BNP PARIBAS OPEN INDIAN WELLS 2013

The BNP Paribas is a hard court tournament in sunny Indian Wells, California.

the arena

The Women's Final~

Sharapova versus Wozniacki, who will be the victor?

How did Maria win the first set? Hitting the ball EARLY, getting Caroline out of posiition, and serving strong with 4 aces in the first set.  And, not giving up: Maria was down 5-30 in the game at 5-2, and came back to win this last game for a first set 6-2.  It's tough to come back at 5-40, BUT if you get that next point, you are at 30-40, not a bad spot to be in afterall!

Tennis is a rewarding game, there are more positives than negatives built in the scoring system that allow a player to progress, even when not playing up to maximum ability.  

Let's look at the score of 5-40 some more.  When you are serving at that score, let's admit it, every player feels in a true no man's land, the game is very far away from winning!

But, somehow the clouds clear when you get that next point.  It is only one point! And suddenly, you are back in the game, you have a real chance of winning now, as long as you stay steady and give the game a chance.  This is where I think the game of tennis truly is the third person on the court.  The game has a built in system of opportunities and reward, hence perhaps the words 'advantage.'

The goal is to win, and Maria looks strong and a great player.  Physical presence is so true  to getting to teh win and challenging your self to the best you can be.

Gamble and be more aggressive, get to the net, have a bigger forehand, be aggressive when need be.

That is what I see with Maria's early hitting, not each shot is hit early, but when the opportunity presents itself, there is the EARLY shot.

Maria is clearly dominating, taking each point as quality, Maria is slamming that ball from the service line, incredible!  Wozniacki has no choice but to stand there. 

3-2, Maria leading serving now.  How not to let the mind slip at this point in the game? So many players tell me this, and I too fall victim to the wandering mind during a set, especially the second set. Maria gets her opponent out of position just a bit, then goes for the kill. Movement matters.  Forehand winner up the line for Maria.  Not too many long rallies, but Maria gets her way even then. Now 4-2.

Wozniacki serving, how to hold on? A lot of running here, then Wozniacki nets the ball. A few inches off her balance, that's all it takes!  0-15. Now 0-30. This is pressure. great serve now, go Caroline! 15-30. 15-40, here we are again. Can Caroline dig out? 30-40 now, wide shot from Maria.  Deuce! Ad In. Deuce again! These are two tough young women! Wozniacki on her knees. Ad out. Deuce. Ad In. It is hard to close.  Hits out! Wozniacki is out of position. Deuce. Ad out. Weak return. 

N.B.: when nervous, hit up middle- not happening here.  

Caroline hits out again, game Maria 5-2 now.

Maria blasts first serves. 30-0.  Has Wozniacki on the run. Again. match point now.

Closes out ' in style.' A dominant performance!  Marias's second trophy for her at Indian Wells. 6-2, 6-2.

Serves, big forehand. All went Maria's way!  Did not drop a set in this tournament. 

CONGRATULATIONS, MARIA!!

The Men's Final ~

 Raphael Nadal versus Juan Martin Del Potro today.

Rafa in bright green, Happy St. Patrick's Day! ♣

Nadal has won 21 Masters ATP titles, matching our friend Roger Federer.

I have seen Del Potro play, he is a very large, 6' 7" strong young man from Argentina.  Same country as our new Pope Francis!

Del Potro I predict will play well, but will be tired out as he had a tight match against my other favorite Djokovic. 2 hours 50 minutes yesterday. Also, Nadal is a huge champion, very tough to defeat. He is all boy, strong, temperamental, very cute!!

Okay, Del Potro just donned the green wrist bands ♣

Nadal serves for the start. 15-0. Drags del Potro out of position. Great passing shot Del Potro. 15-30. Nadal hitting side to side, but Del Potro retrieves well. He is a contender!
it's deuce.  They are hitting the ball high with topspin. Nadal hits earlier more than Del Potro. Nadal has a wide second serve, holds serve. Nadal breaks Del Potro who has the expression he wants to win but if he does not, hopefully it won't be a low score.  The ugh-oh moment in the match when as a player you know it is going to be tough out there. Period. Survival plus saving face. "A tough dig here,' the commentator says. 3-0, Nadal.

Del Potro shoots an ace.  Even one great point helps, as I said earlier here, tennis is a forgiving game, that likes to give you points and advantage. Deuce. Now Ad In. Now after cornering Nadal Del Potro hits early and down the line. Game Del Potro.  Great set up, you are in the game at 1-3.

Del Potro is playing better  now, his set up is better, earlier returns. His movement confident.

