Here are a couple of good articles regarding the match for all interested:
http://sports.yahoo.com/ten/news;_ylt=A9G_e9PjleJE7QgAVAc4v7YF?slug=canadatennis&prov=st&type=lgns
http://today.reuters.co.uk/news/articlenews.aspx?type=tennisNews&storyID=2006-08-16T024834Z_01_B523680_RTRIDST_0_SPORT-TENNIS-ROGERS-CUP.XML
Pictures from the match still to come later in the day Blogger is having some issues and won't let me upload them.
pop culture, tennis, celebrities, music, news, geek related stuff and anything else I fancy
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Hingis moves to 3rd round at Rogers Cup:)
Well I was finally able to watch a Martina Hingis match in its entirety, one of the advantages of having your favourite player play in your home country:D. I didn't know this but apparently Hingis received a first round bye so this was her 2nd round match. And what a match this one turned out to be! I think everyone expected Hingis to get through it easily but her opponent proved to be more of a challenge then anyone or even Hingis herself thought.
That could have been due to Hingis's poor game play at times. Things weren't working for her today, her serve wasn't there she was only serving at about 50% and she made an unusually high amount of unforced errors. I think about 25 in total. As well as 5 double faults. Or it could have been that her opponent Italian Mara Santangelo hit a lot of very deep shots and it took Hingis a while to get used to it.
The first set went along with neither player breaking the other until the 5th game of the match where Martina broke and won it 7/5. What I was really surprised at was how little of her variety Martina used through out the match. Not very many drop shots or volleys, she really didn't mix things up the way she usually does.
In the second set Martina was really rushing and ended up being broken. Her opponent was leading 4/1 in the second, but Martina came back after talking to her mom and coach Melanie Molitor for the second time when the other player had an injury time out. She also talked to her in the first set, where she seemed very agitated and unhappy.
She calmed down after their second talk and looked a lot more relaxed. The second set ended up going into a tie break which Martina won with a lot of effort. So I really gotta give her lots of credit for coming back from 4/1 down and winning the match 7/6.
For those who don't know one of the new rules in Tennis that is being introduced for the first time at Rogers Cup is on-court couching. Players are allowed to request their coach to come on court once per set as well as during set breaks. If a player takes a medical time out or bathroom break, the opposing player only may request her coach without losing one of her rights to do so. Coaching timeouts are conducted during changeovers and at mid-set intervals.
Both players used this new privilege in the match and as I've mentioned in Martina's case it seemed to help. It calmed and refocused her allowing her to get back into the match. The on-court coaching sessions are shown on a tape delay basis. What I loved about Martina's session is that she chose to speak to her mom in her first language, Czech.
Which is very smart since like the commentators said not a lot of people speak it, so there's no danger of anyone particularly your opponent knowing exactly what your coach is telling you. They did bring in a translator who talked to Martina's mom in German and she also said that she suggested Martina mix things up. Which she seemed to do a little more towards the end of the match.
Both players also used their challenges, which is basically where you challenge the call of the lines person and if you're right you win another one. A player can challenge once in a set. unless like I said they're right and earn more. All of this is available thanks to hawk eye technology. Which are special camera's that allow the players and the audience to see if a ball is in or out. That's also something that has only been introduced this year.
All in all it was a really entertaining match, and I think the fact that Hingis won such a difficult match in two sets is a good sign. She'll certainly be more prepared for all the other matches to come. Maybe this will give her enough confidence and we can see another clash with her and Kim. Where hopefully this time she'll be able to get her revenge. And sorry if I seem a bit critical of Hingis's game in this post, she really didn't play too badly but there was a lot of room for improvement.
Also forgot to mention I loved that in her post-match interview Matina asked the interviewer what exactly he asked her mom lol. She turned it around on him just as he was about to walk away. That's Martina for you never afraid to speak up or satisfy her curiosity:D.
Next Martina will most likely play Daniella Hantuchova, which will be another tough one. But if she can get through she has a real chance at winning this title. Due to many seeded players pulling out of the tourney at the last minute. People like Sharapova, Henin, Venus, Pierce and Mauresmo. So I think this title is open to anyone. We shell wait and see. Crossing my fingers and lots of luck to Martina in her next match.
That could have been due to Hingis's poor game play at times. Things weren't working for her today, her serve wasn't there she was only serving at about 50% and she made an unusually high amount of unforced errors. I think about 25 in total. As well as 5 double faults. Or it could have been that her opponent Italian Mara Santangelo hit a lot of very deep shots and it took Hingis a while to get used to it.
