Munich and BMW Open - Bavarian Alps Tour

I got an amazing few days to enjoy Bavarian food, culture, and the outdoors. This stop-over trip in Germany was the 2nd European Spring in a row.

Got to fly on the new Luftansa flight from San Diego to Munich direct. On my way to Spain to attend the Madrid Masters 1000 ATP/WTA event, I decided to make the most of this pitstop!

  .

I drove South through the AutoBahn in a BMW 4 Series diesel. Petrol stations are interesting!

Arriving in the Alps, I stayed at an Airbnb cottage in Garmisch with a nice mountain sunset view for a few nights. The warm glow of morning greets you eagerly for nature's adventures.

Winter Olympics of 1972 - this giant Ski Jump now hosts a beer house!

The many outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes of Germany

BMW Open - Tennis and Cars

The winner Holger Rune, won a new all-electric version, the i4.

Enjoyed the tech innovations in Germany! I was hosted overnight by a BMW corporate employee.

 The special guided tour inside the heart of BMW Global HQ factory.

Finished autos are "delivered" onto the carousel platform, rotating on the 2nd-floor center showroom.

Hiking the Bavarian Alps -

Sunrise photos from the town of Garmish and then made the loop around Lake Eibsee.

Zugspitze - home of the World's longest ski lift

Reaching the summit of Germany. Channeling my Jimmy Chin (MasterClass) for this Canon shot.

Welcome to Austria! The International Mountain Pass Border over the Alps.

The Rooftop of Deutschland. More beer.

I also highly recommend exploring the Gorge in Garmisch-Partenkirchen with its scenic waterfalls!

The short rain made for more dramatic photos! With overcast skies as I hiked down to the valley gorge.

Fussen - a Storybook Fairyland town in Europe with painted walls of magic.

Click to zoom in! Castles of Mad King Ludwig. A great board game and a bucket list to see.

Photo Albums (Tennis & Travel)

• Munich
  BMW Open Tennis | Germany road trips of food and fun
  
  
• Next Chapter:
  
  Tennis & Travel in Madrid
  Madrid Open ATP 1000 - Spanish Tennis reunion for 2022
  Madrid's Magic: an Age of Alcaraz | Spanish Road Trips: Segovia, Avila, Toledo

Knowing life's red and yellow lights eventually turn green.
May you all discover your life's 2nd Mountain. Good luck!

Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey (2021)
This journey was inspired and narrated by Matthew's audiobook

"Catching green lights is also about Timing, the world's timing and ours. 

It can also be about sheer Luck and Fate. 

Navigating the Autobahn of Life in the best way possible. 

It's about getting Relative with the Inevitable at the right time."

Indian Wells vs Miami Open Tennis Tournament? March Masters Tennis - California vs Florida?

Indian Wells, CA or Miami, FL - our pick for March Tennis

The First two ATP Masters 1000 Events of the USA occur just a couple weeks apart. Although these are both offer top tier points for the top tennis pros on the men's and women's tours, they are also very polar in many ways. Nearly all of the Top 50 players in the world will attend both events.

West Coast vs East Coast

I have friends on both sides of the fence, some prefer one over the other.

If you live on the West Coast of the US and are a major tennis fan, then Indian Wells is an ideal spot to check out.

If you are on the East Coast, especially in Florida, then the Miami Open is closer to experience.

BNP Paribas Open

"the 5th Grand Slam"
My Trip & Team Tourney Review
HD Pictures | Discount Tickets

Pros:

• Excellent Practice Court Views (at eye level)
• Premium Facilities and Show Court Stadiums
• Low Humidity, Dry Heat
• Outdoors: Hiking, Golf, Tennis
• West Coast

Cons:

• Expensive Location! Avg Hotel Prices @ ~$250-$350/night
• 2 Hours Drive from the nearest major airport (San Diego or LA) not counting PSP
• Less Nightlife
  
  Background:
  Indian Wells is a bit more of the rich, active retiree destination - even most of the volunteers are over 55. Quite a different energy level than the younger Spring Break crowd in Miami.
  
