World Tennis Magazine

Unique Tennis Perspectives

queens club

Ivo Karlovic On Ace Record: “The Record Will Always Be There.” Milos Raonic: “Hold My Beer”

by

By Randy Walker

@TennisPublisher

Milos Raonic set the record for most aces hit in a best-of-three-set ATP Tour match when he slammed 47 in his 6-7(6), 6-3, 7-6(9) win against Cam Norried in the first round of the Wimbledon grass-court prep tournament, the Cinch Championships at Queens Club in London.

The Canadian broke the record previously held by Ivo Karlovic, who hit 45 aces in the quarterfinals of the grass-court event in Halle, Germany in 2015, nearly nine years to the day of Raonic’s achievement.

As documented in my book “On This Day In Tennis History,” Karlovic believed that his record would stand the test of time, exclaiming to media after his win ”The record will always be there, it will always be written.”

Well, not so fast.

The Karlovic record was actually threatened several other times before Raonic eclipsed the record. Nick Kyrgios hits 44 aces passed Ryan Harrison in 2019 on a hard court in Brisbane and John Isner hit 44 against Yibing Wu in Dallas in 2023. Isner also hit 43 aces against Gilles Muller at Queens in 2016 and Reilly Opelka hit 43 aces each at the indoor event on Long Island, New York in 2019 against Isner and also Brayden Schnur.

Said Raonic of his aces after his historic win over Norrie,  “With the scoreline and having to save (two) match points, I probably needed every single one of those. But my serve has always been the most important shot to me. This small record, it’s something special, something meaningful. I’m glad that behind that also stands a win because maybe I’d feel differently or maybe a bit more sour if I was to get that many free points and lose the match. So overall, a very positive thing and a fun stat to be proud of.”

The excerpt from the June 19 chapter of “On This Day In Tennis History” (for sale and download here: https://a.co/d/cLnCyH2) on Karlovic’s record can be read below.

2015 – Ivo Karlovic slams 45 aces, the most in a three-set match in the history of the ATP World Tour, in defeating Tomas Berdych 7-5, 6-7 (8), 6-3 in the quarterfinals of the Gerry Weber Open in Halle, Germany. Karlovic breaks the best-of-three-set record he shares with Mark Philippoussis of 44 aces. “I just knew there was a lot of aces, but I didn’t know it was that many,” Karlovic says of the record. ”The record will always be there, it will always be written.” The all-time record for most aces hit in a best-of-five set match is held by John Isner, who hit 113 aces in his 11 hour, five minute epic 70-68 in the fifth set win over Nicolas Mahut at Wimbledon in 2010.

John McEnroe To Fans: “Go Jump In A Lake”

by

John McEnroe’s most famous tennis tantrum was probably his “You Cannot Be Serious” tirade at Wimbledon in 1981, but just before that at the Queens Club grass-court prep tournament he also had a pretty good one. The following describes the McEnroe meltdown from the June 15 chapter of the book “On This Day In Tennis History” by Randy Walker (for sale and download here: https://a.co/d/3gflMTh

1981 – Telling fans to “go jump in a lake” and “shut up you jerks,” John McEnroe wins the singles title at Queens Club for a third straight year, defeating Brian Gottfried 7-6, 7-5 in the final. McEnroe is given an unsportsmanlike conduct warning at the tail end of the match by chair umpire Georgina Clark, whom McEnroe verbally challenges throughout the match. In the post-match press conference, McEnroe suggests it is more difficult for him to play a match with a female chair umpire as “it is harder to get upset with a woman umpire.” Says Gottfried of McEnroe’s assertion, “An umpire is an umpire, regardless of sex, but Mac may have a problem with women because his language is sometimes a little different.”

On This Day In Tennis History ($19.95, 528 pages), is a fun and fact-filled, this compilation offers anniversaries, summaries, and anecdotes of events from the world of tennis for every day in the calendar year. Presented in a day-by-day format, the entries into this mini-encyclopedia include major tournament victory dates, summaries of the greatest matches ever played, trivia, and statistics as well as little-known and quirky happenings. Easy-to-use and packed with fascinating details, the book is the perfect companion for tennis and general sports fans alike. The book features fascinating and unique stories of players such as John McEnroe, Don Budge, Maria Sharapova, Bill Tilden, Chris Evert, Billie Jean King, Jimmy Connors, Martina Navratilova, Venus Williams, Serena Williams, Anna Kournikova among many others. On This Day In Tennis History is available for purchase via on-line book retailers and in bookstores in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand.

Said Hall of Famer Jim Courier of the book, “On This Day In Tennis History is a fun read that chronicles some of the most important—and unusual—moments in the annals of tennis. Randy Walker is an excellent narrator of tennis history and has done an incredible job of researching and compiling this entertaining volume.” Said tennis historian Joel Drucker, author of Jimmy Connors Saved My Life, “An addictive feast that you can enjoy every possible way—dipping in for various morsels, devouring it day-by-day, or selectively finding essential ingredients. As a tennis writer, I will always keep this book at the head of my table.”

50-Year Anniversary of First Fed Cup Final

by

It was 50 years ago on June 20, 1963 that the Fed Cup was awarded for the first time.

