Tennis World

Wimbledon 2010 Championship: Day 3 Schedule

2010-06-23T00:44:00.000-07:00

Day 2 also faced lots of top seed packing their bags back to home, which include Fernando Verdasco(8), considering James Blake(110) not as top seed but still he is very good player in history. Nicolas Almagro(19), Juan Carlos Ferrero(14). Some very competitive player lost in first round itself.

Round 2 begins in the first half, centre court will have Michael Llodra(46) v Andy Roddick(5). Liodra who won against Jesse Witten(170) in 4 set. Roddick had a cake walk against Rajeev Ram. Another match between Taylor Dent(96) v Novak Djokovic(3). Novak who struggled against Christophe Rochus in his first round.

Court 1, will have top seeded Roger Federer(2) v Llija Bozaljac(153). Federer was on the verge of loosing in the first round but escaped, will see how will he gonna take things in his second round match. Another match worth watching is Evgeny Korolev(77) v Lleyton Hewitt(26).

Court 2, will host Gael Monfils(20) v Karol Beck(86) and Tomas Berdych(12) v Benjamin Becker(48) will see a very good match.

In Court 12 we can see Nikolay Davydenko(7) taking on Daniel Brands(100). In Court 14 top seeded Jurgen Melzer(14) v Viktor Troicki(40). Court 17:Florian Mayer(59) v Mardy Fish(70).

Wimbledon 2010 Champions: Day 2 Round Up(Mens)

2010-06-22T23:18:00.000-07:00

There was no drama for Rafael Nadal(1) against Kei Nishikori(204) at the centre court on tuesday blissfull first round 6-2, 6-4, 6-4.

Rafael Nadal mentioned “It was a very special moment coming back to the nicest centre court in the world and it was lovely being back in my favourite tournament,” said a delighted Nadal afterwards.

Robin Soderling(6) didnt had any problem defeating Robby Ginepri(69), showed his confidence of defeating both Federer and Nadal at French Open. Final score was 6-2, 6-2, 6-3 in the name of Soderling.

Court 1 witness, British No.1 Andy Murray(4) v Jan Hajek(80), of which Murray won comfortably with score of 7-5, 6-1, 6-2. Murray said "It obviously helps coming here. It's a great place to play and I've had good results here the last few years,". Another match was Robert Kendrick(162) v Jo-Wilfried Tsonga(10) of which Tsonga had to struggle abit with 7-6(2), 7-6(6), 3-6, 6-4, first 2 set was won on tie-break and losing the next set and only 1 break in the final set. Tsonga was doubtful for Wimbledon 2010 because of the hip injury while in the fourth-round match at the French Open.

Court 2 match Nicolas Kiefer(184) v David Ferrer(9), Ferrer won in a straight set 6-4, 6-2, 6-3, an easy victory. The major upset in the court 2 was match Juan Carlos Ferrero(14) v Xavier Malisse(75), Ferrero broke in the opening game surrendered the last five games 6-2, 6-7 (6), 7-6 (5), 4-6, 6-1. This is the first time Ferrero have lost his first match at All England Club.

Court 5, saw a upset of Robin Haase(151) v James Blake(110), After losing in first round Blake mentioned that his plagued by tendinitis in his right knee and he might even reassess his tennis career after the U.S. Open. Marcos Baghdatis(24) v Lukas Lacko(73), was upset of the top seed Baghdatis crumbles against Lacko gave up in four set 6-3, 2-6, 6-3, 6-1.

Court 8, Mikhail Youzhny(13) v Dudi Sela(60) of which Dudi made him run for his money, but later Youzhny won in four sets, 6-3, 6-4, 4-6, 7-6.

Court 12, Fabio Fognini(83) sends Fernando Verdasco(8) home with a 7-6(9), 6-2, 6-7(6), 6-4 victory. "I broke my big toenail and it did hurt like hell, I was almost crying," said Verdasco.

Nicolas Almagro(19) v Andreas Seppi(68) match on court 19 also witnessed a very good match between them of which Seppi won 7-6(4), 7-6(7), 6-2.

Wimbledon 2010 Championship: Day 2 Schedule

2010-06-22T01:00:00.000-07:00

After a dramatic win of 2 top seeded player Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic at the centre court. Today you can witness World No.1 Rafael Nadal(1) v Kei Nishikori(204) in action, the winner in 2008 Wimbledon and due to knee injury was unable to defend his title in year 2009. Before Nadal takes on centre stage Women's champion Serena Williams(1) v Michelle Larcher De Brito(148). Other Centre court match will be between Robin Soderling(6) v Robby Ginepri(69). Soderling upsetted Rafael Nadal in 2009 French Open and later this year troubled Roger Federer to defend his title at the French Open.

Court 1: Robert Kendrick(162) v Jo-Wilfried Tsonga(10) and later British No.1 Andy Murray(4) taking on Jan Hajek(80).

Court 2: Some very interesting match have been scheduled here. Ladies 1st round Akgul Amanmuradova(93) v Svetlana Kuznetsova(19), Anastasia Pivovarova(127) v Maria Sharapova (16). Mens 1st round match Nicolas Kiefer(184) v David Ferrer (9), Juan Carlos Ferrero(14) v Xavier Malisse(75).

Court 5: Robin Haase(151) v James Blake(110), Marcos Baghdatis(24) v Lukas Lacko(73).

Court 6: Gilles Simon(26) v Guillermo Alcaide(235).

Court 8: Mikhail Youzhny(13) v Dudi Sela(60).

Court 19: Nicolas Almagro(19) v Andreas Seppi(68).

Above mentioned are some of the big matches to watch out for today

Wimbledon 2010 Champions: Day 1 Round Up(Mens)

2010-06-21T23:07:00.000-07:00

"NEVER BACK DOWN" this was the sentence which was going on Roger Federer(2) mind. Never expected Roger had to struggle so much in the first round, he was almost in losing to Alejandro Falla(65). Later in the final set he showed what six-time Wimbledon champion is made of. I thought this would be the biggest top seed upset but the way he pulled out the thing was just awesome by 5-7, 4-6, 6-4, 7-6 (1), 6-0.

Federer was 199-28 with a record 16 titles in Grand Slam action and reached the final at 18 of the past 20 major tournaments, after win against Falla it made 200 win in Grandslam Federer will remember his entire life about this victory. Falla mentioned "Well I was thinking that i have a big opportunity to beat Federer here. Was a big chance. And I just doubted a little bit in that moment, in the first two points. And then he played good points."

Other match which was stressed out at the center court was match between Novak Djokovic(3) v Christophe Rochus(66), eventually he won 4-6, 6-2, 3-6, 6-4, 6-2, because he is a person with lots of ambition with almost 3hrs 51 mins. If the round 1 competition is more interesting, just imagine coming matches think it will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Last year finalist Andy Roddick(5) didn't had any problem winning over Rajeev Ram 6-3 6-2 6-2. Court 1 also witnessed another good match against Kevin Anderson(94) v Nikolay Davydenko(7) which was also a 5 set where in Nikolay had to battle to pass over Anderson 3-6, 6-7 (3), 7-6 (3), 7-5, 9-7.

After losing the first set Hewitt came back strong showed some confidence of defeating Federer in Halle. Maximo Gonzalez(188) lost to Lleyton Hewitt(26) score was 5-7 6-0 6-2 6-2. Gael Monfils(20) beat Leonardo Mayer(52) 6-1 7-6(9) 6-2.

Biggest upset was on court 12 and 8. Marin Cilic(12) was brought down by Florian Mayer(59) in straight set 6-2 6-4 7-6(1). Ivan Ljubicic(15) became the second big causality at Wimbledon Championship, was defeated by Michal Przysiezny(93) 7-5 7-6(5) 6-3.

Wimbledon 2010 Championship Preview

2010-06-21T01:00:00.000-07:00

This is the 124th Wimbledon Championship will be held at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in Wimbledon, London, United Kingdom starting from 21st July 2010 till July 4th 2010.

Center Court match at 1.pm against Roger Federer(2) v Alejandro Falla(65). Not necessary to give much of info on Roger mentioning he is the 2009 champion that these. But like to info on the comment made on his Rank 2 position. That he doesn't have any extra pressure this year even thou he is the 2009 champion don't know what made him to say these. But he can regain his number 1 rank if he wins Wimbledon 2010.

Roger also added "I'm happy with the way I'm playing. It was unfortunate not coming through in Halle, but I think my level of play is fine. The loss in Halle doesn't worry me in any way. So, I'm excited about Wimbledon."

The other matches to watch out in center court are Novak Djokovic(3) v Christophe Rochus(66) . Laura Robson(234) v Jelena Jankovic(3).

Court 1 will have Kevin Anderson(94) v Nikolay Davydenko(7), Rajeev Ram(92) v Andy Roddick(5) , Rossana de los Ríos(91) v Venus Williams(2).

Court 2: Kim Clijsters(8) v Maria Elena Camerin(121), Maximo Gonzalez(188) v Lleyton Hewitt(26).

You can witness other BIG matches on Court 8: Ivan Ljubicic(15) v Michal Przysiezny(93). Court 5: Gael Monfils(20) v Leonardo Mayer(52) Court 12: Marin Cilic(12) v Florian Mayer(59), Tomas Berdych(13) v Andrey Golubev(79), and Justine Henin(16) v Anastasija Sevastova(57). Court 18: Julia Goerges(72) v Marion Bartoli(13).

No Update

2010-06-21T00:58:00.000-07:00

Sorry about not clean on tennis update these days:) Will make sure will keep the blog update for this Wimbledon and later on.

ATP Tour Finals 2009: Day 4 Report

2009-11-26T04:50:00.000-08:00

Robin Solderling proved himself that his win was not just by luck, by defeating Novak Djokovic in his second match here in ATP Tour Finals at London. He hasn’t lost single set and tops the chart in group B.

Swede prevailed 7-6(7-5), 6-1 victory against a near-exhausted Novak Djokovic, the world No3. There is no question Soderling has a big game, his wide, sweeping forehands are awesome blows and he hits the ball as hard as anyone.

"I won two matches in straight sets against the world number two and three. I couldn't have asked for anything more," said Soderling.

Djokovic came into the tournament as the favorite to win the tournament and in-form player after a run of 17 wins in 18 matches, but after edging out Nikolay Davydenko in his opening Group B match, the Serb complained of tiredness - and he looked sluggish throughout against Soderling.

Nadal’s season ends in losing to Davydenko, and knocked out of the ATP Tour Finals tournament. Having lost his opening match against Sweden's Robin Soderling in straight sets, he was beaten again last night, 6-1, 7-6 by the Russian Nikolay Davydenko. It is a far cry from the start of the year, which he entered as world No1.

"I didn't arrive to this tournament with the full confidence that you need to win these matches. And in the moments that I had to play well, I didn't play well. I made mistakes.

Davydenko, however, will seek to emulate last year's performance in reaching the final, where he lost to Djokovic when the tournament was held in Shanghai.

"It was an important tie-break," Davydenko said. "Tie-break for me, it's really important. I concentrated 100 percent. I tried to win. Almost every tie-break in last few months I have won. Again, I realize my tie-break today and I won."

ATP Tour Finals 2009: Day 3 Report

2009-11-25T03:44:00.001-08:00

First match was between my favo Fernando Verdasco, he suffered a last minute defeat at the hands of Juan Del Porto. It was first meeting against each other. They were neck-and-neck throughout most of the match, until Verdasco suffered an defeat during the final tie-break, with Del Potro winning the set by 7-1.

The game lasted 2 hour 20 min and had audience over edge of the seat. Verdasco started edgily in front of an expectant crowd of more than 15,000, and trailing 2-1 in the first set, the Spaniard mis-hit the simplest of forehands. His winners was 34 to 24 but his unforced error costed him dear 38-27 against Del Potro.