  On the other hand, if you like a more laid-back atmosphere with more outdoor scenery, then Southern California is perfect. Joshua Tree and Coachella are both relatively close by. The Living Desert is a small zoo

Miami Open

Note: the location moved from Key Biscayne to Hard Rock in 2019.

This is what it used to look like. Most players, fans, and even on-site stringers call it the "parking lot".

"South American Slam"
Trip Review and Tips | HD Pictures | Tickets

Pros:

• Less crowded and packed overall
• Miami Beach is somewhat nearby
• Most marque matches are at night and have VIP seating

Cons:

• Hard Rock Stadium is super huge to walk
• VERY Humid - daily chances of heavy, quick thunderstorms
• Parking is very limited or expensive / shuttles are far away at the tournament (average 15-20 mins)
• The new Hard Rock Stadium where the Dolphins play* makes it much harder to see the players from the top deck.

Background:
There is more of a Latin and South American crowd at the tournament and around Miami. The fans are generally younger than at Indian Wells. The evening atmosphere is the "seen and be seen" South Beach fare. Usually, there are some large music/techno festivals held during this time of the year.

Overview and Summary

Fans Comfort: IW, much more enjoyable and cooler during the day
Overall Trip Cost: MIA, has slightly cheaper options available on the whole

Main Stadium Quality: IW (Miami is too big now, but open and central) / IW has better box seats
Secondary Show Courts: MIA (*more reserved stadiums at IW mean more ticket costs)
Practice Court Views: IW (Miami has lots of mesh fences between fans and players)

Food at Tournament: MIA (lots of cuisine choices, whereas IW has more shops/food off-site plus a few new fancy restaurants on the grounds)
Food outside Tournament: IW (great sushi and seafood; I ran into some pros in 2019)

Souvenirs: MIA - large store with merchandise in the shade with A/C;
Fan Zone Area: Tied; Jumbotron area at MIA more lively, Better lounge chairs at IW
Night matches are available at both, in case the weather gets super hot!
Swag / Freebies: MIA, more fun gifts and booths - lots of things to sample;

IW has a few Instagram locations to take selfies. Tennis-Warehouse free racket demo court but the lines are at least 15-30 mins long for every small group of 4-8*

Daytime activities: IW (if you like hiking, golf, wildlife)
Nightlife activities: MIA (parties, clubs, beaches).

Overall Winner - Indian Wells

Indian Wells: A

Miami: B+

If you've been to one or both of these tournaments, please leave a comment!

WTA Fan Poll from 2025

Top tennis stars in Washington DC at 2015 Citi Open

Capital Tennis action comes back to DC for 1 week only

Written and Edited by Tennis-Bargains.com Staff (Nik and JC):

After a placid June, DC summer temperatures are steadily rising again for the 2015 Citi Open in the heart of DC. The US tennis hard court season gets ready to roll next weekend, beginning on Saturday Aug. 1 at the Rock Creek Park Tennis Center. Get your tickets at Citi Open with this 25% USTA promo code

Media: Highlight Videos | HD Photos

The 2015 ATP men’s draw has three former US Open winners: Andy Murray, Marin Cilic and Lleyton Hewitt.

Andy has been playing his past tennis since the start of the year, with excellent showings at all the grand slams (Finals of the Australian, Semis at the French, Semis at Wimbledon) plus a stellar clay court season.

US Open fans:
Subscribe here for 2-for-1 ticket promo codes and alerts

A fresh and rejuvenated Murray is our pick to win this year. Marin Cilic has made a steady comeback from elbow and shoulder problems since his US Open triumph last year. After his Wimbledon QF loss to Djokovic, he believes he is peaking at the right time for the summer hard court season again.