As seen in the new THIS DAY IN TENNIS mobile app (www.TennisHistoryApp.com), the United States won the inaugural staging of the international team competition for women– then dubbed by its longer name, the Federation Cup, by claiming a 2-1 win over Australia at Queen’s Club in London. The Federation Cup, the women’s equivalent of the Davis Cup that started 1900,  was founded as a part of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the International Tennis Federation. Billie Jean King, then known by her maiden name Billie Jean Moffitt, paired with Darlene Hard clinch the title for the United States in the decisive doubles match in the best-of-three match series, defeating Margaret Court, then known by her maiden name Margaret Smith and Lesley Turner 3-6, 13-11, 6-3.

Hall of Fame tennis journalist and personality Bud Collins discusses the Fed Cup – and its curious naming – in his volume THE BUD COLLINS HISTORY OF TENNIS, available here: http://www.amazon.com/dp/0942257707?tag=tennisgrancom-20&camp=14573&creative=327641&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=0942257707&adid=1Q446RE4XRBX0SYN215X&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.tennisgrandstand.com%2F Bud’s summary and take on the “Fed Cup” from the book is excerpted below.

 

It was a splendid idea with a lame name—twice. That’s the Federation/Fed Cup, the world team competition for women—a la the Davis Cup that has been running in a variety of formats since 1963. It was best-of-three matches until 1996, then best-of-five (like Davis Cup, except curiously playing the doubles last, usually meaningless). The International Tennis Federation, the proprietor, named the Cup unimaginatively for itself. Plenty of excellent names such as Suzanne Lenglen, Helen Wills, Alice Marble were available. In 1995, a name change was advised, and—eek!—it was shortened to Fed. Wonder how much that consultation cost. King or Court Cup (for Billie Jean King or Margaret Court), stars of the event, would have been just fine.

The idea for a female team competition, complementing the Davis Cup, sprang from “Lady Tennis,” American Hazel Hotchkiss Wightman, an all-time champion, who provided a Cup. But in the 1920s, there wasn’t enough broad interest. Thus the Wightman Cup became a prize for a U.S.-Great Britain rivalry, launched in 1923 at Forest Hills and lasting through 1989 when the Brits ran out of talent.

Australian Nell Hopman (wife of her country’s Davis Cup captain, Harry Hopman) and Englishwoman Mary Hardwick Hare, a former Wightman player, successfully lobbied the ITF on behalf of the widening women’s game for a world-wide team tournament, realized in the Fed Cup. Sixteen countries entered at the 1963 start, the U.S. defeating Australia, 2-1 at Queen’s Club, London, the final indoors because of rain.

Court, leading Australia to four Cups, had a 20-0 singles record. King played for six Cup winners, posting a 26-3 singles record; 26-1 in doubles. Arantxa Sanchez Vicario and Conchita Martinez carried Spain to 10 finals, winning five Cups. Arantxa tops the chart, playing 100 matches: 50-22 singles, 22-6 doubles. Conchita was right behind her, 47-18 and 21-5—and they were 18-3 together in doubles. Martina Navratilova is the only Cup winner for two different countries: Czechoslovakia in 1975 (prior to her defection that year), and the U.S. in 1982, 86, 89, and was perfect, 20-0 singles, 16-0 doubles. What about her name on the Cup?

 

Fed Cup
Fed Cup

The Worst Player To Ever Beat Pete Sampras

by

By Randy Walker

@TennisPublisher

 

Who was the worst pro player to ever beat Pete Sampras?

If you have the new “This Day In Tennis History” mobile app, you would know and would be alerted on June 12 with the following entry:

1991 – Mark Keil, ranked No. 224 playing in only his second career ATP tour event, stages a staggering upset of future seven-times Wimbledon champion Pete Sampras 6-2, 7-6 (2) in the second round of the Stella Artois Championships at Queen’s Club in London. Following his win over the No. 8 ranked player in the world and entering the post-match press conference, he asks reporters, “Is this where I am supposed to sit. I have never done this before.” Asked what his previous claim to fame had been prior to beating Sampras, Keil responded, “Nothing.”

“Mark produced an amazing upset,” says Geoff Grant in the opening scene of the cult-classic tennis documentary “The Journeymen” – in the process of a crowd-sourcing capital raise to make the move available in a digital format (for more  info here: http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/the-journeymen-tennis-movie-move-to-digital-project/x/3092071 ) The documentary, featuring Grant and Keil, states that Keil is the lowest-ranked player to beat Sampras when Sampras was ranked in the top 10. To boot, Keil produced the upset on a grass court, the surface where Sampras was virtually unbeatable for most of his career.

“Sampras appeared lethargic against Keil’s physical brand of tennis,” wrote the New York Times of the upset at Queens Club. “Keil was able to handle the windy conditions better, and he broke serve in the third and fifth games of the first set before Sampras even got into the match. The second set stayed on serve, forcing the tie breaker.”

“I never heard of him and I’d never seen him play,” Sampras said to reporters following the match. “It’s tough to play someone when you don’t know who they are.”

“My previous claim to fame — nothing,” said  Keil, 24 following the match. “I’ve won a challenger event in Indonesia and been to all ends of the earth to move up in tennis.”

