breach of his countries covid rules he should be pulled for it in his own country, probably dealt with the way Boris tea parties were dealt with. What's happening in Australia is completely different.

BTW I couldn't care less if he plays or never plays again but when politics gets involved it makes it a bit suspect
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: seafoid on January 10, 2022, 12:33:46 PM
Unvaccinated but with a medical exemption, being that he had Covid in late December (and didn't do 14 day quarantine in Serbia). How can covid justify a medical exemption?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: thebigfella on January 10, 2022, 01:06:59 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on January 10, 2022, 12:20:42 PM
Quote from: thebigfella on January 10, 2022, 10:38:44 AM
Let him play. It will be a small victory for him and the antivax lads will be all over it.

At this stage though his reputation is in tatters. It looks pretty clear from the social media pics found over the weekend that the PCR results are forged (I suspect the Aussies think that but can't prove it) but the big one for me is aligning himself with that provo Farage.

Tatters? That's a bit extreme?  If he was in breach of his countries covid rules he should be pulled for it in his own country, probably dealt with the way Boris tea parties were dealt with. What's happening in Australia is completely different.

BTW I couldn't care less if he plays or never plays again but when politics gets involved it makes it a bit suspect

;D
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: RedHand88 on January 10, 2022, 01:07:33 PM
Quote from: seafoid on January 10, 2022, 12:33:46 PM
Unvaccinated but with a medical exemption, being that he had Covid in late December (and didn't do 14 day quarantine in Serbia). How can covid justify a medical exemption?

Not only did he not isolate, he posed maskless with dozens of children the next day!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 10, 2022, 01:12:47 PM
Quote from: seafoid on January 10, 2022, 12:33:46 PM
Unvaccinated but with a medical exemption, being that he had Covid in late December (and didn't do 14 day quarantine in Serbia). How can covid justify a medical exemption?

Its like when you can either show proof of a positive covid infection within the last 6 months, or vaccine passport showing you have had at least 2 jabs within a period.

If having a vaccine stops you getting covid again then no problems, but it doesnt, it helps to reduce your hospitalization, not giving someone else the virus, proof of a positive test shows that there is some immunity within a time period also, so its (like the vaccine) reducing your chances of being hospitalized?

I don't know anymore, I've lost count of what pathway is right
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on January 10, 2022, 01:16:05 PM
For me it doesn't matter what the topic here is. Australia has rules - is he within them or not? If not no entry but if Australia are making mistakes or playing silly buggers then he should be allowed in.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on January 10, 2022, 01:22:33 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on January 10, 2022, 01:07:33 PM
Quote from: seafoid on January 10, 2022, 12:33:46 PM
Unvaccinated but with a medical exemption, being that he had Covid in late December (and didn't do 14 day quarantine in Serbia). How can covid justify a medical exemption?

Not only did he not isolate, he posed maskless with dozens of children the next day!

Sounds like a lovely chap..
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 10, 2022, 01:23:59 PM
Quote from: imtommygunn on January 10, 2022, 01:16:05 PM
For me it doesn't matter what the topic here is. Australia has rules - is he within them or not? If not no entry but if Australia are making mistakes or playing silly buggers then he should be allowed in.

I agree!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: yellowcard on January 10, 2022, 01:25:25 PM
Djokovic has always been a bit of a contrarian. Despite his hugely successful career he has never had the same love or affection as either Federer or Nadal and he has thrived on being cast into that role. He is not doing anything out of character here.

I'm not au fait with the whole Visa case since I am just completely weary of the whole Covid thing and tend to switch off on such matters. But if he wasn't a superstar tennis player he would not have got into Australia, that much is obvious.   
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 10, 2022, 01:28:19 PM
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on January 10, 2022, 01:22:33 PM
Quote from: RedHand88 on January 10, 2022, 01:07:33 PM
Quote from: seafoid on January 10, 2022, 12:33:46 PM
Unvaccinated but with a medical exemption, being that he had Covid in late December (and didn't do 14 day quarantine in Serbia). How can covid justify a medical exemption?

Not only did he not isolate, he posed maskless with dozens of children the next day!

Sounds like a lovely chap..

Was on the news today and this is out of order, he should be pulled for this, if his government has any sense the should charge him for breaking the rules. Can't see it though
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: johnnycool on January 10, 2022, 01:33:59 PM
Quote from: seafoid on January 10, 2022, 12:33:46 PM
Unvaccinated but with a medical exemption, being that he had Covid in late December (and didn't do 14 day quarantine in Serbia). How can covid justify a medical exemption?

He was looking the exemption based on the fact you can't take a vaccine if you've had covid very recently before it, 4 weeks IIRC, so he's being a bit disingenuous over it as he'd never any intent to get vaccinated irrespective.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on January 10, 2022, 01:36:21 PM
Quote from: johnnycool on January 10, 2022, 01:33:59 PM
Quote from: seafoid on January 10, 2022, 12:33:46 PM
Unvaccinated but with a medical exemption, being that he had Covid in late December (and didn't do 14 day quarantine in Serbia). How can covid justify a medical exemption?

He was looking the exemption based on the fact you can't take a vaccine if you've had covid very recently before it, 4 weeks IIRC, so he's being a bit disingenuous over it as he'd never any intent to get vaccinated irrespective.
It's now 12 weeks which has potentially scuppered school trip plans for our middle fella  :-\
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: seafoid on January 11, 2022, 07:40:59 AM
It's an interesting mix of Covid, a non conformist and an upcoming  election


https://mobile.twitter.com/PeebsY0/status/1480669526727479301
#InformedDissent

@PeebsY0



Now people will believe Morrison was serious about covid.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: seafoid on January 11, 2022, 03:42:27 PM
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/tennis/2022/01/11/novak-djokovic-investigated-claim-lied-australian-travel-declaration/

Novak Djokovic is being investigated over whether he falsely stated he had not travelled and would not do so in the two weeks prior to his flight to Australia.
In the latest twist in the Djokovic deportation furore, questions have been raised about the Australian Travel Declaration (ATD) he told border officials had been completed by his agent after social media posts indicated he had travelled from Serbia to Spain between Christmas and new year before flying to Melbourne on January 4 via Dubai.
Whoever filled out the form ticked 'No' to the question: "Have you travelled, or will you travel, in the 14 days prior to your flight to Australia? Giving false or misleading information is a serious offence. You may also be liable to a civil penalty for giving false or misleading information."
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: seafoid on January 11, 2022, 08:17:43 PM
https://mobile.twitter.com/mehdirhasan/status/1480728733652815874
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: stephenite on January 11, 2022, 09:22:12 PM
FWIW people on the ground here in Melbourne are livid about him getting in and potentially able to play - with an upcoming election essentially a referendum on the current Government handling of the pandemic (food shortages, no RAT tests, kids unvaccinated), this is an opportunity for these clowns to reclaim the narrative.

I reckon he'll get booted, but perhaps I'm just overly hopeful
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: johnnycool on January 12, 2022, 10:58:43 AM
Quote from: seafoid on January 11, 2022, 03:42:27 PM
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/tennis/2022/01/11/novak-djokovic-investigated-claim-lied-australian-travel-declaration/

Novak Djokovic is being investigated over whether he falsely stated he had not travelled and would not do so in the two weeks prior to his flight to Australia.
In the latest twist in the Djokovic deportation furore, questions have been raised about the Australian Travel Declaration (ATD) he told border officials had been completed by his agent after social media posts indicated he had travelled from Serbia to Spain between Christmas and new year before flying to Melbourne on January 4 via Dubai.
Whoever filled out the form ticked 'No' to the question: "Have you travelled, or will you travel, in the 14 days prior to your flight to Australia? Giving false or misleading information is a serious offence. You may also be liable to a civil penalty for giving false or misleading information."

He's been caught out telling quite a few pork pies and throwing the agent under the bus for the form but says he tested positive yet was firing away with press interviews and travelling contrary to Serbian regulations at that time.

You can now understand why Australian Border Officials were a bit sceptical about his entry declarations.

I'm all for a persons right to choose what goes into their body but with that comes consequences and if no entry into Australia is part of that then he should have sucked it up and not went.

He's been a sneaky bollox and got caught but alas may still get to play.


Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: seafoid on January 13, 2022, 05:58:05 AM
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/tennis/2022/01/12/australian-government-building-case-cancel-novak-djokovics-visa/

A case for deporting Novak Djokovic from Australia was being built on Wednesday amid a widening investigation into his coronavirus quarantine breach, false declarations within his travel documents, and unanswered questions about his positive test.


https://mobile.twitter.com/SeamasBelfast/status/1462912051400134659
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: toby47 on January 14, 2022, 08:15:19 AM
Djokovic's visa revoked again - he's facing deportation from Australia again
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: From the Bunker on January 14, 2022, 08:26:04 AM
Ah, it's been some circus the last week! The Australians were never going to let him in from day one. There was always an excuse. In fairness he did give them a plethora of ammunition to fire at him.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 14, 2022, 09:07:52 AM
Quote from: From the Bunker on January 14, 2022, 08:26:04 AM
Ah, it's been some circus the last week! The Australians were never going to let him in from day one. There was always an excuse. In fairness he did give them a plethora of ammunition to fire at him.

Its been a joke and the have sent 4 others home also, well two bucked out and two just left without the hassle, as for Novak he hasnt helped himself as you say, Ive a lot of time for his tennis ability but he's clearly taking the piss here BJ style and for that he'll have to take his medicine  :D I'll get my coat!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: seafoid on January 14, 2022, 09:17:05 AM
If there hadn't been an election he might have been able to wing it. He did himself no favours.


.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Keyser soze on January 14, 2022, 09:26:34 AM
Quote from: yellowcard on January 10, 2022, 01:25:25 PM
Djokovic has always been a bit of a c*ntrarian. Despite his hugely successful career he has never had the same love or affection as either Federer or Nadal and he has thrived on being cast into that role. He is not doing anything out of character here.

I'm not au fait with the whole Visa case since I am just completely weary of the whole Covid thing and tend to switch off on such matters. But if he wasn't a superstar tennis player he would not have got into Australia, that much is obvious.
[/s]

Fixed that for ye
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Man Marker on January 14, 2022, 09:37:58 AM
Quote from: Keyser soze on January 14, 2022, 09:26:34 AM
Quote from: yellowcard on January 10, 2022, 01:25:25 PM
Djokovic has always been a bit of a c*ntrarian. Despite his hugely successful career he has never had the same love or affection as either Federer or Nadal and he has thrived on being cast into that role. He is not doing anything out of character here.

I'm not au fait with the whole Visa case since I am just completely weary of the whole Covid thing and tend to switch off on such matters. But if he wasn't a superstar tennis player he would not have got into Australia, that much is obvious.
[/s]

Fixed that for ye

I'm sure your an angel  ::)

Completely politically motivated. Could have done it yesterday but waited to the close of business to make things more difficult for him. Anyone with an ounce of fairness against institutional abuse should be concerned.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: RedHand88 on January 14, 2022, 10:16:26 AM
Quote from: Man Marker on January 14, 2022, 09:37:58 AM
Quote from: Keyser soze on January 14, 2022, 09:26:34 AM


Quote from: yellowcard on January 10, 2022, 01:25:25 PM
Djokovic has always been a bit of a c*ntrarian. Despite his hugely successful career he has never had the same love or affection as either Federer or Nadal and he has thrived on being cast into that role. He is not doing anything out of character here.

I'm not au fait with the whole Visa case since I am just completely weary of the whole Covid thing and tend to switch off on such matters. But if he wasn't a superstar tennis player he would not have got into Australia, that much is obvious.
[/s]

Fixed that for ye

I'm sure your an angel  ::)

Completely politically motivated. Could have done it yesterday but waited to the close of business to make things more difficult for him. Anyone with an ounce of fairness against institutional abuse should be concerned.

Institutional abuse? What?!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: thebigfella on January 14, 2022, 10:55:33 AM
Quote from: Man Marker on January 14, 2022, 09:37:58 AM
Quote from: Keyser soze on January 14, 2022, 09:26:34 AM
Quote from: yellowcard on January 10, 2022, 01:25:25 PM
Djokovic has always been a bit of a c*ntrarian. Despite his hugely successful career he has never had the same love or affection as either Federer or Nadal and he has thrived on being cast into that role. He is not doing anything out of character here.

I'm not au fait with the whole Visa case since I am just completely weary of the whole Covid thing and tend to switch off on such matters. But if he wasn't a superstar tennis player he would not have got into Australia, that much is obvious.
[/s]

Fixed that for ye

I'm sure your an angel  ::)

Completely politically motivated. Could have done it yesterday but waited to the close of business to make things more difficult for him. Anyone with an ounce of fairness against institutional abuse should be concerned.

Wise the f**k up
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: johnnycool on January 14, 2022, 11:40:24 AM
Quote from: Man Marker on January 14, 2022, 09:37:58 AM
Quote from: Keyser soze on January 14, 2022, 09:26:34 AM
Quote from: yellowcard on January 10, 2022, 01:25:25 PM
Djokovic has always been a bit of a c*ntrarian. Despite his hugely successful career he has never had the same love or affection as either Federer or Nadal and he has thrived on being cast into that role. He is not doing anything out of character here.

I'm not au fait with the whole Visa case since I am just completely weary of the whole Covid thing and tend to switch off on such matters. But if he wasn't a superstar tennis player he would not have got into Australia, that much is obvious.
[/s]

Fixed that for ye

I'm sure your an angel  ::)

Completely politically motivated. Could have done it yesterday but waited to the close of business to make things more difficult for him. Anyone with an ounce of fairness against institutional abuse should be concerned.

That's what controlling your own borders looks like..

Farage will be disgusted.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: David McKeown on January 14, 2022, 02:40:26 PM
The appeal has been transferred to the Federal Court and will be live streamed from 11:15pm tonight Irish time.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Wildweasel74 on January 14, 2022, 04:27:10 PM
Novac comes across like a cocky bollocks, never liked him anyways, he never be Federer
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: RedHand88 on January 16, 2022, 07:11:23 AM
Djokovic lost his last ditch appeal and is set to be deported. Renown immigration rights campaigner Nigel Farage will be gutted.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: seafoid on January 16, 2022, 11:32:26 AM
Political theatre. Djokovic got played.
No sympathy for him. Ordinary people in Oz made a lot of sacrifices including not being able to sit with dying relatives.
Get vaccinated.

https://mobile.twitter.com/SeamasBelfast/status/1462912051400134659


Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: GiveItToTheShooters on January 16, 2022, 02:47:27 PM
Fair play to the Australians. Slap it up him
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Gmac on January 16, 2022, 03:51:49 PM
The Aussies and kiwis have lost the plot , he should never go back there again.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on January 16, 2022, 03:58:06 PM
Quote from: Gmac on January 16, 2022, 03:51:49 PM
The Aussies and kiwis have lost the plot , he should never go back there again.

Was thinking the same regarding the next Australian Open(s), if he doesn't go it will devalue the competition.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: lenny on January 16, 2022, 04:02:56 PM
Quote from: Gmac on January 16, 2022, 03:51:49 PM
The Aussies and kiwis have lost the plot , he should never go back there again.

They've managed the pandemic better than anyone. Very few deaths and society almost completely open over the whole period.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on January 16, 2022, 04:08:11 PM
the french might not let him play either
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Gmac on January 16, 2022, 04:10:03 PM
Quote from: lenny on January 16, 2022, 04:02:56 PM
Quote from: Gmac on January 16, 2022, 03:51:49 PM
The Aussies and kiwis have lost the plot , he should never go back there again.

They've managed the pandemic better than anyone. Very few deaths and society almost completely open over the whole period.
misinformation a one way street ?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: lenny on January 16, 2022, 04:15:22 PM
Quote from: Gmac on January 16, 2022, 04:10:03 PM
Quote from: lenny on January 16, 2022, 04:02:56 PM
Quote from: Gmac on January 16, 2022, 03:51:49 PM
The Aussies and kiwis have lost the plot , he should never go back there again.

They've managed the pandemic better than anyone. Very few deaths and society almost completely open over the whole period.
misinformation a one way street ?

When we were in lockdown last year NZ and Australia enjoyed full crowds at their rugby games and other sporting events. Restaurants and bars were open also. They've been strict about people getting in but that's sensible.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: trueblue1234 on January 16, 2022, 04:23:51 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on January 16, 2022, 03:58:06 PM
Quote from: Gmac on January 16, 2022, 03:51:49 PM
The Aussies and kiwis have lost the plot , he should never go back there again.

Was thinking the same regarding the next Australian Open(s), if he doesn't go it will devalue the competition.

Not his choice I thought. Banned from Oz for 3 years is he not.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on January 16, 2022, 04:32:32 PM
Could he not just do farm work for a year or is that somethin different 😁
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: seafoid on January 17, 2022, 12:21:33 PM
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/tennis/2022/01/17/novak-djokovics-french-open-doubt-sports-minister-u-turns-vaccine/

Novak Djokovic's prospects of landing a 21st major title suffered another blow on Sunday night, when the French sports minister announced that vaccine passes would be required for visiting athletes at upcoming events.