Grigor Dimitrov (aka Baby Fed and Sharapova's bf), after a split with coach Roger Rasheed will be looking to make amends. While coach Rasheed was instrumental in getting Grigor’s fitness levels to tour-worthy levels, Dimitrov probably feels like he needs more match-specific strategy to make that elusive deep run for an ATP 1000 or Grand Slam title. Dimitrov is a treat to watch when he’s playing well; definitely a fan favorite at the Citi Open.

The Big Men

Ivo Karlovic is in the form of his 36-year-old life. Recently predicted via Twitter that he thinks he can play until 40 with the way he’s serving. Ivo’s also barely short of 400 aces from stealing the all-time ATP aces record off of his buddy Goran Ivanisevic. Ivo’s doppelganger is another super-tall server, John Isner, the top American seed in the draw and John’s always a title contender in any tournament he enters.

American Pride

Fellow Americans Jack Sock and Steve Johnson will also be at hand - Jack recently made waves when his forehand was measured to produce more RPMs i.e. rotation on his topspin than Rafa Nadal’s, Jack took a set of Nadal on route to a 3R loss French Open but only after topping Grigor Dimitrov in Round 2. He also won the US Clay court championships earlier this year. Lots of potential for Jack, if he's firing on all cylinders.

Next Wave of Young Tennis Prodigies

There’s also a strong contingent of up and comers in the draw - 19-year-old Thanassi Kokkinakis isn’t the main Australian player making headlines yet (20-year-old Nick Krygios gets that honor) and Bernard Tomic at 22 seems almost like the veteran of the lot.


Also up and coming is the young 18-year-old German 6’ 6” tall Alexander Zverev - he’s been under the gun for being too intense and some tour players including Fernando Verdasco recently questioned his on-court tennis etiquette and behavior but Alex says it all only to fire himself up.

Asian Stars on the rise

Kei Nishikori will make another appearance as the Top 5 Ranked Men's player in the world. Look for amazing backhands and flawless footwork from this guy. Hopefully, Coach Michael Chang will also be here to support his young pupil.

Hyeon Chung from South Korea is another young Asian prospect (#79 in the world) who’s been posting great results on the Challenger tour. At the Miami Open in March, I watched him take a set off Tomas Berdych. He's a very steady baseline player with some impressive shot selection maturity well beyond his years.

Strongest Women's Field in DC ever

The women’s draw this year features the strongest WTA draw we’ve seen in the city (pun). Led by Sam Stosur, Sloane Stephens, Belinda Bencic, and Svetlana Kuznetsova - there is a lot of powerhouse women players coming back to DC this year.

While all 3 of them are in somewhat a slump lately, hard courts are their best surface so they’ll be looking to kick into high gear. Sloane Stephens leads the American charge. While she hasn’t played her best tennis her in the past, she’s a fan favorite here in DC so look for her to have a strong run in the tournament.

Other American Women include Madison Brengle (with her success on the WTT Washington Kastles team), plus Coco Vandeweghe and Christina McHale returning to DC again.

Citi Open Photo Archives: 2014 | 2013

Citi Open in DC - a new fan's perspective

by: Jeamine Yoo (guest blogger and WTA consultant / DC tennis fan)

The Citi Opens

Shuttleloads of excited tennis fans were deposited outside William H.G. Fitzgerald Tennis Center grounds Saturday morning, myself included. Today was the first day of the Citi Open and my first foray into viewing professional tennis and anticipation was high.

History of DC's Pro Tennis Tournament

The Citi Open is one of 12 ATP (Association of Tennis Players) World and WTA (Women’s Tennis Association) Tour tournaments leading up to the US Open in New York. Players win points according to their results in each of the tournaments, with more points given to ATP World Masters 1000 and WTA Premier events. The Citi Open is a part of the ATP World Tour 500 series and on the third tier of the tournament, after the US Open and ATP World Masters 1000. It has gone through several changes since its inception in 1969 when it was called the Washington Star International - then more recently the Legg Mason Classic. The main update being men’s and women’s events merging to a joint tournament in 2012. 

