May 29, 2007

French Open Thoughts

I'm watching Federer in the 3rd set against Michael Russell, and I gotta tell ya I'm not really convinced that Roger is playing the game that will win him the French Open. Yes, the wide array of strokes that only Federer can bring was on display. Yes, the elegant speed that had John McEnroe comparing him to Mikhail Baryshnikov, the famed, quintessential Russian Dancer, was there. Without doubt you could feel an intensity about Roger that you don't generally feel in an early round match. But one thing I feel is essential for Roger to display if he is to win the French Open is patience.

Federer continued to go for winners on the inside-out forehand and continued to make unforced errors on that shot. Of course he was playing Russell, someone who was no real threat to beat Federer unless Roger had a really bad day, and maybe things will be different when he plays someone who has the tools to beat him. Yet, I keep thinking that when you encounter someone whom you can beat with ease, it is the ideal time to work on some elements of your game that you may want to use deeper in the tournament.

Then again, what do I know? Roger Federer is the no.1 player in the world, and has been for some time. He is arguably the best tennis player we have ever seen. I, on the other hand, am a "never-was" much less a "has-been." I can't help but think that Using these early round matches to prepare for some of the best clay courters in the world would enhance Roger's chances of winning his first French Open.