If this position remains in force until May's French Open, then Djokovic could find himself missing a second major because of his refusal to be vaccinated. Unless, of course, he climbs down from his position and accepts the jab.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 17, 2022, 12:41:01 PM
Quote from: seafoid on January 17, 2022, 12:21:33 PM
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/tennis/2022/01/17/novak-djokovics-french-open-doubt-sports-minister-u-turns-vaccine/

Novak Djokovic's prospects of landing a 21st major title suffered another blow on Sunday night, when the French sports minister announced that vaccine passes would be required for visiting athletes at upcoming events.

If this position remains in force until May's French Open, then Djokovic could find himself missing a second major because of his refusal to be vaccinated. Unless, of course, he climbs down from his position and accepts the jab.

Nadal normally wins the French so it won't matter too much, if he's too principled on taking the vaccine then I can't see him taking it for the French, otherwise he'd have taken it already for the Aussie's..

But who knows where this virus will be in May, so he may not have to worry about that
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: RedHand88 on January 17, 2022, 12:42:24 PM
Quote from: Mikhail Prokhorov on January 16, 2022, 04:08:11 PM
the french might not let him play either

Geg!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Man Marker on January 17, 2022, 02:06:22 PM
i had a real laugh reading a whatsapp message from a mate who is always sending these funny things.

'the 47th best tennis player in the world who is vaccinated but has covid is in Australia, meanwhile the number one player in the world who is unvaccinated, has natural antibodies and has tested covid free has to leave' 

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: johnnycool on January 17, 2022, 07:17:02 PM
Quote from: Man Marker on January 17, 2022, 02:06:22 PM
i had a real laugh reading a whatsapp message from a mate who is always sending these funny things.

'the 47th best tennis player in the world who is vaccinated but has covid is in Australia, meanwhile the number one player in the world who is unvaccinated, has natural antibodies and has tested covid free has to leave'

Where did he get these antibodies when there's even doubts about his alleged testing positive on the 16th of December and felt that he could do press, fly to Spain and do presentations to young tennis players?

He's spun a web of lies and has been entangled in them.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Wildweasel74 on January 17, 2022, 07:46:49 PM
He's probably had Covid before, but to have it in time suddenly In December, to gain entry to Australia sounds like bullshit.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: David McKeown on January 20, 2022, 03:10:04 PM
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on January 17, 2022, 07:46:49 PM
He's probably had Covid before, but to have it in time suddenly In December, to gain entry to Australia sounds like bullshit.

Interestingly it seems from the Judgement that his visa was infact granted in November. There's no discussion as to how that came to be mind.

Judgement available here.

https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/full/2022/2022fcafc0003/_nocache
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Ghost on January 28, 2022, 12:12:08 PM
Nadal vs Medvedev in the final on Sunday. Nadal will have the opportunity to move to the top of the Grand Slam winners list outright. He's 17/10 or thereabouts so a big underdog.

In Nadal last 2 games he's he's been electric in the first 2 sets and began to tire from the 3rd onwards so going to need a fast start. Medvedev has been involved in some long games too but has always seemed to finish strongly and is probably a deserved favourite.

Hopefully we'll get a good contest on Sunday and a 21st for Rafa
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on January 28, 2022, 12:23:31 PM
Bbc casting doubt on timing of the positive covid test result for novak, serial no doesnt tally up...
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on January 30, 2022, 10:56:57 AM
Medvedev two sets up now. Though, that second set tie break could've have went either way. Medvedev definitely thrives playing the villain.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: David McKeown on January 30, 2022, 11:26:50 AM
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on January 28, 2022, 12:23:31 PM
Bbc casting doubt on timing of the positive covid test result for novak, serial no doesnt tally up...

The question I have is on what grounds was the visa granted in November
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on January 30, 2022, 12:50:20 PM
Quote from: Estimator on January 30, 2022, 10:56:57 AM
Medvedev two sets up now. Though, that second set tie break could've have went either way. Medvedev definitely thrives playing the villain.


Nadal not going away. Plenty of mistakes and poor shot selection from both sides. Looking like a 5 setter.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on January 30, 2022, 01:31:17 PM
Nadal really on top now. He should win it from here.

Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 30, 2022, 01:37:04 PM
These new players are not a patch on the top 3...
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 01:42:56 PM
Win or lose remarkable effort from Nadal to get back into this match. Don't know how both players are fit to continue these long rallies so far into the match. Great stuff
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 30, 2022, 02:13:48 PM
See Nadal over celebrating with the Aussie border control officials first. Fair play
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on January 30, 2022, 02:18:35 PM
Unreal match. Didn't see the comeback happening after the second set. Nadal looked done.

Nadal has the French open coming up, and could easily get himself to 22.

Wonder what Djokovic is thinking now?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 02:20:44 PM
Unbelievable comeback from Rafa!! I didn't think he had it in him to come back from 2-0 down. Top of the tree with 21 now
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 30, 2022, 02:24:58 PM
Quote from: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 02:20:44 PM
Unbelievable comeback from Rafa!! I didn't think he had it in him to come back from 2-0 down. Top of the tree with 21 now

Bit tainted this one on fairness, not that he's worried, brilliant performance to beat the world number 2, I laughed at one of the guys in the studio saying he's beat the number one seeded player !

You'd think these lads would know what they are talking about.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 02:30:37 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on January 30, 2022, 02:24:58 PM
Quote from: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 02:20:44 PM
Unbelievable comeback from Rafa!! I didn't think he had it in him to come back from 2-0 down. Top of the tree with 21 now

Bit tainted this one on fairness, not that he's worried, brilliant performance to beat the world number 2, I laughed at one of the guys in the studio saying he's beat the number one seeded player !

You'd think these lads would know what they are talking about.

Well the man he beat, made a wee boy of Djokovic on a hard court in the last grand Slam final so in my eyes it's a dam good performance. Nothing tainted about it
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 30, 2022, 02:36:40 PM
Quote from: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 02:30:37 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on January 30, 2022, 02:24:58 PM
Quote from: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 02:20:44 PM
Unbelievable comeback from Rafa!! I didn't think he had it in him to come back from 2-0 down. Top of the tree with 21 now

Bit tainted this one on fairness, not that he's worried, brilliant performance to beat the world number 2, I laughed at one of the guys in the studio saying he's beat the number one seeded player !

You'd think these lads would know what they are talking about.

Well the man he beat, made a wee boy of Djokovic on a hard court in the last grand Slam final so in my eyes it's a dam good performance. Nothing tainted about it

1 title against someone with 20 and you think he made a wee boy of him? Angelo it's ok, Nadal is amazing, these lads you were championing these last couple of years have proved to be false dawns
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 02:47:52 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on January 30, 2022, 02:36:40 PM
Quote from: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 02:30:37 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on January 30, 2022, 02:24:58 PM
Quote from: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 02:20:44 PM
Unbelievable comeback from Rafa!! I didn't think he had it in him to come back from 2-0 down. Top of the tree with 21 now

Bit tainted this one on fairness, not that he's worried, brilliant performance to beat the world number 2, I laughed at one of the guys in the studio saying he's beat the number one seeded player !

You'd think these lads would know what they are talking about.

Well the man he beat, made a wee boy of Djokovic on a hard court in the last grand Slam final so in my eyes it's a dam good performance. Nothing tainted about it

1 title against someone with 20 and you think he made a wee boy of him? Angelo it's ok, Nadal is amazing, these lads you were championing these last couple of years have proved to be false dawns

20 grand slams is irrelevant. Medvedev beat Djokovic 3-0 in the US open final so it's not like he's a complete mug. FFS he was more or less joint favourite before Djokovic got put on the plane home. So if Nadal can come from 2-0 to beat Medvedev, what's to say he couldn't beat Djokovic?

The fact you're assuming I'm another poster just shows you're being argumentative for the sake of it when in fact you're talking shi*t
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Wildweasel74 on January 30, 2022, 02:51:16 PM
Even though he's 1 ahead of Federer, I have Federer placed as a better player than him. Federer won a better spread of the big 4 titles L, where Nadal got the clay courts wrapped up and our popular Serb the Australian open on hard courts cornered.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 30, 2022, 02:59:19 PM
Quote from: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 02:47:52 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on January 30, 2022, 02:36:40 PM
Quote from: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 02:30:37 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on January 30, 2022, 02:24:58 PM
Quote from: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 02:20:44 PM
Unbelievable comeback from Rafa!! I didn't think he had it in him to come back from 2-0 down. Top of the tree with 21 now

Bit tainted this one on fairness, not that he's worried, brilliant performance to beat the world number 2, I laughed at one of the guys in the studio saying he's beat the number one seeded player !

You'd think these lads would know what they are talking about.

