The initial week at the U.S. Open is complete and the men’s field has been scaled down to sixteen players.  Two names missing from the roll call are Andy Roddick and Andy Murray.  These two touted favorites were upset early on. Here’s a summary of the past seven days and an analysis of what could unfold the next few rounds.

While Rafael Nadal barely passed his pre-tournament exams in Toronto and Cincinnati, in his first three matches at the Open, the Spaniard gets an A plus.  Despite being tested, with a beefed up first serve to the tune of 130 miles per hour at times, Nadal has dispatched each adversary in three sets.  In the fourth round, Nadal will face compatriot Feliciano Lopez.  With Nadal’s 5-2 record against his fellow citizen, Lopez is likely the subsequent sacrificial lamb.

After surviving a five set tussle in the first round against Fabio Fognini ranked 86th, Fernando Verdasco is in the round of 16 and will take on David Ferrer, the tenth seed.  Although Verdasco has a 6-4 edge in their encounters, Ferrer prevailed at their last meeting on clay and at their only battle on hardcourt in 2004.  David Nalbandian, one of the few players who could have troubled Nadal, was easily given his marching orders by Verdasco in the third round.

Also in the top section of the draw, seventh seed Tomas Berdych was surprised in the first round by Michael Llodra.  However, the jaw dropper came today with  Murray, the 2008 finalist and fourth seed, dismissed by Stanislas Wawrinka in the third round. The Swiss advanced for the third occasion to the fourth round in New York.   Wawrinka will meet Sam Querrey for a spot in the quarterfinals.  Consequently, for Querrey, this is the ideal scenario to book his maiden quarterfinal berth at a major.

The Spaniards have ruled and Tommy Robredo made sure to partake in the round of 16 festivities. With John Isner beaten by Mikhail Youzhny in the third round, Robredo and the Russian will fight for a place in the quarterfinals.

Another American  propelled into the limelight this week was eighteen year old Ryan Harrison.  After coming through three rounds of qualifying, Harrison stunned Ivan Ljubicic, the fifteenth seed, in the first round.  Furthermore, Harrison was one point from a win in a fifth set tiebreaker in the second round.  Harrison became the first American teen to vanquish a top twenty player at a major since Roddick in 2001 also at this event.

With Murray done and dusted, Verdasco, Lopez, Ferrer, Wawrinka, Querrey, Robredo and Youzhny are the survivors in the top half of the draw.  Nadal has a record of 48 victories and 9 defeats against the guys left .  Thus, one can effectively write Nadal’s name on the final’s program.  As the axiom says, “one never knows for whom he works”.

Following a routine debut match, Roddick was toppled in the second round by Janko Tipsarevic.  As such, Roddick’s quest for a second major will be delayed another year.  With Roddick taking leave, a formidable hindrance to Novak Djokovic was removed in the bottom half of the draw.

After a near exit in the first round against Victor Troicki, Djokovic cleaned up his act to reach the fourth round against Mardy Fish.  The American had a strange five set, first round match whereby he lost one game in the three sets he carried.  In the third round, Fish escaped again, wrapping up the win in five sets against veteran Arnaud Clement who shocked Marcos Baghdatis in the first round.  Fish will be in search of his initial victory against Djokovic in five attempts.  With the wave Fish has been riding recently, it’s a feasible goal.

In the second round, sixth seed Nikolay Davydenko fell to Richard Gasquet. With his most successful showing at a major since 2008, Gasquet is now into the fourth round and will collide with fellow Frenchman Gael Monfils.  In contrast to Monfils whose play has had many highs as well as lows, Gasquet bounced his adversaries in three sets.  Hence, if Gasquet continues to be consistent, he has an excellent shot at making the quarterfinals.

In the same section, Marin Cilic, the eleventh seed, ran into Kei Nishikori in the second round.  Cilic was worn out by his opponent and the heat.  Yet, an injured Nishikori retired the subsequent round giving Albert Montanes safe passage.

Robin Soderling progressed to the fourth round after getting through the first round in five sets.  Since then, Soderling has been flawless and faces Montanes in the fourth round.  Thus, for Soderling, a quarterfinal meeting with Roger Federer appears almost certain.

Compared to Nadal, Federer has not been pushed and has readily reached the round of 16.  Federer will confront Jurgen Melzer whom he knocked out in their sole career meeting at Wimbledon two months ago.  For the five time champion, the real work will start with Soderling his likely quarterfinal counterpart.

With Roddick and Murray gone, it’s time to recalibrate.  In the top half of the draw, Nadal appears to be holding all the aces and seems a shoo-in for his first final in the Big Apple.  The singular brainteaser is who will be on the other side of the net on that day.  If Federer maintains the form he has demonstrated of late, in spite of the difficulties which Soderling or Djokovic could present in the quarterfinals or semifinals respectively, he should solve them.  In that case, there will be a Nadal-Federer final with the latter having a high chance of bagging his seventeenth major.  To the contrary, Soderling, Djokovic or Fish will be the one standing between Nadal and the career grand slam.  Under those circumstances, the Spaniard would be sitting pretty and hoisting his first U.S. Open trophy.

The U.S. Open draw has been unveiled with the usual suspects at the top pack.  Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer are the highest seeds followed respectively by Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray.  For some, the path has multiple green lights, but for others it is lined with yellow flags.  Here’s a breakdown of the draw.

After his victories at the French Open and Wimbledon, Nadal is once more in pursuit of the U.S. Open trophy, the sole major he lacks.  In 2008, the Spaniard was halted in the semifinals by Murray and last year in the same round by Juan Martin Del Potro, the champion.  Although Nadal has been the most prolific performer on grass and clay this season, hardcourt has been a different story.  Nadal has a lone final appearance in January in Doha and went down to Nikolay Davydenko.  With neither injury nor fatigue an issue this time, Nadal is capable of going the distance.  However, there may be a significant boulder in his way in the quarterfinals.

Finally in shape after hip surgery, David Nalbandian has made himself part of the conversation and could clash with Nadal in the quarterfinals.  Although Nadal recorded the win at their last meeting at the Sony Ericsson Open in March, Nalbandian’s form has improved markedly since then.  Moreover, Nalbandian took the title as a wildcard at the Legg Mason Tennis Classic earlier this month.  As a result, the Argentine will not be an easy customer for the Spaniard.

While Fernando Verdasco, the eight seed, is technically another likely quarterfinal counterpart for Nadal, Verdasco is at best a minute obstacle.  With a 10-0 record against his countryman, in a five set match, Nadal is a sure bet.

