Earth's Mightiest Summer

[Azure]

Sorry, but I'll think you will find it does. Back from the dead with zero titles, no momentum, to first beat the world number one 10-8 in the fifth in their greatest ever match for sheer quality, wall to wall intensity and unparalleled clutchness...no one but his staunch supporters knew he was ready to turn it around.

And then to win four three set matches in a row, and beating the last three Cincy champions to finally win that elusive ninth masters that he had chased his whole career for, having lost five finals. Yes, it was the Mightiest Summer...

It was Earth's Mightiest Summer.

One swallow does not a summer make.

I understand Nole fans are excited and rightly so. Its wonderful to see him in the mix and vying for the biggest trophies.

 

[Deleted member 77403]

One swallow does not a summer make.

I understand Nole fans are excited and rightly so. Its wonderful to see him in the mix and vying for the biggest trophies.

Didn't you just do the same thing by talking about Wimbledon 2008 final? That one swallow?

 

[Azure]

Didn't you just do the same thing by talking about Wimbledon 2008 final? That one swallow?

I don't call it the greatest summer! I am just quoting an example of what might be considered greater. Its all grey anyway. I don't want to be a spoilt sport. This is a good thread. Let it be so.

Personally the greatest summers are probably when Olympics are held and several records broken

 

[Deleted member 77403]

I don't call it the greatest summer! I am just quoting an example of what might be considered greater. Its all grey anyway. I don't want to be a spoilt sport. This is a good thread. Let it be so.

Personally the greatest summers are probably when Olympics are held and several records broken

Come on. You are coming into this thread and raining on the parade. How about Federer and Nadal fans just let us have this one thread. If you understand it is a happy thread for Djokovic fans, then let it be.

 

[Azure]

Come on. You are coming into this thread and raining on the parade. How about Federer and Nadal fans just let us have this one thread. If you understand it is a happy thread for Djokovic fans, then let it be.

I agree. I actually like Djokovic very much too. I am very happy he is back. Tennis needs the great.

 

[ForumMember]

Good to see him back.. He is great champ.

I had always wished for him to be back for Wimledon. Though now I wish that I had not wished so.

 

[nolefam_2024]

I thought the Queens tournament was great success.

Novak's real form was showing up in Queens, when he was breaking opponents left and right. He had championship points, all in straight sets. He blinked and lost a close match. Cilic was in great form too.

I think that was part of the summer success.

Anyway, after he beat Monfils in AO, I said he looked good post RG in all tournaments, top 2/3 player. He did even better winning Wimbledon. Only time I was doubtful was during sunshine doubles. Those are his hunting grounds and he lost in 1R. But in clay season he already showed improving form.

And I think we shouldn't expect much from him from clay anyway. Its exhausting 3 months with not much to gain. Concentrate on rest of the year.

 

[Azure]

I thought the Queens tournament was great success.

Novak's real form was showing up in Queens, when he was breaking opponents left and right. He had championship points, all in straight sets. He blinked and lost a close match. Cilic was in great form too.

I think that was part of the summer success.

Anyway, after he beat Monfils in AO, I said he looked good post RG in all tournaments, top 2/3 player. He did even better winning Wimbledon. Only time I was doubtful was during sunshine doubles. Those are his hunting grounds and he lost in 1R. But in clay season he already showed improving form.

And I think we shouldn't expect much from him from clay anyway. Its exhausting 3 months with not much to gain. Concentrate on rest of the year.

He was actually performing decently well in RG. A few missed chances and the match went away from him but Wimbledon was super good.

 

[nolefam_2024]

He was actually performing decently well in RG. A few missed chances and the match went away from him but Wimbledon was super good.

I think so. But he was descent there. BHDTL was not getting hit and forehand CC had no depth. His match vs RBA showed he was not at his best.
Still I thought he was favorite vs everyone except Nadal and of course vs Nadal he was not going to win.

Grass was all positive vibes.

 

[kevaninho]

Yea it has been an amazing turnaround. If he can somehow will himself to a 3rd USO title, it may be the greatest comeback within the same year ever in tennis. To go from losing in the 2nd rounds of IW and Miami, your pet tournaments that you used to own, after having elbow surgery to holding two Slams months later would unbelievable. It already has been a great year. I never doubted him though. This is what I said over a year ago:

So now he is coming for that #1 ranking. His chances of getting it this year are slim but I expect him to make his full comeback and be ranked #1 no later than February or March of next year.

Its exciting times for tennis with everyone back. I wouldn't doubt Nadal on HC though, even in Australia next year.
If hes healthy, hes as good a shot as Djokovic of reaching the final, therefore adding to his points.
Remember he has very little after the USO ( Same with Novak obv ).
I predict a lot of twists in the plot ahead.

 

[NoleFam]

Its exciting times for tennis with everyone back. I wouldn't doubt Nadal on HC though, even in Australia next year.
If hes healthy, hes as good a shot as Djokovic of reaching the final, therefore adding to his points.
Remember he has very little after the USO ( Same with Novak obv ).
I predict a lot of twists in the plot ahead.

