The New Year is always a special time, and this time around, more than ever. A recurring personality in these posts is my wife, The Jess, and 2008 was a most challenging year for her, for me, and for us as a couple. If you look in the archives there is a writing vacuum from late January into April, and the astute observer will note in the sidebar "Why The Jess Is Cool" the one notation that's in all capital letters.
We pushed through a tough stretch together and I've never been more proud of anyone or anything in my life than I am of her. We've both worked hard to keep some balance and brightness in our lives as some dark energy pushed against us, and we've been pretty successful. I'm grateful and happy that this space was a large part of my cognitive recreation and creativity, which I'm sure is evinced by the nearly 200 posts I wrote in just over 8 months.
This blog has served as an effective relaxation and mental escape technique over the past year, and I'm sure it will remain so, but hopefully without a sense of urgency or anxiety driving the work. And what a lot of work we've done! When I started blogging, I wondered what themes would develop within the subjects that draw my interest, and over the course of 2008, there were some most engaging threads developed.
The American Civil War rose far to the front here, and I'm incredibly happy and proud of our ongoing study of The Lost Cause mythology and our collective memory of the ACW. There are some fantastic blogs out there that I discovered over the course of the year that share this focus (Cenantua's Blog being right at the top of the heap), which has made the journey that much richer.
There is no shortage of controversy and emotion in this subject matter, and we've tackled a quite a few provocative issues. When you begin challenging long-established perceptions and beloved folklore, you're gonna stir up some emotions. I believe that this is important work and I'm glad that a visceral chord is struck here from time to time.
Though my reading list is chock-a-block with Civil War material, and the majority of posts here do cover this topic, no small amount of attention has been paid to the importance of a tasty beverage. Between roasting my own coffee and inventing drinks filled with black apricot, basil, cantaloupe, and cachaca, The Jess and I have not gone thirsty this year.
We also haven't been short of drama on the tennis court, whether I'm out grinding with Simon the Great or watching and writing about the four Grand Slams. Nothing comes anywhere close to the fun that I had writing about the surging rivalry between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, and no sporting event I've ever seen can even approach the sheer brilliance and stunning drama of their clash in the Wimbledon final this year.
So what's been my favorite post of the year? There are a few that I'm quite pleased with, several that have attracted some attention and comment, and a few that will quench a powerful thirst. None of them has the appeal that writing about my cousin Guy's journey to a world championship held for me. I was a sportswriter before I went to grad school, and it's a pursuit that I love and missed, up until this event happened. It was also an incredibly dramatic moment amidst a year that was well-drenched in sporting achievements.
The thrill of this occasion and the sheer joy we all felt seeing my cousin pull over this amazing feat will always be special to me for these reasons and one more. That moment helped break through a pall in my life and was the jump-off point for a tremendous source of recreation and fun for me. That April 21st post was my first in several months and stands up as a powerful symbol for me.
I look forward to moving into 2009 and anticipate another rich year of subject matter to write about. Before we make that transition, I would like to give a word of thanks to those who have spent a few moments reading my prose. This is a public place and I'm grateful to anyone who should happen by and spend some time here. I hope to see you again many times in a healthy and happy 2009!
Showing posts with label Wimbledon 2008. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Wimbledon 2008. Show all posts
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Reflections On The Greatest Sporting Event Ever
Frequently in the sporting world, not to mention news in general, once a notable event has concluded and the appropriate articles written, we in our short attention-span-having splendor do what comes naturally. We move on to new issues.
By yesterday morning, ESPN and CNNSI had dropped the Nadal-Federer epic final from their respective front pages completely. The only mention of Nadal was that he had pulled out of this week's Stuttgart tourney. You had to search into the website to find the substantive summaries and editorials. Just like that, a once in a lifetime event begins to slip from our consciousness.
That, my friends, is something that I'm just not okay with; I believe this match does demand a bit more reflection, because we may never see its equal in our lifetimes. I don't; however, wish to rehash the match shot for shot (though I don't think it will ever be deleted from my DVR) or discuss player statistics.
The impact of this match was larger than any of that, and I'm not the only one who feels that way. On "Pardon The Interruption" yesterday, a show that notoriously relegates tennis to the back bench, the first 4 minutes of the program were spent discussing what transpired at the All England the day before. More than that, the discussion was not a loud bashing of Federer or elevation of Nadal. No, it was a discussion about just how huge this classic was in the sporting pantheon and whether it will bring about a tennis renaissance in America.
On ESPN Classic, the match was re-aired yesterday as an "Instant Classic". That is the billing usually reserved for Super Bowls, college sports or MLB playoff games. Again, there is a most satisfying tenor of recognition of what happened; that we need to see it again and again to believe it.
In the world of tennis writing, of course this match is still on everyone's tongues and keyboards. The good thing is we are starting to see some interesting reflection, photos, and video compilations as the size and structure of the battle is dissected. With months to go before the US Open, this will certainly continue to dominate the conversation of the tennis fan and cogniscenti alike.
The greatest and most unique recognition I've seen thus far came from the NY Times. Yesterday there were two stories about the match, coverage usually reserved for Super Bowls and World Series'. Clearly a good start, but today was the exclamation point. For the first time I can recall in the 5 years I've been getting the Times online, there was an editorial about sports. It wasn't the Giants winning the Super Bowl, or the travails of the Yankees, it was Rafa and Roger.
Certainly, this classic will be on all of the year-end "best of" lists, but I am certain that it will, over time, transcend those labels. This contest will become a magnum opus for us to reminisce about, re-watch, read and write about. This was history unfolding in front of us and the sporting public is clearly not ready to let it go.
Of course time will move on and ardor will cool, but when the 2008 Wimbledon final between Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer finds its way onto bookshelves and into all-time highlight reels, it will always be our privilege to remember when we were witnesses to sporting history.
By yesterday morning, ESPN and CNNSI had dropped the Nadal-Federer epic final from their respective front pages completely. The only mention of Nadal was that he had pulled out of this week's Stuttgart tourney. You had to search into the website to find the substantive summaries and editorials. Just like that, a once in a lifetime event begins to slip from our consciousness.
