The Gays and Tennis Part 107: second week of the Australian Open!

Rafa's ass is delish!

Team Ginger Robot | FAA

Although - I do like Med and he’ll probably win it.

I'm rooting for Rafa and the few strands of hair he's got left.

Collins off to a hot start 5-2

Cornet team

Indifferent between Swiaek and Kamepi

Sinner team

I would normally be on FAA team, but I want a new champ so that means beating Nadal. So I’m Medvedev team for this match.

Thanks for the new thread, OP.

Collins failed to serve out the first set

now 5-4

5-5

Collins seems to be in a hurry to make her shift at the truck-stop diner.

Collins is such a sourpuss. Its funny when she implodes.

If Collins wins this I'm definitely pulling for whoever wins between Swiatek and Kanepi to get to the final.

why colins couldnt beat swiatek or kanepi?

Cornet desperately trying to get coaching there, lmao.

R13 she could I just dont want her in the final. However her weak serve will get pummeled by most of the women left.

but swiatek second serve is weak so big hitters like collins prefers that

The best servers left are Keys and Barty. Kanepi has a good one too. Everyone else has a weak second serve.

With the way that Barty and Keys are playing, their semi is basically a final. Both *should* be able to handle whoever makes it out of the bottom half of the draw.

I'm hoping the last quarterfinal is more competitive. Aside from the 7-5 set in the current match, these matches have been so one sided.

Annnnnd Collins is in another AO semifinal.

Collins wasn't very vocal on this day. Only a few shrieking COME ONs

Thank god Cuntnet and her nose are gone!

One set from Kanepi vs Collins. Compelling. Then they(especially Kanepi) will go back to barely stringing wins together the rest of the year.

Kanepi has always been a very powerful hitter but she isn't a good mover. I have to say she is in the best shape I've seen her. Even compared to 10 years ago she looks fitter now in her mid 30s

I didn't know Swiatek was so fiery on court

Shi-vi-tek

wow epic match point from Swiatek. I knew she was a decent mover but that was impressive. I feel for Kanepi She came so close

Were any of you on Inga team?

What a loooong torturous match that was. Not very compelling tennis - both making so many errors.

I like Iga but I wanted Kaia to win today.

EEW Fowler is back! Will espn never get rid of him?

I have to admit, I think Jannick Sinner is kinda cute. In a sullen Howdy Doody kinda way.

Those pasty, white skinny legs need to get a move on.

He needs to take out the Greek. 😑😑

Team Sissypants.

He has the best ass in tennis. No one comes close.

Excuse me R34?

I was surprised when I initially found out Sinner was Italian awhile back based on his appearance. Then I learned he is from the northernmost section of Itsly where I read they speak German.

*Italy

Sinner is too spindly

I know it shouldnt be a surprise that Italy has pale gingers but most are tanned with darker features.

[quote] He has the best ass in tennis. No one comes close.

I agree with R35. The Domicakes are much better. Nadal's is much better though his face is not attractive. Tsitsy has a nice ass for someone his build, but it's not remarkable like those of Thiem and Nadal.

WTF? BEST CULO IN TENISTA?

Hoping Tsissipance gets his bottom spanked and sent home. But he just took the 1st set in like, 10 minutes.

The TsitsipASS is indeed lovely to behold but have to agree that our Domicakes and Rafa are in a league of their own.

I'm not as big a fan of Tsitsy as I used to be now that he has shown himself to be a self-involved ass, but I wouldn't mind him winning this over Rafa. As I said in this thread and the previous one, I want a new champion.

Tiafoe has the best ass

Sinner will be more of a threat once he hits puberty.

Trailer trash cunt Collins is one of the Maga loons, isn't she?

I haven't checked her social media lately but so far I've never seen or heard her talk politics

what does it mean in Aussie/New Zealand slang when you call someone a "knob"? Obviously an insult but what exactly is it?

The Kyrgios Aussie fans were being really rude to New Zealander Michael Venus during their QF doubles match and Kyrgios was eating it up which pissed Venus off

and they've flooded his Instagram too

R49 in that context “knob” = “dickhead”.

Generally “knob” = “bell end” = “cock”.

Do we even want shirtless A. Zverev aka Flopos?

Sinner needs a better serve to be competitive with the top guys

he should have been a tougher match for Tsitsipas than Fritz but Fritz has a good serve

As much as I dislike him, that was an ominously good performance by Stefanos. I was not expecting him to steamroller Il Gingio like that.

Me neither R54, it was shocking.

The commenters on the IG post at R50 are trash.

Why do people hate Tsitsipas now? What have I missed?

He's not an eye-gouging anti-vaxxer like Djokovic, so what's the problem exactly?

oh FFS, Felix throwing away a break of serve just like that.

FAA served at 6-5 but of course got broken back

R57 it's a couple of things: he's very prissy and 'up himself' in the mould of Federer; his outrageous toilet breaks at USO last year; anbd the blatant coaching he gets every match from Daddy Dearest. He was also posting anti-vax stuff last year and was clearly pissed at Djokovic for initially getting the exemption when he felt he'd been forced into it.

I'll admit he's nowhere near as unpleasant as Djokovic and Zverev, but he does give critics plenty of reasons to dislike him.

Some phenomenal rallies in this first tie-break.

don't forget also that when Tsitsipas is losing or deadlocked in a match, he'll sometimes take unprofessional personal swipes at his opponent

he might loudly yell "cmon" in his opponents' native language or he might even make an ethnically prejudiced comment

wow FAA first set 7-6(4)

Stellar first set from Felix despite that one-game hiccup. Phenomenal level overall from both players.

Can he keep this up? He does look like he wants this more than Medvedev. I didn't like the way his concentration went walkabouts when serving for the set though.

So much grunting going on, you'd think it was a WTA match.

[quote]So much grunting going on, you'd think it was a WTA match.

What grunting?

If this attempt to cheat story is true, it makes me laugh that the woman thought/wanted Medvedev to be Felix. Imagine the disappointment if she'd gone through with it and Medvedev turned up.

omg FAA up 2 sets

Is Medvedev injured? I just got up, and FAA is up two sets!

Nope, Felix is outplaying him.

FAA's level of play is stratospheric. He makes Mad Lad look like a journeyman. And I've had some snark in the past about how he used to capitulate in finals but I'm all for it and I hope he takes the title this year.

FAA getting a little tight now maybe?

Now rain halts the tie break. Felix has really been taking chances out there, I'm so impressed.

This rain delay and closed roof unfortunately is going to give Medvedev the match.

OMG Il Gingio folded like a tent. I'm surprised.

DL fave Danielle Collins steamrolled The Beak.

Is Med taking this to a 4th?

FAA needs to win the 4th. If this goes to 5, it's all Meds. He will have benefited from the closed roof and cooler temp

Fun fact: both players have French coaches. Gilles Cervera for Med and Frederic Fontang/Guillaume Marx for FAA (Rafael Nadal's uncle Toni has also been added to team FAA).

Aaand there it slips away.

OMG FAA / Med going 5

On to the 5th. Med is such a nerd.