Well the man he beat, made a wee boy of Djokovic on a hard court in the last grand Slam final so in my eyes it's a dam good performance. Nothing tainted about it

1 title against someone with 20 and you think he made a wee boy of him? Angelo it's ok, Nadal is amazing, these lads you were championing these last couple of years have proved to be false dawns

20 grand slams is irrelevant. Medvedev beat Djokovic 3-0 in the US open final so it's not like he's a complete mug. FFS he was more or less joint favourite before Djokovic got put on the plane home. So if Nadal can come from 2-0 to beat Medvedev, what's to say he couldn't beat Djokovic?

The fact you're assuming I'm another poster just shows you're being argumentative for the sake of it when in fact you're talking shi*t

The fact that you are the same poster means nothing to the first part of your post, Novak is 19 times the better player to Medvedev, that's fact based on current titles.

We'll not know how well Novak could have played due to his stupidity and views on not taking the vaccine, he'll not be back in Australia now for 3 years, 3 possible chances.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 03:04:20 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on January 30, 2022, 02:59:19 PM
Quote from: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 02:47:52 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on January 30, 2022, 02:36:40 PM
Quote from: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 02:30:37 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on January 30, 2022, 02:24:58 PM
Quote from: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 02:20:44 PM
Unbelievable comeback from Rafa!! I didn't think he had it in him to come back from 2-0 down. Top of the tree with 21 now

Bit tainted this one on fairness, not that he's worried, brilliant performance to beat the world number 2, I laughed at one of the guys in the studio saying he's beat the number one seeded player !

You'd think these lads would know what they are talking about.

Well the man he beat, made a wee boy of Djokovic on a hard court in the last grand Slam final so in my eyes it's a dam good performance. Nothing tainted about it

1 title against someone with 20 and you think he made a wee boy of him? Angelo it's ok, Nadal is amazing, these lads you were championing these last couple of years have proved to be false dawns

20 grand slams is irrelevant. Medvedev beat Djokovic 3-0 in the US open final so it's not like he's a complete mug. FFS he was more or less joint favourite before Djokovic got put on the plane home. So if Nadal can come from 2-0 to beat Medvedev, what's to say he couldn't beat Djokovic?

The fact you're assuming I'm another poster just shows you're being argumentative for the sake of it when in fact you're talking shi*t

The fact that you are the same poster means nothing to the first part of your post, Novak is 19 times the better player to Medvedev, that's fact based on current titles.

We'll not know how well Novak could have played due to his stupidity and views on not taking the vaccine, he'll not be back in Australia now for 3 years, 3 possible chances.

I can assure you I've never been on this board before under a different alias. Djokovic at his peak is obviously a better player than Medvedev but in the here and now they are on a par. By you're reasoning sampras should be beating Medvedev
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: lenny on January 30, 2022, 03:11:50 PM
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on January 30, 2022, 02:51:16 PM
Even though he's 1 ahead of Federer, I have Federer placed as a better player than him. Federer won a better spread of the big 4 titles L, where Nadal got the clay courts wrapped up and our popular Serb the Australian open on hard courts cornered.

Totally agree. With today's win that makes Nadal the second best of all time behind Federer. Great final and great championship.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 30, 2022, 03:21:38 PM
Quote from: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 03:04:20 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on January 30, 2022, 02:59:19 PM
Quote from: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 02:47:52 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on January 30, 2022, 02:36:40 PM
Quote from: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 02:30:37 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on January 30, 2022, 02:24:58 PM
Quote from: Ghost on January 30, 2022, 02:20:44 PM
Unbelievable comeback from Rafa!! I didn't think he had it in him to come back from 2-0 down. Top of the tree with 21 now

Bit tainted this one on fairness, not that he's worried, brilliant performance to beat the world number 2, I laughed at one of the guys in the studio saying he's beat the number one seeded player !

You'd think these lads would know what they are talking about.

Well the man he beat, made a wee boy of Djokovic on a hard court in the last grand Slam final so in my eyes it's a dam good performance. Nothing tainted about it

1 title against someone with 20 and you think he made a wee boy of him? Angelo it's ok, Nadal is amazing, these lads you were championing these last couple of years have proved to be false dawns

20 grand slams is irrelevant. Medvedev beat Djokovic 3-0 in the US open final so it's not like he's a complete mug. FFS he was more or less joint favourite before Djokovic got put on the plane home. So if Nadal can come from 2-0 to beat Medvedev, what's to say he couldn't beat Djokovic?

The fact you're assuming I'm another poster just shows you're being argumentative for the sake of it when in fact you're talking shi*t

The fact that you are the same poster means nothing to the first part of your post, Novak is 19 times the better player to Medvedev, that's fact based on current titles.

We'll not know how well Novak could have played due to his stupidity and views on not taking the vaccine, he'll not be back in Australia now for 3 years, 3 possible chances.

I can assure you I've never been on this board before under a different alias. Djokovic at his peak is obviously a better player than Medvedev but in the here and now they are on a par. By you're reasoning sampras should be beating Medvedev

The here and now has Novak at the top of the tree on the current seedings, by a good distance on the points. But you're here and now seems to be more up to date than APT
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on January 30, 2022, 03:37:44 PM
Quote from: lenny on January 30, 2022, 03:11:50 PM
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on January 30, 2022, 02:51:16 PM
Even though he's 1 ahead of Federer, I have Federer placed as a better player than him. Federer won a better spread of the big 4 titles L, where Nadal got the clay courts wrapped up and our popular Serb the Australian open on hard courts cornered.

Totally agree. With today's win that makes Nadal the second best of all time behind Federer. Great final and great championship.

Of the 3, Novak and Rafa have multiple titles on all surfaces. Roger never managed that.

Nadal:
AO: 2
FO: 13
Wim: 2
USO: 4

Novak:
AO: 9
FO: 2
Wim: 6
USO: 3

Roger:
AO: 6
FO: 1
Wim: 8
USO: 5
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on January 30, 2022, 03:52:22 PM
Quote from: lenny on January 30, 2022, 03:11:50 PM
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on January 30, 2022, 02:51:16 PM
Even though he's 1 ahead of Federer, I have Federer placed as a better player than him. Federer won a better spread of the big 4 titles L, where Nadal got the clay courts wrapped up and our popular Serb the Australian open on hard courts cornered.

Totally agree. With today's win that makes Nadal the second best of all time behind Federer. Great final and great championship.

;D Rafa owns Federer head to head, always has

Novak is the clear GOAT however
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on April 22, 2022, 02:07:48 PM
Wimbledon banning players from Russia and Belarus from this summers championship - racism is alive and well.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: smelmoth on April 22, 2022, 02:20:23 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on April 22, 2022, 02:07:48 PM
Wimbledon banning players from Russia and Belarus from this summers championship - racism is alive and well.

Sporting sanctions have their place. The idiocy of claiming sanctions are racist against a country should not need pointing out.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on May 31, 2022, 10:03:14 PM
This is some game between two greats
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Ghost on June 03, 2022, 05:33:11 PM
Sad end to what was already an epic match. Shouldn't be too long before Zverev wins one. Hard to see Nadal not winning now.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 03, 2022, 05:35:38 PM
Unfortunate but even had he stayed I could still see Nadal seeing it out, this surface is right up his street..
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on June 03, 2022, 05:54:41 PM
Near 3 hrs and not even 2 sets done. On its way to being an epic. Yer mans ankle took some twist
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on June 03, 2022, 07:41:27 PM
Wouldn't call it an epic as there was some really awful play from both of them in that second set. Lost serve six times between them?

Zverev looked much better in the first and was hitting Nadal off the court at times but Nadal pulled out three incredible passing shots that were worthy of any of his matches against Federer or Djokovic.

