LIVE from the French Open
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Our tennis writers Greg Garber and Bonnie D. Ford will drop by each day during the tournament to take your questions and give you all the latest news and notes straight from the courts!
Send your questions now and check back to see what Garber and Ford have to say every day of the tournament!
Click on below to go to that day's chat:
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Greg Garber (12:05 PM)
Greetings, tennis fans. Greg Garber here for a Memorial Day chat live from Paris at the French Open. It's been an eventful day already. Rafael nadal, the top seed, looked leg-weary in a straight-sets win, Roger Federer looked a little better in his first-round match. Venus Williams won, as did Maria Sharapova. Andy Roddick, laying right now, just won his second set against French wildcard Romain Jouan. Send me your questions ASAP and let's get on with it....
mike (camp hill, pa
do you think serena will make it to the final in paris or will she get "injured" in the early rounds?
Greg Garber (12:11 PM)
Hey, Mike, thanks for chiming in. Serena was the last American to win here in Paris, but that was 2002 -- a generaton ago in athletic terms. That said, neither she nor her sister Venus seem likely to win the title here -- this year, or any other. They will be 29 and 28 at the end of the year and clay is the surface tha reards their skills the least. Seena's fitness has been questioned. And she's struggled so far this season on clay, She retired from her match aginst Francesca Schiavone in Madrid, trailing by a set, because of a right knee injury. This is the same right knee that has dogged her in recent years, which culd be problematic sliding around on the red clay here, starting on Tuesday.
MW (NY)
Is Gael Monfils healthy enough to beat Rafa or roger?
MW (NY)
Where is Donald Young and John Isner? Have their games regressed?
Greg Garber (12:15 PM)
M (or) W: Izzy actually won the USTA's mini-tournament that had a wildcard into the French Open as first prize -- and then he came down with mononucleosis. The USTA kicked it back to the French Federation and Isner is home convalescing. Young? His game has been uner the weather, too. For those waiting for him to become the Next Big Thing in America, well, the wait - and the oppressive weight of expectation -- continues.
marc (indianapolis, in) [via mobile]
will rafa win more than 15 slams?
Greg Garber (12:18 PM)
Marc, good to hear from you. This is my new favorite game. How many will rafa win? After stealing one from Fedrerer last year at Wimbledon, he's in decent shape to threaten Sampras' 14. He's still only 22 (turns 23 next week) and has already won six majors -- on three different surfaces. I did this math recently with Ivan Lendl and we came up with a range from 12 to 16. Really. Be fun to watch for the next five years or so.
Alane (Pittsfield, MA)
Yo, me and my friend think Sharapova will win the whole dang thing. Do you?
Greg Garber (12:23 PM)
Alane: You are dreaming, my friend. While Maria DID reach the semifinals here in 2007 -- in retrospect, a magnificent acheivement for some one who is 6-foot-2 and doesn;t move well on clay -- she is just here to get in shape for Wimbedon.She lost the first set , 6-3, to Anastasiya Yakimova and came back to win in three sets. She's got No. 11 seed Nadia Petrova in the second round and Kaia Kanepi (the No. 19 seed) if she makes it to the third. That's tough sledding, eh?
Steven (NJ)
Which american male will go the farthest this year?
Greg Garber (12:25 PM)
Steven: Probably NOT Robby Ginepri, who last year was TLAS, the last American Standing. He's down two sets right now to Spain's Pablo Andujar, but up a break in the third. Roddick, based on recent form, has to be the favorite to go a few rounds. Won't take much to be TLAS....
Lori (Vegas)
Long time reader, first time writer, Greg. I see you have a new mug on your page. You are getting more handsome by the day. Au revoir, sugar.
Greg Garber (12:26 PM)
Lori: Nice of you to notice. The old mug was the Ugly American logo from back in 2003. Time for an update. Au revoir, indeed.
rafa fan (st. louis)
I thought I read somewhere that Rafa was planning to skip Madrid because of the altitude difference between there and Paris, and then he played and lost in the final to Federer. Do you think that will have any effect on him (his knees and/or stamina) at the French?
Greg Garber (12:29 PM)
You read right, Rafa Fan, but in the end he decided to play. If it wasn't Madrid, in his home country, he robably would have bailed. As it was, he decided to play and he wound up a brutal stretch of clay-court events with a loss to Roger federer in the final. The altitude wasn't the best preparation for Paris and it showede in his ragged first-round match - see The Latest Dirt, posting a ittle later, for details. Rafa said his legs failed him today, evidence that maybe playing Madrid was a bad overall deciison.
Dan (Ottawa)
What do you see the future like for Jesse Levine? He hasn't been in any majors last year after winning a few first round matches last year. He really impressed me up in Canada when he had a 5-3 lead against Nadal before blowing it.
Greg Garber (12:31 PM)
Dan, good to hear a Jesse Levine question. I did an ambitious story on him last year (Goggle should bring it up) and enjoyed my time wih hm. He is on the smallish side but he's a terrific ball-striker. I expect he'll try to qualify hs way into Wimbledon again this year and I'm sure, one way r another, he'll get into the U.S. Open main draw.
Annoyed Viewer, NYC
Any particular reason why there's no coverage of the French Open today on ESPN? Only Federer Roddick Nadal are playing. Hello, ESPN? McFly??
Greg Garber (12:33 PM)
Hey, AV, we're dark today in Paris. Tennis Channel has the matches or you can watch the NCAA Div. 1 lacrosse final on the Worldwide Leader in Sports. Syracuse and Cornell, a terrific matchup between two schools within 45 miles of each other in upstate New York. Tune in on Tuesday.
MW (NY)
Who is going to be the next American to break through?
Greg Garber (12:36 PM)
MW: Men or women, and what constitutes a breakthrough? Today Alexa Glatch smoked Flavia Pennetta, 6-1, 6-1, in a shocker. Glatch is only 19 years old, a Fed Cup hero and she was playing in her first Grand Slam main draw outside the U.S. Open. On the men's side, Sam Querrey is slowly, methodically working his way up throug the rankings.
Jason (Buffalo)
Novak Djokovic seemed to be gaining ground on Nadal during the year. Do you see him making the final and what are his chances of beating Nadal if he makes it?
Greg Garber (12:38 PM)
Jason, he put it really nicely in a press conference here on Friday. He said he was one point away. As you know, he held match oint in that crazy 4-hour marathon in Madrid. One point would have done it. Djokovic is seen as the greatest threat to Nadal here in Paris; see Bonnie Ford's story which will detail this idea when it gets posted a little later.
Greg Garber (12:39 PM)
Amerian update: Roddick is through to the second round after a straight-sets win over Jouan. Roddick actually has a nice little draw and wouldn't see Gael Monfils (if he's healthy, which he isn't) until the fourth round.
Petra (Jersey Shore)
A-Rod up two sets. Perhaps not an early exit as the collective wisdom of the so-called experts predicted? Looks fit and healthy and, got a pretty pleasing lady by his side.
Greg Garber (12:42 PM)
Petra, nice to see you have been paying attention, following along at home. Yes, some of us chose A-Rod as our Early Exit choice. He could still lose in the second or third round and justify that pick. For what it's worth, tennis editor Matt Wilansky suffered the first loss of the tournament -- before the tournament. He had Vera Zvonareva as his early exit -- and she complied, pulling out BEFORE the tournament. Might have to give him partial credit for that.
Marilyn - East Hampton, NY
Why no coverage today for French Open?
Greg Garber (12:43 PM)
Marilyn: See previous post. Holiday in The States, this is Tennis Channel's day...
Dixie Ann, Trinidad and Tobago
Hi Greg, do you think there is anyone who can take this title away from Rafa this year?
Greg Garber (12:45 PM)
Dixie Ann: Yes, after watching Rafa's first match. Djokovic is the obvious choiece, but Federer could do it if Nadal is at less than 100 percent, even five percent less. It's that fine a line in professional tennis.
marc (indianapolis, in) [via mobile]
what's the problem with simon's game presently? was 2008 a fluke year for him?
Greg Garber (12:48 PM)
Like Davydenko, he is a "touch" guy, not a ower guy. watching im yesterday against Wayne Odesnik, I was struck by how slight he looked. He plays American Robert Kendrick in the second round and has a relatively easy draw all the way to Murray in the quarterfinals. But, that said, tough facing the pressure of being a Frenchman at the French Open.
Scarsdale NY
Do you think Nadal's improved serve will factor into his play at the french?
Greg Garber (12:49 PM)
Scars: Good point, but remember that Federer exploited Rafa's relatively weak second serve in the Madrid final. Federer won more than half of those points and you have to say it's Rafa's only real weakness.
John (Denver)
Hola. Do you think Rafael Nadal is sending a bad message by wearing a pink shirt? Hello? What's THAT all about? Is the King of Clay that comfortable in his manhood? What's next a girdle?
Greg Garber (12:52 PM)
Hola to you, Juan. Great question, which has been discussed all day here in press row. But is it pink -- or a soft magenta? And what abut those shorts. The best we've come up with is slate-blue. Does that make sense. The shoes are cool, too, with four little replicas of the French Open trophy. Maybe pink is the new black - or maybe it's just .... pink.
marc s., fishers, in [via mobile]
What do you think about murray beating nadal in the semis, federer beating djokovic in the semis, and then federer beating murray in the finals in 4 sets? what would have to occur for this to happen?
Greg Garber (12:55 PM)
Marc: Hey, if Rafa isn't physically right, it's a legitimate question. Murray spoke about how he's trying to transfer his hard-court game to clay. As Americans know, it's tricky being both patient and aggressive at the same time. Maybe it's a simple as playing the passive-aggressive card.
micfreilich [via mobile]
hey what do you feel about feds chances
Greg Garber (12:58 PM)
Thanks for chiming in, Mic. Federer looked solid today, better than Rafa. But after he lost that final a year ago so decisively to rafa, I'm not going to make any bold predictions.Odds of winning here: No. 1 Rafa, No. 2 Djoker, then No. 3 Federer.
get over yourself (in) [via mobile]
is serena losing her mind? why is she so annoying and disrespectful to safina?
Greg Garber (12:59 PM)
Easy, out there. The greatest thing about the Williams' sisters is their confidence. Sometimes they get a ittle carried away. I'll say this: I like Safina's chances MUCH better here than Serena's...
Greg Garber (1:00 PM)
Well, that's it kids. A wrap on ESPN.com's first chat from the 2009 French Open. Come back tomorrow at noon EST and colleague Bonnie Ford will be here to answer any and all of your questions.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:08 PM)
Bonjour to everyone -- thanks for joining us today.
Chance: Santa Barbara, California
Historically, the Williams' sisters have not faired well at the French but between the two sisters I'd have to give the better chance to Venus to go far and possibly win it all.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:11 PM)
Serena is traditionally a slow starter here, but she is doing her best to prolong and possibly blow this match -- ouch.
DE (Baltimore, MD)
Why are people so quick to write off Federer? He reached the finals of AO and managed to stretch Nadal to five sets with a 50% serve there and also defeated Nadal in Madrid.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:13 PM)
Don't think anyone's writing him off, DE, but I would stick with the story we posted today -- in a final here, I think Nadal-Djokovic would be a better match based on cumulative recent results. Of course, I understand folks who want a Nadal-Fed rematch.
Woytek (Cracow, Poland)
How do you see James Blake chances today?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:18 PM)
Welcome to the conversation! Blake has had some quality results on clay this season... made the final in Estoril (beat Davydenko in the semis) and defeated the always-difficult Ivo Karlovic at the World Team championships. No doubt he would like to stick around for a possible 4th round tilt with Federer.
Sam, UK
I heard something today about how Rafa injured his knee in practice yesterday. Is this true?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:19 PM)
Sam, all I can say is I saw him striding quite confidently through the players' lounge a couple hours ago and he did not look in the least gimpy.
Tim (Vestal NY)
I see Rafael Nadal failing to win the French Open this year, and losing to Federer or Djokovic in the final. Do you agree?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:19 PM)
He's still my pick, Tim (though I have to admit some of my other picks aren't going so well...)
Juan Carlos Ferrero (Spain)
Hey Bonnie, what do you think about my chances? I'm not the player I once was, but back in the day I was a threat every year.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:21 PM)
JC: Quite a feat to be on the chat while you're playing. Congrats on winning the second set against Ljubicic. A lot of people think he's going to make noise in this tournament, but you appear to be making a match of it.
tom nj [via mobile]
Does Serena look fit to you? She seems a tad thick. Or is it me?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:23 PM)
The eternal debate, Tom. Her fitness probably isn't where she wants it to be because of the knee.
Dixie, Trinidad and Tobago
Hi Bonnie, do you think Roger Federer will ever win another major and tie with Pete Sampras? Do you think its possible or is there just too much competition on the top?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:25 PM)
Yes, I do think Federer will tie Sampras, either at Wimbledon or the U.S. Open this season or next.
George, NY
How can you and others say Novak is the clear 2nd pick? He has never beaten Nadal on clay. I don't get how the media can dismiss Federer so easily.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:27 PM)
George, it's a terrific discussion. I think Djokovic would bring less baggage to a final here with Nadal. He's played him tougher recently. The conditions in Madrid are extremely different than RG. Again, I'm not DISMISSING Fed -- just saying that Djokovic could be a tougher matchup right now.
Joe (Dayton, OH)
Will we see a change to the ranking system any time soon? It seems odd that Murray is closing in on Federer based on a couple of Masters Series events, even though Federer (still) outperforms him at every major.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:27 PM)
Joe, they just tinkered with it substantially, I don't see changes coming soon.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:27 PM)
Joe, they just tinkered with it substantially, I don't see changes coming soon.
Jesse (TX)
Even though sharapova has not played much I thought she looked like she was striking the ball well. Do you think she makes it to the start of the 2nd week or maybe longer?? :)
Bonnie D. Ford (12:32 PM)
Great question. Her next match against Petrova will tell us a lot. If she gets through that she has a winnable match in the next round, but then Na Li awaits.
George NY
Based on what is Novak a tougher match-up? Madrid where he still couldn't win? Nadal toyed with Novak in Rome. I don't see him getting closer. If you play someone 4 times, 1 match is bound to be close
Bonnie D. Ford (12:35 PM)
George -- you're obviously convinced. If Fed can carry out the tactics he did in Madrid, it'll be a great match. Perhaps we need to focus on whether Fed beats Djokovic in a semi....
rafa fan (st. louis)
Hey Bonnie, who is that young guy sitting with Oracene during Serena's match? I saw him at the Australian Open too but don't remember anyone saying if he was a trainer or coach or something. Thanks!
Bonnie D. Ford (12:35 PM)
He is a hitting partner.
Drew Robbins (VA)
Which young American (ages 15-17) do you think has the best shot to be our next top 20 American player?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:37 PM)
Drew, that's always an expedition out on a limb, but remember this name: Sloane Stephens. She just won the Italian Open junior event. GIfted and 16 with a great attitude. The USTA development folks are very high on her. By the way, she beat another American, Christina McHale, in the semis of that tournament.
