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Happy Labor Day! That being said, I am not happy…Roger Federer shockingly lost to Tommy Robredo today in three straight sets, 6 – 7, 3 – 6, 4 – 6 on Armstrong Stadium (first time Roger has played a US Open match on Armstrong Stadium since 2006). Also, first time Roger has lost in the fourth round at the US Open since 2002. Roger never seemed to be on his game and Robredo was superb. Roger had never lost to Robredo (10- 0 prior to today) and this is just hugely disappointing to myself and all Federer fans. I so badly wanted to see him play Nadal at the US Open (has never happened) and one has to wonder if it will ever happen? Strong words coming from me as I always believe in Federer. He seemed unsettled from the start, likely not happy to be moved to Armstrong as the four hour rain delay today caused all kinds of scheduling problems. The Azarenka – Ivanovic match which was supposed to be played prior to Federer and Robredo on Ashe Stadium was cancelled and moved to tomorrow morning. The achilles heel for Federer remains failure to convert on break point opportunities, 2/16 in this match, 0/6 in the second set. He had his chances, but failed to convert. Really a shame. Wednesday could have been magical. Alas, it will not happen. So, meanwhile, Kolschreiber and Nadal are in action, Ferrer is in a battle with Tipsarevic and Raonic is one set up on Gasquet (7 – 6). For me, Federer is out and it is hard to take in.
Meanwhile, the Deutsche Bank golf tournament finally was completed after it’s own set of weather issues. Henrik Stenson won at -22 as the day’s leader Sergio Garcia faded. Steve Stricker finished in second at -20 and Graham Delaet was third at -18. Matt Kuchar, Jordan Spieth (20 years old) and Kevin Stadler all finished at -17. Phil Mickelson came in at -8, Rory Mcilroy at -7 and not a good tournament for Tiger Woods, -4. Cute shot of Tiger walking off the course with daughter Sam.
Anyhow, for me, Federer lost and it is not a good day. Still Happy Labor Day to one and all. FSU and Pittsburgh are currently airing on ESPN. I need time to digest this disappointment.
Until I do…over and out!
Post note after post-match Federer interview: He made no excuses. He simply did not play well, had chances and did not make it happen. In his own words..he self destructed. He will go back to work and try to improve. His shots clearly lacked zip on them and he just did not look like well…Roger Federer. Such a shame…first time he has not made the final of a Grand Slam since 2002. Hope he can do well enough during the indoor hard court circuit to make the year end final in London!