Horrible injury, hopefully he won't be out too long and it's just a really bad sprain but the ankle completely folded under him.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on June 03, 2022, 07:59:18 PM
Nadal some boy to save 4 set points. One worldie of a pass and then similar to win the set.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on June 05, 2022, 05:15:11 PM
Vamos Rafa

Only the 3rd time a slam has been won beating 4 players in the top 10, incredible

Can he get 20 french opens  ;D
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: yellowcard on June 05, 2022, 09:54:01 PM
It's some achievement by Nadal but it must be an indictment on the quality of player coming through that Djokovic and Nadal are still able to dominate the ATP tour into their mid 30s.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Dougal Maguire on June 29, 2022, 05:58:15 PM
I see that Romanian player Emma Raducanu has been beaten at Wimbledon
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 29, 2022, 06:00:30 PM
Quote from: Dougal Maguire on June 29, 2022, 05:58:15 PM
I see that Romanian player Emma Raducanu has been beaten at Wimbledon

Actually born in Canada
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: JPGJOHNNYG on June 29, 2022, 06:34:22 PM
Quote from: Dougal Maguire on June 29, 2022, 05:58:15 PM
I see that Romanian player Emma Raducanu has been beaten at Wimbledon

So was the us open a fluke, or is she just not that bothered already or is she injured. Dont follow tennis much so genuinely asking. Also can they not just ban that sc**bag Kyrgios. Every event he is messing around.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Nanderson on June 29, 2022, 06:37:55 PM
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on June 29, 2022, 06:34:22 PM
Quote from: Dougal Maguire on June 29, 2022, 05:58:15 PM
I see that Romanian player Emma Raducanu has been beaten at Wimbledon

So was the us open a fluke, or is she just not that bothered already or is she injured. Dont follow tennis much so genuinely asking. Also can they not just ban that sc**bag Kyrgios. Every event he is messing around.
Pulled out of a tournament couple of weeks before wimbledon so dont think shes fully fit. Just seen a stat saying she is the 4th youngest person in the draw this year which is some stat considering she already is a grand slam champion

Quote from: Dougal Maguire on June 29, 2022, 05:58:15 PM
I see that Romanian player Emma Raducanu has been beaten at Wimbledon
When determining her ethnicity why did you just choose her dads side? Is it because thats what she looks like to you? Remember she has a romanian father, chinese mother, born in canada and lived in the UK since she was 2
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Dougal Maguire on June 29, 2022, 07:41:04 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on June 29, 2022, 06:37:55 PM
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on June 29, 2022, 06:34:22 PM
Quote from: Dougal Maguire on June 29, 2022, 05:58:15 PM
I see that Romanian player Emma Raducanu has been beaten at Wimbledon

So was the us open a fluke, or is she just not that bothered already or is she injured. Dont follow tennis much so genuinely asking. Also can they not just ban that sc**bag Kyrgios. Every event he is messing around.
Pulled out of a tournament couple of weeks before wimbledon so dont think shes fully fit. Just seen a stat saying she is the 4th youngest person in the draw this year which is some stat considering she already is a grand slam champion

Quote from: Dougal Maguire on June 29, 2022, 05:58:15 PM
I see that Romanian player Emma Raducanu has been beaten at Wimbledon
When determining her ethnicity why did you just choose her dads side? Is it because thats what she looks like to you? Remember she has a romanian father, chinese mother, born in canada and lived in the UK since she was 2
Jesus man, loosen up. It was a tongue in cheek remark influenced by the fact the the Brits tend to claim winners but ignore those less successful. I was gonna say that Scotland's Andy Murray is under pressure but perhaps I'd better not
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Nanderson on June 29, 2022, 07:43:10 PM
Quote from: Dougal Maguire on June 29, 2022, 07:41:04 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on June 29, 2022, 06:37:55 PM
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on June 29, 2022, 06:34:22 PM
Quote from: Dougal Maguire on June 29, 2022, 05:58:15 PM
I see that Romanian player Emma Raducanu has been beaten at Wimbledon

So was the us open a fluke, or is she just not that bothered already or is she injured. Dont follow tennis much so genuinely asking. Also can they not just ban that sc**bag Kyrgios. Every event he is messing around.
Pulled out of a tournament couple of weeks before wimbledon so dont think shes fully fit. Just seen a stat saying she is the 4th youngest person in the draw this year which is some stat considering she already is a grand slam champion

Quote from: Dougal Maguire on June 29, 2022, 05:58:15 PM
I see that Romanian player Emma Raducanu has been beaten at Wimbledon
When determining her ethnicity why did you just choose her dads side? Is it because thats what she looks like to you? Remember she has a romanian father, chinese mother, born in canada and lived in the UK since she was 2
Jesus man, loosen up. It was a tongue in cheek remark influenced by the fact the the Brits tend to claim winners but ignore those less successful. I was gonna say that Scotland's Andy Murray is under pressure but perhaps I'd better not
Apologies. I see now there was no harm in it
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Dougal Maguire on June 29, 2022, 08:03:05 PM
I feel sorry for poor oul Boris Becker. Assuming lockup is at 8 o'clock he'll be missing all these late games
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on June 29, 2022, 09:02:21 PM
Jesus dougal. Thats the romanians the brits the chinese and the germans youve offended now. All in half a day.

Im outraged
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Dougal Maguire on June 29, 2022, 09:11:23 PM
The Chinese, a great bunch of lads
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: pbat on July 02, 2022, 08:10:43 PM
There could be a bigger brawl at Wimbledon than between Armagh Galway, pure shithousery of the highest order.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Nanderson on July 02, 2022, 08:37:23 PM
Quote from: pbat on July 02, 2022, 08:10:43 PM
There could be a bigger brawl at Wimbledon than between Armagh Galway, pure shithousery of the highest order.
Bowing after winning a point of a net drop is such a scummy thing to do
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: pbat on July 02, 2022, 08:44:13 PM
https://twitter.com/lmechegaray/status/1543310421528117249
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: yellowcard on July 02, 2022, 09:35:30 PM
He's a massive cnut but it's great entertainment.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: pbat on July 02, 2022, 09:38:00 PM
Get the most enjoyment out of how much he pisses the BBC snobs off.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on July 07, 2022, 07:56:14 PM
Nadal out  :'(
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on July 07, 2022, 08:54:15 PM
Quote from: Nanderson on July 02, 2022, 08:37:23 PM
Quote from: pbat on July 02, 2022, 08:10:43 PM
There could be a bigger brawl at Wimbledon than between Armagh Galway, pure shithousery of the highest order.
Bowing after winning a point of a net drop is such a scummy thing to do

You wouldn't see any restraint if a footballer scores a goal that came from a wicked deflection.  Same should apply here too.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: markl121 on July 07, 2022, 08:57:21 PM
Quote from: Mikhail Prokhorov on July 07, 2022, 07:56:14 PM
Nadal out  :'(
Gutted. Glad he didn't pull out when losing like the majority do. The fact he won was very impressive
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on July 07, 2022, 09:15:15 PM
Although youve got to admire his battling qualities i wouldve liked to have seen Fritz (?) against Krygios, also a bit of an anti climax theres only one semi now

Anticlimax, one semi, bit like my sex life snarf snarf.
Ill stop now
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 07, 2022, 10:00:45 PM
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 07, 2022, 09:15:15 PM
Although youve got to admire his battling qualities i wouldve liked to have seen Fritz (?) against Krygios, also a bit of an anti climax theres only one semi now

Anticlimax, one semi, bit like my sex life snarf snarf.
Ill stop now

I think at 5 nil up on tiebreaker he should have stepped away, the injury was obvious to him that he wasn't going to be competitive two days later against Krygios and at least give him that shot
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on July 07, 2022, 11:03:26 PM
Quote from: markl121 on July 07, 2022, 08:57:21 PM
Quote from: Mikhail Prokhorov on July 07, 2022, 07:56:14 PM
Nadal out  :'(
Gutted. Glad he didn't pull out when losing like the majority do. The fact he won was very impressive

If I was the guy that he beat in the quarter final then I would be very pissed off. Why don't they let the beaten quarterfinalist play?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 07, 2022, 11:18:37 PM
Because he let a clearly injured man beat him, if Nadal knew how bad he was he shoulda retired before end of tiebreaker
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 07, 2022, 11:30:20 PM
Quote from: Duine Inteacht Eile on July 07, 2022, 11:23:42 PM
Fcuk that. People like him aren't programmed to do anything else but win. The way it should be.

I get that, I'd just feel short changed if I was a punter that got lucky enough to have tickets for mens semi finals day at Wimbledon



Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: GiveItToTheShooters on July 08, 2022, 12:30:48 AM
Quote from: Orior on July 07, 2022, 11:03:26 PM
Quote from: markl121 on July 07, 2022, 08:57:21 PM
Quote from: Mikhail Prokhorov on July 07, 2022, 07:56:14 PM
Nadal out  :'(
Gutted. Glad he didn't pull out when losing like the majority do. The fact he won was very impressive

If I was the guy that he beat in the quarter final then I would be very pissed off. Why don't they let the beaten quarterfinalist play?
Because he lost, obviously.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: GiveItToTheShooters on July 08, 2022, 12:32:12 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 07, 2022, 11:30:20 PM
Quote from: Duine Inteacht Eile on July 07, 2022, 11:23:42 PM
Fcuk that. People like him aren't programmed to do anything else but win. The way it should be.