Nadal has deft little feet, they move quickly! But missed a crucial, tough shot. 0-40. Now, DP hits a great inside out forehand for a short cross court shot. Game, Del Potro!  Back on serve, too! 2-3, and serving now. You want the slight breeze coming from behind you for the bounce off the court when serving. 3-3 now, Nadal serving. 4-3.

The green umbrellas, shirts, hats, green ball kids, headbands, green Nike swoosh, and dots of green in the crowd is all so pretty, It is fun to see all these young players and fans celebrate St. Patrick.

Del Potro serving with the breeze again. 125 mph. 15-0, 30-0. 40-0. 4-4.

What is Nadal thinking now? His feet are moving in short, little steps, 0-15. Fault.  0-30, using the slice and giving the BH plenty of edge. 15-30. 15-40. Too many net shots. Nadal hits long. 4-5 now, the tables have turned for Nadal. 

Momentum shift from Nadal to Del Potro.  Serving for the set now. 49 minutes. 15-0.  30-0. Nadal nets again. 40-0. 40-5, nice down the line shot. fault. Nice cross court, lots of twisting here. 40-30. Nadal is back in the game. Opportunity. Great volleys by both, Nadal hustles but not enough, Del Potro reacts with finesse. 

Set 1 goes to Del Potro 6-4. Great fighter, a true gladiator.

Nadal serving to open the second set. Mis-fired forehands on Nadal's part. Maybe serve up the middle? Del Potro is waiting for the wide serve, a good read that one DP! Breaks Nadal!

Del Potro serving. Does he still have that breeze favoring him? 15-0. I wonder if he's tiring, though. 15-15. Move to recover from your shot, no stopping after you hit! 30-30. 30-40, Nadal has an advantage to get back on serve now. Deuce. Ad DP, wins, 2-0 now. Nadal is making a lot of unforced errors, in 'bunches' in the second set.

Nadal serving. Wins! On the board! 1-2 now.

Del Potro serving, nets a shot. faults serve, second okay. Nadal is hopping high! 15-15, now 30-15. Tough to get around this serve. 40-15. Nadal is out of his comfort zone. Ace. 3-1.

Nadal serving. 0-15. Nice rally, then Nadal gets point with a fantastic inside out forehand short cross court. 15-15. 30-15. 40-15. Nadal has to be a quick little bee out there, Del Potro has a fabulous reach and moves his feet, too!  Nadal holds. 2-3.

Del Potro serving, Is getting every point! Touch on the run! Commentator Brad Gilbert: great road work from Del Po! double fault. 15-30. Mis-fires an inside out dtl forehand. 30-30. Turnaround now? Gorgeous hold volley for DP still break point. Nadal does his genius~ 3-3 now! DP is distracted from a former point, stay in the moment!

Nadal serving, he smells blood. Dueling gladiators now. 30-0. Nadal has momentum. DP is agitated. 40-0. 40-5. Nadal wins, has the lead in the second set! 4-3.

Del Potro serving now. What happens next?? Nadal breaks DP! One double fault is punishing, the opposite of tennis reward, instead tennis punishment. 5-3.

Momentum change to Nadal!  30-0! 40-0. ACE!  What a finish!  

Set 2 goes to Nadal, 6-3.

DP is serving. 15-15 now.  I still say DP is getting tired, but his shot ability is great, to help him he needs tennis reward with an ace! Let's see. 15-30. Nadal has him running with punishing cross court shots. 15-40. 30-40, lucky on a miss-hit. Down the line shot, deuce now. Ad Del Potro. Oh no, a miss. Deuce. Misses first serve. Let. Serves wide and Nadal returns even wider + out. Ad Del Potro. great passing shot of Nadal. Deuce. Ad Nadal, 'moving like a cat.'  Del Potro breathing heavily. Deuce. Advantage Del Potro. Finally closes and holds his service game. Whew!

Nadal up for serve now. 15-0. 30-0. 40-0. ACE! *Nadal delivers when it matters.

Del Potro serving, 15-0. What a beautiful shot from Nadal, 15-15. 15-30. 15-40. Game Nadal, with a down the line inside out forehand.  2-1, Nadal.

Nadal serving.  0-15. 15-30 now. A fearsome score at 15-30 this is where tennis is tough. 30-30. Whew! Faults first serve. Safe second, 40-30. **This is where Nadal delivers~ serves hard and wide, Del Potro nets. 3-1, Nadal.

Del Potro serving, 30-0. 40-0, game with a few aces. Aces come in handy!