While Sampras went on to win seven Wimbledon titles on grass courts in his Hall of Fame career, Keil only reached a career high singles ranking of No. 167. He lost his next match to Mal Washington at Queen’s and only won two more ATP World Tour singles matches in his career. The end of his career as a journeyman doubles specialist is featured in the “Journeymen” documentary.

The “This Day In Tennis” mobile app can be found by searching “Tennis History” in the iTunes App Store and Play Store or directly at these two links:

Apple iTunes: http://m1e.net/c?96279190-QVNZbhE7otwIQ%4018743020-36wDaWUl4hHss

Google Play: http://m1e.net/c?96279190-vbTXOvDe.eVzA%4018743021-/sLwXB3bzqDE6

 

Mark Keil
Mark Keil

Christina McHale Teams Up With Buddy Fruits: This Week in Tennis Business with Justin Cohen

by

McHale signs partnership agreement with Buddy Fruits

World No. 32 and New Jersey native Christina McHale has signed a partnership deal with Buddy Fruits, the leader in the market of all natural fruit snacks. Financial terms of the agreements have not been disclosed. “I have to be picky about what I put in my body as my tennis performance can depend on it,” said McHale. “I always keep Buddy Fruits products with me. They help to provide an energy boost for my hectic schedule. With Buddy Fruits, I can feel good about what I am eating and even better, I can throw it into my gym bag to enjoy as an on the court snack or even pre- and post-workout.” Buddy Fruits various flavors include mango, passion fruit, multi fruit, banana, strawberry and apple cinnamon. Each product features no artificial flavorings or colors, no genetic modifications and are also gluten-free. “We are very excited to have the opportunity to partner with Christina,” said Fabian Milon, Co-Founder of Buddy Fruits. “As a world-ranked athlete, she must take her health seriously, and we are pleased that she has chosen Buddy Fruits to assist in reaching her fitness goals. Christina’s achievements serve as a role model for health and what you can achieve when your body is given the proper nutrition. We share a passion for delicious, convenient and wholesome choices.”

Carillo earns contract extension with Tennis Channel

Tennis Channel has extended the contract of tennis broadcasting legend Mary Carillo and will now add Wimbledon and select domestic tournaments to her schedule, starting at this week’s Sony Ericsson Open in Miami. Bringing 32-years of broadcasting experience to the table, Carillo joined Tennis Channel in 2011 during its coverage of the French Open and US Open. “We had a great time in Paris and New York last year, and I’m excited to keep working with Tennis Channel,” said Carillo. “I’m looking forward to joining the team in Miami and London.” During her playing career on the WTA Tour, Carillo reached a personal best singles ranking of No. 33 in the world in 1980, while teaming with Hall of Famer and fellow New Yorker John McEnroe to capture the 1977 French Open Mixed Doubles title.

USTA and TGA Premier Youth Tennis form partnership to bring more kids to the sport

According to a press release, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) announced on Tuesday it has teamed with the newly launched TGA Premier Youth Tennis (TGA), an innovative, youth sports franchise firm, to help introduce tennis to kindergarten through 8th grade youth throughout the country. The partnership supports USTA’s 10 and Under Tennis youth initiative, which is geared towards getting more kids to participate in tennis using modified equipment and courts tailored to a child’s size. The organizations have developed a model that impacts the landscape of the tennis industry and its future growth prospects. The USTA has been implementing programs to attract youngsters to tennis, and recognized the success that TGA has had with its golf business. Currently, thousands of schools nationwide participate in TGA’s after-school enrichment programs.  Using its current business philosophy of enriching kids’ lives through physical fitness, health and nutrition, education, and character building, along with its scalable business model, the USTA and TGA have worked together to develop curriculums for K – 3rd grade and 4th – 8th grade. “The partnership is a great fit and will build a pathway for elementary and middle school kids to enjoy tennis through after school programs,” said Kurt Kamperman, USTA Chief Executive, Community Tennis. “TGA’s enrichment curriculum along with USTA’s tennis program will bring many kids to the court while enabling them to improve life skills and character development.” TGA began forming its alliance with the USTA in December 2011, and is expected to become a pipeline for the game by introducing tennis to boys and girls enrolled in elementary and middle schools, child care centers and community-based organizations throughout the U.S. Children who participate in the programs will have the opportunity to transition from at-school programs to junior camps, clinics, and USTA programs at facilities nationwide. In addition to exposing kids to a life-long, character-building sport, the full service franchise company will create jobs and business ownership opportunities within the industry. This month the company will begin awarding TGA tennis franchises to the public, which is expected to attract tennis professionals as well as business professionals within the 17 USTA sections around the country. Self-starters who are passionate about tennis and have an interest in youth sports can embrace a business opportunity while benefiting their communities.