Evan(Ann Arbor,MI)
Any thoughts on this possibly being Safin's last go round in Paris. It seems his clay court game is improving with age.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:39 PM)
Hi Evan! Ann Arbor was my home for 10 years. Monsieur Safin told us he was "lucky to be me" in his first round match Sunday where he got a great reception from the fans. But here is his answer to your question:
Bonnie D. Ford (12:39 PM)
"Well, what I said already, just everybody is bothering me with questions, is it last year or yeah, I said already it's last year, and just when I hear this question again it's a little bit annoying already. I still have months to go. I have plenty of tennis yet to play. I'm not really feeling weird, coming for last time on the court, center court. Just not really didn't think about it. Thanks for reminding me. Now I will be thinking."
Bonnie D. Ford (12:40 PM)
If this is the last lap, we will miss him --
Bonnie D. Ford (12:42 PM)
Serena just won on her ninth match point, but I have to say the knee looks suspect.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:43 PM)
By the way, her opponent Klara Zakopalova of the Czech Republic was one of the four players who beat Serena during her career-record losing streak coming into this event...
Mark (NC)
In this day and age, do you feel that a tennis player can/will go play four years of college tennis and still be able to crack the top 50? Somdev Devvarman who had an astonishing college career is sitting in the 130s...Hard to imagine a player who could do more in college.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:45 PM)
Hi Mark. I'm a big fan of college tennis -- but it is a sort of self-selecting process. I hate to generalize, but I would say MOST men and women who go to college for four years don't have top 50 ambitions.
Nuts over Nadal St. Louis, MO
Why isn't there more TV coverage on ESPN of the French Open 1st round? No Nadal anywhere?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:46 PM)
Please tune in to our partner Tennis Channel when we're dark...
George NY
Agreed. Whether Federer can beat Novak right now is debatable... Thanks for the comments
Bonnie D. Ford (12:46 PM)
You're welcome! Anytime.
dixie, Trinidad and Tobago
Thanks for answering my question...do you think Federer can and will win more than 14 majors in time to come?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:47 PM)
As the athletes say, I'm just taking it one at a time...
mitch (in) [via mobile]
how do you feel about the atp allowing coaching on court during play?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:49 PM)
It'll never happen. I'm on record opposing it in the WTA, but I've lost that battle.
Dustin: Muncie, IN
Of course, barring a spread of the swine flu in the locker room, Andy Roddick will not be hoisting the trophy at Roland Garros. But, am I the only one that thinks with the new patience he has developed this year and he has a good chance to make a run at the quarters? Granted, he wilted in set 3 against Roger 2 weeks ago, but did take a set off of Fed on clay. What do you think?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:51 PM)
Roddick has a decent draw and a good chance to book that date with Federer.
Zack , Harrisonburg, Virginia
Would it be beneficial for Kim Clijsters to play doubles at Wimbledon and the grass season just to get the feeling of competition back into her system before she makes her legitimate comback in singles?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:52 PM)
Hi Zack. I'm sure Kim thought long and hard about the best point for her to re-enter the season and I can only assume she chose hard courts for a reason. Maybe she didn't want to have to change surfaces so soon.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:58 PM)
Tomorrow's schedule: Lenglen -- the second-largest show court -- is the place to be! Both Safina and Nadal play there, along with Sharapova.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:00 PM)
That's a wrap, folks -- thanks for keeping me hopping. Join Greg in this space tomorrow, same time, same channel.
Greg Garber (12:00 PM)
Greetings, tennis fans, from blustery, chilly Paris. For the second straight day we are paying the price for two gorgeous days to open the tournament. So far today, Andy Murray showed some pluck, pulling himself out of a 1-5 third-set hole to Potito Starace and going on to win. Ana Ivanovic, the defending champion, won easily and Maria Sharapova had a nice win over No. 11 seed Nadia Petrova. It's chat time -- let's get cracking. Bring on those questions...
Juan Carlos Ferrero (Spain)
Hey G, Bonnie didn't seem to give me much of a chance yesterday, but I took out Ljubicic in five sets. How do you think I stack up against Kohlschreiber?
Greg Garber (12:02 PM)
Juan Cralos, The King, thanks for joining us. A nice first-round win, to be sure, but being a defnding champion does not mean it will be automatic against Kohlschreiber. He's seeded -- and you're not.
Nate (Cleveland)
After watching Karlovic drop 55 aces on clay (which I believe is a record on any surface in a match), it makes me wonder why Roddick can't get his serve going and have a good showing at the French. Do you think we'll ever see Roddick make it to (or past) the Quarters here?
Greg Garber (12:06 PM)
I must admit, Nate, I had the same thought when I was watching the Karlovic-Hewitt match. I think the answer lies in the physics. Dr. Ivo is not stronger than Roddick, just eight inches longer, with much longer arms. That height advantage is what Karlovic's serve so tough ... it basically drops out of the sky. Consequently, he has an easier time acing people on clay. Roddick doesn't have that great angle and has to muscle the ball through the court, which on clay is a challenge
Lawai, Hawaii
2 problems with Espn coverage: Subpar American matches, let's see the top seeds. Tsonga instead of Blake please. And the music sounds like porno tracks.
Greg Garber (12:10 PM)
Lawai: What, that Robert Kendrick-Gilles Simon didn;t have you riveted? Seriously, it's a probelm that only lasts for a couple of days here at the French. Venus plays the next match on Chatrier -- Safin is about to lose the second set to Josselin Ouanna of France -- and Andy Roddick is the last U.S. man left. Agree with you on Tsonga. I'll look into that music question; might require some research.
Patrick McEnroe (Paris)
Who's a better analyst? Me, Brad Gilbert or Darren Cahill?
Greg Garber (12:11 PM)
Goodness, another celebrity. My journalistc integrity, such that it is, does not allow me to answer that question, Patrick. ALL of our analysts are terrific.
William Robles: New York, NY [via mobile]
Is Federer going to win the French Open?
Greg Garber (12:13 PM)
This was once a relevant question, William. But I think last year's final, when Fed won, what, four games might have made the point moot. Yes, I know Roger beat Rafa in Madrid, but he was exhausted from his four-hour semifinal match with Djokovic. Like Pete Sampras, I believe Federer will end his career without a French Open trophy.
Jeff (oklahoma city, OK) [via mobile]
by the end of the year who do you think will win the most grand slams and do you think any records will be broken by nadal
Greg Garber (12:15 PM)
Jeff: I would pose that question to our readers: Giving Rafa the benefit of the doubt (he IS 29-0 here and already up a set on Gabashvili), giving him the French, who wins Wimbledon and the U.S. Open?
Greg Garber (12:18 PM)
Just a programming note. Tonight as many of you know, is the final of the champions league between Barcelona and Manchester United. The players are crazy about soccer and there has been much discussion (also here in the press room) about where to watch it. Nadal, whose uncle played for Barcelona, needs to pick up this second set if he's going to watch the game at his hotel or in town.
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Who do you think has the best chance to try and penetrate the Big 4 in the men's game? Aside from clay, Roddick I think has the best chance and I think he could upset set one of the four on grass or hard courts...your thoughts?
Greg Garber (12:21 PM)
Zack: That's an easy one. Watching Juan Martin del Potro improve is like watching time-lapse photography. He is already dangerous. If he gets a ittle more muscle on those arms, he'll be deadly. When I talked to Jose Higueras, the great coach, about who had the tools to beat Rafa, he mentioned the Argentine. And he's only 20 years old. He's the No. 5 seed and would meet Djokovic in the quarters. Could be a good match.
Tomas (Pilzen, Czech Republic)
Hey Greg it's me. Remember me, Thomas? Well I said the Czech woman who'd go farthest in the draw would be Nicole Vaidisova. You agreed with me. Unfortunately I was wrong. She lost to a Spanish veteran Virginia Ruano Pascual. She was really messy out there. I mean 50 errors compared to Pascual's 9. That's insane! Our family was happy to see Lucie Hradecka win. Some of my friends and family saw her play out an amazing week in reaching the finals in Strausbourg. We're hoping she can pass Carla Suarez Navarro, who we all know is a capable player. The top Czech Iveta Benesova moved through after her opponent retired, but she was looking really good. Too bad she probablly has to play Ivanovic in the third round. My friend Jan and sister Zuzana keep telling me can beat Ivanovic. I said, no way. Tell me, do you think she can pose a threat to Ivanovic? Why or why not? And speaking of Jan, the player he's been saying will be Czech Republic's hero at this year's Roland Garros French Open Lucie Safarova moved thorugh. It's not an easy draw though. She needed three sets to beat Sabine Lisicki who won the Charleston title this year. And now she has to play Venus! What does she need to do to win? So it's down to these three Czechs. My family wants to know, who has the best shot at making a run deep in the tournamenet. With Nicole Vaidisova out, I am calling on Lucie Hdrecka. How about you? P.S. You said if any of them reach the quarters I can give you a hard time. I have a feeling I am going to get to.
Greg Garber (12:25 PM)
Ah, Tomas, you're back and better than ever. Vaidisova is a terrible disappointment, considering her formidable skills. It just shows you how imortant the mental aspect of tennis is. Before today's Ivanovic match I would have agreed that Benesova might push Ivanovic, but she looked pretty winning her match 1 and 2. safarova has Venus as soon as Safin oses the third set. Venus got the hiccups out in her first-round match, so I don't anticipate troble ... still, the Williams' usually make it interesting early in the Grand Slams.
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Assuming they are healthy and in different quarters what are your thoughts on the last 4 of the US Open being the Williams Sisters, Sharapova, and Clijsters? I think it is probably if the cards fall right.
Greg Garber (12:28 PM)
Zack, as usual, you are well ahead of the curve here. It's a fun game to play, but injuries make this thing impossible to predict. Tat would be a very cool semifinal slate, but with the condition of Serena's knee shrouded in sercecy and Sharapova's shoulder still in question -- not to mention Cijsters' mindset -- I can't give you anything definitive.
Joe (Ypsilanti,MI)
My questions is, what is up with Roger?? It seems he never makes adjustments in game. He just doesn't seem to be as aggressive since Nadal has emerged as a clear number 1. To me it looks as if he isn't willing to evolve his game to counter his opponents. gone are the days he could just show up on the court and awe his opponents. WAKE UP ROGER!!
Greg Garber (12:31 PM)
Hey, Joe. This a question that comes up a lot lately. I had a ong tak with Darren Cahill on the ride over to Roland Garros today and he thinks that Roger's coming around. Cahill, you may remember, worked with Federer for nine days in Dubai earlier this year. He said it takes time for a multi-champion to process change and begin to trust it and a new voice. He pointed to Madrid, where Fed beat Nadal in the final, as an example of Federer's subtly changing tactics. I'm going to tackle this ticklish subject in a story that we'll likely post n Friday. Interesting stuff from Cahill, who knows Fed quite well...
Greg Garber (12:31 PM)
Hey, Joe. This a question that comes up a lot lately. I had a ong tak with Darren Cahill on the ride over to Roland Garros today and he thinks that Roger's coming around. Cahill, you may remember, worked with Federer for nine days in Dubai earlier this year. He said it takes time for a multi-champion to process change and begin to trust it and a new voice. He pointed to Madrid, where Fed beat Nadal in the final, as an example of Federer's subtly changing tactics. I'm going to tackle this ticklish subject in a story that we'll likely post n Friday. Interesting stuff from Cahill, who knows Fed quite well...
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Do you think Serena would have made the same statement "I'm the real #1" if Henin was still playing?
Greg Garber (12:36 PM)
Zack, you're on fire today. Another point well taken. Probably not, but Henin -- who was No. 1 four different times -- deserved her respect. Be nice to have Henin back...
Yvonne (Saline,MI)
I don't understand why fans and commentators continue to praise the william sisters. Everytime they lose its because of injuries or some outside force. True champions win and lose with grace. If it were any other player making excuse after excuse the media would shred them into pieces. Why the special treatment for these 2 sister?
Greg Garber (12:40 PM)
Yvonne: They are marquee players and tend to get the benefit of the doubt. Because of the way they approach tennis -- they don't play as many matches and tournaments as many other players -- they tend to start slow in these major tournaments. Because of the power they bring to the game, they tend to get hurt more, too.No excuses last night from Serena. She said she played "horrendous" and likened it to junior tennis -- "or worse."
Greg Garber (12:44 PM)
Match update: Nadal is struggling again -- by his standards anyway. After smoking Gabashvili 6-1 in the first, they've settled into a nasty 3-all game. After his first-round match, Nadal complained of being leg weary after laying 20 matches in 33 days. This bears watching as he attempts to win his fifth consecutive title at Roland Garros...
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Why do you think Borg was never able to achieve a US Open title? Do you think the same fate is in store for Nadal or do you think if he is able to take a long break after Wimbledon to recover he has a legitimate shot in the future?
Greg Garber (12:49 PM)
Zack, is it possible you have too much free time? Anyway, I ike the way you think. This, going forward, is THE question in tennis. Imagine if Rafa wins the French, as expected, and Wimbledon, as he did last year. The buzz heading into the U.S. Open will be insane. It could be a calendar slam. That would be a fun two weeks. To answer your question, I think Nadal will win the US Open one day -- but not this year. He has to learn how to clay fewer clay events ealrier in the year and conserve some energy...
rafa fan (st. louis)
Do you think Rafa will start playing fewer tournaments as he gets older (if you can count 23 as "old")? He's been complaining about the tour schedule for ages, so do you think he might finally start skipping a few clay- and hard-court tourneys to save his knees and prolong his career?
Greg Garber (12:51 PM)
Yes, I do. Uncle Toni is pretty sharp and if Rafa goes 0-for-New York again, they'll ake steps to correct the situation. They've already slved the first three Slams, why not the fourth?
Chris NJ
What is your opinion of Bill Simmons?
Greg Garber (12:52 PM)
Chris -- Hey, thats not a tennis question. Still, as someone born in Boston, I have to say I feel his pain most of the time.
Greg Garber (12:54 PM)
And that, friends, is it for today. Have to run to a Sharapova press conference and check in on Nadal's progress. My colleague Bonnie Ford will be in the pilot's seat tomorrow at 12 noon EST...
Bonnie D. Ford (12:04 PM)
Greetings from overcast Paris. Please fire when ready.
Ben (Paris,France)
Got a question to you, what did you think about the Ouanna/Safin game ? 5 sets , nice plays all along, and safin's last game at Roland Garros
Bonnie D. Ford (12:05 PM)
RIveting. Loved it. Wish both guys could have continued on in the draw, frankly. Talk about opposite ends of the spectrum -- Ouanna is just starting to live up to his promise while Safin -- at least allegedly -- is on his last lap. Anyone else besides me a little skeptical about that?
another tennis viewer, brooklyn, new york, usa
Who has the better serve, Ivo Karlovic or Andy Roddick? I say Roddick, his second serve is killer.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:07 PM)
Interesting question. Karlovic's obviously comes in at a much harder (sharper) angle, but Roddick has more variety. I'd go with Roddick.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:08 PM)
By the way, Roddick is 3-1 lifetime against Dr. Ivo...
