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Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray all advanced with wins last evening and yesterday, moving them into the round of 16 at the Australian Open. Federer had little trouble with Russian opponent, Gabashvili, winning 6-1, 6-2, 6-3. Roger has looked really comfortable with his new larger racquet and appears to be in great shape. The road becomes much tougher now, as he will next face J. Tsonga who advanced over fellow Frenchman G. Simon. The Tsonga – Federer fourth round match should be a great test for Roger. The road to a title in Melbourne is a daunting one for Fed. He would likely need to beat Tsonga, Murray, Nadal and then Djokovic. A tall order for anyone! Non the less, it would be great to see him make it to the semifinal and or final and I believe as the spring rolls around and we head toward Wimbledon, some more Federer magic is in store for us! Needs to move up a few notches in the rankings (currently at #6) to make the path to victory a little less arduous. Also, must improve on his break point conversions, a weakness he has had for the past two/three years. Rafa had little trouble with G. Monfils, winning 6-1, 6-2, 6-3. This was a bit of a disappointment, as many had this match circled as “one to watch”. Monfils is always entertaining and certainly capable of greatness and everyone hoped this match would be closer. Andy Murray looked a bit rusty, grabbed at his recently repaired back a few times early in his match against Feliciano Lopez, but went on to a solid performance and win, 7-6, 6-4, 6-2. Really hate to see Lopez buzzed his gorgeous locks! I think Andy’s mom is a bit upset as well, she is famously known for her “crush” on the handsome Spaniard.
On the women’s side, Sharapova advanced as did Azarenka (and she will next face Sloane Stephens from the USA) while Caroline Wozniacki was ousted in three sets. Well, she is still sporting that huge diamond ring from Rory Mcilroy. Also, back to the men’s side, the last American man Donald Young was taken out by K. Nishikori, 7-5, 6-1, 6-0. A great match took place between two young guns, Raonic and Demitrov. Demitrov (also known as Sharapova’s plus one) advanced in five grueling sets, winning the fifth set in an exciting tie break. Great interview with Roger Federer on You Tube where he talks about watching that match in the lockerroom after his match was completed.
Moving to the NBA…R. Rondo returned to action last night in Boston for the first time since January 2013 (torn ACL) and it was spoiled by the Lakers, who won 107 – 104. The Celtics, now coached by Brad Stevens (formerly of Butler) are of course not the Celtics of old, literally, as Paul Pierce and KG are now in Brooklyn and Ray Allen is in Miami for his second year. So, this is now Rondo’s team. Also, long time coach Doc Rivers has left for sunny LA, coaching the Clippers. Kobe was in attendance on the bench but still not back in action. Pau Gasol led the Lakers with 24 points and 13 rebounds. Kendall Marshall hit the game winning three point shot for LA and Rondo’s attempted three point shot for the tie at the buzzer did not go in. So, Lakers actually got a win!
Later…