"Of course I was nervous, because I knew if I lost, I would probably be going home," Del Potro later admitted.

"The win was important for my confidence, and now I hope to play my best tennis against Roger," said Del Potro.

Fed Express came through 3-6 6-3 6-1 against Murray at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals, a reminder of the gap Scotland's finest must bridge if he is to unseat the world No.1 next year. Murray's serve, which had been so dominant early on, faltered as Federer broke three times to wrap up the win.

Murray said: "I served terribly and that was the main difference in the match. "You can't serve at 40% against Roger because you give him so many opportunities to dictate play, but that's what I did.

Federer said: "I played a great match and him as well. I'm glad it lived up to the expectation. "Andy was playing well and I couldn't get a proper read on his first serve. "He's also one of the best returners in the game and when you're behind against the top guys it's not easy. "But it's a huge improvement and gives me confidence."

ATP Tour Finals 2009: Day 2 Report

2009-11-23T23:33:00.000-08:00

World No.9 Robin Solderling Stuns World No.2 Rafael Nadal ‘YET AGAIN’ 6-4,6-4 in his debut at ATP Tour Finals on Monday. This is second win in a row against Spaniard after five month victory at the French Open.

But it is unbelievable, when Rafa took over World No.1 rank from Roger last year, and made Roger cry in Australian Open for his sixth grand slam, it seemed like a man who will changed the pinnacle of men’s tennis.

"It's always fun to play against a good player. I always enjoy playing against the top guys. Nadal is for sure one of them," the Swede told reporters.

"I don't believe in revenge," said 23-year-old Nadal, who has not won a title since May. "I went on court, tried my best. I didn't think for one second about the Roland Garros match.

"It's completely different conditions and the moment is completely different, too. So it didn't affect anything. But I am working really hard to come back at my best level. I think I'm not far away from my best level."

Defending champion Novak Djokovic overcame Nikolay Davydenko and registered 11 matches triumph in a row including back-to-back titles. Novak came through 3-6, 6-4,7-5 in Monday's evening session as the two remaining players began their campaigns in the ATP Tour finals tournament.

"I haven't felt great on the court today - I'm definitely not the fittest guy on the tour right now," Djokovic said. "He was the better player in the first two sets. I was lucky to get through and win this. I was fighting for every service game and in the end I'm happy with the performance."

Davydenko is not easily quelled, though it takes an enormous amount of self-confidence and no small degree of striking the lines by his opponent when the situation demands it.

Novak Djokovic of Serbia and Nikolay Davydenko of Russia take off their shirts after the men's singles first round match and exchanged.

ATP Tour Finals 2009: Day 1 Report

2009-11-22T22:02:00.000-08:00

British number one Andy Murray wins end of year event against US Open Champion Juan Martin Del Potro 6-3, 3-6, 6-2. He doesn't feel under pressure to deliver a home triumph in the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals in London.

Murray has won six ATP titles in a year, still haven’t won any GrandSlam. Who has compiled a 65-10 match record, is looking for his second title on home soil after ending a 71-year wait for a homegrown winner at the AEGON Championships in June.

Murray was able to transition well from defence to attack and took his opportunities to carve out an early 5-0 lead in the first set.

"When I got close to winning at the end of the match, the atmosphere was excellent," said Murray of the capacity crowd on centre court at The O2. "That's going a make a big difference going into the next couple of matches."

“Against Andy, always the match is very tough,” explained del Potro. “We play three sets in every tournament, every match. Today was a little strange, but he played great tennis in the third set.

Four-time Barclays ATP World Tour Finals champion Roger Federer survived a scare on Sunday evening against Spain’s Fernando Verdasco before prevailing 4-6, 7-5, 6-1 in the second Group A match at The O2 arena in London.

He had arrived in London on the back of successive defeats in the final of the Basle Open, his home event, by Novak Djokovic, and then in his opening match of the Paris Masters, defeated by Julien Benneteau of France.

Verdasco, like his compatriot Rafael Nadal a left-hander, has had an excellent year, reaching the semi-finals of the Australian Open and qualifying for this elite eight-man field for the first time.

Verdasco will take on Del Potro with both men knowing a win is vital if they are to maintain a realistic challenge.

Sampras Won Exhibition Match at Macau

2009-10-26T03:02:00.001-07:00

Pete Sampras won in three sets against Andre Agassi Sunday as the two married American tennis sport's greatest rivalries.

The 3-6, 6-3, 10-8 in an exhibition match held at the Venetian Macao Hotel. This was the first time the two had played since Sampras won in the 2002 U.S. Open final for his then-record 14th Grand Slam.

Agassi won the first set in 27 minutes with a single break in the fourth game, but Sampras responded with a much-improved performance in the second to prevail in 21 minutes to send the match to a decider with also a single break in the third game.

Sampras led their head-to-head series 20-14, including 4-1 in Grand Slam finals. Sampras said: "Andre just hits the ball so cleanly even after being retired for three years. The pace of his shots is just very heavy. "Today he was serving great, I think he even out-aced me. It was a pleasure playing him, he is a great player with a great return of serve.

Justine Henin Confirms Her Comeback

2009-10-22T03:51:00.000-07:00

Former world No.1 Justine Henin has confirmed she will make her competitive tennis comeback at the Brisbane International in January.

"After a 15-months absence I am pleased to begin my second tennis career at the Brisbane International," Henin said in a statement.

"It will be great to get back to playing competitive tennis again and with the strong field, the same court surface and a similar climate to Melbourne, it will be the perfect preparation leading into the Australian Open."

7 grand slam winner, Henin joins a stellar field at the tournament with US Open champion and fellow comeback star Kim Clijsters also coming, along with former French Open champion Ana Ivanovic and Australia's Jelena Dokic.

Henin was the world No.1 for 117 non-consecutive weeks and has won more than $US19 million ($A20.43 million) in prize money.

Henin will be given one of four women's wildcards into Brisbane as she has no current WTA ranking. She announced her immediate retirement from professional tennis on May 14 last year when she was the current World No.1. On retiring, Henin requested that the WTA remove her name from the rankings immediately.

Shanghai ATP1000 Master 2009 - Finals

2009-10-20T03:37:00.000-07:00

Russian sixth seeded Nikolay Davydenko display superb aggressive tactics to beat World Number Two Rafael Nadal and win the Shanghai Masters 1000 event. It was a bit close match, the Russian still emerged a winner in straight sets 7-6 (7-3) 6-3.

"I cannot believe it. I'm enjoying this. Beating (Novak) Djokovic (in the semi-final) and Nadal is something amazing.I'll enjoy this week and I don't want to think about what's going to happen tomorrow or in the next tournament."

"I was so tired at the beginning in the first set. At 4-4 I was thinking I have no chance to win," said Davydenko.

Spaniard Nadal, whose season has been disrupted by knee and abdominal injuries, struggled from the beginning and despite being involved in some stunning rallies was constantly second best.

"Today is a loss but it is a positive loss," he said. "I expect to be here for a long time and play without problems for a few more years. I just can say I am going to work hard to be at my best as soon as possible and I am not seeing myself very far off that." said Spaniard.

US Open 2009: Opening Ceremony

2009-09-01T05:08:00.000-07:00

2009 US Open Ceremony was held at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Many Celebrities were present in the opening night celebration. Andre Agassi eight time Grand Slam Champion, Mia Hamm Soccer superstar, NBA Champion David Robinson and former NFL star Doug Flutie were sports legends in the ceremony.
USTA Chairman of the Board and President Lucy Garvin, host of the event was Robin Roberts, co-anchor of ‘Good Morning, America." Not to forget, Rob Thomas singing “America the Beautiful," and the O’Jays, performing “Love Train.”

Even more celebrities like, NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg, American model Christie Brinkley, Miss Universe Dayana Mendoza, WNBA stars Janel McCarville, Michelle Fletcher, Leilani Mitchell,Ashley Battle, Erin Thorn and Stephanie White.

Roger & Mirka - Twin Girls Pictures

2009-08-07T03:53:00.000-07:00

They are so adorable...... Thanks Roger:) Warm Wishes to You & Your Family..

As said in Facebook by Roger "As promised, here is a family picture that my dad took. He thinks he's becoming a professional photographer. It was very funny as both girls had the hiccups while we were trying to take a decent picture. The girls and mom are doing great. Thanks for all your warm wishes".

Pete Sampras says “he could have beaten Roger Federer”

2009-07-26T23:59:00.000-07:00

The 14-time Grand Slam champion says Federer doesn't see true serve-and-volley players and he doesn't think anyone could beat him on grass in his prime.

"I think one thing Roger doesn't see on grass is a true serve-and-volleyer, someone that's willing to come in and put pressure on him, make him pass, return," Sampras said during a recent conference call. "With these big serves, I don't think anyone really scares him. I think my game would make Roger a little more uncomfortable. I would come in on both serves, put pressure on his backhand, and go from there.

"Do I think I could have beaten Roger in my prime? Sure. I don't think anyone could beat me in my prime on grass. I felt unbeatable in the mid-'90s. But he'd be a tough guy to break, especially when he's hitting 50 aces like he did at Wimbledon. It would have been a great matchup."

Roger & Mirka Blessed With Twin Girls

2009-07-24T11:36:00.000-07:00

Roger Federer has become a father after his wife Mirka gave birth to twin girls on Thursday.

In a statement posted on his Facebook page, Federer said: "I have some exciting news to share with you. Late last night, in Switzerland, Mirka and I became proud parents of twin girls".

"We named them Myla Rose and Charlene Riva and they are both healthy and along with their mother they are doing great.

"This is the best day of our lives."

Basel (home town) Honours Roger Federer (Ehrespalebaerglemer)

2009-07-23T05:57:00.000-07:00

World No. 1 Roger Federer has been named 'Ehrespalebaerglemer', an award given to outstanding citizens of Basel. A small crowd of 200-300 fans, friends & family members attended the ceremony on 17/07/2009. The plaque sits alongside those honouring other local heroes in the historic city centre of Basel.

“It's a nice honour for me to receive the plaque and I will walk past it, I am sure, just a few more times,” said Federer. “It's going to be a proud moment, maybe also to show my kids in the future.”

Federer made history as he won a record breaking 15th Grand Slam title at Wimbledon, an epic victory over Andy Roddick.

Fighting back: Rafael Nadal Aiming to Return

2009-07-21T05:35:00.000-07:00

Rafael Nadal, who started training on monday in Majorca, after being sidelines with tendinitis in both his knees for nearly two months.

Rafael Nadal told media in Majorca "Even if I return at 100 per cent, you have to be realistic, the rest of the season is going to be difficult because after stopping for one month, almost two, you lose the rhythm of the competition."

He lost his French Open and Wimbledon titles, as well as his world No 1 spot also added "I have still one advantage over Roger Federer in that I am only 23 years old."

Nadal says he might play at the Montreal Masters, where he is the defending champion, which gets underway on Aug 8.

Wimbledon 2009: Roger Federer – What Legends Say?

2009-07-10T00:26:00.000-07:00

Roger Federer won his 15th grand slam by defeating Andy Roddick in the Men's Singles final at Wimbledon, reaction from the sporting world of Legends.

Rod Laver: "Roger's got too many shots, too much talent in one body. It's hardly fair that one person can do all this - his backhands, his forehands, volleys, serving, his court position... the way he moves around the court, you feel like he's barely touching the ground, and that's the sign of a great champion."

Pete Sampras: "I'm a fan of how he plays, what he's about... he's a class guy on and off the court. He's fun to watch. Just his athletic ability, what he's able to do on the run. I think he can and will break every tennis record out there."