Chad (Chicago)
Of the young Frenchmen (Simon, Monfils, Tsonga, Gasquet), which has the best chance of becoming an elite player and possibly winning a major?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:11 PM)
Tsonga, by far. Has already made it to a Slam final, obviously -- seems odd now to remember how badly he dusted Nadal in the semis. The big challenge for him is to stay injury-free.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:12 PM)
Big guy has his hands full against Monaco... let's see if my prediction that he wins in four holds up.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:14 PM)
Shout-out to Joe in Ypsilanti -- I'm a former resident of Y-town.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:18 PM)
We think we have problems -- French and U.S. have the same number of women left in the draw: two. French men obviously faring much better.
Liz NYC
Hey Bonnie, Gabashvili didn't look half bad in the second set against Rafa yesterday. What are his chances of getting some wins against quality opponents and improving in the rankings?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:25 PM)
I dunno... seems like he's been mired in about the same place for a couple of years now...
Joe (Ypsilanti,MI)
Any signs of life from american tennis? Outside of Roddick(I really don't consider him a great tennis player) and possibly Blake(another weak canidate) kids have no one to look up to. Do you think we will ever see a class like Agassi, Samprass, Martin, Chang, and Courier? Part of the reason these guys were sucessful was becasue they pushed each other to get better. Is there any hope for USA tennis?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:28 PM)
Hey there. The Fab Five probably were a (fortunate) aberration for any country. Patrick McEnroe and Jose HIgueras are doing their best to try to build as large a young player pool as possible... we'll see.
Pramod, India
Mathieu's chaces of upsetting Roger? Pretty good after today's performance from Roger. Seriously though there's a lot of creibility to Pete's argument that Roger won't make the semis. your thoughts?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:36 PM)
He can't have the kind of mid-match lapse he had today and expect to make the semis. Mathieu hasn't had a great year, but he can be troublesome on any surface when he digs in. Fed has swept their three matches but they haven't played in three years. Let's not forget Mathieu hasn't quite won his match yet...
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
With the disarray of the women's game do you think Clijsters has a chance to score Slam #2? I think if she has the fitness level she definitely can do it.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:37 PM)
That's a big IF but in a word, yes. Attitude and savoir-faire -- literally, knowing how to win -- are gonna go a long way in this leaderless pack.
Chad (Las Vegas)
If Federer can win this where would that put him in the all time ranks? I know he hasn't been great lately but winning the French would put him #1 in my book.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:42 PM)
A career Slam and tying Sampras would certainly put new life into that argument. With that kind of rocket boost, I'd see him winning Wimbledon a few weeks later to break the record. But I don't think he'll win here.
Raj (Philadelphia, PA)
Bonnie, is there any use for the "break points converted" stat? If someone goes 2 for 20 on these, but all 20 break points were only in 2 service games (so the person broke in both service games in which they had break points), how do those 18 missed opportunities matter? Isn't "break point games converted" a better stat?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:52 PM)
Great question. I think the stat is very relevant as an indication of form -- i.e. it gives a sense of wasted opportunities, whether they're bunched in one game or spread out over several. In-form players close break points out quickly.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:52 PM)
Sorry for the delay on that response -- the RG wireless is sketchy today.
Snow (NYC, NY)
Ok. Here it is. Out of the 4 major grand slams, which one in your opinion is the best experience? Which ones tend to bring out the best tennis from players and which one would be a great experience for fans.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:54 PM)
Hi Snow. This tournament is a personal favorite of mine because I lived here as a teenager and speak the language -- so I'm biased. It is the most crowded of the facilities, but I love the intimacy of the courts. As for the surface, I love clay, it makes for a creative game and exposes weaknesses.
Chad (Chicago)
Earlier this year it seemed that Federer was having trouble closing out matches and coming back from being behind. Do you think that his comeback today (as well as his 3rd set smackdown of Roddick in Madrid) can be helpful for those tough moments that will be coming later in the French?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:55 PM)
I guess you can look at it both ways, but IMO Federer would much rather have easy wins than death-defying escapes at this point in the draw.
Ulrik (Viborg, Denmark)
So Caroline Wozniacki Has troubles with her rips and clay is har least preferred surface, therefore she might not go all the way in the french. But how do you see her chances at Wimbledon (her preferred surface). Do we have a little love for my country fellow
Bonnie D. Ford (12:58 PM)
Absolutely, if she's healthy -- she should graze on the grass.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:59 PM)
Should be a quarterfinalist.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:00 PM)
Gotta run, folks... Serena is coming into press. Thanks for chiming in. Join Greg tomorrow at noon eastern.
Greg Garber (12:01 PM)
Greetings, fans of tennis. Greg Garber here to take you through the final chat of Week One at Roland Garros. There are tons of questions, let's get to the conversaton....
Wyatt (Bloomington, IN)
How far do you see Roddick advancing? I'd like to say the quarters but I realize his 4th round opponent (possibly Monfils) could be too much.
Greg Garber (12:04 PM)
Wyatt: With the oss by Venus Williams today to Agnes Szavay, we're down to Roddick and Serena Williams. Roddick has a very winnable third-round match with France's Marc Gicquel and, yes, Monfils would likely be waiting in the fourth for a berth into the quarters -- and a shot against Roger Federer. Monfils has been playing hurt (knee). If he gets there, he might be less than 100 percent -- or start to feel the crazy pressure the French feel at Roland Garros...
Suraj (Novi, MI)
Greg, you wrote a nice article on federer yesterday about his need to evolve. If he gets the chance to play nadal again, what are some of the major changes you feel he needs to make? Is it serving and volleying more, or being much more aggressive with nadal's 2nd serve, etc? I just feel for some reason he talks a lot about changes but come match time, does not execute them well.
Greg Garber (12:07 PM)
Thanks, Suraj. As Darren Cahill and Jose Higueras -- two men who worked with him in the last year -- told me, he needs to change things up. While Nadal was tired at Madrid following the Djokovic match, Federer did play him differently. He attacked more, swung bigger at second serves, came to net and hit drop shots. You can see him doing all these things in the ealry rounds here. His back seems to be better (see today's Latest Dirt), which means his serve is a bigger weapon.
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
If there was someone to penetrate the Big 4 to make it to the semis who do you think will make it (excluding Del Porto & Ferrer)?
Greg Garber (12:11 PM)
Zack, after carrying yesterday's chat single-handedly, is back .... This is a good one. I am looking through the draw and the name Marin Cilic comes to mind. He lost only 11 games in the first two rounds (the best since Vilas in 1982) and had an easy time with Radek Stepanek today. He gets Murray next, who is no lock on clay. Next up would be Simon, who has looked shaky here at times. That would put the 20-year-old kid in the semifinals.
JD (Boston)
Has racket technology peaked or are there still more improvements coming that will change the way the game is played?
Greg Garber (12:12 PM)
JD: When you talk to the old guys, they ALL talk about the recent string technology. You never know where the next innovation is going to come from, but you KNOW there will be more.
Pramod, India
Can we have Roland Garros name the men's trophy after Nadal for the next 2 years? Seriously, the men's competition shouldn't be held and they can allocate the time to valuable grass court tournaments. Ok, not happening but realistically that seems like a more productive outcome than this. Debate now is what will be his average games concededer match this tournament. Last year he was 7. This year so far his average is 8 games per match, I'm banking on him improving last year's record. What's your take? How many games?
Greg Garber (12:15 PM)
Not so fast, Pramod. Rafa proved that, under the right circumstances, he can be beaten on clay. Djokovic has gotten very close in this respect, as we saw in Madrid. He had a match point, but Rafa prevailed. Who is to say he can't get to the final and give Rafa another go? It's not realistic to expect Nadal to again go the entire tournament withot losing a set (his last was to Federer in the 2007 final), so I'll dial up to 10 games er...
G (NY)
How about something positive to say about a guy who's made it to 19 consecutive grand slam semifinals? jeez.
Greg Garber (12:16 PM)
Dude, did you read yesterday's story? It gave Roger his due, including those 19 straight Grand Slam semis. That's nine better than the previous record, which, when you think about it, is astonishing.
May (Chicago, ILL)
Is Bud Collin's personality as colorful as his outfits? His outfits reminds me of Don Cherry of CBC Hockey. One of those guys I would love to have a beer or two with.
Greg Garber (12:21 PM)
Bud -- who is sitting about 10 feet away from me in the Chatrier press room -- is a fantastic guy. He can got back 40 years and give you set-by-set details from matches. Once every Slam I try and sit next to him at a match and just listen to the history pour out of him. Last year we watched Guillermo Coria's comeback match here. Good stuff. As far as sitting down and having a beer, I just asked him what he's go for. Bud said a pale ale at the Aussie Open. There you go, almost as good as being here.
Greg Garber (12:23 PM)
Programming note: Maria Sharapova is getting smoked by Yaroslava Shedova. It's 5-1 and Shedova just missed on a set point. This bears watching...
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
When do you think Murray will get Slam #1? I think Murray's best chances are at Wimbledon & the US Open but can he break through this year?
Greg Garber (12:28 PM)
Zack (he's back -- again): I'm with you. Clay not his surface. Struggling big-time right now against Tipsarevic, down 3-5. I think he can compete at both Wimby and the U.S.Open.
Greg Garber (12:30 PM)
Another update: The Williams sisters, who lost their first set to Szavay and Dulko, 2-6, won the second 6-1. They're up a break in the third. Why is it that they always seem to start so slow?
Steven (Toronto)
The defending champ on the womens side has looked very good so far, she seemed to have been lost in the shuffle of late. What do you make of her chances here on out?
Greg Garber (12:32 PM)
Very, very good, Steven. When you watch Grand Slam tennis, you just get the idea when someone's ready to win a title. Djokovic at the Aussie, Ivanvic here. These one feels like Safina's to lose. She's lost four games in six sets. No one's doing better than that.
Greg Garber (12:33 PM)
Murray is creeping back into it. He needs to break Tipsarevic to bring it to 5-all in the first.
Suraj (Novi, MI)
Do you think that this is the year that safina finally wins a slam considering serena seems to have struggled in her matches a bit and venus just got out? I saw those two as her biggest challenges...not to mention safina is breezing through her matches.
Greg Garber (12:35 PM)
Suraj: I think you're right, Venus would have seen her in the semis. The big match is the quarters versus Ivanovic, who might be playing nearly as well as Safina.
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
If Safina & Serena make the finals who do you think will win?
Greg Garber (12:37 PM)
That, right there, is the million-dollar quesiton. IF it's Serena, can Safina stand up to her mentally. That's somethng I'm not sure about.
Pramod, India
If I call Federer loses by the 4th round (and I'm proven right), can I be considered for a tennis analyst position at ESPN? :) Your thoughts on Fed not making the semis?
Greg Garber (12:38 PM)
Get in line, Pramod. I think Fed DOES make the semifinals.
Angela - Barbados
Greg - why does Rafa keep pulling at his pants? Is it a nervous thing?
Greg Garber (12:40 PM)
Angela: It's sort of like Michelle Larcher de Brito's screaming ... Rafa has been doing it for years, a nervous tic that is so ingrained I don't think he knows he's doing it.
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Greg could you tell Pramod that I deserve the tennis analyst position at ESPN before they do? Thanks!
Greg Garber (12:41 PM)
Zack -- you're right, I'm not going to lie.
Greg Garber (12:42 PM)
Murray's done it. He's back even at 5-all, 30-all with Tipsarevic. Sharapova turning things around, too.
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Not to take away from his past success but I really think we will see a Nadal v. Djokovic final which I think personally will be better because I think Djokovic can counter-attack Nadal better although I still say Nadal wins the title.
Greg Garber (12:47 PM)
Zack: Again, I'm with you. This is the final everybody wants. If you saw last year's Rafa-Fed final (four games), you know what I mean. Djoker seems to have the tools to beat Rafa. I am collecting info for a big story next week on that precise subject. Some good stuff from Darren Cahill, Paul Annacone, Todd Martin and Jose Higueras.
Steven (Toronto)
Is Cilic ready to make his major move this tourney or we still have to wait a little longer?
Greg Garber (12:48 PM)
Steven, I say yes. For a couple of years we've been waiting for a big breakthrough. He's been to three Grand Slam fourth rounds -- this one might see him reach a quarterfinal.
joe (nyc)
I just said the same thing as Zack about Nadal v/ Djokovic. Can anyone else get some love around here?
Greg Garber (12:49 PM)
Maybe, Joe, he's just cribbing off your stuff. Send along another question and we'l see if it happens again...
joe (nyc)
Greg and Angela? Nervous tick? Rafa has no idea what being nervous feels like, no?
Greg Garber (12:50 PM)
Touche. I should have gone with just "tic."
Greg Garber (12:52 PM)
Tipsarevic just broke Murray and is serving for the set at 6-5...
joe (nyc)
Do you think if Rafa wins the calendar year grand slam this year he will automatically be considered the greatest of all time?
Greg Garber (12:53 PM)
Joe, if -- when? -- he wins in Paris that becomes the discussion the rest of the way. The feelinghere is that he'll find a way to fall short in NYC. On the other hand, Uncle Toni may not allow it.
Liz NYC
Hey Greg, there were some rumors a while back (during the Aussie, I think?) that Rafa was going through some rough times in his personal life ... any idea what those were? I never heard anything about family problems or anything, but it doesn't seem to have affected his play!
Greg Garber (12:54 PM)
Liz, for now, it's a closely guarded secret. And yet, he is No. 1 and has the season's best record.Champions focus, and no one does it better than Rafa.
Pramod, India
Greg, I thought you were objective. Disappointing. My tennis analyst ambitions (much like Fed's semi chances) have been quashed.
Greg Garber (12:56 PM)
Pram (may I call you Pram?): Jump in on tose conversation threads at the bottom of the on-line stories. Those are a great spot to show off your tennis knowledge. Most of those folks are smarter than me.
Dixie, Trinidad and Tobago
I am at work so I cannot see any of the matches...but as great as Safina is and I'm not trying to take anything away from her...is it safe to say her talent has not been truly tested yet at this tornament becuase she has not met any of the top women players yet...Ivanovic etc...I mean...hasn't she only played lower ranked players so far in this tournament?
Greg Garber (12:57 PM)
Yes, Dixie, it's true but the ravy train ends in the quartrs - safina would play defending champion Ana Ivanovic, who is playing great right now.
joe (nyc)
As a diehard Rafa fan I would love to see him once again defeat Fed in a grand slam final. However caught up in all the Nadal-Federer hype is the fact that in a 5 set final Nadal vs. Djokovic would be a far more competitive and entertaining final. Your thoughts?
Greg Garber (12:58 PM)
Agreed, but the big question there is mental toughness at the end. Yes, Djoker pushed him for four hours in madrid, but can he go five in Paris? We may find out.
joe (nyc)
Now im feeling the love greg, much appreciated highlight of my boring day at work. I can't help but agree with you about the US Open though. Unfortunately the way my boy Rafa plays he usually is gassed by the end of the year. Anything Nadal can do going forward to conserve energy and the wear and tear on his legs during the grueling tennis season?
