#if he makes it past him it's zverev

[bluespring864]

Shanghai draws are out and I am once again asking why the tennis gods hate andy murray

[mousemannation]

serious post time. concerning some thoughts ive had about zverev at LC. nothing too heavy but under the cut in case u just wanna scroll past.

i was talking to my mum about this and i think most of tennisblr share the same sentiment towards him so im not gonna be saying anything too radical. Its also not going to be super concise because im mostly spitballing here.

I was just thinking about how we talk about him and how we as a community navigate his presence on tour. I know that there's a vindictive joy that comes with seeing him lose that's especially potent since he basically got away with domestic violence scot free.

Seeing him lose is a good feeling because he clearly cares a lot and it feels like winning that he's upset, but it also doesn't actually mean anything in the scope of things. Obviously on some level if he lost enough he would no longer be relevant but it's inescapable that he is, unfortunately, very good at tennis. He's number 2 in the world. Call him a choker all you want, he's still vastly more successful that 99.9% of all tennis players.

But it's also just sport- a game. It's not the outcome of the match that amounts to anything outside of a very small community of people; its the celebrity, the money and clout and hero worship. The fact of the matter is it doesn't make a difference to the women he abused if he wins a match because he still abused them and he is still famous. He will always have been famous, even if he retires tomorrow. They will still interview him, laud him in press, put him in ads.

I just sometimes think- what right do I have to feel vindicated by his losses? To weigh his literal actual crimes against the outcome of some silly ball game? In a perfect world he would not be playing, he would be banned by the ITF and shunned publicly by his fellow players. He would not be invited to Laver Cup.

I won't say I don't look at tournament draws and hope for his early loss, but at least at tour events that means an early exit. I can't find it in myself to care if he wins or loses at Laver Cup, not really. Because he will still be there, he is still part of the team, he is still on the bench. It doesn't matter if he wins because he's still an abuser people paid thousands of dollars to watch play a game.

[fritzes]

time for the olympics! this draw is already very cursed but here are my thoughts:

wta:

in the first quarter, we obviously have the heavy favorite to win this in iga. her projected quarterfinal opponent is danielle, but I don't think she can challenge iga on clay. that being said, two of iga's usual nemeses are in her quarter: noskova and, of course, ostapenko. however, this is basically just roland garros part 2 and it takes the match of someone's life and then some to beat iga, and even then that might not be enough. to beat her here would be an insane achievement and I'd be forever impressed with any player if they did it

the second quarter doesn't have a top four seed because of elena's late withdrawl, so this is really open. the highest seed is qinwen who is coming off of a clay title. caroline garcia has home court advantage. naomi did play the aforementioned match of her life against iga at roland garros and came so close to winning it, so if she can carry that here she can absolutely make a deep run. leylah, emma navarro, and karolina muchova are also in this quarter and could definitely be dark horses to make a deep run. this is definitely the least predictable quarter and could potentially have some really good matches

the third quarter is really stacked. jasmine is the top seed, and she absolutely proved herself at roland garros and could really be a force here. the projected quarterfinalist is jess, who has had a really up and down season and has kind of lost all her consistency. she could absolutely make a deep run, but she could also very easily lose to elina in the second round. krejcikova, fresh off of her wimbledon win, is also in this quarter and we could see a rematch of the wimbledon final. the change to clay could honestly favor both of them, and that's a rematch that would be interesting to see. there is also a potential rg semifinal rematch between jasmine and mirra in the second round

and finally, coco has what seems to me a very clear path to the semis. her first round opponent is ajla, and clay is her worst surface by a lot. maria sakkari is the projected quarterfinalist, but I've really lost all faith in maria at big tournaments, everything kind of fell apart after miami. I think a likely quarterfinalist is kostyuk, who has given coco a lot of trouble in the past. that being said, I think coco is really locked in for this. also, kostyuk is very erratic and could potentially lose early to putintseva or siniakova. it's coco's quarter to lose.

interesting r1 matches: ostapenko/osorio, garcia/cristian, osaka/kerber, muchova/fernandez, putintseva/kostyuk, andreescu/tauson

atp:

well. this top quarter sure is something! we don't even know if rafa is actually playing singles, but if he does, we could have a rafa/novak match in the second round. which is insane. I don't think rafa has any chance of winning, but still. this draw shouldn't be too hard for novak. the seeds in his quarter just aren't people who can really challenge him, and I highly doubt the projected quarterfinalist of tsitsipas could beat him right now

the second quarter, aka taylor's wimbledon draw in reverse. there's the potential for a rematch with musetti in the fourth round, which could be interesting. musetti has been a problem for him all year, and the wimbledon qf will definitely be lingering in taylor's head. whoever wins that (if it happens) unfortunately probably has to play zverev, although I could see him potentially losing to jarry. I'm not really certain in any prediction about this quarter (mostly because I'm way to biased towards taylor) so we'll see how it goes

this third quarter is the one I'm the most excited for, because the idea of a casper/daniil clay olympics quarterfinal is just so fun. based on the rest of the players in this draw, they should both be able to get there unless felix randomly decides to peak. if that match did happen, casper would of course be the favorite but you never know when clayvedev will emerge (we all remember rome...)

much like the wta draw, this last quarter seems straightforward for the second seed. carlos is in incredible form right now, and it's hard to see anyone in this quarter challenging him. his quarterfinal opponent could be adm or tommy paul; adm has never beaten him and he just beat tommy paul at wimbledon. like I said with the wta fourth quarter, this is his quarter to lose

interesting r1 matches: arnaldi/fils, machac/zhang, musetti/monfils, bublik/fritz, auger-aliassime/giron, de minaur/struff

[zingaplanet]

One of the most fascinating things about the Fedal relationship is how the other players react to it. It is now standard to expect that if there's an event that has Roger and Rafa present, then everybody else knows to stand back and leave them be. The whispering, the giggling, the running off together, the gravitating towards each other no matter how far apart they are at any given moment, and the other players just sort of shrug their shoulders in resignation. I do wonder if they gossip about "Fedal" behind locker room doors, if they're wistful or even jealous about it. What do you think?

Hahaha you're def right! I'm not a big follower of the rest of the tennis scene but over the years people have talked about both of them if I remember correctly.

The sweetest one recently was Andy Murray in that laver cup press conference saying that the way Roger gets to retire feels right, specifically because Rafa is there alongside and not opposite him after everything they've shared together (oh muzz 🥺).

I remember Zverev and Thiem giving us an insight to the team Europe dynamics when they were there. They actually said they were really impressed with the way Roger and Rafa were so close with each other, the way Casper said they had a lot of "inside jokes", mostly because they've known each other for such a long time! But Fedal have been known to tell old stories of their matches to the team!! (I remember reading I think it was Sascha who said they were telling the kids stories about their Wimbledon 2008 match). Honestly, they're never living down that parental jokes.

Outside of Laver Cup I don't know much (I have to leave this to the fandom and let them do their archival digging magic 😉). But I'd say pretty much everyone around them kinda get this special dynamic they had, so much that Uncle Toni was at some point arguing with Rafa for a bit (when he was still actively coaching) as he was practically planning to sacrifice his schedule at the time for Roger who specifically asked him to play in the inaugural laver cup! Also remember that the spanish armada (Spain Davis Cup team), which is technically rafa's closest family on tour, used to tease him about "Rogelio" a lot haha I remember reading smth about Feli making fun of young puppy-eyed Rafa and his idolation of Rogi (how dare he!)

Anyhow, this was all stuffs from days long past (almost a decade ago) and I must admit I don't even remember half of the sources! But hey that's why we have tumblr right? Let me pass the baton here to other veteran Fedal followers! 🔥🙌

[footballffbarbiex]

heyyyy

i noticed you havent continued with the Sascha zverev imagine...

and i was wondering why

hi,

ngl there wasn't much interest at the time or since that update went up and i'm someone who thrives on interest for players etc in order to want to write them. he wasn't someone that people came to me for content for him or really reached out to say they wanted more.

i tend to write what sparks joy and what brings inspiration and for the past year or so it hasn't been him. plus the allegations that were presented haven't sat well and i'd rather focus on what makes me happy and that isn't writing him.

i dont really watch tennis so i can't say i'm an avid fan who needs to follow and keep up with it and so it doesn't seem appropriate or right to write for someone/something far down the priority list when i already have so many for this fandom which does need my attention.