I'm not doubting Nadal since I think he did a full career resurgence and will be a factor for the big tournaments for at least a few more years. It's just that he is defending 3200 points the rest of the year and Djokovic isn't. We also will be heading into the fall season after the USO and this is where Djokovic is much better than Nadal. So he will have so many ways to eat into the lead Nadal has now. After AO, he probably will have caught him and if not then definitely by the IW/Miami double where he's had so much success.

 

[kevaninho]

I'm not doubting Nadal since I think he did a full career resurgence and will be a factor for the big tournaments for at least a few more years. It's just that he is defending 3200 points the rest of the year and Djokovic isn't. We also will be heading into the fall season after the USO and this is where Djokovic is much better than Nadal. So he will have so many ways to eat into the lead Nadal has now. After AO, he probably will have caught him and if not then definitely by the IW/Miami double where he's had so much success.

This all depends on their bodies also. Whos to say that Djokovic elbow doesn't become a factor for him again? Injuries never truly disappear, especially once you hit the 30s.
I also have a lot of confidence that Nadal will go deep at the USO, he will probably do better in Paris if he plays, and he cant do any worse than last years WTF.
He also has points to gain, and its no guarantee that Djokovic wins every tournament from here.

 

[NoleFam]

This all depends on their bodies also. Whos to say that Djokovic elbow doesn't become a factor for him again? Injuries never truly disappear, especially once you hit the 30s.
I also have a lot of confidence that Nadal will go deep at the USO, he will probably do better in Paris if he plays, and he cant do any worse than last years WTF.
He also has points to gain, and its no guarantee that Djokovic wins every tournament from here.

Well I don't want anyone to be injured and looking at this as if they both remain healthy. Nadal is defending the most at the USO so he cannot gain anything there no matter if he even won the tournament. He can gain points in the fall but he's defending close to 1200 points there so Djokovic can gain even more. So even if Djokovic doesn't win every tournament, he has always performed better in the fall than Nadal which means he will most likely eat into the lead Nadal has right now.

 

[Deleted member 77403]

Well I don't want anyone to be injured and looking at this as if they both remain healthy. Nadal is defending the most at the USO so he cannot gain anything there no matter if he even won the tournament. He can gain points in the fall but he's defending close to 1200 points there so Djokovic can gain even more. So even if Djokovic doesn't win every tournament, he has always performed better in the fall than Nadal which means he will most likely eat into the lead Nadal has right now.

Djokovic could be picking up a crazy amount of points in the coming months, especially with the fact that Nadal cannot gain any points in NYC. If the following scenario happens, Djokovic defeats Nadal in the final, the gap is closed by about 2650 points I believe. Nadal still has to defend China Open and finals in Shanghai...these are historically known as Djokovic hunting grounds. Djokovic likely will not catch Nadal this year, even if he wins the USO, unless Nadal loses very early there, he will end the year world number one. But by next year, things will change.

Now, Federer is the other factor and it is really unwise to write him off. If he gets a peachy draw at USO, he can gain points also. At this stage, he doesn't really need the number one ranking, he just needs to focus on slams and a couple of other events. The number one ranking battle will be between Nadal and Djokovic. If Djokovic loses early in NYC, then Nadal will be holding the top spot for a very long time.

 

[NoleFam]

Djokovic could be picking up a crazy amount of points in the coming months, especially with the fact that Nadal cannot gain any points in NYC. If the following scenario happens, Djokovic defeats Nadal in the final, the gap is closed by about 2650 points I believe. Nadal still has to defend China Open and finals in Shanghai...these are historically known as Djokovic hunting grounds. Djokovic likely will not catch Nadal this year, even if he wins the USO, unless Nadal loses very early there, he will end the year world number one. But by next year, things will change.

Now, Federer is the other factor and it is really unwise to write him off. If he gets a peachy draw at USO, he can gain points also. At this stage, he doesn't really need the number one ranking, he just needs to focus on slams and a couple of other events. The number one ranking battle will be between Nadal and Djokovic. If Djokovic loses early in NYC, then Nadal will be holding the top spot for a very long time.

True. If Nadal loses early in NY, which I actually hope doesn't happen because I want a showdown at least from 2 of these guys, then Federer can pick up the ball at the 10 yard line and bring it home. Lol. Federer is not actually out of it to be honest but he has more points in the fall to defend so it makes it a little harder. He needs help from Nadal, as in Nadal having a bad fall season, to get that ranking. Federer probably doesn't care about the ranking at this point and wants more big titles.

I don't think Djokovic catches Nadal either and only way if Nadal loses early at USO and he goes on a tear in the fall. Not impossible but probably unlikely. However, he is going to eat into that lead in the coming months imo and it will be a showdown looming over that ranking by the early part of next year. We know how much Djokovic loves to be ranked #1 so I truly believe it will be part of his focus and goal as his game continues to regenerate.

 

[Deleted member 77403]

True. If Nadal loses early in NY, which I actually hope doesn't happen because I want a showdown at least from 2 of these guys, then Federer can pick up the ball at the 10 yard line and bring it home. Lol. Federer is not actually out of it to be honest but he has more points in the fall to defend so it makes it a little harder. He needs help from Nadal, as in Nadal having a bad fall season, to get that ranking. Federer probably doesn't care about the ranking at this point and wants more big titles.