That, my friends, is something that I'm just not okay with; I believe this match does demand a bit more reflection, because we may never see its equal in our lifetimes. I don't; however, wish to rehash the match shot for shot (though I don't think it will ever be deleted from my DVR) or discuss player statistics.
The impact of this match was larger than any of that, and I'm not the only one who feels that way. On "Pardon The Interruption" yesterday, a show that notoriously relegates tennis to the back bench, the first 4 minutes of the program were spent discussing what transpired at the All England the day before. More than that, the discussion was not a loud bashing of Federer or elevation of Nadal. No, it was a discussion about just how huge this classic was in the sporting pantheon and whether it will bring about a tennis renaissance in America.
On ESPN Classic, the match was re-aired yesterday as an "Instant Classic". That is the billing usually reserved for Super Bowls, college sports or MLB playoff games. Again, there is a most satisfying tenor of recognition of what happened; that we need to see it again and again to believe it.
In the world of tennis writing, of course this match is still on everyone's tongues and keyboards. The good thing is we are starting to see some interesting reflection, photos, and video compilations as the size and structure of the battle is dissected. With months to go before the US Open, this will certainly continue to dominate the conversation of the tennis fan and cogniscenti alike.
The greatest and most unique recognition I've seen thus far came from the NY Times. Yesterday there were two stories about the match, coverage usually reserved for Super Bowls and World Series'. Clearly a good start, but today was the exclamation point. For the first time I can recall in the 5 years I've been getting the Times online, there was an editorial about sports. It wasn't the Giants winning the Super Bowl, or the travails of the Yankees, it was Rafa and Roger.
Certainly, this classic will be on all of the year-end "best of" lists, but I am certain that it will, over time, transcend those labels. This contest will become a magnum opus for us to reminisce about, re-watch, read and write about. This was history unfolding in front of us and the sporting public is clearly not ready to let it go.
Of course time will move on and ardor will cool, but when the 2008 Wimbledon final between Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer finds its way onto bookshelves and into all-time highlight reels, it will always be our privilege to remember when we were witnesses to sporting history.
Monday, July 7, 2008
The Greatest Sporting Event Ever
There is no comparison. No metaphor, no debate, no polls.
What happened yesterday in the men's singles final between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal was the most stunning athletic display I have ever seen. From the slow buildup over the past few years, accelerating this summer into yesterday's cataclysmic 5 hour collision, the tennis world and the way I watch sports will never be the same.
The spectacle was so huge, the competition so intense, the level of play so high, the ramifications so far reaching; it is going to take some time for everything to really sink in.
This was 5 sets of the most spectacular drama: jaw-dropping shotmaking, incredible speed, unbreakable fitness, opportunities missed, and in the end, immortality seized.
This is not just about Rafa winning Wimbledon for the first time or Federer losing another Grand Slam, this is about two men with the highest level of respect for each other putting everything on the line in fair competition. This is the closest our society will ever come to bloodsport, because neither of these men will ever fully regain all that they gave yesterday.
This was also one of the rare moments where sport became high art, because the exertions of both competitors under the most grueling conditions with so very much at stake was truly beautiful to behold. The surreal nature of the match's climax added the perfect accent, the sun setting in a clear sky, darkness rolling in. Transition.
And a transition is just what we saw. The passing of the torch, or trophy, as it were, as Federer turned over a title he had held for half a decade to a man who had proved himself worthy on every level.
It took every ounce of will, heart, fitness and talent from both men to get to that spot. There were 2 rain delays to work through. Each had to deal with tremendous opportunities wasted (Federer up 4-2 and serving in the second set, Rafa serving at 5-2 in the 4th set tiebreaker and double-faulting) They had to deliver their very best punches at the biggest moments, and take the hardest blows of the other.
Federer had to find a way to overcome the near-complete neutralizing of his backhand as an offensive weapon, and he rode a huge serve and the greatest forehand in the history of the game right to the precipice of victory. Ironically, it was the forehand that let him down in the final moment as he became Wimbledon runner-up for the first time.
For Rafa, it was steeling nerves that were clearly rubbed raw in the fourth set tiebreaker, and managing to grind through in the end. His unbelievable speed turned danger into offense again and again. From court positions that made me shudder, Nadal would blast crosscourt backhands and forehands down the line, would transition from defeat to victory.
They went back and forth, asking everything of themselves and their opponent, and we just had to hold on for the ride. My heart was pounding, my breathing was fast, I had to pee but I couldn't break away. I watched history write itself, I saw the stuff of books, of legends, of people saying "remember that final?" I was thousands of miles away from the action, yet felt privileged to be a part of it.
I held on with everyone else as these two slugged it out on equal footing, and saw that just as the victor was far from inevitable, so was the idea that the match might finish before sunset. There are no lights at Wimbledon, so the idea that we might have to wait until today for a finish became quite real.
With only moments to go before play would be suspended by darkness, Nadal cracked Federer's serve for only the 4th time, then took the match onto his own racket. As if to show us just how far he's come, that he deserved to be Wimbledon champ, Nadal served and volleyed at 0-15, then hit another volley winner at 15-all.
Rafa closed out his masterpiece 5 set triumph by dropping to the ground amidst the roaring crowd, then rose to meet the man he had vanquished at the net. The interaction there was telling, because both have the utmost appreciation and respect for what the other went through and was feeling.
For Rafa, he was higher than he has ever been, higher even than Spanish royalty, who had to reach up to shake his hand as he climbed through the stands. For Federer, the devastation and loss he felt was clear, as the same tears he shed last year in victory welled up again in defeat. As he spoke with John McEnroe, the interview had to be cut short as the emotion cut across his face.
When the two warriors met again to receive their trophies, their conduct towards each other, towards the fans, and the game itself left me feeling proud to be a tennis player and unending fan of these two men. They spoke respectfully of each other and still showed how much the moment meant to them in both victory and defeat.