Bjorn Borg: "He simply does not have any more weaknesses left in him. It is such a pleasure to see him play. To me, Roger Federer is the right model for anyone aspiring to be a tennis player. It is such a pleasure to just watch him play. His shot-making has got better and I doubt there is any shot he cannot make in any part of the court."

Jimmy Connors: "In the modern game, you're a clay-court specialist, a grass-court specialist or a hard-court specialist... or you're Roger Federer."

John McEnroe: "He's the most gifted player that I've ever seen in my life. I've seen a lot of people play. I've seen the Rod Lavers, I played against some of the great players - the Sampras, Becker, Connors, Borg, you name it. This guy could be the greatest of all time. That, to me, says it all."

Mats Wilander: "I'd like to be in his shoes for one day to know what it feels like to play that way."

Tim Henman: "I don't think there's anyone that hits the ball like that. Sure, if you take Roddick's serve and Andre Agassi's returns and my volleys and Lleyton Hewitt's speed and tenacity, then you've probably got a good chance against Federer."

Tiger Woods: "What he's done in tennis, I think, is far greater than what I've done in golf."

Tracy Austin: "I've never enjoyed watching someone playing tennis as much as Federer. I'm just in awesome. Pete Sampras was wonderful but he relied so much on his serve, whereas Roger has it all, he's just so graceful, elegant and fluid - a symphony in tennis whites. Roger can produce tennis shots that should be declared illegal."

Serena Williams: "Roger is obviously a pinnacle athlete across all sports and he just does a great job. He's so graceful out there. I love watching him play. I learn so much from him."

Andy Roddick: "It's almost impossible. That's one of the most impressive stats that we'll see in tennis." (Federer's 21 consecutive grand slam semi-finals).

Wimbledon 2009:Finals(Men's)

2009-07-07T22:08:00.001-07:00

Roger Federer has been crowned Wimbledon champion for the sixth time after an epic victory over Andy Roddick on Sunday. The day when Andy Roddick’s serve was broken just the once, in the 77th game of a 77-game Wimbledon men’s final. That one break of Roddick’s was all that Roger Federer needed to take the fifth set 16-14, to become the first man to win 15 grand slams, and to regain the world No 1 ranking.

Federer’s 5-7, 7-6, 7-6, 3-6, 16-14 victory meant that, the greatest number of games ever played in a men's final. After his victory in a five-set battle that lasted four hours and 16 minutes, the debate was reignited over whether the 27-year old is now beyond doubt the best tennis player of all time.

The All England Club will lament having witnessed a men's singles final so commendable that the fans wound up chanting the name of the man who did not win: "Roddick! Roddick! Roddick!" they roared.

When Roddick came out to serve at 14-15, it was the 11th time that he had got up off his chair to serve to stay in the match. Roddick had won his previous 37 service games. A forehand error from Roddick’s racket brought up match point for Federer. Another forehand mistake from Roddick, and the match was over.

Federer’s reaction to victory was to leap into the air. Roddick’s reaction, after an embrace with Federer at the net, was to fling his racket on to the grass, and to then sit down on his changeover chair, and to put his head in his hands as he waited for the prize-giving ceremony.

"Roddick, I think, is going to be so difficult to beat again," Federer said, proving he's outrageously talented and occasionally prescient.

"Sorry, Pete," Roddick would say moments later toward Pete Sampras in the front row of the Royal Box. "I tried to hold him off.". "I lost," Roddick summarized inaccurately.The first question to a brooding Roddick went: "Did you just lose to the world's greatest tennis player ever?" Roddick, in a word: "Yes."

"You know, he was having trouble picking up my serve today for the first time ever," Roddick said. "He just stayed the course. You know, you didn't even get a sense that he was even really frustrated by it.

Longest game

Set

14-16 Roger Federer v Andy Roddick, 2009
13-11 Jaroslav Drobny v Ken Rosewall, 1954; Ashley Cooper v Neale Fraser, 1958

Most games

77 Roger Federer v Andy Roddick, 2009
62 Rafael Nadal v Roger Federer, 2008

Time

4hrs 48mins Roger Federer v Rafael Nadal 2008
4hrs 16mins Roger Federer v Andy Roddick, 2009; Jimmy Connors v John McEnroe 1982

The longest ever Wimbledon match...

Pancho Gonzales’s first-round encounter with Charlie Pasarell in 1969 was so long it prompted the introduction of the tie-break. After 5hrs 12mins and 112 games, Gonzales won 22-24, 1-6, 16-14, 6-3, 11-9.

Wimbledon 2009: Daily preview (Day 9) Men’s

2009-07-02T22:11:00.000-07:00

Last year Roddick suffered his earliest exit at Wimbledon when he was beaten in the second round by Janko Tipsarevic. This year he will play British favorite Andy Murray for a place in the final. The sixth seed booked his fifth Wimbledon semi-final with a 6-3, 6-7 (12-10), 7-6 (7-1), 4-6, 6-4 victory over Hewitt that took two hours and 55 minutes.

Roddick served 43 aces in the match, with a top speed of 140mph. Not only did he serve aces, he served them when they mattered. It had been an ominous start from the American who won his first service game to love, including a 139mph ace, then promptly broke Hewitt’s serve.

Tommy Haas, the oldest man in the draw, brushed aside Novak Djokovic, the No.4 seed and the youngest man left in the tournament 7-5, 7-6 (8-6), 4-6, 6-3 in the quarter finals. He is 31 and has learned the value of fitness, training and preparation.

The German took a distinctly old-fashioned approach to playing on grass – he kept attacking the net. That was when he was not staying back and using his stunning backhand to unpick the Serb’s defenses. Djokovic was playing in the modern way – thumping ground strokes and explosive power.

Roger Federer is in such confident form at the 2009 Championships that even gun does not faze him. Wimbledon's five-time champion cruised into the semi-finals with a 6-3, 7-5, 7-6 (7-3) victory in an hour and 43 minutes. It was Federer who proved supreme when it came to serving. Never faced a break point and was only once threatened by having his delivery taken to deuce.

Karlovic, came into this quarter-final contest having served 137 aces in his first four matches. He had also won all of his 79 service games and faced only four break points. These statistics in only the fourth game of the opening set, breaking the unbreakable serve by tackling the Karlovic power head on.

Andy Murray as the number three seed beat Juan Carlos Ferrero 7-5, 6-3, 6-2 on Centre Court. The authoritative victory over the former world number one puts Murray through to his first Wimbledon semi-final. Murray was winning his serve with ease, and Ferrero had to work much harder to hold on to his serve.

Last month at Queen’s where Murray wrapped up a simple straight sets victory. True, the Spaniard had a couple of jitters at the outset, and he pushed a half-volley long to give Murray an early chance to break. But nonetheless the Spaniard was playing a canny game.

Wimbledon 2009: Daily preview (Day 7) Men’s

2009-06-30T05:55:00.000-07:00

The first match to be played in its entirely under a closed roof at Wimbledon turned out to be a classic as well as a marathon as Andy Murray staged a dramatic recovery to defeat Stanislas Wawrinka in five sets, 2-6 6-3 6-3 5-7 6-3, and gain a place in the quarter-finals for the second successive year.

The 3rd seed, under relentless pressure to become the first British player to win the Wimbledon men's crown for 73 years, had been in serious trouble early on against Wawrinka. These two men are good friends and regular practice partners, but there was nothing friendly about the fashion in which Wawrinka went after Murray in that opening set, serving brilliantly and hammering ground strokes which reduced Murray to frustration.

Roger Federer trod a 6-4, 7-6 (7-5), 7-6 (7-5) reassuringly familiar pathway (rematch of this month’s French Open final) into the quarter-finals when he defeated Sweden's Robin Soderling in their Centre Court. It was Roger’s 11th successive victory over Soderling.

Even though the result was never really in doubt, it always felt like a close match, with Soderling riding high on a potent serve, which was broken only once. Unfortunately, he never captured the Federer delivery.

Lleyton Hewitt, the 2002 Wimbledon champion, struggled through the first two sets against Radek Stepanek, he came back reinvigorated after a medical timeout, and even a break for rain could not stop him. Hewitt emerged victorious 4-6, 2-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 after two hours 54 minutes and his first Grand Slam quarter-final in three years.

Stepanek had injury problems of his own, had endured two draining five-setters in his second and third round matches. Yet it was Stepanek who started the match full of energy. Hewitt showed typical spirit in saving four set points but a fifth proved too much.

Roddick won 7-6 (7-4), 6-4, 6-3 in one hour and 48 minutes and is now one victory short of his third Wimbledon semi-final. Roddick turned Berdych’s form upside down in his win. Roddick blew all that away with a strong and accurate hitting performance that justifies his optimism before Wimbledon started.

Berdych had come into the last 16 without dropping a set, something he had not achieved in a Grand Slam since 2007. This showed that he was finding his feet again on grass and he might even have fancied his chances of making the quarter-finals.

Fourth seed Novak Djokovic moved comfortably into the quarter-finals with a 6-2, 6-4, 6-1 win over unseeded Israeli Dudi Sela. He is creeping through the draw without fanfare, produced a solid display, firing off 11 aces and 30 winners.

Sela was clearly enjoying the moment in what has been the best year of his career. He also reached the third round, as a qualifier, at this year’s Australian Open.

It was the giant Croatian Ivo Karlovic, pattern of aces(he served up 35 aces today) and very few rallies - in which the tiebreaks became all-important and he prevailed 7-6 (7-5), 6-7 (4-6), 6-4, 7-6 (11-9) in three hours and one minute against crowd darling Fernando Verdasco. This tie was also destined to be a close-fought battle of very few chances.

The crowd simply rejoiced when either player grabbed a return point, to break up the love service games that were becoming so common. Both players then had opportunities to win the tiebreak.

Juan Carlos Ferrero became the first wild card since Goran Ivanisevic in 2001 to make the quarter-finals at Wimbledon after clinically dispatching eighth seed Gilles Simon 7-6 (7-4), 6-3, 6-2. The Spaniard played solid tennis throughout the contest and stood firm.

Simon, meanwhile, had been on a terrible run coming into the tournament, barely able to string two wins together over the past few months, but he put this behind him to make a run to the fourth round here, dropping only one set on the way.

Tommy Haas needed just three sets to get past Igor Andreev 7-6 (10-8), 6-4, 6-4 and into the quarter-finals. It had started off as a tense, tightly fought match. But using his greater experience, Haas managed to break away by taking the critical points in this their first meeting on grass.

This was a match of big-hitters, with both players regularly sending down serves in excess of 120mph. Both had survived five-setters in previous rounds but any chance of that happening disappeared as Haas grew in confidence and Andreev faded as the match went on.

Wimbledon 2009: Daily preview (Day 6) Men’s

2009-06-30T05:47:00.000-07:00

Andy Murray's gathered massive momentum as he cruised into the last 16 by crushing Serbia's Viktor Troicki 6-2 6-3 6-4 in 96 minutes. Troicki, who had suffered two embarrassing defeats previously at the hands of Murray, made his Centre Court debut clearly with the intention of blasting the Scot off the court where he has so far been so comfortable.

The number six seed Andy Roddick securing his place in Monday’s last 16 with a 7-6 (7-2), 7-6 (7-2), 4-6, 6-3 win over the Austrian Jurgen Melzer. Eight times before today they have met, and eight times the American has triumphed. American is second only to Federer with the most grasscourt wins among current players.

Hewitt, the world No. 56, is a former Wimbledon and US Open Champion who came into this match with a career Grand Slam record of 122-40. Petzschner, the world No.55, has won just the single title and before this match his Grand Slam record was 5-4, and that was all the difference. Only one place in the world rankings separates Lleyton Hewitt and Philipp Petzschner, and little separated the players for much of their third round match, which Hewitt won 7-5, 7-6 (7-3), 6-3.