Experiencing Summer Tennis at Rock Creek Park

The games today and tomorrow were and will be the qualifying rounds where 20 men compete for 6 spots in the main draw; and 16 women compete for 4 spots, including one woman that’s garnered my admiration, young up-and-comer, Taylor Townsend.

The qualifying games were quick—the best of three sets clinched the win. Men’s games were earlier in the day, followed by ladies’ matches, and the evening closed with doubles play.

The setup of the games was pleasantly accessible to viewers. The periphery courts—Grandstands 1 & 2, Courts 1 & 2, and the player practice courts—allowed spectators to come intimately close to the games and players, allowing tennis enthusiasts unrivaled views of the players’ choice of strokes and strategy.

As a recreational tennis player, I appreciated the close views and enjoyed the opportunity to wander from game to game in order to soak up the entire event holistically.

In addition to the accessible games, the community and family-oriented feel of the park was due in part to the distribution of 3,000 complimentary tickets, as well as the tennis clinics held for children and the multitude of colorful vendors handing out their wares and product information. The Citi Open is great at attracting varying levels of tennis fans by hosting special events throughout the tournament, whether it’s a Grand Marnier sponsored Happy Hour or a women’s tennis clinic, there are many activities to participate in between matches.

Friendly Venue for even casual sport fans

For all out there who haven’t attended or have been hesitant to go, try something new! Tickets are still on sale and can be purchased here. The matches are guaranteed to be exciting; pro players can be found strolling throughout the park and are friendly and engaging to fans.

A few tips for first-time visitors:

• Parking on the field ($10) is limited, so metro into Van Ness and take the shuttle—it’s seamless, convenient, and runs about every 15 minutes.
• Once inside, find the info booth and acquire a map of the venue
• Acquaint yourself with the day's Schedule of Play so you can plan your outing according to your player preferences.
• Do float around and soak it all in!
• Remember to bring and liberally apply sunscreen as most courts have no shade.

Stay tuned for highlights and predictions, but first, go buy your tickets!

Why you need to visit DC's Citi Open (Sept 26 - Aug 3)

Washington DC's Citi Open - 2014 US Open Series

by: Nik Subramanian (guest blogger and ATP consultant/expert)

It’s hard to believe we are halfway through the summer already and just 6 weeks away from the US Open in NYC. The good news is that the last week of July in Washington, D.C. means great professional tennis action at the Citi Open in Rock Creek Park.

The players’ list is packed with young and upcoming talent like Kei Nishikori, Milos Raonic, Grigor Dimitrov, Vasek Pospisil, Genie Bouchard, and others. So let’s dive right into the players you'll want to watch this year.

The Citi Open promises a lot of great matches with the top ATP players competing for the prize. If you haven't done so, grab your tickets, we'll see you there.

TIP: Use Promo Code: TENNISBARGAIN and get 25% OFF (valid for most sessions)

The Next Generation of Stars: 3 ATP Young Guns to Watch

The three guys who most agree represent the next generation of top 5 tennis players are all in the Citi Open this year. Kei Nishikori, Milos Raonic, and Grigor Dimitrov have each had breakthroughs in 2014.

Kei Nishikori (Japan)
Kei Nishikori reached a career high ranking of 9 at the end of last year. Despite some injury worries, I expect he'll finish the year in the top 10 if he stays healthy. Kei is speedy, has amazing groundstrokes, a great return, and is fun to watch. He's as no-nonsense on the court as they come and Coach Michael Chang has been trying to pass on his killer instinct and set higher goals for Kei this year. If he ends up playing on one of the side courts, be sure to watch Kei’s nimble footwork together with his amazing balance and core strength. It’s not as easy as he makes it look!