I get that, I'd just feel short changed if I was a punter that got lucky enough to have tickets for mens semi finals day at Wimbledon
Tough, the rules don't care for whether you have a ticket or not. If Nadal can't play his opponent advances, simple really. You'll get your refund.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: pbat on July 08, 2022, 12:42:08 AM
https://twitter.com/Wimbledon/status/1545153682987032576
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: markl121 on July 08, 2022, 08:24:53 AM
Quote from: Orior on July 07, 2022, 11:03:26 PM
Quote from: markl121 on July 07, 2022, 08:57:21 PM
Quote from: Mikhail Prokhorov on July 07, 2022, 07:56:14 PM
Nadal out  :'(
Gutted. Glad he didn't pull out when losing like the majority do. The fact he won was very impressive

If I was the guy that he beat in the quarter final then I would be very pissed off. Why don't they let the beaten quarterfinalist play?
I thought it was class, usually you see someone who's losing pull out "injured" the fact that he played on, won and then pulled out is very refreshing. He didn't look for the easy way out
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on July 08, 2022, 08:43:00 AM
Quote from: markl121 on July 08, 2022, 08:24:53 AM
Quote from: Orior on July 07, 2022, 11:03:26 PM
Quote from: markl121 on July 07, 2022, 08:57:21 PM
Quote from: Mikhail Prokhorov on July 07, 2022, 07:56:14 PM
Nadal out  :'(
Gutted. Glad he didn't pull out when losing like the majority do. The fact he won was very impressive

If I was the guy that he beat in the quarter final then I would be very pissed off. Why don't they let the beaten quarterfinalist play?
I thought it was class, usually you see someone who's losing pull out "injured" the fact that he played on, won and then pulled out is very refreshing. He didn't look for the easy way out

Agreed.  The fella he beat wasn't good enough and I'm sure the players are playing each game as it comes and not thinking about the next day out.  It was crazy to see Nadal winning given he was basically hitting 2nd serves for a lot of the match.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Capt Pat on July 09, 2022, 04:07:30 PM
Despite their best efforts the Brits couldn't stop a Russian winning Wimbledon. She doesn't seem too bothered about it all.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 09, 2022, 04:43:51 PM
Quote from: Capt Pat on July 09, 2022, 04:07:30 PM
Despite their best efforts the Brits couldn't stop a Russian winning Wimbledon. She doesn't seem too bothered about it all.

Representing Kazakstan... bit like the kiwi yesterday representing the Brits..
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 09, 2022, 04:46:43 PM
Or Christ knows what percentage of the Irish rugby team over the last few years.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on July 10, 2022, 05:34:14 PM
the goat wins his 21st  ;D

doing all they can to stop him getting the record but won't stop him
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: quit yo jibbajabba on July 10, 2022, 06:05:56 PM
Would usually shout for the underdog but thon Krygios a hard boy to like. Theres gettin yerself angry to perform then theres that there....
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Capt Pat on August 31, 2022, 09:16:40 AM
Raducanu was beaten in the first round of the US open after winning it last year. Why has she failed to reach the heights she reached last year? Is it because shortly after winning the US Open she replaced her coaching team with a new coaching team? It doesn't seem to have helped.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on August 31, 2022, 09:27:31 AM
Quote from: Capt Pat on August 31, 2022, 09:16:40 AM
Raducanu was beaten in the first round of the US open after winning it last year. Why has she failed to reach the heights she reached last year? Is it because shortly after winning the US Open she replaced her coaching team with a new coaching team? It doesn't seem to have helped.

Probably won it a couple of years too early in her development, but no one can take that away from her now.. Few years to mature and develop further, she could get better just very patchy at the minute with her form


Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: nrico2006 on August 31, 2022, 12:50:23 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 31, 2022, 09:27:31 AM
Quote from: Capt Pat on August 31, 2022, 09:16:40 AM
Raducanu was beaten in the first round of the US open after winning it last year. Why has she failed to reach the heights she reached last year? Is it because shortly after winning the US Open she replaced her coaching team with a new coaching team? It doesn't seem to have helped.

Probably won it a couple of years too early in her development, but no one can take that away from her now.. Few years to mature and develop further, she could get better just very patchy at the minute with her form

Has she not changed coaches a few times. Maybe it was just a lucky win, I would nearly guess that she has lost more than she has one since last year's US open win.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Nanderson on August 31, 2022, 04:10:34 PM
Quote from: nrico2006 on August 31, 2022, 12:50:23 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on August 31, 2022, 09:27:31 AM
Quote from: Capt Pat on August 31, 2022, 09:16:40 AM
Raducanu was beaten in the first round of the US open after winning it last year. Why has she failed to reach the heights she reached last year? Is it because shortly after winning the US Open she replaced her coaching team with a new coaching team? It doesn't seem to have helped.

Probably won it a couple of years too early in her development, but no one can take that away from her now.. Few years to mature and develop further, she could get better just very patchy at the minute with her form

Has she not changed coaches a few times. Maybe it was just a lucky win, I would nearly guess that she has lost more than she has one since last year's US open win.
I don't think it's possible that you can win 10 straight games over 3 weeks without dropping a set just by luck. There is no doubt that the draw she got was favourable with the big guns all taking each other out quite early in the tournament. You can't underestimate the difference going into a tournament as a qualifier ranked 200 odd in the world with no expectations or pressure compared to being the defending champion and basically having nearly all her ranking points being linked to one tournament.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Estimator on August 31, 2022, 04:33:08 PM
Prediction is that she drops from 11th in world rankings, all the way down to the 80s due to the loss of her ranking pts. Might lift some of the pressure, but she'll always be a target victory for her peers.
Based on some of the reports I've read, Cornet is no slouch, was playing in her 63rd consecutive slam (a record) and has a number of big scalps in this year's majors.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on September 01, 2022, 08:16:10 AM
The way it works in tennis, you have to "defend" your points from one year to the next. As last year's US Open win was such a massive outlier in her career, losing all those points will send her plummeting. Has she won three matches at a tournament since?

Cornet is a seasoned veteran on tour playing some of her best tennis, but she's also 32 and has made one GS quarter final in her career, albeit that was earlier this year. Whatever the reasons - injury, mismanagement, coaching changes etc, Raducanu's form (or lack thereof) is alarming and clearly more than just a blip.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: JPGJOHNNYG on September 01, 2022, 09:32:48 AM
Quote from: gallsman on September 01, 2022, 08:16:10 AM
The way it works in tennis, you have to "defend" your points from one year to the next. As last year's US Open win was such a massive outlier in her career, losing all those points will send her plummeting. Has she won three matches at a tournament since?

Cornet is a seasoned veteran on tour playing some of her best tennis, but she's also 32 and has made one GS quarter final in her career, albeit that was earlier this year. Whatever the reasons - injury, mismanagement, coaching changes etc, Raducanu's form (or lack thereof) is alarming and clearly more than just a blip.

Agree. It's a bit like a number of the young English footballers around. It's almost a case of job done money made, just sit back and relax and then they wonder why their form drops off a cliff when not much effort being put in.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Dougal Maguire on January 18, 2023, 06:34:16 PM
With a Grade C in my O Level Maths I'm thinking of contacting the person who nominated Emma Raducanu for an MBE for services to tennis to see if he could get me one for services to numeracy
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Ghost on January 18, 2023, 06:39:45 PM
Nadal a sorry sight at the minute. Absolutely wrecked by injuries. hard to see him continuing much longer.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Nanderson on January 18, 2023, 07:31:42 PM
Quote from: Dougal Maguire on January 18, 2023, 06:34:16 PM
With a Grade C in my O Level Maths I'm thinking of contacting the person who nominated Emma Raducanu for an MBE for services to tennis to see if he could get me one for services to numeracy
If thats the highest grade anyone in your country got for 40 odd years you'd maybe have an argument

