Get your strings tightened and your balls polished - gearing up for Aussie Open

[JuanPotatoTwo]

Happy New Year tennis folks (and others of course, if there are any) :)

Getting very very excited to see Pot back in action, feel like a hyperactive child rather than a middle aged woman. He didn't make it to Brisbane so wasn't counting on Sydney but he's there. Look:

www.facebook.com/245291448857687/photos/a.519072434812919.1073741828.245291448857687/784944874892339/?type=1&theater

Nice pictures

Am really looking forward to the start of of the Aussie Open. Am hoping Rafa does well, and that all the newbies do themselves proud.

excited!!

Hey Raahh, long time :) I'm very excited too. Fingers crossed for a good season.

Excited. [Tennis]

I've forgotten how to do it.

[Ball]

Arse.

[ tennis ]

small t

Thanking you Raahh.

You've gotta persist with them there balls

Oh bless :) Pot won his first match back on tour after nearly a year :) :) He didn't expect to he says. Next opponent is The Fog. I'm so pleased for him. His wrist is still painful though so don't know how long this return to tour will be.

Would it be very foolish of me to set my alarm for 3. 30 am? !

I didn't realise how far Potato had dropped in the rankings. I hope this run gives him some confidence for the season.

I know, he's 300 and something. Well I did set my alarm - and they bloody well weren't showing his match. BUT - he won v The Fog so is playing again tomorrow - and this time they are showing it and alarm is set again. :)

I see Rafa is seeded 3 for Oz Open. Gulbis at 11 - seems a long time since his run at the French. And surprised to see Klingon as high as 32? It's exciting. Just wish they didn't keep such inconvenient hours in Oz :)

Its next week isnt it? Already? good.

Team Andy here. .

and Team anyone but Serena or maria!

Yes, starts on 19th Trenza. I'm with you on the Serena/Maria hopes :)

He lost :( Still, it's a promising start to his comeback. Can't wait for next week.

Would it be very foolish of me to set my alarm for 3. 30 am? !

Yes!

I won't see much of the AO as no sky or eurosport here but will be following.

I wonder who the bookies are favouring to win?

Phew found you!
Looking forward to the AO, my children don't sleep so I get to watch quite a bit

I have missed GS tennis so much. It's like the year officially begins now, already dreaming of Paris and some orange clay - and some sunshine.

All the important (Rafa, Fed, Novak) matches have to be on Sunday or Wednesday nights to match my day off the next day so I can organise my watching

(practicing)

I've finally had a look at the draw, and am a bit Nadal has Youzhny , and Potato has Janowicz in the first round.

I have everything crossed. Since some have landed qualifiers, jammy buggers

Well done to Heather Watson, on winning the Hobart title. I really hope she has a good year.

Just looked at the draw and downloaded the app (it has radio coverage apparently)
Youzny, rosol, then either Gasquet or Anderson for Rafa if all goes not form, not a easy draw. As much as I hate to say it I think he's gonna struggle, but if he can get through the first few rounds then maybe...
And poor potato, I'm betting he was hoping for a much easier first round.
Djokovic and Stan are in the same half again so could be a semi meet I think.

I'm worried for Rafa- really tough draw. I just want him to get through to at least the second week. But - I believe, Vamos Rafa!!!

But worse for Potato, Janowicz hasn't exactly lived up to the hype, but he's a tough opponent, and his serve will be crucial.

Hello all !

Just seen this lovely new thread so I'm checking in. I'm really looking forward to the AO & chatting to you lovely lot again.