Juan Carlos Ferrero, the former world number one, came through an extraordinary match to beat the number 10 seed Fernando Gonzalez on No.1 Court. Ferrero, playing as a wild card because his ranking was not high enough to justify automatic entry into the draw, emerged victorious from a see-saw encounter 4-6, 7-5, 6-4, 4-6, 6-4. It was a bolt from the blue, and Ferrero greeted it with a Nadal-like cry of: “Vamos!”

Simon beat Hanescu 6-2, 7-5, 6-2 in one hour and 27 minutes to reach the fourth round for the first time. The French challenge in the men’s singles now rests exclusively with 24-year-old Gilles Simon who is their lone survivor after his straight sets win over Victor Hanescu of Romania.

Czech Tomas Berdych finally broke his hoodoo against Nikolay Davydenko, taking just 107 minutes to crush the Russian No.12 seed for the first time in nine meetings. Berdych, the 20th seed, looked impressive from the outset and secured 6-2, 6-3, 6-2. Berdych added: “I can’t wait till next week. This was by my best match and performance this year. I played very well and believe I’m getting better and better with each match.”

Stanislas Wawrinka played low-risk tennis and outlasted Jesse Levine 5-7, 7-5, 6-3, 6-3 to move into the fourth round. Wawrinka played the ball at a comfortable height onto the American’s forehand and then watched as it was fired back past him. Levine can take heart from his five-match winning run and then here in the main draw.

Wimbledon 2009: Daily preview (Day 5) Men’s

2009-06-30T05:40:00.000-07:00

The golden rules of sport kept Roger Federer on Centre Court for rather longer than he would have liked today. The Swiss slipped into experimental mood rather than applying the killer touch and paid for it when he dropped his first set of the tournament before bouncing back to win 6-3, 6-2, 6-7 (5-7), 6-1.

For 28th seed Philipp Kohlschreiber, that fateful day came in the third round here at Wimbledon. “When the draw came it I thought it was probably the worst one I could have got,” he said with a philosophical shrug after his 6-3, 6-2, 6-7, 6-1 defeat to the de facto top seed in the absence of Rafael Nadal. “You look to see when you’ve got Federer and then think ‘well that’s the end of the line’.”

A four-hour marathon on No.1 Court was suspended in the gathering darkness at 9.33pm with Marin Cilic and Tommy Haas standing level at 5-7, 5-7, 6-1, 7-6 (7-3) and the final set on a knife-edge at 6-6. By the time they were forced to give in to the failing light.

Novak Djokovic, the fourth seed and probably the greatest threat to Roger Federer's peace of mind in the lower half of the men's singles draw, marched into the last 16 with a solid and competent 6-4 6-4 6-4 victory in one hour 58 minutes over Mardy Fish of the US.

Ivo Karlovic served his way to victory with a 7-6 (7-5), 6-7 (5-7), 7-5, 7-6 (7-5) win over the eighth seeded Jo-Wilfried Tsonga of France on No.1 Court. It was a fine win for the 22nd seed at the age of 30 because he had been beaten in the first round for each of the past four years here and despite having a game suited for grass.

Facing such a big server, Tsonga knew what was coming even though he had not played Karlovic previously. But the Frenchman is no slouch himself when it comes to serve and volley, which is why he was able to sustain his challenge for so long.

Fernando Verdasco came from a set behind to dispose of Albert Montanes 4-6, 6-1, 6-4, 7-6 (7-2) victory played in glorious conditions on No.2 Court this afternoon . Verdasco wasn’t playing badly in the first set but that Montanes simply slapped the life out of the ball and hit the lines with incredible accuracy, giving the illusion that his top 10 opponent was a tad slow around the court.

Soderling beat Nicolas Almagro 7-6 (9-7), 6-4, 6-4 in just under two hours on Court 3 to set-up a replay of the French Open final against Roger Federer in the fourth round. Soderling was so consistent on his serve that Almagro did not get a break point opportunity all match. Yet it was hard work for him to manufacture break points of his own.

Wimbledon 2009: Daily preview (Day 4) Men’s

2009-06-26T05:48:00.000-07:00

Andy Murray accelerated into the third round with a 6-2, 7-5, 6-3 win over talented Latvian Ernests Gulbis in 88 minutes, with plenty of indicators that he could rev up British hopes right until Wimbledon's main contenders reach the end of the road a week on Sunday.

There was one brief glimmer of hope for 20-year-old Gulbis, right at the start when Murray somehow contrived to let slip his only two break points of the entire match. Murray, 22, was having a fine time of it, clearly able to read much of Gulbis’s play and out-thinking him. Gulbis seemed thoroughly thrown off balance.

Lleyton Hewitt, moving and roaring as if the last seven years had never happened, scored perhaps his finest win at The Championships since becoming the champion in 2002 as he crushed Argentina's Juan Martin Del Potro 6-3 7-5 7-5 in two hours 32 minutes .

The 20-year-old Del Potro, seeded fifth which meant he was theoretically lined up for a semi-final spot following Rafael Nadal’s withdrawal, never looked like subduing the Australian attack dog - the only male representative from his country at a tournament once dominated by great players from Down Under.

Andy Roddick has stated his intent at The Championships with a 6-4, 6-2, 3-6, 6-2 win over Igor Kunitsyn to reach the third round.Sure enough, Roddick seemed to be his usual powerful self. The serve was working well as he thumped down 18 aces and 39 unreturnable serves and kept his serving statistics at a healthy 71% accuracy. Kunitsyn was trying his best to compete. He, too, has a vicious serve on him and, for the first few games, was keeping pace on the thunderbolt tally with his opponent.

After the match, Roddick was not concerned about being broken in the third set. "A win is a win. The set I got broken, I had numerous break chances and [he] got the one that [he] had.
Tenth seed Gonzalez has never got beyond the quarter-finals and has struggled on grass throughout his career. He started slowly against Mayer but came back from a set down to beat the Argentine in a match of few service breaks.

Gonzalez was never at his best but took his chances on the important points, winning three out of four break points to claim a solitary break in each set. He eventually triumphed 6-7 (4-7), 6-4, 6-4, 6-4, taking the match with a backhand volley.

American qualifier Jesse Levine awaits in the third round. Levine has enjoyed a fine Wimbledon, knocking out Marat Safin in the first round, and he beat Pablo Cuevas 6-2, 6-1, 4-6, 4-6, 6-3 to further enhance his reputation.

Radek Stepanek is no stranger to long matches at Wimbledon and he featured in his sixth five-set match in the space of three years at the All England Club. The No.23 seed came through 6-4, 4-6, 6-2, 4-6, 6-3 against Potito Starace.

Juan Carlos Ferrero had a similar afternoon to Gonzalez. He, too, was beaten in the first set, by Fabrice Santoro in a tiebreak. But the 2003 French Open winner’s experience made the difference in the end and he won 6-7 (1-7), 6-3, 6-4, 6-3.

There were no such worries for seeds Nikolay Davydenko, Victor Hanescu, Stanislas Wawrinka, David Ferrer and Tomas Berdych who all steamrolled their opponents in straight sets on a day of few upsets.

Wimbledon 2009: Daily preview (Day 3) Men’s

2009-06-26T00:57:00.000-07:00

Roger Federer's Wimbledon stroll continues. Having conceded a mere seven games in the first round, the second seed and five-time champion permitted Guillermo Garcia-Lopez of Spain just eight games as he forced his way into the last 32 of the men's singles.

His display in a 6-2, 6-2, 6-4 win in the Centre Court sunshine was another master class of tennis. It is already becoming very clear that the Swiss will take some stopping at the 2009 Championships.

Federer was impregnable on serve, dropping just five points in a 27-minute first set - one of which was that eye-opening rarity, a double fault from the Swiss - and he faced only two break points in the entire match.

There cannot have been many observers on No.1 Court expecting much of Simon Greul in his second-round match against fourth seed Novak Djokovic, entertaining attacking play, before Djokovic emerged the 7-5, 6-1, 6-4 winner.

Loose shots from Djokovic, along with a double fault, handed a break to the German in the first game. Greul was developing a taste for grasscourt play, fooling his opponent with an approach to the net and a great dropshot on the half-volley. But when he tried another dropshot from the baseline, it tipped back on the wrong side of the net to give Djokovic break point.

The battle of the big hitters between California and Croatia went the way of Europe in the late evening on Centre Court when Marin Cilic outlasted Sam Querrey in a five-set marathon 4-6, 7-6 (7-3), 6-3, 6-7 (4-7), 6-4 in three hours 24 minutes.

For much of this gripping encounter, it was Querrey's ability to produce an ace - he hit 24 of them. The 11th-seeded Cilic needed a touch of good fortune, and found it when he broke the Querrey serve with an outrageously lucky net cord that fell dead into the American's side of the court.

There was more good news for Croatia as the 6ft 10in Ivo Karlovic defeated Belgium's Steve Darcis 7-5, 6-3, 6-4 to join Cilic in the third round.

Fernando Verdasco of Spain was forced to fight for nearly three hours before overcoming Kristof Vliegen of Belgium in a battle of the big servers on Court 3. Verdasco, the seventh seed, eventually won 7-6 (7-3), 6-7 (7-3), 7-6 (7-4), 6-4, the score reflecting the dominance of both players’ serving on a warm day when the conditions complimented power play.

Both players maintained the intensity of their serving through to the fourth set when Vliegen was the victim of the only service break. With Verdasco ahead 5-4, and on the match point, the Belgian gifted him the match with a forehand error off the service return.

Surprise French Open runner-up Robin Soderling was pushed all the way in his 4-6, 7-6 (9-7), 6-4, 7-5 victory over Marcel Granollers. Throughout the two hour 46 minute contest.Granollers had begun the season by reaching the semi-finals at Chennai and peaking at No.44 in the world but was then unable to string together two wins in a row. Soderling was on a similar run, even dropping down to the Challenger circuit when he lost in the first round at Indian Wells.

Wimbledon 2009: Daily Preview (Day 2) Men’s

2009-06-24T05:57:00.000-07:00

The first hurdle has been cleared and Andy Murray is through to the second round of The Championships. Murray won 7-5, 6-7 (3-7), 6-3, 6-4 and his 2009 campaign was under way.

It was a tough match for me," said a relieved Murray afterwards. "He was a difficult opponent who made it hard for me. He played very aggressive but it was a good test for me at this stage." “I’ve played him a few times so I knew what to expect,” said the number three seed of the American. “I was disappointed to lose the second set because I had a couple of chances and didn’t take them.

Andy Roddick’s reputation as one of the strongest and fastest servers in the game was underlined yet again as he powered down 21 aces during a 6-3, 7-6 (7-3), 4-6, 6-3 win over France’s Jeremy Chardy.

Roddick’s mission this year is to re-establish himself a little nearer the top of the game while he has the chance. He has a new coach, Larry Stefanki, who has targeted Wimbledon as the most obvious target for Roddick’s abilities. After all, Roddick has twice been a finalist so it may just need a fraction extra all round to make the essential difference.

The biggest upset in this round is undoubtedly the shocking defeat of Russian, Marat Safin. His hopes of emulating the semi-final success he achieved at The Championships last year were dashed as he signed off from his final Wimbledon with a first-round defeat by American qualifier Jesse Levine 6-2, 3-6, 7-6 (7-4), 6-4. the Russian No.14 seed looked distinctively out of sorts and wild ground strokes were in abundance. At 4-1 down in the opening set he was handed a code violation for racket abuse.

After the match Safin said: "Thanks for the guy who made the call. I want to say hello to him. Too bad that he was a little bit too blind today. But anyway, that's tennis. That's tiebreak."

However, he confessed that he was 'relieved' that this was the end of his Wimbledon road. "It was not really my day. Not the perfect thing. Not the way to finish Wimbledon story. But anyway, it's okay. That's life. There is plenty of years coming towards me, so..."

