The rise of Ash Barty

Genuine, humble and respectful are the words coach Craig Tyzzer used to describe the new World Number 1 Ash Barty.  They are exactly what you’d like to hear about any sporting champion. Last night in defeating Germany’s Julia Georges in the Birmingham final Barty became the first Australian women to ascend to the top ranking since Evonne Goolagong Cawley did it in 1976. Continue reading The rise of Ash Barty

Federer vs Nadal 39

It’s the dream matchup we didn’t dare possible before this French Open started, we didn’t think we’d see it again on the dirt of Paris.  Tomorrow nights’ semi final between two champions who have pushed each other since they first met in Miami in 2004 will play for the 39thtime.  Rafa leads the head to head 23-15, although Federer has won the last five but Rafa leads their French Open matches 5-0. This will be tasty. Continue reading Federer vs Nadal 39

French Open Thoughts Week 1

The big 3 cruise

Federer, Novak and Rafa have all looked good in their opening rounds; only Rafa has dropped a set, last night to David Goffin, the Belgian roadrunner.  Federer was tested in the 3rdround by Casper Ruud, who took him to a tiebreak in the 3rdset but came through in straight sets, hitting 11 aces and 52 winners, the Swiss plays Leonardo Mayer next who he leads 3-0 in the head to heads. Continue reading French Open Thoughts Week 1