[sacramentonewsjournal]

Karen Khachanov Displays On US Open Run Confidence & Turin Push | ATP Tour

Karen Khachanov was 21 years previous and ranked No. 48 on the planet when the 2018 season started. The primary indicators that he was carving a brand new trajectory got here early in Marseille, the place he defeated Tomas Berdych and Lucas Pouille – each High 20 gamers – on the way in which to his second profession title. Stellar outcomes adopted – he made the fourth spherical at each Roland Garros and Wimbledon and was a semi-finalist in Toronto. The massive leap got here within the fall, when he received the titles in Moscow and, virtually inexplicably, the regular-season finale in Paris. His final three victories got here towards No. 5-ranked Alexander Zverev, No. 8 Dominic Thiem and, within the remaining, No. 2 Novak Djokovic. Khachanov, the primary unseeded participant to win an ATP Masters 1000 since David Nalbandian 11 years earlier, received 46 matches that season, was the primary alternate on the year-end Nitto ATP Finals in London and completed the 12 months ranked No. 11. How on earth did that occur? “To be sincere with you,” Khachanov mentioned Saturday from the Astana Open, “I don’t know. Typically, issues occur that you simply can’t predict. I had an amazing run on the finish of 2018. As a result of with one outcome you may make it into the High 10.” And whereas Khachanov rose to a career-high No. 8 early the next 12 months, within the 4 seasons since that breakthrough – except a silver medal in singles on the Olympics performed in Tokyo a 12 months in the past – he has by no means regained these giddy heights. However there are indicators that when he performs American Maxime Cressy in a first-round match on the Kazakhstan Nationwide Tennis Centre you would possibly see him beginning to once more method that stage. In a 12 months that has seen him win 31 matches, his best moments got here in the newest occasion he performed, the US Open. His eighth journey to New York, together with qualifying, produced his finest outcome: a berth within the semi-finals, a career-best main effort. He defeated No. 15-ranked Pablo Carreno Busta within the fourth spherical (in 5 units) and No. 25 Nick Kyrgios within the quarter-finals, in one other match that went the space. After 5 consecutive victories, the run lastly ended towards Casper Ruud. “I used to be wishing, after all, to have a cherry on the pie and to carry the trophy,” Khachanov admitted. “The deeper you go, the extra you imagine that you are able to do it.” Khachanov has all the time had a formidable serve and a forehand to go together with it. On the US Open, he was utilizing them in a devastating one-two mixture. The arrogance that carried him so effectively 4 years in the past, appeared to return. “Confidence, clearly, is a really fascinating factor,” Khachanov mentioned. “It’s what issues most. You possibly can imagine in your self [going in] – that you are able to do it – however when you obtain the outcome, that’s the precise factor which you could really feel.” Khachanov needs to be feeling it in Kazakhstan; his rating moved up 13 spots after the New York fortnight, to No. 18. He’s scheduled to play right here, then Antwerp, Vienna and Paris. He’s at the moment seventeenth within the Pepperstone ATP Dwell Race To Turin, however a title at one among his remaining occasions may put him inside hanging distance. His historical past, he is aware of, suggests he’s able to a late run. “It’s nonetheless a great distance,” he mentioned. “And nonetheless a number of factors to be performed. It’s been an amazing run and I exploit it was a motivation for the following achievements. I believe it is a step ahead. “I believe step-by-step I’m enhancing and elevating my sport. And I believe I’m a greater participant immediately than I used to be [four years ago]. On the finish of the day, the outcomes, they don’t present that. However, hopefully, in the long term, it’ll present.” Originally published at Sacramento News Journal

[kyogos]

Predictions for the Australian Open, Go!

Oh god okay. I’m gonna go through the whole draw (well, the main seeds anyway) and see if I can actually be tactical about my predictions 🙈 This is going to be long I’m so sorry, I’ll stick it under a cut

Section 1

Djokovic - Obviously I don’t think he’s going to have an issue, especially has his R1 match is against a qualifier (And honestly, I don’t fancy any of their chances against Nole - Sorry Dan!). Tsonga could give him a good battle, although he is still coming back from injury. Honestly? I think Novak has it easy. 

Shapovalov - Again, a nice draw for him, no reason why he wouldn’t meet Novak R3. I don’t think he’ll beat him, but it could be a good watch.

Goffin - An outside chance if he finds his form again. David should easily make it to R3, maybe R4 if he can get one up on Medvedev. If he makes it past Daniil, I think Novak will make mincemeat out of him

Medvedev - Honestly, it could go either way. He’s a little inconsistent, and has never done well at a Grand Slam. He should make it to R3 no problem, but he could be an earlier shock.

Section 2

Fognini - He really found his form last year and he has a fairly decent Grand Slam record. He has honestly a nice draw, nothing super easy mind. Munar could be a tough match, but I don’t think he’ll pose too much of an issue for Fabio. Carreno Busta could cause issue R3 , but it should be one hell of a match

Carreno Busta - The first round qualifier could cause an upset here depending on how the draw goes. He has a good track record at the Australian Open, he could go far here, if he can build up momentum. Certainly has a chance against Fabio if they were to meet in the third round.

Kohlschreiber - Honestly? I think he could be one of the first seeds to fall. He doesn’t have a good GS record, and the Australian Open is not a good one for him at all. When he plays well, he plays blood well, but he’s inconsistent as hell. I’m not excepting miracles here

Nishikori - Kei is probably one of the favourites to go far. He’s been in beautiful form and has the momentum to carry on doing well. There’s no one in this section who should cause him any issues.

Section 3

Zverev (the younger) - Probably one of the hottest players right now, he should have no real problem. R2 could be a good match if he meets Chardy, but I think he has this in the bag. Although he has an awful Grand Slam record so who knows with Sascha

Simon - Again, could be an early seed to fall. He has bad days and can bomb matches. If he makes it to R2 and meets Sock, it could go either way. I’ll be shocked if he makes it past R3

Chung - One hell of a player, although post Australian Open last year, he largely dropped of my radar. He definitely has the potential to do well here, and could cause an upset or two if he can find his groove. Definitely one to watch.

Raonic - Again, someone I wouldn’t bet on. Too inconsistent, and generally one of the weaker players. He could be an early upset, especially considering he plays Kyrgios R1. That could be a beauty of match. He probably has one of the worst draws, R1 Kyrgios, R2 potentially Wawrinka, followed by either Herbert or Chung realistically..

** Not a seed, but Wawrinka is one to watch, he’s finding his groove again and could either bomb out in Round 1, or go on to challenge Sascha. There is no telling with Stan **

Section 4

Coric - Not the easiest draw, although nothing too challenging. He has the talent and ability to do well. He should easily make it past the first few matches, and I’d expect to see him reach round 4. Could cause an upset if he were to meet Thiem in round 4 though

Cecchinato - Even though he’s seeded, I don’t think he’s got any sort of expectation on him to do well. He could cause a bit of an upset but unlikely. He’s a clay court player, so AO really doesn’t play to his strengths.

Pouille - A solid player, but has never made it past R1 here. On paper, he has a nice draw and should easily make it to the 3rd round. But he’s inconsistent at best

Thiem - A strong contender, as a good history here. Although, he does play Paire in the first round which could either be a nightmare match, or a walk in the park. If he makes it past Benoit, then Domi could face the other Zverev (Mischa) and honestly? He has a bit of a tough draw. He could be an early upset, although less likely than some

Section 5 

Cilic - Probably an outside favourite. Should have no real trouble reaching the R4. He has a nice draw, no shocks or surprises expected here

Verdasco - A nice draw for Nando, no shocks, or surprises.Will probably lose to CIlic in R3, but he should make it to that stage easily.

Bautista Agut - This could be an early upset considering he plays Sir Muzza in the first round. Andy is probably the fan favourite, but currently I think Roberto has the better chance. He’s got momentum, he’s playing well. I don’t think he’ll go far, but he has potential

Khachanov - Another hot young player. He’s expected to do well, and honestly, he has no major matches lined up in the draw. His biggest match will be with Roberto or Andy in R3, and likely Cilic R4. The kid for sure has potential to cause an upset though (He did beat Novak after all)

Section 6

Tsitsipas - Honestly has one of the nicest draws, the potential for lots of qualifiers. He should easily make it to R4, where he’ll probably be sent packing my Roger, but stranger things have happened

Basilahvili - Again, another nice draw, lots of qualifiers. I’d edge Stefanos ahead of him in R3, but he should have no real issues getting that far.

Monfils - Gael either plays the best tennis I have ever seen, or it’s like he has never played before in his life. His first round match should be easy enough, R2 a bit more difficult if he does come head to head with Norrie (or even Fritz for that matter!). I think Gael has it in him to reach R3, not sure I’d like his chances against Roger though

Federer - Arguably another favourite for the title. A nice easy draw for him. Stefanos could be a struggle in R4, but no real competition building up to that. If he find his groove, my money is on him for the title

Section 7

Anderson - Kevin has no real challenges until R4 if we’re being realistic. Isner is probably his biggest threat in this section, although Stevie could cause a bit of an upset here in R3

Johnson - Honestly, most of the time I forget Stevie exists. He’s had some good matches, but is for the most part neither incredible or awful. A solid player, plays some good matches, but I don’t expect him to get past Feli Lopez in R2.

Dimitrov - I want to say he will be amazing and win the whole thing. But realistically, Grigor has had a tough time finding his groove. It pains me to say it, but Grigor could be an early upset here. If he meets Isner R3, that could be a long match, both are incredible players, but I fear Grigor will struggle to make it that far 

Isner - Has really found his form over the past year, definitely one to keep an eye on. Could face a real battle against Kevin in the fourth round. He should easily make it to R4, with maybe Dimitrov proving to be a difficult opponent

Section 8

Edmund - I feel like we still have question marks about his fitness. He hasn’t had a great start to the season and could struggle here. Tomas is one hell of a player, although recently back from injury. He could cause Kyle some problems early on. If Kyle can make it past Tomas, then he’ll likely have to face Schwartzman in round 3 which could be an interesting game. I don’t like Kyle’s chances of getting past R4 

Schwartzman - An incredible player, really hit his stride last year. Could struggle past Kyle, but if he manages to face Nadal, he has the potential to make it difficult. He’s the only player to have taken a set off Nadal in the 2018 French Open, he’s not to be overlooked. I think Nadal will edge him, but he could cause a massive upset

De Minaur - Not likely to cause any upsets, will probably make it to round 3 and will be promptly thrashed by Nadal. A good player, certainly one to watch later on

Nadal - What is there to say about Nadal? One of the favourites obviously. A nice draw, potential for a tricky fourth round but nothing too challenging. 