At 3-2, Nadal is serving now. he is perfection, so strong, dictating the ball at the baseline, then a powerful overhead to pound and put-away. 30-0 now. Nadal wants this over with now. You can see that he is resolute and closing. 40-0. Second serve. To the T, Del Potro's backhand, nets, game Nadal. 4-2.

Del Potro serves, how do you think he's doing? he is playing remarkably well, but Nadal wants to win. He is focused. Del Potro 30-0. 30-15. 40-15, now holds serve. 3-4.

Nadal serving, 2 hours 14 minutes so far. Fault. Easier second serve. Rally. 15-0. Nadal is shortening the ball and forehand down the line. Tough time at the net, great road work for Nadal, perfect passing shot.  30-0. Ace, 40-0. ***ACE to the T!  Nadal delivers when it counts!

Del Potro at serve. 0-15. 0-30. 0-40, Del Potro's legs are weakening. Great down the line shot by Nadal. 15-40.  Still in that punishing hole.  30-40. A small reward for continuing the game. evening up now. Deuce!  Ad in, Del Potro!  The tennis muses have favored you in this game! Let serve. Fault. Wow, Del Potro wins this game! great net play by both players! 

Nadal serving.at 5-4. Green shoelaces, too!  Okay, both gladiators return to the ring. Here we go. Blasts a first serve, strong rally Del Potro nets.  15-0. 15-15, tight forehand.  30-15. Nadal has a great inside out forehand shot. Fault. Serves to the middle. Rally. A challenge ball is okay at baseline. Championship point. 40-15. Rally, Del Potro returns wide.

Nadal wins!!!

He is back in the Winner's Circle!!!  Nadal is so cute, hopping in the crowd, smiling wide.  Del Potro played so well, so many momentum changes.

CONGRATULATIONS, NADAL!!!

Nadal has won 22 Masters titles now, leading the pack! Cannot wait for Roland Garros!!

AUSTRALIAN OPEN 2013 MEN'S FINAL

Many times in a match, there is that turning point, that time when the match takes a turn and relentlessly pushes forward to final conclusion. Today, at the Men's Australian Open, this phenomenon held true. 

The ultimate winner of the Australian Open is third time consecutive champion Novak Djokovic, who has won this title a total of four times~

photo courtesy of AP/Dita Alangkara

Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray played perfect, book tennis for the first two sets. Djokovic 6-7, then 7-6, both going to tiebreaker.

Early in the third set, Djokovic falls, but he returns the ball as he falls, recovers, and gets to net to drop shot for a winning point:

This is the motion and resolve of a champion.  Novak is not injured, to the contrary he is resilient. This could be the first "little" momentum swing in his direction.  Puts Andy Murray on the defensive, who would not be, observing such finesse under duress?

But then, in the absolute middle of the third set, at 3-3, something happened.  Something BIG.

I watch for this moment when the match momentum shifts.  Here, it shifted in a big way, and never looked back. Sometimes I wonder if the very real phenomenon of match momentum is the third person on the court! 

There was a 36 shot rally. Superb tennis by both players. Djokovic won the point.


After that rally, the last 2 sets Djokovic really took the match away.

The lesson here~ Not always, but if you win the big rally, midway in the match, you have a high probability of shifting the match momentum in your direction, and holding it there, too.

Djokovic wins that game, then breaks Andy next for a third set 5-3 score, and wins on his serve to take that third set at 6-3.

Murray fights back in the 4th set, but unfortunately his efforts are not enough.  Andy is visibly limping at 1-2.  Bad sign. We learn later he had a blister on his foot, really have to have the right size sneakers and proper socks!

Other observations~as soon as Djokovic sees an opening, he takes it.  He is a no nonsense player.

~Novak Djokovic is the first man to win three consecutive Australian Open titles.

At the highest of levels, it is really only 4 or 5 points that can turn a match~ Novak has a higher ace count than Murray, plus he is deemed the best returner in the game.

Congratulations, Novak Djokovic! 6-7, 7-6, 6-3, 6-2.  Game, set, match.

Full highlights of today's championship~

Tennis aficionados! This IS inspiring, get on out there, and play!!

AUSTRALIAN OPEN 2013 WOMEN'S FINAL

Two fabulous young women, one unique tennis champion!  Playing well is one thing, playing to win is another.  And, both Victoria Azarenka and Li Na did not disappoint!

So, everyone knows by now the final scores, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, Victoria Azarenka! 

source AP

Congratulations, "Vika!" Okay, how DID you do it? Victoria found her game in the second set and did not let up, even once. She found a way to get around Li Na, not so easy a feat and played with all her heart. She dug deep and did not let up, even with a few bumps along the way. Translation, mental resolve.