That is a tactical MTO if I ever saw one.

FAA lost

Both Shapo and FAA 'coulda' won.

Gutted--Felix showed that he can play at a level that will put him at the top of the top, and he'll get there if he continues to improve at the rate he has over the last year. I knew he was probably a goner though when he faltered a couple of times in the third set and Deviil had that nasty glint back in his eye.

I really wanted FAA, but you have to give it to Med. He's damn good. Though did get super lucky about the rain/roof delay.

I really, really hope TsiTsi fly can take him out. My dear Rafa doesn't stand a chance against an in-form Med.

well that was quite a choke by FAA but not surprising

still he should overall be happy with his Australian form including at ATP Cup

now go play some fucking smaller events so you can win a damn title! By far the best player on tour without 1 so far

In DC last year sissylants kept blowing through his shoes and his daddy would lace them up…it was gamesmanship at its finest. They should have another pair of shoes at the ready

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Kyrgios is AWFUL. It really pisses me off that so many of the commentators are now gushing the "Oh, he's so entertaining!" BS. The antics and the disrespect he (they) are showing to opponents is particularly shitty. Disappointed in Kokkinakis for being his willing stooge. Thought he was better than that.

What I don't understand is why K & K didn't get defaulted for the ball that hit the kid. Kyrgios smashed the ball when it wasn't in play and as a result, it injured the kid. How is that not a default?

I was really surprised the way Tsitsipas ripped through Sinner. I thought that would be closer. Felix really did play Slam winning tennis for close to three sets. Medvedev is like Nadal, though, and just won't give up. Felix blinked. When it went to a 5th set, I knew it was over.

I'm really hoping Berretini takes out Nadal. I'd love to see a final with two younger players. I like the way Tsitsipas plays and his style of game when it's on. Not a fan of his antics, though, but his tennis appeals to me and makes it watchable. The women's matches have become almost unwatchable for me, although Keys-Barty ought to be good if they're both playing well. Anyway, I like the way Tsitsy plays, but I think only Medvedev may be able to take out Nadal and I don't want to see another Nadal Slam win. I respect him but can't stand him as a player.

Ash Team or Tippy Team? (I'm kinda torn...)

Danimal Team or Iga Team?

I'm OK with anyone winning except Greek asshole.

What word starts with K that they had to bleep out of the article in R89? Do they spell cock with a K elsewhere?

I wondered the same thing, R95.

“Knob”, R95. It’s an insult. Same as “cock”.

Not sure why it was censored in the linked article - the Sydney Morning Herald (paper of record in my city) didn’t.

I feel like that shouldn't be an insult.

R89 Is this poor guy’s name really Tim PUTZ??

R99 He’s German (or what you would call a “foreigner”).

Here’s a tip - sometimes some peoples’ names will sound odd in another language, maybe even yours - Dickhead.

R100 “Putz” is Yiddish slang for “a stupid or worthless person.”

Now schlep on outta here and quit kvetching, ya schmuck.

What isn't there tennis on ESPN today?

No men’s matches today so no day session to cover. Just the two women’s semis in the night session.

The Kyrgios-Kokkinakis doubles semi-finals is on in 4 hours time. I might give that a watch just to tune into the latest Kyrgios drama.

Yes I know that, R101 - I was making commentary on American parochialism, which you encapsulated perfectly in your subsequent post.

R102 ESPN is showing all the semis and final matches from here on out on tv but they're all night matches Oz time. The women's matches today don't start until 3:30 EST

tomorrow the men's matches don't start until 10:30 EST

for those confused about "knob" it was discussed in posts R49 R50 and R51

queens can't be expected to keep up all the time

Just leaving this here....

[quote] Ash Team or Tippy Team? (I'm kinda torn...) [quote] Danimal Team or Iga Team?

Barty team.

Iga team.

[quote] Ash Team or Tippy Team? (I'm kinda torn...) Danimal Team or Iga Team?

It's only a matter of time before trans "women" invade the sport, so any of these XX real ones get my support.

While they closed the roof in Tsitsipas/Sinner, they cut to showing Kokkinakis shirtless in the player's gym for a couple of minutes. He looked sublime.

Kokkinakis-Kyrgios just blowing past all the top men's doubles seeds. They've beaten the No. 1, 3, 6 and 15 seeds. They would have met the No. 2 seeds in the final except for that they got beaten by Ebden and Purcell. It'll be an all-Aussie final.

R113 How 'convenient'. I guess Tiley's got to cling on to his job somehow...

Keys is starting out quite flat. Several unforced errors

Barty solid so far

Keys in the first set looks quite nervous. Very poor footwork. Missing a lot of returns even on Barty's second serves, overhitting groundstrokes out, hitting other shots into the net. Barty is just letting Keys implode

hoping second set is competitive

This is not the Keys we've seen the last few weeks

brainless Keys has returned. She's showing why she hasn't won a slam yet.

No way should Barty be dictating so many of the points. Sure the slice can be tough to navigate but Keys is missing on easy shots too today

Barty def. Keys 6-1 6-3

solid stuff from Barty but Keys was mostly woeful

Barty is old school great. She really constructs points. Three or four shots ahead. I love watching her. She makes no errors.

Keys, who I root for, isn't even worth commenting on. She was that bad.

I'd love to see Barty have to contend with Navratilova at her peak. Those slices would not keep MN from constant attack.

Collins off to another hot start double break 3-0

Danimal is swatting Iga like a mosquito. Damm.

Glad for Ash, SUCH a great, controlled, smart game she has. Hope she wins it.

Collins fierce ball bashing. No prisoners taken.

Collins is thirsty for that final.

I wonder if she can push Ash to three sets.

Iga's game really is best suited for clay, not surprising her slam is RG.

Krazy and the Kokk

Collins was awesome today, gotta hand it to her. Hopefully she and Barty both bring their A game for the final, it would be a good contrast in game styles.

I think Nick definitely wants some of that Kok

I'm trying to work out why Berrettini's lower legs look so weird. Is it the shape, that they are thinner than usual or simply the proportions compared to his thighs that are off?

Collins pounded Barty in OZ last year, right after the AO, and before her lady parts diagnosis.

Collins randomly becoming a grand slam champion would fit with how the wta looks right now.

Get used to me winning Gays!

Barty is the first female Australian player to reach the AO final since DL fave Wendy Turnbull in 1980

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Wendy puts the “bull” in Turnbull.

Compelling, now he wants us to say that Danielle Rose Collins, tennis’s sweetheart, is compelling.

Thanks, R146. He actually used their word.

DaniYell Collins has posted an IG story before using a Trump brush to clean her toilet. So I take it she's not a fan?

LMAO, who knew that such things existed? I'd get one but I don't want that hideous thing in my beautiful bathroom.

I am rooting for Rafa, 100%!

First I was cheering for Novak, but he got deported. Then I rooted for Rublev and soon he was out. Third choice was Zverev and he lost to Shapo, then Shapo to Nadal.

Nadal, I am with you.

R139 = Barbara Bush

Wow, R141, what are your criteria for the players you support? Other than Rafa and Rublev, I'm guessing civility, professionalism, integrity, humility and intelligence aren't common factors.

