Retirement was a big theme in today's press room with Safin and Santoro both playing their final slam matches. In typical Safin fashion, he played one brilliant set then succumbed to Melzer in four sets. If you have time, check out his post match press conference. It’s brilliant reminder on why we’ll miss him. Hats off to Santoro for putting on a great show on court 11 against a resurgent JCF; the Magician’s on court brilliance will never be forgotten and forever missed. Who else can say that their favorite play is to play a drop-shot on the return of serve?
Speaking of retirement, Amelie Mauresmo may have also played her last slam match of her career. Forever the enigma, she didn’t even show up to play against Wozniak. A dismal performance like that will make retirement all that more appealing. We have to see the 2 time slam champ fizzle out in the 2nd round but retirement is defiantly on the horizon.
Our match of the day pick between Nadal and Gasquet fizzled. Nadal showed up pumped and ready to win while Gasquet showed up scared and confused. We had all hoped that the time away from the game would light a fire belly but it seemed to have snuffed out the flame.
Few interesting matchups today:
Blake vs. Rochus
Blake has been off the radar for sometime but he usually plays well at the US Open. His big hitting should get him through this match against the speedy Rochus.
Which Safina will show up to play today?
Someone should really talk to her coach about exuding some positive energy while he sits in her box. His negative body language is really bringing her down and getting inside her head. She’s her own worst enemy out on the court. Someone please give her a stress ball during the changeovers.
Dementieva vs. Oudin
On paper this is should be a pretty good match up for Dementieva but Oudin is playing some good tennis and she seems to have no trouble performing on the big stage. Look for at least one tight set.