As Federer and Nadal turned to face the crowd in the gathering darkness, we beheld the passing of the championship and saw this contest supersede anything that had come before. In the final transition, night became day as the lights from thousands of flashbulbs drenched the men in a molten, surreal glow. The perfect final touch; because suddenly, there were lights at Centre Court illuminating the greatest that sports can offer.
What happened yesterday in the men's singles final between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal was the most stunning athletic display I have ever seen. From the slow buildup over the past few years, accelerating this summer into yesterday's cataclysmic 5 hour collision, the tennis world and the way I watch sports will never be the same.
The spectacle was so huge, the competition so intense, the level of play so high, the ramifications so far reaching; it is going to take some time for everything to really sink in.
This was 5 sets of the most spectacular drama: jaw-dropping shotmaking, incredible speed, unbreakable fitness, opportunities missed, and in the end, immortality seized.
This is not just about Rafa winning Wimbledon for the first time or Federer losing another Grand Slam, this is about two men with the highest level of respect for each other putting everything on the line in fair competition. This is the closest our society will ever come to bloodsport, because neither of these men will ever fully regain all that they gave yesterday.
This was also one of the rare moments where sport became high art, because the exertions of both competitors under the most grueling conditions with so very much at stake was truly beautiful to behold. The surreal nature of the match's climax added the perfect accent, the sun setting in a clear sky, darkness rolling in. Transition.
And a transition is just what we saw. The passing of the torch, or trophy, as it were, as Federer turned over a title he had held for half a decade to a man who had proved himself worthy on every level.
It took every ounce of will, heart, fitness and talent from both men to get to that spot. There were 2 rain delays to work through. Each had to deal with tremendous opportunities wasted (Federer up 4-2 and serving in the second set, Rafa serving at 5-2 in the 4th set tiebreaker and double-faulting) They had to deliver their very best punches at the biggest moments, and take the hardest blows of the other.
Federer had to find a way to overcome the near-complete neutralizing of his backhand as an offensive weapon, and he rode a huge serve and the greatest forehand in the history of the game right to the precipice of victory. Ironically, it was the forehand that let him down in the final moment as he became Wimbledon runner-up for the first time.
For Rafa, it was steeling nerves that were clearly rubbed raw in the fourth set tiebreaker, and managing to grind through in the end. His unbelievable speed turned danger into offense again and again. From court positions that made me shudder, Nadal would blast crosscourt backhands and forehands down the line, would transition from defeat to victory.
They went back and forth, asking everything of themselves and their opponent, and we just had to hold on for the ride. My heart was pounding, my breathing was fast, I had to pee but I couldn't break away. I watched history write itself, I saw the stuff of books, of legends, of people saying "remember that final?" I was thousands of miles away from the action, yet felt privileged to be a part of it.
I held on with everyone else as these two slugged it out on equal footing, and saw that just as the victor was far from inevitable, so was the idea that the match might finish before sunset. There are no lights at Wimbledon, so the idea that we might have to wait until today for a finish became quite real.
With only moments to go before play would be suspended by darkness, Nadal cracked Federer's serve for only the 4th time, then took the match onto his own racket. As if to show us just how far he's come, that he deserved to be Wimbledon champ, Nadal served and volleyed at 0-15, then hit another volley winner at 15-all.
Rafa closed out his masterpiece 5 set triumph by dropping to the ground amidst the roaring crowd, then rose to meet the man he had vanquished at the net. The interaction there was telling, because both have the utmost appreciation and respect for what the other went through and was feeling.
For Rafa, he was higher than he has ever been, higher even than Spanish royalty, who had to reach up to shake his hand as he climbed through the stands. For Federer, the devastation and loss he felt was clear, as the same tears he shed last year in victory welled up again in defeat. As he spoke with John McEnroe, the interview had to be cut short as the emotion cut across his face.
When the two warriors met again to receive their trophies, their conduct towards each other, towards the fans, and the game itself left me feeling proud to be a tennis player and unending fan of these two men. They spoke respectfully of each other and still showed how much the moment meant to them in both victory and defeat.
As Federer and Nadal turned to face the crowd in the gathering darkness, we beheld the passing of the championship and saw this contest supersede anything that had come before. In the final transition, night became day as the lights from thousands of flashbulbs drenched the men in a molten, surreal glow. The perfect final touch; because suddenly, there were lights at Centre Court illuminating the greatest that sports can offer.
Friday, July 4, 2008
Wimbledon Approaches Its Zenith
Both finals are set, and both are packed with drama and anticipation. On the women's side, it's gonna be Williams vs Williams for the title tomorrow morning. They've met many times before in Grand Slam finals, six to be exact, and the only question before each match is will both women play their best tennis. I'm not implying they hold back when they play each other, I can only imagine how difficult it would be to compete against a sibling for such an important championship. It's always nice when the championship provides a fitting crown to a tournament packed full of incredible tennis, so I'm ready for a serious slugfest between the two most talented female tennis players in the world.
The men's side features a matchup that is more highly anticipated than any tennis matchup since the Borg-McEnroe battles 20+ years ago. Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal will do battle Sunday morning for the championship after both cruised through their semifinal match.
I like to think I have a good sense of history, and Sunday morning will be history unfolding before our very eyes. This summer of tennis will have books written about it as these two titans set a new standard for the game.
I'm looking forward to the competition, the skill, the energy, the moment. There is so much at stake for these two superstars and we as fans get to sit back and soak it up.
The men's side features a matchup that is more highly anticipated than any tennis matchup since the Borg-McEnroe battles 20+ years ago. Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal will do battle Sunday morning for the championship after both cruised through their semifinal match.
I like to think I have a good sense of history, and Sunday morning will be history unfolding before our very eyes. This summer of tennis will have books written about it as these two titans set a new standard for the game.
I'm looking forward to the competition, the skill, the energy, the moment. There is so much at stake for these two superstars and we as fans get to sit back and soak it up.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Andy Murray Nickname Contest
With regards to our contest to assign the best nickname possible to this guy...