Er, R140, that is.

R142 You really are in need of coffee. You didn' t understand why I started to root for Rafa.

I'm rooting for whoever can beat Nadal. I'd like to see Barty win the women's title.

I'm split on both of the semis.

I'll be happy with whoever wins the semis and the whole thing.

I’m not a Collins fan but her “humble” beginnings and the fact that she’s a college grad are good for the sport.

Trailer Park Girl team. Not a fan of the little butch Aussie. Is she lez?

R147 Is she Tonya Harding-level white trash?

Rafa!

[quote]Not a fan of the little butch Aussie. Is she lez?

she has a fiancé

I want Barty and Rafa for AO 2022 champions

Some of these "butch" looking tennis players can look pretty off the court. I'm thinking of Jen Brady and Sakkari.

It would be amazing if Collins could win a Slam. It's incredible that she made it this far. I'm okay with either one winning.

that would be nice if Collins isn't a Trumper

she does make me laugh sometimes with her behavior. I want to see her play Andreescu, Fernandez, Putintseva and some of the other very demonstrative players this year

I'd love a Berrettini vs. Tsitsipas final but I know both are underdogs are in their SF matches tonight

R155 Cici is not bad at all.

I actually think TsiTsi has more game than Med (albeit barely). But he's a mentally fragile. See last year's FO as proof. He had that won.

If both are on? Could be a fantastic match.

But Med will probably win in 4.

Collins vs. The Forehead would be epic.

I think Berrettini has a shot. He's a much better player than when he lost to Nadal in the semis of the 2019 US Open. I saw that match and I don't think Berrettini played that well after he lost the first set tiebreak. He gave Djokovic competitive matches in last year's Wimbledon final and US Open quarterfinal. He's going to have to serve better against Nadal than he did against Monfils. He needs to get into Nadal's service games early and put the pressure on while holding his own serve.

Tsitsipas-Medvedev is too close to call. If the Tsitsy who showed up against Sinner is on the court, he could win, but as R157 correctly notes Tsitsy has not always shown the strongest mental toughness. I still can't get over him blowing the French Open final last year. That was so disappointing to watch. Medvedev showed a lot of grit against FAA. Even if Tsitsy is playing well, Medvedev will fight. I just wonder how much he has left in the tank after the FAA match.

we'll see if the 2 days of rest has helped Berrettini or not. He's had some long matches to reach the SF and we know he's injury-prone. The key for him will be to try and avoid Nadal getting at his backhand.

Yeah, some of these tennis girls really throw off my lezdar.

I’d love to see one of the Young Guns beat Rafa’s sweaty bald-headed twitchy ass. LOVE.

Matteo may lose his cool like shapo....who knows?

we shall see

I would love to see nadal win another one.

Of the big 3 Nadal is the one I'd be most happy to see that the record lead, then Federer. Least and certainly least based on his bullshit is Djokovic.

Shapo had no cool to lose.

Oops meant last and certainly least

Watching a replay of Women’s Semis on TC now. Gosh Barty is spectacular. Her post match interview with Cames — she’s so articulate and gracious. Love. Her.

I see so many comments about Barty dissing her being number 1. Why cant people deal with Barty's slice? Why cant anyone overpower her? Shes not hitting that hard. Barty is quite the athlete, an amazing counter puncher, her slice is the best since Graf and for someone so short her serve is amazing. There are many reasons she is an excellent number one.

People that are complaining that Collins isn't slam material have already forgotten the last slam featured a final between Emma Raducanu and Leylah Anne Fernandez. Who knew who Barbora Krejickova was before she won the French?

Everybody is slam material these days!

Rafa team or Berreteami 🐻?

Tsitsy team or Medvedev team?

Rafa!

This is the photo the NYPost ran with their Collins-in-the-final story (she's on the left).

If Wendy Turnball reads the New York Post her head would turn and her balls would ache.

lol well it's the NY Post. They're more of a tabloid

Collins is on the right in that photo.

Rafa team

Rafa team.

Titsy team

I think twitter world might explode if Rafa wins it all.

VAMOS!

Early break for Rafa!

I break no?

Rafa, resplendent in purple and white, accessorized in beautiful green headband and wristbands. Look at that freakin' bod, an athletic machine.

I'll never be awake for Medvedev and Tsitispas at 3:30 AM.

Berrettini with too many errors but at least he looks good in those Hugo Boss outfits.

Just announced on ESPN - Jack Sock has tested positive for Covid. Is he an anti-vaxxer?

REAL stinker of a match from Berrettini. He has rarely crushed forehands like he usually does and he's not going for super huge serves. He's putting lots of safe spin on his shots and Nadal isn't bothered 1 bit.

Like Keys yesterday, he's changed his game up and it's not working tonight

they both should have gone crushing the ball since that is what got them to the SF

Me beated white boy easily. Now me beat fellow brown boy easy. ¡Vamos!

Finally! Big Sexy is awake and playing the way he needs to play

crushing serves and forehands. The way he dictated play in the 4th set was a sight to behold

doubt he can keep it up but at least he got a set

RAAAAFFFFAAAAAAA!!!

VVVVAAAAMMMMMMOOOOOSSSSSSSS!

I so want Rafa to win this in 4 sets.

Berrettini let Nadal off the hook in that last serving game

Rafa needs to break Berettini's serve pronto.

I want Rafa gigantic ass to win!!!!! YUMMY!

Matt is the most beautiful player right now in tennis but I want Rafa to win.

Apparently closing the roof and playing indoors hurts Rafa. Makes his top spin less effective.

They are at deuce. Berrettini serving. Vamos Rafa!

Advantage RAFA!

What a nail biter.

Berrettini CHOKE in that game

YESSSS! He broke serve! Now Rafa serves for the MATCH.

holy shit Berrettini has missed so many put-away forehands. He's definitely tight again sadly

Two more points to go for Rafa!

Berrettini is hot but Rafa's huge ass is hotter!

Berrettini just isn't a hardcourt player. All his titles are on clay and grass

Berrettini just got nervous. He's been at the semi final so many times, and feels it is his time to move on. I believe that is fatal. You just have to play the game.

40-15. One more point for Rafa!

No one has a stronger mental game than Rafa. He just stays so cool at these crucial moments.

HE DID IT! He's in the FINAL.

And in only 4 sets!

YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

overall not a good match from Berrettini. He got hot in the 4th set but played like shit the rest of the match. Nadal gave him chances in the first and fourth sets but Berrettini was too nervous to take advantage

some wild misses

the backhand is a weakness for sure

not enough centering his game on a huge serve and forehand

Nadal really got lucky at this AO

- avoided Kokkinakis in round 2 and more importantly a very biased Aussie crowd that might have bothered him

-avoided Karatsev

-avoided Zverev

-avoided deported Novaxx

final should be tough for him unless Medvedev and Tsitsipas wear each other out in 5 long sets later tonight

Rafa is the greatest! Love him!

hoping for a trash talking classic from Danil and Stefanos!