The first set went along with neither player breaking the other until the 5th game of the match where Martina broke and won it 7/5. What I was really surprised at was how little of her variety Martina used through out the match. Not very many drop shots or volleys, she really didn't mix things up the way she usually does.
In the second set Martina was really rushing and ended up being broken. Her opponent was leading 4/1 in the second, but Martina came back after talking to her mom and coach Melanie Molitor for the second time when the other player had an injury time out. She also talked to her in the first set, where she seemed very agitated and unhappy.
She calmed down after their second talk and looked a lot more relaxed. The second set ended up going into a tie break which Martina won with a lot of effort. So I really gotta give her lots of credit for coming back from 4/1 down and winning the match 7/6.
For those who don't know one of the new rules in Tennis that is being introduced for the first time at Rogers Cup is on-court couching. Players are allowed to request their coach to come on court once per set as well as during set breaks. If a player takes a medical time out or bathroom break, the opposing player only may request her coach without losing one of her rights to do so. Coaching timeouts are conducted during changeovers and at mid-set intervals.
Both players used this new privilege in the match and as I've mentioned in Martina's case it seemed to help. It calmed and refocused her allowing her to get back into the match. The on-court coaching sessions are shown on a tape delay basis. What I loved about Martina's session is that she chose to speak to her mom in her first language, Czech.
Which is very smart since like the commentators said not a lot of people speak it, so there's no danger of anyone particularly your opponent knowing exactly what your coach is telling you. They did bring in a translator who talked to Martina's mom in German and she also said that she suggested Martina mix things up. Which she seemed to do a little more towards the end of the match.
Both players also used their challenges, which is basically where you challenge the call of the lines person and if you're right you win another one. A player can challenge once in a set. unless like I said they're right and earn more. All of this is available thanks to hawk eye technology. Which are special camera's that allow the players and the audience to see if a ball is in or out. That's also something that has only been introduced this year.
All in all it was a really entertaining match, and I think the fact that Hingis won such a difficult match in two sets is a good sign. She'll certainly be more prepared for all the other matches to come. Maybe this will give her enough confidence and we can see another clash with her and Kim. Where hopefully this time she'll be able to get her revenge. And sorry if I seem a bit critical of Hingis's game in this post, she really didn't play too badly but there was a lot of room for improvement.
Also forgot to mention I loved that in her post-match interview Matina asked the interviewer what exactly he asked her mom lol. She turned it around on him just as he was about to walk away. That's Martina for you never afraid to speak up or satisfy her curiosity:D.
Next Martina will most likely play Daniella Hantuchova, which will be another tough one. But if she can get through she has a real chance at winning this title. Due to many seeded players pulling out of the tourney at the last minute. People like Sharapova, Henin, Venus, Pierce and Mauresmo. So I think this title is open to anyone. We shell wait and see. Crossing my fingers and lots of luck to Martina in her next match.
Monday, August 14, 2006
There's no place like home:)
Well I'm back safe and sound, I have to say that 3 days really stretches when you don't have other things to occupy you. By the second day I really started wishing I had brought a book.
I was going to update the blog last night but we returned late in the evening and I was exhausted. The camping itself turned out alright, there were a few things that we had to deal with which turned it into a bit of an adventure.
Sleeping was one of those things, the nights were really really cold and for some reason we didn't bring enough blankets to keep us warm. With no sleeping bags it got really unpleasant, to the point where I actually slept in the car the last 2 nights. Not that it helped the car was just as cold. The other thing was one of our air mattress had a hole in it so it kept loosing air and my poor parents were literally sleeping on the ground.
The parental units and myself did bicker a little on the first day but it got gradually less after that. I also came back sporting a really bad sun burn, yeah I know what you're all thinking why didn't I bring some sun block?. Well it seems that we always forget such things when we go on long trips like this. We forgot a lot of other stuff too, like warmer clothes lol.
Now to the good things, we actually had extremely good weather during the day with plenty of sun and no rain. So I was quite happy about that. The place we were at was only about an hour away so I didn't have to spend endless hours in the car, another good thing. We also had water and electricity. For which I have to say thank god! it allowed me to listen to my cd player and kept me from going insane lol. We also had a public bathroom close by, a surprisingly clean one at that so that was a relief.