AEGON Championships shortlisted at Sports Industry Awards

The AEGON Championships at Queen’s Club has been shortlisted for “Best Sponsorship Of An Event Or Competition” at the prestigious Sports Industry Awards. The tournament is up against five other events from the worlds of football, rugby union, cricket and adventure racing. “To be nominated alongside world-class events from other sports is very satisfying and a great credit to AEGON and everyone involved in the tournament,” said Chris Kermode, Tournament Director. The awards will be announced in early May at a star-studded ceremony in London. “Being named on the Official Shortlist for the Sport Industry Awards is definitive proof that a team, brand or organization’s work has been amongst the very best in its field across an entire year,” said Nick Keller, the Chairman of the Sports Industry Group.

del Potro commits to AEGON Championships at Queen’s Club in London

Former US Open champion Juan Martin del Potro announced he will take part in the 2012 AEGON Championships, which will be played at the historic Queen’s Club in London from June 11-17. “I like the surface, I’m not a grass-court specialist, but I’m improving,” said Del Potro. “The AEGON Championships at Queen’s is an amazing tournament, very nice to come to, to play, to train and I will be there for sure trying to win my first title on grass. I think that if I play my best tennis I have a chance to win a Grand Slam on grass but it will be very difficult.” The No. 9 ranked player in the world joins Andy Murray and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga as other Top 10 players already committed to the field.

Founding Editor of New York Times Straight Sets blog publishes e-book

Ray Krueger, the founding editor of the New York Times Straight Sets blog and current managing editor of the New York Times News Service, has written and published an e-book, 45-Love: My Yearlong Quest to Fulfill a Lifelong Dream in the Sport of Tennis. 45-Love tells the story of Ray’s quest to be an accomplished player in the USTA’s 45 and Over division. The book is available for readers who have Kindle, iPad or similar e-reader, through Diversion Books.

The “Heavyweight Championship of Tennis” to be held in Cincinnati from April 13-14

The annual Clydesdale Open & Pro Am Tennis Charity Classic sponsored by Beacon Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, which is dubbed the ‘Heavyweight Championship of Tennis’ since qualified doubles teams must tip-the-scales at minimum combined weight of 425 pounds, returns to The Club at Harper’s Point in Cincinnati, Ohio, from April 13-14. Founded by Cincinnati resident Ken “The Commish” Munson in 1992 and featured on Tennis Channel in 2005 during a one-hour special, the Clydesdale Open has already generated nearly $500,000 for local charities. Proceeds from this year’s tournament will benefit the Andy Caress Melanoma Foundation. The Andy Caress Melanoma Foundation was formed shortly after the former college tennis player lost his battle with the deadly disease. Additionally, a secondary benefactor is the Blue Cure, a Prostate Cancer Awareness Foundation. Munson was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer in 2005 and just celebrated his sixth year of being cancer free. The fun-filled weekend will kick-off at Cincinnati’s most popular racquet club with a tennis Pro Am Round Robin tournament. Sixteen of Greater Cincinnati’s most celebrated tennis teaching professionals will team with amateur players to compete for prizes and bragging rights. Participants in the Pro Am event will be divided into two divisions based on playing ability and your weight will not be a factor. For just $250, you can participate in this outstanding event. For just a generous $30 donation on Saturday, April 14 from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. you can take part in the adidas Tennis Boot Camp Clinic. All participants will have the opportunity to play with local pros, while competing for prizes and enjoying refreshments. Following the afternoon fun, the highly-anticipated Clydesdale Open will start at 5:30 p.m. with the fan-favorite weigh-in. Once again, doubles teams will be divided into two divisions, 3.5/4.0 and 4.5/5.0 (USTA Rating). Winners and finalists will receive trophies, while players and fans can enjoy dozens of great raffle prizes, free food and refreshments, and live entertainment throughout the night. Presenting sponsors for this year’s event include adidas, Babolat, Midwest Sports, Queen City Fitness and Racquet Club and The Club at Harper’s Point. For more information or to sign up for any of the events, please call Katie at (513) 489-9700.

Volley in the Valley Tennis Tournament to be held May 6-7

The St. Helena Hospital Volley in the Valley Tennis Tournament will be held Sunday, May 6 and Monday, May 7 at Meadowood Napa Valley. Proceeds from the tournament will benefit the St. Helena’s Heart Institute. This year’s tournament format will feature four doubles Round Robin Tournaments – one men’s, one women’s and two mixed doubles. The tournament is open to all amateur players. Your $1,000 entry fee includes two days of tennis play and an elegant dinner event featuring celebrity speakers Brad Gilbert and John York, MD. The dinner will take place at the prominent Napa Valley Reserve on Sunday evening, May 6. Dinner only tickets cost just $500 each. For questions or more information, please contact Danielle at the St. Helena Hospital Foundation at (707) 963-6208.

Kei Nishikori Signs Brand Ambassador Deal with TAG Heuer: This Week in Tennis Business with Justin Cohen

by

Kei Nishikori

Nishikori signs brand ambassador deal with TAG Heuer

World No. 18 and rising Japanese star Kei Nishikori has signed a brand ambassador deal with TAG Heuer, the prestigious Swiss watch brand established in 1860. The former Junior French Open Doubles champion announced his decision to become a part of the TAG Heuer family during a press conference in Tokyo on Tuesday. Nishikori joins Maria Sharapova, Leonardo DiCaprio and Leonard Hamilton as ambassadors to the organization. Other current sponsors of Nishikori are Wilson, adidas (shoes only), CupNoodle, Weider, UniQlo, WOWOW and EA Sports. Nishikori began his 2012 season by reaching the Australian Open quarterfinals, the furthest round a Japanese male player has ever reached in a Grand Slam event since 1968.

World TeamTennis Marquee Player Draft includes six current or former world No. 1s from U.S.