-enter as many times as you like
-I will post entries as they come in (keep it relatively clean, if you please)
-the winner will receive a bag of fresh-roasted coffee from the Tipsy Historian
-for more material/inspiration regarding our target, er, subject, click here
-enter as many times as you like
-I will post entries as they come in (keep it relatively clean, if you please)
-the winner will receive a bag of fresh-roasted coffee from the Tipsy Historian
-for more material/inspiration regarding our target, er, subject, click here
Wimbledon Semifinal Roster Almost Complete (This Post With Bonus Feature!)
Oooh boy are the Williams sisters just making a mockery of Wimbledon or what? Both stormed into the semifinals of the singles draw yesterday and today, they joined forces to advance to the semis of the doubles as well. What makes this so special is that frequently when a player in the singles draw who even deigns to play doubles advances in singles, they will often default in doubles to conserve strength.
Evidently, Serena and Venus have strength to spare as they close in on what is looking inevitably like an all-Williams, all the time Wimbledon. They are really in rare air here, I don't believe that a doubles team (let alone a winning doubles team) has been made up of both singles finalists. History in the making, and we all know how I feel about history...
Speaking of history, Roger Federer made a bit more of that today by advancing to his 17th straight Grand Slam singles semifinal. To put this in perspective, this means he has gotten into the final weekend of every Slam for more than 4 solid years! Hard to think of a comparison, because there really isn't one..
In the other major news of the day, Captain Bicep himself, Andy Murray took on Rafael Nadal in another quarterfinal showdown. Would the newest Bowflex posterboy have the flex to down the man with battleaxe arms?
No.
Murray spent the better part of the morning picking up shards of his ego as Nadal showed what true tennis muscle looks like in a short and sweet three set victory. Best part of the coverage of this drubbing? Turns out the grassy hillside upon which Wimbledon fans can watch matches on the big screen, previously known as "Henman Hill" in honor of Tim Henman is now known as "Murray's Mound" Anyway, I'm sure we'll be hearing more about the Scrawny Scot in a few months at the US Open. In the meanwhile, the Andy Murray nickname contest starts now, so submit your nickname and be recognized!
BONUS FEATURE
check out this fantastic link: tennis players dressed up as their favorite Olympic sport! I liked Jonathan Erlich and Andy Ram from Israel as judo artists
Evidently, Serena and Venus have strength to spare as they close in on what is looking inevitably like an all-Williams, all the time Wimbledon. They are really in rare air here, I don't believe that a doubles team (let alone a winning doubles team) has been made up of both singles finalists. History in the making, and we all know how I feel about history...
Speaking of history, Roger Federer made a bit more of that today by advancing to his 17th straight Grand Slam singles semifinal. To put this in perspective, this means he has gotten into the final weekend of every Slam for more than 4 solid years! Hard to think of a comparison, because there really isn't one..
In the other major news of the day, Captain Bicep himself, Andy Murray took on Rafael Nadal in another quarterfinal showdown. Would the newest Bowflex posterboy have the flex to down the man with battleaxe arms?
No.
Murray spent the better part of the morning picking up shards of his ego as Nadal showed what true tennis muscle looks like in a short and sweet three set victory. Best part of the coverage of this drubbing? Turns out the grassy hillside upon which Wimbledon fans can watch matches on the big screen, previously known as "Henman Hill" in honor of Tim Henman is now known as "Murray's Mound" Anyway, I'm sure we'll be hearing more about the Scrawny Scot in a few months at the US Open. In the meanwhile, the Andy Murray nickname contest starts now, so submit your nickname and be recognized!
BONUS FEATURE
check out this fantastic link: tennis players dressed up as their favorite Olympic sport! I liked Jonathan Erlich and Andy Ram from Israel as judo artists
Monday, June 30, 2008
Flex 'Em If You Got 'Em, I Suppose
Andy, oh Andy, why do you make it so hard to like you? Today's Richard Gasquet vs Andy Murray match will certainly join the pantheon of classic Wimbledon battles, what with the 5 set thriller, the 2 sets to love deficit overcome by Murray as the sun went down (no lights at Wimbledon), and some brilliant shotmaking by the pale Scot to make it all happen. With the entire tennis world looking proudly on, what did you choose to do, Andy? Did you run to the net to respectfully shake hands with your vanquished foe, did you smile and wave to the fans who had screamed their brains out for you?
No. You pulled up the right sleeve of your shirt, flexed your bicep, and pointed at it. No dear readers, I'm not kidding, he actually did this. When I told The Jess about this stunt she declared "I would have hit him on the head with my racket!" When she saw it herself on Sportscenter, she covered her mouth in shock while I chuckled.
The Brits are stuck with you as their solitary hope for any sort of tennis glory, but by God, I'll always think you're a clown. It's a shame too, because you are an amazingly creative and speedy player with tremendous skill. Unfortunately, you have, to paraphrase Crash Davis from Bull Durham "a million dollar game and a ten cent head".
Now, in what should have been a proud moment for you, you look like the tool that you are. Soon, you're going to see some real biceps when you face Rafa Nadal in the quarters on Wednesday. Best of luck, stringbean.
The women's draw continued its descent into almost total anarchy today as Jelena Jankovic and Svetlana Kuznetsova both lost, making this the first Grand Slam in the Open Era (40 years) where none of the top 4 seeds make the quarterfinals. Were it not for Venus and Serena Williams continuing their respective runs towards the finals, this Wimbledon would look like tennis' equivalent of the 2nd Law of Thermodynamics (no links for you, you must find the answer yourself, grasshoppa).
Tomorrow is where another unique feature of Wimbledon picks up: all the women's quarterfinals are played in one day, with the men on Wed. The tourney continues in this staggered fashion through to the finals. I love this approach, each gender gets the limelight for a day.