Got to talk to some nice people camping close by, one was really generous and helped set up our mosquito tent. He even give us extra firewood. One guy camping across from us even got to drink some tequila with us while we were celebrating my dad's birthday on the 10th. He was from Hamilton and really polite and seemed to take a shining to my parents. Not sure why lol.
On the last day I got a little break from my folks, some friends of theirs arrived and kept us all entertained. I actually had more fun on the last day, even stayed up longer sitting and chatting by the fire.
One activity that was really popular at this camping area was tubing, there were people always walking around with big inflated tires lol. There was a little area in the park where you could go tubing on the river, you had to rent a life jacket and helmet of course. Pretty steep price though, the equipment itself was only 18 bucks but there was a deposit of 75. I would have been too chicken to try this anyway even if it was cheaper. I'm not really an adventurous type and going down the river on a tire, not my cup of tea.
All in all I guess it turned out a little better then I expected. One thing is for sure though after 3 days of roughing it in a tent or car in my case, you really appreciate your bed. Especially since right now I'm aching in places I didn't even know could lol.
I was going to update the blog last night but we returned late in the evening and I was exhausted. The camping itself turned out alright, there were a few things that we had to deal with which turned it into a bit of an adventure.
Sleeping was one of those things, the nights were really really cold and for some reason we didn't bring enough blankets to keep us warm. With no sleeping bags it got really unpleasant, to the point where I actually slept in the car the last 2 nights. Not that it helped the car was just as cold. The other thing was one of our air mattress had a hole in it so it kept loosing air and my poor parents were literally sleeping on the ground.
The parental units and myself did bicker a little on the first day but it got gradually less after that. I also came back sporting a really bad sun burn, yeah I know what you're all thinking why didn't I bring some sun block?. Well it seems that we always forget such things when we go on long trips like this. We forgot a lot of other stuff too, like warmer clothes lol.
Now to the good things, we actually had extremely good weather during the day with plenty of sun and no rain. So I was quite happy about that. The place we were at was only about an hour away so I didn't have to spend endless hours in the car, another good thing. We also had water and electricity. For which I have to say thank god! it allowed me to listen to my cd player and kept me from going insane lol. We also had a public bathroom close by, a surprisingly clean one at that so that was a relief.
Got to talk to some nice people camping close by, one was really generous and helped set up our mosquito tent. He even give us extra firewood. One guy camping across from us even got to drink some tequila with us while we were celebrating my dad's birthday on the 10th. He was from Hamilton and really polite and seemed to take a shining to my parents. Not sure why lol.
On the last day I got a little break from my folks, some friends of theirs arrived and kept us all entertained. I actually had more fun on the last day, even stayed up longer sitting and chatting by the fire.
One activity that was really popular at this camping area was tubing, there were people always walking around with big inflated tires lol. There was a little area in the park where you could go tubing on the river, you had to rent a life jacket and helmet of course. Pretty steep price though, the equipment itself was only 18 bucks but there was a deposit of 75. I would have been too chicken to try this anyway even if it was cheaper. I'm not really an adventurous type and going down the river on a tire, not my cup of tea.
All in all I guess it turned out a little better then I expected. One thing is for sure though after 3 days of roughing it in a tent or car in my case, you really appreciate your bed. Especially since right now I'm aching in places I didn't even know could lol.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Hi-ho, hi-ho, a camping we will go
Yep, I'm off on a 3 to 4 day camping trip starting tomorrow, or later today lol. Much to my own displeasure, since I really hate it but I'm being dragged along. With my sometimes wonderful sometimes unbearable parents. I'm leaving tomorrow morning and coming back on Saturday or Sunday, so there will be no more blog updates till then. Since I won't have access to the net obviously.
The reason I hate camping the most is probably 'cause we have the worst luck when it comes to weather, last time I went camping it was raining like cats and dogs for 2 days. I'm hoping for more luck this time, but at the same time not holding my breath. Plus spending 3 days with my parents is just not my idea of fun.
I really don't think I'm cut out for camping anymore, it was fine when I was a teenager but since then I've never really enjoyed it. But again since I have no choice I'll have to make the best of it I guess. Now if I can just get through the 3 hour car ride with my parents...
Anyway, there should be plenty of updates next week since it'll be the women's turn at the Rogers Cup. I'll be sure to keep you all up to date on Martina's progress as well as some of the other players.
Anyway to all my blog visitors, take care and bye for now.