During Tuesday’s World TeamTennis Marquee Player Draft, six current or former world No. 1s from the United States were selected including Serena Williams, Venus Williams, Bob and Mike Bryan, Lindsay Davenport and John McEnroe. Other household names selected in the draft included Mardy Fish, Martina Hingis, James Blake, Mark Philippoussis and John Isner. Following the birth of her third child in January, Davenport will return to the court and play for the Orange County Breakers. “I am excited to be back in Orange County and it will be great for my kids to get to see me play,” said Davenport. “I have always loved playing on a team so I am looking forward to getting back on the court.” The Washington Kastles will try to complete another undefeated championship season like last year with the help of both Williams’ sisters. The Philadelphia Freedoms selected American fan-favorite Blake and former world No. 8 Philippoussis. This summer marks Blake’s seventh WTT season and first with the Freedoms. The Boston Lobsters are bringing back one of the best players in the world in Isner, who just defeated 16-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer in four sets in Davis Cup last weekend in Switzerland. McEnroe and Hingis will once again join forces as part of the New York Sportimes. The Sacramento Capitals will build their team around Fish. The WTT Pro League presented by GEICO, which was co-founded by Billie Jean King, is a professional sports league featuring three generations of tennis stars playing in a coed team format.  The 2012 WTT Pro League begins July 9 and runs through July 29. The top two teams from both the Western and Eastern Conference advance to the WTT Finals Weekend presented by GEICO from September 14-16, at the Family Circle Tennis Center in Charleston, S.C.

Jim Curley steps down as US Open Tournament Director

After more than 10 years on the job, the USTA announced that Jim Curley is stepping down as the Chief Professional Tournaments Officer and US Open Tournament Director. Deputy Tournament Director David Brewer, a 14-year USTA employee, will take over as the new US Open Tournament Director and also oversee the USTA’s professional tennis operations. “It has been a privilege to lead the USTA’s efforts in professional tennis,” said Curley. “My decision to step down after more than 10 years was a difficult one, but I believe it is time for a change.” Brewer, currently the Managing Director, Professional Operations, joined the USTA in 1997. In addition to his US Open Tournament Director obligations, his responsibilities will include oversight of the US Open Series, all US Team events including Davis Cup, Fed Cup and the Olympics, USTA Pro Circuit competition and all aspects of the USTA’s professional tennis division. Brewer will report to Gordon Smith, USTA COO and Executive Director. “Jim is an exemplary professional who has helped to elevate the US Open during his decade-long stewardship of the event,” said Jon Vegosen, USTA Chairman of the Board and President. “We are disappointed in his decision to step down, but are confident that David will continue to build on Jim’s legacy of growth and innovation.”

USTA Player Development names five additional programs as USTA Certified Regional Training Centers

According to a press release, the United States Tennis Association announced that five junior development programs in four states have been named USTA Certified Regional Training Centers as part of its continuing effort to develop the next generation of world-class American players. The five programs will service the junior players in four USTA sections across the country. The five new USTA Certified Regional Training Centers include The Barnes Tennis Center in San Diego and the Northwest High Performance Tennis program in Seattle. These programs are the first Certified Regional Training Centers named in the USTA Southern California and USTA Pacific Northwest sections, respectively. The 4 Star Tennis Academy in Fairfax, Va., will join the Junior Tennis Champions Center in College Park, Md. The Rochester Athletic Club in Rochester, Minn., and the Life Time Fitness Center in Lakeville, a suburb of Minneapolis/St. Paul will comprise a USTA Certified Regional Training Center network for the USTA Northern section. In addition to continuing their existing programs, the USTA Certified Regional Training Centers will host USTA Player Development camps for players, ages 8-12, in their respective regions.  These players will be selected in conjunction with the USTA national coaching staff and their respective USTA Section Coaching Commission.  The Centers will also help identify talent in players as young as 6 years old, run programs using the 10 and Under Tennis* and host 10 and Under Tennis tournaments for players 8 and under and 10 and under. “Now in its fourth year, the Certified Regional Training Center initiative continues to expand and flourish as we at USTA Player Development work collaboratively with more programs and coaches,” said Patrick McEnroe, General Manager, USTA Player Development.  “We are happy that we are continuing to see positive results from some of the young players who train at these USTA Certified Regional Training Centers, and these new programs will help us continue to expand our outreach as we continue to try and develop the next wave of world-class American players.”

International Tennis Federation and Wilson renew deal for five-years

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) renewed its Davis Cup and Fed Cup sponsorship deal with Wilson Racquet Sports for five-years through 2017. Under the new arrangement, Wilson will remain as the official tennis ball of Davis Cup and Fed Cup, starting in 2013. Wilson will also maintain its investment in grassroots level tennis as the official ball of the ITF’s under 14 and under 16 level competitions. “Wilson remains an outstanding partner for the ITF, helping in our efforts to develop and promote the game. In particular the company has been a long and loyal sponsor of our premier team competitions, and we are delighted to have its continued support for many years to come,” said Francesco Ricci Bitti, ITF President. “The Davis Cup and Fed Cup are iconic tennis institutions, important to the heritage of the sport and to our brand,” said Jon Muir, General Manager for Wilson Racquet Sports. “These events help to drive the local participation efforts in many countries around the world, and our brand and business efforts have aligned to support this as well. We are pleased to continue this strong partnership and look forward to bringing the energy of the game to all generations of tennis fans.”