Medvedev has already had 2 incidents this AO but both opponents were non-reactive:

-against Cressy yelling "this is boring!" and calling him "lucky"

-against FAA he was imitating his grunt

c'mon Medvedev and Tsitsipas trash it up! Don't let me down boys❤️❤️❤️❤️

I must give thanks:

To Pete, the god of the running forehand. I give thanks.

To Andre, the god of taking it on the rise. I give thanks.

To Llendl, the god of total assholeness. I give thanks.

To Muster, the god of Thighs. I give thanks.

To Daddy Courier, I sacrifice an up and coming Czech phenom's ass. As thanks.

(I will thank Fed, the Gazelle God, if Rafa wins Sunday.)

Or maybe Rafa is a great consistent tennis player with a mind like a chess strategist, and better than the rest.

It's amazing to me that not even the headlines give him credit. Probably because they're tired of him winning.

R216, Rafa has always been under appreciated. Always. It's what made me root for him a million years ago when everyone thought Fed was the second coming.

Rafa doesn't give a shit. Just puts his head down and works. And yes, he's a brilliant strategist.

R217

I agree. Part of him doesn't care; the journey really is important. And that is part of his detachment, and what helps his game.

R212 I think it's a combination of luck and grit. He never gave up. I have been a fan for many years. I actually don't think he's as talented as Fed or Djokovic. I think he is as good as he is due to work. He has worked to become one of the best tennis players in history. It's his fighting spirit, his mind, making wise decisions. Being a good tactic is definitely part of his success.

tight first set

Stefanos saved 4 break points in that game, was down 0-40, then a bunch of deuces, christ. He's sweating buckets.

Jesus, that Greek fellow is scaring me right now.

Rafa ain’t that quick. 😳😳

wow Medvedev sneaks out the tiebreak

Tight tiebreak too but Medvedev has the edge. I can't see how Rafa beats him either.

this seems to happen quite often - a player wins a break or a set and then they get broken the next game.

Even if it goes fairly long the winner of this gets 48 hours or so to recover. That's enough time.

Serious speed and firepower from them both.

Choke by Medvedev. What an awful game.

Two nasty DFs from Med there, he hasn't been good at taking break points either.

Medvedev is bothered by Tsitsipas' dad talking lol

Medvedev RAGING on the changeover

lmao yes here we go

I was waiting for Medvedev to start up his drama

saying Tsitsipas' dad is "talking every point"

shouting at the umpire he's stupid and "look at me! I'm talking to you!"

this is going to get juicy

Med heard R214 and delivered.

Chuck Daddy Dearest out. Cheatypases can't stop cheating!

I hate TsiTsi, but I want his daddy in me all day, every day.

lol Stefanos replying by doing over-the-top fist pumps

he knows that will piss off Danil ❤️️

I love that they hate each other and aren't afraid to show it time and time again match after match ❤️️

Medvedev has left the court!

And now he's back.

Medvedev is missing so many sitters. Looks really off.

But that serve bails him out like usual.

I'd love to see a messy match between Medvedev and Murray. The verbal back and forth would be quite amusing

The Titsy/Med semi is showing promise of being an acrimonious dogfight. Buckle up.

I'll be back!

Cheaty falling apart! We love to see it!

Cici coached from daddy

Stefanos handshake lol

he didn't even stop. He kept walking with his hand out

Yeah this final is a toss up. Medvedev is impressive but Nadal has gotten to 20 grand slams for a reason.

Rafa v Med, wow. Should be very good, both mentally very strong.

Ima say Med. Great server, tall, and his two-handed BH can probably handle Rafa's FH.

This umpire is so hot. What's his name?

Med will win. This is coming from a Rafa fan.

R248 Medvedev definitely has the edge but one should never count out Rafa.

I love Med's beautiful green eyes.

I love Rafa's beautiful, round ass.

Mad Lad has beautiful boyish brown eyes. Or maybe hazel. But not green.

Nadal all the way. I hope.

Djokovic's Covid test results don't add up.

Wow, what happened to Med? When he lost to Rafa at the 2019 US Open, he was so gracious.

Now I'm not ready for this asshat to win.

Does he play better when he gets pissed off, or worse?

R256

I hope they kick him out of the French Open too. What a turkey.

I feel Meddie will win it. He almost won against Rafa in 2019 (the match was a 5-setter).

Not that I'm a Med fan, given that he shouts at people and is turning out to be Djokerdick Junior.

But he is a superb player on hardcourt.

I am rooting for rafa

I'm glad Greek asshole lost

I remember that British press used to have contest for the ugliest football player during the European and world championship. I believe that if they had it now Rafa would definitely win this contest.

what is a "small cat"? is that an insult in Russian?

A small cat---a rat?

I will never like greek asshole and hopes he wins nothing.

R263

I'm not a betting man, but if I were, I would bet that Rafa's asshole on a bad day looks better than your mug on a good day.

I think 'small cat' = 'pussy'.

Nadal is gross. Some of you have low standards.

R249 Jaume Campistol.

Yea, small cat is pussy.

Depending on what Rafa brings to the final, FAA has been the only one to take Medvedev to the brink this AO. That match would have made a great final (an even better one if Felix had converted one more deciding break point).

I glad Danii called out the umpire.

R265 Nah, you are just projecting, cause you are ugly.

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Medvedev may be an asshole on frequent occasion, but of the current top four he's the only one with any integrity.

Medvedev wil be the new #1 next week, correct?

R275 Only if he wins.

Djokovic will either lose his no.1 spot or Nadal will reach 21 before him. Get fucked antivax cunt.

r274-Throwing coins at a Jewish umpire after losing to a Jewish player AT WIMBLEDON. He's smart and plays the media well but integrity? No. He's a selfish, racist, asshole, Russian pig.

R278 What happened, some Russians refused to fuck you?

Daniil wasn't wrong. The Tsitsipas bunch cheats as much as they can. The small cat thing was hilarious.

Yes, R278, I don't like him at all much of the time but he's a "selfish, racist, asshole, Russian pig" who doesn't cheat.

Don't get me wrong, but it is silly and unfair when you Americans call Russians racists, after centuries of enslaving and discriminating against Blacks and genocide against Native Americans.

R278, the throwing coins incident was before he went to see the shrink right?

As my Portuguese grandmother used to say, R282, two wrongs don't make a right.

Tsitsie cheats, but Med is still an insufferable asshole

I love the umpires’ sting operation, lol

[quote] Nadal is gross. Some of you have low standards.

More for me!

Eva Asderaki is a badass.

R272

Your breath smells like farts, but that's because your face is an asshole.

R278

Med lives up to his Russian reputation as an asshole anti-Semite.

He'll probably invade Ukraine next. What a dick.

Getting tired of these superstars losing their shit. It's just a game of tennis.

R289 You are projecting again. Farts are all you can think about because you lost control of your prolapsed anus. You are such a disgusting dirty old queen, the nurses don't want to come near you in your insane asylum and you are drowning in your own shit and thus writing shit.

Can we please get back to tennis?

How many times is Tsitsipas going to get caught cheating before someone actually takes action? Start banning dad or issuing fines. It's ridiculous that it happens so often.