The tournament hits high gear now, so you should update yourself on the draws and schedule of play at wimbledon.com
No. You pulled up the right sleeve of your shirt, flexed your bicep, and pointed at it. No dear readers, I'm not kidding, he actually did this. When I told The Jess about this stunt she declared "I would have hit him on the head with my racket!" When she saw it herself on Sportscenter, she covered her mouth in shock while I chuckled.
The Brits are stuck with you as their solitary hope for any sort of tennis glory, but by God, I'll always think you're a clown. It's a shame too, because you are an amazingly creative and speedy player with tremendous skill. Unfortunately, you have, to paraphrase Crash Davis from Bull Durham "a million dollar game and a ten cent head".
Now, in what should have been a proud moment for you, you look like the tool that you are. Soon, you're going to see some real biceps when you face Rafa Nadal in the quarters on Wednesday. Best of luck, stringbean.
The women's draw continued its descent into almost total anarchy today as Jelena Jankovic and Svetlana Kuznetsova both lost, making this the first Grand Slam in the Open Era (40 years) where none of the top 4 seeds make the quarterfinals. Were it not for Venus and Serena Williams continuing their respective runs towards the finals, this Wimbledon would look like tennis' equivalent of the 2nd Law of Thermodynamics (no links for you, you must find the answer yourself, grasshoppa).
Tomorrow is where another unique feature of Wimbledon picks up: all the women's quarterfinals are played in one day, with the men on Wed. The tourney continues in this staggered fashion through to the finals. I love this approach, each gender gets the limelight for a day.
The tournament hits high gear now, so you should update yourself on the draws and schedule of play at wimbledon.com
Sunday, June 29, 2008
First Week Wimbledon Wrap-Up
A Few Notable Highlights and Lowlights:
-Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer playing really high-level tennis
-no American men in the second week for the first time since 1926
-upsets all over the women's draw
-Israeli woman Shahar Pe'er advancing to the 4th round with a win over Dinara Safina
-Rafa's blog
-the Wimbledon wind
-The Jess' alter ego Janko Tipsarevic advancing to the 4th round
-Bethanie Mattek emerging as a player with some skill as opposed to just goofy outfits
A Few Things To Look Out For In The Second Week
-two of the most hated personalities in the men's game squaring off in round 4: Andy Murray and Richard Gasquet
-Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer's march towards the final
-another Grand Slam for a Williams sister
-a treasure trove of sporstcaster gaffes trying to pronounce the names of the women left in the draw
-the resurgent Marat Safin finally melting down in epic fashion
A Few Words About Justin Gimelstob (because that's all he deserves)
Former ATP player and current Tennis Channel commentator Justin Gimelstob (who also went to UCLA) spewed out one of the most repellent and disgraceful interviews I've ever heard on June 18th on the radio in Washington D.C. I'm not comfortable transcribing what he said here, but I will provide a link.
I knew Justin at UCLA and, though I'm shocked by his comments, I'm not at all surprised. In response, I called Tennis Channel and spoke to the director of programming, who forwarded the link to her CEO. There has been some fallout, which you can read about here and here.
On a lighter note, play resumes tomorrow morning, with Federer facing former champ Lleyton Hewitt and Nadal facing Mikhael Youzhney, who beat Rafa at the US Open and beat his own head in a few months ago. Also look for Mattek and Serena Williams squaring off later in the day.
Lastly, some words from Tom Friedman of the NY Times.
-Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer playing really high-level tennis
-no American men in the second week for the first time since 1926
-upsets all over the women's draw
-Israeli woman Shahar Pe'er advancing to the 4th round with a win over Dinara Safina
-Rafa's blog
-the Wimbledon wind
-The Jess' alter ego Janko Tipsarevic advancing to the 4th round
-Bethanie Mattek emerging as a player with some skill as opposed to just goofy outfits
A Few Things To Look Out For In The Second Week
-two of the most hated personalities in the men's game squaring off in round 4: Andy Murray and Richard Gasquet
-Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer's march towards the final
-another Grand Slam for a Williams sister
-a treasure trove of sporstcaster gaffes trying to pronounce the names of the women left in the draw
-the resurgent Marat Safin finally melting down in epic fashion
A Few Words About Justin Gimelstob (because that's all he deserves)
Former ATP player and current Tennis Channel commentator Justin Gimelstob (who also went to UCLA) spewed out one of the most repellent and disgraceful interviews I've ever heard on June 18th on the radio in Washington D.C. I'm not comfortable transcribing what he said here, but I will provide a link.
I knew Justin at UCLA and, though I'm shocked by his comments, I'm not at all surprised. In response, I called Tennis Channel and spoke to the director of programming, who forwarded the link to her CEO. There has been some fallout, which you can read about here and here.
On a lighter note, play resumes tomorrow morning, with Federer facing former champ Lleyton Hewitt and Nadal facing Mikhael Youzhney, who beat Rafa at the US Open and beat his own head in a few months ago. Also look for Mattek and Serena Williams squaring off later in the day.
Lastly, some words from Tom Friedman of the NY Times.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Two Days of Wimbledon in 3 Acts, Act 3: The Jess in the Third Round
So if you recall in Act One, we discussed Janko Tipsarevic, the man who dispatched Andy Roddick. What few, if any people know, is that that person is actually the beloved wife of the Tipsy Historian, and here's why.
When The Jess and I first started dating, I noticed and she explained how she had an interesting and often surprising propensity to fall down. After a few tumbles and many laughs, I gave her the moniker of "Tipsy Jessie", which stuck pretty well.
Anyway, a few years later, here comes this lanky Serbian cat who starts rising up the rankings and getting himself of TV quite a bit. This coincided with The Jess' rising interest in the sport, and suddenly, we'd found her doppelganger (gender aside, of course).
Glasses? Check. Tattoos? Yup (even though Jess has one tattoo, she told me yesterday that if she were a professional tennis player "I'd have tons of tattoos!" That girl is so cool.) Cerebral approach to the game? Done.