112th Ojai Valley Tennis Tournament to be promoted by top Sports PR/Marketing firm

Top sports public relations and marketing firm Brener Zwikel & Associates will play a major role in the largest amateur tennis tournament in the United States. The California-based firm, which also has an office in New York City, will be in charge of promoting the 112th Ojai Valley Tennis Tournament, April 25-29. The Ojai, a Southern California tennis tradition since 1896, is the oldest amateur tournament played at the same location in the United States. “We are very pleased to have the assistance and public relations expertise of Brener Zwikel & Associates working with The Ojai and our 112th-annual event this April,” said Ojai Valley Tennis Club President Vivian Perrett. “We look forward to working with BZA to gain heightened awareness about The Ojai throughout the tennis world via print, electronic and social interactive media, and promotions. With 27 different events and more than 1,500 players, we have a great deal of tennis to offer at more than 30 sites throughout Ventura County, including private Ojai courts.” New this year will be the Pac-12 Championships being played in a team format, which is different from the original 32-player individual draw. All matches in 2012 will take place in downtown Ojai at the Libbey Park courts. Also new at this year’s event will be the prize money boost. An all-time high of $20,000 will be awarded to the men’s and women’s Open divisions in singles, doubles and mixed doubles. Additionally, The Ojai will have a major social media presence, having launched official Facebook and Twitter pages. Fans can follow the action from all 27 divisions by visiting the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/theojaitennistournament or following @TheOjai on Twitter. A long list of legendary players have competed in The Ojai in the past including Bill Tilden, Tony Trabert, Bobby Riggs, Jack Kramer, Maureen Connolly, Arthur Ashe, Billie Jean King, Pancho Gonzales, Stan Smith, Jimmy Connors, Michael Chang,  Lindsay Davenport, Pete Sampras, Taylor Dent and the Bryan Brothers. A total of 85 players who have competed in the prestigious Ventura County tournament have gone on to win a Grand Slam tournament.

Murray returning to The Queen’s Club in June to defend title

World No. 4 and defending champion Andy Murray announced that he will return this summer to the AEGON Championships at The Queen’s Club in search of a third title on the famed grass courts in London. This year’s tournament will be played from June 11-17. “I’m excited to be going back to The Queen’s Club,” said Murray. “It’s a great tournament and the grass courts are as good as anywhere in the world, so it’s the perfect preparation for Wimbledon. There’s always a great atmosphere and having won the trophy twice previously, I have nothing but good memories. They also have one of the biggest trophies on the tennis circuit, and most of the Wimbledon champions are on it, so you know it’s a big deal. I’d love to win it again this year.” The last British player to win three titles at The Queen’s Club was FG Lowe, who won his third and final singles title in 1925.

Isner, Fish, Bryan Brothers commit to US Men’s Clay Court Championships in Houston

Tournament officials at the US Men’s Clay Court Championships in Houston announced that Americans John Isner, Mardy Fish and Bob and Mike Bryan will compete in the event to be held from April 9-15 at the River Oaks Country Club. Isner is currently ranked at a career high No. 14. The former University of Georgia four-time All-American reached the doubles final in Houston last year with fellow American Sam Querrey. Fish, who is currently ranked No. 8, won the singles title at River Oaks in 2006. The Bryan Brothers will return to Texas aiming for a fifth doubles crown.

Venus Williams enters Family Circle Cup

Former world No. 1 Venus Williams has entered the Family Circle Cup in Charleston, which will be played from March 31-April 8. The 31-year-old Williams was diagnosed last year with Sjogren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disease. The South Florida resident recently teamed with Liezel Huber in the United States Fed Cup dead-rubber doubles victory against Belarus.

New book “TITANIC: THE TENNIS STORY” tells incredible story of survival and triumph

Karl Behr was one of the best tennis players in the United States – a member of the 1907 U.S. Davis Cup team and a Wimbledon doubles finalist that year. In 1912, he was madly in love with Helen Newsom. However, Newsom’s mother, Sally Beckwith, did not approve of their relationship and whisked her daughter away on a European adventure in an attempt to break up the couple. Behr concocted a European business trip to chase after the love of his life. Both had return trips to America on the famed and fated ship TITANIC. The love story of Behr and Newsom, as well as the incredible story of survival and triumph of another TITANIC survivor and future U.S. singles champion Dick Williams, are featured in the new book TITANIC: THE TENNIS STORY by Lindsay Gibbs ($12.95, New Chapter Press, available for order on Amazon.com here: http://m1e.net/c?96018505-IQGyTFTob4NIw%407231931-7LMaJhRrgzL1I TITANIC: THE TENNIS STORY, due out officially in six weeks, narrates the extraordinary stories of tennis players Behr and Williams, who survived the sinking of the famous ship 100 years ago this coming April 15 and met on the deck of the rescue ship Carpathia. Behr and Williams eventually became teammates on the U.S. Davis Cup team and faced each other in the quarterfinals of the 1914 U.S. Nationals in Newport, R.I. – the tournament that is now the US Open.

