"...this Swede ain't listening, y'all." Robin Soderling entered the Barclays World Tour Final as a replacement to an injured Andy Roddick in the B Group and has made GREAT on his opportunity.
He disposed of Rafael Nadal on Monday and today he ended Novak Djokovic's 11-match win streak with a 7-6 (5), 6-1 decision. He becomes the first baller to reach the semifinal stage at the prestigious tourney and the only one not to lose a set. Gah!
The Roland Garros finalist played a tactically brilliant match pummeling Nole's usually lethal backhand side and then going after his weaker forehand. The Serb's slice strategy seemed suspect, giving Sod the time to set up his attacking shots. Seriously, why would you send over slice after slice when your DHBH is one of the best, if not the best, in the world? Plus, it forced the defending champ out of his rhythm which infected the rest of his game like a virus. The final set saw an uber-confident Sod take it full force to his ever-increasingly fatigued and frustrated opponent.
We all know the Swede isn't the most liked baller in the locker room or with fans and he seems to relish that role, playing this week as if he has something to prove on an indoor surface he should excel on. Sod also seems to be walking around with a carefree, nothing-to-lose attitude since he wasn't supposed to play anyway.
And you know what? That makes him the most dangerous of 'em all.
(Photos: Getty)
Oh no Djoko!
ReplyDeleteNovak threw away the match in the second set, it was hard to watch, it was almost as if he didn't care anymore, hardly moving or going for the ball at all. Disappointing after such a good first set. Deserved win for Sod, as little as I like him. :(
way to go SOD!!!
ReplyDeleteStrategic tank from Djok to save energy. Forget trying for a second and third set. He will try to beat Rafa and Sod has an excellent record against Davy.
ReplyDeleteWhy isn't Soderling liked in the lockerroom? Or by fans for that matter? I don't see anything wrong with him.
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