The 2008 French Open did not disapoint even if the finals for both men and women lacked the drama and intensity of the 2008 Australian Open. Both Nadal and Ivanovich dominated their adversaries. Nadal's thumping of Federer was surprising in so much that I can never recall seeing a match where Federer lost 6-0 in a set. It is worth mentioning that with Nadal's victory, he ties Bjorn Borg's record of 4 consecutive wins at the French Open and barring any illness or injury it looks like a 5th consecutive win is likely in 2009 - Amazing. Unfortunately, American's had a disapointing showing at the 2008 French Open with only Rob Ginepri really showing any promise. By contrast, the French (all too often absent from their home tournament) showed in great numbers even with Australian Open finalist Tsonga out due to a knee injury. Indeed one of my favorite matches came in the semifinals when Gael Monfils gave Roger Federer a run for his money. I'll continue to keep my eyes on Monfils who seems to cover the court with the same speed that distinguishes Nadal. Now if he can just learn to hit the ball like Rafael.
Now all eyes will turn to Wimbledon, a surface more friendly to Federer. However, both Nadal and Djokovic will be worthy adversaries looking to unseat Federer, and for the first time in recent memory, it looks distinctly possible that they just might. We will have to wait and see when the tournament begins in a few weeks time. Until then, I'll continue to dream about travelling to visit and watch the fortnight of world-class tennis in person as opposed to on ESPN.
No comments:
Post a Comment