Here is a 6 minute highlight of the match.  See if you can pinpoint the difference in the match, when the momentum changed from Li Na to Victoria Azarenka~

And, on top of this, Li Na fell twice in this match.  Did the ankle wrap, and then seemed to play all right.  Some players wrap the ankles BEFORE the match, but I would think this approach to prevent injury would be uncomfortable. Andre Agassi would do the ankle wrap, and Serena Williams wraps her wrist (I do this too!).  

Then, Li rolled her other ankle and blacked out momentarily. Tough to be sure, this stuff happens and she said she was all right. Does it really matter if you fall in a match? Is it actually any indication you will lose if you fall? Probably not in the larger scheme of things, but more often I do see this very act as a huge red flag there will be a loss to the one who falls.  It breaks your momentum. And, I do think after the first fall is where the match momentum shifted from Li Na to Victoria Azarenka.

Watch how both players hit. Hitting early cannot be expressed enough in having the advantage.  Both players do this in rallies, so the bottom line is the one who can sustain this approach a) consistently, and b) sooner than the other player, will win the point. 

 Both women show us today how the game is played under duress and interrupted conditions (a fireworks display even, to disrupt for 10 minutes!), and also how to win.  

Both are battling for the early point, the early win. Early, early, early.

The earliest point won in the game of tennis is the serve.  You win the serve with a great shot, you win the point. You ace the serve, you win an early point! 

Both players know this, but here the scores are deceiving and actually do not tell us that  in fact during this 2 hour 40 minute match, there were 16 service breaks, with Li Na losing her service game nine times.

That means that the winner Victoria Azarenka lost her service game 7 times, enough to show  whoever breaks less is the winner. It is all that other stuff in between that gets pretty creative.

Tennis can be as punishing as it can be victorious. 

Or, in this case, the Victoria :)

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TENNIS FOCUS

Tennis match momentum, how can we recognize it and then sustain our focus during a match?  Sounds easy enough, but try this when on the tennis court and not so fast, my chickadee!! I played doubles in a match yesterday and we won the first set 6-2, but then our game broke down midway in the second set. 

So, let us take a well deserved respite from our usual routine, and figure out...

photo courtesy of theaosa.org

What happened?? 

This odd time in the middle of a match, see THE SECOND SET, is especially what I am interested in today, and hopefully I can hit a breakthrough for my next tennis match.  My partner is a very good player.  

THE FIRST SET

Physical Focus- I am strong, standing tall, with my eyes on the ball only.  I can feel my workouts have helped me immensely in my posture and strength when I hit the ball.  My stick is the Head Instinct MP which is slightly on the heavier side for regular racquet weight, 10.9 ounces, strung.  I like this weight as my serves go deep and powerful into the service box, much better than with a lighter stick. My arms and strengthened shoulders support the racquet well, so I am happy with the physicality of my presence.

Emotional Focus- Yes, any biographies you read about tennis from the best players in the world will acknowledge the emotional component of this game.  I am reading Serena William’s book On The Line right now. To give her emotional strength, she trains physically hard.  Really hard.  I know this, and am confident with my own physical training thus far, and as a result am emotionally fit for this match.

Observation Focus- 1) Our opponents are trying hard to posture against us to throw our confidence. They are firm and resolute with pressed smiles against their faces. They are tight, not fear-some as they want us to believe! I force myself not to pay attention to their presence. This is difficult for me, as I love faces and people, and it is so hard to not get pulled into another’s psyche. This very giving, curious female nature is inherent to us girls, and maybe that is the key?  Convert the challenge and have the opponent observe you and get into your psyche.  This tactic gives you the control, creates the distraction to your opponent, and gives you the edge for winning points.

 2) I see that my partner is simply on court to play her best.  She is naturally focused on the ball and physically fit.  She likes the AD Court and is happy and relaxed.  Her volleys are great.  She is pleased to play with a left-handed partner and I am in the traditional Deuce Court for the left-handed doubles player.

We take the first set 6-2 in twenty minutes.

Now for the hard part (as if the first set wasn’t hard enough!)

THE SECOND SET

Physical Focus-  I feel physically loose and pretty good, but after some time my breathing is heavier but still not too bad, I am actually pleased I am in pretty good condition, but wish I was a bit better.  My legs are good taking me to the ball.  My hand, arm and shoulder are fine. But somehow, fatigue has crept in and my timing to hit the ball is a bit altered, so my balls go out instead of in. Not that much but enough to discern me.