De novo, Nadal has been placed on a collision course with Murray to reach his first U.S. Open final.  Twice on hardcourt this year, Murray has comprehensively beaten Nadal including the Rogers Cup two weeks ago.  After dreadful results most of the season, Murray is at last in form and defended his title in Toronto.  If they clash in the semifinals, Nadal will have a tough time getting a pass.

Beforehand, Murray may need to handle his own spot of bother in the shape of Sam Querrey in the round of 16.  In the final of the Farmers Classic in July, Querrey prevailed over Murray.  In addition, Tomas Berdych, the French Open semifinalist and Wimbledon finalist, is a probable quarterfinal rival for Murray.  Therefore, a Murray-Nadal semifinal is not set in stone.

The bottom half of the draw is also intriguing with Robin Soderling, Andy Roddick, Djokovic and Federer, the projected quarterfinalists.  Yet, Mardy Fish and Marcos Baghdatis may spell trouble for the top seeds in that section considering their performance this summer.

The last time Federer encountered Lleyton Hewitt, it was the Halle final.  That day, Hewitt walked away with the trophy.  In the third round, Federer may get the opportunity to pay Hewitt back.  A similar scenario could unfold with Soderling who will likely be Federer’s quarterfinal match-up.  Soderling derailed Federer in the quarterfinals at Roland Garros. Neither Soderling nor Hewitt has posted good results during the summer hardcourt season.  Conversely, Federer defended his title in Cincinnati and is playing his best tennis since his triumph at the Australian Open.  Hence, Federer’s chances of advancing to the semifinals are strong.

Still with the lingering effect of mononucleosis, Roddick reached the semifinals in Cincinnati last week. If illness is a non-factor, Roddick should have no difficulty getting by Davydenko in the round of 16.  Complications may come in the quarterfinals if Roddick faces Baghdatis or Fish.  The latter ousted Roddick in the semifinals in Cincinnati and Atlanta this summer after being winless nine consecutive times.

Out of deference as the third seed, Djokovic can be said to be a contender.  However, the Serb’s performance these past few tournaments leads one to question his physical and mental toughness in a torrid New York heat.  So, depending on the weather, Baghdatis or Fish could sneak through, thwarting a possible Roddick-Djokovic semifinal.  Nevertheless, if it comes down to a Roddick-Djokovic semifinal, Roddick should be in the driver’s seat.

Federer, Murray, Roddick and Nadal, in that order, are the heavyweights while Nalbandian, Soderling, Djokovic and Berdych are the middleweights with an outside chance for the title.  With major number seventeen, Federer would be three shy of his set objective of twenty.  After being denied twice, Murray is hopeful that on this occasion he will join the elite club of major champions.  For Roddick, a second trophy would silence the critics who are determined to label him as a “one slam wonder”.  By completing the career grand slam, Nadal would demonstrate that he is indeed a complete player and elevate himself to legendary status.

In the last two years, Roger Federer’s tennis obituary has been written more than once.  In fact, the notion of the great one’s eminent demise has crossed this writer’s mind on a few occasions only to be refuted.  Since his victory in Melbourne, Federer has hit a speed bump from which he has yet to recover.  Thus, rumors again are rampid as to the Swiss genius being put out to pasture.  Unequivocally, the fear factor which Federer previously instilled in his opponents pre-match has waned.  Yet, to deduce that his career is at its conclusion is a tad premature.

Tennis followers are accustomed to Federer being a sure thing especially at the majors.  With a total of 32 titles from 2004 thru 2007 and double digit trophies three of those years, Federer has been brilliance personified.  In 2004, the stellar Swiss was perfect in finals, 11-0.  Moreover, three of the fore mentioned years, Federer prevailed at three of the four majors.  During that four year span, the ‘Federer Express’ was detained only twenty three times and relinquished at the most matches eight matches in a single season.

Even at his peak, Pete Sampras garnered double figure titles, 10, only one time in 1994 and obtained maximally two majors in a calendar year.  Arguably, 2008 was the best year to date for Federer’s archrival, Rafael Nadal.  Along with Olympics gold, the Spaniard claimed two majors in that cycle.  Therefore, this underscores further the reason that fans expect excellence from Federer.

Before 2008, with the exception of Nadal, Federer vanquished a lot of his competitors in the locker room.  It was the 2008 Australian Open semifinals which marked Federer’s transition to the land of mortals.  With Novak Djokovic halting Federer at that stage, it signaled to other adversaries that they had a prayer.  Although Federer’s languid movement, which could be ascribed to mononucleosis, contributed largely to his defeat.  The illness exposed a layer of vulnerability from which Federer had difficulty recovering the remainder of the year.  In some respects, this year seems a flashback to 2008 with the express difference that Federer’s counterparts are upstaging him even earlier at the majors; something unseen previously.

Why the transformation?  Confidence.  While Robin Soderling’s victory over Federer at an exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi this past February may have been categorized by some as insignificant.  In hindsight, it proved not to be trivial. That win cultivated in Soderling belief for their next meeting.  A few weeks ago at the French Open, Soderling had his initial triumph over Federer after 13 attempts.  Moreover, the encounter was historic as Soderling terminated Federer’s extraordinary streak of major semifinals at 23.

Another example is Tomas Berdych.  After eight successive takedowns by Federer, the mentally fragile Berdych bested his nemesis in Miami this year.  Then, in the Wimbledon quarterfinals, Berdych went on to replicate that feat.  Later, at the post match press conference, Federer revealed that a stiff back and a leg injury which first surfaced in Halle were in part to blame for his failure.

Indeed, there were echoes of Australia 2008 at Wimbledon this year.  Federer just seemed a step slower than his opponent.  Seldom would one associate the word mediocre with a Federer stroke, but it crept up to mind in watching his backhand.  Moreover, the sting had slipped off  the forehand side.  Consequently, the rest of Federer’s game could not coalesce.  In spite of the injuries, considering the result in Paris, the question lingers whether with a fully fit Federer, the outcome would have altered. Following the French Open, Federer’s ranking dropped to number two.  After Wimbledon, it dipped to number three, his lowest since November of 2003.

Through most of his career, Federer has been injury free which was partially the secret to his dominance.  The last two years, different injuries and illnesses have cropped up to decelerate him.  Besides the back and leg, there was a respiratory ailment this February. Outside priorities such as marriage and children are now part of the equation.  Additionally, age is suddenly a consideration as Federer turns 29 this month.  As such, his body does not have the ability to rebound in the same manner.  Moreover, unlike the women’s tour where Serena Williams, who will be Federer’s age in September, has been dominant precisely at the majors, the ATP’s talent pool seems deeper which adds another hurdle.