In the same section of the draw Frenchman, Gilles Simon easily defeated American, Bobby Reynolds 6-4, 6-3, 6-3. Juan Martin Del Potro destroyed Frenchmen, Arnaud Clement 6-3, 6-1, 6-2 while Australian, Lleyton Hewitt’s defeat of American, Robby Ginepri 6-4, 6-1, 6-1.

Wimbledon 2009 – Daily Preview (Day 1) Women’s

2009-06-23T06:50:00.001-07:00

In the ladies’, Second seed Serena Williams is safely through to the second round of the 2009 Championships, but she was given a more demanding test than many had expected before overcoming qualifier Neuza Silva 6-1, 7-5 in one hour 14 minutes on Centre Court.

Jie Zheng is safely through to the second round. Another run could be on the cards after the 16th seed disposed of Germany’s Kristina Barrois in twin tie-breaks, 7-6 (7-2), 7-6 (7-4). Zheng faces Daniela Hantuchova, conqueror of junior champion Laura Robson in the second round.

Russian Alla Kudryavtseva stunned the tennis world when she knocked out her compatriot Maria Sharapova last year in the third round. But she was unable to repeat the feat against countrywoman Elena Dementieva this time. No.4 seed Dementieva barely had to break sweat as she won 6-4, 6-1.

Russian Nadia Petrova, a quarter-finalist here last year, comfortably saw off the challenge of Anastasiya Yakimova 6-1, 6-1. India's Sania Mirza moved into the second round after beating Germany’s Anna-Lena Groenefeld 6-2, 2-6, 6-2.

Victoria Azarenka has won three titles already this year, and she benefited from an injury to her opponent Severine Bremond Beltrame who retired hurt. Azarenka had already taken the first set 6-2 when the Frenchwoman Bremond Beltrame was forced to retire after spraining her knee in a fall.

Another tight game followed on Court 3 saw the first female seed to depart. Francesca Schiavone of Italy came back from a set down to knock out Canadian No.23 seed Aleksandra Wozniak 4-6, 6-4, 6-4.

Wimbledon 2009 – Daily Preview (Day 1) Men’s

2009-06-23T04:38:00.000-07:00

Federer's warm welcome to officially open the 2009 Championships was probably a mixture of affection for the five-time champion and approval for his eye-catching and stylish apparel - long trousers, jacket with the collar turned up and, underneath that, a fitted waistcoat, all in white and all discarded prior to the Swiss marching out to hold his first two service games to love.

Roger Federer justified his role as favourite to win the 2009 men's title by swatting aside the challenge of Yen-Hsun Lu from Taipei 7-5, 6-3, 6-2 on a Centre Court where, despite overcast conditions, the new roof remained open throughout.

Blake was not so lucky against Andreas Seppi. Seppi is the chap who once confessed self-depreciatingly to booking his flight home before even taking to the court against Nadal. But the Italian can bash a ball, as Blake discovered, and his 7-5, 6-4, 7-6 victory was relatively straightforward, leaving Blake to consider how his excellent run at Queen's led to this.

Verdasco, an Australian Open semi-finalist this year, spelled out the pattern of the match in the opening game, where his swashbuckling strokeplay plundered an immediate break. That was the case today when the number seven seed Fernando Verdasco saw off James Ward 6-1, 6-3, 6-4.

Fourth seed Novak Djokovic survived an endurance test against Frenchman Julien Benetteau to win through to the second round but he needed three hours and 28 minutes of concerted effort to complete the job.

Benettau, in his sixth Wimbledon, shocked Djokovic by winning a 61-minute first set but was hit by falls in the third game of the third set and the last game of the match, which did not help his cause and it allowed Djokovic to clinch victory 6-7 (10-8), 7-6 (7-5), 6-2, 6-4 on his third match point.

The new No. 2 Court witnessed a thriller as ninth seeded Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga battled through his first round match against Kazakhstan’s Andrey Golubev, a man ranked 62 places below him, in four sets, 6-3, 5-7, 7-6 (7-4), 7-6 (7-5).

Robin Soderling was a star. The Swede was the first man to beat Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros and, from that fourth-round victory, he went all the way to the final. And then he lost. Now he has another shot at the fame game in SW19 after beating Gilles Muller in the first round 6-7 (7-4), 7-5, 6-1, 6-2. The 13th seed almost missed his chance, mind you, dropping the first set, but after he got his nose in front in the second, it was plain sailing.

Now he has another shot at the fame game in SW19 after beating Gilles Muller in the first round 6-7 (7-4), 7-5, 6-1, 6-2. The 13th seed almost missed his chance, mind you, dropping the first set, but after he got his nose in front in the second, it was plain sailing.

An even longer match occurred on court 18 as Feliciano Lopez became the second seed to go out of the men’s tournament, following James Blake’s earlier exit to Andreas Seppi. The Spanish No.21 seed was beaten in a marathon five- setter 1-6, 7-5, 6-3, 4-6, 10-8 by Karol Beck of Slovakia in three hours, 45 minutes.

Spectators on Court 12, meanwhile, were treated to a very un-Wimbledon-like experience: the sight of a chair umpire doubling up as a bouncer when hostilities broke out between Juan Monaco and Nicholas Almagro in their epic match which ended 6-7, 6-7, 7-6, 6-4, 8-6 in the latter's favour.

Wimbledon 2009: Doubts grow for Nadal after losing to Hewitt

2009-06-19T06:19:00.000-07:00

World No 1 and Wimbledon top seed Rafael Nadal suffered defeat and discomfort at the hands of Lleyton Hewitt on Thursday. Rafael Nadal's hopes of being able to defend his Wimbledon title suffered a significant blow on Thursday, when he struggled with knee problems during a surprise 6-4, 6-3 defeat by Australia's Lleyton Hewitt at the Hurlingham Club.

The Spaniard was still visibly discomforted by the injuries that had forced his withdrawal from the Aegon Classic at Queen's Club last week and struggled to cope with Hewitt's fierce sliced returns.

His uncle and coach, Toni Nadal, said: "The problem is that he cannot bend his knees. He was not happy out there. You saw what he was doing."

Toni explained that Nadal's team had brought over an "electro-magnetic machine" from Spain to help treatment. "But at the moment, that is not enough. We will see what happens."

"I don't know [if he will play at Wimbledon], we have to wait for Friday."

Nadal wore no strapping on his knees but he was suffering strain in both, failing to get down for low half-volleys that he would have found routine last year. He conveyed his frustration at several points to Toni Nadal, who was sitting courtside.

Nadal said nothing afterwards before speeding off for treatment but Toni made it clear that today's second exhibition match against Swiss Stanislas Wawrinka would be crucial in determining Nadal's readiness for Wimbledon.

Wimbledon 2009: Federer the man to beat says Pat Rafter

2009-06-18T01:39:00.000-07:00

Roger Federer remains the man to beat at Wimbledon, despite "not being the player he was", says former SW19 finalist Pat Rafter. World number two Federer, fresh from a maiden triumph at the French Open, will be looking to win back the title he lost to Spain's Rafael Nadal last year.

"Federer is my tip to win but, saying that, he is not the player he was two years ago. "He is hanging in there, trying to win another Slam and he loves Wimbledon."

Coming on the back of his victory over Nadal in the final of the Madrid Open - also on clay - led some commentators to hint the Swiss is on his way back to the top of his game, having been knocked off the number one perch by his Spanish rival last year.

But two-time US Open champion Rafter insists it is only a matter of time before one of the emerging talents in the game, led by British number one Andy Murray, ends the pair's Slams supremacy.

"It's one of those things that someone will be ready sooner or later, and it will be interesting to see when that time comes for Andy”. "Whether it is this year or not, though, I'm sure somewhere in his career he'll win a couple of Grand Slams." said the 36-year-old Australian.
However, the Spaniard has struggled recently, despite winning the Australian Open in January. He lost to Federer in the final of the Madrid Open, crashed out of the French Open at the fourth-round stage to Robin Soderling - his first ever defeat at Roland Garros - before pulling out of last week's Queen's tournament with knee trouble. He has been undergoing intensive rehabilitation in a bid to be fit to defend his Wimbledon title since, but Rafter says the tournament could come around too soon for the world number one.

"We saw Rafael really struggle at the French Open - he never looked good from the get go," he said. "It will be interesting to see what his preparation is going to be like because, obviously, it will be very light; how will his knees hold up?"

"Novak Djokovic is another one who wants some sort of confirmation that he has another Grand Slam in him... but Federer is my favourite to win it at this stage."

Wimbledon 2009: Wimbledon legend John McEnroe believes Andy Murray's fitness intimidates his opponents

2009-06-18T01:24:00.000-07:00

Murray has won six of his eight career meetings with Federer, including their last four matches, and McEnroe said that the Swiss does not like it one bit.

"The cat-and-mouse style Murray plays is something I like to see. It's a thinking man's game and he has got into Roger's head right now. He's got into Roger's head pretty good recently," McEnroe said.

"Murray's legs are thicker than I've ever seen them, his bounce around the back of the court is impressive, and he's intimidating people with his fitness, which was an issue at the start of his career. His movement is amazing when you think how tall he is. He has got more pop on his serve and he continues to befuddle guys mentally."

When McEnroe was in his prime, no one was ever left under any illusions as to what he was thinking on a tennis court, and it could be argued that the most emotional player on tour now is Federer. McEnroe raged, and Federer cries.

"It was strange to see Federer in tears after he lost the Australian Open final to Nadal," said McEnroe, a winner of three Wimbledon titles, who will be commentating for the BBC at the All England Club this year. "I had an emotional moment with him at Wimbledon last year. I was really surprised to see that happen again in Australia. That shows a vulnerability on Federer's part. In the old days, you wouldn't see that from almost anybody. I think it will bring him some support and show that he's human. That could help him when times get tough.

Still, at least Federer shed some 'happy tears' in Paris this month after winning the French Open for the first time.

Wimbledon 2009: Andy Murray and Roger Federer will be hard to beat this year at Wimbledon according to Bjorn Borg

2009-06-18T01:20:00.000-07:00

The Spanish world number one suffered a shock fourth-round defeat to Robin Soderling at the French Open as he missed the chance for a fifth consecutive triumph on the clay of Roland Garros, and has since been troubled by knee problems.

Nevertheless, Borg - the last man before Nadal to win both the French Open and Wimbledon in the same season - feels the Spaniard will be a spent force at SW19. "Nadal is always a dangerous player because he is the best in the world - but what happened in Paris and then the injury, I am picking Murray or Federer,"

"I am sure he was very, very disappointed when he went home after Paris. That defeat took him many, many days to get over.

"Nadal is saying he has got an injury, but he has to be fit at Wimbledon if he wants to go all the way, and I do not think he will go all the way this year."
"I do not think he was ready to win Wimbledon last year, but it is a different story now. He is ready to win it this year.

"He has no weaknesses, he can play on all kinds of surfaces and I was very impressed what he did on the clay court surface. He was hitting the ball extremely well.

"Andy Murray seems to find himself on the court and knows how to behave, focus and play his game.

"He has matured a lot as a person over the last year and as a tennis player. "If you compare him now to a few years ago he is a completely different player on the court. "He is ready to win a Grand Slam tournament and is one of my favourites to win Wimbledon."Andy is physically and mentally strong, but there is going to be huge pressure - however, he can handle it if he focuses on the things he can do."

Borg added: "If not Wimbledon, he can win the US Open, but if he does not win Wimbledon this year, then he has a good chance in the years to come.

"One day, eventually, Andy Murray will win Wimbledon."

Roger Federer, Still What to Achieve?

2009-06-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

Roger Federer has now won 14 Grand Slam titles,that 14 wins in the last 24 Grand Slams, tied with Pete Sampras (took 45) for the most in men's tennis history, and he likely won't be stopping there.