I don't think Djokovic catches Nadal either and only way if Nadal loses early at USO and he goes on a tear in the fall. Not impossible but probably unlikely. However, he is going to eat into that lead in the coming months imo and it will be a showdown looming over that ranking by the early part of next year. We know how much Djokovic loves to be ranked #1 so I truly believe it will be part of his focus and goal as his game continues to regenerate.

Oh, I am certain that without a shadow of a doubt, Djokovic want to take that number one ranking away from Nadal. These are part of the key driving motives for him, he will want to reach that pinnacle just like Fedal did upon their return. The fact there is work to be done, will be a massive incentive for Djokovic to focus his mind, and fuel his hunger that much more. You can see just how bad he wants to win again, many matches he has won through sheer will power alone. Realistically, he knows that without some serious help from Nadal, he won't get year end number one, but what he can get is the USO and then use the indoor season as a catalyst to make a true assault at the number one ranking in the early months of next year.

Winning at Cincinnati, which was historically his worst event, has got to be such a massive boost. He can play much more freely, knowing he is gaining with every match, and when you have such a specific target, the work to get their begin to feel more like sprint. You can see the finish line, and you know every stride, and in this case, every match is getting you closer. Also, this is really now Djokovic season, this period all the way to Miami is his favorite time to hunt.

As for Federer, he really doesn't need the year end number one, even if he gets it, he only ties Pete at this stage. And his weeks at the top is miles ahead of Nadal and Djokovic, that should not be his priority now. For him, that is more of a case of been there done that. For Federer, it is about holding onto that slam record, the one he has, and the one the two want so badly to take away from him.

 

[NoleFam]

Oh, I am certain that without a shadow of a doubt, Djokovic want to take that number one ranking away from Nadal. These are part of the key driving motives for him, he will want to reach that pinnacle just like Fedal did upon their return. The fact there is work to be done, will be a massive incentive for Djokovic to focus his mind, and fuel his hunger that much more. You can see just how bad he wants to win again, many matches he has won through sheer will power alone. Realistically, he knows that without some serious help from Nadal, he won't get year end number one, but what he can get is the USO and then use the indoor season as a catalyst to make a true assault at the number one ranking in the early months of next year.

Winning at Cincinnati, which was historically his worst event, has got to be such a massive boost. He can play much more freely, knowing he is gaining with every match, and when you have such a specific target, the work to get their begin to feel more like sprint. You can see the finish line, and you know every stride, and in this case, every match is getting you closer. Also, this is really now Djokovic season, this period all the way to Miami is his favorite time to hunt.

As for Federer, he really doesn't need the year end number one, even if he gets it, he only ties Pete at this stage. And his weeks at the top is miles ahead of Nadal and Djokovic, that should not be his priority now. For him, that is more of a case of been there done that. For Federer, it is about holding onto that slam record, the one he has, and the one the two want so badly to take away from him.

Yea I think the USO has to be his main focus right now. Winning Cincinnati finally after so many tries should give him a boost and extra incentive to go into NY ready to go head to head with these guys and battle for that title. You don't think he's thinking about Nadal having more USO's than him? He knows that his record there is below par for his standards and he will try to improve that.

Now as we go into the fall, I think Djokovic relishes these upcoming tournaments and he will go in there fresher than other years. I think he will be hungry for those big tournaments where he's had so much success. This is where I think he begins to start thinking about improving his ranking and how he can eat into that difference between him and Nadal. He probably won't get that #1 but top 3 is a definite possibility and will set the stage for early next year where there are other tournaments where he usually plays well. That's where he takes it imo.

Yea Federer is just thinking about his Slam record and also maintaining it. He knows Nadal is too close for comfort. I don't even think he is thinking about #1 right now. He wants that USO which would extend his lead and he wants more fall big titles.

 

[Deleted member 77403]

Yea I think the USO has to be his main focus right now. Winning Cincinnati finally after so many tries should give him a boost and extra incentive to go into NY ready to go head to head with these guys and battle for that title. You don't he's thinking about Nadal having more USO's than him? He knows that his record there is below par for his standards and he will try to improve that.

I think Nadal having more USO titles will be a little on his mind, but I don't think it will be on his mind too much. For him I think it is about trying to become THAT Djokovic again, the one who walked this planet as its one and true heavyweight champion. USO just happens to be the next hop, I also think he is going into the USO with an incredible amount of positive emotions, more than he has had in a long time, having won Wimbledon and completing the Masters set...he has got to be feeling the wind in his back heading into the USO. If he has to go through Nadal, so be it, cross that bridge when it come, if he just focuses on winning the matches, like he did in SW19 and Cincy, then everything else will take care of itself. We know mentally he can be Nadal's equal, and we have also seen the BHDTL coming back into his game at the last event, and his exceptional returning. He will be very difficult to stop if he gets going.