After a disappointing 2008 by Federer standard, the Swiss genius had a renaissance last year.  Federer finally chased down the elusive French Open trophy and culminated 2009 by surpassing Sampras to become the winningest male in the majors in the modern era.  Then, Federer started this season by claiming his sixteenth major in Australia.  Knowing Federer’s past modus operandi, after Melbourne, visions of 2007, the last time he won three majors, were revived.  Of course, recent developments render that eventually unachievable.

At this moment, Federer’s record stands at 31 victories and 9 defeats for the year.  Subsequent to an almost two month hiatus, the Swiss’ North American hardcourt swing resumes at the Rogers Cup this month.  With a bunch of points at stake, Federer’s career is at a crossroad.  Without question, Federer still has the hunger to compete and be the best.  In his interview, following the Berdych debacle, he was asked “do you feel you can get back to a position of domination in tennis?”  Federer responded: “I do think that. That’s why I’m here”.  Great champions are wizards at making themselves relevant and Federer has a proven track record.  Therefore, the upcoming U.S. Open will offer Federer the ideal stage to show he has plenty of tennis left in him.

The time has come to cease wishing for the ‘good old days’ and bid farewell to the age of Federer capturing three or even two majors in one term.  Perhaps, Federer fans should change their mindset and acclimate themselves to the fact that one major a year may the Swiss’ best accomplishment.  Certainly, that’s not a far reaching objective for the next two or three years.  For Federer, the hardest part may be resigning himself to the possibility of never again attaining the number one ranking.

Like many athletes who have enjoyed phenomenal success, Federer is not immune to downturns.  In essence, this seems to be the second act of Federer’s career.  When the final act arrives, Federer will the first to recognize it.  Until then, there are many glorious chapters yet to be written.

Mardy Fish and Mark Knowles fought back in the final of the Legg Mason Tennis Classic overcoming Tomas Berdych and Radek Stepanek 4-6,7-6,10-7 to bag their second title as a team.

Berdych and Stepanek sprinted to a 3-0 advantage by breaking Knowles and Fish twice in the first set.  Then, with a love hold, Stepanek further extended their lead to 4-0.  Knowles and Fish managed to break once. Nevertheless, with the insurance break, the Czechs took the set.

Knowles and Fish have been a tandem since February 2008 while their Czech counterparts usually play doubles only in the Davis Cup.  Moreover, for Berdych and Stepanek, this was their first ATP doubles final as a team.  Thus, Knowles and Fish called upon their experience to weather the storm especially after Knowles double faulted in the second set to give their opponents a 3-2 edge which they consolidated for 4-2.  Later though, with Berdych serving at 40-30, Fish struck a forehand down the line winner to force a deciding point.  With Berdych double faulting, the set was squared at 4 all.  Ultimately, a tiebreaker was played.

Off a sensational forehand return by Fish, Stepanek dumped the forehand volley in the net.  Down the road, Fish made another volley winner to give his team a double mini-break for 5-2.  Next, on a miscue from the Czechs, Knowles and Fish had three set points.  Stepanek and Berdych battled back for 6 all.  Subsequently, on an error, Stepanek and Berdych were at 7-6 and championship point.  Again, Fish and Knowles produced some remarkable shots to stay afloat and steal the tiebreaker.

In the super-tiebreaker, with Berdych’s backhand sailing long, Knowles and Fish had a mini-break for 1-0.  On a Fish forehand error, Berdych and Stepanek got back on serve for 3-4.  But, with a net court favoring Fish and Knowles, that pair regained a mini-break for 5-3.  Again, the Czechs climbed back to make it 7 all. Soon, on a superb return by Fish, Stepanek flubbed the volley giving Fish and Knowles championship at 9-7.  The pair won the next point to capture the trophy.

After the match, MiamiTennisNews and one other media outlet sat down to talk to Fish and Knowles.  For 38 year old Knowles, this was his 53rd doubles title.  Therefore, MiamiTennisNews wanted to know:
Q. At your age, what keeps you still motivated and what has been the key to your success?
Knowles:  I still enjoy playing and competing . . . It’s a challenge competing against the current players.  I’ve seen the game evolve a little bit from when I first started.  It still gives me a high to compete at this level and win.

Q. Is it more difficult though with having a family?
Knowles: I play less now because of a wife and two kids.  This year was a little difficult.  I was injured at the start of the season and I was out for three months.  Mardy and I have agreed to play doubles this year which is an exciting prospect.  Things have taken a while to develop because of my injury but things are going well now.

Next week in Toronto, with Fish concentrating on singles, Knowles will partner with Stepanek. Thus, MiamiTennisNews asked:
Q. It must be strange having to play with Stepanek since you’ve beaten him today.  How does one deal with that? Also, you’ve had a few partners, how do you select the person you want to play with?
Knowles:  I look for a guy who will complement me well.  Someone I get along with on and off the court.  Radek is a phenomenal doubles and singles player.  A big part of doubles is finding the right partner.  It’s kind of awkward that we competed against each other today and play together tomorrow.  But, we are all professions and get along well.  We understand the nature of the business so it will be exciting next week as well.

With Andy Roddick falling in the third round at this event, for the first time since 1973, on Monday’s ranking there will be no American male in the top ten in singles.  Thus, MiamiTennisNews questioned Fish about his thoughts on the matter after winning his 8th career title in doubles:
Q.  What’s your feeling on that development?
Fish:  It’s only going to last for one week since [Jo-Wilfried] Tsonga is injured and not playing in Toronto.  So, Andy will go back to [number] 10.  [Therefore], I think it’s sort of ridiculous.  But with that being said, it’s such a worldly sport now, so deep.  There are guys coming from all corners while [U.S.] athletes are going to play more popular sports, football, basketball.  [On the other hand, with the other countries], tennis is just as big as soccer, so it’s tough.

Q. So do you feel that the state of American tennis is still healthy?  Any good prospect? Ryan Harrison has been a name which has come to the surface lately?
Fish: [Harrison] is extremely young and talented.  But, he has a long way to go. He has the [hunger] which is certainly a good thing. Still, Sam Querrey is playing great.  Surely, Roddick would have something to say if you said he is done, he has a few years left for sure.  We are all trying as hard as we can.  Besides Spain, there’s no other country which has too many guys at the top. And for Spain, there’s only one in the top ten.  There aren’t many spots in the top ten, so it’s hard to get there.