And the name, well it was just so easy to turn Tipsy Jessie into Tipsarevic, so now anytime he's competing, I give her updates along the lines of "you just beat Andy Roddick" or "you're on ESPN tomorrow night playing Roger Federer"
So after yesterday's win, my wife is in the third round of Wimbledon, and believe me, I'll be watching!
When The Jess and I first started dating, I noticed and she explained how she had an interesting and often surprising propensity to fall down. After a few tumbles and many laughs, I gave her the moniker of "Tipsy Jessie", which stuck pretty well.
Anyway, a few years later, here comes this lanky Serbian cat who starts rising up the rankings and getting himself of TV quite a bit. This coincided with The Jess' rising interest in the sport, and suddenly, we'd found her doppelganger (gender aside, of course).
Glasses? Check. Tattoos? Yup (even though Jess has one tattoo, she told me yesterday that if she were a professional tennis player "I'd have tons of tattoos!" That girl is so cool.) Cerebral approach to the game? Done.
And the name, well it was just so easy to turn Tipsy Jessie into Tipsarevic, so now anytime he's competing, I give her updates along the lines of "you just beat Andy Roddick" or "you're on ESPN tomorrow night playing Roger Federer"
So after yesterday's win, my wife is in the third round of Wimbledon, and believe me, I'll be watching!
Two Days of Wimbledon in 3 Acts, Act 2: The Ladies Crapshoot
If you don't like upsets, the women's draw is an absolute disaster. If you're a Scrabble enthusiast, it is a word and name festival!
On the first issue: Sharapova, out. Ivanovic, out. An interesting take by SI's Jon Wertheim today about how both women skipped all of the Wimbledon warmup events, then got blown out early. Lots more depth on the women's side, lots of hungry, fit, talented ladies coming out of the woodwork staking their claims. Clearly the halcyon days where Navratilova, Evert, Graf, Seles et al could coast early then turn it on in the second week of the Grand Slam are gone.
Now it's all about who got the biggest game, the fittest legs, and the stones to fight it out for two full weeks. Believe me, these upsets and the hoard of tough new female players, while irritating now (remember, I picked Sharapova to win) is going to be a boon for the health of the game.
On the second issue, here are some of the names left in the tournament:
KUDRYAVTSEVA, TANASUGARN, WOZNIAKI, RADWANSKA (who beat
PAVLYUCHENKOVA in the third round), and CHAKVETADZE.
Right now, sportswriters and broadcasters alike are mourning the fall of the Berlin Wall and the advancement of sports in former Eastern Bloc countries, because these names are just polysyllabic explosions! I didn't even bother trying to type them, just went with the ol' cut and paste. I may be Tipsy, but I'm not crazy.
On the first issue: Sharapova, out. Ivanovic, out. An interesting take by SI's Jon Wertheim today about how both women skipped all of the Wimbledon warmup events, then got blown out early. Lots more depth on the women's side, lots of hungry, fit, talented ladies coming out of the woodwork staking their claims. Clearly the halcyon days where Navratilova, Evert, Graf, Seles et al could coast early then turn it on in the second week of the Grand Slam are gone.
Now it's all about who got the biggest game, the fittest legs, and the stones to fight it out for two full weeks. Believe me, these upsets and the hoard of tough new female players, while irritating now (remember, I picked Sharapova to win) is going to be a boon for the health of the game.
On the second issue, here are some of the names left in the tournament:
KUDRYAVTSEVA, TANASUGARN, WOZNIAKI, RADWANSKA (who beat
PAVLYUCHENKOVA in the third round), and CHAKVETADZE.
Right now, sportswriters and broadcasters alike are mourning the fall of the Berlin Wall and the advancement of sports in former Eastern Bloc countries, because these names are just polysyllabic explosions! I didn't even bother trying to type them, just went with the ol' cut and paste. I may be Tipsy, but I'm not crazy.
Two Days of Wimbledon in 3 Acts, Act One: Americans, Go Home!
I am shocked, agog, and irritated at the comprehensive flop of the American men in the Wimbledon singles draw. What a revolting display this has been, five days of hearing Chris Myers say "...and American (fill in name) went down today" in a way that clearly shows he's not surprised, we shouldn't be surprised, and things are probably going to get worse in the future. Seriously, when Bobby Reynolds is your best (and last) shot to get into the 4th round, you know you're in trouble.
Chief amongst these heartless villains is James Blake, who ran out to a 2 sets-to-one lead against journeyman Rainier Schuettler, then decided to pack up his backbone, put away his heart, and lose in 5 sets.
Honestly, I'm just sick of this guy giving away matches! If it's not this one, it's losing in the finals at Delray Beach to a tour rookie. Or losing your first 20 million five set matches. All the shots, great personality, a true gentleman, and no idea what it takes to close people out.
Every time I hear his say "too good" when an opponent hits a winner, I want to scream at him! That behavior is nice on the practice court, or for me in recreational matches, but it kills me that he just acquiesces like this.
I want to root for him, I love his game, his personal story is incredibly dramatic, but I'm done. Until he shows the killer instinct needed to do all of his wonderful talent and personality justice, I'm just done. No more cheering, no more J-block, no more expecting greatness. I'm finished with James Blake.
Andy Roddick is another tricky one, after bringing his huge serve and big expectations he went down in 4 sets to Janko Tipsarevic (more on him in Act 3 in the second round.
Before I could load both barrels and let fly; however, he gave these comments in his post-match press conference, which you can read here. This guy clearly has a great sense of his own game and that of the people around him. I love his candor, his honesty, and his recognition of his capabilities. I also thoroughly appreciate and believe his intention to keep looking for that next level to help him get back into the front row (great metaphor Andy!)
Lots of other upsets, and some interesting men moving towards the second week with a fascinating mix of old (Safin, Hewitt) names and new (Ancic, Wawrinka) England's forlorn hope Andy Murray is still alive and plays his third rounder tomorrow, as does Rafa, whose blog is just a treat
Chief amongst these heartless villains is James Blake, who ran out to a 2 sets-to-one lead against journeyman Rainier Schuettler, then decided to pack up his backbone, put away his heart, and lose in 5 sets.