R294, he does get fined, but the sums are for him, laughably small. He needs to have points docked, at the very least. If it was good enough for Serena, why not for him?

Damn. The one player I didn't want Rafa to see.

Med is just so strong on HC. I'd give 33 year old Rafa a great chance. I'd almost guarantee the win.

But at 35? He's so clearly lost a step or four.

Med in four. Which breaks me heart to predict.

I love the fact that goddess Azdereki was stealthily prowling under the stands to betray her countryman.

Rafa's cheating is legendary.

Cheating is ingrained in the Russian culture. When Russia had the gameshow where you get to "ask the audience" the audience would purposely answer wrong to make the player miss. Evil pricks.

R299 You really are Russiophobe. Have you been to Russia or met Russians or is it just fear of different?

It's not russiaphobia it's a fact. How many Olympics have they been banned from? How many athletes.

They cheated in the 2016 US elections, remember that? Google it.

There are volumes written on the subject.

R301 So you don’t know any Russian. You read it on Wikipedia?

I went to university with a group of them they cheated in every way they could, like a sport.

Not that you can’t find a lot of bad things Russians have done, but you can apply it to many other nations too.

Yes, that's true, but it's considered shameful and not glorified by the President and valued by the populace.

^Until recently.

I worked for a bank. I took a required ethics course that was also attended by our head of Russia bank sales.

They gave us a scenario: you discovered that a major client has been over billed over the past few years. What two you do? The Russia guy (Russian himself) says we do nothing. Keep overcharging them. I was like, dude, this is an ethics course! I think you know the right answer.

Never heard of JP Morgan Chase and Goldman Sachs R308?

I don’t mean to be rude R308, I see you are a nice fellow, but I think you might be prejudiced against Russians.

🛑🛑🛑🛑🛑

Enough of this nationalistic/political crap.

Craig Tiley's is more than enough cheating to discuss for this AO.

Rewatching the Nadal match, or actually watching it now that I know Nadal won 😛

Holy hell that Italian is gorgeous 😯

R312, yes, what about the failure to DQ Nick after he hit that kid? Don't tell me tennis just another arbitrary lawless wasteland . . .

If Tiley had his way, that's exactly what it would be, R314.

Berrettini is beautiful BUT Fabio Fognini is out of this world beautiful!

Plus, I will bet they both have HUGE penises!

I love the idea they had Eva Asderaki on court to patrol Tsitsipas. I actually think for every slam match, they should require to have umpires both in the chair and on court who understand the languages of the 2 players.

Too many times over the years we've seen and heard players get away with stuff because they weren't speaking English or Spanish.

I’m a calf man and Berrettini has terrible calves. Pity.

since we're talking about AO drama

FLASHBACK to this 2006 incident in which Kiefer threw his racquet to distract Grosjean from hitting a shot while both were at net

and the year before that, in 2005

we had the classic Hewitt vs. Chela spitting episode

They used to get away with a lot less at the AO.

Med angrily calling the umpire a “small cat” really made me laugh.

That's gotta be some Russian insult, not Karol Kucera.

[post redacted because linking to dailymail.co.uk clearly indicates that the poster is either a troll or an idiot (probably both, honestly.) Our advice is that you just ignore this poster but whatever you do, don't click on any link to this putrid rag.]

yes, I got a lot of pleasure watching Danii give out to the umpire. I watched the video a few times. I don't know how that umpire never reacted and stayed so calm.

Are you stupid?!

Med calling the umpire "bro".

Super disappointed in Berrettini's play against Nadal. These young guys should be beating 35 year old journeymen. I fear Nadal may win this whole thing. Medvedev will have to be a bit more aggressive against Nadal. I worry he'll be out of his comfort zone doing that and Nadal might get an early lead then run away with it, although really Medvedev should have beaten him at the 2019 US Open in that final.

I'd like to see Barty win tonight. I hope it's a good match.

[quote]35 year old journeymen

journeymen? lol, in no universe does that mean Rafa

R327, Rafa definitely will take an early lead. That’s his pattern. He has to start out as strongly as possible, because—as you can see even in the USO 2019 final—his level tends to drop by the start of the third set. That time Medvedev seemed flummoxed and didn’t go in for the kill. He may not make that mistake again.

Here's video of the Eva Asderaki sting operation. She's the one standing in the tunnel below Stefanos's box.

I love Asderaki.

I'm perfectly okay with Small Cat winning Slams, just not this one. I want Rafa to get #21 here.

Time for Emma to move...

Fair enough, R328, but these young guys should still be beating 35-year olds who are part of the Big 3. It's a mental thing with them and it's too bad. We'll see if Medvedev can do it. He took down Djokovic but the occasion for sure got to Nole that day.

Barty hasn't shown any nerves so far except for the 2 opening games against Keys and Keys failed to take advantage.

Medvedev is a horrible person but I'm fairly sure he'll win the Nadal match. I think the only way Nadal wins is if Med has an off-day or chokes it away.

Didn't Laver win his second slam (the real kind) at like 37? It's not dead.

I also think Med will win, but if Rafa pulls it out I certainly won't be shocked.

I like a bit of verbal jabs sometimes between players but I'm not a fan of bigoted rhetoric. That is obviously unacceptable

Thanks, r336.

I'm more than sure this will never be mentioned again.

I really want Nadal to win, but based on his history in AO finals, I just don't see it happening.

A Russian being racist? Color me shocked. How does he feel about gays?

Thoughts on what Tsitsipas says about Medvedev's style of play? Wishful thinking/sour grapes or not?

[quote]"Yeah, he's a great competitor. He runs like marathon runner, he can run for hours and hours. I'm not sure myself if that's something that can last very long, having to run so much. Speaking from experiences like other players and champions, Grand Slam champions that I've seen, it had a huge impact to their body. But I respect the fact that he's able to run so much and make it physical out there in every single point."

R340 I would bet a lot of money that he he's similarly prejudiced against gay people as he is towards Black people and Jews. This is a personality trait for sure.

But at least I was thinking that other Russian players don't do shit like this at least, and there have been a lot of them.

Rafa and Novak both chase every fucking ball down. Hasn't hurt their careers, has it?

Laver won his second GS at 31, R337, and then he barely made a dent in the Slams after that. Rosewall is the only one to have won a Slam (the '72 AO) at 37.

R341 I think it depends on the player.

Just some recent examples-Hewitt's career was ended by his hip issues which he started having in his late 20s and surgery ultimately did not solve the problem so by his early 30s he retired

then you have Murray who also has hip surgery and has been trying to come back the last few years. We'll see how far he gets

then you have Nadal who has had knee and foot issues with some periods out of the game due to injury but he keeps returning at a high level

then you have Djokovic who so far has not had any hip, knee or foot issues. I think if I remember correctly his only recurring injury is his right shoulder.

Now Medvedev is even taller and slighter than Djokovic. His body doesn't look very strong but it's not all about appearances. I don't know what kind of training and prevention work he does

I'm hoping Nadal can do it.

[quote]A Russian being racist? Color me shocked. How does he feel about gays?

