Federer was zoning and the winners just rolled off the backhand and forehand. Nadal tried but I think Federer used the formula that he found success with in Australia and condensed it and sharpened it even more. He just looked so confident. He took Nadal's time away during rallies and Nadal was constantly on the backfoot running from side to side scurrying to get the ball. Nadal could neither get into a groove or a rhythm, Federer simply wouldn't allow him.

 

Novak looked mostly subdued in his match although he clearly tried to ignite a fire in himself several times during the match but each time it was short-lived and he couldn't break Nick so he couldn't find a way back into the match. Nick got that early break, felt confident and never looked back. He's not intimidated at all.

 

 

I so wanted that win for Nishioka, but man does that kid have game.  What a story for someone who came into the tournament as a lucky loser. And he's only 5-foot-7, and he's ballin' with the big boys. Japan has two really strong ATP players to look out for.

I went to bed while Muguruza and Pliskova were still playing so I didn't even know the results until just a few minutes ago. I also completely forgot there was another match to be played but I'm so glad I didn't stay up. 

 

Sounds like Thiem was razor sharp while Monfils may have been slightly injured. Monfils played better when he was under the flu earlier in the week, LOL. He can beat Federer and Stan but stays losing to Thiem. Thiem is talented but to lose in straight sets. Whatever Monf. 

 

Well, Thiem shouldn't be too tired to face Stan, lol. That QF could be interesting, if Stan actually comes to play.

 

 

 

 

Edited March 16, 20178 yr by DramatistDreamer

10 hours ago, Faulkner said:

I so wanted that win for Nishioka, but man does that kid have game.  What a story for someone who came into the tournament as a lucky loser. And he's only 5-foot-7, and he's ballin' with the big boys. Japan has two really strong ATP players to look out for.

 

I like Stan, but I really wanted this win for Nish.  He's got quite a future ahead of him!

35 minutes ago, ChitHappens said:

 

I like Stan, but I really wanted this win for Nish.  He's got quite a future ahead of him!

 

If Nishioka can sustain this level, his future looks very promising as a singles player and possibly with Nishikori, as part of an emerging Japanese Davis Cup.

Roger was just phenomenal last night. Laughing at his dad quote to him. "Hit that backhand dammit!"....LOLOLOL

 

Nick just crushed Nole.

 

How did Nishioka lose to Stan? I wonder if he will have to qualify for Miami or will get direct entry?

 

Thiem dominated Monfils. It wasn't even close.

Rumors are Monf is going to make changes. Not happy about how the year is going so far. Is he getting rid of Tilstrom? I think it's a mistake if he does.

The theme music for ESPN tennis gets worse!  I guess the graphics are ok but I prefer TC theme music.

Dustin Brown vs. Borna Coric is happening now!

 

ATP Dustin Brown (GER) vs [5] Borna Coric (CRO)

1 hour ago, DramatistDreamer said:

Dustin Brown vs. Borna Coric is happening now!

 

ATP Dustin Brown (GER) vs [5] Borna Coric (CRO)

Thanks for the link!

I was surprised to see Borna playing the tournament. I wish I could have seen him play in person.

 

Can ESPN get rid of Mardy Fish? He sucks as a commentator!  Just like his game did and his coaching duties. I am surprised Mardy is not in Fort Worth with his pupil...Jared Donaldson.

Great match with Cuevas and Busta....was pulling for Cuevas though.

2 hours ago, Soapsuds said:

Thanks for the link!

I was surprised to see Borna playing the tournament. I wish I could have seen him play in person.

 

You're welcome. It's official--even the Challenger circuit has more available streaming of matches than the WTA.

 

Quite a few players entered this particular Challenger tournament. I guess many who lost early in IW didn't want to be at loose ends,  just idling until Miami, so they decided to play this one.

4 minutes ago, DramatistDreamer said:

 

You're welcome. It's official--even the Challenger circuit has more available streaming of matches than the WTA.

 

Quite a few players entered this particular Challenger tournament. I guess many who lost early in IW didn't want to be at loose ends,  just idling until Miami, so they decided to play this one.

I noticed that the field wasn't that bad at all.

Venus came alive a bit too late, but she made Vesnina earn that win.  Vesnina's game has improved significantly!  Good match!!!!!

2 minutes ago, ChitHappens said:

Venus came alive a bit too late, but she made Vesnina earn that win.  Vesnina's game has improved significantly!  Good match!!!!!

Definitely a good match. Vesnina has certainly stepped up her game. Her match against Mladenovic should be fun. Just rooting for anyone other than Pliskobot.