Quote from: Ghost on January 18, 2023, 06:39:45 PM
Nadal a sorry sight at the minute. Absolutely wrecked by injuries. hard to see him continuing much longer.
I fear that this years French Open might just be his final tournament if he can clear up his injuries in time to compete
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Tony Baloney on January 18, 2023, 07:51:11 PM
Quote from: Ghost on January 18, 2023, 06:39:45 PM
Nadal a sorry sight at the minute. Absolutely wrecked by injuries. hard to see him continuing much longer.
He has a lot of miles on the clock. Retire at the top and get the hair done.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Dougal Maguire on January 19, 2023, 10:10:25 AM
Quote from: Nanderson on January 18, 2023, 07:31:42 PM
Quote from: Dougal Maguire on January 18, 2023, 06:34:16 PM
With a Grade C in my O Level Maths I'm thinking of contacting the person who nominated Emma Raducanu for an MBE for services to tennis to see if he could get me one for services to numeracy
If thats the highest grade anyone in your country got for 40 odd years you'd maybe have an argument
Well using the Emma scenario it would also depend on everyone else that sat the exam in the previous 40 years being reasonably thick
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mrdeeds on January 19, 2023, 05:39:11 PM
Andy Murray won a 5hr 45 match there at 4am with a metal hip. He also got one of the best points you'll ever see. Remarkable stuff. Two days after another 5 setter.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Nanderson on January 19, 2023, 06:55:06 PM
Quote from: mrdeeds on January 19, 2023, 05:39:11 PM
Andy Murray won a 5hr 45 match there at 4am with a metal hip. He also got one of the best points you'll ever see. Remarkable stuff. Two days after another 5 setter.
He's a warrior. Started to win over some of the aussie crowd rocky-esque
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Armamike on January 19, 2023, 07:03:53 PM
Amazing comeback.  Has anyone ever played at this level with a metal hip before?!
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Nanderson on January 19, 2023, 07:18:49 PM
Quote from: Armamike on January 19, 2023, 07:03:53 PM
Amazing comeback.  Has anyone ever played at this level with a metal hip before?!
Think one of the bryan brothers had the exact same surgery late in their career but doubles would be a lot less intense on the body. I'd imagine if he ever wins a ATP500/1000 he'll have done so much more than he could have imagined with this hip
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on January 29, 2023, 11:47:00 AM
The goat is back
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Ghost on January 29, 2023, 12:32:34 PM
He'll probably add another couple before the years out. None of the younger lads can get near him. Don't know if this Alvarez lad will be any sort of a match for him when he comes back either.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Ghost on June 09, 2023, 04:23:53 PM
In reference to my last post on here Alvarez is definitely a match for Djokovic on clay at the least. A real gruelling match on going at the moment. Hoping Alvarez can get the job done. Always late good to see a new young talent really announce themselves.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Saffrongael on June 09, 2023, 04:33:15 PM
Alcaraz
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Ghost on June 09, 2023, 04:39:28 PM
Quote from: Saffrongael on June 09, 2023, 04:33:15 PM
Alcaraz

One of those days chap lol

Not looking good for him now anyway
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on June 09, 2023, 07:53:27 PM
Novak is on his way to being the goat (though I'd say he already was) can't see anyone reaching that number of grand slams
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: From the Bunker on June 09, 2023, 08:17:57 PM
Good to see Novak motor on after the Australian fiasco.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Mikhail Prokhorov on June 11, 2023, 08:22:39 PM
30 slams incoming
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: square_ball on June 11, 2023, 08:47:11 PM
Quote from: Mikhail Prokhorov on June 11, 2023, 08:22:39 PM
30 slams incoming

You would imagine so. He's still so much better than any of the next generation coming through.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Nanderson on June 11, 2023, 08:50:38 PM
Quote from: square_ball on June 11, 2023, 08:47:11 PM
Quote from: Mikhail Prokhorov on June 11, 2023, 08:22:39 PM
30 slams incoming

You would imagine so. He's still so much better than any of the next generation coming through.
Alcaraz on his day would run him close especially on clay. No one will touch him on grass this year and only medvedev looks to match him on hard court
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2023, 02:54:42 PM
At last he's making Novak work
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2023, 04:12:06 PM
Great second set.. 1-1 proper final
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Ghost on July 16, 2023, 06:48:41 PM
Hope he serves it out from here. What a talent.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Ghost on July 16, 2023, 06:53:58 PM
There is a new man at the helm of mens tennis
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: SambaSaffron on July 16, 2023, 06:55:12 PM
Great to see, Alcaraz is class to watch.

Djokovic is one unlikeable bellend, and Andrew Castles should never commentate on another match.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: clarshack on July 16, 2023, 06:57:49 PM
Quote from: Ghost on July 16, 2023, 06:53:58 PM
There is a new man at the helm of mens tennis

Watched it before and after the All-Ireland semi. Was a good Wimbledon Final and the 20 year old Spaniard has a great future now.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2023, 06:59:43 PM
A cracking final and there can be no excuses the best player won, he's number one for a reason this year and showed all the qualities that you need.

Novak won't going away, unlike samba, I really like him, he's a winner and the best ever
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: yellowcard on July 16, 2023, 07:01:37 PM
Glad to see Alcaraz win, he could dominate for the next decade. Also puts a nail in Djokovics ambition to do the calendar slam, while he is a great player he has always been a very hard lad to warm to.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: From the Bunker on July 16, 2023, 07:03:53 PM
Quote from: yellowcard on July 16, 2023, 07:01:37 PM
Glad to see Alcaraz win, he could dominate for the next decade. Also puts a nail in Djokovics ambition to do the calendar slam, while he is a great player he has always been a very hard lad to warm to.

Djokovic is hard to warm to for the conservative mainstream. But he is his own man! And I have grown to admire him for that.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Ghost on July 16, 2023, 07:09:27 PM
Quote from: clarshack on July 16, 2023, 06:57:49 PM
Quote from: Ghost on July 16, 2023, 06:53:58 PM
There is a new man at the helm of mens tennis

Watched it before and after the All-Ireland semi. Was a good Wimbledon Final and the 20 year old Spaniard has a great future now.

Much the same as that. Very impressive to do it considering the way he lost the 1st set. Djokovic very unlikeable to me but you have to admire him. Hopefully a repeat at the us open with Djokovic perhaps turning him over there. Tennis needs Djokovic to keep going because if he doesn't Alcaraz will roll them
All over
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: mrdeeds on July 16, 2023, 07:50:33 PM
Quote from: From the Bunker on July 16, 2023, 07:03:53 PM
Quote from: yellowcard on July 16, 2023, 07:01:37 PM
Glad to see Alcaraz win, he could dominate for the next decade. Also puts a nail in Djokovics ambition to do the calendar slam, while he is a great player he has always been a very hard lad to warm to.

Djokovic is hard to warm to for the conservative mainstream. But he is his own man! And I have grown to admire him for that.

Warmed to him smashing racquets or giving out to crowd for supporting a player. Cheats taking too long serving and as for the break he took today.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: yellowcard on July 16, 2023, 07:53:25 PM
Quote from: From the Bunker on July 16, 2023, 07:03:53 PM
Quote from: yellowcard on July 16, 2023, 07:01:37 PM
Glad to see Alcaraz win, he could dominate for the next decade. Also puts a nail in Djokovics ambition to do the calendar slam, while he is a great player he has always been a very hard lad to warm to.

Djokovic is hard to warm to for the conservative mainstream. But he is his own man! And I have grown to admire him for that.

I'm neither conservative or mainstream, great player but I just don't like the bloke. Absolutely nothing to do with being an anti vaxxer either if thats what you're referring to.   
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: GiveItToTheShooters on July 16, 2023, 07:56:18 PM
Djokovic the yap can cry more. Alcaraz is some boy
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2023, 08:33:02 PM
Quote from: GiveItToTheShooters on July 16, 2023, 07:56:18 PM
Djokovic the yap can cry more. Alcaraz is some boy

He's brilliant but I'll judge him when/if he gets to 23 slams or more
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: GiveItToTheShooters on July 16, 2023, 09:14:24 PM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2023, 08:33:02 PM
Quote from: GiveItToTheShooters on July 16, 2023, 07:56:18 PM
Djokovic the yap can cry more. Alcaraz is some boy

He's brilliant but I'll judge him when/if he gets to 23 slams or more
Judge him whenever you want, he's world number one and Wimbledon champion. The Djokovic fan boys are hurting tonight I see. Alcaraz didn't get out of third gear
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Captain Obvious on July 16, 2023, 09:18:18 PM
Quote from: mrdeeds on July 16, 2023, 07:50:33 PM
Quote from: From the Bunker on July 16, 2023, 07:03:53 PM
Quote from: yellowcard on July 16, 2023, 07:01:37 PM
Glad to see Alcaraz win, he could dominate for the next decade. Also puts a nail in Djokovics ambition to do the calendar slam, while he is a great player he has always been a very hard lad to warm to.

Djokovic is hard to warm to for the conservative mainstream. But he is his own man! And I have grown to admire him for that.

Warmed to him smashing racquets or giving out to crowd for supporting a player. Cheats taking too long serving and as for the break he took today.
Didn't one of the women get disqualified for throwing her racquet on the ground during the week, must be different rules in men's tennis?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on July 16, 2023, 09:22:52 PM
It was more than once she threw the racquet though. Not sure she lost the match over it but definitely penalised.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 16, 2023, 10:29:06 PM
Quote from: From the Bunker on July 16, 2023, 07:03:53 PM
Quote from: yellowcard on July 16, 2023, 07:01:37 PM
Glad to see Alcaraz win, he could dominate for the next decade. Also puts a nail in Djokovics ambition to do the calendar slam, while he is a great player he has always been a very hard lad to warm to.

