Thursday 3 April 2008

Roddick brings out the best in Federer

I'm really looking forward to Roddick v Federer tonight. Federer has a 15 - 1 advantage over Roddick but their matches have produced some world class tennis over the years. My favourites include the masterclass Federer served up in the semi of the 2007 Australian Open; and the 2004 Wimbledon Final.

Roddick is often (unfairly?) portrayed as a one dimensional, one slam wonder. But say what you like the guy has got game - if it wasn't for Federer he'd probably won another 3 slams by now - and heart, he keeps coming back for more. And keeps believing he is going to win.

Unfortunately his best efforts - and Roddick always gives it his all - come up short. But fortunately, for the rest of us, Roddick invariably brings out the best in Federer.

There's no better example of this than the video below of a rally I think is from Basel in 2001 or 2002. Roddick is all over Federer at the net, and goes to put away a smash. No other man alive could get the ball pack in play let alone hit a winner.

Hat tip to Gammler26 for the video.



1 comment:

Tennis Talk, Anyone? said...

Hey Steve. I definitely agree with you about how their matches have gone. The way Roddick plays when he's gone up against Federer would definitely be enough to overwhelm pretty much any other player. Federer always steps it up in the crucial moments, though. So I take it you're going with Federer in this match? Me, too; and pretty much for the reason you mention.

And that video is insane! I saw it a while ago and I think it was one of the most amazing things I've ever seen Federer do! --Van