Milos Raonic (Canada)
Despite an ankle injury early in the year, Milos reached a career high ranking of number 6 in the world and is currently ranked 7. He's put up solid results in the Slams and Masters 1000's - his first Grand Slam QF at Roland Garros (l. to Djokovic), a first Grand Slam semi at Wimbledon, (l. to Federer), QFs in Indian Wells, Rome, and SFs in Monte Carlo. The consensus in the locker room is that Milos has the best serve on tour right now. While I doubt we'll see Milos attempt his 155mph serve, watch him with a seat behind the player's baseline to admire the variety of his serves (slice, kicker, flat) with pretty much the same ball toss. The weakest part of his game right now is his return, so look for that shot to improve as he works out the kinks with Coach Ivan Ljubicic.

Grigor Dimitrov (Bulgaria)
If you hear a bunch of screaming, hysteric teenage girls around the practice courts, you've probably stumbled onto one of Grigor Dimitrov's practice sessions. Grigor was already somewhat of a celebrity in 2013, but after teaming up with his super coach, Roger Rasheed, last year, Grigor is fitter, stronger, and extremely motivated to get to the top of men's tennis. Grigor's always had the talent to burn, but he's found a way to channel it and I expect he's going to have a great 2014. He's just broken into the top 10 this month, following an SF showing at Wimbledon (l. to Djokovic in 4 close sets), QFs at the Australian (l. to Nadal in 4 close sets) and has a won a title on all three surfaces in 2014. I'd be shocked if Grigor does not make it to the year-end finals this year and be part of or finish near the top 5. Watch Dimitrov from any seat in the stadium, look out for his precise first serve and his use of speed offensively to win points. You’ll find Grigor is an all-around crowd charmer and will throw in a trick shot and a tweener every now and then.

Early Predictions and Dark Horses

Rafa's 2013 - a tale of Recovery from Tragedy, Human Perseverance and Reclaiming World #1

After a long 7 months layoff from tennis because injury, trained and trained, day in and day out. He missed out on the US Open and the Australian Open. Instead of rushing to jump back immediately, he fought perhaps the greatest battle of his life.

Uncertainty during difficult times

In his book, Rafa, he confesses about how his greatest fear - inertia. If he had to stop playing tennis even for a few days, what would happen? It has been ingrained as deep as breathing into nearly every day of his life since a child. Being able to put it on hold for over half a year and believe he could return, means his faith is truly strong.

Admittedly there was doubt for even the most passionate Nadal fans. The big question to the entire tennis world was if - not just when - he would ever return to the game.

Staying Focused on Rehab

Following doctors orders, he put away his tennis racket and did not play any tennis for 7 months! Always in the gym, stretching, strengthening, doing all the workouts he could without injuring himself in rehab. Updating his facebook page weekly with pictures in the pool or relaxing with his family - nowhere near a tennis court. He was spurred on by the inspiring encouragement from fans; Rafa pressed on and stay loyal to his team's advice.

The test of patience

Watching his rivals climb over him and his rankings - I'm sure it must have been painful to be completely absent in nearly 3 Grand Slams.

Patiently, he relinquished the US Open Hard court season, the Indoor European season, the year ending ATP World Tour finals. Even then after the new year, he tested the waters carefully yet listened to his body and his coaches - skipping the Australian Open.

The thousands of ranking points slipped away; millions of dollars in prize money forfeited; optimism followed by caution to wait just a little longer, then a few weeks more... the tennis world wondered if this was the end.

Only he would be able to show the world if he could rise again...

Then one title after another, starting with a ATP 250 final, and from there his confidence grew and his body became stronger...

• Brazil Open
• Mexico Open
• Indian Wells BNP
• Barcelona
• Madrid
• Rome
• Roland Garros
• Montreal
• Cincinatti
• US Open

Ultimately, 2013 World #1, ATP Comeback Player of the Year, and 10 titles dominating almost every major hard court and clay court tournament on the tennis tour.

Year of Greatness: Reborn

Rafa not only came back in 2013, it turned out to be his best year of his career. The world witnessed a legend who crystallized the competitive tennis fuel in his soul so completely. In his essence so dedicated to the sport (every atom of his being, as he put it) that nothing could stop him.

The half-time intermission was over, he was ready. Not just 60% or 80% or 90% but his mind/body was hungry for it - like a predator that had not feasted. Absolutely determined. driven. unstoppable.