Greg Garber (12:59 PM)
Joe: yes, play less. He shouldn;t have played Madrid and I'm tld he may never play it again if it stays at that spot in the calendar.
Greg Garber (1:01 PM)
Well, folks, that was fun. Murray is up 4-3 in the tiebreaker with Tpsarevic and Sharapova is on serve at 3-2 in the second set. We're taking a few days off from chatting, but Bonnie Ford will be back to answer all your questions on onday at 12 noon, EST. Enjoy the tennis this weekend. Serena Williams and Andy Roddick both play on Saturday.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:00 PM)
Greetings from the wildest and wackiest French Open in a while. Oooh la la.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:01 PM)
A quick scan of the questions in the queue show that most of them go something like this:
Fort lauderdale, FL
Would it be safe to say that with Roger's escape act today that he should be able to tighten his game and pull this off? Who has the best chance of taking him out? Del Potro?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:03 PM)
Federer has a great record against most of the guys left in the draw, with Murray being the notable exception - but this is Murray' weakest surface. I think Federer's own psyche, and the way he deals with suddenly being elevated to favorite's status, is the key.
Wilson
As a huge Nadal fan, I'M LIVID about the Nadal team's ridiculous handling of his schedule. Why is this guy playing so much? It's ludicrous. He keeps saying, "I don't have a choice. 'we have no election...'" That is idiotic. When are Rafa and his team going to figure out there are only four tourneys that matter when it comes to his legacy? Realy, who cares if you are number one? Who cares if you win Madrid? Who cares if you win the most Masters? Overall number of majors is all that matters for a legacy? Am I wrong? Will they finally wise up? Do you think they wise up now?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:08 PM)
Hi Wilson. Sometimes we forget that the guy is only 22 -- that's an age where you tend to think you can do it all. He's a proud player who wants to continue to be the king on clay while conquering other surfaces. It's hard to fault him for desire. I'll throw it back to you -- which event would you make him give up? Remember that a) he's Spanish and it's hard not to play in his own country and b) Masters Series events are obligatory.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:13 PM)
Hi Wilson. Sometimes we forget that the guy is only 22 -- that's an age where you tend to think you can do it all. He's a proud player who wants to continue to be the king on clay while conquering other surfaces. It's hard to fault him for desire. I'll throw it back to you -- which event would you make him give up? Remember that a) he's Spanish and it's hard not to play in his own country and b) Masters Series events are obligatory.
johnnie
who do you see actually challenging fed to win the title? i never thought he'd have problems with haas! who else is left that can beat him? and do you think murray can beat fed on clay?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:14 PM)
Federer modestly said in his press conference that it was "likely" he'd have a winning record against any potential finals opponent. Well, get a load of the numbers...
Bonnie D. Ford (12:16 PM)
vs. Davydenko: 12-0 vs.Soderling: 9-0 vs. Gonzalez: 12-1
Bonnie D. Ford (12:19 PM)
and... vs. Murray, 2-6... but they've never played on clay. That makes it hands-down the most intrguing scenario, and one that could have huge implcations for Wilmbledon.
Judah (New York, NY)
Do you think the upset of Nadal affected Federer's mental state in the beginning of his match today. Do you think the pressure of being the favorite is suddenly too much to handle for what looks like and increasingly nervous Fed.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:20 PM)
Hard to get inside his head, Judah. I don't see how it can't affect him, given that this also represents his long-awaited chance to tie Pete Sampras, but Roger is not going to admit that to a room full of reporters.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:21 PM)
It's all Fed all the time in the questions queue...
Joe (Ypsilanti,MI)
Imagine Fed tying Pete's record here at the French, finally completing his person Slam Sweep. Then I still believe Fed is the slight favorite in England and a huge favorite on the hard courts of US Open. I have a strange feeling the newly married and expecting father may think about leaving the game on top. Lets be honest here, Fed doesnt look like he enjoys tennis as much on the court anymore. The losses seem to have taken a toll on Fed. I see him possibly breaking the record this year and then playing just the majors next year as a retirement tour. Your thoughts?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:22 PM)
Hi YpsiJoe -- I totally disagree. I think Federer is insatiable. I think if he wins this, he'll see it as opening the faucet to 15, 17, 18... trying to put the record out there. I'm not saying he'll do that, just that he wants it.
Kathleen (NY,NY)
Hi Bonnie, I so don't want Fed to win. Mr. Waterworks is a turn-off to me. So, I'm rooting on Davydenko. Wanna bet? (just kidding)
Bonnie D. Ford (12:24 PM)
This is the NBA: No Bets Allowed. You are a tough customer. Davydenko would be swimming against history, although Federer graciously said he shouldn't be ignored in the finals equation. That may be because he's 12-0 against the guy.
Cecile, Floral Park, NY
Rafa's loss yesterday is another indication of just how hard it is to win a major, not to mention the Slam. Do you foresee Rafa winning a slam given his being 'tired' and his knees?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:25 PM)
Long-term, the challenge for him will be the U.S. Open, assuming that he continues to put this kind of emphasis on the clay court season.
Joel (Mich)
Bonnie, Bonnie, Bonnie. I hear the guys on ESPN talking about Roddick. Does anyone really believe that if he escapes from Monfils he can be a threat to Rog in the quarters? Rog has blown Roddick off the court in all there other meetings in majors on surfaces that are far more favoring of Roddick in comparison to clay at Roland, no?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:27 PM)
No secret that the matchup would favor Federer. The intangible would be that Roddick could play freely while the pressure on Roger will mount match by match. Who would have given Roddick a berth in the quarters a few weeks ago? He's playing with house money.
Andy (Rochester, NY)
Do you think that Monfils can push Roddick today? What are the chances he pulls an upset?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:28 PM)
I see a tight match. Not sure a Monfils win could be considered an upset despite their relative seedings -- Monfils was a semifinalist here last year and he will be preaching to the choir at Suzanne Lenglen.
Gwynne, Aberdeen, MD
rafa's loss shows how incredible roger's consistency has been/ will anyone ever achieve 19 slam semi-finals ever again?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:29 PM)
Amen, Gwynne -- good point. I wouldn't dare make that prediction.
Adam, FL
Bonnie, If Fed wins this year's French Open does he become the prohibitive 'all-best player' in your mind and in the tennis community? He will have completed the career slam, tied Pete for all-time majors won, recorded stats in majors that will likely never be touched, and dominated the game for 5 straight years. He has to be, right?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:31 PM)
Adam, I'm sure that will be a big subject of discussion. I'm not very keen on these GOAT rankings myself -- I don't believe players from different eras can be compared. If Federer wins here I think I'll simply appreciate the effort it took after a long period where everything came more easily for him.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:33 PM)
Let's give the women a little time...
George NY
Bonnie, are you pretending the Novak loss didn't happen after you over-estimated this guy?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:33 PM)
...But first... George... give it a rest!
Johnny (LA, CA)
How impressive has it been for Maria to fight her way to the quarters in her comeback which happens to be at her most difficult slam event?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:34 PM)
Quite simply, she deserves massive props for this.
Jorden (Indiana)
what are the chances of Serena Williams winning this year's French Open and Wimbledon?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:38 PM)
Serena has -- in typical fashion -- really settled down. If Cirstea beats Jankovic (they're in a third set) I see her getting to the final for sure. But Safina, prohibitive favorite on the other side, would pose a real test. As for Wimbledon... Venus and/or an in-form Sharapova will be her biggest obstacles.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:39 PM)
The number of questions today is outstanding, people... thanks... I'm cranking here but won't be able to get to all of them.
Jeffrey (New York City)
Cirstea is again looking great against a highly ranked opponent. Do you anticipate her being a top-ten player in the near future? Or do you think it's just a Paris hot streak. She never got out of the 2nd round of a major last year, but it looks like she has the power and speed to be a consistent threat on all surfaces.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:43 PM)
Gotta be honest with you, Jeffrey -- With all the upsets and near-upsets of big names, I haven't had a chance to watch her play more than a few points or to delve into her story. If she beats JJ (now 4-all in 3rd!) I have a feeling her bio will be on my assignments plate... She only just turned 19!
May (Chicago, ILL)
With all the commotion of about the shrieking from certain players, do you see more freuquent warnings to players? Do you think it really is a distraction to players on the court when your opponent screeches at every opportunity?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:46 PM)
Until the recent brouhaha over Michelle Larcher de Brito's decibel level, I have to say that I think everyone was pretty much resigned to the fact that grunts and shrieks are part of the women's game. We may not like it, but the precedent was established with Seles and there are too many top players who do it now to stop the trend. Whether MLdB represents a new threshhold that will have to be dealt with... we'll see.
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Do you personally see Roddick winning a 2nd slam in his career? I could see him doing it again either at Wimby or US Open.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:47 PM)
I do think that will happen, Zack, and if you pressed me I would say he has a better chance in NY.
Wilson (NYC)
The Masters are obligatory? But before Madrid, everyone was saying that Nadal may choose not to play? What are they going to do to him if he doesn't play? Take away some points? Are points really important? Is being number one in a system he despises important? If I'm Nadal, I take a stand and say, "Dock me, do whatever you like, I'm going to play when and where I like. He should do it like Tiger--focus on the four majors--if he's number one or 10 in rankings, it makes no difference. His legacy is the number of majors he wins. We don't even think about Sampras and his weeks at number one. The only number that matters is 14 in the record books.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:50 PM)
Hey Wilson, Appreciate your concern for the big guy. You have to remember there's another side to this. Nadal is No. 1, and a huge, huge attraction for tournaments. It's not just about him -- it's also about the economic health of non-Slam events. Players get a lot of criticism for withdrawing for less than dire reasons. I'm sure Nadal and his people are trying to do the right balancing act with his schedule. Let's not forget he played an awful lot leading into this event the last four years and still won it.
Felix (Littleton, CO)
I think at this french open sharapova and federer will both complete their respective career slams. Has this ever happened before?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:52 PM)
Interesting point, Felix. Sharapova hasn't been in the conversation for a career Slam because of her condition, and she remains a very long shot for the title, but it's worth remembering she has just one to go...
George, NY
What will other players take out of the Nadal loss yesterday? Will we see players finally going for bigger 2nd serves and attacking his 2nd serve?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:55 PM)
Thanks, George-- I think yesterday's match was a matter of a guy whose game/physical skills match up really well with Nadal's, playing the match of his life. Not sure there are a lot of tactical lessons for other players there.
Evan(Ann Arbor,MI)
Assuming Serena and Safina face off in the final, and just for kicks lets pencil Safina as the winner, imagine how awkward it would be for Serena to congratulate the "true #1 player in the world"
Bonnie D. Ford (12:56 PM)
It's a teaching moment for sure...
Juan (Boston)
Who ends the year as #1 on the men's side. Nadal's good some work to do now to keep the ranking, no?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:58 PM)
It could get tighter. Nadal obviously has points to defend at Wimbledon and even the North American summer events...
Bonnie D. Ford (1:00 PM)
Jankovic in a real dogfight here, folks... I've gotta run. Many, many thanks for our best traffic day yet. Please join Greg tomorrow here at this time...
Greg Garber (11:58 AM)
Good afternoon, tennis fans. Greg Garber checking in for the Tuesday quarterfinal chat from Roland Garros. W've aready seen Dinara Safina survive a three-set match with Victoria Azarenka, Robin Soderling crush Nikolay Davydenko and, just now, Dominka Cibulkova wreck Maria Sharapova. Ongoing is the Andy Murray-Fernando Gonzalez match, with the match tied at a set apiece and Gonzo up 3-0 in the third. To the questions...
Pompano Beach, FL, Kolya!!
What about Safina or Kuznetsova? They are both playing well and have both lost in the final here before. Who has the edge here?
Greg Garber (12:01 PM)
Pompano: I cant see Sveta getting past Serena tomorrow. Even though Safinastartd poorly she rallied nicely. For the most part, she's played like a No. 1 player. Serena, of course, may have other things to say about that...
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
If Soderling does NOT win the title, should the men's champion thank him in his trophy acceptance speech?
Greg Garber (12:03 PM)
Hey, Zack. Another solid point. Just a thouhgt: After watching him rip Davydenko, who nis to say he WON'T be the champ? If he's not, he should get 40 percent of the winner's prize.
victor monroe,la
greg when will andy roddick be number one in the world?
Greg Garber (12:04 PM)
Vict: The answer is...2003, when he won his first -- and last - Grand Slam. There is too much talent ahead of him now.
Jorden (IN)
Greg, lets assume that Serena does, against all of the negativity blemishing the blog and chat pages, win the French Open. Will she be the favorite to win at Wimbledon this year? In my opinion, Sharapova can't seem to handle the williams and I believe that Venus can be beaten by Serena, especially if she's seeking a fourth straight win at a major this year. What are your thoughts? Thanks!
Greg Garber (12:06 PM)
Jorden: No, Venus -- who has won three of the last four at the All England Club (and five all told) would be my favorite. Serena doesn't have the command on grass that Venus does. After watching Maria Sharapova fight out four wins here, maybe she deserves consideration.
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Can we extend today's chat longer because there are so many questions?
Greg Garber (12:07 PM)
Dude, I'm slamming on three stories right now. This is Dominika Cibulkova's first 15 minutes of fame and Soderling deserves some love. Checking out on time -- 1 PM EST...
Nishant, NJ
Greg, why do you consistently discount Roger's victory (Madrid) over Nadal due to fatigue. Nadal is 22 years old, he should be able to recover. Please stop making excuses for Nadal. He is often considered the fittest player on the tour.
Greg Garber (12:10 PM)
Beacause, Nishant, it's true. His last few osses on clay have all come when he was exhausted -- Federer's win in Hamburg ended an 80-something win streak on clay. Those who were in Madrid say that Nadal wasn't moving well -- how could he after going four hours with Djokovic .
Suraj (Novi, MI)
Hey greg how u doin? Being a huge nadal supporter, it was tough sunday to see him lose. However it does bring into question the rankings. Nadal is going to lose a lotta points from the french open. Given that he has wimbledon to defend, and several hard court tournaments (while federer played very poorly in montreal and cincinatti last year), could federer regain the #1 ranking this year? I am no points expert but I thought i'd get your opinion on this issue.
Greg Garber (12:13 PM)
Suraj: I have forwarded your question to Greg Sharko of the ATP World Tour. Hopefully, he gets back to us...
Wilson (NYC)
It is unreal that Soderling couldn't take two games off of Nadal a few months ago, and whupped him so decisevely this week. How would you explain this?
Greg Garber (12:15 PM)
Yes, Wilson, that was what was so baffling. He got blown off the curt in Rome and then... poof! - he was Super man. Sure, he played great but Rafa was hitting a ot of shrt balls and was clearly beat. I'll bet he doesn't play Madrid next year if it stays in the same spot on the calendar...
George, NY
Any thoughts on networks not showing these matches live, thus hurting the sport?