We can ask how he stacks up to the other all-time greats, but that's just a guessing game. Here's a better question: What hasn't Federer accomplished yet?

Olympic Singles Champion - Andre Agassi

Roger have dominated big tournaments but haven't won Olympics. He was a semifinalist in 2000, lost in the second round in 2004 and made the quarters in 2008.

Agassi is still the only male to have won all the Slams and a gold medal in singles for his career. Maybe the 2012 Olympics in London will be Federer's lucky charm all matches will be played at the All England Club.

Calendar year Grand Slam - Rod Laver

Laver won the French, Wimbledon, US and Australian crowns in the one calendar year, 1969. Incredibly, it was his second time, having first managed it in 1962.

Roger who has made 20 consecutive Grand Slam semifinals, it's certainly a possibility.

Real Grand Slam - Margaret Court

With 11 Australian singles, and five doubles, titles to her name Margaret Court (nee Smith) is arguably the greatest female player in the tournament’s history.

Federer has a ways to go to reach that mark,averaging over two per year, another five years oughta do it, right?

French-Wimbledon sweep - Bjorn Borg

Borg won both the French Open and Wimbledon in the same year, thrice. Nadal has done it, too last year.

Now that Federer has step one in the books, he can turn his attention to another test of tennis endurance, two Slams in one month.

All-time ATP wins record - Jimmy Connors

Connors finished his 22-year career with 1,241 wins on the ATP Tour. Federer is now at 650. This isn't exactly an accurate benchmark, though.

The ATP didn't exist until 1972 — after Connors had already hit the scene — so many of the game's greats are out of the running.

11 straight years with a Grand Slam final - Ivan Lendl/Pete Sampras

Lendl and Sampras both made it to at least one Grand Slam final in 11 consecutive years, an open-era record. Federer has done it in seven so far and shows no signs of slowing up.

Sure, that 20 straight Grand Slam semifinals run is pretty impressive, but let's take it one step further, Rog, and do it over a long period of time.

Career doubles Slam - Roy Emerson

Emerson is the only male player to have won singles and doubles titles at all four Grand Slam tournaments. His 28 Grand Slam titles are an all-time record for a male player.

Federer has had doubles success with countryman Stanislas Wawrinka, winning gold at the Beijing Olympics. Maybe it's time for a new challenge?

Grand Slam Diversity - Steffi Graf

Steffi Graf won an incredible 107 career WTA singles titles and 11 career doubles titles. She captured an astounding 22 Grand Slam singles titles in a 13-year span. She won seven times at Wimbledon, six at Roland Garros, five at the U.S. Open and four at the Australian Open.

Roger's halfway there, already owning five Wimbledon and U.S. Open titles each. One more Aussie and three more French will get him there.

An intruder ran onto the court, Stopping French Open Finals

2009-06-07T09:56:00.000-07:00

An intruder ran onto the court during the second set of the men's final, waving a Barcelona soccer team flag stunned Roger Federer and the crowd at the French Open when he leapt onto the court and tried to place a red hat on Federer's head during the men's final on Sunday.

Federer pushed the intruder aside, and the man then danced in front of him waving a Barcelona soccer team flag.

He was carried off the court by three security guards. Police later said he was jailed for questioning and could be charged with illegally entering a sports stadium. Police said the man claimed to be a fan of Federer.

Intruders have interrupted Grand Slam finals before, at Roland Garros and elsewhere, but what made this episode scarier was the man went right up to Federer and touched him.

After the man was taken away, a security guard approached Federer to check if he was OK. The Swiss player smiled and nodded. A moment later, Federer turned to look up at his wife in the stands and then adjusted his headband.

French Open : Finals

2009-06-07T08:07:00.000-07:00

Roger Federer became only the sixth man to achieve the career Grand Slam. Federer joins Fred Perry, Don Budge, Roy Emerson, Rod Laver and Andre Agassi as the only men to have won all four Grand Slam titles and equalled Pete Sampras’ record of 14 majors by defeating Robin Soderling in straight sets in Sunday’s men’s final. Relive every game of this historic match right here.

Roger Federer became only the sixth man to achieve the career Grand Slam and equalled Pete Sampras’ record of 14 majors by defeating Robin Soderling in straight sets in Sunday’s men’s final. Relive every game of this historic match right here. He wrapped up a 6-1 7-6 (7-1) 6-4 victory in one hour and 55 minutes.

He looked a picture of calm from the moment he set foot on Court Phillipe Chatrier and, cheered on by large sections of the crowd, made a blistering start.

An understandably nervous-looking Soderling, contesting his first Grand Slam final, went wide once and long twice before double-faulting to give his opponent an effortless break of serve in game one.

Federer backed that up with a majestic service game, which he held to love with one booming ace and the most delightful sliced backhand which died as soon as it touched the red dirt.

"It might be the greatest victory of my career," said the 27-year-old.

"It takes away so much pressure. Now, I can play in peace for the rest of my career.

"Nobody will never tell me again that I have not won Roland Garros. It's nice to be up here on the podium as a winner this time.

"I would like to congratulate you Robin on an incredible tournament, you beat so many wonderful players on the way.

"It's always hard to lose in the final but it's an incredible surprise.

"I hope you can keep it up for many years to come. All the best and congratulations."

Federer joins the elite group of Fred Perry, Don Budge, Rod Laver, Roy Emerson and Andre Agassi as the only men to clinch all four major titles.

A tearful Federer was touched by the presence of Agassi.

"Of course I'd like to thank Andre for being here. It means the world to me.

"We've had some great matches over the years. For you to be here, the last man to win all four grand slams... now I know what it really feels like.

"You're a hell of a guy and I wish you all the best for your private life. It's a pity you're not playing any more but I don't miss you."

Soderling was thrilled just to have reached the final and found time to issue a light-hearted warning to his rival after his defeat.

He said: "You know you beat me nine times in a row before this match, we were joking nobody can beat me 10 times in a row. We were wrong. But next time we play... nobody can beat me 11 times in a row, I promise you!"

Svetlana Kuznetsova’s five-year wait for a second Grand Slam title is over. The Russian won the 2009 French Open title, emerging victorious 6-4 6-2 after her opponent – No1 seed Dinara Safina – was paralysed with nerves throughout the 75-minute contest.

The match that pitted the best two clay-courters from 2009 deserved to be a closely fought affair. Kuznetsova had won 15 of her 17 matches on red brick this season, while Safina’s record was even more impressive: 20 victories and only one defeat. That loss came in the final in Stuttgart against none other than Kuznetsova, but the world No1 took only six days to get her revenge, defeating her friend from St Petersburg in straight sets in the final of the more prestigious Rome tournament. The two had previously lost in the final here (Kuznetsova to Justine Henin in her 2006 pomp, Safina to Ivanovic last year) and were eager to go one better.

Nadal Out Of Queen's Event

2009-06-05T10:19:00.000-07:00

The world number one, and reigning Wimbledon champion, has been advised to rest by doctors.

"I've been having problems in the past months with my knees, that's no secret," said the Spaniard. "I need to recover and get ready for Wimbledon."

"I am very disappointed to not be able to come this year to Queen's, defend the title I won last year and enjoy playing there in front of the very knowledgeable British crowds," he said.

"I am very disappointed to not be able to come this year to Queen's, defend the title I won last year and enjoy playing there in front of the very knowledgeable British crowds," he said.

AEGON CHAMPIONSHIPS, QUEEN'S CLUB

Monday 8 June
1230-2000, BBC Red Button/online
1330-1715, BBC Two/online

Tuesday 9 June
1230-2000, BBC Red Button/online
1330-1715, BBC Two/online

Wednesday 10 June
1230-2000, BBC Red Button/online
1400-1715, BBC Two/online

Thursday 11 June
1230-2000, BBC Red Button/online
1330-1715, BBC Two/online

Friday 12 June
1230-2000, BBC Red Button/online
1330-1715, BBC Two/online

Saturday 13 June
1300-1630, BBC One/online
1630-1730, BBC Two/online

Sunday 14 June
1400-1630, BBC Two/online
1630-1900, BBC Red Button/online

French Open: Day 13 Update

2009-06-05T08:52:00.000-07:00

Surprising Swede Robin Soderling holds off Fernando Gonzalez to reach French Open finals, in a five-set thriller. The 12th seed looked favourite to win at 4-1 up in the final set, but Soderling regained his composure to reel off five games in a row. The Swede, seeded 23, began well and comfortably took the first two sets, but the Chilean edged a thrilling third and battled back to steal the fourth.
"It's unbelievable," said Soderling. "I played well in the first two sets. Then he started to play incredibly well.

"I was down a break in the final set but I said to myself that I have nothing to lose. I started to return great and everything changed.

"I still have far to go with the most difficult match, maybe against Federer, to come on Sunday."

Gonzalez, in only his second Grand Slam semi-final, seemed to lose his cool in the fifth game with an increasing number of errors, but he hung in there with the second set progressing with serve.

I never felt comfortable," said Gonzalez. "I couldn't hit clearly and it was tough.

"I served at 4-3 in the final set and I knew I had the match in my hands. I wanted to win it on my first serves, not second, but he made some great returns.

"If he keeps serving at over 200kph and finding the lines, it'll be tough for whoever he faces in the final."

French Open: Day 11 & 12 Update

2009-06-05T08:29:00.000-07:00

Day 11: Sam Stosur, Roger Federer and Juan Mrtin Del Potro cruised into the semi-finals in straight sets while Svetlana Kuznetsova was made to fight all the way against Serena Williams before she booked her spot.

Day 12: Russian women's final after Dinara Safina defeated Dominika Cibulkova in straight sets and Svetlana Kuznetsova battled past Sam Stosur in three. And Liezel Huber and Bob Bryan are mixed doubles champions.

French Open: Day 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10 Update

2009-06-02T20:42:00.000-07:00

Day:6 Venus Williams is out, convincingly beaten in straight sets by Agnes Szavay, while Nadal, Murray and Sharapova are all through to the fourth round.

Day:7 Novak Djokovic and Elena Dementieva were sent crashing out of the tournament, each in three sets, while Federer, Roddick, Serena and Jankovic all went through.

Day:8 Reigning champions Rafael Nadal and Ana Ivanovic have both been defeated on a historic day at Roland Garros.

Day:9 Williams, Kuznetsova, Del Potro, Stosur and Robredo are through, Roger Federer came back from two down to best Tommy Haas in a five-set thriller, Romanian teenager Sorana Cirstea ousted No5 seed Jelena Jankovic and local hero Gael Monfils defeated Andy Roddick in straight sets.

Day:10 The first day of the quarter-finals saw victories in straight sets for Cibulkova and Soderling, while Gonzalez and Safina were made to work harder for their semi-final berth.

French Open: Day 5 Update

2009-05-28T20:23:00.000-07:00

Roger Federer, the Williams sisters, Jankovic, Tsonga, Kuznetsova, Monfils, Roddick and Dementieva are some of the big names who made it through to the third round today.

Roger Federer found himself in a much tighter and tougher match than he would have expected or is used to in the French Open's second round Thursday before producing a 7-6 (8), 5-7, 7-6 (2), 6-2 victory over Jose Acasuso of Argentina.

Federer, whose season hasn't been up to his high standards, was up to the task each time, though. "Mentally, I've always been very strong, but I'm not being put in a position like this very often, you know," Federer said. Then, moments later, as if to make sure everyone understood him, Federer added: "Coming through such a match is always a great feeling. Like I said, I'm not part of such close matches that often."

Federer, in contrast, offered this assessment of his performance: "I was not managing and controlling the match the way I should have."

Yet there he was, taking a 6-3 lead in the first-set tiebreaker. Federer erased the first two set points with aces before Acasuso pulled a forehand wide. Then, ahead 7-6, Acasuso shanked a shot to waste No. 4, and Federer eventually claimed that set.

