TENNIS Thread! The French Open is coming- will it be #RG10 for Rafa?

[Raahh]

or number 1 for Djokovic?

given recent form, things look less than great for Nadal-but he likes the big stage and slams are a different beast to other tournaments.

So- new thread to talk ( mostly) about tennis- though it's not compulsory., and we all have different favourites and respect that others might not love our favourites as much as we do.

so...a week to go. May Murray be less tired, Rafa more confident , and a happy tournament be had by all.

Vamos

My problem with Rafa's shorts (having studied them) is the shading. Which makes him look a bit sweaty. Unless he is sweaty. Need to do more research.

I wouldn't mind if Halys got one set - just to prolong Rafa's exposure. On-court exposure that is of course.

Sorry, Juan.

Was thinking the same, Raahh. Andy needs to get over himself and that camera. Doesn't bother anyone else.

I like the shading. Sweaty or no.

I was lucky that I did see Edberg in his prime- albeit at a smallish tournament in Manchester, but the second time it was the year he won Wimbledon. Unfortunately, when I finally made it to Wimbledon in '94 it was a second week match, and he'd already been knocked out

I would love to see Rafa live. It is probably not to be.

Noooo, Juan.

We don't want Rafa on court any longer than necessary.

I'd like Novak to have some 4/5 setters in the early stages.

Just for balance.

I would suggest a trip Raahh to Queens or Wimby but pennies are very limited these days.

I console myself that I see more on tv.

I've been really lucky to have seen most of them in action, I feel very privileged. Only trouble is, it leaves you wanting more . The last tournament we went to there was an elderly English lady (I know she was English because of the Daily Mail I saw in her rucksack ) who seemed to be on her own. She had her sarnies, some of that Capri Sun orange drink, a raincoat/umbrella, suncream etc and was having a great time. I though "that'll be me in a few years if I'm brave enough" and rich enough

That's it for Halys I fear.

Oh, I'd have no qualms going on my own. Got no friends who would go with me anyway, unless it was you lot.

Be lovely to do a trip out with you lovelies though.

MrV- I know what you mean. My one Wimbledon trip was courtesy of a university friend- he dad worked there. It was a lovely day.

Vamos Rafa.

I have promised DD1 a shopping trip when this is over. She got vouchers for Next at Christmas and we have never got around to spending them all.
Of course, it does mean I will miss some of the Djok match. And I am a massive fan.

I'd come on a tennis trip with you folks. I've been with dh a d ds1 and 2 mostly. Ds1 is a fan but the other 2 are just humour in me really. Would be great to go with like - minded folks.

Don't worry Raahh, enjoy your shopping, I will watch Djok for you. I actually do like him though :)

Ahh, look at his little smile.

Raahh

Perhaps by the time you get back Djok will be out.

I'd love a tennis trip. One day we should seriously discuss/plan it. Perhaps if we clubbed together we could save some pennies. I'd even camp for Rafa.

I'll be watching Djok. Unless they switch matches but I don't think they will.

One game for match.

Vamos Rafa !

Right- wrap this up.

Halys is a youngster with many years to play. Rafa needs this 10th title

Class !

Rafa almost seems like a different person here to the player he has been all year. He seems more purposeful and determined. Almost like he's enjoying his tennis again. I guess this title means an awful lot to him.

Right, Vamos.

Halys could be very good.

Rafa doesn't need the 10th, it would just be unfuckingamazinginglyfantabidozillybelievable if he did it.

I was thinking that he is looking much better than of late Juan.

Don't want to jinx anything though. I guess the tests will come later.

Hopefully he's feeling a bit more like his old self. RG must feel like home. Lets face it, it is !

I think Rafa needs longer to get going. 3 set matches just don't give him the time to play himself into the match.

This is his tournament. It's a shame it isn't in Spain- they would surely rename a court in his honour

Yay!

1 down....

Game, set, match in 3 !

Whoop !

VAMOS

Gratuitous chest shots!!