Now as we got into the fall, I think Djokovic relishes these upcoming tournaments and he will go in there fresher than other years. I think he will be hungry for those big tournaments where he's had so much success. This is where I think he begins to start thinking about improving his ranking and how he can eat into that difference between him and Nadal. He probably won't get that #1 but top 3 is a definite possibility and will set the stage for early next year where there are other tournaments where he usually plays well. That's where he takes it imo.

I think, even if Djokovic wins USO, Nadal is taking the number one year end ranking unless he gets injured. Next year though, I fully expect Djokovic to get it at some point barring injury.

Yea Federer is just thinking about his Slam record and also maintaining it. He knows Nadal is too close for comfort. I don't even think he is thinking about #1 right now. He wants that USO which would extend his lead and he wants more fall big titles.

Nadal has been within points for being right on top of Federer in the slam chase. AO 2017 and W 2018, he barely lost in two all time five set classics, that required the most supreme form of clutchness to fend him off, first from Fed himself, and then from Novak...however, it is only a matter of time before Nadal cracks through, if he continues to give himself chances against the top guys in the fifth set. If Nadal wins this USO title, the record is in danger, because with Djokovic returning, Federer winning a third straight AO will be very unlikely, and then we are back on the clay. Federer's focus must only be on slams now, because Nadal is a like a hungry tiger who can sense blood...he got denied by Earth's Mightiest last month, but denying him and stopping him for good are two completely different things...and Nadal is the best big match player, arguably of all time.

 

[NoleFam]

I think Nadal having more USO titles will be a little on his mind, but I don't think it will be on his mind too much. For him I think it is about trying to become THAT Djokovic again, the one who walked this planet as its one and true heavyweight champion. USO just happens to be the next hop, I also think he is going into the USO with an incredible amount of positive emotions, more than he has had in a long time, having won Wimbledon and completing the Masters set...he has got to be feeling the wind in his back heading into the USO. If he has to go through Nadal, so be it, cross that bridge when it come, if he just focuses on winning the matches, like he did in SW19 and Cincy, then everything else will take care of itself. We know mentally he can be Nadal's equal, and we have also seen the BHDTL coming back into his game at the last event, and his exceptional returning. He will be very difficult to stop if he gets going.

Yes I think he wants to be the best again. He was asked at Wimbledon after winning the title does he think he could reach that level that he was when he dominated, and he said he thinks he can be better and said why not? Now I don't know if he will reach 2015-early 2016 Djokovic or 2011 Djokovic but the fact that he believes he can and go even beyond that shows his hunger and how much passion he still has for the game. I think he is emotionally in a good place right now and he heads into NY having won the only big title that has eluded him. So yea his only focus should be on doing the right things and playing the level he needs to win match by match, and lift that trophy.

I think, even if Djokovic wins USO, Nadal is taking the number one year end ranking unless he gets injured. Next year though, I fully expect Djokovic to get it at some point barring injury.

Yes Nadal pretty much has it wrapped up at this point.

Nadal has been within points for being right on top of Federer in the slam chase. AO 2017 and W 2018, he barely lost in two all time five set classics, that required the most supreme form of clutchness to fend him off, first from Fed himself, and then from Novak...however, it is only a matter of time before Nadal cracks through, if he continues to give himself chances against the top guys in the fifth set. If Nadal wins this USO title, the record is in danger, because with Djokovic returning, Federer winning a third straight AO will be very unlikely, and then we are back on the clay. Federer's focus must only be on slams now, because Nadal is a like a hungry tiger who can sense blood...he got denied by Earth's Mightiest last month, but denying him and stopping him for good are two completely different things...and Nadal is the best big match player, arguably of all time.

I actually think this year has been one of the most important years when it comes to that Slam record and whether Federer keeps it. Djokovic saved Federer's record at Wimbledon imo. Without the Djokovic resurgence, Nadal wins that Wimbledon title and goes to NY the heavy favorite to win 3 Slams this season and come within 1 of Federer's total. This USO will also be very important for the Slam record. If Nadal wins this tournament, he will reach 20. The hunger he has right now and the level he is playing this year shows how much he wants to be the man on top. Now that Djokovic has risen from the ashes, this helps Federer because it puts a hurdle in between Nadal and the record. To me, this makes this last Slam of the year really important and why I think Nadal will have guns blazing in NY.

 

[Deleted member 77403]

I actually think this year has been one of the most important years when it comes to that Slam record and whether Federer keeps it. Djokovic saved Federer's record at Wimbledon imo. Without the Djokovic resurgence, Nadal wins that Wimbledon title and goes to NY the heavy favorite to win 3 Slams this season and come within 1 of Federer's total. This USO will also be very important for the Slam record. If Nadal wins this tournament, he will reach 20. The hunger he has right now and the level he is playing this year shows how much he wants to be the man on top. Now that Djokovic has risen from the ashes, this helps Federer because it puts a hurdle in between Nadal and the record. To me, this makes this last Slam of the year really important and why I think Nadal will have guns blazing in NY.