Emotional Focus- I am really pleased we took the first set, but am fearful our game will break down.  And it does. I wonder if we can win this match, how and why are our opponents catching up?  What are we doing wrong here that we did not do in the first set? I am serving, and forcing myself to think about the ball and the game only, but I am definitely distracted in my thoughts.  I know this is bad to think and wonder, but doubt keeps lurking into the mind anyway. What do these thoughts of mine mean?  Why doe s this “stuff” go through my head? I have to get rid of any thoughts and plow through to take the game.  Multiple deuces, then finally I serve out the game.  We do not catch up, however; instead, we ultimately lose the second set 3-6.

Observation Focus- 1) I know that my balls are going out a bit more, and am frantic to get this malfunction under control. Knowing this helped somewhat, but not enough.  Maybe it is my sneakers, I need to move better and now they do feel tight in the toe. This is not an excuse, because the proper equipment means all the difference.

2) My partner’s shots are breaking down, too. I do not know why, she is a very nice player! I am neutral to her and that seems okay with her, we do get some points but not on the crucial ones.  I know I should be helping her more by focusing better myself, but this is not working. besides, the opposition has targeted her and not hitting to me as much, they have noticed her breakdown. I am frantic. Clearly, we have both LOST FOCUS!!

RESULT- this was a timed match, and we wound up losing by one game.

REMEDIES

Physical Focus- Keep working out, stay hydrated and bring your water jug! Bring what is familiar to you, no substitutes, please!  Do more pushups to build up the shoulder area, and keep swimming for cardio strength to keep the lungs open.

Emotional Focus- Keep up the self discipline to block mental distraction, either from my own mind or on court observations-parse out what is relevant and not relevant while on the tennis court. Any negatives, roll up into a ball and toss them away!!

Observation Focus- 1) Keep my eye on the ball and nothing else.  So many pros, Monica Seles included, look to the seams of the ball to pinpoint their minds on the task at hand.  Observe the opponent weakness and capitalize. And repeat the opportunity as any opponent will not fix a weak backhand or a soft serve within a match. Capitalize on and exploit the opponent weakness. Observe and capitalize.  Why? They are doing this very same tactic against you, too! 

2) And, observe thy partner, be sure to be on your game if your partner’s game is breaking down-help her by focusing better yourself, and she will return (if somewhat) to her customary better playing.

Remember, your opponents are on court for the same reason you are- to win!!! Besides, of course, getting a great work out and having fun besides!

In my next match I will follow and use these tactics for a winning match.

And if you like to keep track of the time...

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BARCLAYS ATP WORLD TOUR FINALS 2012

I just LOVE these two tennis greats!  Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic!!!  Here they are, walking in amidst the smokey dry ice and radiant applause at the ATP Barclays Final in London, the last tournament of the tennis year 2012!! Championship match coming up, a closing for a fabulous tennis year.

Photo courtesy of prweb.com

Ah, the good old coin toss! This is an indoor, hard court surface, evening match.  Roger (world #2) will be happy.  Novak (world #1) will be ready.

It is bittersweet to end the tennis year 2012, I played a lot and learned so much.  And now, these two players as the capstone. Feds aces the first serve. I wish I could serve like Federer!

One shot after the next, wow!!! Nice! First game in under one minute.

Novak up to serve now. First serve is a fault. Now, a double fault. Hmmmm.  Feds has 6 points now. Three break points now. Woah, Federer breaks Djokovic.

The early start is critical for later success.  Whatever goes on in between can be negligible if points are strung up early.  Federer is serving great. Time for me to pay attention now. Serving and volley. No fear, gets right up to the net. I like Roger's deep blue shirt. 40-30. Game Federer. Games 3-0.

Roger is clearly attacking. Explosive shot, so quick, so angled.  Bravo, Roger!  Novak has got to get in the game here, He is such a terrific player. Okay, Novak has an advantage here. Game Novak. 1-3 now.

Okay, I will take  a writing break here, the early part of the match is over now, and now it's time for both to simply play.  This is fast playing.  Probably the quickest we will see ever in men's tennis, these two players really show what this sport is about.  

Both hit early, with anticipation, with few unforced errors if any.  Both players are in perfect physical condition.  I am going to find out their menus and put them in another posting!!

Novak breaks Federer now, catching up!!! 2-3, Novak to serve now, he wins to tie up at 3-3 now.  Feds gets next game, it is good fortune to win the coin toss here! 4-4 now, Federer serving. Deuce. Djokovic is quick to react and is varying the height of his ball now. Roger does a fist shake, attack, attack!! Deuce. Break point for Novak now.  Tennis is tough!! 7 minute game here. Deuce again.  Great serve, Roger. Novak breaks Roger, 5-4, Novak to serve now. 

Momentum has changed and it's anyone's set now. Lots of back and forth rallies here. Ad Feds. breaks for 5-5 now!!