Quarter-Finals

Djokovic v Nishikori - Not sure there’s any debate here. Both solid players, I expect Novak to edge it, although I’m not opposed to a Kei upset

Zverev v Thiem - I’m not 100% sure on this one, but that’s partly my love for other players in those sections. Logically Sascha should win this tie, but I wouldn’t completely discount Domi

Cilic v Federer - Could go either way in all fairness. I like Marin’s chances, it could be a tough 5-setter for Roger

Dimitrov v Nadal - Risky choice considering what I wrote above, but this is purely down to my love and faith in Grigor. I think he can do it, and I think he could give Rafa a run for his money

Semi-Finals

Djokovic v Zverev - I’m still not confident in my Sascha choice, but I think Sascha has it in him to beat Novak and go all the way to the final 

Federer v Nadal - Both strong players, providing Rafa stays injury free and Roger remembers how to play tennis, we will final get the fedal match we deserve

Final 

Federer v Djokovic - Whoever wins will hold the record for most wins, and if Roger wins thats his 100th ATP title as well. It would be an intense 5 setter for sure

Woah that was a trip, sorry for the ramble

[saipparn]

Rafael Nadal beats rival Novak Djokovic in 4-set quarterfinal showdown at French Open

PARIS -- Rafael Nadal insists he can't know for sure whether any match at Roland Garros might be his very last at a place he loves, a place he is loved.

For now, if he keeps winning and keeps performing the way he did during his monumental quarterfinal victory over longtime rival Novak Djokovic that began in May and ended in June, Nadal will have more chances to play.

With a mix of brilliant shot-making and his trademark resilience, Nadal got past the top-seeded defending French Open champion Djokovic 6-2, 4-6, 6-2, 7-6 (4) to move a step closer to his 14th championship at the clay-court Grand Slam tournament and what would be a 22nd major trophy overall, adding to records that he already owns.

"One of those magic nights for me," Nadal said.

The match began a little past 9 p.m. Tuesday and concluded more than four hours later, after 1 a.m. Wednesday.

"TV decides,'' Djokovic said about the late start. "That's the world we are living in.''

EDITOR'S PICKS

Love every moment Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic while you can 29mTom Hamilton

Zverev stops Alcaraz run, returns to French semis 1h

Gauff beats Stephens, reaches 1st Slam semi 10m The bracket said this was a quarterfinal, yes, but it felt like a final, from the quality of play to the quality of effort, from the anticipation that preceded it to the atmosphere that enveloped it.

The only missing ingredient: There was no trophy handed to the winner.

Nadal turns 36 on Friday, when he will face third-seeded Alexander Zverev in the semifinals. When the subject of Nadal's future was brought up during his on-court interview, he smiled.

"See you, by the way, in two days,'' Nadal said. "That's the only thing that I can say.''

It'll be difficult for any match the rest of the way to live up to this one.

Nary a game, a point, a stroke or, indeed, a step came with a hint of insouciance. Both men gave their all. Nothing came easily.

Nadal's 3-0 lead in the second set did him no good; Djokovic ended up taking it and would say later, "I thought, 'OK, I'm back in the game.'''

But Djokovic's 3-0 lead in the fourth did him no good, even though he served for it at 5-3, even standing one point from forcing a fifth twice. Nadal saved those set points and broke there, then ran away with the closing tiebreaker, seizing a 6-1 edge and never losing focus after his first three match points went awry.

"I lost to a better player today,'' said Djokovic, who had won 22 sets in a row until the 49-minute opener against Nadal. "Had my chances. Didn't use them. That's it.''

This showdown was their 59th, more than any other two men have played each other in the Open era. Nadal narrowed Djokovic's series lead to 30-29 while improving to 8-2 against his rival at Roland Garros.

Nadal is now 110-3 for his career at the place. Two of those losses came against Djokovic, including in last year's semifinals. This time, Nadal made sure Djokovic remains behind him in the Slam count with 20. Nadal broke their three-way tie with Roger Federer at that number by capturing the Australian Open in January, when Djokovic was not able to play because he had not been vaccinated against COVID-19.

[mytennisdiary]

US Open 2021 - Day 12

Medvedev vs Auger-Alliasime

3 double faults from FAA to start, but he manages to hold. Medvedev seems like he’s an awfully long way back and FAA is aggressively moving forward into the court. Medvedev held easily, FAA’s service games have been more closely contested, Medvedev started to produce better returns, but Felix had a nice drop shot at 40-30. Medvedev really dug in at 3-3, played a perfect Medvedev game, an initial forehand mishit from FAA, then deep returns and long points, forcing Felix to go for winner and he broke at love. Medvedev is holding serve really comfortable, at love after getting the break. Felix is being bated into hitting drop shots because of how far back Daniil is, but they’re not working any more, Medvedev has come up with passes on the last 2. Medvedev got down 0-30 on his serve, but then came up with clutch 1st serves and got the set. Pretty much a perfect Medvedev set, excellent serving and constant pressure on the opponents return. Medvedev is over 80% on 1st serve percentage. Felix still having some issues with double faults, six for the match, but made a smart play to draw a high ball and made a leaping put away, then played a short ball that Medvedev hit into the tape on the pass attempt to get the hold. FAA’s service games have been tighter, but it does feel like he’s making fewer errors. Felix hung with Daniil on some long points, forced him to play more aggressive and was able to draw errors. Daniil missed some 1st serves and Felix crushed one return, putting some pressure on, and after a long point to get to break point, Medvedev went for a big 2nd serve and double faulted. Felix, serving for the set, coming in really effectively, hitting good volleys, gets a couple of set points, Medvedev comes up with a sweet down the line backhand winner on the first and then Felix tries to serve and volley on the 2nd and hits it into the net. Medvedev tracked down a drop shot and got a winner to force break point and then a neutral ball backhand error to drop serve. All the loose errors that Felix had totally eliminated have now recurred, Medvedev played probably the best volley I’ve ever seen him play and then Felix tossed in a few more errors and just like that Medvedev breaks at love and is serving for the set at 6-5. More errors and a couple of winners, including an ace, and Medvedev has got the set. Medvedev won something like 12 of the last 15 points, Felix is totally rattled. Though first game of the 3rd on Felix’s serve, another double fault and Daniil got it to deuce, but let FAA off the hook with a couple of errors. More bad errors, including a missed overhead, and now Daniil is up a break in 3rd. Medvedev, unprompted, made 2 double faults and gave FAA a chance, but FAA couldn’t get returns in play and Medvedev hit a big serve to close it out. Then he broke Felix at love, this is really sad the way FAA has gone away. Will he show any fight?