Agreed. But lets take a look at the other side of the coin. Djokovic's resurgence out of no where is something Nadal is all to familiar with. Back in 2010, everyone was saying Nadal would be breaking the slam record, Federer had slipped out of his prime in 2010 and Nadal had just won three slams on three different surfaces and was about to start his long reign as the world's best. Then, out of nowhere, Djokovic happened in 2011, and it cost Nadal a potential three slams W 2011, USO 2011 and AO 2012....and who knows how much those grinding battles took out of Nadal, who then had to miss several more slams. Yet again, after winning RG 2018 having all the momentum, and with Federer faltering for the first time since his resurgence, Nadal had a path to claiming that 18th slam and all important third Wimbledon title, third channel slam, the three slams minimum on three different surfaces...dramatically stopped yet again by Djokovic who decided to wake up from the dead at that very specific tournament.

Talk about annoying. Nadal will knows those feelings all too well, and in an attempt to prevent what happened then from happening again, could have a sense of desperation about him in NYC also, which can actually go against him. Because, if Djokovic gets the USO, the landscape has dramatically changed once again, and Nadal is no spring chicken himself, he is 32 and he will still need four more slams to get the record. A Djokovic win in NYC could be a savage dagger to the heart of Nadal's chase of the slam record, and one he will be very anxious to avoid, because he will be feeling it, he knows Djokovic is coming in with even more momentum than he has, having won Cincy also, and getting better and better. USO could give us an explosive climax to this year...but win or lose, triumph or heartbreak, domination or shocking defeat...Djokovic's Earth's Mightiest Summer has made this USO one that we cannot wait to see unfold.

 

[NoleFam]

Agreed. But lets take a look at the other side of the coin. Djokovic's resurgence out of no where is something Nadal is all to familiar with. Back in 2010, everyone was saying Nadal would be breaking the slam record, Federer had slipped out of his prime in 2010 and Nadal had just won three slams on three different surfaces and was about to start his long reign as the world's best. Then, out of nowhere, Djokovic happened in 2011, and it cost Nadal a potential three slams W 2011, USO 2011 and AO 2012....and who knows how much those grinding battles took out of Nadal, who then had to miss several more slams. Yet again, after winning RG 2018 having all the momentum, and with Federer faltering for the first time since his resurgence, Nadal had a path to claiming that 18th slam and all important third Wimbledon title, third channel slam, the three slams minimum on three different surfaces...dramatically stopped yet again by Djokovic who decided to wake up from the dead at that very specific tournament.

Talk about annoying. Nadal will knows those feelings all too well, and in an attempt to prevent what happened then from happening again, could have a sense of desperation about him in NYC also, which can actually go against him. Because, if Djokovic gets the USO, the landscape has dramatically changed once again, and Nadal is no spring chicken himself, he is 32 and he will still need four more slams to get the record. A Djokovic win in NYC could be a savage dagger to the heart of Nadal's chase of the slam record, and one he will be very anxious to avoid, because he will be feeling it, he knows Djokovic is coming in with even more momentum than he has, having won Cincy also, and getting better and better. USO could give us an explosive climax to this year...but win or lose, triumph or heartbreak, domination or shocking defeat...Djokovic's Earth's Mightiest Summer has made this USO one that we cannot wait to see unfold.

Yes and nothing against Nadal because I appreciate what he brings to the game and I like him well enough, but I hope this actually is somewhat the case. If he feels more pressure, this will play into Djokovic's hands if another big match happens. Actually, I replied to another thread of yours where I said I think this year could prove eerily similar to 2013. Remember when Nadal edged Djokovic in that epic at RG SF, beat him in Canada, and swept the whole USO series including the USO? That win at RG was a catalyst for him where he gained the edge over Djokovic and carried that all the way through the USO defeating him in the final. This time Djokovic beat him in an epic in the Wimbledon SF, they both split the USO series lead up tournaments but Djokovic has more momentum. Will this play out like 2013 where they meet in the final but is this Djokovic's turn to ride the wave of the epic win earlier in the season to a 2nd Slam title? That's something to consider and what I really hope is true. It will be a must see tournament in any case because I think it will be highly competitive from a number of players.

Yes but this tournament will be vital to Nadal and his hopes of the record. He will be hoping that this doesn't become 2011 all over again where it looks like he was going to be dominant force for years and become the Slam leader, just for the rug to be pulled from underneath him. This could actually end up happening again as Djokovic looks to be on the upward trend after two big victories this summer. I think that's why USO and the upcoming AO will tell whether Nadal passes Federer or not. A lot is riding on these two tournaments.

 

[TheAssassin]

Djokovic was happy to "play the role" of Fed's GS record protector a few years back so no reason to think he won't like doing that again now. But seriously I hope for his sake that he keeps this return to form going. We really enjoyed and at one point even got used to him winning most of the events, then after all the struggles he had after that, even those who don't support him started to realize what a beast he can be, how good he is for tennis and how tough it is to dominate at any point; and these recent two titles were stunning moments. I am known as an eternal optimist but still I didn't go around saying I told you so as he did surprise me. And because of that and all the quality and drama Djokovic regularly brings in his matches, hopefully this resurgence keeps on going for a while, just like it has been the case with his two great rivals. Lack of quality youngsters is another topic, but having a guy like Novak playing well is always a positive thing.

