Australian open 2017

[Marsman]

So... Serena beats Steffi Graf's open era record of 22 Gram Slam titles.

Must admit, I'm a little disappointed by that. It has taken Serena 5-6 more years to equal and beat Steffi's record, and in my opinion, her physicality gives her an advantage. Only Serena's inconsistency has stopped her winning many more.

It is what it is, but for me Steffi's achievement holds more significance.

Anyway; on to the men's final: Federer Vs Nadal.

I think it's been 6 years since they last met in a Grand slam final. Will be great to see the old rivalry renewed, but Federer's record against Nadal is as poor as Murray's against Djokovic. Neither are in their prime any more, but Federer has had an extra day rest and a much less punishing semi final match, which might tell.

Whichever way it goes, let's hope it's a good contest.

Seems quite unique this Australian open. In both finals, 3 players at least 35 years old and both see the return of old rivalries.

 

[Pigeon_Killer]

Pretty much lost interest once Murray was knocked out but Federer and Nadal both rekindled my interest in the semis, even more now they'll be facing each other again

As for Serena, she can only beat what's in front of her and she's done that more often than not. There's been a lot of discussion over the years about who faced the better quality of opponent and while on paper it looks like Graf it's hard to gauge how many titles Serena's opponents may have won without her having such a physical advantage over them.

 

[semi-pro waster]

Congratulations to Serena, you can argue about the time taken or the quality of opponents but it's still hugely impressive to have taken the record for the open era and showed such longevity.

Since Murray is out I hope Federer wins it, I much prefer his style of play and I'd also like to see him push that record of Grand Slam wins just that little bit further.

 

[Pigeon_Killer]

This set is absolutely brutal after the second

Federer destroying Nadal with the backhand.

Edit: That's as good as I've ever seen Federer play in a single set.

 

[el_dazza]

Didn't miss anything there did he! Why was Nadal favourite?

 

[Pigeon_Killer]

Shot of the match

 

[el_dazza]

It was an insane shot. To 5 sets we go!

 

[Pigeon_Killer]

Nadal's level has been pretty consistent in this match, it's Federer's level that's going to decide who wins or not.

Great match so far but not an epic like their Wimbledon final

 

[el_dazza]

Nadal's level has been pretty consistent in this match, it's Federer's level that's going to decide who wins or not.

Great match so far but not an epic like their Wimbledon final

I was just thinking the same. 9 years ago that was

 

[Pigeon_Killer]

Pervert camera man

 

[el_dazza]

Fed not done yet!!

 

[Pigeon_Killer]

The rally to end all rallies.

 

[el_dazza]

Are you kidding me?! That was INSANE

 

[el_dazza]

5th break point if the game for Federer..

TAKES IT!

 

[el_dazza]

0-30, surely it's not going to be another break..
Ace.
15-40. This is turning into an epic now.
Another ace..
Deuce! Amazing!

 

[el_dazza]

That was a HORRIBLE call.

 

[el_dazza]

Federer is the champion! Amazing achievement at 35!

 

[Pigeon_Killer]

Did not expect that but what an amazing achievement. Murray needs to take note, less is sometimes more. 6 months away from the game FFS

 

[Sui]

Great match to watch, very pleased for Federer.

Although slightly disappointed he didn't win 3-1 for my bet

 

[Psycho Ned]

Did not expect that but what an amazing achievement. Murray needs to take note, less is sometimes more. 6 months away from the game FFS

Yeah, can obviously understand Murray racing round the circuit playing everywhere to get to number one last year but it's arguably compromised the start of his 2017 season. He should ease off till nearer the French now.

Can't be a coincidence that the 2 guys in the final played hardly any tennis in the second half of 2016.