Roger will DESTROY Baghdatis
- Thread starter Coria
- Start date
skip1969
G.O.A.T.
even if it only goes three, i don't think it will be a blow-out. and i think it will be very little sideshow . . . and very good tennis.
so forget the girlfriends, forget the chanting greeks, forget nerves, tiredness . . . forget the rambling commentators even.
my advice: keep your eyes on the court. and on the ball.
oooooh . . . (shiver)
can't wait!
so forget the girlfriends, forget the chanting greeks, forget nerves, tiredness . . . forget the rambling commentators even.
my advice: keep your eyes on the court. and on the ball.
oooooh . . . (shiver)
can't wait!
JennyS
Hall of Fame
I agree with those that think Marcos will be out of steam ala Safin in 2004.
Just out of curiousity I checked out how much time Roger and Marcos spent on court through the semis. Here are the stats:
Bagdatis
time on court: 16 hours, 5 minutes
sets played: 25
Federer
time on court: 13 hours, 15 min
sets played: 22
Just out of curiousity I checked out how much time Roger and Marcos spent on court through the semis. Here are the stats:
Bagdatis
time on court: 16 hours, 5 minutes
sets played: 25
Federer
time on court: 13 hours, 15 min
sets played: 22
Count Grishnackh
Banned
I didn't realize that the Bag Daddy bandwagon went this far even to the point that people pick him to beat Federer. But as much as I'd like to see this story have a happy ending, I believe Fed will slam the book shut on this fairy tale in 4 maybe 5 sets. Until I see Fed lose his grip on his dominance on the tour I can't possibly pick against him unless on clay. Sometimes your mouth and your heart say Bag Daddy but deep down there's a voice inside you that kinda knows that Fed will win. It's called the truth. If Marcos wins, I'd be delighted, it would throw some excitement to tennis, one person winning everything is no fun for the fans, unless its for Fed fans. But even the predictability of dominance is too much for me.
alfa164164
Professional
Does any of this thread have a similar taste to "Safin will destroy Johansson" from a couple of years ago?
erik-the-red
Semi-Pro
I predict Federer in four.
Volly master
Semi-Pro
Tchocky said:
boris becker 1985 wimbledon., agassi won the uso unseeded too right? back in 99 or 97?. and the guy who beat sampars in 95 at wimbledon right?
Moose Malloy
G.O.A.T.
Gaudio was the last unseeded slam champion.
Edmonson('76) was the last unseeded Australian Open champ.
Edmonson('76) was the last unseeded Australian Open champ.
It could be a good thing for MB not to win this title. Winning USO at age 20 screwed up safin for years he says as the expectations on him were so huge and he couldn't deal with it. Could MB?? His ATP career is without a title, and who knows how it would affect him, easy going as he may seem.
Coria said:
I saw it differently. He turned his game a notch down to a safer
baseline game from semi-final against Kiefer. He wanted to dominate
Haas and Davydenko with variety of shots but quickly found out
he couldn't. His net game was very sub-par.
I think his confidence was hurt. Look how he dropped number of
net approaches significantly in the match against Kiefer.
If Federer plays in this safe mode again in final againt Baghdatis
and Bagdahtis gambles big early in the match, Baghdatis has a
chance to beat Fed in 5 or even 4 sets. (OK, it's an wild call but
there is no fun in predicting Fed to win...)
Docalex007
Hall of Fame
Marcos seems to be a really good guy, full of energy and smiles ALL the time. I have a lot of respect for this kid and think he's great for the game and for his country.
I'm a huge Federerererer (c'mon, you know you tried to read it) fan but if I could accept anyone beating my fav. player it would be Marcos. I'm not jumping on his bandwagon, but he's caught my attention (of course, like everyone elses attention) and really wish him the best against Fed.
My realistic prediction: Federator in 4
BTW, is Marcos' new nickname any of the following: Bag - Baggy - Bager - Bag Daddy - Bagdad - Daddy Bags - Friedrich Otto Wilhelm II - Bags?
....cause some of you have used these to describe the one and only Marcos Baghdatis.