Novak falls and rolls.  Roger is up 6-5. Novak serving, 40-30, 1 hour of play, game Djokovic! 6-6 game score, 3-2 tiebreaker score, Federer serving now. 3-3. 4-4, 5-4 Djokovic. 5-5 now. 5-6, Djokovic. 6-6, 7-6 Djokovic, now 8-6. Djokovic wins first set!

Novak opens the second set. Ad Federer now. Deuce now. Ad Novak, this is a big game for opportunity- usually the more experienced player will take it. Ad Novak. Lots of back and forth here!! Deuce again!  6 unforced errors between the two of these players. Ad Feds. Ugh, hits out, deuce. Ad Feds. Novak misses, game Federer.

Federer holds, taking advantage of the "lull" in the match, picking up points readily from Djokovic. 2-0.

Roger really keeps his focus, but Novak will not let him go!! 2-1. Roger serving, deuce now. Ace! Ace again!! 3-1.

Now 30-0, Novak just aces! 30-15 now, Pippa is here!!  40-30 now. Deuce. Ad Feds.  Deuce.
Ad Novak. Game, Novak. He looks hot. :) 2-3.

Federer double faults. Djokovic falls again! Game Feds. 4-2.

A quick game for Novak, 3-4 now.... 

Love -15. Fault.  great serve, great point set up, 15 All. Now, 30-40, break point chance for Novak. Ace! Deuce. Eighth ace of the match. Ad Feds, Fault, Deuce. Federer gets to net more.  "Sprint forward on floaters," Brad Gilbert advice. Game Feds, 5-3.

15-0, Novak serving. 30-0, Roger errors twice at net chip and charge tactic. Novak takes the game, 4-5 now.

15-0, Federer serving.  Ace. 30-15. 40-15. 40-30. Deuce! Ad out. Federer got tight. 5-5!!

Let ball, Novak serving.  Roger shanks the ball. 15-0. Ace!  30-0. 30-15. 30-30. Very unpredictable!! Fault. Whoa, 40-30 now. Let. Out, 6-5. Djokovic out in front!

Roger is serving. 0-15. 15-15. 30-15. 30-30. 30-40. 

Djokovic wins!! 

Match length: 2 Hours, 14 Minutes.

CONGRATULATIONS, NOVAK!! A champagne toast!!

Photo courtesy of telegraph.co.uk

TENNIS NIGHT WITH THE GUYS

It has been a busy week, and was asked by a men's group to play tennis during their evening contract time!  Can you believe it, me playing with the BIG BOYS?  What technique to use?? Well, no big deal since I love tennis and feel comfortable on court, especially after the amount of tennis I was fortunate to play this summer, singles and doubles. 

We had a great time!  Men have different levels of tennis play too, and this is a high level group. My hubby and his partner are definitely at Men's 4.0 level, my partner I would gauge to be at 4.5 or 5.0.  Lucky me!  

Tennis aficionados can play one of two ways, tennis with touch like John McEnroe or tennis with gusto, no holds barred and go for that shot with all your might!  Look at Andy Murray, what a player!

Photo credit EPA, Australian Open 2012

Okay, so I am prepared for this rag tag gang of sissies!!  Haha, here are our scores, 5-7, 6-2, 3-4.  We just had to give our opponents the final game :)  They whined, they cried, they slammed the balls at us and out, we laughed so hard for 90 minutes!

So different from women's tennis, here, we try too hard I think, whereas these guys hit fast balls and moved on to the next point immediately.  No big deal. If they won the point, fine, if not, so what. They live in the moment, and let the game and their inherent skill set dictate their match destiny. 

They don't interfere like women on court.  I know this will rile some, but try this switch up yourself and you will see what I mean. Women get really intense, we pick up all sorts of subtle cues and distractions, whereas the guys simply play the game.

And my partner?  He was gracious if I hit a ball out, and nodded wisely when I won a point.  He could pick up the ball low on the court, and get to net just waiting to put the ball away in the one spot the opponents were not. With ease. No big deal. This is a great player.

And when it was over, I asked if they could put me on their sub list!!  Who knows, maybe this will be a new thing for me?  And if not, we all had a great time and I certainly learned a lot.

As for any on court makeup?  I do like to look my best, it was at the end of the day, 8 PM, so I simply used a dry lip pencil (that would not have ugly stains on my water bottle), and to set the color I lined and then smoothed and blended with the Touche Eclat pen-brush in 01 Luminous Radiance:

Touche Eclat at Nordstrom

So, I had color that lasted through a tough 90 minutes of some of the best tennis I have had in a long time and I will certainly do it again (if they ask!!).