Greg Garber (12:16 PM)
george: It's a tough one. Tennis doesn;t get ratings and the French gets the worst of the four Slams. The good news? If you watch long enugh on ESPN and Tennis Channel, you'll see what you need to see.
Juan (Boston)
Murray will be #2 if Fed loses tomorrow. I think Fed gets frustrated with Monfils' defense and starts making errors. Agree?
Greg Garber (12:17 PM)
Juan: Murray is going down right now to Gonzo ... Lost the third set 0-6. Ouch.
Mike (Boston)
Sharapova or Davydenko? Who mailed it in more?
Greg Garber (12:17 PM)
Mike: Good question. I'll say Davydenko. Sharaova fought hard at the end to avoid the dreaded double-bagel. Won two games and got the crowd pretty revved up...
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Could we get some doubles love...your picks for men's doubles, women's doubles, and mixed doubles?
Greg Garber (12:20 PM)
Zack: Just sat down with Liezel Huber for an item in The Latest Dirt. She's the top seed in women's doubles (with Cara Black) and mixed (with Bob Bryan) and made both semifinals so far. I'll take Liezel and Nestor-Zimonjic in men's doubles.They are tough.
Pramod (India)
Seems like Murray's on his way out. Is there anyone left in the draw that can stop Federer from strolling to the trophy? (I say that because he's only had to play average tennis so far and looks like no one else is left to push him)
Greg Garber (12:22 PM)
Pramrod, good to hear from you. Sure, both Monfils and Del Potro -- wo both have massive games -- could give Federer trouble, but I don't think he'll lose. Monfils is slowed by an aching knee. Del Potro -- not ready to win on clay.
Ben Tampa
I Say if Monfils beats Federer he wins the the French. You agree?
Greg Garber (12:23 PM)
Ben: Don't you just wonder when the French Gag factor will come in? It happens to all these gifted players at Roland Garros. At some oint he'll realize where he is. Probably on Wednesday against Federer.
John (Edison, NJ)
I would say Monfils is the favourite in his matchup with Federer. He has looked tremendous and Federer has looked very vulnerable. Agree/Disagree?
Greg Garber (12:24 PM)
John: See previous post.
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Since Nadal is out early does this give hope for take a short break, recharging his batteries, defending Wimbledon, and finally prevailing at the US Open?
Greg Garber (12:25 PM)
Yes. He's in the pool right now at home in Mallorca. Uncle Toni will be all over him in a few days to get his grass game on.
Wilson (NYC)
Does Fernando have a chance against Soderling? Does he match up well?
Greg Garber (12:26 PM)
Wilson: First ff, Murray's still hangig in there. That said, of course Gonzo has a chance. Soderling has been unconscious but he's got a very average Grand Slam record up to this point.
Michael Kent: (Houston, TX)
Isn't it crazy that top players in the world like Verdasco and Roddick can get so much better just by getting in shape? It's crazy that they haven't maxed themselves out already in an effort to be the best, especially Roddick.
Greg Garber (12:29 PM)
Michael: This is something that fascinates me too. These are already elite athletes, but clearly what separates the great from the good is work ethic. Jesse Levine, the young American was invited to hit with Federer a year ago in Dubai and he said it was 120 degrees on the court and Fed played for three hours - against three different partners. Agassi won two or three Slams after his prime because Gil Reyes worked him into such great shape. Murray has made the biggest strides in the last year.
Terry (An American in Paris!)
Greg, Soderling 2009 French = Tsonga 2008 Australian Open? Similar played styles, different surfaces, but both were star juniors who struggled for a while on tour, but had an unexpected breakthrough (including shocking victories over Nadal).. thoughts?
Greg Garber (12:34 PM)
Hey, Terry: Have you gotten out to see the tennis? I like your thought. Another thing: The French Open is famous for producing some crazy heroes. Remember Martin Verkerk in 2003? He was a club player in th Netherlands, who got hot at the right time and lost to Ferrero in the final. Where is he now?
Kim, PA
Did Roddick mail it in yesterday?
Greg Garber (12:37 PM)
Kim: There were times when it looked to me like he wasn't trying his hardest. Now, remember, Roddick is ne of the most earnest, hard-working guys to the Tour and unlike some guys (who shall remain nameless) have a reputation for tanking. Roddick was angry at the way he was playing and unhappy with the pro-Monfils crowd and the umpire who kept the match going into semi-darkness. I was surprised he was as civil as he was in his post-match press conference.
Rai(London)
Hi Greg. Men's draw has never been this interesting in a grand slam event since many years. Soderling might win it all, gonzo-murray winner isn't good enough to stop him in SF but i really want Fed to win this. Fed hasn't been this 'vulnereable' in people's mind since 2003, he might surprise everybody? What do you think about the women's side?
Greg Garber (12:38 PM)
Hey, Rai. I'll go with the chalk: Serena vs Safina. Tough surface for Seena, but she IS mentally tugher than Safina. Or ... is it time for her to win a Grand Slam?
John (Edison, NJ)
I understand the point about the gag factor. But Monfils played well last year vs Federer and has looked quite good despite that knee this year. He could have gagged vs Roddick, but totally destroyed him. Federer is the one who looks like he is feeling the pressure. I am pulling for Roger, I want to see history. But I have a feeling Monfils will play free and easy. He is expected to lose.
Greg Garber (12:39 PM)
John: Maybe, but w've seen this phenomenon too many times. Monfils is a joy to watch though.
Greg Garber (12:40 PM)
Programming note: Fernando Gonzalez is one game from winning his quarterfinal match with Andy Murray.
Dave (NJ)
Is Monfils 100% (from what you here)?
Greg Garber (12:40 PM)
No, he's got a patella issue. He had a press conference before the tournament -- to announce that he WASN'T pulling out. It was big news in France.
Rog (NYC)
A thought on Nadal. His game relies on extreme fitness, his game is very physical. With that game do you think he can still keep winning at 28 like fed is right now? I don't see that. And it's incredible how barely Fed gets injured. That's incredible. and his consistency.
Greg Garber (12:42 PM)
Rog: This is precisely th argumnent against Nadal catching Federer and Sampras in terms of Grand Slam titles. His game is so taxing, so physical. His tpspin rotates about 1000 times more per minute than anyone else -- that has to take a physical toll on all the ligaments (wrists, fingers, elbow, shoulder) involved.
Greg Garber (12:43 PM)
Whoops: Murray has just broken back in the fourth set. Serving at 4-5...
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Can you convince Agassi/Graf to enter mixed doubles next year?
Greg Garber (12:43 PM)
Hah! They'd beat a few of the teams out here...
George NY
I find it hard thinking Monfils can win against Roger. His lackluster effort against Mardy Fish at the US Open is still stuck in my mind.
Greg Garber (12:45 PM)
There are many who agree. On the other hand, wasn't that Tommy Haas who won the first two sets off Federer yesterday? What was that al about? Not a great stretch to think that Monfils, buyed by the pro-French crowd, could give him a match...
Greg Garber (12:46 PM)
He's done it! He's done it! Gonzalez has just taken down Murray. So the men's top-half semifinals are set: Soderling-Gonzalez,
Tommy: (Blacksburg, VA)
This has just been bothering me ever since I saw the Roddick-Monfils match yesterday. Are Monfils' fingernails about a foot long or am I just seeing things?
Greg Garber (12:47 PM)
Like his limbs, they are long. A foot might be a bit of a stretch.
John (NJ)
Are you surprised UNcle Tony spoke out at the French crowd?
Greg Garber (12:48 PM)
John: Just doing what every coach does -- protecting his guy.
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
What would be worse for Federer...losing before the final or losing in the final?
Greg Garber (12:49 PM)
Zack, we're going to have to get you to Paris next year ... This is a terrific question. Not sure, actually.
Dave (Washington DC)
Greg, What's going on with James Blake, do we have to wait for the US Open before he starts making some more noise?
Greg Garber (12:50 PM)
Dave: JB turns 30 this December. If you look at tennis history, he well past his prime. Be happy he made three Grand Slam quarters for his career and the top 10.
dixie, T&T
hey Greg, I hope federer wins it this year...I'm not sure he might have another chance at this title again...down here we believe babies bring blessings..who knows..maybe federer jr. is bringing him a blessing here....
Greg Garber (12:51 PM)
Dixie: I think you're right. Never, ever will he have a better chance to complete his set of Grand Slam trophies.
George (NY)
Does Federer play the rest of career pressure free if he wins this week?
Greg Garber (12:52 PM)
Not a chance. Wimbledon final versus Rafa? That's pressure.
Barbie, Lincoln, NE
That should be the most hard-hitting match in the tournament. It'll be easy to root for Gonzo - Sonderling is not a fan-friendly personality...
Greg Garber (12:52 PM)
Whack! Whack! Whack! Whack! Game over. Fun to watch, though.
Adam in Pittsfield
Andy Murray just lost. Are you going to write a Latest Dirt notebook on him?
Greg Garber (12:54 PM)
Adam: A point of discussion with tennis editor Matt Wilansky. I'm going with Cibulkova as the lead and Murray as the top item on the right side. Ok with you?
Tommy: (Blacksburg, VA)
I know she's young, but do you think Cirstea has what it takes to crawl up to the top of the women's rankings and stay there?
Greg Garber (12:56 PM)
Certainly to get in the top 10. She's part of this new generation of late teenagers who are breaking down the doors. Showed some real poise in the win against Jankovic on Monday. Has a real shot to ge to the semifinals; could beat Stosur.
Ken (NJ)
What is the over/under on winner/errors for Gonzo-Soderling?
Greg Garber (12:57 PM)
Hah! Soderling had 59 against Nadal, It's all about risk-reward.
Greg Garber (12:58 PM)
Well, that's it for me. Been a very lively hour. Bring your A Game tomorrow for Bonnie Ford, who steps to the plate at 12 noon EST on Wenesday.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:00 PM)
Hello to all you red dirt cowboys and cowgirls out there.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:01 PM)
Your thoughts on Kuznetsova taking Serena down, and Federer looking in control vs. Monfils?
John (Cincinnati, OH)
Wow. Is that the biggest win of Kuznetsova's career after the US Open title? It's the best victory in a tight match for sure, right?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:02 PM)
John, I just spoke to Martina Navratilova briefly in the players' lounge, and her answer to that would be yes. She called it a potentially career-breaking match that Kuznetsova was able to turn around.
Henry (Tampa)
Now that Serena is out do you think Safina cruises to win her first grand slam?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:04 PM)
Not sure it'll be a cruise, Henry, but she's still the favorite...
Raj (Philadelphia, PA)
Bonnie, it looks like we'll be having a Federer-Del Potro semifinal.. do you think Del Potro can pose any threat to Federer, considering how thoroughly Fed beat him both in Australia and in Madrid?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:06 PM)
The Madrid match was telling, since the slight altitude and harder surface should have given a little boost to JMdP... this is quite a different situation, but I still wouldn't be surprised to see Federer win in straight sets.
Richard (South Africa)
Surely if Federer wins the French Open there should be an asterix attached to it? Federer has to take the French Open from Nadal - like Ndal took Wimbledon from him...
Bonnie D. Ford (12:07 PM)
Hi Richard -- Sorry, I disagree. A title is a title.
Sean (San Francisco)
How would the Fed-Nadal rivalry be different if Nadal were right handed? It seems like Federer's kick serve would be much more difficult to handle for a righty. Thoughts?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:08 PM)
Interesting question, Sean. As you may know, Nadal actually IS a natural righty who learned to play left-handed, which is what gives some of his shots a different look. I've always felt their matchup was more about what Nadal does to Federer than the other way around.
Storm Dallas, TX
I've been searching the web but can't find anything. Whatever happened to Donald Young Jr. the ATP player that had some promise in 2008?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:11 PM)
Storm, D-Young's potential has been a subject of discussion for quite a few years, actually. He's suffering a lull, to put it mildly -- ranked #162 & has played only one ATP-level match this season, has been struggling in qualis and Challenger events.
George NY
If Roger wins the French, will we still hear - how can he be the GOAT if he couldn't beat one player
Bonnie D. Ford (12:12 PM)
Maybe, George, but not from me. I hate the GOAT debate.
Nikki Dai, CA
Biggest win of Sveta's career? Has she won the French yet? Beating Serena seems to be the measuring stick for women's tennis yet she's derided when she claims she's the best.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:14 PM)
Fair point, Nikki. In Serena's press conference today, she didn't dispute that Safina is the authentic No. 1. And yes, this is a HUGE win for Kuz, who avoided Groundhog Day.
Robert (Dallas, TX)
Just to comment on the fact that if safina wins it will be the second year in a row that the finalist comes the next year and wins the title.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:15 PM)
Yes, and that happens a lot in all sports if you think about it.
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
I'm excited for Wimbledon because I don't think we will see a Nadal v. Federer final...Djokovic & Murray and even Roddick can bring too much to the table to spoil.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:16 PM)
I still think it's a good possibility. I'll go out on a limb and say that we won't see Nadal and Djokovic go out as early as they did here.
Dennis (Denver)
Do you think Federer will go on another Slam run if he wins the French Open? Favorite at Wimbledon, or still Rafa?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:20 PM)
Don't know about a run, but in my opinion if he wins here, he'll have a lot of momentum going into Wimbledon.
Phillip (Nice, France)
Bonnie what does this Roland Garros mean for Wimbledon especially for Rafa? If Soderling could beat him by playing aggressively with pinpoint power on clay, wouldn't such tactics be even more successful on grass?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:25 PM)
HI Philip -- Yes, in theory. Soderling's having a wonderful tournament but let's not forget that he needs to prove himself consistently at this level.
Greg Garber (Paris, France)
Hey Bonnie, do you think there is any chance Pete Sampras could be joining us in Paris to watch the men's final if Federer makes it?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:26 PM)
You invite him, I'll make the dinner reservations.
Jason
In most years, Nadal and Djokovic play in the final weekend of the French, play the next week in a grass court warm up tournament, and then have one week off before Wimbledon. Both guys have looked exhausted in the late rounds of Wimbledon. Will the extra week of rest this year provide a big advantage to them (esp Nadal)?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:29 PM)
Jason, Nadal is playing the Queens tournament on grass next week... Djokovic is playing in Halle. Rest is good, but being eliminated in the early rounds of a Slam -- especially for a four-time defending champion -- is a pretty big emotional blow. I'm sure Nadal would have chosen to keep playing if he could have.
Larry (New York)
Trying to disparage Federer's legacy by saying he couldn't beat Nadal is absurd. Nadal to date has two non French slams and a game that leads itself to possible injuries down the line. In other words how long is Nadal's window. Federer's 16 straight Grand Slam semi's is as impressive as the 13 majors.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:30 PM)
Don't mean to contradict you, Larry, but Federer has 20 straight Slam semis...
Jonathan (New Orleans, LA)
Bonnie, how do you think Soderling will do against Gonzo in the semi? Also, if he gets through and plays Roger, what do you think his chances would be?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:31 PM)
I think I might make Soderling a slight favorite IF he keeps playing this assertively and doesn't suddenly realize where he is.
harry c.
