Gilles Simon... and the French in general

[johnny ballgame]

Couple things:

1. Gilles Simon, I like his game. That match vs Robredo was only the second time I've seen him play. Love the 2HBH down the line, looks very much like Safin's. Legs straight with no knee-bend, full shoulder-turn and follow-through, tons of power coming from the left (non-dominant) hand. Also an excellent mover, quite fast. The forehand and second serve look a little shaky. Nice attitude on court, smiles a lot, seems to be having fun.

I'm now a fan, hope he can challenge for a place in the top 15 or 20 in 2008.

2. I have to say that I'm a fan of pretty much every French player at the moment. Simon, Paul Henri Mathieu, Gasquet, Tsonga, Monfils, Santoro, Mahut. They are all a joy to watch, and all have different styles (to a degree). It's a bit odd that none of the French have gone deep in slams lately, but I guess that's been the general story with French players throughout history. Beautiful styles to watch but underachievers in slams. I hope that will change with this group.

 

[simi]

Forgot Arnuad Clement on your list. I never miss one of his matches. His bandanna and sun glasses are a fashion statement by themselves.

 

[Klatu Verata Necktie]

I'm with you. Many of the French players are very entertaining to watch. Paul Henri Mathieu, for example, has been a revelation to me. His groundstrokes are lovely.

 

[johnny ballgame]

Forgot Arnuad Clement on your list. I never miss one of his matches. His bandanna and sun glasses are a fashion statement by themselves.

Yes, I enjoy watching Clement as well, though not quite as much as the others. I admit that I do like the bandana and shades thing.

 

[johnny ballgame]

Many of the French players are very entertaining to watch. Paul Henri Mathieu, for example, has been a revelation to me. His groundstrokes are lovely.

Agreed. Aside from Nadal, I think PHM gets more "hop" on the ball after the bounce than anyone on tour.

I was in Key Biscayne this year and watched him win an early round match... caught a practice session as well, very impressive.

 

[Klatu Verata Necktie]

Agreed. Aside from Nadal, I think PHM gets more "hop" on the ball after the bounce than anyone on tour.

I was in Key Biscayne this year and watched him win an early round match... caught a practice session as well, very impressive.

Do you live in South Florida? If so, we should get together.

I go to the tournament every year. It's such a treat to have such a high quality tournament in my backyard!

 

[johnny ballgame]

Do you live in South Florida? If so, we should get together.

Afraid not - I live in Atlanta. I was in town on business and stayed for the first Thu, Fri, and half of Saturday matches. I've been to several pro tournaments (including the US Open), and Key Biscayne was my favorite. Best fan experience I've come across (once on the grounds anyway... traffic is a little tough!).