Enjoy, stay loose and stand tall!!

US OPEN 2012 MEN'S FINAL

For all you tennis girls, here 's a match for YOU!

Take a trip to the US Open and hop on the bandwagon for the highs and lows of classic match momentum in this final.

Here we go~

Men's US Open tennis final, can you believe the swing in match momentum here?  Such superb playing, either Murray or Djokovic could win.  Each forcing the other to go for outlandish returns, and then making them!  Who will take the trophy tonight?

First set was incredible, I did not tune in till the tiebreaker, thinking the match would be at least half over.  Both tennis players looked like true gladiators, and we the Roman spectators.  See Djokovic's grace, see Murray's resolve:

Photo credit by Associated Press

 Andy takes the first set after one hour and twenty-seven minutes at tiebreak 12-10. The wind has not been Djokovic's friend here, Andy Murray works the wind forces so much better. But Andy does tend to tire, while Novak wrestles with the wind.

Fifth set, Andy is serving great, imagine the stamina! Four hours and forty-one minutes, wow!  Murray leads at 4-2, Djokovic serving now to hold. Novak may be cramping, fitness is a HUGE part of tennis at these levels. Uh-oh, 15-40. He breaks.

Andy Murray is serving for the championship!

These two players are truly the perfect combination of supreme fitness combined with the perfect beauty the game of tennis offers. But alas, the price of beauty, Novak needs a physical trainer for his legs. Andy is hopping around like he is just starting!  What a warrior!

He's serving now, goes for a backhand overhead at net.  Has anyone tried this shot?   Not easy! 30-0 now.  Almost five hours before any physical discomfort here really.  Now the going gets rough. Now 40-0.  Everyone is standing!! Now quiet. 40-15. Djokovic hits long. 6-2.

Game, set, match, Andy Murray!!  His first Grand Slam!!  CONGRATULATIONS!!

Photo credit by Reuters

Makes history- this final equals the longest tennis match ever played at US Open, today 4 hours and 54 minutes. Here's a really great article on the match, pre and post: http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/sep/11/andy-murray-british-us-open?newsfeed=true

                                     

US OPEN 2012 WOMEN'S FINAL

These 2012 US Open tennis players are so fit, I am so pleased at what they show us we can do! A simple post today on effort.  Two equal players, V. Azarenka versus S. Williams, what a pair!  Look in their eyes, both are focused on the win, Commentator Johnny Mac says both players need to dig in deeper, dig in harder since each opponent is so fierce. 

Flushing Meadows, New York
Photo credit from www.newyorksightseeingtours.wordpress.com

I think when the fitness is the same, then it is the mental aspect of the game that takes over. Serena takes first set 6-2.

 Now, Azarenka is deliberate, S. Williams in second set is defensive. Crowd energy helps!

Both use legs on the serve, I wish I could do more of that, although I do try! If my timing is a bit off, then I will jump as I hit the ball. Focusing on kinetic chain is a lot to think of, and throws me off.  So, just jump, I can do that. Victoria has such fine, clean lines to her shots. Azarenka lets go and plays the shot, she is a warrior, not showing any sign of fatigue or distress.  She's down one set, leading in the second. Now she's talking to herself.  Is that a good idea?  When I try that it throws me, also if I split step before a shot it can off-put me as well.  I guess you have to find your own rhythm and not think too much!  But, some tennis basics are worthwhile to know, there is benefit to having rules, because that is what works!

Azarenka gets the second break for set two, her feet are light with tiny little steps. She is pumped!!  Serena is a worthy opponent, she will not make it easy for Victoria to get around her.  Early leads are a huge help.  Serena hit two aces in a row!  Watch her legs as she serves, I'll practice that tomorrow and think of Serena!!

Intensity and movement not as alert as in second set, let's see what the third set brings for Ms. Williams.  It has been 17 years since a US Open women's championship has gone to three sets.  Azarenka is tightening up on the serve, tough to play well when the finish line is so close.  Okay, Azarenka's got the second set. 6-2.

Third set:  Serena is really acing. Her tenth for this match, first game third set. Serena's service game will serve her well! Uh- oh, Azarenka may be broken here! Nope, deuce now. Serena goes for the lines, then the smash.  Good tactic!  Every seat is taken here. Azarenka places the ball in deep corner, Serena is wrong footed, Azarenka approaches the net then places overhead away from Serena.  That's how you play singles. 

These two players are so evenly matched.

You have to play the ball, not have the ball play you, said by commentator Mary Carillo.  Eleven aces now, Serena.  Azarenka corners Serena again, then a drop shot from the net.  Serena needs her focus back.

