Djokovic stands in a league of his own

Djokovic-2013aussie

Written by Tom Kelly  @tom_tk_kelly After a period of brief reflection on an Australian Open final which saw Novak Djokovic become the first man in the Open era to win three consecutive titles down under, one begins to comprehend the remarkable performance that occurred. Andy Murray, by far the second best defender currently playing in the Men’s game (behind Djokovic of course), was blown … [Read more...]

Resurgence of the unlikely lads of the ATP Tour

Tommy Haas

By James Crabtree Now we all know the Big 4 shared the spoils when it came to the slams. And we also know that the same Big 4, to date, shared amongst themselves the bigger ATP 1000 events. So greedy… Nevertheless, some unlikely names managed an emergence or in some instances an older guy experienced an impressive resurgence. Either way credit is due for those who triumphed at some of the … [Read more...]

Marinko Matosevic: The forgotten Aussie

Bosnian-born Australian Marinko Matosevic has risen from outside the top 200 at year's start, to inside the top 50 next week.

By James Crabtree Australia’s Marinko Matosevic started the year at ranked 203. He is now placed within the top 50. Sadly, the new Australian number one is not a household name. Now this is not the moment to stress out and point the finger. And don’t blame Bernard Tomic and call him a disappointment, decide he needs a new coach, tell him he needs a new game plan, advise him to shape up … [Read more...]

What did we learn from the tennis “Asian Swing” this fall?

Andy Murray

By James Crabtree Roundup from Asian Swing! Before you get excited about all the Euro indoor events it is time to reflect and appreciate what just happened back East… Far East! Yes, it has been a very busy few weeks. Lucky number seven? - The ATP 250’s, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur A French affair featured in the Bangkok final where Richard Gasquet collected his seventh career title … [Read more...]

Prepare To Go Petkorazzi

andrea-petkovic-of-germany

By Lewis Davies I love women's tennis a copious amount but this season feels like it's been missing something. Because, while 2012 could be considered the year of the comeback, there have also been a few names going backward instead. Kim Clijsters' swansong season has been blighted by injury, Agnes Szavay has only just returned to the tour herself and Rebecca Marino has completely … [Read more...]

Canada and Rogers Cup, minus Roger…

Novak Djokovic

by James A. Crabtree Usually this is Canada’s time in the sun but the rain and the London Olympics have certainly stolen a considerable chunk of the limelight. There is still much to ponder. It is still an ATP 1000 event and it still has some big names in attendance. The well respected Canadian Open is usually one of the most favoured U.S. Open warm-up tournaments. It is one of the … [Read more...]

Sweet 16

Andy Murray

by James A. Crabtree Roger Federer's trophy cabinet is full. It has everything required to be considered the greatest of all time. Still, years from now when Federer grabs a duster to bring an extra shine to his various silverware surely he grumbles at the missed opportunity. There are not too many lists where both Rafael Nadal and Andre Agassi sit atop the mighty Swiss. Sheer volume, … [Read more...]

Olympics Bracket Extravaganza!

Olympic rings

By James A. Crabtree So the very disappointing and confusing Opening Ceremony is over. No wonder the Queen didn’t manage a smile. Anyway, it’s official let the Games begin. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLxcyO0AX04 Especially the tennis. And there are some great match-ups on the horizon. Some players will be glad they stuck around after Wimbledon, others will wish they jumped ship … [Read more...]

Superstitions, Rituals, Habits and a little OCD

Nadal and his habits

By James A. Crabtree Imagine watching teletubbies every day for two weeks. This would be a pretty hard task for anybody above the age of three unless, of course, you are Goran Ivanisevic on the way to your 2001 Wimbledon title and it is all part of your ritual. Add facial hair growth to a list that includes not walking on the lines, eating the same meals daily and always requesting the same … [Read more...]

Top 10 moments of Roger Federer’s career

roger-federer-01

By Lisa-Marie Burrows Roger Federer is one of the most famous sportsmen on the planet.  He is never seen in the papers due to scandal but only for his superb, outstanding achievements during his astonishing career. In fact, his career has been so prosperous that it is possible to run out of superlatives to describe his talent and the many records he has made and broken over the years. This … [Read more...]

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