 

[Deleted member 77403]

Yes and nothing against Nadal because I appreciate what he brings to the game and I like him well enough, but I hope this actually is somewhat the case. If he feels more pressure, this will play into Djokovic's hands if another big match happens. Actually, I replied to another thread of yours where I said I think this year could prove eerily similar to 2013. Remember when Nadal edged Djokovic in that epic at RG SF, beat him in Canada, and swept the whole USO series including the USO? That loss at RG was a catalyst for him here he gained the edge over Djokovic and carried that all the way through the USO defeating him in the final. This time Djokovic beat him in an epic in the Wimbledon SF, they both split the USO series lead up tournaments but Djokovic has more momentum. Will this play out like 2013 where they meet in the final but is this Djokovic's turn to ride the wave of the epic win earlier in the season to a 2nd Slam title? That's something to consider and what I really hope is true. It will be a must see tournament in any case because I think it will be highly competitive from a number of players.

Yes but this tournament will be vital to Nadal and his hopes of the record. He will be hoping that this doesn't become 2011 all over again where it looks like he was going to be dominant force for years and become the Slam leader, just for the rug to be pulled from underneath him. This could actually end up happening again as Djokovic looks to be on the upward trend after two big victories this summer. I think that's why USO and the upcoming AO will tell whether Nadal passes Federer or not. A lot is riding on these two tournaments.

Well said, and yeah, Nadal has all my respect and admiration and I do consider myself a fan, the guy is too much of a legend for me not to like and admire him, and he helped Djokovic become the world beater he is today.. And in this so called weak era, it is still an exciting time to be a tennis fan, as we are about to enter the end game for who ends up the GOAT. And just to add, the last time Djokovic beat Nadal on his way to the Wimbledon title, he did it again in USO. And I have sneaky suspicion that Djokovic is kind of already or should I say still in Nadal's head a bit...I think that cost him the first set in their Wimbledon semi. The momentum in their match up is on Djokovic's side.

The good thing for Nadal - The last time he beat Djokovic on a non-clay court was at the USO
The bad thing for Nadal - That was five years ago, and he has lost every single time off of clay since then

 

[MichaelNadal]

Agreed. But lets take a look at the other side of the coin. Djokovic's resurgence out of no where is something Nadal is all to familiar with. Back in 2010, everyone was saying Nadal would be breaking the slam record, Federer had slipped out of his prime in 2010 and Nadal had just won three slams on three different surfaces and was about to start his long reign as the world's best. Then, out of nowhere, Djokovic happened in 2011, and it cost Nadal a potential three slams W 2011, USO 2011 and AO 2012....and who knows how much those grinding battles took out of Nadal, who then had to miss several more slams. Yet again, after winning RG 2018 having all the momentum, and with Federer faltering for the first time since his resurgence, Nadal had a path to claiming that 18th slam and all important third Wimbledon title, third channel slam, the three slams minimum on three different surfaces...dramatically stopped yet again by Djokovic who decided to wake up from the dead at that very specific tournament.

Talk about annoying. Nadal will knows those feelings all too well, and in an attempt to prevent what happened then from happening again, could have a sense of desperation about him in NYC also, which can actually go against him. Because, if Djokovic gets the USO, the landscape has dramatically changed once again, and Nadal is no spring chicken himself, he is 32 and he will still need four more slams to get the record. A Djokovic win in NYC could be a savage dagger to the heart of Nadal's chase of the slam record, and one he will be very anxious to avoid, because he will be feeling it, he knows Djokovic is coming in with even more momentum than he has, having won Cincy also, and getting better and better. USO could give us an explosive climax to this year...but win or lose, triumph or heartbreak, domination or shocking defeat...Djokovic's Earth's Mightiest Summer has made this USO one that we cannot wait to see unfold.

lol
I can't wait till Ultronians sit back down

 

[NoleFam]

Well said, and yeah, Nadal has all my respect and admiration and I do consider myself a fan, the guy is too much of a legend for me not to like and admire him, and he helped Djokovic become the world beater he is today.. And in this so called weak era, it is still an exciting time to be a tennis fan, as we are about to enter the end game for who ends up the GOAT. And just to add, the last time Djokovic beat Nadal on his way to the Wimbledon title, he did it again in USO. And I have sneaky suspicion that Djokovic is kind of already or should I say still in Nadal's head a bit...I think that cost him the first set in their Wimbledon semi. The momentum in their match up is on Djokovic's side.

The good thing for Nadal - The last time he beat Djokovic on a non-clay court was at the USO
The bad thing for Nadal - That was five years ago, and he has lost every single time off of clay since then

Yea the big 3 all pushed each other to greater and greater heights which has given the sport some epic battles and memories. It is exciting to see how all this will end up and who will sit on top of the leader board.

Yea Djokovic definitely has the momentum now and needs to ride that wave through the USO. If it comes down to him and Nadal, he should use his edge on the surface to his advantage and for Nadal, he can say I beat him here the last time we played. It will be a battle if those are the last two standing but I think Djokovic would be eager to even the score.