I'm a huge Federerererer (c'mon, you know you tried to read it) fan but if I could accept anyone beating my fav. player it would be Marcos. I'm not jumping on his bandwagon, but he's caught my attention (of course, like everyone elses attention) and really wish him the best against Fed.
My realistic prediction: Federator in 4
BTW, is Marcos' new nickname any of the following: Bag - Baggy - Bager - Bag Daddy - Bagdad - Daddy Bags - Friedrich Otto Wilhelm II - Bags?
....cause some of you have used these to describe the one and only Marcos Baghdatis.
BreakPoint
Bionic Poster
Docalex007 said:
"Bagdad" has a catchy sound to it.
LOL.
Docalex007
Hall of Fame
BreakPoint said:"Bagdad" has a catchy sound to it.
LOL, yeah, I was thinking that myself.
Possible headline on Monday: Federer storms Bagdad?
Davidbrent
New User
I just hope he has some of his fans there - the final was sold out months ago and apparently his cheering section could only get 8 tickets. They were trying to work something out with Tennis Australia......he needs that atmosphere though.
BreakPoint
Bionic Poster
Docalex007 said:LOL, yeah, I was thinking that myself.
Possible headline on Monday: Federer storms Bagdad?
Or even worse: "The Swiss annihilates Bagdad!!!"
LOL.
VolklVenom
Semi-Pro
i second that pound cat
troytennisbum
Rookie
Roger will win the match, but he's not going to "destroy" Bagdatis.
It will be a good match.
It will be a good match.
West Coast Ace
G.O.A.T.
Fed in 4. I think it will be very similar to today's Semi with Kiefer; the 1st 2 sets will be pretty high quality and get split, then Fed will put him away in the next 2.
Vegas has the following line on the Final:
bet 100 to win 600 on Big Daddy
bet 1000 to win 100 on Fed (yes, you read that correctly)
Vegas has the following line on the Final:
bet 100 to win 600 on Big Daddy
bet 1000 to win 100 on Fed (yes, you read that correctly)
jackson vile
G.O.A.T.
I hope Baghdatis, poetic justice:mrgreen:
And one heck of a cool guy
And one heck of a cool guy
L
Lee
Guest
as much as i would love to see marcos win, Federer will win in 3 tough sets...
Baghdatis on the final:
"I mean, I'm in the final," he said. "Every match is different. Every day is different. I believe in it. My coach does. Everybody in my corner does. So I give myself a good chance.
"I'm really quick on the feet. I move very well in the court. I have a great eye. I see the ball very fast. I can adapt to any players, any style of players.
"I think that's my game, adapting to all the players. I mean, I have maybe all the shots."
As does Federer, as Baghdatis acknowledges, but Cyprus's only player in the top 1000 says he's learnt from his three losses to the Swiss and knows what to expect this time.
"First of all, he's playing really well on important points," Baghdatis said.
"Every time he has important points he just serves so well, he's tactically so well. But I think it will be a great match. May the best win."
If the world No.54 - who is attempting to become the fourth-lowest-ranked player in grand slam history to win the championship - does manage an upset, he'll dedicate victory to his mother Andry.
"I mean, I'm in the final," he said. "Every match is different. Every day is different. I believe in it. My coach does. Everybody in my corner does. So I give myself a good chance.
"I'm really quick on the feet. I move very well in the court. I have a great eye. I see the ball very fast. I can adapt to any players, any style of players.
"I think that's my game, adapting to all the players. I mean, I have maybe all the shots."
As does Federer, as Baghdatis acknowledges, but Cyprus's only player in the top 1000 says he's learnt from his three losses to the Swiss and knows what to expect this time.
"First of all, he's playing really well on important points," Baghdatis said.
"Every time he has important points he just serves so well, he's tactically so well. But I think it will be a great match. May the best win."
If the world No.54 - who is attempting to become the fourth-lowest-ranked player in grand slam history to win the championship - does manage an upset, he'll dedicate victory to his mother Andry.