Djokovic vs Zverev

Djokovic serving very well to start, only 1 missed first serve through 2 service games, 2-1. Zverev had 0-30 at 2-2, but Novak went back to back serve and volley and drew return error from Zverev both times. Great serving from Zverev right now, a lot of the unreturnable, hasn’t lost a point on first serve. Zverev pressuring Djokovic again, getting returns in play, won a beautiful long rally when he tracked down a drop shop, forced a break point which Novak saved with an ace and then got out of the game with another drop shot to the backhand side. Whether that shot is going to work or not, it is telling that Djokovic is pulling the rip cord on the long rallies with that shot. Kind of like early in past matches, Djokovic is missing forehands at the ends of points when he trying to hit winners. More errors and Djokovic double faults break away, Zverev will serve for the set. Zverev got up 40-0, then got nervy, double faulted and then made a backhand error, but then Djokovic gave him a total mishit and zverev got the set. Zverev only lost 1 point on the 1st serve. 1st game on Djokovic’s serve was close again, but he managed to hold. Then Zverev played a game where he missed almost all of his first serves and then double faulted to give Djokovic a break. In the following game Zverev made a bunch of errors, has not yet bounced back mentally. Early in the set Djokovic was going to the down the line backhand earlier in points, another side he feels he can’t hit through Zverev. Even after the break Djokovic’s levels still doesn’t look amazing, both are sub 50% on first serves in this set, but Djokovic manages to hold, 1-4. Djokovic still doesn’t look fully right, but he’s making a few more serves in important points and Zverev just looks like he has less clarity in terms of his ground strokes than in the firs set, going for big shots when he should be getting it in play, not hitting as confidently and aggressively, overall it’s a weird part of the match, neither player feels in control, 2-5. Poor errors from Zverev to give Djokovic another break, definitely hasn’t recovered yet, getting frustrated about calls and going for too much too soon. The first 2 sets have gone pretty quickly, fatigue not going to be a factor, Novak still not serving as well as he can and Zverev has a break point to start the set, Novak saves it with a clutch serve and then gets out of it, how’s Zverev going to respond to that mentally. Really pretty scratchy for both players, Djokovic has also grabbed at his back a few times and I’m speculating that some of the low balls that he has to bend down for are giving him problems. He’s still serving well enough though to stay on serve. Zverev meanwhile is going for too much at times I think and not hitting his spots as well on his serve. There aren’t a lot of long rallies or much flow at all to the match right now. Djokovic making so many errors, Zverev comes up with an amazing pass-return when Djokovic serves and volleys, but then Djokovic comes up with 2 clutch serves. Djokovic clearly isn’t right and is trying to end points early, but Sasha just isn’t mentally dealing with this the way he needs to be, getting frustrated with close calls, letting opportunities slip. Djokovic is just barely doing what he needs to do to win these games, brought Sasha in and Zverev hit a volley on a shot that was going to go well long, then he tried to drop Djokovic and it wasn’t good enough. Only so-so serving from Sasha, but Novak not excelling on the returns, 4-4. Novak comes up with a nice lob and a down the line backhand winner that landed on the baseline, Zverev making a few errors stretching to his forehand. At 4-5 on Zverev’s serve, Djokovic just decided to play a game where he wasn’t going to miss, rally balls through the center of the court. Zverev survived two of them, including a 53 ball rally at 15-40, but then Djokovic got him for the break to take the set. Zverev just wasn’t making first serves in the game and he let himself fall into the 0-40 hole on his serve, just too tough to get out of. Zverev was just frustrated all set long and didn’t handle all the opportunities the way he could have. You just knew Djokovic was going to dig in like this and do whatever it takes, Sasha just didn’t get him when he was down. Incredible 10 minute game at 1-1, so many long rallies, Djokovic had multiple game points and Zverev really dug in, much more confident with ground strokes, hitting hard with big margins, Djokovic saved the first break point with a great serve, but he couldn’t get the 2nd  one and Sasha got him with a winner down the line. Novak stared at his box the entire changeover. The hitting has gotten much bigger, more like the 1st set, and Zverev has gotten steadier again. Zverev played a slightly shaky game, let it get to deuce, but came up with a 130 mph second serve at deuce and then was able to hold on a Djokovic error. Zverev finally got a comfortable hold and then he played Djokovic tight, but he held. Now Zverev has to serve for it, Zverev served it out confidently, he looks back in control of his groundstrokes and the big point in the game was when he tracked down a drop shot and came up with the forehand winner. Djokovic holds and then Zverev plays a shaky service game, doesn’t make enough first serves, double faults and then gets into a 30 shot rally on break point and plays the perfect drop shot to get the weak reply and the break, 2-0. Strong serving from Novak, that wide serve on the deuce side still paying dividends, finding much better angles with his groundstrokes, maybe Zverev’s movement has slowed down just a tiny bit, able to hold, 3-0. Djokovic has just raised his level so much, getting difficult returns in play and then on break point got some crazy reaches back in play and then forced an error from Zverev on a high, high overhead. Now Zverev is making errors and so quickly its become 5-0. Just incredible the way Djokovic raised his level in every way in this fifth set. Djokovic served for the match and Zverev dug in, it took 5 break points, but Novak double faulted to lose the game. There was also an amazing point where Sasha looked like he was out of it and then came up with a beautiful slice on the run, a passing shot, and then a winner, 5-2. The level of play at the end was fantastically high, both players moving so well, Djokovic just too good in the end, able to break Zverev in a tight final game. Djokovic defended Tsitsipas and the bathroom breaks in the post match interview, said he didn’t think he was doing anything wrong, said he thought the rules were unclear.

[your-dietician]

Previewing All 16 Manic Monday Matchups at Wimbledon

New Post has been published on https://tattlepress.com/tennis/previewing-all-16-manic-monday-matchups-at-wimbledon/

Previewing All 16 Manic Monday Matchups at Wimbledon

By Chris Oddo | @TheFanChild | Sunday July 4, 2021

  It’s the wildest day in Grand Slam tennis. 16 round of 16 matches, and we’ve previewed them all.

Photo Source: Getty

With the first week of Wimbledon in the rearview mirror, we look ahead to a crackin’ manic Monday at the Championships. The best day in tennis—16 Grand Slam matches, all on one day, spread out across the grounds of the All England Club. How lovely is that?

Also Read: Wimbledon, Manic Monday, Order of Play Also Read: Wimbledon, Week 1, By the Numbers

Without any further ado, let’s have a look at each of the matchups, starting with Centre Court:

[1] Novak Djokovic v [17] Cristian Garin Head to Head: Djokovic leads, 1-0 Key stat: Djokovic has won 17 consecutive matches at the Grand Slams, and at Wimbledon

The Skinny: Hard to imagine Garin, who entered Wimbledon with an 0-3 record at Wimbledon, making any headway against the World No.1. Djokovic dropped his first set of the tournament but since then he has mostly been dominant. The Serb has faced just seven break points through three rounds, and he has broken serve 14 times in 33 return games.

It’s been a great run for Garin, but he has won just 45 percent of his baseline points through three rounds, while Djokovic has won 57 percent of his.

[20] Coco Gauff v [25] Angelique Kerber Head to Head: First meeting Key stat: Gauff leads all remaining women in serve speed, and percentage of unreturned first serves and second serves, through three rounds.

The Skinny: This should be an incredible first-time meeting. Suddenly surging Kerber, the 2018 Wimbledon champion, has won eight straight matches on the grass. She’s come to life since taking the court in Bad Homburg, where she won the title on home soil (her first WTA title since 2018).

Meanwhile, Gauff has backed up her 2019 breakout performance (remember Cocomania? It’s back!) brilliantly, with one of the best serving weeks of her life. At 17, Gauff could be ready to take down a Wimbledon force, but Kerber will have the edge from the baseline—the trick for the German will be to get returns in play and make Gauff work.

[6] Roger Federer v [17] Lorenzo Sonego Head to Head: Federer leads, 1-0 Key stat: Sonego had never won a match at Wimbledon prior to this week

The Skinny: Roger Federer—he of the eight Wimbledon titles and gaudy 104-13 record at SW19—will take on a rising Italian that could potentially give him trouble, despite his lack of experience on the grass: Lorenzo Sonego. The key to the match will be Federer’s ability to clean up on serve. The Swiss has been broken just four times thus far at Wimbledon and he’ll need to hit his spots because Sonego will serve big and dictate from his end.

If Sonego plays free, with confidence, and embraces the Centre Court experience, we could be in for a close battle.

No.1 Court

[1] Ashleigh Barty v [14] Barbora Krejcikova Head to Head:  Barty leads, 1-0 Key stat: Krejcikova, the Roland Garros champion, stretched her Grand Slam winning streak to 15 on Saturday at Wimbledon.

The Skinny: Ash Barty is in her happy place, on the Wimbledon grass, sporting a Fila kit modelled after the one her idol and inspiration Evonne Goolagong wore while storming to the Wimbledon title 50 years ago. And she’s played herself into the tournament quite nicely. Barty dropped a set to Carla Suarez Navarro in her opener, but has controlled her last two opponents—Anna Blinkova and Katerina Siniakova—without needing to pull out her best tennis.

Krejcikova’s week one played out similarly. She dropped a set in her third-round match, and has actually committed more unforced errors (98) than winners (88) through three rounds. But she’s found ways to win, just like Barty. Now we get to see which one of these two former Roland Garros champions has the gumption to beat back the pressure and handle a world-class opponent on Monday—expect a crafty, nuanced battle, with rough patches and elevated tennis juxtaposed.

[4] Alexander Zverev v [16] Felix Auger-Aliassime Head to Head: Zverev leads, 3-0 Key stat: Both players are searching for their first Wimbledon quarter-final.

The Skinny: Zverev has a lot more experience in week two matches at majors, and he’ll look to put that to use against Auger-Aliassime, who can be prone to nerves and has never reached a Grand Slam quarterfinal.

There is also the fact that Zverev has won all six sets he has played against Auger-Aliassime, dropping just 15 games in the three previous meetings.

[WC] Emma Raducanu v Ajla Tomljanovic Head to Head: First meeting Key stat: At 338, Raducanu is the lowest-ranked player remaining in Wimbledon singles.

The Skinny: Welcome to the only all unseeded battle of Wimbledon’s round of 16. 18-year-old Brit Emma Raducanu has captivated the public by sweeping through three rounds in her first tour-level appearance, and she’s been given a nice draw as well—Tomljanovic, a hard-hitting first-strike artist, is playing her first Wimbledon round of 16, and is into the second week at a Slam for the first time since 2014. It will be a nervous affair for both, and the crowd on No.1 Court will certainly play a factor.

No. 2 Court

[7] Iga Swiatek v [21] Ons Jabeur Head to Head: Swiatek leads, 1-0 Key stat: Swiatek leads all players, male or female, in percentage of baseline points won, at 60 percent.

The Skinny: Of all the round of 16 matchups on Monday, this one could be the most intriguing. Swiatek has proven to be a steady force at the Slams, and she has been dominant in her three rounds at Wimbledon. She seems to have a clear picture of how she wants to play on the grass, and is growing very confident in her aggressive tactics.

But if there is a player with the potential to take her out of her comfort zone, it would be Jabeur, who has been able to keep her opponents on a string with a steady array of drop shots, slice and improv. Jabeur has won 36 of 47 points at net through three rounds, while Swiatek has made the trip to the net just 15 times.

But Swiatek’s confident handling of her serve might be the element that guides her through. She has held in 23 of 25 service games, and is winning 57 percent of second-serve points.

[5] Andrey Rublev v Fucsovics Head to Head: Rublev leads, 4-1 Key stat: Rublev has defeated Fucsovics four straight times.

The Skinny: Of course, they meet again! We had to expect this matchup the minute that Fucsovics told Rublev, on court in Dubai after losing to him in the quarter-finals this March, that he hoped he didn’t see him again in 2021. The very next week they met in Miami, and here they are again for a fifth meeting since last October.

Rublev has been under the radar at Wimbledon, but boy has he been good. The improvements he has made on serve will give him a significant advantage against Fucsovics, as it will allow him to strike first.