Serena throws a defensive lob, tthen Azarenka returns, Serena gets it and wrong foots  Azarenka. Serena may break back here! She does!! 2-2.

Ace number 13 for Serena. 3-2. Azarenka holds her serve, 3-3 now.

Serena's having a tough time recovering after her great serves. Triple break point. Now 4-3, Azarenka!

15-15 all.  Every point counts. 15-30, now 30-30.  30-40.  These are tough points, Azarenka got tight.  Uh oh, a tough line shot.  Azarenka gets lucky back to deuce, now has the Ad. Now wins the game with a volley down the line. 5-3.

Serena now serving to stay in the match. She's flatfooted- remember footwork!! 30-30.  Where are the aces? 40-30 now.  Now game to Serena. 5-4.

Azarenka serves for the championship. 0-15. 0-30. 0-40, Never taste a win before you have it. 15-40. Whew! Oh no!  Serena breaks back!! 5-5.

Wow, such great tennis here! Serena is a powerhouse! 15-0. 30-0.  Did she ht that ball twice? Ok, Azarenka has soft hands and angles for a win. 30-15. 40-15. Serena holds. 6-5.

Now 0-15 Azarenka serving.  15-15.  This is so intense!  30-15 now.  Both these ladies are true champions.  1985 last US Open tiebreaker if we go to that.  30-30. 40-30. Uh-oh. Deuce! Ad Azarenka. Deuce again.  Ad out, match point S. Williams.  Azarenka returns the ball long, out! 7-5.

Game, set, match Serena Williams! Congratulations for a huge, well deserved win!! 

Photo credit by AFP

Serena's Racquet, and here's the link: http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/Wilson_BLX_Blade_Team/descpageRCWILSON-WBXBTE.html:

Wilson BLX Blade Team Racquet 

US OPEN 2012

Welcome to the 2012

 

 The US Open is rough, rowdy, complex and eventful!

It is so great to have these games back once again this time of year! 

Hi! I am watching Maria Sharapova in the US Open women's third round tennis match against Nadia Petrova. Amazing how Maria has come back in the second set to tie from 0-4 to 4-4. 

There is always hope!  Maria took that ball and kept it back in the lines, one shot at a time!  Twelve winners off the forehand, certainly Maria's shot! 

Nadia Petrova is playing great tonight, taking chances coming in to the net and it is paying off for her. Petrova is not going to give away the set, she's going to make it hard for Maria. She's a lean machine. Okay, both players are back on serve, Maria at serve 4-5 now.  It's so hard to play when you're down points or games, so tempting to play safe, which is truly sudden death in a match.  

Maria showed how to come back, and now it's business as usual to see who is the dominant player. You have to try to forget the past and play your present game.  Maria's serving and slamming the ball like mad, keeping it in the lines but not enough. Great winner by Petrova, time for a third set!

Whoa, over three hours, and just starting the third set!  This is  a very tough match.  Petrova is wrong footing Maria.  Now it's raining.  

Everything is Nike with Maria's clothing and sneakers.  Really like her dress, form fitting, slightly pleated skirt. Anthracite/University Gold.The back is really pretty with the gold accent lines:

Please see Nike link for more details!  

Maria's Back Court Night Tennis Dress

I LOVE the Nike "SWOOSH!" logo!!!

More rain delay!!

Congratulations to Andy Roddick, great match today, against Italian Fabio Fognini, both worthy opponents!  Andy, the crowd and the US Open love you, Fabio, we will see more of you!! See LA Times story for this match's details.

A quote of Roger Federer I really like, "Champions know that every court they walk onto will be difficult."  

Take nothing for granted, take no prisoners, be respectful of the sport and your opponent.

Maria is using her Head Instinct tennis racquet, it really keeps the ball under control, I know! 

 Here it is:

Head Youtek Ig Instinct Mp Tennis Racquet 4_3/8

Okay, Petrova and Sharapova are back, it's a very tight match here. 

Maria likes to face the wall after a point is played.  A fist pump, perhaps a pep talk? "Keep fighting," she said later as advice form her dad. 

A packed stadium, Maria down 0-2, breaks Petrova, wins on her serve.

Maria is next up a break and serving powerfully, still a double fault, and now to lead at 5-3, a game away. At these levels, both players are clearly going for the lines. At 5-4, Maria serving for the match now. She's tight. She's serving great again. She's got it!!

Game, set and match. Sharapova.  ☀

For MORE play by play commentary on the US Open final matches, please see my post US OPEN 2012 WOMEN'S FINALS,

AND for the men~ US OPEN 2012 MEN'S FINAL.