*does happy dance*
Nadal vs. Nishikori today was just amazing. Both played really well, Nadal with his usual array of eye-popping passing shots, smart aggressive play, and never-say-die attitude. But I was particularly impressed by the 18-year old Japanese kid, because he was so unflappable despite the gravity of the situation, and his game is just such a delight to watch. One to keep an eye out for at Wimbledon, if he qualifies for it.
Also watched Gulbis-Murray in more or less its entirety, and good tennis from both of them. Gulbis, again, very composed despite Murray taking multiple medical timeouts, probably warranted considering the number of falls he took in the treacherously slippery conditions that had forced Mardy Fish to retire from an ankle sprain earlier after a closely fought first set against Roddick. However, the young Latvian did lose his composure after a loose game cost him a break at the business end of the deciding set. Still needs to work on his consistency, but Gulbis is definitely a real talent. Feel that Murray deserved the win though for keeping his focus (not too many foul-mouthed rants today). Anyway, the tournament organizers at Queen's must be rejoicing, because this is tomorrow's lineup:
CENTRE COURT (start 12:30 PM)
(1) R. Nadal (ESP) v (8) I. Karlovic (CRO)
(3) A. Roddick (USA) v (6) A. Murray (GBR)
(11) L. Hewitt (AUS) v (2) N. Djokovic (SRB)
(5) R. Gasquet (FRA) v (4) D. Nalbandian (ARG)
Unbelievable. So many exciting possibilities. I'll probably skip Nadal-Karlovic, which looks to be a serve-fest, but all three of the other matches look superbly tantalizing. I fear for my exam preparation.
Also watched Gulbis-Murray in more or less its entirety, and good tennis from both of them. Gulbis, again, very composed despite Murray taking multiple medical timeouts, probably warranted considering the number of falls he took in the treacherously slippery conditions that had forced Mardy Fish to retire from an ankle sprain earlier after a closely fought first set against Roddick. However, the young Latvian did lose his composure after a loose game cost him a break at the business end of the deciding set. Still needs to work on his consistency, but Gulbis is definitely a real talent. Feel that Murray deserved the win though for keeping his focus (not too many foul-mouthed rants today). Anyway, the tournament organizers at Queen's must be rejoicing, because this is tomorrow's lineup:
CENTRE COURT (start 12:30 PM)
(1) R. Nadal (ESP) v (8) I. Karlovic (CRO)
(3) A. Roddick (USA) v (6) A. Murray (GBR)
(11) L. Hewitt (AUS) v (2) N. Djokovic (SRB)
(5) R. Gasquet (FRA) v (4) D. Nalbandian (ARG)
Unbelievable. So many exciting possibilities. I'll probably skip Nadal-Karlovic, which looks to be a serve-fest, but all three of the other matches look superbly tantalizing. I fear for my exam preparation.