[2] Daniil Medvedev v [14] Hubert Hurkacz Head to Head: First meeting Key stat: Hurkacz is the only player remaining in the draw that has yet to have his serve broken.

The Skinny: Hubert Hurkacz won his first Masters title at Miami this spring, but he limped into Wimbledon on a six-match losing streak. He went 0 for the clay but the change of surface has suited the Pole well—he’s into the round of 16 without dropping a set.

But Medvedev is growing in confidence, thanks to his quarterfinal run at Roland-Garros, where he reached the quarter-finals, and his epic comeback against former Wimbledon finalist Marin Cilic on Day 6 (Medvedev’s first such comeback). The Russian was down two sets to love but refused to wilt. Now he has his eyes on a deep run.

Court 3

[2] Aryna Sabalenka v [18] Elena Rybakina Head to Head: Sabalenks leads, 2-0 Key stat: Sabalenka is the only Top-20 seed at Wimbledon that has yet to reach a Grand Slam quarterfinal.

The Skinny: Here we go again. For the second time in three majors in 2021, Aryna Sabalenka has reached the round of 16. In her 15th major appearance, the talented Belarusian will attempt to finally reach the last eight at a major. She has weathered a few storms to get through, easing past crafty Monica Niculescu in round one, then beating back a stern challenge against Katie Boulter—where she lost the opening set and fought like mad to win the second—to get to week two.

On the other side of the net? A juggernaut known as Elena Rybakina. All she has done on her Wimbledon debut is crush everything in her path. She has lost 17 games through three rounds and will be ready to pounce on Sabalenka if nerves sabotage the Belarusian’s game. Rybakina has dropped serve just once in 21 service games at Wimbledon thus far this year.

Buckle in—this match will feature some hardcore grass-court power tennis.

[8] Roberto Bautista Agut v [10] Denis Shapovalov Head to Head: First meeting Key stat: Shapovalov is the 2016 Boys’ Singles champion at Wimbledon.

The Skinny: Should be a bit of a battle for control in this contest. Shapovalov will look to get on the front foot in rallies and avoid playing too many grinding points with Bautista Agut. The Spaniard, in return, will look to do the opposite.

The imperative in this match will be Shapovalov’s serve plus one and his ability to hit winners when he needs them. Otherwise he’ll be forced into a battle that he may not be able to win against the cagey veteran. The Canadian can win this match, but he’ll only do so on his terms.

Court 12

[7] Matteo Berrettini v Ilya Ivashka Head to Head: First meeting Key stat: Berrettini has won eight straight on grass in 2021.

The Skinny: The Italian is looking like a future Wimbledon champion this year at SW19. And it’s all about holding serve. Berrettini, the Queen’s champion, has held serve in 47 of 48 service games and cracked the fastest serve of the tournament at 139. He’ll be a handful for anyone he faces, and especially a Wimbledon debutant like Ivashka.

That said, the Belarusian has been so impressive at Wimbledon through three matches—and he has a big game as well. But Berrettini’s edge in the serve and forehand should pull him through.

[8] Karolina Pliskova v [WC] Liudmila Samsonova Head to Head: First meetings Key stat: Samsonova has reeled off eight straight wins on grass.

The Skinny:  Speaking of stunning Wimbledon debuts, how about Russia’s Liudmila Samsonov, who took the Berlin grass-court title in June with wins over Marketa Vondrousova, Veronika Kudermetova, Madison Keys, Victoria Azarenka and Belinda Bencic. She’s continued to dominate on the Wimbledon grass, even if she needed three sets, twice.

Wins over Kaia Kanepi, Jessica Pegula and Sloane Stephens are further proof that the Russian is for real—especially on the fast-playing grass. The fact that she averages over 111 on her first serve—topping out at 121—really helps her organize her aggressive game.

Pliskova’s average first serve is seven MPH lower than Samsonova’s but the Czech has only been broken twice and has yet to drop a set. We could have a case of Karolina Pliskova peaking at the right time for the first time in a while at a Slam.

[30] Paula Badosa v [19] Karolina Muchova Head to Head: First meeting Key stat: Muchova reached the quarterfinals on her last Wimbledon appearance.

The Skinny:  As far as experience on the surface goes, the matchup favors Muchova, who reached the last eight on her debut last Wimbledon, and seems to have a game that is built for grass-court tennis. But full credit to Badosa, who entered Wimbledon without an 0-1 lifetime record, but found a way to power through three hard-fought victories to reach the round of 16.

Have to think Muchova is the favorite here, but Badosa, a quarterfinalist at Roland-Garros this year, has proven to be a resilient force on tour in 2021.

Court 18

[25] Karen Khachanov v Sebastian Korda Head to Head: First meeting Key stat: Korda was ranked 213 when he entered Roland Garros last autumn.

The Skinny: All eyes will be on 20-year-old Sebastian Korda, the world No.50, as he continues on his latest impressive run at the Slams. Korda become the first player 35 years to reach the second week at both Roland Garros and Wimbledon on his debut (only Bjorn Borg and Mikael Pernfors have done it in the Open Era) and he leads the tournament in forehand winners with 58.

He’ll go against a suddenly resurgent Karen Khachanov, who entered the week with a 16-14 record for 2021, but has been pretty dominant through three rounds. Grass suits Khachanov well—he’s 10-3 lifetime at Wimbledon—and he’s one of the few guys that can match power from the baseline with Korda.

[23] Madison Keys v Viktorija Golubic Head to Head: Tied, 1-1 Key stat: Keys is 18-7 lifetime at Wimbledon

The Skinny:  Madison Keys seems to be finding her strut after a challenging six months that saw her struggle to get matches under her belt and find her form. But Wimbledon—and any Slam for that matter—always seems to bring out the best in Keys. She’s firing on all cylinders and will look to overpower Golubic as she bids to reach her second Wimbledon quarterfinal and first since 2015.

For Golubic the challenge is simple: find ways to get Keys out of rhythm and make her miss. Easier said than done on this surface.

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Wimbledon schedule 2021: Full draws, TV coverage, channels & more to watch every tennis match

The Championship is back.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Wimbledon was canceled in 2020 but things are a go in 2021. Just two weeks and a day after the French Open champions were crowned, tennis’ grass court championship will begin on Mon., June 28.

Two years may have elapsed but the storylines are running deep this year. Novak Djokovic, who captured the men’s title in 2019, returns to the All-England Club as the No. 1 seed and halfway to his first career Grand Slam as he’s won the Australian and French Open titles already in 2021. Eight-time champion Roger Federer continues his return to peak form and will not have to worry about Rafael Nadal eclipsing him for most men’s Grand Slam titles at the tournament. 

The Spaniard, who is tied with Federer at 20, headlines a number of stars skipping tennis’ lone grass court Slam. Among those not competing are Naomi Osaka, 2019 women’s champion Simona Halep, Dominic Thiem, David Goffin and Milos Raonic. 

But while the women’s side won’t have the No. 2 (Osaka) and No. 3 (Halep) players in the world competing, No. 1 Ash Barty is. She’s never made it past the fourth round at Wimbledon and she has a big name looming. If the Aussie makes it to the semis, she could see Serena Williams. The American is still looking for her 24th Grand Slam to tie Margaret Court’s all-time record. The holder of the most women’s singles titles in the Open Era, Williams has won on grass seven times, most recently in 2016.

Here is the full Wimbledon 2021 schedule, including draws, TV coverage breakdown and order of play for each round. 

MORE: Watch Wimbledon live with fuboTV (7-day free trial)

Wimbledon 2021 schedule

Wimbledon’s matches can be viewed on ESPN or ESPN2. All matches can also be streamed on ESPN3 and ESPN+ through the ESPN app. A subscription to fuboTV, which offers a free seven-day trial, provides access to all coverage.

In Canada, TSN will have the matches in addition to TSN.ca and the TSN App.

Date Round Time (ET) TV Channel Mon., June 28 First Round 6 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. ESPN     11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. ESPN2 Tues., June 29 First Round 6 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. ESPN     11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. ESPN2 Wed., June 30 Second Round 6 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. ESPN Thurs., July 1 Second Round 6 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. ESPN Fri., July 2 Third Round 6 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. ESPN   Third Round 11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. ESPN2 Sat., July 3 Third Round 8 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. ESPN     11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. ESPN2     2 p.m. – 5 p.m. ESPN Mon., July 5 Round of 16 (Court 1, others) 6 a.m. – 4 p.m. ESPN2   Round of 16 (Centre Court) 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. ESPN Tues., July 6 Women’s quarterfinals (Centre Court) 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. ESPN   Women’s quarterfinals (Court 1) 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. ESPN2 Wed., July 7 Men’s quarterfinals (Centre Court) 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. ESPN   Men’s quarterfinals (Court 1) 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. ESPN2 Thurs., July 8 Women’s semifinals 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. ESPN Fri., July 9 Men’s semifinals 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. ESPN Sat., July 10 Women’s final, men’s doubles final, women’s doubles final 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. ESPN Sun., July 11 Men’s final, mixed doubles final 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. ESPN

When is Wimbledon 2021?

The 2021 Championships begins Monday, June 28 and concludes the weekend of June 10-11 with the women’s final on Saturday and the men’s final on Sunday.

MORE: Watch Wimbledon live with fuboTV (7-day free trial)

What is Wimbledon 2021 men’s singles draw?

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What is Wimbledon 2021 women’s singles draw?