 

[metsman]

Djokovic was happy to "play the role" of Fed's GS record protector a few years back so no reason to think he won't like doing that again now. But seriously I hope for his sake that he keeps this return to form going. We really enjoyed and at one point even got used to him winning most of the events, then after all the struggles he had after that, even those who don't support him started to realize what a beast he can be, how good he is for tennis and how tough it is to dominate at any point; and these recent two titles were stunning moments. I am known as an eternal optimist but still I didn't go around saying I told you so as he did surprise me. And because of that and all the quality and drama Djokovic regularly brings in his matches, hopefully this resurgence keeps on going for a while, just like it has been the case with his two great rivals. Lack of quality youngsters is another topic, but having a guy like Novak playing well is always a positive thing.

well, funny way for him play the role of Fed's GS protector, you know, taking away more slams from Federer than Nadal.

 

[TheAssassin]

well, funny way for him play the role of Fed's GS protector, you know, taking away more slams from Federer than Nadal.

Did I say he played it all the time? No, in fact I specified a few years back (2011-12) and the present. Call it cherry picking if you want but I didn't want to imply anything bad about Fed by saying that. He certainly stopped Nadal several times when he looked like the man to beat at the Majors, which is the main reason why I called Novak Fed's GS protector in those moments. Overall, depending on how you think Fed would do in some of the finals if Djokovic wasn't there to stop him one round earlier, the damage Djokovic did to him was a bit bigger. But there is no denying that should Djokovic and Nadal meet in the near future on the big stage, you will want Djokovic to win for obvious reason. Just like I am sure you did in their past meetings at Slams.

 

[itrium84]

I just want to thank hitman and nolefam for nice&calm, accurate and deep analysis in last 15+ comments here in this thread. It was really informative, and this kind of correspondence is a reason I visit tt forum. It's rare, as anything else with value.

Sent from my Redmi Note 4 using Tapatalk

 

[NoleFam]

I just want to thank hitman and nolefam for nice&calm, accurate and deep analysis in last 15+ comments here in this thread. It was really informative, and this kind of correspondence is a reason I visit tt forum. It's rare, as anything else with value.

Sent from my Redmi Note 4 using Tapatalk

Thanks for that and glad you feel that way.

 

[Deleted member 77403]

lol
I can't wait till Ultronians sit back down

OK Bullzillion, what ever you say. Take several seats for now.

 

[Deleted member 77403]

I just want to thank hitman and nolefam for nice&calm, accurate and deep analysis in last 15+ comments here in this thread. It was really informative, and this kind of correspondence is a reason I visit tt forum. It's rare, as anything else with value.

Sent from my Redmi Note 4 using Tapatalk

Thanks. But, it seems even nice & calm convos can get under the skin of some though.

 

[Deleted member 77403]

Yea the big 3 all pushed each other to greater and greater heights which has given the sport some epic battles and memories. It is exciting to see how all this will end up and who will sit on top of the leader board.

Yea Djokovic definitely has the momentum now and needs to ride that wave through the USO. If it comes down to him and Nadal, he should use his edge on the surface to his advantage and for Nadal, he can say I beat him here the last time we played. It will be a battle if those are the last two standing but I think Djokovic would be eager to even the score.

It's six of one, half a dozen of the other type scenario. Both will need to pull on the positives should this match happen. One thing we do know though is that Djoovic's BHDTL, which was almost absent from their last match is now almost back to where it should be. That is the one shot that Nadal, and quite frankly everyone else also fears. If he finds his timing on that shot, along with his increased mental desire to will himself on to victory, it will be a blockbuster again.

That being said, even if he loses to Nadal, or Federer, or anyone else, I cannot complain. His year is already an outstanding success, with the two titles he did win. He went from holding nothing to winning a fourth Wimbledon and completing the Masters set...seriously cannot complain now, come what may in NYC.

 

[Azure]

Thanks. But, it seems even nice & calm convos can get under the skin of some though.

Hey Hitman, even with our brief convos we have been very amicable, no? I think its so nice when people can discuss the sport and players respectfully (and with humor )

 

[NoleFam]

It's six of one, half a dozen of the other type scenario. Both will need to pull on the positives should this match happen. One thing we do know though is that Djoovic's BHDTL, which was almost absent from their last match is now almost back to where it should be. That is the one shot that Nadal, and quite frankly everyone else also fears. If he finds his timing on that shot, along with his increased mental desire to will himself on to victory, it will be a blockbuster again.

That being said, even if he loses to Nadal, or Federer, or anyone else, I cannot complain. His year is already an outstanding success, with the two titles he did win. He went from holding nothing to winning a fourth Wimbledon and completing the Masters set...seriously cannot complain now, come what may in NYC.

Yea both will have to pull out all the stops if that match happens. I also noticed his backhand down the line is coming back. He hit a few down the line screamers in Cincinnati. He will definitely need that clicking to really take home that title. The one thing he has right now that I love regardless if his game is not there is his mental strength. He showed great mental strength in both Wimbledon and Cincinnati.

