Up Top Down Under

In most of the Northern Hemisphere it is cold and wet and it feels like the world is asleep.  Thank heavens tennis is back like a heat wave bringing energy to our lives through the gift of television. 

I printed out the men's single draw to get a glimpse of the weeks to come.  I was happy to see the number 1 next to Rafael Nadal's name and it reminded me that 2008 however great it was is past and 2009 is here with all its ups and downs not unlike a great roller coaster ride. 

Listening to everyone fuss over Andy Murray makes me grin.  He has been playing great tennis as of late and he seems to be finding his feet with each passing slam.  The big questions is can Andy handle the pressure of the crowds, the press and the weight of his country's hope?  I think that the odds makers are wrong on this call, sorry Andy.

Federer is graciously giving interviews to remind everyone that he is there to play and to win regardless of the odds makers view of the open.  Can he equal the great Sampras? He sure is going to try, though there is that pesky problem of the others who have recently been able to unlock the key to "how to beat Roger".

The returning champ, Djokovic, is busy playing a warm up and so the media hasn't been buzzing as much about him yet.  I'm certain though that his talent and ego will soon be felt in OZ as days pass and challengers fall by the way side.

The other strong contenders are chomping at the bit for a little press time to regail their stories of triumph they are sure will thrill us over the next fort night.  Tsonga, Simon and Gasquet  have played some great tennis against each other and so who knows what surprises they may have in store for us. 

He is back, Lleyton Hewitt is back.  I'm calling him the "bionic bunny" this year.  I don't think he will go deep this year due to the talent of Gonzalez. It will be a great match to watch partly because of the home crowd who always deliver great energy and also because these two have never played one another! I believe that Hewitt will have a better year in 09 and that he is far from hanging up his racket!

Now for the US players, all of them.  Roddick will see action but I don't believe he will be able to go past the quarterfinals. Blake will be fabulous as always, and I wish him the best of luck in his draw.  Sam Querry will surprise us with some amazing shots.

I see Nadal/Federer in the final with Nadal in four sets. Who ever told Rafa that he needed to mature his image at 22 was wrong! We miss the sleeveless shirts and long pants, Bring Them Back! Nadal on top down under!