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2021 Wimbledon top-10 best odds

The defending men’s singles champ and the women’s No. 1 player have the best odds to win in 2021, per FanDuel. 

(Odds as of June 25)

Men’s singles

Player Odds Novak Djokovic -140 Daniil Medvedev +750 Stefanos Tsitsipas +750 Matteo Berrettini +1400 Roger Federer +1400 Alexander Zverev +1800 Andrey Rublev +3800 Nick Kyrgios +5500

Nine players at +7000: Alex De Minaur, Aslan Karatsev, Daniel Elahi Galan, Denis Shapovalov, Felix Auger-Aliassime, Jannik Sinner, Karen Khachanov, Marin Cilic and Ugo Humbert.

Women’s singles

Players Odds Ash Barty +750 Serena Williams +750 Aryna Sabalenka +1400 Garbine Muguruza +1400 Petra Kvitova +1400 Iga Swiatek +1400 Bianca Andreescu +1800 Elena Rybakina +1800 Coco Gauff +2100 Barbora Krejcikova +2500

What is Wimbledon’s 2021 schedule today?

Men’s singles

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Women’s singles

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[sacramentonewsjournal]

Lorenzo Musetti & Holger Rune Qualify For The Intesa Sanpaolo Subsequent Gen ATP Finals | ATP Tour

Lorenzo Musetti and Holger Rune have certified for the Intesa Sanpaolo Subsequent Gen ATP Finals, to be held in Milan from 8-12 November. They each will compete on the 21-and-under season finale for the second consecutive yr. Twenty-year-old Musetti and 19-year-old Rune assured their spots Friday by advancing to the semi-finals of the Sofia Open. They may develop into the fourth and fifth gamers to play within the Intesa Sanpaolo Subsequent Gen ATP Finals in consecutive years, becoming a member of Andrey Rublev, Alex de Minaur and Frances Tiafoe. Musetti claimed his first ATP Tour title this July on the ATP 500 occasion in Hamburg. The Italian saved two match factors in opposition to Dusan Lajovic within the first spherical earlier than beautiful then-World No. 6 Carlos Alcaraz in an exciting three-set ultimate. Musetti additionally defeated then-World No. 9 Felix Auger-Aliassime in Monte Carlo and 2021 Nitto ATP Finals qualifier Hubert Hurkacz in Rotterdam. The 6’1” righty reached a career-high No. 30 within the Pepperstone ATP Rankings on 1 July. “It was my aim this yr to play in entrance of a house crowd once more and to be a greater participant in comparison with final yr and to try to elevate the trophy,” Musetti mentioned. “I’m joyful I certified for this actually vital occasion and I’m joyful to be there. It’s all the time particular to play in your nation, so I hope the gang will give me additional for my successful probabilities.” Holger Rune” /> Rune started his season outdoors the High 100, however has climbed as excessive as World No. 26, making him the highest-ranked Danish participant in Pepperstone ATP Rankings historical past (since 1973). Rune lifted his first ATP Tour trophy in Munich, the place he ousted then-World No. 3 Alexander Zverev within the second spherical. The teenager additionally made the quarter-finals at Roland Garros, the place he upset then-World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas within the fourth spherical to develop into the primary Danish man to succeed in a Grand Slam quarter-final within the Open Period (since 1968). “I really feel good. It’s a nice step,” Rune mentioned. “Each time you obtain this it exhibits that you’ve had an excellent yr. I’m tremendous joyful for that and actually excited to go there once more. It’s such an excellent occasion. It’s in all probability one of the vital enjoyable ones of the yr, so I’m tremendous excited.” The previous two Intesa Sanpaolo Subsequent Gen ATP Finals champions, Carlos Alcaraz (2021) and Jannik Sinner (2019) — who’re in first and second place within the Pepperstone ATP Dwell Race To Milan — is not going to be competing on this yr’s occasion. Alcaraz has already certified for the Nitto ATP Finals and Sinner continues his quest to compete in Turin for the second consecutive yr after taking part in two matches as an alternate final yr. Originally published at Sacramento News Journal

[googlenewson]

Novak Djokovic and Daniil Medvedev will fight for the season's first Major title on Sunday at Melbourne Park. The defending champion Novak Djokovic is seeking his ninth Australian Open trophy, never losing after reaching the semi-final at his beloved tournament and seeking the 19th Major title that would keep him close to Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. Novak had to dig deep in four out of six encounters, battling past Frances Tiafoe, Taylor Fritz, Milos Raonic and Alexander Zverev, spending 13 hours and 20 minutes on the court to pass those obstacles and overcoming an abdomen injury en route to the semis. Novak ousted Aslan Karatsev in straight sets to sail into the title clash, hoping to end Medvedev's 20 consecutive victories. The Russian will make a debut in the top-3 on Monday and pass Rafael Nadal to join Novak in the top-2 if he wins the title, his fourth in a row following the Paris Masters, the ATP Finals and the ATP Cup.

Daniil has won three of the previous four encounters against Novak, showing great tennis and scoring five straight-sets victories. Daniil had troubles against Filip Krajinovic, beating the Serb in five sets and standing strong against Mackenzie McDonald, Andrey Rublev and Stefanos Tsitsipas to reach his second Major final after the US Open 2019.

Mats Wilander expects tight Australian Open final between Djokovic and Medvedev.

For Mats Wilander, Djokovic and Medvedev are the world's best players at the moment, especially on the fast hard court like the one at Melbourne Park. The Swede gives a slight edge to Djokovic, who is yet to lose the title match in Melbourne, although he understands that Medvedev is ready to challenge world no. 1 for four or five hours, especially if he beats Novak in the physical segment. 

"I'm really looking forward to Djokovic against Medvedev. I think they are the world's best players at the moment, especially on the faster hard court like the one in Melbourne. We are not 100% sure how Djokovic is feeling physically, and Medvedev will not go down in that segment, not even after four or five hours. For me, it's 51-49 in Djokovic's favor, but we will see an exciting battle and extended rallies. Medvedev is the upcoming star that can challenge Djokovic the most, but the Serb is yet to lose a final in Melbourne,"

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/3uiLLKc

[boloorsportsmania]

#863 Anderson-Leach masterclass helps England humiliate India in first test; Rizwan can do nothing wrong as his century helps Pakistan beat SA in first T20; WI has edge in 2nd test vs Bdesh; Keeper blunders cost Liverpool against ManCity;Thiem and Djokovic survives 5-setter scare; Nadal, Zverev, Medvedev and Tsitsipas still on target to reach to 2nd week of Aus open; Kenin, Kerber and Andreescu knocked out in ladies draw; Serena, halep and Osaka favorites in ladies draw and more..:-)

On day 4, India continued their good work as Ashwin and Sundar took India past 300. Just when it looked like they would take India past follow on target, Leach struck, Once Ashwin was dismissed for 31, India lost last 3 wickets for just 32 runs. Sundar remained unbeaten at 85. India made 337. Ashwin’s 5-fer helped India skittle England for just 178 in 2nd innings. Root again impressed with a classy knock of 41. But there was hardly any pressure on him. India had to play 13 overs on day 4 and full of day 5 to save or win the game. Target was 420. Leach gave England a brilliant start as he dismissed Rohit with a beauty. Rohit played completely the wrong line. On day 4 and 5 putches in India, batsmen need to play as much late as possible. He put a forward stride well before ball s;pun and didn’t cover the turn. India ended day 4 at 39-1. On day 5, Leach gave England a dream start when castled Pujara. Virat and SHubman then played well for few overs before Anderson completely changed the game towards England, He castled Gill for 50 and Rahane for duck in the same over with a reverse in swinging deliveries. India 92-4. He dismissed Pant with an off cutter soon after. India 110-5. Bess dismissed Sundar for duck. India 117-6. Though Virat and Ashwin tried hard for 18 overs, writing was on the wall. These 2 batted for almost an hour post lunch. Leach dismissed Ashwin again for 9. Virat fought hard for his 72 but was dismissed by an inswinger from Stokes which kept low. He played well though. India were dismissed for 192. England won by an innings and 227 runs. It is a massive loss for India in India. This is India’s first loss in Chennai since 1999 when India lost to SA. This is just 2nd loss for Virat at home as captain. This is the first match where Ashwin grabbed a 5-fer at home but India ended up losing. India were literally humiliated. They need to pump themselves up for 2nd test. It looks like 2nd test would produce a turner. India could well Kuldeep or Axar or even both. Siraj might make way for Ishant.

In first T20, Rizwan’s 64 ball unbeaten 104 helped Pakistan to 169. Pakistan keeper cant putb a foot wrong these days. In last 10 international innings, he has scored 4 fifties and 2 centuries. SA reached close but lost match by 3 runs. They needed 19 runs of last over and 6 of last ball. Abdul; Qadir’s son Usman Qadir shined with the ball. In 2nd test, gritty fifties by Bonner, Joshua De Silva and Alzarri Joseph helped WI to a score of 409. Gabriel reduced Bangladesh to 11-2. Bangladesh ended day 2 at 105-4.

In EPL, ManCity vs Liverpool was a marquee match. Liverpool had City’s number in last 2 years. City made all the moves in first half. They even had a penalty but Gundogan missed as he sailed high. That put pressure on City. But same German star gave City the lead early in 2nd half. Post that Salah equalized for Liverpool. Just when it looked like reds would up the ante, their keeper made blunders which helped City win the match 4-1. Gundogan scored 2 goals and was the star. City now lead ManU by 5 points, Leicester City by 7 points and Liverpool by 10 points with an additional game in hand.This was City’s 15th successive wins across competitions. They are infact unbeaten in last 22 games since 21-Nov when they lost 2-0 to Spurs. Interestingly they face Spurs next in EPL.