Charismatic Jo-Wilfried Tsonga gave the partisan crowd something to chant, as the electric Frenchmen with the can't-miss-smile stormed back in a fourth set tiebreaker and advanced to the third round over Argentine Juan Monaco, 7-5, 2-6, 6-1, 7-6 (8).

Excitement was at a fever pitch in the deciding moments of the fourth set as Tsonga, trailing 5-1 in the tiebreak, bravely stormed back to even the score at 5-5. "Tsonga! Tsonga!" chants reverberated throughout the rafters at Court Suzanne Lenglen, and as hard as Monaco tried to stem the tide, he finally wilted on Tsonga's third match point.

Tsonga, who had never won at Roland Garros until the first round this year, will face Belgian Christophe Rochus next in the third round.

Gael Monfils, a semifinalist in last year's French Open, invigorated the French crowds even more, as he was an easy straight set winner over Victor Crivoi, 6-4, 6-3, 6-3.

The second round match between fourth-seeded Novak Djokovic and Sergiy Stakhovsky was suspended on Thursday due to bad light after 90 minutes of play.Novak is two sets in front, 6-3 6-4.

Venus Williams fought back from a set down and then saved a match point against unheralded Lucie Safarova in her French Open second round match today. The No3 seed, who eventually prevailed 6-7, 6-2, 7-5, will now face 29th seed Agnes Szavay.

Jelena Dokic left the court in floods of tears on Thursday after retiring with a back injury while leading by a set in her French Open second round match against Russian fourth seed Elena Dementieva."It's a shock and a disappointment," the Australian former world number four told a news conference after quitting with the score at 6-2 3-4 against.

"I felt like I had the match in my hands and I was doing well and even if I didn't win, I was playing really well. I felt like I probably played the best tennis that I played this year."

It was a much simpler affair for fifth seed Jelena Jankovic, who reached the third round with a 6-1 6-2 win over Magdalena Rybarikova, and Russian seventh seed Svetlana Kuznetsova, who took less than 50 minutes in a 6-0 6-2 win over Galina Voskoboeva.

French Open: Day 4 Update

2009-05-27T23:38:00.001-07:00

The most spectacular moment of Andy Murray’s second-round win at Roland Garros came when he attempted to chase down one of Potito Starace’s devilishly good drop-shots, lost his footing and ended up inadvertently performing a forward-roll across Court Philippe Chatrier. A giant red smear of clay appeared on the back of his black shirt. There was also a stage when it appeared as though the red clay was going to be smeared over Murray’s French Open ambitions, as he was twice a point away from going two sets to one down.

In the end, Murray went through, but not before he had had that tumble on the clay, been bamboozled by those well-disguised drop-shots, and had lost his way in the second set and for the first half of the third set. If Murray’s tennis was decidedly average for a long period, his four-set, 6-3, 2-6, 7-5, 6-4 victory was anything but ordinary.

“The most important thing is that I found a way to win,” said Murray, but he will need to play a tighter match if he is to have control of events against Tipsarevic, who yesterday put out Spain’s Feliciano Lopez. Murray and Tipsarevic, the world No65, have played four times previously, but this will be their first match on clay.

Sharapova had been away from the slams for so long, because of a shoulder injury, it had almost been forgotten how she likes to mark important victories by blowing kisses at the spectators and down a television lens.

It would not have been that surprising if Sharapova, who played this tournament last year as the world No 1, but who is now ranked 102, had lost to Petrova. But Sharapova's greatest quality has always been her will to win, and that mental fortitude gave her the edge in the decider; she won 6-2, 1-6, 8-6.

In reaching the last 32, Dinara Safina has dropped just two games, as she followed up her 6-0, 6-0 win over Britain's Anne Keothavong by beating Russia's Vitalia Diatchenko 6-1, 6-1. Safina, the Russian world No 1, led 5-0 in the first set, having won her first 17 games of the tournament. Safina, the runner-up last year to Ana Ivanovic, has won her last two clay-court tournaments, in Rome and Madrid, and is in the best form of her tennis life.

Defending champion Ana Ivanovic swept into the French Open last 32 with a comprehensive 6-1, 6-2 victory over Thai veteran Tamarine Tanasugarn. The 21-year-old Serbian has experienced a disappointing 12 months since lifting her first major title at Roland Garros last summer, but she looked in tip-top condition as she engineered her passage into the third round.

Big man Marat Safin crashed out in 2nd round against unseeded Josselin Quanna 7-6(2) 7-6(4) 4-6 3-6 10-8. Marat was leading 2-0 but Qunanna died for each volley and made 2-2, and wins against Marat.

Fernando Verdasco made short work of Philipp Petzschner out on Court 2. The eighth seed is looking in fine fettle and hardly broke a sweat in a 6-1 6-2 6-3 win.

Rafael Nadal's French Open winning streak reached a record 30 consecutive matches Wednesday. Nadal already had bettered Bjorn Borg's men's mark of 28 straight victories at the clay-court Grand Slam tournament; now the Spaniard topped Chris Evert's overall record of 29, too.

Trying to become the first player with five championships in a row at Roland Garros, Nadal moved into the third round by beating 72nd-ranked Teimuraz Gabashvili of Russia 6-1, 6-4, 6-2.

French Open: Day 3 Update

2009-05-27T20:36:00.000-07:00

Serbian fifth seed Jelena Jankovic has progressed to the second round of the French Open, beating Czech Petra Cetkovska, 6-2, 6-3. Jankovic, who reached the semi-finals at Roland Garros last year, will next face either Slovak Magdalena Rybarikova or Kristina Mladenovic of France for a place in the third round.

Svetlana Kuznetsova beat French wildcard Claire Feuerstein, 6-1, 6-4, to go through. The Russian seventh seed, runner-up here in 2006, had already broken twice to race to a 5-1 lead before rain interrupted play. Kuznetsova, whose passing shots left her opponent often rooted to the spot, broke again the seventh and eventually sealed victory on her third matchpoint with a powerful forehand that was too good for Feuerstein.

The world No 2 Serena Williams needed celebrated at Roland Garros on Tuesday, jumping up and down on the red clay of Court Suzanne Lenglen, nine match points to complete the win, and it was played in cold and windy conditions that had the former champion picking the clay out of her eyes. With all that to think about, you can understand why Williams marked her 6-3, 6-7, 6-4 win with more than a small smile.

Men's fourth seed Novak Djokovic reached the second round when his opponent, Ecuadorian Nicolas Lapentti, retired because of injury with the Serb leading 6-3, 3-1.

French Open: Day 2 update

2009-05-25T20:27:00.000-07:00

The sun sets over the Suzanne Lenglen court at the French Open on May 25, 2009 in Paris, France. Safina, Venus Williams, Nadal, Federer and Sharapova all went through.

Dinara Safina, 2008 runner-up who is bidding to win her maiden Grand Slam title, will now face fellow-Russiant Vitalia Diatchenko for a place in the last 32 after her 6-0 6-0 whitewash.World number 48 Keothavong became the first British woman in 26 years to reach the semifinals of a WTA clay-court event in Warsaw last week.

Third seed Venus Williams, who has never won in Paris, is also through to the second round, but the Wimbledon champion looked far from impressive in desposing of fellow-American Bethanie Mattek-Sands 6-1 4-6 6-2.

Meanwhile, Maria Sharapova made a winning return to Grand Slam tennis when she came from behind to beat Belarus' Anastasiya Yakimova 3-6 6-1 6-2.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal saw off a spirited challenge from Brazil's Marcos Daniel to reach round two of the French Open with a 7-5 6-4 6-3 win.

Daniel matched Nadal stride for stride before the world number one broke at 5-5 and served out the first set. “I wasn't at my best level but it's been like that for the last four years (in the first round) and I've won in three sets, so that's a positive” Rafael said.

Nadal found it difficult to shake off his 97th-ranked opponent but edged the second set and eased through the third. Nadal, wearing a bright pink shirt, had been on the back foot for much of the first half of the match but at last he took the initiative and Daniel could not deal with the precision of the Spaniard's forehand.

Roger Federer was next on Court Philippe Chatrier and he eased past Spain's Albert Martin 6-4 6-3 6-2. "I didn't have much trouble on my service games," said the Swiss. "I mixed up my shots well to finish it off." Federer said.

Roger Federer feels he could beat reigning champion Rafael Nadal at this year's French Open in Paris, because despite winning the last four tournaments the Spaniard is "Nadal is only human."

The world number two is hoping this year will prove to be a turning point after suffering three consecutive final defeats to Nadal at Roland Garros.

"He's won four straight times here in Paris which shows how tough he is, but if you play him the right way there will be chances, he is only human and we wait for that moment when he is not at his best; hopefully that will be this year," the Swiss said.

Federer's win is another positive result to add to the good form that saw him complete his first victory over Nadal in almost two years when taking the Madrid Open title.

"I feel good, that's most important, I'm confident and feel like I can beat the best and win again.

Sixth seed Andy Roddick won a match at the French Open for the first time since 2005, serving impressively as he swept past France's Romain Jouan 6-2 6-4 6-2.

French Open: Day 1 Update

2009-05-24T10:21:00.000-07:00

This is the 79th French Open, which will bring you the ultimate, the zenith of clay-court tennis. First match was between defending champion Ana Ivanovic and the unfeasibly blue-eyed Sara Errani from Italy. Ana Ivanovic's campaign to defend her title began with a stutter, but ended with a bang in a 7-6 (3), 6-3 victory over Sara Errani in the tournament's opening match on Court Philip Chatrier.

Lleyton Hewitt survived 55-aces from Croatian Ivo Karlovic to reach the French Open second round last night with a 6-7 (1-7) 6-7 (4-7) 7-6 (7-4) 6-4 6-3 win. Hewitt, now ranked 50 and who underwent hip surgery in August last year, will face Andrey Golubev of Kazakhstan, for a place in the third round where four-time champion Rafael Nadal would be a likely opponent.

Once Hewitt had levelled the tie at two sets apiece, Karlovic needed treatment for dehydration and Hewitt seized his opportunity, breaking to lead 2-1. He claimed the tie after almost four hours.

Verdasco is through in straight sets against Florent Seera. He’s such a good player, particularly on clay. And he always seems to be in Rafa’s quarter of the draw. David Ferrer’s three-set 6-2, 6-4 and 6-4. win over Portugal’s Federico Gil.

Nadal Handed Tough Path To Fifth Roland Garros Title

2009-05-23T19:55:00.000-07:00

World number one Rafael Nadal faces a potentially treacherous task in his bid to win a fifth consecutive French Open title. The top seed, unbeaten at Roland Garros since his debut in 2005, is in the same half of the draw as Briton Andy Murray and Spanish eighth seed Fernando Verdasco who gave him a rough time in the Australian Open semi-finals.

Hewitt, battling back from hip surgery last year, and now ranked at 50 in the world, first faces 26th seed Ivo Karlovic, the giant Croatian who shocked him at Wimbledon in 2003. Claycourt specialist David Ferrer, twice a quarter-finalist, is a possible fourth round opponent with Verdasco a likely last eight rival.

Swiss second seed Roger Federer, chasing the only grand slam title to have eluded him, faces Spaniard Alberto Martin en route to a possible fourth consecutive final with Nadal, whom he beat in the Madrid Masters final earlier this month.

Federer has a possible quarter-final encounter against American sixth seed Andy Roddick, beaten in Madrid in their only claycourt meeting in 20 duels.

One of the highlights of Federer's campaign could be a semi-final with world number four Novak Djokovic of Serbia who, following a first-round match against Ecuador's Nicolas Lapentti, is looking at a quarter-final clash with Argentine Juan Martin del Potro.