Knowles and Fish will reunite in Cincinnati next and plan to play at the U.S. Open.  The two are currently ranked 30th and will move up after this win.

In the doubles semifinals in Washington, Tomas Berdych and Radek Stepanek regrouped after dropping a contested first set to edge out the fourth seed Julian Knowle and Andy Ram 5-7,6-2,10-4.

After ousting the top seed Daniel Nestor and Nenad Zimonjic,  Berdych and Stepanek got a walkover into the semifinals. Subsequent to Ram and Knowle carrying the first set, the team’s failure in serving effectively, allowed the Czechs to dominate the rest of the match. In the super tiebreaker, Berdych and Stepanek took control to acquire their first berth in a doubles final on the ATP tour as a team.

Following their triumph, MiamiTennisNews was one of only three sources to sit down with the duos and discuss a variety of topics.  After his singles defeat, Berdych expressed his dissatisfaction with the manner in which he was treated as the top seed.

Post sleep and perhaps having reflected, MiamiTennisNews wanted to know his views since yesterday.  Berdych was ambivalent about participating next year.
Q.  The two of you had such tremendous crowd support for your match today.  How do you feel after what transpired yesterday?  Will today weigh more in terms of making a decision for 2011?
Berdych: I was quite sad yesterday.  [Today], I just wanted to go back on the court, try to win, play better tennis and enjoy it.  It’s not a question of the next day.  There’s still a year to go. . . I will think about it and see what to do next year . . .so it’s difficult to say right now.

Moreover, Berdych states that thus far his issues had not been taken under advisement nor had the appropriate authorities spoken to him on the subject.

Because of injuries and personal reasons, Stepanek has been absent from the court. In singles, he lost his first match out to Marco Chiudinelli.  MiamiTennisNews asked:
Q.  What are your thoughts on being in the final?
Stepanek:  It’s a great result for us as a team . . . We’ve always played together in Davis Cup, played great matches.  But, we’ve never been able to do so well at [the ATP level], so we are very please.  Especially for me, after being out for five months with [mononucleosis and knee injury] my first tournament, I’m in the final; it’s a great feeling even though it’s doubles.  I’m getting on the court, getting some matches, gaining confidence . . .so I’m looking forward to tomorrow’s final.

Q. Are the two of you planning to play more doubles on the ATP tour as oppose to Davis Cup?
Stepanek:  No.  We always try to play a little before Davis Cup just to keep in touch.  The priority for both of us is still singles.  Tomas is now in the top ten and has a great chance to move up even more.  When we have a chance we will play, but not on a weekly basis.

Q.  Any thoughts on facing Serbia in the Davis Cup semifinals?
Stepanek:  Still a long way off.  It’s just nice to know that we are on the doubles court.  Everything is falling into place, going the right way.  We have the spirit and that’s the most important thing heading into Davis Cup after the U.S. Open.

In tomorrow’s final, Berdych and Stepanek will battle Mardy Fish and Mark Knowles.  The pair prevailed over Rohan Bopanna and Aisam-UI-Haq Qureshi 7-5,7-5.  In the quarterfinals, Bopanna and Qureshi surprised Bob and Mike Bryan, the world number two.

In the evening session, David Nalbandian bested Gilles Simon, the 13th seed, 3-6,6-2, 6-3.  At number four, Marin Cilic is the highest surviving seed. Cilic toppled Janko Tipsarevic 7-6,6-4.

Having split their prior two encounters in 2006, for both Malisse and Berdych it was case of getting reacquainted.  Malisse drew first blood by capitalizing on his second break point chance in the third game.  The Belgian went on to readily consolidate for 3-1.  Down love-30 in the fifth game,  Berdych worked his way back to game point.  However, with Berdych failing to convert on eight game points, Malisse seized a second break and 5-2 lead.  Although Berdych narrowed the arrears to a single break, with the insurance edge Malisse managed to wrap up the set.

Unable to break in the second game, Berdych was gifted a double fault on double break point by Malisse for 5-4.  The Czech secured the following game to force a third set.  After opening the fourth game with a double fault, Berdych compounded it with a series of unforced miscues.  As a result, Malisse inched ahead 4-3.  With Berdych misfiring on three consecutive backhands, Malisse increased his lead to 5-3.  For good measure, Malisse broke Berdych one last time to earn his first semifinal berth in Washington.

After the match, Berdych expressed his discontentment with playing his third round on a non-show court and being scheduled first today after getting to his hotel late this morning.  At the preceding conference, Berdych alluded to jet lag being an issue, the early match he felt added to his wretched play in the first set.  Nevertheless, Berdych acknowledged that Malisse merited the win because he performed well.

For his part, Malisse commented that the key to his victory was his ability to return.  Malisse remarked that the third set was near perfect tennis from his end.

In the second singles, Verdasco had three break opportunities in the opening game.  Baghdatis survived the challenge and went on to break for 2-1.  Yet, Verdasco quickly got back on serve by manufacturing a break of his own.  Ultimately, the set was decided by a tiebreaker.  Courtesy of three double faults by Verdasco, Baghdatis built a 5-2 advantage.  As another Verdasco forehand traveled out of play, Baghdatis bagged the first set.

After Verdasco held to carry the initial game of the second set, Baghdatis netted a backhand giving the Spaniard triple break point.  However, Baghdatis once again disappointed his rival.  The next game, a disenchanted Verdasco dropped his serve.  Although Verdasco immediately equalized the set at 2 all, the errors became uncontrollable leading to further breaks.  When Verdasco’s forehand pass sailed long, Baghdatis had double break point.  With Verdasco flubbing a backhand down the line, Baghdatis secured a 5-3 lead which was the difference in the match.

MiamiTennisNews asked:
Q.  This was your first meeting with Baghdatis, was his game different than expected?
Verdasco:  No . . . I did not play [well].  It was very windy . . .so it was tough to play for both of us . . . [Too] many double faults [because of ] the changing direction of the wind . . . The bounce of the court was sometimes [irregular] . . . The conditions were not easy.