In Australian open, all top 8 seeds in mens baring Schwartzman are still alive. Match of the week was Kyrgios vs Thiem in 3rd round. Kyrgios won the first 2 sets 6-4. Thiem came back to win next 3 6-3 6-4 6-4. Kyrgios deserved to win this but didn’t know how to close it in 4th and 5th set. Djokovic won first 2 sets against Fritz before he had waist injury. That enabled Fritz to win next 2. Just when it looked like we would witness 8 time champion being knocked out, he found some gas in final set to win the match 6-2. His injury could be serious though and it would be interesting to see if he can recover within 2 days. Zverev reached 4th round too Nadal, Medvedev,Rublev and Tsitsipas all reached 3rd round. In ladies section, Kerber and defending champion Kenin were knocked out. Osaka, Serena and Halep are now favorites to win. Andreescu also was knocked out. Pliskova could be dark horse. Will Serena finally win her 24th slam which ahs eluded her from last 2 years??

[mytennisdiary]

US Open 2021 - Day 8

It’s now the first time in the open era that no American man or woman is in the quarterfinals of the US Open.

Maybe the worst day of the open so far, no matches that went to a deciding set today. That is, until the Sakkari Andreescu match which was an absolute epic.

Bencic vs Swiatek

Bencic has just come out on fire, crushing Swiatek’s 2nd serve and breaking immediately. Bencic’s first serve percentage has been exceptional throughout the tournament and she looks practically untouchable with points only last a few shots on those games. On the Swiatek serve, Swiatek is winning a lot of points on her first serve and is doing a nice job changing direction, whereas Bencic is just crushing the ball cross court. Bencic has really improved her consistency on her ball toss over the years and it’s allowed her to be much more effective on her serve than she used to be. Swiatek is mixing up her serve trying to keep Bencic off balance, she’s managed to  save a lot of break points (5 I think) as the first set has progressed. Suddenly, just before needing to serve out the set Bencic has started to show signs of some sort of a back injury, she’s had issues with the back in the past. Her first serve lost some of its effectiveness and she missed several of them, allowing Swiatek who has grown in confidence off the ground to break back and take the lead on serve at 6-5. Bencic saved a set point and we went to a tiebreak. Crazy, 14-12, 22 minute tiebreaker, both players were tight at times, particularly Bencic. Swiatek definitely looked the more likely player to win it, her groundstrokes, particularly her backhand, were excellent, but Aga missed a crucial volley that would have given her the set and Bencic was able to play solid enough defense in a few big moments to eventually take the set. Relatively drama free 2nd set, Bencic got back to playing the way she had been and closed out the match on her first attempt.

Zverev vs Sinner

Zverev got an early break and rode his excellent serving to the 1st set. Kind of a scratchy second set, a lot of errors preventing either player from being too aggressive in long rallies. Big game at 4-4, Sinner got down 0-40 but managed to save all 3 break points. Then, at Deuce, Sinner missed a volley winner really, really badly and Zverev played a great rally point to get the break. Zverev, trying to serve it out, Sinner hit some incredible returns to get to 15-40 and then hit some great returns on those points too, but he threw in some bad, bad forehand misses on rally balls. Zverev double faulted on a game point, but then threw in a 132 mph 2nd serve to get another chance. Sinner missed a high backhand volley badly to give Zverev a 2-0 set lead. Zverev was up a break but double faulted his lead away. Sinner is digging in late in the set. Ended up in a tiebreaker, but Sinner had so many chances, was able to get up a mini-break a couple of times in tiebreak and had a short ball winner opportunity at 6-5 that he just missed. Jannik was really spectacular at moments, including with some incredible returns of big Zverev serves, but he just wasn’t able to take any of his big chances and Zverev pulled it out in straights.

Opelka vs Harris

Opelka saved 6 break points in the first game of the match, Harris doing a really great job on any 2nd serve returns he gets. Harris has also done a really good job not getting intimidated by Opelka up at net, finding ways to pass him. He got the break late in the first set and served for it at 5-4 only to make 4 consecutive errors, 3 of them double faults. However, the rest of the match Harris totally dominated, Opelka looked physically spent early in the match and Harris won the next 3 sets pretty comfortably

Raducanu vs Rogers

Rogers started the match up 2-0, but then Raducanu won practically all the rest of the games in the match. Rogers just looked physically spent and unable to play at a level that would have been necessary to really challenge Raducanu. Raducanu is really quick to close down the court and attack any short ball.

Berrettini vs Otte

This was a highly competitive match with both guys splitting the first 2 sets. Otte has a quick service motion and a deadly out wide serve. Otte got a bit too predictable on his 2nd serve and Berrettini started being able to run around the backhand and hit forehands for huge returns. Otte then fell in the 4th set and hurt his wrist and couldn’t really serve or hit the forehand anymore and that basically finished him off.

Pliskova vs Pavlyuchenkova

Pliskova looked really solid, serving well and making very few errors. Got the key break at the end of the first set and then got the 2nd pretty comfortably.

Djokovic vs Brooksby

Brooksby came out hot in the first set, he served a few break points in his first service game and then managed to break Djokovic. His movement is absolutely incredible and he just doesn’t make errors. Meanwhile, Djokovic’s forehand is sailing long and he’s falling into the Brooksby trap of trying to go for too much to get out of the long rallies against him. Brooksby just doesn’t miss, he lulls you to sleep and then slams some forehands. He handles pace really well and is able to turn it in to offense in reply forcing Djokovic to make errors. He also approaches really effectively on the backhand side which is unusual. His sideswiper slice shot is really unusual and he gets it really deep or drops it short with great disguise. Djokovic just looks mentally rattled by the slow start. In the 2nd set Djokovic came our refocused and got an immediate lead, but then in a marathon 20 minute game on Djokovic’s serve Brooksby managed to break back. Djokovic is serving so big and it worked early in the game, but as the game he missed more and more. He also just was the one trying to end the points and made a lot of errors. After 5 chances to break Brooksby finally got a break on the 6th. Afterwards Djokovic finally adapted, digging in, extending points with the slice, not going for so many homeruns with the forehand. He managed to break right back and get the set. In the third, Brooksby came out looking flat and made some bizarre choices including running away from a volley and got broken. Both players looked exhausted early in the set, but Djokovic grinded out some long points and got the 2-0 lead. A big adjustment was Djokovic finding the forehand more since Brooksby just doesn’t miss with the backhand. Brooksby’s movement has declined just enough to make him less effective and Djokovic, while not exactly cruising, has been in much more control and took the 3rd set by a pretty wide margin. Roddick tweeted, “First he takes your legs ... ... then he takes your soul” and the way Djokovic has dismantled Brooksby as this match has progressed has been incredible. Djokovic’s movement has been incredible on some big points as Brooksby has looked totally spent. Brooksby, while still fighting, looks like a shell of the player he was early in the match. Djokovic really dominated him in the 4th set to get the victory and was very complimentary of Brooksby after the match. It was a very exciting first 2 sets and a very impressive albeit familiar recovery from Novak.

Sakkari vs Andreescu

Both players have pretty similar styles playing aggressive first strike tennis. Not going to be a lot of long points. Sakkari looks a bit more powerful, but also a bit more error prone. She dropped her first service game making a lot of errors, including 3 double faults. Andreescu is serving much better to start and Sakkari isn’t getting enough returns in play, letting Bianca get a 3-0 lead. Bianca had a volley that would have given her a 2 break lead, not an easy volley because it was right at her. Sakkari has stepped back and adjusted to Andreescu’s power, she’s also staying in points with her defense instead of just going for broke and it’s made a difference as Andreescu has thrown in some more misses and allowed Sakkari to break back, 4-3. It’s really Sakkari’s backhand against Andreescu’s forehand. Apart from the game where she was broken in Andreescu’s first serve has been excellent and she’s making it consistently. In the tiebreak Sakkari fell behind after and early double fault and Andreescu won some of the longer rallies of the set. Sakkari’s forehand is just not a shot she can use to consistently keep on the offensive and by continually attacking that shot Andreescu was able to get control of and win the majority of rallies to take the tiebreak 7-2. Andreescu struggling early in 2nd with something in her eye. They traded breaks early in the set. This match is so incredibly close, it’s really difficult to find anything to separate them. The only think of note is just how incredibly fast and aggressively Andreescu gets up to any short ball. They just played an absolutely epic game at 5-5, longest of the match, with some outrageous points and Sakkari somehow pulling through. Andreescu had a heavy fall, but Sakkari missed a couple crucial returns to send it to a tiebreak. Sakkari played some awesome points early in the breaker to get the lead. She failed to convert on 3 set points when she couldn’t get 2 returns in play and then hit a so-so drop shot that Andreescu tracked down, but then on the 4th chance at 7-6 she forced an error from Bianca to send it to a 3rd. This match is long and exceedingly physical, Going on 2 and a half hours before the 3rd set even starts. The real question at this point is Andreescu’s fitness because Sakkari, physically, looks great. Two things to watch early in the 3rd set, Bianca’s forehand, usually her best shot, has made a lot of errors; Maria’s serve, 9 double faults. Both players trade breaks to start the 3rd, 1-2. At 2-3, the match has cleared the 3 hour mark and Andreescu has gone off court for a medical timeout. She’s had all these problems with injuries. Andreescu has come back with heavy strapping on her left thigh and the injury is really effecting her on the serve when she has to land on the left leg. She’s moving pretty well in the rallies, but she’s collapsing after points. Sakkari got a hard fought break and now Bianca is really in trouble. Latest finish for a women’s match at the US Open ever, 5th longest women’s match in US Open history since they started keeping track of match time in 1970. It ended up at 3 and a half hours and ended at 2:14 at night. Andreescu saved 3 match points and was staggering around looking like a punch-drunk heavyweight but Maria finally closed it out at 6-3 in the 3rd.