Nick Bollettieri on the final:
Unknown, underrated and an underdog. How in the name of the Lord did Marcos Baghdatis, a 20-year-old kid from the tiny nation of Cyprus, manage to reach the final of the Australian Open, where tomorrow he will fight, unseeded, for a Grand Slam title, in only his sixth-ever Slam tournament, against Roger Federer, the best player the planet has seen?
It's the question that's been on the lips of the tennis world since Baghdatis came from two sets down against David Nalbandian on Thursday to win that remarkable five-set semi-final. My answer starts with, but by no means ends with, two words: big balls.
The kid himself said he had no idea how he managed to get back into it against Nalbandian but the fact is, he did. His attitude is great. Mentally he hasn't let big-name opponents or adverse situations unsettle him, including the odd bad line call, especially a big one at a vital time in the semi. He's taken on, and beaten, four seeds, three of them top-10 players: Andy Roddick, Ivan Ljubicic and then Nalbandian.
Physically he looks strong. Sure, he's puffing at the end of some hard points, and appears to be ailing towards the end of long matches, but his weariness vanishes like morning mist as soon as he's up off his seat again.
His second serve needs some work, but there's not a lot of significant weaknesses in his game. And his strengths have outweighed his frailties in the past fortnight. He's been steady as a rock, Mr Cool, playing his game, and picking off opponents by targeting individual weaknesses in them. Against Nalbandian, for example, he hit the long serve, into the body, knowing Nalbandian is uncomfortable with that height. Against Roddick, the big hitter, he really mixed it up.
And, of course, he's had the rousing support of all of Melbourne's Greek community. No one should underestimate the power of the buzz that an atmosphere like that can give you. Baghdatis will feel like a king right now. He's already been offered yachts and goodness knows what else. If he stood for election he'd be prime minister in a flash. He's not just doing this for himself, but he also has absolutely zilch to lose.
So how did he reach this final, and why now? Unknown, underrated, and an underdog. Each of those played a part. Yes, we know he was a good junior, the best in 2003, when he won the junior Australian Open. Yes, we knew he'd been climbing the rankings, to No 54, because he's starting to mature, and become more consistent - a key ingredient in Slam success.
But he's still a novelty for most Tour players. And no one could know that this would be the event where he took his consistency to a new level. His more audacious shots work more often because he's realising exactly when they'll work best, and as importantly, when not.
The magic of sport is its unpredictability, major breakthroughs included. This may or may not be that leap for Baghdatis. I wouldn't make such judgements on one event. But he's earned huge respect, itself another asset for the future.
Federer will need to put him in his place quickly tomorrow, and I believe he will, and win. Federer has all the variety, the cool, the sheer consistency of pure talent that Baghdatis's other opponents did not. Some say Federer has underperformed. I guess by that they mean that every single set in every match has not been jaw-droppingly perfect. I prefer to interpret his "underperforming" as being able to shift through the gears just when he likes, especially when in danger.
I'd settle for underperforming like that! Baghdatis would, too. It could be quite a spectacle.
Unknown, underrated and an underdog. How in the name of the Lord did Marcos Baghdatis, a 20-year-old kid from the tiny nation of Cyprus, manage to reach the final of the Australian Open, where tomorrow he will fight, unseeded, for a Grand Slam title, in only his sixth-ever Slam tournament, against Roger Federer, the best player the planet has seen?
It's the question that's been on the lips of the tennis world since Baghdatis came from two sets down against David Nalbandian on Thursday to win that remarkable five-set semi-final. My answer starts with, but by no means ends with, two words: big balls.
The kid himself said he had no idea how he managed to get back into it against Nalbandian but the fact is, he did. His attitude is great. Mentally he hasn't let big-name opponents or adverse situations unsettle him, including the odd bad line call, especially a big one at a vital time in the semi. He's taken on, and beaten, four seeds, three of them top-10 players: Andy Roddick, Ivan Ljubicic and then Nalbandian.
Physically he looks strong. Sure, he's puffing at the end of some hard points, and appears to be ailing towards the end of long matches, but his weariness vanishes like morning mist as soon as he's up off his seat again.