Honestly, I'm just sick of this guy giving away matches! If it's not this one, it's losing in the finals at Delray Beach to a tour rookie. Or losing your first 20 million five set matches. All the shots, great personality, a true gentleman, and no idea what it takes to close people out.
Every time I hear his say "too good" when an opponent hits a winner, I want to scream at him! That behavior is nice on the practice court, or for me in recreational matches, but it kills me that he just acquiesces like this.
I want to root for him, I love his game, his personal story is incredibly dramatic, but I'm done. Until he shows the killer instinct needed to do all of his wonderful talent and personality justice, I'm just done. No more cheering, no more J-block, no more expecting greatness. I'm finished with James Blake.
Andy Roddick is another tricky one, after bringing his huge serve and big expectations he went down in 4 sets to Janko Tipsarevic (more on him in Act 3 in the second round.
Before I could load both barrels and let fly; however, he gave these comments in his post-match press conference, which you can read here. This guy clearly has a great sense of his own game and that of the people around him. I love his candor, his honesty, and his recognition of his capabilities. I also thoroughly appreciate and believe his intention to keep looking for that next level to help him get back into the front row (great metaphor Andy!)
Lots of other upsets, and some interesting men moving towards the second week with a fascinating mix of old (Safin, Hewitt) names and new (Ancic, Wawrinka) England's forlorn hope Andy Murray is still alive and plays his third rounder tomorrow, as does Rafa, whose blog is just a treat
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Wimbledon Early Rounds: Djokovic Get His Comeuppance
Fresh off the presses, fresh off the court, and fresh out of excuses. Novak Djokovic, he of the big game and bigger mouth, got blown off the court today by former number one Marat Safin. There is a delicious irony here, not only because Djokovic spent the run-up to Wimbledon spouting off at the mouth about Roger Federer's supposed irony, but also that the man who beat him is actually the gold standard in tennis space cadet-land, Marat Safin. Djokovic was literally blown away)(and figuratively; gusty winds today at the All-English) by the former number one, and now needs to spend some quality time figuring out what he wants to be known for; his inarguably huge talent, or his ridiculously big mouth.
After a ghastly start, American men are slowly pulling themselves together. Andy Roddick and James Blake are into the second round, and journeyman Bobby Reynolds just pushed into the third round of a Grand Slam for only the second time in his career. The player whose performance is the most concerning; however, is Sam Querrey. After washing out in the first round against Juan Carlos Ferrero, there are some serious questions about the direction his career is heading. This guy's got a game tailor made for grass; big serve and heavy groundstrokes. The thing that he's missing is a bit more intangible, he doesn't seem to have the commitment or desire to be great. Sadly, he sometimes will publicly admit this.
Nadal and Federer both are looking incredibly sharp, Federer's actually on court right now in the second round and is disposing of Robin Soderling, and Nadal plays his second round match tomorrow. Best early finding though is Rafa's blog on The Times website. Definitely check it out and add it to your blogroll, it's just a blast. Dude is in the middle of a huge tourney, and all he can talk about is Spain in the Eurocup semis.
On the women's side, top seed Ana Ivanovic just squeaked by Natalie Dechy today, winning 10-8 in the third set (remember at Wimbledon, there are no tiebreakers in final sets). She actually faced a match point in the second set, but managed to right the ship. The Williams sisters both look to be in good form early on. Serena just got off the court after winning her second round match, and Venus looked very solid yesterday. In the same vein, Maria Sharapova's first serve was clicking yesterday, and if that keeps up, she is going to be very tough to beat.
Remember, you can keep up with everything going on at wimbledon.com. Also check out ESPN 2 each morning for early round coverage.
After a ghastly start, American men are slowly pulling themselves together. Andy Roddick and James Blake are into the second round, and journeyman Bobby Reynolds just pushed into the third round of a Grand Slam for only the second time in his career. The player whose performance is the most concerning; however, is Sam Querrey. After washing out in the first round against Juan Carlos Ferrero, there are some serious questions about the direction his career is heading. This guy's got a game tailor made for grass; big serve and heavy groundstrokes. The thing that he's missing is a bit more intangible, he doesn't seem to have the commitment or desire to be great. Sadly, he sometimes will publicly admit this.
Nadal and Federer both are looking incredibly sharp, Federer's actually on court right now in the second round and is disposing of Robin Soderling, and Nadal plays his second round match tomorrow. Best early finding though is Rafa's blog on The Times website. Definitely check it out and add it to your blogroll, it's just a blast. Dude is in the middle of a huge tourney, and all he can talk about is Spain in the Eurocup semis.
On the women's side, top seed Ana Ivanovic just squeaked by Natalie Dechy today, winning 10-8 in the third set (remember at Wimbledon, there are no tiebreakers in final sets). She actually faced a match point in the second set, but managed to right the ship. The Williams sisters both look to be in good form early on. Serena just got off the court after winning her second round match, and Venus looked very solid yesterday. In the same vein, Maria Sharapova's first serve was clicking yesterday, and if that keeps up, she is going to be very tough to beat.
Remember, you can keep up with everything going on at wimbledon.com. Also check out ESPN 2 each morning for early round coverage.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
The Championships, Wimbledon 2008: Previewing the Men and Women
This Monday will mark the beginning of the biggest celebration on grass east of Humboldt County, so we must all get our strawberries and cream, scones, and Pimm's Cup ready, as Wimbledon is upon us! Rest easy, your TV viewing schedule is right here, so keep it handy.
The Women's draw coming into the tourney remains as wide open as ever, with the usual cast of suspects looking to make deep runs. The one woman who reliably plays well at Wimbledon is defending champ Venus Williams; however, this year she is decidedly not on form. Likewise her sister Serena, who is having as enigmatic a year as ever. While she is always a tempting choice to make a run on any surface, I'm picking her to wash out somewhere before the quarterfinal.