AT HIS HEIGHT, NADAL RETURNS TO THE GRASS

by

By Charles Bricker

In a vacuum this was as seamless a transition as one could reasonably expect from Rafael Nadal, who glided easily this afternoon from his recent fifth French Open championship to his first grass court match in two years.

But of course we don’t play this game in a vacuum, so as smooth as this 6-2, 6-2, 53-minute pasting appeared, it needs to be tempered with at least one salient fact — namely, that his opponent was some Brazillian nobody named Marcos Daniel, ranked No. 114.

Nevertheless, when you strip away the statistcs for this win, and they were mighty impressive, and look at the play itself, there was a lot to like here.

It took Nadal all of one point to let everyone know he had his grass legs under him, as he smacked a running cross-court forehand passing shot for a winner about 30 seconds into this match.

He then closed out a break for 2-0 by slapping back Daniel’s second serve — the ball returning faster than when it arrived.

It was — surprise! — a moist day at Queens Club in London and the players had a brief exit with Nadal leading 2-1 in the second set. When they got back on court, nothing had changed. Nadal was ready and inspired, and the emphasis has to be on “inspired.”

Not that anyone should have had much doubt about Nadal’s motivation after the emotionally draining triumph in Paris, but it was something of a question. That victory over Robin Soderling in the Roland Garros final was a source of great relief after the year and a half Rafa had been through.

His career since turning pro at age 16 had been nothing but upward mobility. The early titles. The early wins over Roger Federer. The improvement of his serve, upon which he had never relied because of his prodigious ground strokes. And then the consecutive titles at the French and the whipping of Federer at the 2008 Wimbledon final.

At that point, barely 22, the world was at Nadal’s feet. . .until the knee injuries and the divorce of his parents sent him reeling emotionally. To lose to Soderling, even with a gimpy knee, at the 2009 French, was a crushing setback for him, but he learned from it. He learned to deal with his fitness. He learned he cannot play week after week after week. He learned how to practice more economically. He started listening to his body and the result was the victory last Sunday in Paris.

He spoke with great eloquence after that match about what it had meant to him to come back after the trauma of injury and the breakup of his family, and it left you wondering, perhaps not deeply but to some extent, how much emotion would be left when he arrived in England.

Today’s triumph over Daniel speaks to that issue, though perhaps not enough. I still want to see him sustain this level, and he should through the third round on Thursday against No. 16 seed Dennis Istomin.

He looked sharp. He looked swift. He looked motivated. But, again, this was Marcos Daniel.

It could not have been lost on any tennis afficionado that this was Nadal’s first grass match since his win over Federer two years ago in that five-set drama at the All England Club, and it’s never easy making a fast transition from the slowest surface to the fastest. But he looked entirely comfortable. There were no slips on the damp court. Pete Sampras never looked more on balance on grass.

There were 35 minutes gone when the players left the court for the rain delay and, at that point, Nadal had served 35 points and, of the 24 service points he won, 14 were unreturned serves — a very good sign.

It was Rafa’s first match, also, since regaining the No. 1 ranking. He and Federer have no prospect of facing each other again until the Wimbledon final — if Federer gets there, and I think, at this point, there’se a greater chance that Federer, not Nadal, will fail before Wimbledon’s final Sunday. One player has reached the pinnacle, the other is in a very slow decline.

It’s not just that Nadal has returned to No. 1. It’s that he’s going to be entrenched there for some time. The knees are fine. The emotions are under control. He is, certainly, the best player in tennis right now and for the foreseeable future.

Charles Bricker can be reached at nflwriterr@aol.com

QUEEN’S CLUB HAS STRONGEST FIELD EVER: THIS WEEK IN TENNIS BUSINESS

by

By Leigh Sanders

* The lineup for this year’s AEGON Championships at Queen’s Club has been announced and it looks to be the strongest field in the history of the tournament.

If Andy Murray is to become the first British player since F.G. Lowe in 1914 to defend the crown then he will have to overcome seven of the world’s top 10 players including Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal and 2009 US Open Champion Juan Martin del Potro.

The warm-up for Wimbledon is popular among fans and players alike and top British star Murray is looking forward to defending his title: “I know it won’t be easy because they are going to have a strong field this year at Queen’s,” he said. “It’s a great time of the year though and I’m really looking forward to it.”

Murray became the first Briton since Henry ‘Bunny’ Austin in 1938 to lift the trophy last year without dropping a set, overcoming James Blake in the final. He then went on to lose to Andy Roddick in the semifinals at Wimbledon and Roddick also spoke with affection for the tournament: “Over the years I’ve had a lot of success at The Queen’s Club and I still say it’s the best grass court in the world,” said the top American player.

British fans will be hoping that with a welcome return to form another Murray may progress once more at Wimbledon and finally banish the ghost of Fred Perry once and for all. What better way to prepare than with another victory at Queens Club?

* The announcement of Rafael Nadal’s participation at Queens comes just days after his uncle Toni told Reuters that his nephew will reduce his playing schedule in future after missing Barcelona recently. “The important thing for Rafa is not the ranking,” he said, “but to be in good shape for every tournament he takes part in, to know that he has the chance to win the tournaments he takes part in.”