Djokovic is hard to warm to for the conservative mainstream. But he is his own man! And I have grown to admire him for that.

It's nothing to do with the conservative mainstream ffs. It's because he's a ****!

His entire career is littered with example after example of him being a bellend. He has never and will never be loved by the crowd the way Federer and Nadal were/are and it's always clearly annoyed him.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 16, 2023, 10:33:49 PM
Quote from: Ghost on July 16, 2023, 06:53:58 PM
There is a new man at the helm of mens tennis

Very good btw! I thought Castle was going to do it again for the final point but he changed it. Even the way Alcaraz feel to the ground was reminiscent of Nadal.

Difference with Alcaraz is that he's won and knocked off Djokovic while still basically learning to play on grass. Nadal possibly should have won in 07 and by the time 08 came around, he'd steamrollered Federer to such an extent in the final of the French that many people fancied him for it. Alcaraz, while number 1, really wasn't supposed to be able to win here just yet, especially after his collapse in the semi at RG.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2023, 10:54:25 PM
Quote from: gallsman on July 16, 2023, 10:33:49 PM
Quote from: Ghost on July 16, 2023, 06:53:58 PM
There is a new man at the helm of mens tennis

Very good btw! I thought Castle was going to do it again for the final point but he changed it. Even the way Alcaraz feel to the ground was reminiscent of Nadal.

Difference with Alcaraz is that he's won and knocked off Djokovic while still basically learning to play on grass. Nadal possibly should have won in 07 and by the time 08 came around, he'd steamrollered Federer to such an extent in the final of the French that many people fancied him for it. Alcaraz, while number 1, really wasn't supposed to be able to win here just yet, especially after his collapse in the semi at RG.

We can argue over his attitude, views, personality and whatever else that gets people worked up but he's the best ever at this sport.

Alcaraz is the real deal though, I really hope he brings that to every slam, it's about time that the shadows of Roger, Novak and Nadal are finally slipping off into the sunset
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on July 18, 2023, 09:16:01 AM
How long before start to dislike Alcaraz? Some people can't help but dislike winners.

His vaccine views aside, I always liked Djokovic as he enjoyed a laugh.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on July 18, 2023, 09:40:36 AM
It was the lies though not the views on the vaccine that a lot had the problem with - that seems to have been completely lost. He was widely disliked before the vaccine stuff tbh. I think he might be more popular after it lol. Definitely, for some reason, he has never had the popularity of Nadal or Federer.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: gallsman on July 18, 2023, 09:50:25 AM
When Djokovic first came on the scene he was very funny, did all the impressions of other players' quirks, motions etc.

He very quickly became disliked for his quitting (yes, before his preacher man placed some bread on him and diagnosed him as gluten intolerant leading him to eliminate gluten from his diet and turn into a super human he used to quit. A lot. Game going against him and he'd just give up.) gamesmanship and antics. All players do it to an extent, but he completely takes the piss and always has done.

The stunts around the vaccine, visa and initial refusal to accept his DQ at the US Open are only recent examples of attitudes hardening against him.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 18, 2023, 09:58:27 AM
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 18, 2023, 09:40:36 AM
It was the lies though not the views on the vaccine that a lot had the problem with - that seems to have been completely lost. He was widely disliked before the vaccine stuff tbh. I think he might be more popular after it lol. Definitely, for some reason, he has never had the popularity of Nadal or Federer.

Its not a popularity competition though, these guys are even more single minded than golf players, they have been in serious competition from the age of 8 or 9 in some cases. I tend to find that most of them when on court are in the zone and not really much craic, Federer in his early days was a bit of a brat and Nadal doesn't seem to be as nice a guy as people think either. Certainly Murray gets a bad rap too just because he doesn't smile enough.

The vaccine approach from Novak was questionable, with the telling fibs it wasn't a good look and didn't help.

As a sports man he's unreal though and I'll be hoping he doesn't fade away too soon
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on July 18, 2023, 10:02:45 AM
It's not but that's what people were talking about...

Obviously he's fantastic. You see it in some GAA players too those kind of behaviours - it's just people who can't accept losing.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: AustinPowers on July 18, 2023, 01:39:20 PM
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 18, 2023, 09:40:36 AM
It was the lies though not the views on the vaccine that a lot had the problem with - that seems to have been completely lost. He was widely disliked before the vaccine stuff tbh. I think he might be more popular after it lol. Definitely, for some reason, he has never had the popularity of Nadal or Federer.

It was the Australian state's laws  on  forced vaccination  that was the  problem in my book. Not Djokovic's lies or refusal  to take it.  I thought it was gutless by  the other tennis pros who  sat there and said nothing  while Djokovic took the fall.

I was nonplussed  about Djokovic  for years.  But  I was so glad to see him  go back to the Australian open  the following year and win it.  A great way to stick two fingers up  at them.  I was rooting  for him on  Sunday but Alcatraz was brilliant , so  fair play
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: WT4E on July 18, 2023, 10:55:25 PM
Love watching the Tennis. Would ove to see if my children liked or where any good at it as they grow up but not sure it suits a Tyrone GAA family. Anyone any experience advise on getting kids into it from a rural area?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 18, 2023, 11:25:10 PM
Quote from: WT4E on July 18, 2023, 10:55:25 PM
Love watching the Tennis. Would ove to see if my children liked or where any good at it as they grow up but not sure it suits a Tyrone GAA family. Anyone any experience advise on getting kids into it from a rural area?

It's like any sport, get them in early as these guys at Wimbledon have been playing from year dot...

My daughter absolutely loves it, obsessed with Serena but remember taking her to a tennis court at the Uni besides me, she was all up for it, ready to give it the max! Couldn't hit a ball lol!!

It's a very technical sport, timing, coordination and so on, she still loves it but playing, no

I know a crowd that play doubles at the place near the Lagan, the youngest in the doubles is 75

Watch the Netflix show, Break point,  brilliant
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: imtommygunn on July 19, 2023, 08:25:53 AM
I would have thought it's one of those sports you need to start young. Any local tennis clubs?
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: WT4E on July 19, 2023, 10:08:34 PM
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 19, 2023, 08:25:53 AM
I would have thought it's one of those sports you need to start young. Any local tennis clubs?

Local town doesn't have a club I don't think. But next town do Dungannon/Omagh I suppose I could get in contact.

Appears a protestant thing to do but maybe that says more about me than the clubs. 🙂
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 19, 2023, 10:12:14 PM
Quote from: WT4E on July 19, 2023, 10:08:34 PM
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 19, 2023, 08:25:53 AM
I would have thought it's one of those sports you need to start young. Any local tennis clubs?

Local town doesn't have a club I don't think. But next town do Dungannon/Omagh I suppose I could get in contact.

Appears a protestant thing to do but maybe that says more about me than the clubs. 🙂

Find a summer camp, there are plenty in Belfast, my youngest did one on the circular rd off the Antrim rd facing the Landsown.. well run
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Orior on July 20, 2023, 10:34:02 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 19, 2023, 10:12:14 PM
Quote from: WT4E on July 19, 2023, 10:08:34 PM
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 19, 2023, 08:25:53 AM
I would have thought it's one of those sports you need to start young. Any local tennis clubs?

Local town doesn't have a club I don't think. But next town do Dungannon/Omagh I suppose I could get in contact.

Appears a protestant thing to do but maybe that says more about me than the clubs. 🙂

Find a summer camp, there are plenty in Belfast, my youngest did one on the circular rd off the Antrim rd facing the Landsown.. well run

They're shit at responding to any requests on Facebook.
Title: Re: The Official Tennis Thread
Post by: Milltown Row2 on July 20, 2023, 10:38:28 AM
Quote from: Orior on July 20, 2023, 10:34:02 AM
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 19, 2023, 10:12:14 PM
Quote from: WT4E on July 19, 2023, 10:08:34 PM
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 19, 2023, 08:25:53 AM
I would have thought it's one of those sports you need to start young. Any local tennis clubs?

Local town doesn't have a club I don't think. But next town do Dungannon/Omagh I suppose I could get in contact.

Appears a protestant thing to do but maybe that says more about me than the clubs. 🙂

Find a summer camp, there are plenty in Belfast, my youngest did one on the circular rd off the Antrim rd facing the Landsown.. well run

They're shit at responding to any requests on Facebook.

Her friend is a member I suppose that helped!! It's not what ya know  ;)

But I used to collect her when she was at it and would head up early to watch them and very impressed with their coaching from what I could see, very engaging, worked hard on the basics and enough coaches to not leave people hanging about, they only played games near the end of the sessions, so it wasn't just here's a bag of balls knock yourselves out.

Wasn't cheap if I remember right :o