Federer Gets Tips From Sampras To Regain Wimbledon Title

2009-05-22T01:40:00.001-07:00

Tennis great Pete Sampras tipped Roger Federer Thursday to regain his Wimbledon crown from Rafael Nadal, who will be carrying extra pressure as defending champion. The American, who won Wimbledon seven times, said he sensed Federer was hungry for another title.

"It will be interesting for Rafa to come back as defending champion as before he was always just a contender, so there will be a bit more pressure on him this year," he said as he launched the Venetian Macau Showdown on Thursday. "In last year's final Roger and Rafa really transcended the sport. It's also a good opportunity for players like Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic to come through. "If I was to put money on it I would say Roger, but he's not a shoo-in."

If Federer does win Wimbledon he could equal or even beat Sampras' record 14 Grand Slam titles. The Swiss superstar currently has 13 and has a chance to make it 14 at next week's French Open, although clay is not his best surface.

Sampras will play an exhibition in Macau in October against old rival Agassi.

Roland Garros(Frech Open) begins May 24th in Paris

2009-05-21T01:40:00.000-07:00

The Roland Garros Tournament , known throughout the world as the French Open, is underway. The warm ups and qualifiers play begins already. Officially from May 24 to June 7 tournament will be held in Paris, France.

Spanish tennis star Rafael Nadal traveled on Wednesday to Paris with his sights set on a record fifth consecutive French Open title, saying he hopes he can play at his “best level”. The 22-year-old Nadal, who has never lost a match at tennis’ clay-court Grand Slam event, will play Roland Garros – which gets under way on May 24 – for the first time as world No. 1.

“If I play at my best level, I’m confident I’ll have a good result in Paris, and if that doesn’t happen, I have to take it in stride because I’ve having a really good year,” Nadal, the winner of five titles so far this season, said.

Nadal’s uncle and coach, Toni Nadal, said that just as in past years “Roland Garros will be a very difficult (challenge) and we’ll see what happens, although he’s coming in strong with good results throughout the year. There’s no additional pressure; it’s always the same. It’s clear that doubts (about Nadal’s clay-court dominance) may be raised after the win in Madrid by (Roger) Federer, who played a good match,”

“(Federer), (world No. 4 Novak) Djokovic, (world No. 3 Andy) Murray and a handful of other players can beat us and we’re aware that that can happen,” Toni Nadal said.

Will Madrid be turning point for Federer?

2009-05-21T01:32:00.000-07:00

Roger Federer finally got some wind behind his sails and floated free of the shoals of self-doubt and a self-protective embrace of disappointment. We all know just how much that Roland Garros title means in the big picture; the French Open championship match could have a more profound impact on tennis history than any other major final. Federer has introduced a big question mark in the Roland Garros narrative, and revived the idea that he may yet win the clay-court major. If Federer wins at Roland Garros -- whether his final-round victim is Nadal or someone else -- Madrid will stand as the turning point.

The plot certainly thickened. Nadal not only enters Roland Garros on a losing streak but he also came within a point of losing to Novak Djokovic. Nevertheless, surely Federer and, to a lesser extent, Djokovic picked up considerable momentum. Who nad thought Federer's first title of 2009 would come against Nadal on clay. Novak is Nadal's half, who gave tough competition, 3 sets took almost 4 hours. Never mind Nadal's contention that the surface bears little resemblance to Paris. We're talking about one sloppy match here.

Nadal still remains the clear favorite to win still another French Open, but we should be more inclined to bet the field (the other 127 entrants). Players at least have some material evidence that he's vulnerable.

Wimbledon's Centre Court Gets New Look With Retractable Roof

2009-05-18T10:16:00.000-07:00

Wimbledon, home to the world's most prestigious tennis tournament, shows off its new look Sunday with the debut of its retractable roof, the centerpiece of "A Centre Court Celebration." Past Wimbledon champions — and married couple — Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf played in an all-star exhibtion, along with Tim Henman and Kim Clijsters. The husband-and-wife team lost out to their opponents but clearly enjoyed every moment of being on the court, exchanging a kiss as the end of the match.

All four players gave the enclosed environment their approval. "They were the most fantastic playing conditions. There was no moisture on the court at all," Henman said, allaying Wimbledon's fear that condensation would be a major problem once the roof was closed and the costly investment in an air-management system would prove to have been a waste of money. "It's a lot warmer than it was but there's no excuses with the condition of the court."

So what about the roof from the spectator's point of view? Traditionally, the east-west swivel, eyes fixed on the trajectory of the ball, causes Wimbledon neck. On this particular day, though, it was the north-south movement that did the damage with glances cast upwards with the regularity of a group of tourists shepherded into the Sistine Chapel.

Federer Finds Hope As He Hands Rafael A Defeat On Clay

2009-05-17T11:04:00.000-07:00

Roger Federer defeat his great rival Rafael Nadal on Sunday when he stunned the world number one 6-4, 6-4 in the Madrid Open final to win his first title of the season.

Nadal was bidding to become the first man to win all three clay court Masters events in one year after his victories in Monte Carlo and Rome but slipped to only his fifth loss on his favoured surface in 155 matches since 2005.

Federer has lost to Nadal in the final of the French Open the past three years and his victory on Sunday will boost the Swiss world number two's hopes he can win a 14th grand slam singles title at Roland Garros starting later this month.

Federer had to fend off break points in the second and sixth games of the first set but then grabbed a crucial break in game nine before serving out the set to love.

A delicate drop shot that even the athletic Spaniard could not chase down gave him another opportunity in the fifth game of the second set and Nadal netted a backhand to fall 3-2 behind.

The Swiss slipped to 15-40 when serving for the match but fought back to deuce and powered an ace down the middle on his second championship point before raising his arms in triumph.

"I thought I took all the right decisions today and in the end it looked pretty comfortable so it was a perfect win for me, I'm very, very happy that I stayed positive and I got the win I needed badly because I've had some rather bad losses this year," he added. "It's very satisfying." Federer told a news conference.

This was Federer's first title of the year, his 58th in all, and his 15th Masters, putting him level again with Nadal.

Madrid Open: Nadal and Federer meet again to decide Madrid Crown

2009-05-16T20:35:00.000-07:00

Novak Djokovic was left searching for answers after this toughest loss to Rafael Nadal. Nadal saved three match points to complete a 3-6, 7-6(5), 7-6(9) comeback win over Djokovic to reach the Madrid Open final on Saturday.

“I had problems in the first set and some of the second. It was difficult for me to play at 100 percent. I had trouble pushing off,” said the top seed need his right leg to be heavily strapped just above the knee in the second set.

“In some points of the match I played even above my limits. And that was especially in the match points I had,” a red-eyed Djokovic said the four hour, three minute match. “It’s frustrating when you played so well and you can’t win. A couple of points decided the winner. So I’m very disappointer that I can play this well and still not win a match. The positives are I’m one point away from the victory.”

Djokovic showed he meant business after his recent losses to Nadal, earning the first break of the match in the second game off a double-fault. The Serbian third seed kept up the attack on the world number one, reaching 4-1 on his way to the early lead.

Federer smooth win 6-3, 6-4 over Argentine Juan Martin Del Potro, which finished in less time than one of Nadal and Djokovic match set.

Nadal stands a formidable 13-6 over Federer, winning five of their last six meetings including the Grand Slam finals in Paris, Wimbledon and Melbourne.

“Playing Nadal anywhere is a challenge, especially on clay. The extra factor here is that this is in Spain,” said the Swiss.

Madrid Open: Nadal to face Djokovic, Murray crashes out

2009-05-16T20:16:00.000-07:00

Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic will meet for the third time at Madrid Open on Saturday. World number one Nadal surprisingly trailed 0-4 in the second set against Spanish rival Fernando Verdasco, the seventh seed, but king of clay stormed back for a 6-4, 7-5 win in a shade under 2 hours.

Third seed Djokovic, fighting to claw back his number 3 ranking from Scot Andy Murray, will face Nadal. The Serbian reached his fourth consecutive Masters semi-final with a 6-4,6-4 win over Croatian wild card Ivan Ljubicic.

“I thought at the moment (when he trailed 0-4) that I had to plat a bit better and get more confidence for a possible third set,” said Nadal. “I played really bad at that moment.” Nadal said he was happy to have avoided a third set.

Del Potro, who had lost all three of his previous meetings with Murray, came back from 2-5 in the first set to claim victory on a fourth match point in the ninth game of the second. Murray’s hope of celebrating his 22nd birthday with a victory were dashed by fifth seed Juan Martin Del Potro who beat Andy 7-6(7/4), 6-3 in a late-night match.

Madrid Open: Federer and Djokovic reaches semifinal

2009-05-15T11:18:00.001-07:00

Roger Federer dominance over Andy Roddick continued at Madrid Open 7-5, 6-7(5/7), 6-1. It was their first meeting on clay. Roger improved his record to 18-2 against sixth-ranked Roddick. Roddick saved three match points before sending return long on a Federer second serve to hand victory to Swiss star. Roger will face either Andy Murry or Juan Martin Del Porto in semi-finals.

Federer mixed up his game very beautifully in the first set before leading 1-0 with a drop shot. Roddick broke in the second game with 2-0 before Roger broke back and held for 2-2. ‘I thought it was a good match’, said Federer.

Ljubicic was unable to continue that form today though as he clumped to a 6-4, 6-4 defeat against third seed Djokovic.

Madrid Open: Federer and Djokovic reaches semifinal

2009-05-15T11:18:00.000-07:00

Madrid Open: Federer in Quarters, Nadal gets walkover

2009-05-14T21:58:00.001-07:00

World number 1 Rafael Nadal got an easy walkover against Philipp Kohlschreiber was forced out of left leg injury. While No.2 Roger Federer scored 6-2 and 6-4 win over James Blake and moved to quarters of the Madrid open tennis tournament.Also in last eight were Andy Murry, won against Tommy Robredo 7-5, 6-1, and Novak Djokovic, who advanced with a 6-4, 6-4 over Andreas Seppi. And sixth seeded Andy Roddick also got walkover against Nikolay Davydenko withdrew because of left leg injury. Fernando Verdasco defeated Juan Monaco of Argentina 7-5, 6-2. Ivan Ljubicic won against Gilles Simon 3-6, 6-4, 6-3. Weather and injury is dominating Madrid Open.“A lot of tennis in the body is sometimes not the best thing but unfortunately in tennis, it happens that we have injuries,” said the Swiss, who next faces Roddick.

Roger Federer Smashes Racket

2009-05-12T20:54:00.000-07:00

Battling a long slump, Federer angrily broke his racket on Friday en route to a 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 loss to Novak Djokovic in the semifinals at the Sony Ericsson Open.

Federer fell behind 2-love in the third set, and when he netted an easy forehand to start the next game, he slammed his racket to the concrete, mangling it. The outburst was a shock coming from Federer, winner of the tour's sportsmanship award the past five years.

"I was just frustrated," a red-eyed Federer said shortly after the match. "Didn't feel great. It's just a natural thing I did."

Federer was betrayed by his forehand, long touted as the game's best. It was the biggest culprit during the match's pivotal stretch bridging the second and third sets, when he lost 24 of 28 points and seven consecutive games.

Federer shanked at least half a dozen forehands and blamed the breeze, a staple at Key Biscayne.

Federer has endured wrenching defeats in recent Grand Slams, including a loss in February at the Australian Open that left him sobbing. But he has also struggled in Masters events, the ATP Tour's most prestigious tournaments aside from the majors.

Federer, who hasn't won any title since October, now heads to Europe to play on clay, his least-favourite surface. Or maybe it's now hard court.

"I haven't been winning 20 tournaments in a row, so nobody expects me to win really," Federer said. "It has been a tough last year or so, especially on the hard courts. My game never really clicked. Thank God the hard-court season is over."