MiamiTennisNews was curious about Verdasco’s racket conundrum.
Q.  Earlier in the year you experimented with a different brand and you’ve since switched back.  What’s the reason?
Verdasco:  Before [the season started] I tried Yonex and I was suppose to play in Australia with it.  But, [the manufacturer] did not [fabricate] the racket the way I wanted.  So, I was told to play with my old racket in Australia . . . In San Jose and Memphis, I played with the Yonex racket.  On clay in Acapulco, I [noticed] it was not the racket I want . . . After Acapulco, the [team] spoke to Dunlop to see if it can make the [equipment that suits] my game. Dunlop worked on it for a few months, that’s why I played the clay and grass seasons with a black racket.  It’s still an [evolving process], trying to find the perfect racket.  It’s never easy like changing clothes or sunglasses because it’s such an [integral] part of the game.

Q.  Any plans to defend your title at the Pilot Pen?
Verdasco: I will just be playing the two Masters and the [major].  Last year I won New Haven, it was great and I enjoyed it . . . The people really treated me well . .  . But, last year, when I got to the U.S. Open, I had a micro-tear in my abs and lost in the first round  because of too many matches in a row.  I don’t want that to happen this year because I want to do well in [New York].

Of Baghdatis MiamiTennisNews inquired:
Q.  You’ve recently changed coaches (back to Guillaume Peyre), how is that working out? What part of your game is he helping you improve?
Baghdatis:  Perfect.  I worked with my coach when I was 16, 17, 20 . . .I know him, he knows me.  So it was not really a big change. . . We just started two weeks ago. . For sure, he is going to help me a lot.  Not so much inside the court, but outside the court.  To stay focus, the mental side which is very important.  He is a smart guy and I think we will find solutions together.

Q. You are playing Malisse next, have you met before?
Baghdatis:  I played him twice last year in two finals of challenger and beat him twice.  I saw a bit of today’s match against Berdych, he is not missing much.  He is really aggressive, he is taking his time and [choosing] the right shot at the right time.  I will sit with my coach tomorrow morning and talk about [strategy].

The evening’s first feature was Simon and Nalbandian clashing in their maiden ATP match. Simon sprinted to a 3-0 lead to open the first set.  But, Nalbandian broke and equalized for 3 all.  Still, Simon obtained another break to reclaim the lead at 5-4 and served out the set.

In the second set, Simon again claimed Nalbandian’s initial service game.  However, as a result of a multitude of errors by Simon, Nalbandian had triple break point.  The Argentine converted with a forehand crosscourt winner.  Following a love hold, Nalbandian saw Simon’s forehand clip the net and land long which gave him double break point.  As the mistakes from Simon mounted, Nalbandian secured the break for 3-1.  Holding on to his serve more readily, Nalbandian extended his lead to 5-2 and broke Simon again to close out the set.

In the third, it was Nalbandian who obtained the early break and Simon charging. Subsequent to getting the break for 4-2, Nalbandian double faulted to hand Simon a break point.  With Nalbadian’s forehand miscue, the players were back on serve.  Yet, Simon followed a double fault with a forehand error.  When Nalbandian nailed a forehand up the winner, Simon stared at triple break point.   With Simon’s forehand finding the bottom of the net, Nalbandian captured the break and next bedded the match with a love hold for his initial semifinal of the season.

Both Nalbandian and Simon are baseline players, so MiamiTennisNews inquired:
Q.  Do you think the key to the match was the fact that you were more aggressive  and coming forward?
Nalbandian:  Yes.  He is a good player from the baseline, but he did not hit as hard as me. I had to play much better in the second and third sets to try to make it. I tried to believed in my game, push him hard, play more offensive and it worked.

With neither Cilic nor Tipsarevic ceding serve in the first set, the two battled it out in the tiebreaker.  With an overhead winner, Cilic got a mini-break for 2-0.  As a result of backhand error, Cilic relinquished his edge.  Later with a forehand from Tipsarevic sailing long, Cilic obtained another mini-break for 4-3 and widened his advantage to 6-3. As Tipsarevic lost his balance, his backhand missed its mark allowing Cilic to lock up the first set.

Early on, the second set pursued a course similar to the first until seventh game.  With Tipsarevic up 40-0, Cilic managed to get to deuce.  Then by provoking errors from his adversary, Cilic earned the break for 4-3.  After having no problem consolidating, Cilic manufactured triple break/match point.  But, Tipsarevic fought back to extend the match.  Undeterred, Cilic clasped the set with a love game to acquire his first semifinal berth in Washington.  Moreover, Cilic improved his record to 5-0 against Tipsarevic.

The hemorrhage continued for the Americans as Mike and Bob Bryan, the world number two, were ousted in the quarterfinals 7-6,7-5 by Rohan Bopanna and Aisim-UI-Haq Qureshi ranked 15th in the world. Mardy Fish is still alive in doubles.  The American and partner Mark Knowles prevailed in straight sets to advance to the semifinals.

Isner, the fifth seed, squared off against Xavier Malisse.  In March at their initial meeting in Houston, Malisse prevailed in three tiebreaker sets. In the beginning stages of the first set, Malisse had a few break points.  However, Isner promptly brushed those aside.  Later at 4 all, Malisse obtained the break which permitted him to take the set.  But, in the second set, Malisse double faulted on break point to give Isner a 2-1 edge. As usual, this was the minute window the American required to push the match to a third set.  In the third game, Isner had two break point chances, yet converted none.  For his part, with Isner serving at 4 all, Malisse failed to capitalized on love 40.  Thus, the tiebreaker was called upon.  At 5 all, Isner miscalculated an overhead which resulted in the ball landing on his side of the court.  With a mini-break/match point in hand, Malisse connected on a good serve.  With Isner botching the return, Malisse punched his ticket into the subsequent round with  a 6-4,3-6,7-6 win.

Despite recently turning 30, Malisse is enjoying great success the last few months. MiamiTennisNews asked:

Q. Although you are getting on in years, you are playing pretty good tennis.  What keeps you motivated?
Malisse: I had two years of injuries, when you are sidelined and everyone else is playing it hurts. Sometimes you say that you want  a couple of weeks off, when it’s [not on your own terms], it really gets to you . . . Since I had two easy years, I feel I am healthy now . . . The road back has been tough playing challenger last year after being in nice tournaments in nice places. . . But it feels so much more satisfying now . . . Before, I was just playing, not really enjoying it.

At Wimbledon, Malisse teamed up with Kim Clijsters and made it to the quarterfinals in mixed doubles.  MiamiTennisNews inquired:

Q. Do the two of you  plan to do the same at the U.S. Open?
Malisse: I don’t think so.  We have not talked about it. It’s harder considering it’s five sets . . . We had a good time and laughed a lot in [London], that’s the most important thing.