His second serve needs some work, but there's not a lot of significant weaknesses in his game. And his strengths have outweighed his frailties in the past fortnight. He's been steady as a rock, Mr Cool, playing his game, and picking off opponents by targeting individual weaknesses in them. Against Nalbandian, for example, he hit the long serve, into the body, knowing Nalbandian is uncomfortable with that height. Against Roddick, the big hitter, he really mixed it up.
And, of course, he's had the rousing support of all of Melbourne's Greek community. No one should underestimate the power of the buzz that an atmosphere like that can give you. Baghdatis will feel like a king right now. He's already been offered yachts and goodness knows what else. If he stood for election he'd be prime minister in a flash. He's not just doing this for himself, but he also has absolutely zilch to lose.
So how did he reach this final, and why now? Unknown, underrated, and an underdog. Each of those played a part. Yes, we know he was a good junior, the best in 2003, when he won the junior Australian Open. Yes, we knew he'd been climbing the rankings, to No 54, because he's starting to mature, and become more consistent - a key ingredient in Slam success.
But he's still a novelty for most Tour players. And no one could know that this would be the event where he took his consistency to a new level. His more audacious shots work more often because he's realising exactly when they'll work best, and as importantly, when not.
The magic of sport is its unpredictability, major breakthroughs included. This may or may not be that leap for Baghdatis. I wouldn't make such judgements on one event. But he's earned huge respect, itself another asset for the future.
Federer will need to put him in his place quickly tomorrow, and I believe he will, and win. Federer has all the variety, the cool, the sheer consistency of pure talent that Baghdatis's other opponents did not. Some say Federer has underperformed. I guess by that they mean that every single set in every match has not been jaw-droppingly perfect. I prefer to interpret his "underperforming" as being able to shift through the gears just when he likes, especially when in danger.
I'd settle for underperforming like that! Baghdatis would, too. It could be quite a spectacle.
Tim Tennis
Professional
Well for me this is one of those matches where you wish both guys could win.
You have to think that Roger will win but I would not count Baghdatis out. This kid plays his heart out and as had a couple of days rest. If Baghdatis can get 1 of the first 3 sets I think it is anybodys match. I think there is a lot more pressure on Roger. The last thing Roger wants to do is go 5 sets.
I think it is going to be a great match. I hope so.
You have to think that Roger will win but I would not count Baghdatis out. This kid plays his heart out and as had a couple of days rest. If Baghdatis can get 1 of the first 3 sets I think it is anybodys match. I think there is a lot more pressure on Roger. The last thing Roger wants to do is go 5 sets.
I think it is going to be a great match. I hope so.
Volly master said:
Ivanisevich was unseeded when he won Wimbledon in 2001 (and a wild card too of course) though he obviously had proven himself in the past to be able to compete with the best. Kraijeck was seeded when he beat Sampras in 96 (I think that's who you mean?) Not sure about the AO and USO though - its definitely not common! Would love to see Baghdatis give Federer a run for his money but think it will just be a step too far at this time.
Tennis_Fan_109
New User
Federer will not "DESTROY" Baghdatis, this will be a toughie. I predict with confidence that the winner of the 3rd set will be the one that wins the match. One thing is for sure- Baghdatis will NOT be spent! The people that have been saying this really do not understand the situation. He is only 20 years old, no health problems, has 2 days of rest, and the most important of all he can EAT ENERGY!! Thats right he feeds off the crowd, off a great shot, of winning a tough game, he just sucks it all up. Against Nalby he looked spent so many times, he hit maybe 3-4 walls, but each time he found a new wind and was stronger than before. He might be huffing and puffing but give him a second to breathe and he will fight like a lion again. Also, I think he learnt a very important lesson in the first 1.5 sets vs. Nalby in terms of not letting the opponent take control and run him from side to side every point.
Sure Federer has played him before but I dont think he has figured him out like others say because as Roger admits, he has improved greatly these 2 weeks (and thus since they have played). He has learnt a lot every one of the last games, and his strategy in the final will reflect that. On the other hand Federer is the same guy that Baggy played all 3 times, so their previous meetings I think will actually help B-Diddy (just made that one up, you guys like it?) more than Fed.