Bonnie, was there any mention of the Soderling-Nadal Wimbledon incident in the press conferences. I am surprised that not more was made of this.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:31 PM)
It was raised. Both guys are tired of discussing it, and I can't blame them. I don't think it was a big factor in what did or didn't happen in their match here.
Terry (New York, NY)
Bonnie, don't you think that a hugely underrated aspect of Federer's game is his fitness? I never see him lose matches in Grand Slams due to physical fatigue. We often hear about Nadal's fitness (which he certainly has), but it seems that we are also constantly talking about his being tired. Obviously this is partially due to style of play, but still feel Fed is underrated in this aspect.. your thoughts?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:35 PM)
Most of the experts I have talked to about this think Federer could hit the gym a bit more. We're splitting hairs here as all the top players are fit. Federer is lighter on his feet, and that does mean he punishes his body less through the course of a season.
Wyatt (Lafayette, IN)
Is anyone in the media giving Del Potro or Gonzalez a chance to take down Federer, or has it just become a coronation piece for the lifetime slam?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:37 PM)
Hi Wyatt -- Nice to see your name in the queue. Simple answer is I think he's the clear favorite now, based on past record against these guys (5-0 vs. DP, 12-1 vs. Gonzo) and past experience in the late rounds of Slams. I actually think Soderling might give him the most trouble of the three.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:37 PM)
Great traffic today, folks... keep it coming.
Wyatt (Lafayette, IN)
I feel obligated to ask my annual question: Is there any promising young clay courters coming from US soil? I had a thought that Donald Young's game would adapt to clay well but there hasn't been any astounding results so far.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:38 PM)
Gotta like the way Alexa Glatch played here, although long term I believe her best surface will be hardcourt. Still, I really like the fact that she enjoys playing on clay and has no mental block about it.
dixie, T&T
hey Bonnie..do you think that with Nadal losing here so early and to someone who no one thought would beat him, that it would give other players greater hope in beating him in future matches...maybe they may start coming after him more now?....
Bonnie D. Ford (12:40 PM)
One loss is not going to give the field a lot of hope, I don't think. Had to happen here sometime.
DE (Baltimore, MD)
If Nadal loses Wimby, and the guy who wins FO wins Wimby as well, will there be a change in the No. 1 ranking this year?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:41 PM)
Haven't checked the algebra yet. Will get that to you by the end of the tournament.
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Do you see Venus as "the world number 3" behind Serena and Safina? Aside from the French she can easily challenge and succeed at the majors.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:42 PM)
Doesn't matter what I see, Zack... she's there because she earned the points.
Jonathan (New Orleans, LA)
You may have touched on this before, but what did you think about Serena's comments of her opponent "cheating" in the previous round? Did you find her approach on this distasteful at all?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:44 PM)
She was asked, and she answered honestly. Her opponent showed questionable sportsmanship.
George, NY
Haven't seen a lot of Del Potro matches, does he have the foot speed to hurt Federer? Seems as though he plays a power game which never matches up well against Roger.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:45 PM)
He moves well for a guy his size, but you're right, there's a reason Federer has never lost to him.
Raj (Philadelphia, PA)
Quick math on Federer/Nadal rankings points if Federer wins the French- Federer will have 11070 points and Nadal 13260.. a gap of almost 2200 points, meaning that Nadal (even with a first round loss at Wimbledon) will almost certainly stay #1 through that tournament
Bonnie D. Ford (12:45 PM)
Thanks Raj...
Bonnie D. Ford (12:45 PM)
Not sure how things would shape up for the rest of the year as the questioner wanted to know.
DE (Baltimore, MD)
Do you think Nadal lost because of the pressure, or because of the tactics and solid play of Soderling? In which case, what would have been Federer's chances if he would have played Nadal in the final here?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:47 PM)
Soderling outplayed Nadal that day, pure and simple. It would be a monumental achievement for Federer to do that here because of the matchup problem Nadal presents for him on the surface, not to mention the emotional baggage. Very different to be playing him, as Soderling did, with nothing much to lose.
Snow (NYC, NY)
Ok this is getting real old. For once can any of the Willliam sister give credit to an opponent? If a non American player continually shows that much poor sportsmanship I guarantee the media would bash them. Im sick of hearing excuses! Tennis players gain immortality by their grace on and off the court. While the sisters' tennis skills are undeniable I would hate for my kids to act or react they way these two have.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:49 PM)
Just throwing that up there, Snow, have seen other similar comments.
Nikita (New York, NY)
Over/Under: Number of years Roddick will remain the top US man- 2.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:51 PM)
Pretty bold -- who would you see supplanting him? Not sure I agree.
Jeff (White Plains, NY)
Cedric Pioline, Michael Chang and Goran Ivanisevic, what do they have in common? All lost to Sampras in a grand slam final. Was anyone screaming that Pete didn't have to beat Andre in the final? Of course not. 20 straight slam semis might never be duplicated on the men's side.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:53 PM)
It's sort of a Joe DiMaggio-type record, yes.
Nikita (New York, NY)
That wasn't a statement, it was supposed to be a question. I guess your answer would be "over" :)
Bonnie D. Ford (12:58 PM)
Sorry, didn't quite connect on that. I would say that of the "next tier," Sam Querrey has shown the most potential, but Roddick has played very consistently the last few seasons and his game continues to grow.
Richard (South Africa)
Experts say that Nadal's game is too physically taxing - at what age do you think he will be a non factor?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:59 PM)
Whoo boy Richard, I'm not nearly ready to prepare the guy's obit! I think he'll stick around for a long time.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:01 PM)
That's all we have time for today... you guys kept me hopping... please join Greg Garber tomorrow, same time, same place.
Greg Garber (12:01 PM)
Greetings, tennis fans. Our timing is terrific. Sam Stosur just drilled a forehand winner -- on the line? -- to beat Sevetlana Kuznetsova in a second-set tiebreaker. We will follow the action as we go along. That second set took 60 minutes - and that's our chat wndow, too. Bring on the questions...
cv (Houston)
How's the weather looking for the weekend at RG? Who would benefit most in either the men & women's events with cool & wet versus warm & windy conditions?
Greg Garber (12:03 PM)
cv: The weather has been uncharacterstically warm and not too humid. This is good for the servers and might help explain why Andy Roddick made it to the fourth round. Federer has been serving great, but Del Potro has that weapon as well.
Sid(Sydney,Australia)
I hate all this talk about an asterisk if Federer wins. It's not like Nadal missed the FO with an injury - he lost!! Not under Fed's control.
Greg Garber (12:07 PM)
Sid: This is coming up a lot in discussions at Roland Garros. I'm with you, Sid. It isn't Federer's fault that rafa, Djokovic and Murray all lost. In 20 years, no one will remember HOW he won the title (if he wins), they'll remember THAT he won. Interesting that Andre Agassi is supposed to be lfying in to present the trophy. Culd he hand Fed the cup -- completing his personal Grand Slam -- 10 years after Agassi completed HIS personal Grand Slam?
Temidayo. Lagos, Nigeria. [via mobile]
Hi Greg. Now that Rafa, Andy and Djoko are gone out early in the tournament, I can't wait to see what the new rankings will be like. I know Fed is not going to become No 1 yet but how close will he be and how far will the others be from him. Roger is forever my number 1 tennis player. Waiting for your answer.
Greg Garber (12:09 PM)
Temidayo: I asked this question yesterday and, apparently, nothing changes drastically except Fernando Gonzalez shoots back into the top 10. What it DOES do is tighten things up since Rafa was defending titlist points. If Federer wins th French and Wimbledon, then it's a conversaton.
Greg Garber (12:10 PM)
After a six-minute bathroom break, Kuznetsova and Stosur are even at 1-all in the third.
susan
when will espn show the federer match? why show a match that was shown live on tennis channel?
Greg Garber (12:11 PM)
Susan: I beieve ESPN is done. I think NBC has the men's semifinals on Friday. As always, check your local listings.
Barbie, Lincoln, NE
That should be the most hard-hitting match in the tournament. It'll be easy to root for Gonzo - Sonderling is not a fan-friendly personality...
Greg Garber (12:12 PM)
Barbie, that's true. Murray called Gonzo's forehand the best in the game. He does bang the ball and Soderling, when he flattens it out, isn't far behind. Gonzo has a vast edge in experience.
roger dodger
so should all of us fed fans be excited that fed is going to actually win the FO? or should we be on pins/needles hoping he's going to pull through? i think he'll get past delpotro, but i am scared of both soderling and gonzo. especially with his nerves!
Greg Garber (12:15 PM)
R/D: This is the conversation with fed Fans. I agree with Mary Carillo, who just tld me that with the drw opening up for Federer, it places WAY more pressure on him. He sort of acknowledged this yesterday in his press conference.
joe (nyc)
what are del porto's chances on friday? he has looked real solid all tournament.
Greg Garber (12:17 PM)
Good to have you aboard, Joe. He HAS looked solid, but Fed has his number. They've met five times. Roger, you may remember gave him three games in the first set of their quarters match in Melbourne -- and shut him out the rest of the way. in Madrid a few weeks ago, it was a respectable 6-3, 6-4, which is more what Federer says he expects. On the ther hand, with warm weather the serves are flying off Del Potro's racket. Rain in the forecast for Friday, might slow things down, though...
Greg Garber (12:18 PM)
Stosur-Kuznetsova now 2-2 in third...
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Do you think Dinara will win more slam titles than Marat?
Greg Garber (12:20 PM)
Zack, nice to see you're in vintage chat mode. This is a good one. I believe she will win here on Saturday, so give her one to Marat's two. Given the state of the game, the age of the Williams sisters and even considering the comeback of Kim Clijsters -- who will contend -- I'll say she wins one or two more. She's had the look of a champion here the last two weeks.
Jason (Toronto)
Would Sam Stosur be the most unlikely FO finalist in history? I can't think of too many others.
Greg Garber (12:24 PM)
Jason: Stosur WAS seeded here (No. 30) ... Flipping through the Roland Garros media guide ... Gustavo Kuerten was ranked No. 66 when he won here in 1997 ... Gaston Gaudio was also lower, ranked No. 44 when he won in 2004 .... On the women's side, Mima Juasovec made the final here in 1983 as an unseeded player, while Nadia Petrova was an unseeded semifinalist in 2003.
Liz NYC
Hey Jason, what about Verkerk? He was a pretty unlikely French finalist!
Greg Garber (12:26 PM)
Nice work, LIz. One of my favorite French stories ever. Dutch club player comes out of nowehere to make the 2003 final, losing to the king, Juan Carlos Ferrero.
joe (nyc)
am I the only person alive that is praying federer loses this weekend?
Greg Garber (12:26 PM)
Joe: Just you and Gonzo/Soderling and their camps.
Greg Garber (12:27 PM)
Kuznetsova has just broken Stosur to take a 4-2 lead ... Of course, she's Kuznetsova ... stay tuned..
Raj (Philadelphia, PA)
Greg, I know Kuznetsova's in great shape and will have a day off before the final (if she wins this match), but isn't the duration of the quarter/semifinal matches going to affect her?
Greg Garber (12:28 PM)
Not sure, Raj. She played Serena for nearly three hours and survived. The best of three sets helps the women's recover. I imagine she'd be fine.
Joe (Dayton, OH)
Here's an interesting stat: del Potro has broken Federer once in five meetings (on faster surfaces).
Greg Garber (12:29 PM)
Joe, that's you digging deep. Big stat Fed 12-0 in sets.
Richard (South AFrica)
I'm a huge Nadal and Sampras Fan - i'm praying that federer loses!
Greg Garber (12:30 PM)
As is your right, Richard. Most in Paris are rooting for Roger to get the W and draw even with Pistol Pete.
Evan(Ann Arbor,MI)
No one has consistantly dominated men's tennis like Fed has done since 2004. 20 straight semis in EVERY slam something even the mighty Sampress can't claim. Why then are there so many people questioning him and doubting him? Not taking anything away from what Nadal has been able to do these last couple years, but until he wins consistantly on multiple surfaces I just can't see how people can say he is the greatest player. Greatest clay court playing possibly. And this slump people claim Fed is having, I mean Fed was only a couple pts away from taking wimbledon and australian open. I think that gap people talk about between Fed and Nadal is closer then what people are making out to seem.
Greg Garber (12:32 PM)
Well done, Evn. Looking further: Fed said yesterday he was amazed at having 20 Grand Slam semis -- not to menton that they ae consecutive. Quick -- How many GS semis did Sampras make? Answer: 22, the same as Fed. One more: How many Grand Slams did Sampras need to win 14? And where is Fed at? Answers to come.
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
What do Dementieva and Jankovic have to do in order to win slam title #1?
Greg Garber (12:34 PM)
Nice of you to remmeber our fallen, Zack. They have to show some nerve. With dementieva, it's not a lack of game -- she can hit ground strokes from the baseline with anyone. It's her confidence in big moments. Jankovic is a brilliant defender but doesn't have quite enough pop to get those free points on her serve and muscle folks form the baseline. I see JJ breaking through before Big D.
William Robles: New York NY [via mobile]
If Faderer winning the open?
Greg Garber (12:34 PM)
The U.S. Open? If he wins the French and Wimbledon, I'll take Murray...
Greg Garber (12:36 PM)
OK, here's the deal with the last women's semifinal: Kuznetsova is serving at 5-3 for the match. She's been in this spot many times -- in 2004 and 2005 here and she's failed to close the deal. Ooops. It's love-15...
Raj (Philadelphia, PA)
Along the lines of Evan's question- Federer is (this is unbelievable!) 125-2 in Grand Slams within this 20 semifinals streak in all matches vs. players not named Nadal. His only losses outside to those against Nadal in this time (in Slams) came to Safin and Djokovic in Australian semifinals. Unbelievable
Greg Garber (12:37 PM)
Raj: You're on the short list when/if the AP World Tour is looking for help in the research department.
Greg Garber (12:37 PM)
Yikes! 30-30...
Holman
once again, serena told everyone that she lost and her opponent didn't win. does she realize how bad this makes her look?
Greg Garber (12:38 PM)
Kuznetsova crushes a forehand winner .. match point against Stosur.
Greg Garber (12:39 PM)
Stosur forehand in net ... Kuznetsova, whose only Slam is the 2004 U.S. Open, is half of an all-Russian final, against Dinara Safina. Hopefully its better than the last all-Russian final here, won by Anastasia Myskina...
Chad (Las Vegas)
Kuzzy wins!
Evan(Ann Arbor,MI)
Kudos to Raj!!! Sometimes as fans and media we tend to look for the next bigtime player and forget to appreciate whats really happening, FED rewriting history as we speak.
Greg Garber (12:40 PM)
True enough.
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
What do you think of Roddick's chances on grass, being a two-time finalist and having a serve that allows him to play quick points? I think he easily has the ability to make the semi-finals and possibly another final.