The first set went along swimmingly for Malisse’s quarterfinal opponent, Berdych against Andrey Golubev.  After securing the break in the third game, Berdych cruised on serve.  Nevertheless, serving to send the second set into a tiebreaker, Berdych dropped serve at love.  In the decisive set, Berdych broke for 3-2.  Though, serving for the match and ahead 30-0, Berdych surrendered four straight points to enable Golubev back in.  Still, Berdych managed to break once more and hold for a 6-3,5-7,7-5 victory.

First round at Wimbledon, Berdych faced Golubev and send him packing in straight sets. Hence, MiamiTennisNews wanted to know:

Q.  Why was it so difficult to close Golubev out this time around?
Berdych: He’s really improved [in the last couple of weeks].  He won his first [title] in Hamburg which is a big tournament . . . Even before, he’s had a couple of good results . . . Hardcourt is going to be the best surface for him. . . The conditions, the fast courts suit his game . . .

The Sony Ericsson Open was a pivotal point in Berdych’s career.  Since, he’s had extraordinary results at the French Open and Wimbledon.  MiamiTennisNews questioned whether Berdych felt the same way.

Q.  In making the final in South Florida, did that give you the mental boost to propel you to additional success?
Berdych:  Yes. . .  But not only the tournament in Miami. It started the Davis Cup week right before Indian Wells. . . I won a couple of matches . . . Then at Indian Wells, I made the quarters which showed me even if I am . . .  not playing  well, I can [have] good results which gave me a lot of confidence. . . Coming to Miami which is really my favorite tournament . . . The key match against Roger [Federer] turning it around match point down . . . [getting] to the final . . .  I am happy I can keep the form, keep the consistency and bring more and more good results.

Sixty nine minutes was the length of Gilles Simon’s match against 2009 finalist Roddick. For the Frenchman, it was surprisingly easy in light of his knee problem.  Moreover, although the two had not played since 2008, Simon had never carried a set.  Subsequent to getting the break for 2-1, Simon stole another game from Roddick to seal the first set.  As in the prior set, Simon captured the break for 2-1. Roddick manufactured one break point in the set, his second of the night which Simon salvaged.  Nonetheless, Simon sustained the lead to eventually triumph 6-3,6-3.

With an ice pack strapped to his right knee, Simon stated that the difference tonight is that unlike before, he “managed to return serves which was not the case the last times” they met.  Moreover, as a defensive player and with Roddick camping at the baseline, Simon cited “when we play a lot of points from the baseline, I feel more confident”.

While Roddick credited his opponent as usual and said “I have no defense, it was a pretty bad effort”.  Roddick’s results have been poor lately and he admits that he has “struggling”  with his energy level  which is “concerning“.  As such, Roodick acknowledged that a visit to the doctor is warranted since “I’ve been feeling like crap”.  With that disclosure, it will not be shocking if Roddick sits out the Masters in Toronto.

Simon clashes with David Nalbandian in the quarterfinals.  At their maiden meeting, Nalbandian squashed Marco Chiudinelli 6-1,6-0.  Gradually, the Argentine has been making a comeback following hip surgery last year.  Currently ranked 117, this is the best Nalbandian has performed on hardcourt reaching his initial quarterfinal of the year on that surface.

The rain slowed down Verdasco enough to give qualifier Ryan Sweeting a glimmer of hope.  After wrestling the first game from Verdasco, Sweeting bounced back from love 40 to consolidate.  Down the road, Verdasco broke to level the first set at 3 all.  Benefiting from Sweeting’s miscues, Verdasco took a second game from the American to pocket the first set.  Break opportunities against Verdasco were plentiful early on in the second set.  Finally at 3 all, Sweeting capitalized to move ahead 4-3.  Yet, serving for the set, Sweeting produced a bevy of forehand errors which let Verdasco equalize for 5 a piece.  Later, Verdasco arrived at double break/match point thanks to another unforced error by Sweeting.  As Sweeting’s backhand sailed long, Verdasco claimed a quarterfinal berth with a 6-4,7-5 victory.

At the press conference, MiamiTennisNews questioned Verdasco:
Q.  You seem to get off to a sluggish start. Was the rain delay a factor at the beginning for you ?
Verdasco:  I don’t know maybe.  Nobody knows that . . . Waiting for a long time is not easy  [with an uncertain start time]. . . I am happy that I finally won the match that’s the most important thing . . .And I am feeling better day by day, match by match.

Q.  You go to Las Vegas frequently to train with the Addidas program, how has that helped to elevate your game?
Verdasco:  When I have tournaments in Europe, it’s more difficult . . .  When the tournaments are in the States, I go because I think it really helps me to have people like Gil Reyes, Darren Cahill, Andre Agassi and Steffi Graff . . . I was the first of the Addidas players to go there . . . Since Gil speaks Spanish, we hit it off right away. . . I have an incredible relationship with [everyone].  I did a big change before the Australian Open 2009.  They are still helping me and making me a better player.  That’s why I go every time I can.

Marcos Baghdatis, Verdasco’s subsequent challenge, made his match against Illya Marchenko more intricate by wasting  a 4-0 lead in the second set tiebreaker.  Still, Baghdatis recuperated to vanquish his rival 6-3,6-7,6-3.

The last beacon for the Americans, Fish was extinguished by Marin Cilic. Cilic improved his record to 3-0 versus Fish.  After the former seized the first set, Fish gained the break at 5-4 in the second set to force a third.  But, the last set, Fish withered and Cilic pocketed the match 6-4,4-6,6-2.  Therefore, for the first time since the creation of the tournament, there will be no American in the quarterfinals and for only the third occasion has it happened with the semifinals.

At their one prior tussle in the first round at Roland Garros this year, Janko Tipsarevic was booted by Alejandro Falla.  Tipsarevic got off to a fast start in the first set, taking it 6-3. In the second set though, Tipsarevic encountered resistance from the Columbian.  In the end, the Serbian ousted Falla 6-4, 6-3 to reserve the quarterfinals’ terminal slot.



The Olympus U.S. Open series is on its D.C. stop this week.  Although Juan Martin Del Potro, the reigning U.S. Open and two time defending Legg Mason Classic champion, is sidelined by injury this year, numerous big names have made the trip to the nation’s capital to contest this coveted trophy.

On the opposite side of the draw is perennial favorite Andy Roddick, the second seed.  Roddick, a three time champion and finalist in 2009, is hoping to rebound from a curtailed Wimbledon campaign.  Being on grounds which brought him tremendous success previously could be the remedy for the American’s blues.