[mhsn033]

ATP & WTA Tours return: Why a lack of fans could mean better behaviour on court

John McEnroe’s renowned rant

Practically 40 years within the past, John McEnroe screamed four words of fury at Wimbledon: “You would possibly perhaps well perchance’t be serious!”

That inappropriate outburst – in tandem with a supreme skills which ended in six Sizable Slam singles titles – created a ‘insurrection with out a contrivance off’ persona which boosted the American’s profile previous tennis.

Now not that he the least bit times felt it turn out to be to his revenue.

“I turned what I’d tell turn out to be admire a cigarette smoker that would possibly perhaps well perchance no longer kick the dependancy,” McEnroe talked about in a 2018 interview.exterior-link “It felt admire I turn out to be doing it for the negative causes.”

One motive turn out to be entertainment.

With ATP and WTA events returning within the support of closed doorways this month, a number one sports psychologist believes the dearth of followers is seemingly to appear fewer controversial outbursts.

“The expression of arouse would possibly perhaps well perchance perchance moreover very correctly be a strategic blueprint of releasing frustration, nonetheless it would possibly perhaps perchance perhaps well perchance moreover very correctly be a communication characteristic and a intention of intelligent the followers,” says Andy Lane, who has labored with elite athletes all the most effective blueprint by varied sports for over 30 years.

“When there would possibly perhaps be no crowd, you are now no longer irritated due to the you are losing in front of a crowd, you are now no longer talking to anybody rather then your opponent, and also you are now no longer attempting to entertain a crowd.

“Without the expectation of followers, it is admire walking out to a coaching match. They’re walking in cold with none noise to gee them up, so they’re relaxed once they fetch on to court and they’ll plow by their pre-contrivance routines.

“That blueprint offended outbursts shall be less seemingly. If you happen to create expect any, they’re seemingly to be pre-planned due to the followers ceaselessly gas these acts.”

Why are of us are entertained by arouse?

Few things pump up a tennis crowd admire seeing a raging participant expending a total load of unfavourable energy.

Gamers fetch irritated at many things – however basically by their contain failure to lift out the shots they practise each day.

One other contrivance off is a perceived injustice by an legitimate – admire that which ended in McEnroe’s rant at some level of his Wimbledon first-spherical match against Tom Gullikson in 1981 or, more now no longer too lengthy within the past, Serena Williams’ outburst at some level of the 2018 US Start last against Naomi Osaka.

Serena Williams turn out to be docked a degree after which a game by umpire Carlos Ramos for verbal abuse within the 2018 US Start last. She turn out to be later fined $17,000 (£13,100) by the USTA

This behaviour is now no longer condoned by the tennis authorities, who can penalise the offenders competitively and financially.

But it is going to inform new eyes to the sport by providing an further ingredient of entertainment.

“Humans join very correctly to feelings and arouse – the crimson mist of losing control is something we all fetch,” says Lane, a professor of sports psychology at the College of Wolverhampton.

“So will occupy to you expect someone so elegant doing it you join carefully – and powerful of like looking out at it.”

Some avid gamers change into greater known to a magnificent wider carrying target audience for isolated outbursts barely than their on-court achievements.

For many, Argentine David Nalbandian is defined by kicking an marketing hoarding at Queen’s in 2012, injuring a line deem. Russian Mikhail Youzhny sever his headexterior-link at some level of a 2008 match after hitting himself alongside with his racquet.

Extra now no longer too lengthy within the past, clips of Czech gentle world number 1 Karolina Pliskova whacking a gap in an umpire’s chair after which-ATP Finals champion Alexander Zverev destroying a racquet at the Australian Start were broadly spread on digital platforms.

Discover about how overjoyed they’re! One fan will get Zverev’s broken racquet as a momento of her day out to Melbourne Park

Racquet smashes change into half of the entertainment. Marcos Baghdatis turn out to be egged on by a cheering Melbourne crowd when he demolished four within the distance of a minute at some level of an Australian Start defeat by Stan Wawrinka in 2012.

“It’s cramped one-admire. It’s relatable,” says Lane. “For the avid gamers, it is miles a elegant steadiness between squashing down the emotion and carrying the negative shots into the following game.

“Now not many avid gamers lose their cool at some level of a degree, they lose it at the head of a game. It’s far a strategic blueprint of refocusing.

“It tends to be a racquet shatter due to the that is the certainly element they’ll ‘blame’; they invent now no longer occupy any crew-mates to be offended with.”

How audiences are composed drawn to controversy

When McEnroe screamed ‘You would possibly perhaps well perchance’t be serious’ at umpire Edward James after disputing a line call at some level of that match against Gullikson, it turned certainly one of Wimbledon’s most fundamental moments.

It has spawned 1,000,000 punchlines, infinite impressions and turned the title of certainly one of McEnroe’s books.

The clip has got almost 1.5m YouTube views by the Wimbledon and ESPN channels within the previous 5 years.

“McEnroe turn out to be a showbusiness participant who old skool arouse as a crowd puller,” says Lane, also a manual for the Centre for Smartly being and Human Efficiency in London.

“I deem Gash Kyrgios has got somewhat that in him, even supposing he would possibly perhaps well perchance perchance moreover now no longer admit it. And due to it, of us occupy heard of him, whereas they would possibly perhaps perchance well perchance perchance moreover neutral now no longer occupy heard about avid gamers around him within the rankings.”

That is supported by the digital data gathered by sports analytics platform Hookit.

Despite by no blueprint being ranked at some level of the sphere’s top 10 nor previous a Sizable Slam quarter-last, the Australian has 2.4m followers on social media platforms.

Only 5 avid gamers within the males’s and girls’s top 10s occupy more – Rafael Nadal (39.8m), Roger Federer (35.3m), Williams (28.7m), Novak Djokovic (23.1m) and Simona Halep (3.6m).

In 2020, Kyrgios has more social engagement (more than 5.7m likes, comments, and shares) than every person within the head 10s rather then Djokovic (24.5m), Nadal (22.5m), Williams (17.2m) and Federer (14.9m).

Besides to social media, this online ardour also translates to the BBC Sport net net page and app, the establish tales provocative Kyrgios attract sizeable audiences.

The put up-match interview at Wimbledon 2019 the establish Kyrgios talked about he “desired to hit” Nadal with a shot turn out to be viewed by almost a million of us within the UK on my own, making it the acquire net page’s fourth most-read tennis fable of the fortnight.

Two months later, one other controversial incident at the Cincinnati Masters – the establish Kyrgios smashed two racquets and known as umpire Fergus Murphy a “potato” – attracted seven times the identical old series of views for a tennis video on BBC Sport.

On the assorted hand, this year’s US Start shall be with out the Australian after he withdrew from the match thanks to the coronavirus pandemic.

No doubt one of many acquire net page and app’s supreme tennis tales in fresh years turn out to be Williams wagging her finger at umpire Carlos Ramos while calling him a “liar” and a “thief” within the 2018 US Start last. The BBC Sport fable turn out to be read by more than two million of us within the UK.

The incident helped the match attract a median of three.1m television viewers within the United States, more than a 50% hike on the following day’s males’s last, and resulted in headlines and prognosis internationally from non-tennis media as well to tennis journalists.

How marketing fuels controversial moments

At Wimbledon in 1977, four years earlier than McEnroe’s inappropriate outburst, Nike founder Phil Knight turn out to be procuring for a new “horse to support” within the tennis world.

American tennis officials warned him to terminate away from McEnroe. Why? “On epic of he is a hothead,” they talked about.

Knight described in his autobiography how he “fell madly in love” with the Contemporary Yorker and signed him up the following year.

“Nike has a lengthy history of constructing personas which would possibly perhaps well perchance perchance be bigger than life, admire LeBron James, Tiger Woods and Michael Jordan,” says Kurt Badenhausen, a senior editor at Forbes journal, who specialises within the industry of sport.

“McEnroe turn out to be a wildly profitable and charismatic participant within the supreme market on this planet.

“However he turn out to be also certainly one of many supreme avid gamers of his generation thanks to the manner Nike marketed him because the negative boy of tennis.”

The hot incumbent of the role is Kyrgios, whose predominant gives encompass Nike, Yonex and Beats By Dre.

Per Hookit’s prognosis,exterior-link he has generated £310,000 of tag for brands in 2020 with completely Federer (£340,000) producing more.

“There would possibly perhaps be an argument factual now that most of the avid gamers on the males’s tour are indistinguishable to the casual fan, when you fetch previous the expansive three and Andy Murray,” says Badenhausen.

“A man admire Kyrgios stands out, he’s edgy, he’s walking that elegant line and for Nike they’ll fetch a intention that is luminous to make exercise of him.

“Of us recognise how talented he is, however how maddening he is. For Nike, if a guy admire that would possibly perhaps well perchance establish it collectively and acquire Sizable Slam titles, he is amazingly marketable.”

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