Monday, January 5, 2009

Federer and Nadal Launch 2009 ATP World Tour

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal (sorry, I still spell Federer before Nadal) helped launch the 2009 ATP World Tour in spectacular fashion last Sun in a unique game of tennis aboard a traditional Arabian Dhow in Doha Bay (reminds me of first such attempt by ATP in Dubai at Burj Al Arab Hotel with Federer and Agassi playing them on a helipad). These two have taken the game of tennis to new heights in the last few years in terms of everything including skills, stamina, temperament and not-to-forget, sportsmanship. The prospect of them fighting over another year for the 2009 crown is salivating to say the least. Only Andy Murray, as shown by him in the second half of the season last year, with his incredible hands and feel, can pose serious challenge. Novak Djokovic may be ranked 3rd but will have to work even harder than last year, to defend his Australian Open title. There was a huge gulf between Federer / Nadal and the rest till 2007). 2008 saw Djokovic and Murray bridge it with reasonable success. It will be interesting to see who can step up in 2009; although I don't see any of the remaining top 10 players from 2008 do it.

Like any other tennis fan, the scheduling of years first Grand Slam Australian Open intrigues me. While it helps jump-start the year after a month and half's break with it being scheduled barely into the third week of the year, it leaves you wishing that there was a more gradual build up to it. May be Indian Wells and Key Biscayne can be played a little earlier as a build up to it and the Grand Slam be played under slightly cooler skies. But in terms of the quality of tennis and popularity amongst the players, Australian Open is catching up every year and is now looked forward to almost as much as other Grand Slams.

Personally, my wish from the year would be Federer defeating Nadal at the French Open equaling Sampras's record; and again at Wimbledon - breaking the record; employing more aggressive net play! His graceful game, spotless sportsmanship, statesmanlike interviews often make you wish for a lot – and often fulfill!

PS: Regarding women's game – who cares?! With the departure of Martina Hingis, and now Justin Henin, the game has become just way too much one-dimensional. Ball banging baseline rallies are likely to rule the year – with scant respect for grace, touch or feel!

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