French Open finalist Dinara Safina seems to still have huge momentum in the grass court season, as she got to the final of the Ordina warmup. The woman who bested her in Paris, Ana Ivanovic, is riding a huge wave of confidence and support, but will be wearing the biggest bullseye of her life as the new number one in the world. You read it here that she won't be up to the task this year. Which leaves us with Maria Sharapova. Sure it may look like a safe, even boring choice, but she does seem to thrive on grass and consistently has shown more heart and has more big match experience than most women on tour. Wimbledon always come down to those with the biggest stones (right Jana Novotna?) and Maria will be the one to rise to the occasion this year.
On the men's side, all eyes are focused on the defending champion 5 YEARS RUNNING Roger Federer and the surging Spaniard Rafael Nadal. Just like in Paris, this is the final we all want to see; will Roger claim a record 6th straight Wimbledon, or will Rafa advance his claim on the number one spot in the world?
In Rafa's corner are two items; first is his grass court confidence built both at Wimbledon last year in his classic final against Federer and this year's Artois, where he beat Novak Djokovic in the final. As covered above, you can't put a price on confidence. Or on a big serve, which is without peer as a weapon on grass and is where Nadal has made the biggest strides in his game.
For Federer, there are also two things that make him a grass-court player without parallel; his completely chock-full and unmatched toolbox of attacking options and the attitude that comes with having 5 championships next to your name.
Of course there's plenty of dudes that could make impressive runs, and no one has more riding on his ability to do so than Novak Djokovic. After spending the past few weeks shooting his mouth off about how Fed might be losing his confidence, he's going to get his shot at Roger in the semis. Lose that match, or lose early in the tournament, and Djokovic will start looking more and more like the tennis equivalent of Rory Sabbatini.
Speaking of big mouths, too bad England's best hope of ever having a Wimbledon champ again spends more time running his yap than winning matches. Don't ever ask me to root for Andy Murray, because it just won't happen. Especially in his first round match, where he will face one of the most entertaining players out there, Fabrice Santoro, who is playing in his final Wimby.
Another big mouth, but in a much more clever and entertaining way, is Andy Roddick. Coming off a sore shoulder that kept him out of the French, look for Roddick to ride his massive serve deep into the tournament.
There will of course be more storylines, and ever-growing attention on Nadal and Federer as they head towards an epic collision in the finals. Take it to the bank, Federer will quiet the skeptics and doubters en route to a 6th straight Wimbledon title.
Want another preview? Click here for more.
The Women's draw coming into the tourney remains as wide open as ever, with the usual cast of suspects looking to make deep runs. The one woman who reliably plays well at Wimbledon is defending champ Venus Williams; however, this year she is decidedly not on form. Likewise her sister Serena, who is having as enigmatic a year as ever. While she is always a tempting choice to make a run on any surface, I'm picking her to wash out somewhere before the quarterfinal.
French Open finalist Dinara Safina seems to still have huge momentum in the grass court season, as she got to the final of the Ordina warmup. The woman who bested her in Paris, Ana Ivanovic, is riding a huge wave of confidence and support, but will be wearing the biggest bullseye of her life as the new number one in the world. You read it here that she won't be up to the task this year. Which leaves us with Maria Sharapova. Sure it may look like a safe, even boring choice, but she does seem to thrive on grass and consistently has shown more heart and has more big match experience than most women on tour. Wimbledon always come down to those with the biggest stones (right Jana Novotna?) and Maria will be the one to rise to the occasion this year.
On the men's side, all eyes are focused on the defending champion 5 YEARS RUNNING Roger Federer and the surging Spaniard Rafael Nadal. Just like in Paris, this is the final we all want to see; will Roger claim a record 6th straight Wimbledon, or will Rafa advance his claim on the number one spot in the world?
In Rafa's corner are two items; first is his grass court confidence built both at Wimbledon last year in his classic final against Federer and this year's Artois, where he beat Novak Djokovic in the final. As covered above, you can't put a price on confidence. Or on a big serve, which is without peer as a weapon on grass and is where Nadal has made the biggest strides in his game.
For Federer, there are also two things that make him a grass-court player without parallel; his completely chock-full and unmatched toolbox of attacking options and the attitude that comes with having 5 championships next to your name.
Of course there's plenty of dudes that could make impressive runs, and no one has more riding on his ability to do so than Novak Djokovic. After spending the past few weeks shooting his mouth off about how Fed might be losing his confidence, he's going to get his shot at Roger in the semis. Lose that match, or lose early in the tournament, and Djokovic will start looking more and more like the tennis equivalent of Rory Sabbatini.
Speaking of big mouths, too bad England's best hope of ever having a Wimbledon champ again spends more time running his yap than winning matches. Don't ever ask me to root for Andy Murray, because it just won't happen. Especially in his first round match, where he will face one of the most entertaining players out there, Fabrice Santoro, who is playing in his final Wimby.
Another big mouth, but in a much more clever and entertaining way, is Andy Roddick. Coming off a sore shoulder that kept him out of the French, look for Roddick to ride his massive serve deep into the tournament.
There will of course be more storylines, and ever-growing attention on Nadal and Federer as they head towards an epic collision in the finals. Take it to the bank, Federer will quiet the skeptics and doubters en route to a 6th straight Wimbledon title.
Want another preview? Click here for more.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Wimbledon Poll, Speak Now or...
Alright friends, we are three days away from the beginning of The Championship, Wimbledon 2008 at the All-England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. Rest assured, there will be previews and thoughts abounding over the weekend, but until then, I've added a new feature: a poll question.
If you look on the right of my blog where the sidebar is, and scroll to the bottom, you'll find our first two poll questions: who will win the Men's and Women's Singles title at Wimbledon this year. You've got three days to vote, so make your opinion known!
If you look on the right of my blog where the sidebar is, and scroll to the bottom, you'll find our first two poll questions: who will win the Men's and Women's Singles title at Wimbledon this year. You've got three days to vote, so make your opinion known!
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