How many professional athletes in Any sport can go in into rehab for 7 months, come on the field in mid-season and still regain the pinnacle of champions by year's end.

Great Champions find a way. Vamos Rafa. See you in 2014!

Citi Open: Round of 16 Wed/Thurs Preview

Wednesday Preview

Tuesday was a fun filled night, see clips of the action here. If you get to the tournament site in the early afternoon, head over straight to Court 1 where Radek Stepanek takes on Michael Llodra. These are two of a dying breed - serve and volleyers (what's that you ask?). Right next door on Court 2, take a peek at the doubles action with former UVA alum Treat Huey and the booming serve of 6 ft 5, Domnic Inglot.

Rain Delays
Wednesday was only a half day because of the rainouts - therefore the play is "stacked" for extra action on Thursday. Check out this article on how to deal with rain delays at tennis events, and how to get a good deal from it!

Thursday Double-Headers

Thursday promises to be another action packed day with top seeds Argentine Juan Martin Del Potro, Tommy Haas and John Isner all taking the court. They may possibly have to play double-headers (back to back matches). Let's look at some of the best matches and courts to check out today.

First up is Juan Martin Del Potro taking on Ryan Harrison. This is JMDP's first match after his incredible Wimbledon semi so expect some early rust, while Harrison is confident after a straight set victory over former US Open champ Lleyton Hewitt yesterday. There should plenty of entertainment in this one.



Tommy Haas will be action on Center court taking on Tim Smyczek to finish their 3rd set. Smyczek is a crafty all court counter puncher but expect Haas to get through in straights despite coming back after a bit of a summer break. At the same time on the Grandstand, you can hop over to Melanie Oudin and Angelique Kerber.

At the same time if you want to get a first-come-first serve seating up front on Grandstand, you'll want to catch at least the first set of Jack Sock taking on Top 20 Japanese star Kei Nishikori. Sock's got impressive power and he'll have to stay consistent to outmatch Nishikori. Kei moves like the wind and uses his core strength to hit incredible ground strokes on the run. I'm going with Kei in 3 sets but this should be a fun encounter.

So dont wait folks, make sure you get your tickets here or head on over to Rock Creek Park and we'll see you there .

Citi Open - Early Round Highlights

Grigor Dimitrov aka. "Baby Fed"

Early Round Recap by Nikhil S.

An action packed Tuesday evening at the Citi Open in Washington DC - lot of great matches and young talent on display. If you still haven't visited this year, today and tomorrow (Thursday) are going to be great days to visit (click here for tickets and tournament info)

Somdev Devvarman (UVa Alum)

Upset of the day (Tuesday)

Somdev Devvarman (yes that two "dev's" in one name) taking out defending champ Alex Dolgopolov. Alexander has been affected by health issues this year nad he looked out of sorts but Devvarman showed incredible foot speed and great touch to pull this one out.

Matches of the day

Sam Querry vs Denis Istomin - 3rd Set Tie-breaker

In terms of drama, Sam Querrey's Houdini-esque escape after saving multiple points against Denis Istomin probably stands out. Both players seemed tentative in the final set tie-break with Istomin throwing in two double faults, to let Sam squeak through.

In terms of quality of tennis, the late night match between Marcos Baghdatis and Lukas Lacko on Court 1 might be hard to beat this week. Baghdatis moved like a cat counterpunching while Lacko glided around the court dictating play, as both guys traded clean flat groundies in this pulsating encounter. After winning a close 1st set tie-break Lacko looked drain a Baghdatis entered the zone clocking winners on the run to the delight of the gasping crowd. "Bag" as some of his inebriated fans nicknamed him last night, got the early break in the 3rd set and coasted along to close it out 6-4 in three tight sets.