Andy Murray
Andy Murray

* Montpellier, one of the fastest-growing cities in France over the past 25 years, will host an ATP World Tour 250 tennis tournament for the first time in late October of this year. The indoor hard court event, which has relocated from Lyon, will be played in a new multi-purpose venue called the ARENA, which has a total capacity of 14,000 and seating for 7,500 during the tournament. The stadium will be completed by September, ahead of the tournament, which will be staged 25 October to 31 October. Just 10 kilometres from the Mediterranean coast in the country’s south, Montpellier is the eighth-biggest city in France with a metropolitan population of more than 500,000. ATP CEO, Europe, Laurent Delanney, said: “The ATP World Tour showcases the world’s best players in the most beautiful cities and venues around the world. We are delighted that one of our tournaments now will be played in the magnificent ARENA stadium in Montpellier. We also would like to thank the city of Lyon for its role in hosting this important event on the indoor circuit since 1987.” Patrice Dominguez, former French No. 1 and National Technical Director at the French Tennis Federation, who has directed tournaments in Monte-Carlo, Toulouse and Metz, will be the Tournament Director in Montpellier.

* Tennis Channel and racquet producers Babolat have joined together for a multi-episode advertising campaign to begin this spring. It consists of a series of “One-Minute Clinics” giving instruction to fans on strokes and technique. Each features one of the Babolat-endorsed players (including Andy Roddick, Kim Clijsters, Dinara Safina and others) and commentary and instruction will be given by Babolat-endorsed commentators and analysts including former Grand Slam mixed doubles winner Justin Gimelstob. Randy Master, vice president of advertising sales at Tennis Channel, said: “[we are] excited to work with Babolat this year to build a new series of instructional content that our viewers and web visitors will find very informative. Even if you’re not someone with a weekly tennis match on your schedule, as a fan of the sport you can’t help but be interested in the hows and whys of what makes someone successful at this game.”

* Former British tennis player Robert Dee, 23, has lost a libel case against The Daily Telegraph newspaper who once labeled him “the world’s worst” tennis pro, reports the BBC. He claimed the April 2008 article, titled “World’s worst tennis pro wins at last” could damage any future earnings as a coach. The comments about the player, who at the time had lost a world-record-equaling 54 matches in a row before the win, were deemed fair comment.

* Belgium’s Kim Clijsters ruptured a muscle in her left foot in last week’s Fed Cup win over Estonia which could keep her out for up to six weeks – including missing the French Open. Juan Martin del Potro and Fernado Gonzalez are also sweating on making the Slam after failing to get fit in time for Madrid.

* Serena Williams has become only the sixth player to hold the WTA world No. 1 slot for 100 weeks. She joins Steffi Graff (377 weeks), Martina Navratilova (322), Chris Evert (260), Martina Hingis (209), Monica Seles (178) and the returning Justine Henin (117). She has also been named in TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential list for 2010 in the heroes section with an endorsing entry provided by Billie Jean King.

* World No. 50 Igor Andreev’s first round 6-3, 6-2 win over Blaz Kavcic at the Serbian Open on Monday was the 200th singles win of his career.

* Australian Sam Stosur’s recent win in Charleston has seen her climb to No. 8 in the world, a career best. Compatriot Alicia Molik has broken back in to the Top 100 as she continues her comeback while American teen sensation Melanie Oudin finds herself a career best No. 31. Britain’s Laura Robson has broken in to the top 300 for the first time, ranked 269; another career best.

* Plans to make tennis a winter sport in New York’s Central Park have been scrapped after residents opposed the inflatable bubbles planned to encapsulate the clay courts, according to The New York Post. The Parks Department declined to say exactly why the plan was dropped but confirmed they are now looking at alternative suggestions.

* Michealla Krajicek has admitted that she has become romantically involved with 36-year-old fitness coach Allistair McCaw to the disgust of her family. In an interview with Dutch magazine Sportweek she said: “For a year, my relationship with Allistair is not just professional anymore. We’re seeing each other. I’m not ashamed about it, but it’s something private. My parents…don’t accept Allistair.”

* Cara Black and Liezel Huber have announced a “mutual break” as doubles partners as of this week. “It wasn’t an easy decision,” said an official statement from Huber. “We have had a great partnership and we are so appreciative of all the fan support. We both continue to strive to do what we love most and that is to compete on the tennis court.”

* Russian Maria Sharapova has scheduled herself to play at Madrid and Strasbourg in preparation for this year’s French Open. She has not played since Indian Wells in March. Sharapova has also signed herself up for this summer’s tournament on the hard courts of Montreal.

* Paul McNamee, who recently lost the election as head of Tennis Australia to Stephen Healy, has called for Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley to step down and focus on player development. He claims nobody can do both roles without conflicting loyalty.”If you’re tournament director, you’re influenced by what the host broadcaster’s needs are, and if you’re head of player development you’re heavily influenced by what your player wants in terms of the schedule,” McNamee told www.backpagelead.com.au.

*With the ATP Masters Tour in Rome last week stars Andreas Seppi, Leander Paes and Jeremy Chardy attended the Vatican on April 28th for the weekly address from Pope Benedict XVI in St. Peter’s Square.

*Ryan Sweeting and Christina McHale of the USA will compete in the French Open main draw for the first time after winning a USTA wildcard qualifying tournament in Boca Raton, Florida.