Greg Garber (12:42 PM)
This is what I was thinking, Zack, after he reached the fourth round here. But remember, the grass at Wimbedon isn't as sippery (or short) as it used to be. In fact, maybe all the surfaces are becoming the same. Murray and Gonzalez both said the clay here is playing fast, more like a hard ccurt tahn usual.
Larry (NY)
Why the hate from those rooting against Federer. I was as big as Sampras fan as anyone but Roger has done nothing but project class his whole stellar career. This isn't a jerk like Connors or McEnroe. Can you explain?
Greg Garber (12:44 PM)
Larry: You're always going to get folks who are fans of the players of the past -- it's why oldies radio stations exist. Sampras is a class act - wonder if he'd come to Wimbledon to give Roger the trophy that breaks the record?
Greg Garber (12:45 PM)
Trivis answer: Sampras won his 14th major title in his 52nd Grand Slam appearance. This is only Federer's 40th...
Fed Fan
But come on, between the Nadal mountain and the current pressure, if he was allowed to pick one I think I know which one he picks.
Greg Garber (12:45 PM)
Bingo!
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
If Kunetzova wins, do you see it as THAT big of an upset? Yes Safina has been on fire, but Sveta beat her a couple of weeks ago and she has been a finalist here before. I think Sveta will have to win in 2 sets because if it goes to a 3rd I think Safina can grind longer.
Greg Garber (12:46 PM)
It's actually an interesting match. One of these days, Safina is going to win a major. Why not on Saturday?
Evan(Ann Arbor,MI)
Greg, I think if you ever needed an understudy Zack you be a great candidate. I see his name on here just as much as yours!
Greg Garber (12:46 PM)
More.
Richard (South Africa)
Do you think Nadal bounces back from this loss?
Greg Garber (12:47 PM)
Richard: Like he always does. He'll be a bear to deal with at Wimbledon.Shoud be a fun tournament.
Chad (Las Vegas)
Maybe we can get Raj to research this. Name Sampras' 14 opponents in his 14 grand slam wins and name Federers' 13 (soon to be 14) opponents? I bet they aren't all big names.
Greg Garber (12:49 PM)
Chad: Just did a quick look, Sampras beat a ot of big names: Agassi, Courier, Rafter, Chang, Moya, etc. Not too mnay weak names there.
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Everyone is always comparing Nadal to Borg as to who was the better clay courter...I personally say Nadal is better, if so then is Borg is front of Federer? I would say so.
Greg Garber (12:51 PM)
Here's some food for thought: Rafa is now 31-1 here? Borg was 49-2. Can Rafa match that? In light of what we saw here, maybe not.
Richard (South Africa)
I read somewhere that Sampras would travel to the tournament should Federer break his record - out of respect for the record.
Greg Garber (12:52 PM)
I believe he would...
Jordon (Phoenix, AZ)
Do you still think Serena Williams is the best in the women's game, even though she didn't make it to the Finals at the French? I think a show-down between the two would have been nice on clay....
Greg Garber (12:54 PM)
This is the debate going forward if Safina winson Saturday. She's No. 1 and Serena was challenging here because she hasn't won a Slam. Funny thing? Maria Sharapova or Venus Williams could win at Wimbledon and then you have a whole different discussion going into the U.S. Open...
Evan(Ann Arbor,MI)
Whats the odds of getting players to all use wooden raquets for a whole tournement. It would be interesting to see how their groundstrokes are affected without all this technology.
Greg Garber (12:54 PM)
Throwback Tournament. Make it happen, Evan. Find a few sponsors and you're in...
Evan(Ann Arbor,MI)
The best situation would be Nadal flying into Paris to hand the trophy to Fed. Maybe we would have another story of Fed crying on the court if this happens.
Greg Garber (12:55 PM)
Hah! That's beautiful. Make THAT happen.
joe (nyc)
i dont think uncle toni will mkae the same mistakes again. look for nadal to play alot less next year, focusing his schedule around staying fresh for the majors.
Greg Garber (12:56 PM)
Yes. For sure. Madrid in the rear-view mirror.
Chad (Las Vegas)
Here are Sampras' victories in Slams: Sampras 90 US Agassi 93 Wim Courier 93 US Pioline 94 Aus Martin 94 Wim Ivanisevic 95 Wim Becker 95 US Agassi 96 US Chang 97 Aus Moya 97 Wim Pioline 98 Wim Ivanisevic 99 Wim Agassi 00 Wim Rafter 02 US Agassi
Greg Garber (12:56 PM)
Thanks, Chad, for your pubic service...Not a bad list.
Raj (Philadelphia, PA)
Greg, do you think this is the best time in men's tennis since the mid 1990s? Two all-time great players leading the way, guys in their early 20s (Djokovic, Murray, now Del Potro) chasing them, and a bunch of other talented guys emerging (Tsonga, Monfils come to mind quickly), not to mention a resurgent Andy Roddick.. your thoughts?
Greg Garber (12:57 PM)
it's alays dangerous to say "best" but in terms of depth at the top, I think you might be right.
dixie, T&T
you know its amazing...although alot of people don't seem to like the William sisters..they are still a big factor in tennis...I mean, for alot of people...beating them in a match is a big thing ...like career defining and all of that...
Greg Garber (12:58 PM)
Greetings, Dixie. When you're on top, you have a target on your back.
Greg Garber (1:00 PM)
Man, that was a fast hour. Thanks for playing our game, all of you. Bonnie Ford comes back on Friday for one last full-blown French Open chat, at 12 noon EST. Talk with you at Wimbledon.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:01 PM)
Bonjour all... is Roger Federer about to say au revoir? Where has Robin Soderling been all our lives? Your thoughts please.
John
This Del Potro v Federer match is giving me a Safin v Sampras US Open vibe; looking not so good for Fed.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:02 PM)
He doesn't look at ease, John -- digging himself a hole just as he has a couple of times here...
Wilson (NYC)
Let's continue the discussion post-Nadal knee injury, shall we? Not so smart for the ATP to run the players into the ground on behalf of tournaments' health. Better to have the stars prolong their careers than financially support too many tournaments, no?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:04 PM)
Hi Wilson. As you may know by now, Nadal has withdrawn from the Queens grass court tournament that is an important Wimbledon tuneup, citing his knee problems.
Astrid (Indonesia) [via mobile]
hello, i just want to ask you.. What do you think about Djokovic? Does heve a chance to win one of grand slam this year ?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:10 PM)
Hi Astrid. I certainly expect Djokovic to be in the mix for both Wimbledon and the US Open.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:12 PM)
Folks, I appreciate your various concerns/complaints about TV coverage... but I'm just an internet hack with no pull or insider knowledge.
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
What does Kunetzova have to do tomorrow to win the French?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:13 PM)
Stay cool and try to run Safina into the ground. Two tall orders.
Jason Tennessee
Whatever happened to Anastasia Myskina?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:16 PM)
The '04 French Open champion had a baby, and is working for Russian TV now...
Jim (LA)
Does Nadal really have knee problems or just needs a nice rest?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:17 PM)
Hi Jim. Yes, he really does. But I'm sure rest is a priority as well.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:18 PM)
For those of you not able to follow in real time, Del Potro is serving at 5-all in the second set... critical juncture here
Bonnie D. Ford (12:20 PM)
Raj, see the transcript below... can't be of help on the TV questions.
John
How is Del Potro's fitness? Will he tire if Federer can extend the match?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:22 PM)
It's possible, but I don't see him coming back from two sets down unless he lifts his level considerably.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:23 PM)
Here we go into the second-set tiebreak... a match maker or breaker in my opinion.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:24 PM)
DP swats forehand into the net off a high bouncing Federer defensive backhand...
Bonnie D. Ford (12:24 PM)
crowd going a bit nuts.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:25 PM)
Fed now up 3-0... DP backhand into the net. DP about to serve.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:26 PM)
DP lashes deep forehand that RF can't handle... 3-1 RF
Bonnie D. Ford (12:26 PM)
Another BH error by DP... 4-1
Bonnie D. Ford (12:27 PM)
DP forehand into the net... RF used his slice well in that rally. 5-1.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:28 PM)
RF forehand winner. Quintuple set point.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:28 PM)
DP serving...
Bonnie D. Ford (12:28 PM)
DP ace. 6-2
Bonnie D. Ford (12:29 PM)
DP forehand long... RF gives a prmal howl. One set all.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:29 PM)
OK. Back to the questions...
Matt Wilburton, OK [via mobile]
Man Soderling really had his work cut out for him and proved himself. I hope Federer pulls through though.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:31 PM)
Hi Matt. Spoke to Swedish great Anders Jarryd after the match and he said Soderling's rally in the fifth set "never would have happened a year ago... Absolutely not." I hope this isn't a flash in the pan from him, he's an exciting player to watch when he's on.
dixie, T&T
I'm enjoying your updates on the match bonnie...especially since I'm at work...thank you
Bonnie D. Ford (12:31 PM)
Thanks, Dixie... will do my best. The players are just coming back from the changeover.
Vikas (Chicago, IL)
Which is better for Soderling in the finals--Del Potro or Federer?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:32 PM)
For sure, Del Potro. No intimidation factor there. If Federer is in the final, the crowd will be passionately in his corner.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:32 PM)
Federer down 0-30 in his first service game...
Bonnie D. Ford (12:33 PM)
Del Potro is just crushing the ball. Wouldn't want to be in the way of that.
Claud (NYC)
Dying without tv access - who has the momentum now, did Fed grab it with the tiebreaker or does it seem even? Did he up his game in the second set or did DP falter? help a girl out!
Bonnie D. Ford (12:34 PM)
DP has a break point...
Bonnie D. Ford (12:34 PM)
DP just converts on a crosscourt forehand winner. So much for the tiebreak momentum
Zack, Harrisonburg, Virginia
If Federer loses, what is that going to do to his confidence? I think it could be quite horrific.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:36 PM)
No argument there, Zack.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:36 PM)
RF just landed a lovely drop shot.
Kyle (Madison,WI)
A little off topic, but I really think that Roddick has a chance to go even as far as the final at Wimbledon this year the way things are shaping out with the BIG 4 and after the recent overhaul in his game, what do you think Bonnie?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:39 PM)
I would never count a two-time finalist out, Kyle.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:39 PM)
DP holds, doesn't look like he was rattled by losing the tiebreaker.
Andy (KC,MO) [via mobile]
Are Soderling and Del Potro for real? Or are we to never see these two challenge again for a slam title i.e. Gaudio, Johansson, Krajicek, Costa, etc.?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:40 PM)
They're for real right now... this Slam has produced some One-Hit Wonders, but it wouldn't be fair to judge that now. Soderling is older but both still have a lot of upside.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:41 PM)
DP just came all the way from behind the baseline to angle a volley winner... RF was up 40-0, now 40-30
Bonnie D. Ford (12:42 PM)
RF holds with a smash volley.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:43 PM)
DP to serve up a break, 2-1.
patrick tucson arizona [via mobile]
Do U Think That Ana Ivanovic Has What It Take To Win Another Grand Slam And Also Become World Number One Again
Bonnie D. Ford (12:44 PM)
We'll see... first key is staying healthy.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:45 PM)
RF getting a little into DP's service game... 15-30
Bonnie D. Ford (12:45 PM)
DP ace evens it out
Claud (NYC)
So .. is DP playing out of his mind? Is Fed choking? Some combination of the two?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:46 PM)
I wouldn't say RF is choking, he just doesn't look his sharpest, and DP is serving extremely well. 12 aces to RF's 3. He just held & is now up 3-1.
John
Federer is kinda living on his serve and touch shots; he doesn't have the rhythm from the baseline.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:47 PM)
Yup, just smacked another forehand long... and another. down 0-30
Andy (KC, MO)
So that I can get back to work and not have to keep up with the live slam tracker, who is gonna win this?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:49 PM)
Left my crystal ball at home, Andy... but it's not looking great for Federer right now. DP has another break point.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:49 PM)
RF saves one with an overhead.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:49 PM)
RF saves one with an overhead.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:50 PM)
DP loops a forehand JUST wide so they're back to deuce.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:50 PM)
... DP frames one... ad Federer
Bonnie D. Ford (12:51 PM)
Game, Federer.
Raj (Philadelphia,PA)
Del Potro's average first serve speed is almost 130 mph, and he seems to be hitting his shots with more authority than even 6 months ago.. do you know if he consciously has sought to improve his strength, much like Andy Murray did?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:52 PM)
He looks like he might have spent some time in the gym... his ball sounds nuclear.
clr
No going back to work for me - thank you thank you for the updates
Bonnie D. Ford (12:52 PM)
I'm only on for a few more minutes, folks... sorry.
dixie, T&T
oh dear...what is Fed doing to his fans right now....
Bonnie D. Ford (12:54 PM)
DP just double-faulted, there's hope for you, Dixie!
Bonnie D. Ford (12:54 PM)
RF just misfired on a forehand. Now 15-30 DP serving leading 3-2.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:55 PM)
30-all on a DP forehand winner.
clr
Seriously, isn't it about time DP wakes up and realizes where he is, and who's across the net? What's the point of being in the stupid GOAT conversation if you can't induce a couple of good chokes now and again?
Bonnie D. Ford (12:56 PM)
DP's staying unconcscious for the moment.
Bonnie D. Ford (12:56 PM)
Now deuce after a loose backhand netted by DP
Bonnie D. Ford (12:57 PM)
.. but he gets the ad with a terrific serve that handcuffs RF
Bonnie D. Ford (12:57 PM)
... and he holds. DP now up 4-2 in the third set.
John
Please no more GOAT talk unless it eats grass and climbs the himalayas.
Ford (Houston)
has fed had a break point on del potro's serve?
Bonnie D. Ford (1:00 PM)
Fed has had two break points, hasn't converted.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:03 PM)
Folks -- I am staying on to update you, by popular demand.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:03 PM)
Not sure how long I'll be able to hang with it, work may intrude, please vote with your comments and questions.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:04 PM)
DP is serving for the set.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:04 PM)
... and he's up 40-0...
Bonnie D. Ford (1:06 PM)
He seals it with a wicked , wicked forehand that could have blasted a hole through a battleship... Federer hit it wide up the line. DP leads 2 sets to 1.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:06 PM)
He seals it with a wicked , wicked forehand that could have blasted a hole through a battleship... Federer hit it wide up the line. DP leads 2 sets to 1.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:07 PM)
Best point of the set/match was a doubles-ish point with four volley exchanges... won by DP... wow
Bonnie D. Ford (1:08 PM)
Here we go... Fed serving to start the fourth.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:08 PM)
Chaos in the press room here by the way... reporters are tearing up their half-written finals previews.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:09 PM)
15-all, RF jawing at the umpire about something.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:10 PM)
Slice backhand lands just short, RF in the hole again on his service, 15-30
Bonnie D. Ford (1:10 PM)
DP returns long, 30-all
Bonnie D. Ford (1:10 PM)
Quite cool and breezy here by the way...