Ryan Harrison - focused, tanned and ready

Other highlights: Young talents Jack Sock, Bernard Tomic and Grigor Dimitrov posted routine wins while young American Ryan Harrison notched an impressive scalp in ousting Lleyton Hewitt in straight sets. In the press room, Grigor Dimitrov handled the press with panache, skillfully deflecting questions about his "off court" media scrutiny. You can see a clip of his interview here.

Wednesday promises to be another action-packed day with top seeds Argentine Juan Martin Del Potro, Tommy Haas and John Isner all taking the court.

Make sure you get your Citi Open tickets here. See you there!

ATP Final: Alex Dolgopolov vs Tommy Haas

Post-Olympic tennis tonight on American Hard courts in DC -  US Open less than 4 weeks away!

A new contender vs the seasoned veteran.

Hot vs cold, Erratic vs calm, Young vs Old.

Tommy Haas - ATP Veteran
Photo by Mikhail Bezruchko.  COPYRIGHT Tennis-Bargains.com 

Tommy Haas

Tommy has already beaten Federer on grass in Germany just weeks ago. Although he did not get on the German Olympic team, this ATP 500 title would be a great sense of redemption and achievement.

He is playing his best tennis in recent history. Entering the "Agassi 2nd career" phase now at 34, Tommy looks very hungry for another title.

Well conditioned for the heat in his semi-finals match against Fish, last night he came back out to do a bit of scouting against his younger opponent. Let's see how mentally tough he will be against the flash and dazzle of Dolg.

Dolgopolov serving up 1st ATP 500 Final
Photo by Mikhail Bezruchko.  COPYRIGHT Tennis-Bargains.com

Alexandr "The Dog" Dolgopolov

At 24, he will be the young pup in this fight, but brings some amazing shot-making ability to the table. His serve can a double-edged sword. Either excellent and unreadable, or backfire and give him some trouble even when 40-0 up in his service game.

It will be Alex's first ever ATP 500 Final - but he has handled the pressure very well this week...up until today. Let's see if nerves hold or if this hot/humid DC afternoon will change anything with his game plan. Handling his emotions and playing aggressively on the return will again be keys to this match for him.

Interesting note: Apparently Alex uses the same Luxilon Ace 18 strings as me.

My prediction

Both are great competitors. I've seen Haas here for years and would be nice him to finally break through. He looks more hungry of the two. Dolg has the higher ranking and building more confidence with each win. If he brings his "A" game and step up to the next gear against Haas, it will be a great match!

It will either be Haas in 2 sets, or Dolgopolov in 3  - with at least one tie-break set. Should be a great ATP final in Washington, DC tonight.

From London back to DC - ATP Men's Final

Welcome back from London to our nation's capital DC at the Citi Open ATP 500 Men's Final.

Watch it on ESPN2 @ 4PM EST live!

Citi Open August 2, 2012 - Key Match-ups

Round of 16: Men's Preview and Predictions

Analyst and picks made by: ATP analyst Nikhil with results input by JC

Another great line-up scheduled for Thursday, August 2nd at the Citi Open. Plenty of good matches in store, so make sure you have your tickets in hand. I'm not much of a gambling man, but who can't throw a few darts at tennis picks? Here's a stab at the men's matches to watch.

Anderson v. Serra

Serra came through qualifying this week and caused a semi-upset when he ousted Brian Baker. Kevin Anderson was impressive in his Tuesday night win over Juergen Zopp. The 6' 7" South African has played college tennis at the University of Illinois, so the 4PM heat will be no surprise to him. Expect some close and hard fought baseline rallies, as Serra will try to his guile outmaneuver his biggest opponent. Anderson will have to serve well and throw in some forays to the net but this match will come down to Serra's ability to stay on serve.

Our Picks:

Nik - Anderson in two tough sets.
JC - Anderson in straights, if Serra doesn't come up with the goods on serve.
Let's see if Serra will serenade the audience again with his French explicatives by the 2nd set.