The reason I hate camping the most is probably 'cause we have the worst luck when it comes to weather, last time I went camping it was raining like cats and dogs for 2 days. I'm hoping for more luck this time, but at the same time not holding my breath. Plus spending 3 days with my parents is just not my idea of fun.
I really don't think I'm cut out for camping anymore, it was fine when I was a teenager but since then I've never really enjoyed it. But again since I have no choice I'll have to make the best of it I guess. Now if I can just get through the 3 hour car ride with my parents...
Anyway, there should be plenty of updates next week since it'll be the women's turn at the Rogers Cup. I'll be sure to keep you all up to date on Martina's progress as well as some of the other players.
Anyway to all my blog visitors, take care and bye for now.
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Federer, Nadal, Blake match summeries
Generally I'm more of a women's tennis fan but I have been watching some of the men's Rogers Cup action this week and I have to say it's been pretty good.
At the moment I'm watching James Blake and Richard Gasquet, very entertaining match I'm a little disappointed in Blake I'm a big fan of his. But gotta hand it to Gasquet, he's playing really well I didn't know that he's such an all court player very few men players are.
And looking at the score right now Gasquet has just won 6-4, 6-3 so Blake is out too bad.
And of course last night I also watched Mr. Roger Federer, so great to watch him play. Always so calm cool and collected, hardly breaks a sweat he had no trouble getting past Paul-Henri Mathieu 6-3, 6-4 in his first round. Federar and Nadal are playing their second round matches later today so I'll be sure to watch that.
I'm also getting really excited about next week can't wait to see all the women come out on court the best of the best oh, what a week it'll be.
Looks like Federers next match is about to start so I'm off to watch:D.
Here is an article with details on Federers and Nadals matches as well as other match summaries for anyone interested.
http://ca.news.yahoo.com/s/08082006/3/sports-nadal-federer-win-rogers.html
At the moment I'm watching James Blake and Richard Gasquet, very entertaining match I'm a little disappointed in Blake I'm a big fan of his. But gotta hand it to Gasquet, he's playing really well I didn't know that he's such an all court player very few men players are.
And looking at the score right now Gasquet has just won 6-4, 6-3 so Blake is out too bad.
And of course last night I also watched Mr. Roger Federer, so great to watch him play. Always so calm cool and collected, hardly breaks a sweat he had no trouble getting past Paul-Henri Mathieu 6-3, 6-4 in his first round. Federar and Nadal are playing their second round matches later today so I'll be sure to watch that.
I'm also getting really excited about next week can't wait to see all the women come out on court the best of the best oh, what a week it'll be.
Looks like Federers next match is about to start so I'm off to watch:D.
Here is an article with details on Federers and Nadals matches as well as other match summaries for anyone interested.
http://ca.news.yahoo.com/s/08082006/3/sports-nadal-federer-win-rogers.html
Just reached 1000 views!!
Wow I noticed that my counter at the bottom of this page has reached 1000 views/visits so thanks to all of those who come and check out my blog. That's pretty cool! and not bad for 6 months:D. I'm glad to know that people are interested in my views and what I have to say. So thanks again and keep those visits coming! ;).
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Refael Nadal off to a good start a Rogers Cup
Well looks like Refeal Nadal is back in tip top shape his opponent Chilean Nicolas Massu did give him a bit of a challenge but Nadal hang in there and eventually won in 2 sets 6/3 6/2. Nadal is last year's defending champion of Rogers Cup it'll be interesting to see if he can do it again or if Roger Federer will be able to stop him.
I think a clash with these two will be inevitable. Being more of a Roger fan myself I'm actually very interested to see if he can beat Nadal like he did at Wimbledon. Of course this time will be a little more difficult since they are not playing on grass. But hey I have faith in Roger. I'm predicting another Roger/Refeal clash in the final. But upsets have happened so we shall see.
Here is an article related to the Nadal/Massu match with results from other matches played today.
http://ca.news.yahoo.com/s/08082006/3/sports-nadal-wins-rogers-cup-opener.html
I think a clash with these two will be inevitable. Being more of a Roger fan myself I'm actually very interested to see if he can beat Nadal like he did at Wimbledon. Of course this time will be a little more difficult since they are not playing on grass. But hey I have faith in Roger. I'm predicting another Roger/Refeal clash in the final. But upsets have happened so we shall see.
Here is an article related to the Nadal/Massu match with results from other matches played today.
http://ca.news.yahoo.com/s/08082006/3/sports-nadal-wins-rogers-cup-opener.html
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