That all said, Federer is still the favorite. BUT if B-Diddy wins the third set look for him to make this incredible upset.
Sure Federer has played him before but I dont think he has figured him out like others say because as Roger admits, he has improved greatly these 2 weeks (and thus since they have played). He has learnt a lot every one of the last games, and his strategy in the final will reflect that. On the other hand Federer is the same guy that Baggy played all 3 times, so their previous meetings I think will actually help B-Diddy (just made that one up, you guys like it?) more than Fed.
That all said, Federer is still the favorite. BUT if B-Diddy wins the third set look for him to make this incredible upset.
Federer on the final:
But Federer will not be taking Baghdatis lightly.
"Everybody's talking about the young guns coming up and not really about Marcos," Federer said after his four-set win Friday over Nicolas Kiefer. "Thank God I've played him three times, it makes me relax a little bit.''
Federer saw some parallels between himself and Baghdatis, the 2003 junior world champion.
"I was also No. 1 junior back in 1998 ... it took me same time to get up in rankings," said Federer.
He said he was nervous going into his semifinal, knowing what it meant.
"I just had a sort of strange feeling, not a negative one,'' said Federer. "I knew how close I was to another Grand Slam, and worked so hard to get there. To lose in the semis would be a big disappointment.''
He said he knows Baghdatis has "improved incredibly" in the past two weeks.
"I think we are all surprised he got so far," said Federer. ``He proved us all wrong. He beat quality players and he deserves to be in the final.''
But Federer will not be taking Baghdatis lightly.
"Everybody's talking about the young guns coming up and not really about Marcos," Federer said after his four-set win Friday over Nicolas Kiefer. "Thank God I've played him three times, it makes me relax a little bit.''
Federer saw some parallels between himself and Baghdatis, the 2003 junior world champion.
"I was also No. 1 junior back in 1998 ... it took me same time to get up in rankings," said Federer.
He said he was nervous going into his semifinal, knowing what it meant.
"I just had a sort of strange feeling, not a negative one,'' said Federer. "I knew how close I was to another Grand Slam, and worked so hard to get there. To lose in the semis would be a big disappointment.''
He said he knows Baghdatis has "improved incredibly" in the past two weeks.
"I think we are all surprised he got so far," said Federer. ``He proved us all wrong. He beat quality players and he deserves to be in the final.''
hyperwarrior
Professional
Baghdatis must work hard if he want to win this title. I expect a tough battle but Roger will prevail...
federerforever
Rookie
I am predicting that it will be the toughest Grand Slam final for Federer yet. I think Federer will win in tough four or five sets with at least two tie breaks. Federer has been playing mediocre tennis for his level and I don't see that he can suddenly play at his absolute best to beat Bagdattis in straight sets. Bagdattis would beat both Haas and Davydenko the players Federer struggled against. But as long as Fed wins, that's all that matters.
dirk_diggler
New User
i bet 200 euros on roger in three on bet and win. the 200 won't hurt me if i should really lose cause i won the amount on the matches before
Marius_Hancu
Talk Tennis Guru
I don't see Roger's pre-final interview at the AO site, only Baghdatis'. This means Roger's all business. Roger in 3, needs revenge for last year, IMO.
But this doesn't mean Baghdatis can't win. This is tennis
But this doesn't mean Baghdatis can't win. This is tennis
SteveI
Legend
MagicMT said:
Hey MM,
We both had Fed in 4. I love the "invincible mode" reference. It seems to apply. AA made reference to it at the US open last year.. he could not to a darn thing, only watch and wonder what happened. AA was in control of the match.. and then he wasn't and it was game, set and match..
Regards,
Steve
BiGGieStuFF
Hall of Fame
Is there anyway to check how many bagels a player has given? I swear Federer bagels frequently. Who holds the record for that? That guy is just amazing. He just has the uncanny ability to figure out a player.
Bravo Federer. I'm glad I could witness his greatness.
Bravo Federer. I'm glad I could witness his greatness.