Bonnie D. Ford (1:11 PM)
RF just barely misses a forehand long, now deuce
Bonnie D. Ford (1:11 PM)
DP shanks one, ad RF
Bonnie D. Ford (1:12 PM)
RF badly misses a backhand wide from the baseline. Deuce
Bonnie D. Ford (1:13 PM)
DP returns long twice, Fed's serve looked a bit better there... he wins and they're changing ends.
Jim (LA)
How much more are the crowd rooting for Fed over DP?
Bonnie D. Ford (1:14 PM)
The crowd is sort of stunned, but clearly in Federer's corner when he allows them to be...
Jeremy (New York)
Does it look like maybe Fed can pull another 2 set rally like he did against Haas?
Bonnie D. Ford (1:15 PM)
Very tough with the way DP is competing.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:16 PM)
Wow, funny point -- Fed hit a defensive lob he thought was long, it landed in, then DP killed an overhead that went way long andbetween RF's legs... yikes
Bonnie D. Ford (1:17 PM)
RF just bent a running forehand around the net post and it's deuce...
Bonnie D. Ford (1:17 PM)
but hands the ad back to DP with an error
sol (providence, ri)
in your opinion is federer playing below his level or is del potro just better than him today? does it look like federer has a comeback in him like against haas or is his confidence just gone at this point? thanks for taking the time to answer!
Bonnie D. Ford (1:18 PM)
To your first question, both, Sol...
Bonnie D. Ford (1:18 PM)
though he just cracked a heckuva forehand winner...
Bonnie D. Ford (1:18 PM)
back to deuce
Bonnie D. Ford (1:19 PM)
Federer now has a break point. Maybe the biggest point of the match for him.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:19 PM)
Can't convert, low backhand into the net.
Claud (NYC)
Is there anything in the previous encounters between these two that suggests DP was capable of this? What do you make of it?
Bonnie D. Ford (1:20 PM)
In a word, no... Fed crushed DP in Madrid last month and is 5-0 vs him lifetime
Bonnie D. Ford (1:21 PM)
After a DP ace, on next point Federer hits a passing shot. Beautifully played. Back to deuce.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:22 PM)
ad back to DP. one of the longest games of the match right here.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:22 PM)
DP volley winner. now 1-all. Federer's going to regret letting that break point slip between his strings.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:23 PM)
DP steps to the net after a long rally where RF tried to hold his ground on the baseline, and cracks another winner. It's not looking good, Fed fans.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:23 PM)
15-all on Fed's serve...
Dave (NC)
Will Federer regain the number one ranking if he wins in the final?
Bonnie D. Ford (1:24 PM)
No Dave -- Nadal assured of hanging on at least through Wimbledon.
Ford (Houston)
what is fed's first serve percentage? seems love from my awesome vantage point on the internet.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:25 PM)
Believe it or not, he's serving 73% for the set and 64% for the match...
Manny (Philly)
I'm not sure if Fed can pull the Haas trick here, given the way DP is playing - the guy seemed to determined to win; probably Fed needs to break him, just once
Bonnie D. Ford (1:26 PM)
OK, dusk is beginning to fall here... we're on serve in the fourth set. DP serving at 1-2.
Bob
This match shows historical data isn't perfect for predicting the future. Should factor in pressure all on Fed; others gained belief from Rafa's loss. If Rafa can be beaten, so can anyone else.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:27 PM)
Fed forehand winner stepping into the court... 15-all
Ryan (Seatlle)
How is Fed?s body language? Negative or positive?
Bonnie D. Ford (1:28 PM)
He's not slouching, Ryan, but his facial expression is quite tense.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:28 PM)
30-all now...
graham (wyoming)
hi bonnie, if federer loses this match do you see him winning another major now that he doesn't only have nadal to compete with in the future but also nole, murray, del potro etc etc?... even roddick gave him a tough match in madrid (on clay!)
Bonnie D. Ford (1:30 PM)
His path will get harder and harder, Graham, just as Sampras' did. Don't forget, Pete didn't win a TOURNAMENT for two years before winning his last major at the 2002 USO...
Joe (Gainesville, FL)
Has he jawed at the judge anymore? Any frustration from Fed?
Bonnie D. Ford (1:30 PM)
No, both players are very focused, no interaction.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:30 PM)
DP just DFed, it's deuce.
Noah (Seattle)
Is Federer making use of the drop shot as much as expected? My question is whether the difficulty he's having is exacerbated by tactics, or whether it's simply missing too many shots against a strong opponent.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:31 PM)
Noah, it's worked for him a couple of times, but DP is moving really well, getting to everything.
Chad (Las Vegas)
How long until they suspend the match due to darkness?
Bonnie D. Ford (1:32 PM)
It's clouded over but they have played at least until 9-9:30 local time (two hours from now) so that is not a concern yet.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:32 PM)
We do need the rain to hold off though...
Bonnie D. Ford (1:33 PM)
Drop shot winner by RF. Who just asked me about that? Very prescient. Ad Federer, another critical break point.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:33 PM)
Wow... DP missed maybe his first approach shot of the match. Fed breaks.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:34 PM)
He's up 3-1. If that doesn't put a spring in his step I don't know what will...
Joe (Gainesville, FL)
To build on what Graham asked: Could it be true that the French Open, not just Nadal, is Federer's nemesis?
Bonnie D. Ford (1:34 PM)
Don't think you can say that about a three-time finalist...
Depressed Fed Fan Regains Glimmer of Hope
Has the crowd gotten over being stunned, did the break give folks a charge?
Bonnie D. Ford (1:35 PM)
The decibel level is higher...
Bonnie D. Ford (1:36 PM)
Fed holds at love. Massive boost.
clr
espn, by the way, has won my loyalty forever by prolonging this chat
Bonnie D. Ford (1:36 PM)
We thank you! It's a little nerve-wracking for yours truly, but I'm trying to emulate Robin Soderling and stay cool
Lanny (Tokyo)
None of this match matters...Soderling is just playing TOO GOOD...he wins the French Open
Jaque in Paris
If this Federer squares the match do you think the pressure will begin to get to DP?
Bonnie D. Ford (1:37 PM)
Seems natural to speculate that.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:39 PM)
15-30 on DP's serve
Bonnie D. Ford (1:40 PM)
DP's crosscourt forehand gets him out of the hole. It's a laser.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:40 PM)
backhand error by DP. Fed has another break point.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:40 PM)
service winner. deuce
Sat (KC,MO)
If this goes to 5, i am picking fedex. I never root for fed btw.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:41 PM)
Fed return winner... a cracker, hits square on the line
Bonnie D. Ford (1:41 PM)
BP #2
Bonnie D. Ford (1:42 PM)
DF by DP, Fed now up 5-1
Bonnie D. Ford (1:42 PM)
He didn't contest it... just walked away. Fed underlined the mark, the chair checked it and... hmm, the momentum seems to have shifted.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:43 PM)
Fed playing at a quicker pace now, aces on set point again (love game) and we're on to the 5th...
Claud (NYC)
This sounds like a combo of DP nerves (the DF) and Fed picking it up. Correct?
Bonnie D. Ford (1:44 PM)
I don't think it's nerves. DP is still bludgeoning the ball, but not getting every bounce... Fed has picked it up
Margaret (DSM, IA)
Just goes to show that you can never quite count Fed out....
Bonnie D. Ford (1:45 PM)
Apparently.
Ford (Houston)
DP's body language? he sagging? what do you expect out of him in the fifth?
Bonnie D. Ford (1:46 PM)
I think it's going to be all about the serve for him, dictating the tempo.
Robert (Seattle, WA)
What are the projected weather conditions tomorrow, and how will that impact a Soderling/Fed matchup?
Bonnie D. Ford (1:47 PM)
Light rain is predicted on Sat. and Sun mornings, we're hoping that's all it is.
Bonnie D. Ford (1:47 PM)
Folks, I need to take a short break, will be back shortly... stay tuned
Bonnie D. Ford (2:02 PM)
I'm back...
Bonnie D. Ford (2:02 PM)
And so is Federer, serving up 2-1.
Bonnie D. Ford (2:04 PM)
Unbelievable rally on game point, both guys running for their lives, ended by Federer forehand winner. He's up 3-1
Bonnie D. Ford (2:05 PM)
Just stunning that Fed has won 9 of the last 11 games with the way DP was playing prior...
John
Yes! Maybe he is in the clear now? I mean with his mental edge against non-Nadals
Bonnie D. Ford (2:06 PM)
Make no mistake, he is having to dig as hard as he has against anyone. Doesn't matter which player he's facing this tournament -- fighting himself every match
Bonnie D. Ford (2:06 PM)
30-all on DP's serve now.
Bonnie D. Ford (2:07 PM)
Those of you just joining us -- welcome. The match is not being televised live in the U.S..
Mike(San Diego)
Even though Roger hasn't won at the French, could he still be considered top 5 all time on clay? I say yes because he consistantly loses to the guy who is probably #1 all time.
Bonnie D. Ford (2:08 PM)
Mats Wilander gave us his top three all time clay courters earlier today: Nadal, Borg, Fed. Great topic for discussion.
Bonnie D. Ford (2:08 PM)
Deuce. Fed volley winner after DP scooped up a ball we thought was out...
Bonnie D. Ford (2:08 PM)
BTW, I just saw the most amazing sight during my short break: People leaving the stadium. Can't imagine.
Bonnie D. Ford (2:09 PM)
Chad, actually had to do a quick interview I had promised.
Taurus,Pascagoula,MS [via mobile]
I want to say thank u Bonnie D.
Bonnie D. Ford (2:09 PM)
You're welcome!
Brian (Melbourne, Florida)
If Federer wins this match, who do you think will be more at a disadvantage from playing a five-set match today, him or Robin Soderling?
Bonnie D. Ford (2:11 PM)
Great question. Soderling played back to back five setters and crushed Davydenko... I think with a day of rest there's not much difference.
Ford (Houston)
leaving????? i've read mixed reports from the french fans, about how night matches wouldn't work because they wouldn't stay, but others say they're great fans, if not a little quick to jump on someone. your thoughts?
Bonnie D. Ford (2:12 PM)
I've just never been able to leave a sporting event early myself.
Clawar1 (San Diego, CA)
Are you sitting in a studio or the crowd? I am amazed that you can provide such quick feedback in a chat! Great Job!
Bonnie D. Ford (2:12 PM)
I'm in the press room. Giving up my seat outside for y'all... but it's worth it!
Bonnie D. Ford (2:12 PM)
DP has a break point...
Bonnie D. Ford (2:13 PM)
just when you thought it was safe to go back into the water... DP breaks, we're back on serve.
Bonnie D. Ford (2:13 PM)
The Argentines in the crowd are chanting "Ole" in World Cup style...
Eliza (NY)
Leaving??! They shouldn't be allowed back in. Ever. What is D-Po's body language like now?
Bonnie D. Ford (2:15 PM)
DP misses a first serve with an ambulance siren wailing in the backrgound
Bonnie D. Ford (2:15 PM)
Just hit a forehand wide for 0-30, but I swear he;s lost no power off his shots in three hours.
Bonnie D. Ford (2:16 PM)
Passing winner by Fed for triple break point. I think I'm getting dizzy from all the momentum swings.
Bonnie D. Ford (2:16 PM)
Fantastic topspin forehand by DP netted by Fed. 15-40
Bonnie D. Ford (2:17 PM)
30-40
Bonnie D. Ford (2:18 PM)
Fed blocks back on a kick second serve and DP wallops it -- forehand winner and deuce. Blown chances for Fed.
Bonnie D. Ford (2:18 PM)
But DP misses a backhand and we have our 4th BP of the game...
Bonnie D. Ford (2:19 PM)
DF BY DP
Bonnie D. Ford (2:19 PM)
Fed gets the break -- and a lucky one it was
Bonnie D. Ford (2:20 PM)
so we've had three straight breaks of service if I'm counting right...forgive me if I'm not... Fed is up 4-3 after what we like to call The Critical Seventh Game
Bonnie D. Ford (2:20 PM)
Fed is serving 80 % in this set
Bonnie D. Ford (2:21 PM)
Fed just ran DP end to end like a bunny and won the first point
clr
Bonnie, I am happy to report that I have not gotten a single item of work done since this chat started. Thank you. And Go Fed!!
Bonnie D. Ford (2:21 PM)
Should I feel guilty?
Bonnie D. Ford (2:22 PM)
Long rally finished off by punishing forehand fown the line from DP. 15-all
Bonnie D. Ford (2:25 PM)
Sorry for the lapse -- wireless went out momentarily
Bonnie D. Ford (2:26 PM)
OK. It's 5-3 Fed in the fifth, DP serving, up 40-0
Mitch (Shreveport, LA)
Does this match make DP a star win or lose?
Bonnie D. Ford (2:26 PM)
Certainly will increase respect for those who didn't know his game well. He has been overshadowed by the Big Three/Four.
Bonnie D. Ford (2:27 PM)
40-30
Bonnie D. Ford (2:27 PM)
Fed showing that telltale leaving-his-feet, great-follow-through energy on his backhand
Bonnie D. Ford (2:28 PM)
Great return by Fed handcuffs DP
Bonnie D. Ford (2:28 PM)
MATCH PT
Bonnie D. Ford (2:28 PM)
Bonnie D. Ford (2:28 PM)
Fed's backhand sails wide.
Bonnie D. Ford (2:28 PM)
Deuce.
Bonnie D. Ford (2:29 PM)
Deep serve by DP, Fed returns short. AD DP
Bonnie D. Ford (2:29 PM)
Fed BH just long. 5-4, and he's got the match on his racquet.
Bonnie D. Ford (2:31 PM)
Swiss fan contingent making themselves heard...
Bonnie D. Ford (2:31 PM)
Great first serve by RF, DP nets it, 15-0
Bonnie D. Ford (2:31 PM)
Instant replay. 30-0
Bonnie D. Ford (2:32 PM)
Fine forehand winner from DP. 30-15
Bonnie D. Ford (2:32 PM)
Fed FH winner down line
Bonnie D. Ford (2:32 PM)
MATCH PT #2
Bonnie D. Ford (2:33 PM)
Fed FH winner -- HE'S THRU
Bonnie D. Ford (2:33 PM)
The guys are embracing, smiling
Bonnie D. Ford (2:33 PM)
Fed turned to his box and ROARED
Bonnie D. Ford (2:33 PM)
now tossing stuff into the crowd
Bonnie D. Ford (2:34 PM)
crowd is standing... DP looks emotional
Bonnie D. Ford (2:34 PM)
RF giving a thumbs-up salute to the crowd...now being interviewd on court
Bonnie D. Ford (2:36 PM)
In French: "I have one more step to take... I'm so happy I was able to come back again. Juan Martin really played well. He's young, he's sad, it's hard. (On Soderling:) Even though I have a great record against him, he's impressive. He deserves to be there, he beat Rafa."
Bonnie D. Ford (2:37 PM)
Thanks YOU guys -- I couldn't have abandoned you! Please follow our on-line coverage over the weekend. This is our last live chat. Greg and I are so appreciative of all your support. Over and out...
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