Fernando Verdasco, the world number 10 and 2009 Australian Open semifinalist, is the third seed.  It’s Verdasco’s  maiden showing at the tournament.  With three titles already this year, Verdasco will be a certain threat.  Returning for the second straight year is Marin Cilic who is positioned as the fourth seed and a potential semifinal rival for Roddick.

Another favorite for the trophy is Sam Querrey who is the 6th seed.  With three titles this season, Querrey could face Roddick in the semifinals.  Two other Americans,  Mardy Fish, the champion in Atlanta and John Isner, the runner-up in Georgia as well as the Legg Mason in 2007, are also strong contenders.  Lleyton Hewitt, the 2004 victor, the always entertaining Marcos Baghdatis, Stanislas Wawrinka, Delray titlist Ernests Gulbis, veteran Radek Stepanek and upstart Thiemo De Bakker likewise are part of the main draw.

Other notables include James Blake, the 2002 winner, Richard Gasquet and David Nalbandian who were given wildcard entries.  Moreover, the number one ranked pair of Nenad Zimonjic and Daniel Nestor as well as the  world number two, Mike and Bob Bryan, who have prevailed three times at this tournament highlight the doubles field.

Don’t miss all the action from this ATP 500 event from July 31 thru August 8.  For the complete draws and information on the tournament click on www.leggmasontennisclassic.com.  Follow us daily on twitter under the username MiamiTennisNews.

Berdych’s track to the finals was dramatic.  In the quarterfinals, the Czech defeated six time champion Roger Federer.  Moreover, Berdych halted Federer’s seven straight Wimbledon final streak.  Subsequently, in the semifinals, Berdych ousted Novak Djokovic, the world number 3, and became the first player from his nation since Lendl in 1987 to reach the finals at the All England Club.

With injury barring him from the defense of his title last year, Nadal had his knees come into the picture the earlier rounds.  But, in the quarterfinals and semifinals against Robin Soderling and Andy Murray respectively, Nadal had no issues.  Thus, the Spaniard appeared fit to battle.  Although Berdych and Nadal are the same age, their careers have had divergent paths.  Nadal holds 40 titles and has a 8-2 mark in finals of majors.  On the other hand,  Berdych’s overall record in finals is 5-5.

Berdych coolly carried the opening game at love while Nadal duplicated with four easy points.  Later in the first set, with a forehand crosscourt winner, Berdych held at 15 to stay in front 3-2.  However, after mildly pushing Nadal on serve, Berdych committed two quick unforced errors.  Then, with a forehand up the winner, Nadal arrived at triple break point.  With Berdych unable to locate a first serve the entire game, Nadal punished another second serve with a backhand crosscourt shot leading to another miscue by Berdych and the break.  Previously, Berdych had surrendered only two points on his serve.  Promptly with a forehand crosscourt winner, Nadal consolidated at love for 5-3.  After Berdych misfired on another forehand resulting in double break point, Nadal teed off on an abysmal second serve to get the error and claim the first set.

Still, in the second set, Berdych had his chances.  With two double faults and Nadal’s forehand floundering, Berdych had three opportunities to break in the first game.  With Berdych failing to capitalize on second serves, Nadal maintained serve.  Despite being denied, Berdych held with a love game.  Although Nadal committed a few uncharacteristic mistakes, he never allowed Berdych back in.  With Nadal ahead 4-3, at 40-30, Berdych connected on a backhand volley winner to level the set.  After readily keeping pace with comfortable games, Berdych produced a rash of errors as he served to send the set to a tiebreaker.  As a result, Nadal had triple break point.  In a mirror image of the first set, with a forehand error by Berdych, Nadal broke to take a two set advantage.

At one all in the third set, Berdych got a break point when Nadal’s backhand pass found the net.  Again, errors got the better of Berdych and Nadal guarded serve for 2-1.  Both men continued to cruise on serve with Berdych giving up just three points the next three game.  Nadal not too shabby himself, held at love for 5-4. Despite trying his best, Berdych faltered precisely at the wrong moments.  After Berdych shoveled out of 0-30 to obtain game point, by taking control of the rally on a second serve, Nadal crushed a forehand up the line winner for deuce.  When Berdych’s forehand missed its intended mark, Nadal had championship point.  By connecting with a forehand crosscourt pass, Nadal closed out the set and wrapped up the championship.

Subsequent to collecting the runner-up trophy, Berdych was asked his thoughts on his remarkable run.  Berdych cited that it was “a great two weeks for me . . . . [ but Nadal] was strong today and deserves to win”.   Berdych stated “the results the last two months are pretty good” and this is due to “my team in the box” to which he extended his gratitude.  Although Berdych is thankful for experiencing his first final at a major, he wants a different outcome next time, “it’s hard work, but [I will] do it again . . . [I] will be stronger for next time”.  Berdych will go from 13 to the number 8 slot in the rankings with this performance.

Nadal congratulated his counterpart on his incredible fortnight and said “sorry for today, wish you best of luck for the rest of the season”.  Considering what occurred last year, Nadal iterated that this is “more than a dream” to hold up the trophy and acknowledged that he owed his triumph to the “great team behind me” .  Furthermore, Nadal wanted to thank the crowd for “always mak[ing] me feel at home”.  He especially appreciated “the respect” it showed when he battled Murray in the semifinals.

This Wimbledon is significant in various ways. Firstly, once again, Murray and the British public will need to wait at least another year for a homegrown champion.  Secondly, after the memorable final last year and diligently working to have another shot at the title, Roddick fell to Yen-Hsun Lu ranked 82nd in the fourth round.  Thirdly, with his quarterfinal loss, Federer slips another notch to third in the rankings, a position Federer has not occupied since November of 2003.  Djokovic climbs up to the number two spot, a place he held earlier in the year. More importantly, Murray stands within striking distance of the number three.  With a possible injury and Federer having so many points to defend on the North American swing, at the end of the year, the rankings board may look radically different from its start.

The French are known for their flare and Nicolas Mahut is undoubtedly part of the establishment.  In the second round of qualifying, Mahut outlasted his opponent 24-22 in the third set to advance.  Then, Mahut went five sets to make it into the main draw. In the first round of the main draw, Mahut faced John Isner. On Tuesday, the match was interrupted due to darkness after the two split four sets.  When the players returned on Wednesday, the night ended with a 59-59 draw in the fifth. Even the scoreboard was exhausted, crashing when the score got to 40+.  On Thursday, the match concluded when Isner hit two consecutive winners to break Mahut and grab a 70-68 victory.