Querrey v. Becker

Sam was presumably a little jet-lagged from his Monday West Coast flight from L. A. as he battled Igor Andreev on Tuesday, well past midnight. Querrey stayed aggressive though to come through in the triple tie-break threat. Becker, has a big serve for 5' 10" and generally maximizes his court time and ability in every match. Watch this match to see Querrey absolutely hit the cover off the ball, consistently hit 130mph serves and see how the tie-breaks pan out.

Our Picks:

Nik - I fancy Querrey will take this one in two tie-break sets.
JC - Querrey will take this relatively easy with 6-3, 6-4 win.
Still on a hot winning streak on hard courts and I expect to see him add onto his US Open bonus points. I would say the warmer temps should favor the American.

Fish v. Berankis

Fish is battling a sore ankle and a recent heart issue(arrhythmia) so his confidence has been up and down, particularly his opening outing against Phau. I suspect Fish will be more zoned in for this match but Berankis is no pushover. Fish may not be able to just stay on the baseline in this one, he'll need to throw Berankis off balance by occasionally approaching the net.

Our Pick:
Nik - The first two sets will be close, but Fish gets through in three.
JC - Close one with at least one tie-break.
Fish said in his post-match conference that he's "100%" now, this is going to test that statement physically. Berankis won't go down easy.

Chardy v. Malisse

This is likely going to be the most interesting match of the day. In tennis, matches between closely matched opponents are usually a lot more interesting than a mismatch between the no. 10 player in the world versus number 100. In terms of rankings, the one pits 47 ranked Chardy (who fancies himself as a TV actor) against the X-Man, ranked 67. The match-up is as even as it gets. Malisse, always prone to a meltdown and some drama, wasn't too happy with the Grandstand court in his previous match against Mathieu - he complained (justifiably) about the windscreens, the crowds walking past behind him, wailing babies, speakers that were too close to the court, the lights and just about everything else.

The important thing is he still managed to win the match. Chardy, while less dramatic, can fade in and out as well. Look for the Frenchman to control the court with his big first serve and his inside out forehand. Chardy is an aggressive baseliner and he will have his task cut out. Malisse has a great backhand a workable forehand and generally can play an all court game.

Our Pick:

Nik - This one's a tight three setter, Chardy may just scrape through in a dramatic third.
JC - My heart says X-Man, but my head says Chardy.
I say the winner of the 1st set will take this one in 3.

What do you think, who's your pick? Feel free to add your own comments below!

Moya retires at ATP Finals

I met Moya at the US Open a few years back and got his autograph.

I realized it's not that fancy of a signature, but if you watched him sign the TV monitors, you can tell that's just his actual handwriting I guess =)

He was an inspiration and mentor for Nadal and most of the Spanish tennis players.  A great forehand and always a threat on the tennis court. Moya will be missed by the whole tennis world.

Anyone have any idea how much this card is worth now that Carlos Moya is now retired?

Agassi gear at French Open - LM Head Instinct and Nike BF2's

At the French Open, Agassi used the same racket and shoes that I use today.

Saw this replay on Tennis Channel...notice the classic rubber band dampener and also the diamond stud earring =)

Reading more of his autobiography "Open" really surprises how many similarities we share in common.

I think like a lot of people out there making a living and getting by day to day...we are not always lucky enough to be good at what we love - but rather at some point in "growing up" to fit into society, force ourselves to love what we are good at.


Later in his career, he also used the (Liquidmetal) Head Instinct and wore the Blue & Yellow Nike BF2's

US Open 2010: JC_SLK

JC_SLK
Originally uploaded by JCTennis.com

Got to go up to NYC over the weekend 8/28-8/30 and catch some first round action. Arthur Ashe day had Federer, Nadal, Djokovic and Murray all out in full force. It was the best weather I have seen in a long time. Sun and Mon were much hotter!

Finding good shade and healthy lunch choices are other skills I'll have to write an article about. Amex was also giving out $50 gift cards for $150 spent at the open. Getting the bag check service really helped me get around with just a plastic bag (Ralph Lauren had an awesome clear gift duffel sling bag).

Check out my other pictures at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/demiace