True. Even if he wins nothing else this year, this year was a major success for him. To be able to rise from the ashes like this and win both Wimbledon and Cincinnati is astounding. If someone would have said after he had to have surgery in February that he would win these two titles I would have taken it in a heartbeat.

 

[OldschoolKIaus]

And the tennis world talks more about Zverev and his new coach or Federers last loss ...

It seems that nobody cares about a pusher like Djokovic

 

[Djokovic_is_the_best#1]

Brilliant turnaround. He’s proven why he’s one of the greatest ever. Can’t wait for us open!

 

[TripleATeam]

And the tennis world talks more about Zverev and his new coach or Federers last loss ...

It seems that nobody cares about a pusher like Djokovic

There's a 24 hour news cycle for everything, Toad.

Djokovic's accomplishment can't be continuously harped on by the news for days after it happens. People lose interest. Only the tennis community/forums discuss it beyond the obligatory "___________ has done what no man before him has done!"

 

[Deleted member 77403]

Hey Hitman, even with our brief convos we have been very amicable, no? I think its so nice when people can discuss the sport and players respectfully (and with humor )

Absolutely.

 

[Azure]

And the tennis world talks more about Zverev and his new coach or Federers last loss ...

It seems that nobody cares about a pusher like Djokovic

You see when he goes on a winning spree he does it week after week that its hard for people to talk about him because he wins another one immediately.

 

[Deleted member 77403]

Yea both will have to pull out all the stops if that match happens. I also noticed his backhand down the line is coming back. He hit a few down the line screamers in Cincinnati. He will definitely need that clicking to really take home that title. The one thing he has right now that I love regardless if his game is not there is his mental strength. He showed great mental strength in both Wimbledon and Cincinnati.

True. Even if he wins nothing else this year, this year was a major success for him. To be able to rise from the ashes like this and win both Wimbledon and Cincinnati is astounding. If someone would have said after he had to have surgery in February that he would win these two titles I would have taken it in a heartbeat.

In a heartbeat indeed. Anything else this season is just icing on the cake.

 

[Deleted member 77403]

And the tennis world talks more about Zverev and his new coach or Federers last loss ...

It seems that nobody cares about a pusher like Djokovic

It seems Federer and Nadal care very much...

 

[Primavera]

I wonder what sort of threads will emerge when djokovic loses in USO. Preferably early. Can I reasonably hope that all the screaming djokolife will hide in its holes watching the two finals that its hero managed to win over 2 years and crying bitterly?

 

[Plamen1234]

I wonder what sort of threads will emerge when djokovic loses in USO. Preferably early. Can I reasonably hope that all the screaming djokolife will hide in its holes watching the two finals that its hero managed to win over 2 years and crying bitterly?

Well the user who created the thread is I will say pretty balanced Djokovic fan.And when Djokovic was having bad results earlier this year he was here,not hiding or something like this

 

[Deleted member 77403]

I wonder what sort of threads will emerge when djokovic loses in USO. Preferably early. Can I reasonably hope that all the screaming djokolife will hide in its holes watching the two finals that its hero managed to win over 2 years and crying bitterly?

Haha.

Bitter Nadal fan.

 

[Deleted member 77403]

Well the user who created the thread is I will say pretty balanced Djokovic fan.And when Djokovic was having bad results earlier this year he was here,not hiding or something like this

Thanks, but you don't need to defend me against a troll, who thought I invented the phrase Djokodal....

 

[Azure]

Haha.

Bitter Nadal fan.

How did you conclude? May be true but curious.

 

[TripleATeam]

How did you conclude? May be true but curious.

This person is scared that their favorite's supremacy over the tour might be challenged. Currently the only consistent player of the Big 3 is Nadal.

They also seem hurt because Djokovic beat their favorite in something that mattered. Most Federer fans understand that Federer didn't play so well in Cincinnati and was pretty lucky to even be in the final. Nadal fans, on the other hand, consider Djokovic's win in the Wimbledon SF a product of either luck or the roof. Either way, it makes them angry.

 

[TheAssassin]

How did you conclude? May be true but curious.

Yeah.

Bitter part is obvious but Nadal fan, I am not so sure. Maybe just a hater.

 

[Deleted member 77403]

How did you conclude? May be true but curious.

I have read his or her posts, I know a bitter Nadal fan when I see one, and I will say it without hesitation.

This person is scared that their favorite's supremacy over the tour might be challenged. Currently the only consistent player of the Big 3 is Nadal.

They also seem hurt because Djokovic beat their favorite in something that mattered. Most Federer fans understand that Federer didn't play so well in Cincinnati and was pretty lucky to even be in the final. Nadal fans, on the other hand, consider Djokovic's win in the Wimbledon SF a product of either luck or the roof. Either way, it makes them angry.

Not all Nadal fans, but this one for certain.

 

[TripleATeam]

Not all Nadal fans, but this one for certain.

Oh, of course. "They" was in reference to the poster, trying to be gender-neutral. Not attacking all Nadal fans by any means. Thanks for clearing that up!