He seems supportive

Re. rankings, if Med wins he would be 90 points behind Djokovic - 11,015 to 10,925.

The plot thickens.

he said he's going to speak on the matter after the AO. I wonder if he'll do it immediately after the men's final or take his time

Med is juicing just like other slavic counties. Nothing new.

We all know that he never tested positive in December, never exposed anyone to anything (at least not then). The Serbs manufactured that test for him to try to get the exemption. Didn't put much thought into the details, obviously.

State-sponsored testing fraud. I'm sure they do the same for him re: doping. Crooked government, nothing out of there should be trusted.

in other news:

it's being reported that both FAA and Coric have pulled out of the Montpellier event next week

Coric should just be a porn star at this point. He is always injured.

Djokovic is toast if even the highly reputable BBC is sowing doubts about his positive test. I think it's obvious by now that he lied. His public image is damaged forever.

Depends if people have short memories I suppose. The tour operators are wanting to act as if nothing has changed - Djokovic will be playing in Dubai next month.

I'm going to Dubai!

[quote] To Daddy Courier, I sacrifice an up and coming Czech phenom's ass. As thanks.

Who is the Czech phenom?

[quote] R249 Jaume Campistol.

He resembles Orlando Bloom.

Barty team or Collins team?

Aussie crowd really getting annoying

it's never OK to cheer double faults

solid set from Barty

Collins isn't really bothered by the Barty slice. It's Barty's forehand that Collins has more trouble with, the opposite of Keys lol

These Aussies want to see one of their own win the Australian Open but yeah its tacky and rude to cheer double faults.

I’d be happy for either Barty or The Danimal to win… for different reasons but each would be a great story.

what do we think of Danielle's bf? He's in the purple shirt

[quote] C'mon!

Ugh.

Trailer trash with BDF, r365

ooh just heard he's a former college lacrosse player. Nice arms

I think the crowd is not going to like it if Collins keeps yelling "cmon!"

they haven't booed any women yet but they might since she's playing Barty. I heard the Aussie ratings for her matches were through the roof this tournament

Collins could just saying she was inspired by Lleyton Hewitt.

Terrible second set from Barty!

Is Rafa journeyman?

R372 whoever called Rafa a journeyman upthread deserves to never see Rafa's ass ever again.

Banned for life.

Cancelled.

Collins lost her bracelet?

Is Rafa clay specialist?

oop

from 5-1 now 5-4 back on serve

Collins goes for so much on return. Such low percentage tennis. When it clicks its impressive but otherwise looks like she isnt willing to play longer rallies.

and Barty does it

first Aussie in ages

It will be Barty party for Aussies tonight.

Ash Barty wins.

Tennisforum broke.

First Aussie to win singles Aussie Open since 1978.

Well done Ash.

I am late to Barty party. What I miss?

R343 Rafa and Novak have a totally different body type (and Rafa had a lot of injuries). Medvedev is simply too tall to sustain that kind of play for years and years

Barty totally deserves the win, she is the most regular top player in a good while, she is truly versatile and plays great in every surface

Goolagong looks bloated. She needs to take some Geritol.

Is she top player?

Very nice, gracious speech from Danielle Rose. She's really grown on me this fortnight.

yes nice words from Danielle

she's not that bad. Just competitive but she's not a poor loser.

Loving that Barty won and Evonne will present the trophy.

now Barty ties Kerber with having won 3 of the 4 slams

If only the start of the Aus Open concentrated on her but not that dickhead Novax! But glad she finished it well!!

And I really, really hope the KK doubles team loses to the unknown but far more polite Aussie team.

Dare I say Danielle's runner up speech endeared her to me?

She was lovely. And prettier somehow. Not so hardened.

It was a very nice and heartfelt speech by Collins.

I love the Kokk but I hope they lose too.

but imagine how much humping on court they'll do if they win.

Medvedev was fined $12k for his 'little cat' tirade.

Collins new career high of 10.

I am sure Kokkinakis is the kind of lover who is up for anything.

looks like Krazy and the Kokk are going to take the dubs title

I hope Nick rips down the Kokk's shorts and rims him right on court

Kyrgios seems to really like smacking Kokkinakis' ass lol

Loved that kiss!

As noted above, I think Danielle's speech was heartfelt and articulate. I understand some irritation with the "come on!" rants, but it's not THAT out of line compared to some of the gamesmanship, if it's even that. And, assuming that the Trump toilet bowl brush is a reflection of her politics, then that gives me another reason to like her. Overall, she's not my favorite player to watch, but I don't detest her matches either.

That boyfriend...she has great taste.

Apparently Danielle's boyfriend is Joe Vollen, who has dated Lucie Safarova before

[quote]Loved that kiss!

Did you notice how kyrgios touched kokinakis jaw? that was odd

[post redacted because linking to dailymail.co.uk clearly indicates that the poster is either a troll or an idiot (probably both, honestly.) Our advice is that you just ignore this poster but whatever you do, don't click on any link to this putrid rag.]

'What a week,' said Kokkinakis. 'Nick, I love you brother. I can honestly say we did not expect to even come close to this.'

Kyrgios added: 'This week has been a dream come true and I wouldn't want to do it with anyone else. I'm just super happy. I don't know how we're doing this or what's going on.'

Is Collins journeywoman?

Kyrgios kissed him back or was it one sided?

R409 The definition is: "An experienced and competent but undistinguished worker or athlete". I would say that now that Collins has reached a slam final and is top 10 she probably doesn't qualify. I would consider a journeywoman to be more likely someone ranked 50-100? But yeah, that's gonna be subjective.

I think Nick only kissed his girlfriend R410

Oh so it's was "look even the gays think I'm hot" moment for Kyrgios. How fucking dull and typical.

Kyrgios was very handsy with kokki whole match.

Krygios winning a grand slam title of any kind is enough to ruin my morning. He is despicable.

[quote]Kyrgios was very handsy with Kokki whole match

During the press conference Ben Rothenberg asked the compelling question if Nick K. touches the Kokk's butt as much when they're not on court together

Ben got more than he bargained for with that question from Kokkinakis. Ben didn't respond.

Danielle Collins is quite pretty off court

While I am praying for Rafa to eat Novaxx's lunch tomorrow, I'll be almost as happy if its Medvedev that eats Novaxx's lunch.

[quote]Djokovic is toast if even the highly reputable BBC is sowing doubts about his positive test. I think it's obvious by now that he lied. His public image is damaged forever.

[quote]he said he's going to speak on the matter after the AO. I wonder if he'll do it immediately after the men's final or take his time

The only thing left for him to do is to tell the truth, which will be a pretty tall order at this point given the 'deflections' that have been made so far ...

I saw a bit on ESPN last night where they compared Vax queens Kyrie Irving, Novaxx Djocovid and QAaron Rodgers and Novaxx and QAaron were seen the most unfavorably of the people polled. However Novaxx was still like 8pts less than Miss Rodgers who overwhelmingly is seen as dishonest and having handled their vaccine stance the worst.

lmao I cannot believe Ben asked that question!

then Kokkinakis asking "do you like it, Ben? You do, don't you?" and Ben was SILENT. I'm sure he was blushing. Kokkinakis and Kyrgios were smiling. They must love the attention and speculation they've gotten now from gay tennis fans.

