The Billie Jean King Cup Shows Why Tennis Is Great In New York
March 6, 2010 by Joe McDonald · Leave a Comment
NEW YORK – There’s always one problem with the US Open every single year.
After it’s over, you have to wait 50 more weeks to see some live tennis in New York City.
Of course, a true fan of the sport can travel across the country – or even the world – to see [...]
The Tour Is Better With Henin
January 31, 2010 by Joe McDonald · Leave a Comment
For a while there, it looked like Justine Henin’s comeback would mirror fellow countrywoman Kim Clijsters by winning her first major on her first try.
Alas though, this time Serena Williams did not melt down and the former No. 1 had to settle for runner up in the Oz Open, after she lost the final. 4-6 [...]
Oz Just The Beginning For Roger
January 31, 2010 by Joe McDonald · Leave a Comment
Last year, some wondered what happened to Roger Federer, especially after he dropped the Australian Open to Rafael Nadal.
This year, though, there’s no doubt the master is on track.
“It’s not something I’ve ever put in my mind that this is something I want to achieve,” Federer said after defeating Andy Murray in straight sets, 6-3 [...]
Oudin May Need Some Time Off
January 21, 2010 by Joe McDonald · Leave a Comment
Remember Melanie Oudin? America’s sweetheart, who charmed Flushing Meadows with her Russian killer attitude?
Well since Flushing, it’s been a struggle and she hasn’t won only one match since New York’s tiffany event.
Too many TV appearances, exhibitions and now a Met-like collapse in the first round of the Australian Open, where she dropped four match points [...]
Sharapova’s Loss May Be More Than A Bad Day
January 18, 2010 by Joe McDonald · Leave a Comment
Don’t weep for Maria Sharapova.
Don’t shed a tear for her, the same way you didn’t cry for Serena Williams, Tiger Woods, or even Conan O’Brien. These are rich celebrities, who make more money than any of us commoners would dream about.
And in Maria’s case, she just signed an extension of her Nike deal that will [...]
The Soft Spoken Giant Comes Through
September 14, 2009 by Joe McDonald · 1 Comment
FLUSHING MEADOWS, NY – His size would make you think he’s older than his just 20 years on this Earth. And even at 6′6”, this giant is as gentle as it comes. So much so that Juan Martin Del Potro was almost in tears as he gave his post-championship press conference.
“Well, when I lay down [...]
Serena Apologized, Now Let’s Move On
September 14, 2009 by Joe McDonald · Leave a Comment
FLUSHING MEADOWS, NY – Over the weekend I wrote that Serena Williams has a chance today to do the right thing and apologize about her actions on Saturday night.
And today she did just that.
“I wanted to apologize first to the lineswoman, to the USTA, and my fans most of all, and to Kim Clijsters who [...]
It’s A Family Win For Clijsters
September 14, 2009 by Joe McDonald · Leave a Comment
FLUSHING MEADOWS, NY – It’s tough to say what made Kim Clijsters happier tonight. Was it just winning the US Open or being able to celebrate it with her 18 month-old daughter Jada?
Maybe it was a little bit of both.
“Just the way [Jada] was looking at herself up on the screen,” Clijsters said after she [...]
Serena Needs To Cut The Diva Act
September 13, 2009 by Joe McDonald · 1 Comment
FLUSHING MEADOWS, NY – A few years ago, it seemed like Serena Williams was more concerned about her social life, fashion, and her brand name, rather than her play on the court. And it got so bad in 2006, she was unseeded in the US Open, because her ranking was so low.
Yet, Serena learned something [...]
This Talk of a Roof is Just Lip Service
September 12, 2009 by Joe McDonald · 2 Comments
FLUSHING MEADOWS, NY – So here we are another day looking to be a washout. Already the doubles matches have been canceled and the women may be coming soon.
Yet, today the USTA addressed the situation and, of course, some reporters asked about a roof.
“Well, look, would I love to have a roof? Absolutely,” said tournament [...]