The encounter which lasted 11 hours and 5 minutes, shattered all previous records and redefined the meaning of marathon match. The fifth set alone spanned 8 hours and 11 minutes.  However, despite a full day’s rest, Isner could not recuperate.  The next round, Thiemo De Bakker, who won his prior round 16-14, dismissed a depleted Isner in just 1hour 14 minutes.  For Isner, the physical consequences may reverberate for months.

While defending champion Roger Federer did not go to such extremes, it was a struggle to survive nevertheless.  Federer was nearly a spectator as 60th ranked Alejandro Falla forced Federer to climb out of a two sets to love deficit, even serving for the match.  With a bit of “luck” as Federer put it, he moved on.  The Swiss’ second round was also tough as qualifier Ilijac Bozoljac prevailed in the second set tiebreaker. Federer carried the match by capturing the fourth set tiebreaker.  The third round, Federer played close to flawlessly against Arnaud Clement.

Rafael Nadal also willed himself to advance.  After a routine initial round, Nadal required five sets the second and third round against Robin Haase and Philipp Petzschener respectively.  More importantly, Nadal had a flare up of his niggling knee problem and was treated for elbow issue.

Following a five setter with Oliver Rochus, Novak Djokovic thumped his next opponents Taylor Dent and Albert Montanes in the subsequent rounds.  British hopeful Andy Murray has been efficient, booting his counterparts in straight sets.  Even the Queen’s first appearance at Wimbledon since 1977 did not distract her subject as Murray dispatched Jarkko Nieminen in the second round.

After an uncomplicated primary round, Andy Roddick was rattled a bit by Michael Llodra and Philipp Kohlschreiber the next rounds, pushed to four sets by each.  Roddick has friendly company into the second week as Sam Querrey secured a fourth round berth after a five set tussle with Xavier Malisse.

Unsurprisingly, his second tournament back from injury, Nikolay Davydenko fell in the second round.  Shocking though was Fernando Verdasco, the 8th seed, Marin Cilic, the 11th seed, Marcos Baghdatis, the 24th seed, and Stanislas Wawrinka, the 20th seed, all exiting their first day out.

Robin Soderling, the 6th seed, has been on cue this week.  The Swede has sailed through his matches, duration under two hours.  His first event since his back injury, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga’s performance has been mixed.  In the second round, Tsonga went five sets after having a two sets to none lead against Alexandr Dolgopolov.  Yet, the following round, Tsonga cruised against qualifier Tobias Kamke.

This tournament has seen a revival of the French veterans.  Paul-Henri Mathieu knocked out 13th seed Mikhail Youzhny and De Bakker in the second and third round respectively to earn a spot in the final 16 at a major for the first time since 2008.  Also, Julien Benneteau is into the second week after surviving two five set matches.

Conversely, Gael Monfils had his fortnight cut short by Lleyton Hewitt in the third round.  Monfils was no match for Hewitt who recently beat Federer in Halle. The Aussie is grooving on grass despite two hip surgeries.

After coasting for two matches, Tomas Berdych had to shake off Denis Istomin in five sets in the third round.  In the round of 16, Berdych could have faced Victor Hanescu, but the Romanian retired after a bizarre incident.

In front two sets to none, Hanescu was forced to a fifth set by Daniel Brands.  Irked that play was not stopped since in his opinion it was too dark, Hanescu got irritated.  A series of purposeful foot fault followed.  Then, the crowd got under Hanescu’s skin resulting in him spitting in its direction.  After being cited for a code violation, Hanescu retired stating a thigh injury.  Hanescu has been sanctioned with a substantial fine for “unsportsmanlike conduct” and the episode is still under review.  Brands, who ousted Davydenko, is the beneficiary as the 22 year old reached his first round of 16 at a major.

Taiwanese Yen-Hsun Lu also caught a break with Cilic sent out early.  The 27 year old is likewise in his maiden fourth round at a major. Tenacious David Ferrer fought his way into the second week.  Ferrer regrouped after squandering a two sets to love advantage against Jeremy Chardy in the third round.  Jurgen Melzer equally dealt with adversity to arrive to the fourth round.  In the second round, Melzer toppled Victor Troicki in five sets and came back after dropping the first set to Feliciano Lopez in the third round.

On Monday round of 16 play begins with Federer and Melzer opening the proceedings on Centre Court.  Despite their decade on tour, astonishingly, the two have never met on court.  This has been a breakthrough year for Melzer, the world number 16 and 2010 French Open semifinalist.  A lefty like Falla, but with more confidence, Federer will need to be at his best, particularly on the backhand wing, if he plans to remain in the hunt for  a record seventh title.

Another first meeting is Berdych and Brands battling for a quarterfinal spot.  As a semifinalist at the French, Berdych should have no trouble moving on to his initial Wimbledon quarterfinal where he could see Melzer or Federer.

Nadal faces Mathieu for the tenth time and has a perfect record against the Frenchman.  Therefore, the Spaniard is unlikely to fall.  Similarly, Soderling encounters Ferrer whom he has vanquished five out of seven times.  As such, Soderling could clash with Nadal in the quarterfinals.  With the way Soderling has been striking the ball, the Swede may prove an unsolvable puzzle for the world number one.

Deadlock in their head to head at 3 a piece, Tsonga and Benneteau battle for a quarterfinal berth while Murray takes on Querrey.  Although Murray has won their three prior matches, their last meeting was in October 2008 and Murray has not been up to snuff since the Australian Open.  Conversely, Querrey captured the warm-up title at Queen’s Club. Consequently, the American could provide the upset and reach his first quarterfinal at a major, possibly the semifinals with Tsonga or Benneteau as his potential quarterfinal opponent.

Already twice this year, Roddick has given Lu his marching papers.  So, it’s almost a given that Roddick will claim the quarterfinal slot.  However, the same cannot be said  for Djokovic in Hewitt’s case.  Although Djokovic has a 3-1 record versus Hewitt, the two have avoided meeting the last two years.  With Djokovic service woes, Hewitt has the door ajar to form part of the last eight.

It’s unfathomable that the excitement of this last week can ever be replicated moving into the second week.  Many questions have been raised with the performances of Federer and Nadal in the primary rounds.  For these two men who have had a lock on Wimbledon since 2003, the outsiders, Roddick, Soderling and Murray may have found a way in.