US Open, Queens NY
US Open, Queens NYThe US Open is the fourth and final Grand Slam of the year and could decide whether Rafael Nadal or Novak Djokovic claim the year-end #1 spot. Expect some spectacular night matches, celebrity attendees and a New York state-of-mind.
Hard court tennis can even out the playing field a little and there are plenty of players in the top 100 that can do some damage on the right day. US men’s tennis is on the up if not reflected in the rankings, that will catch up with itself. Right now, it’s a good mix of youth and age with James Blake, Mardy Fish and Michael Russell still with plenty of pep.
The new breed consists of Ryan Harrison, Jack Sock, Steve Johnson, Denis Kudla, Rhyne Williams, Tim Smyzcek and Bradley Kahn all within the top 150. One of those may break out this fortnight.
Let’s break it down:
ATP Level: Grand Slam
Surface: Outdoor Hard
Defending Champion: Andy Murray – The Murricane comes in as Wimbledon champ and 37-7 on the year. A rocky few matches recently should not matter though.
Nasty Floater: Vasek Pospisil – Anything is Pospisil for Vasek! Not seeded but don’t let that put you off as this kid is destined for great things.
Veteran Watch: Tommy Haas – It’s almost unfair to call him a veteran but statistically he qualifies. No one wants to find him in their quarter.
Up and Coming: Ricardas Berankis – The Lithuanian Lion had a good week in Winston-Salem and has been threatening to break out. Why not here?
Slumping: Roger Federer – It’s now or never to prove he’s still a major force and can challenge the top 4. Incredible to be saying that these days.
On Fire: John Isner – Long John has two titles and is a long shot for the title, trying to be the first US winner since Andy Roddick in 2003.
My pick: Rafael Nadal – Seems to have the mental edge and physical edge over every player on the ATP computer. Title #10 this year.
Did You Know? The completion of the retractable roof for Arthur Ashe Stadium is scheduled for August 2017.
Watch: Behind the scenes
Thanks for reading and check back in two weeks for more tips!