Maybe they'll play all the slams together and Kyrgios will finger bang Kokkinakis at the USO

La Rothenberg regrets asking that question.

Maybe I'm a bit shameless, but I would have said "Yes, I do like it!'

you know he was probably masturbating to them before the press room

The fact that BBC is still digging around and questioning the integrity of Serbia's testing is proof that this won't really go away. WADA didn't want to deal with Russia's state-sponsored doping and secret labs until German TV did a documentary about it and forced their hand. We saw what has happened with Russia, and I see no difference here with what Serbia is doing. That country's leaders very obviously pulled a fake positive test out of thin air to try to qualify him for an exemption. Their doping results should also be investigated as none of it can be trusted in such a system.

The "good" news for Serbia is that it is a tiny shithole country where NoVax is easily the biggest name. It's not like they go to the Olympics and win a bunch of medals like Russia. How much does the world care that Serbia is willing to lie and cheat for its premiere athlete?

No question in my mind that NoVax is doping now. None whatsoever.

Has Ben ever actually confirmed that he's gay? I think it's a given to us, at least here on DL, but has he actually confirmed? Reading through all of his explanations about the question he asked in the above link, he dances around, acknowledging the "inappropriateness" of the question, and even suggesting that they're buds (his wishful thinking, I'm sure), but no definitive actual answer.

R427 He's said he's gay before. I think, if I remember correctly, someone was accusing him of being biased because he fancied a female player or something like that. I know Ben from his tennisforum days and he's never been 'in'.

To be fair to Ben, after some public spats with Kyrgios in the past, the two of them are friendly these days. Kyrgios has been on his podcast and both came across as pretty gracious and warm. According to Ben there was some 'banter' either side of that video above which was cut out.

A lot of hatred for Ben comes from the fact he was known to a lot of tennis fans as he was so prolific on the forums before he actually started working in tennis circles. A lot of it seems to come from envy as people resent how he turned a hobby into a career and they haven't.

Please, Medvedev, take out the balding Spaniard!

No, r428, I don’t think we hate Ben (& Courtney). I think we just like to mock them for their indefatigable promotion of what was basically unwatchable, boring, indefensible WTA tennis. Hence the snarky references to “compelling” WTA matches.

R430 I didn't necessarily mean people here on DL, though I do think there's a slight crossover between here and tennis forum/menstennisforum. I recognise a lot of popular twitter accounts from the forums and some of them are REALLY bitter.

Courtney is employed by the WTA so I don't think she has much choice but to promote those matches and try to find something positive about them.

I think it's overblown about unwatchable women's tennis

both men's and women's have shitty and amazing matches

it's unwatchable for me when you see numerous ATP guys choking against the big 3 these last 10 years. I'm not talking about the times when the big 3 played too well. There have been so many times when all 3 of them faced match points but then the opponent got tight

Ben did so well during the Djokovic saga but he embarrassed himself for sure with the butt question lol

I love the way the Kokk handled that question.

*applauds*

Apparently (and very happily), Jaume Campistol is family. It’s in the comments to the Tweet below.

I laughed at Ben's question and the response, R432. Better than wading through the usual slog of post-match predictable questions and canned answers.

Thank you, R428, for your answer. I think it's very plausible that people are jealous that he turned his hobby into a career. I'd still, for some reason, like to see him confirm, and I'm not sure I know the reason why. I guess it just seems disingenuous, and maybe a little self-serving. God, I sound like I'm the bitter one and I'm really not because I appreciate a lot of his output. Regarding Kyrios, I remember a few years ago when Kyrios tweeted that he was in some city, alone, wanting to have dinner or hang with someone, and Ben, like an eager schoolgirl, swiftly availed himself. It seemed so desperate.

[quote] Better than wading through the usual slog of post-match predictable questions and canned answers.

So what are you taking for your heart condition now?

R436 If you listen to his podcast he's not really hiding his gayness. I think, perhaps, he might try to be completely tennis-focussed and a 'serious journalist' on twitter etc. You see a similar thing with Catherine Whitaker and David Law on The Tennis Podcast. On TV and radio here in the UK they're completely straight down the line professional, careful not to rock any boats/bite the hand that feeds them and then on their podcast they just say what they like and the contrast is stark.

I agree with the person upthread who said Ben was great with the whole Djokovic saga and would add he's also been brilliant with following up on the Zverev/Olya case that others seem to have avoided completely.

Also, while I'm in a generous mood, I'd say Ben is probably very aware of the fact a lot of people see him as a nerd who got lucky so is trying (possibly a bit too hard) to be extra professional and be taken seriously. I think his over the top multi-post apology about that question would suggest that.

I think Ben would be more open about his sexuality if we ever get an openly gay top 100 ATP player. I bet Ben would be the one asking that player about what it means to to be the first etc

1 biggest questions I have about tonight's match is how will Medvedev behave?

Will he be respectful to legend Nadal? Or will he treat him no differently than he did Cressy, FAA and Tsitsipas? Will Medvedev get on the umpire if Nadal takes too long between points? Will he start imitating Nadal's grunts and OCD tics if he's losing or the score is close?

Maybe I missed it but so far I don't remember Medvedev acting up when he plays the big 3

just like I remember when Nadal was new on tour, he would yell "vamos!" and do fist pumps against everyone except his idol Moya and legend Agassi. When asked about why he didn't do it against them he said it was a respect thing lol

Medvedev seems to be irreverent and disrespectful no matter who it is. Disingenuous of Nadal to discriminate and give zero fucks about how he treats those players he doesn't respect.

Nadal seems like a sleazy guy.

^said no one ever including me, one of his biggest critics. I'm also one of Novaxx biggest fans, until this debacle and I hope Rafa wins as just punishment for Novaxx's lies.

He needs to come clean and admit the truth. It's not the crime it's the cover up.

R443, Rafa is actually seen by, I don't know, the entire known world, as one of the nicest mega stars on the planet.

As to the match? I just don't see how Rafa wins this. Keep trying to figure out a way in my mind and Med is just too much of everything for a Rafa who's lost steps.

Medvedev does not have a good record against Nadal so he is the one with something to prove in this match

Medvedev is a much better player compared to the matches they played back in 2019 when he lost.

Of course Ben is gay. This bitch LOVES drama.

The small cat umpire is just too hot. I love his chest hair.

R445, Med is 1-3 against Rafa. That's true. But those matches were before Med ascended. Plus, Rafa has finally slowed down. Past matches don't really matter in this case. Sadly.

ooh, Krejickova-Siniakova are down a set in the doubles final against unseeded opponents.

R450 Yay!

is she going to call a trainer?

Nadal has worked so hard. Pulling for him. GO RAFA!

I'm torn. I have a soft spot for Medvedev I can't really explain but really would like to see Nadal move into the GS lead.

