Everyone knows that Rafael Nadal likes to play long points and plays slowly between points. My theory has always been that Rafa has the best powers of concentration on tour so playing slowly gives Nadal a comparative advantage. A long match means that his opponent’s mind may wonder. Throw in Nadal’s exuberance and physique and…
Month: September 2011
Previewing the US Open Sunday September 4, 2011
Men’s Matches Rafael Nadal’s Quarter The Nadal-Nalbandian match is intriguing. If Nalbandian can hold up physically, I think he has a chance at the upset. Rafa has not looked sharp since Wimbledon, and David Nalbandian is exceptionally good at changing pace and direction during a rally. This skill somewhat blunts Rafa’s ability to grind and…
Michael Russell
This is more of a musing than a full length post, but anyone who has tried to play tennis has to appreciate Michael Russell. His game is not overwhelming, but he has obviously pushed himself to maximize his abilities. As a tennis player and fan, I have to give him great credit. In his…
Tennis Abides: Dan Martin on Tennis and Life 