Meerkat, Meerkat. Mrs F, are you safe in your secret room? I think we all know your husband may well be in a prissy yet murderous rage in a few hours from now and we wouldn't want you to found strangled by a giant donut tomorrow.

Come to the arms of Our Lord and Saviour, Meerkat. We embrace all. Well, except for those ethnics, people not of European extraction and those evil, sinful lesbians. I am sure you are none of those. As I was saying to Wendy Turnbull in the shower last night, it is our duty as good Christians to feed you, bathe you and milk you.

God bless You, Meerkat. By the way I hope you remembered to do what I told you to do. Did you leave notes around your vulgar Zurich mansion, all of them simply saying "24 >>>> 20"?

so far Nadal is putting more juice on his groundstrokes than Medvedev

The only semi I wanted—and still want—to see is that hot twink Shapovalov's.

Yum.

Medvedev clearly and smartly targeting Nadal's backhand early on. It's resulted in some errors already

Nadal who is usually a great tactician is giving Medvedev way too many backhands to hit. I thought he'd try to target the forehand more

wow, Nadal sublime net play

Nadal really having to work hard in his first 2 service games. He got lucky at 0-30 when Medvedev hit the ball right back to him

Medvedev with a break to love

It seemed like Nadal was starting to get the upper hand and dictate more with his forehand but Medvedev quickly regained control

Nadal sweating like crazy and they need to keep wiping the court lol

Nadal trying to mix it up in points with a slice or drop shot here and there but Medvedev is running everything down

double break 5-2

first set in the books

6-2

Welp. It was a great run, Rafa.

Here's to the Paris!

Does it really benefit the players to drink as much as they do? All of that sweating looks uncomfortable and like a distraction.

Meddy is cool as cucumber lol love him.

BBC's David Law drags Kafelnikov

R467 they have to stay hydrated. Sure having to pee a lot can be annoying but you don't want to start cramping. Less chance of cramping at night but it can still happen

it's so humid even Medvedev is going for the towel a lot now

he's not a super sweater usually

Medvedev 3 loose points Nadal played 1 great point and gets his first break 3-1

Vamos!! hope there's a rerun of that Kafelnikov-Agassi match.

total momentum shift now

Medvedev making more errors Nadal has cleaned up his game

Medvedev regained control and back on serve

Nobody wants this play-by-play.

We're over the automaton and the OCD spokesman.

Get help, Rafa.

crowd just cheered Medvedev double fault

what a weird set

looks like Medvedev is not quite confident with his forehand. He's spinning it in safely after having made some errors this set

a jackass just hopped on court and quickly escorted off

DRAMA!

The court invader was protesting refugee detention. It's like a ten foot drop from that level so I imagine he'll have some sore bones right now.

6-2 7-6(5)

2 sets up

Nadal had chances but Medvedev edged it out

I keep laughing when the camera pans to concern Nadal fans clutching their invisible pearls

Crowd booed Medvedev. Really undeserved.

have to say Medvedev has behaved well so far even with the very close 2nd set. The crowd is being unfair to him

they even booed when shot spot revealed a call was close that went against Nadal

are they drunk? or just so biased?

Eric Bana is looking delicious, btw

And Nadal takes the third set. I thought it would be a blow out given the way he started playing the third set.

well Medvedev let Nadal back into the match and now he took the 3rd set

real lapse in focus from Danil

Medvedev was just complaining about the crowd to the umpire, calling them 'idiots'.

This could go 6 hours.

Medvedev imploding

unbelievable but believable because we've seen this from various players against the big 3 over and over and over again

now Nadal suddenly has all the energy in the world lol and Medvedev looks exhausted

WTF Eurosport (Europe) switch from this match to go to 'IBU Biathlon'....

Medvedev needs to stop with the fucking drop shot lol he loses almost all of them

peak ATP compelling

it seems a 35 year old could outlast a 25 year old in 5 sets coming back from 2 sets down. Nuts

Medvedev is confirming what I first thought of him: he has no real cutting edge, no killer instinct. It has nothing to do with his ability; the fire isn’t there.

for whatever reason Medvedev has been playing really stupidly on most break points in the 3rd and 4th sets. Those idiotic drop shots when he could have just smashed the ball away for a winner are shocking. He's mentally mia

Fingers crossed.

Vamos!

Blimey!

these young guys are a joke

6 deuces to win that game :S

5-3......

C'mon Rafa, just need to hold serve 1 more time and he'll officially be the reigning GOAT.

Is that Rebel Wilson calling the outs on the left-hand singles line??

was that Iga Swiatek watching him? She really likes him, that's cute. She said that he texted her earlier this week.

Keeping him honest. He’ll have to serve for 21 if he wants it.

Yep, r506, that was Swiatek.

Oh boy. It's back on, probably 50/50 now.

Wha’???!!!

OMFG CHOKE

Mad fifth set.

Crikey!

Is he going to choke again?

Med was definitely making some ugly choking mistakes there, he doesn't normally miss those shots.

and choke right back

holy shit

craptastic finish

Holy shit, Nadal such an incredible story. To win this at 35, his least good slam.

Gramps weeping.

Djokovid surely must be having SOME tiny doubts about his anti-vaxxer stance?

Meanwhile in Serbia...

men's tennis continues to be a joke

wow

Nadal is officially GOAT thanks to massive idiocy by Shapovalov and Medvedev

unbelievable how 35 year old always injured can outlast the young guys

the big 3 dominance will NEVER end

someone else will have to make a new thread

I'm going to bed

R519 IMO Nadal isn't always injured, it's just a bullshit story they put out. No way he can always be hyper and running all over the place if he has 'crumbling knees'.

I want to know what Medvedev was saying to Nadal there, anyone know?

David Law must be feeling smug now. He's already ribbed Kafelnikov after Nadal won a couple sets.

Medvedev needs to quit the sarcastic faces at this point. I loathe the boorish Aussie crowd but he needs to let it go during the ceremony. Not a good look.

Holy shit do you see how Medvedev is mugging for the camera and mouthing "boring". What a fucking low class asshole.

These self-congratulating morons created the whole shitshow before the tournament. Both players are right to roll their eyes at their windbaggery.

Roll the tape back. The woman was congratulating HIM and talking about HIS success, he's a rude POS>

hey NoVAXX, there's a new GOAT in town.

Yeah, Med was so mad at the tournament organisers he licked Craig Tiley's ass during his speech. *eye-roll*

lmao 'Novak' is still trending on twitter.

Rafa- "The most emotional match of my life".

Sra. Rafa couldn't be there because she had a book report due and his sister stayed home to help her type it up.

Good thing Tomeu was there to give him the support he needs. Did you see Tomeu kiss his own hand and then rub Rafa's head. So cute. The commentators are trained NOT to mention who's who in the box.

For those who missed it, here's Med's rolling eyes and 'boring' comment.

RRRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Loved Nadal's huge grin when he won.

This AO couldn't have a better ending in my opinion. Barty and Nadal! Though I still wish Vika would win a slam, just 'cause.

Novak Djokovic: Deported.

I've made a new thread:

Well fuck.

Didn't see that coming.

R539, It's only a new thread, hun.