Letter to DtL readers: I've been Tumblr'ed

Hey peeps!

As you can see I haven't been posting on DtL lately. It's partly because it's the off-season but mostly because I've been spending my time elsewhere (and NO it's not with those sickly beautiful log carrying boys sillies, though that could be lots o' fun.)

I've started a Tumblr called "Richly Deserved" and although it includes some tennis it covers more of my other loves.

Click here to take a peek and/or follow @RichlyDeserved updates on Twitter.

And, don't worry. It doesn't bite. Much.

(UPDATED) PHOTO OP: Sexy Spanish MF's (well, mostly)

"I'm sexy too, no?"

The champion Davis Cup team along with compatriot Tommy Robredo grabbed a gussied up photo op with Spain's Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero and the cup during an official reception at the Moncloa presidential palace in Madrid today.

Oh PM how jelly I am of your position in that photo. I'd gladly be sandwiched between all that pretty chorizo.

So who's bringing the most HAWTNESS here peeps? I, for one, am loving Tommy's suit + scarf moment. But as always, there's too much clothing in the way for my tastes.

UPDATE: Ooh, better pic here including coach Albert Costa and the epically drool-worthy Juan Carlos Ferrero.


[Photo(s): AP]

QUOTE OF THE DAY: JuJu

I want much more emphasis on human relationships. In my first career, I didn't realise what sport can mean to the people. Now I understand better.

My big problem is that I am basically shy. When the spotlight is on me, I crawl into my shell, instead of showing that I can be funny or fun. I'm trying that now. It's my job.

- Justine Henin on her new approach to tennis

Ah, so JuJu finally realized that sports isn't just about the athlete but it's also ENTERTAINMENT.

I guess we should sit back, relax, and get ourselves ready for some serious Belgian LOLs y'all.

[Photo(s): AP]

(UPDATED) PHOTO OP: Raising the cup to victory

"Rafa, let's prepare your shelf for the cup, k?"

A big congrats to the Spanish Armada for defending their Davis Cup championship after defeating the Czech Republic!

Rafael Nadal started things off in spectacular style dismantling Tomas Berdych in the opening rubber. The second rubber saw David Ferrer furiously fight back from a 2-set deficit to upend Radek Stepanek 1-6,  2-6,  6-4,  6-4,  8-6. And the doubles pairing of Feliciano Lopez + Fernando Verdasco clinched an unbeatable 3-0 lead after defeating The Berd + The Worm 7-6(7), 7-5, 6-2. It's the country's fourth title in Davis Cup play.

I'm sure this win will help Rafa + Nando heal the sting of going a combined 0-6 at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals last week. It's always great for the confidence to end the season on such a high note.

I mean, even Rafa's infamous ass-ets seem perkier than usual. DAYUM.

UPDATE: So Spain completed the absolute beatdown of the Czech Republic and went 5-0 with Rafa scoring a 6-3 6-4 win over Jan Hajek and Ferru grabbing a 6-4 6-2 decision over Lukas Dlouhy. Ya think they wanted this DC?


[Photo(s): VamosRafa]

VIDEO VAULT: The gift that keeps on giving (hopefully)

The Spanish national football team has a gift for Fernando Verdasco as he prepares for the Davis Cup final versus the Czech Repubic this weekend (note: Spain is up 1-0 after Rafa s-s-s-spanked Tomas Berdych 7-5, 6-0, 6-2 in the opening rubber.) He may need their super powers if his recent injury issues aren't resolved. Also, there's something going on with his sneaks.

I have to say for a locker room there's a lot clothing being worn here.

*sits very disappointed*

Buh-bye Amelie: Former No.1 announces retirement from tennis

Amelie Mauresmo announced her retirement from professional tennis at a press conference in Issy-Les-Moulineaux today.

The Frenchie former No.1 admitted she had found it difficult to stay motivated as of late, particularly during preparation for this year's U.S. Open:

I don't want to train anymore. I had to make a decision, which became evident in the last few months and weeks. When you grow older, it's more difficult to stay at the top. It's a bit sad, but this is the right decision. I was lucky enough to have an exceptional career and to experience very strong feelings on the court.

It became very hard in build-up to the US Open. If I were able to enter the court, play and shine, of course I could continue, but to achieve this you need to put in such hard work. And I'm not capable of that. I dreamt of this career, I dreamt of winning a Grand Slam title. I lifted trophies in every city in the world and I lived 10 magical and unbelievable years.

In 2004 Amelie became the first Frenchie, man or woman, to grab the top spot in the rankings and held that spot for a total of 39 weeks. Her most successful year, though, came in 2006 when she defeated Justine Henin to win both the Oz Open + Wimbledon titles.

Buh-bye Amelie. Your game, personality and humor will be sorely missed on the WTA tour. If not for JuJu's returnament we'd be left with too many brainless bashers in the ranks. In other words, I wouldn't mind a returnament from you even though I know it's probably not going to happen. Boo.

And, on a side note, I know you didn't like discussing your sexuality publicly but I have to say I commend you for being an out lady baller on the tour. It wasn't the easiest coming out process during your infamous run to the Oz Open final in 1999, but you never let the controversy hold you back or allow others to define your career.

[Photo(s): Reuters]

FASHION FIX: Rafa reveals new DC kicks

Rafael Nadal was spotted with some new Nike Air Courtballistecs for this weekend's big Davis Cup final.

Do you LOVE?

[Photo(s): DavisCup]

GBA Tennis launches first-ever video tennis instructional for iPhone + iPod touch

Neil Parker, who pens the excellent tennis instructional blog GBA Tennis - The Game Based Approach, has created the first beginner video tennis lesson for the iPhone/iPod touch called iTennisPro.

Using the teaching method called 'progressive tennis' the program instructs ballers of all ages on the basics of the game including groundies, volleys, serve, scoring, and even on-court etiquette (and we all know THAT'S needed!)

Other lessons include...

The Grips


How to rally using groundstokes with:

- The Impact Point


- Preparation


- The hitting zone using the wrist

How to volley with:

- A catching feeling


How to start the point using a serve with:

- Preparation


- The impact point


- A throwing feeling


How to keep score

As we all know beginner tennis lessons can become monotonous and frustrating at times. These video lessons demonstrate some fun, unique ways of learning the basics of the game and could give you a way of mixing things up as you develop your game. Plus, Neil's delivery and explanations are clear and easy to understand.

To learn more visit the iTennisPro site by clicking here.

[Photo(s): iTennisPro.net]

Shrieka arrives in Santiago, to play exo against Gisela

Maria Sharapova arrived in Chile for an exhibition against Argentine Gisela Dulko and took time to attend a press conference for a fashion show in Santiago. The 3-time Grand Slammer be showing off some of her designs presumably from her Maria Sharapova for Cole Haan collection.

But seriously, what's going on with Shrieka's outfit here? I mean, her legs are KILLAH but the clothing is an absolute distraction. I'm really hoping this is her "I-just-rolled-off-a-plane-after-a-long-trip-and-didn't-feel-like changing" outfit. We all have them. Don't lie.

*fingers crossed*

More images after the jump...

THE LOW DOWN: R.I.P. TennisWeek.com?

TennisWeek.com is apparently no more.

The IMG-owned website is down today and word has it the company shut it down permanently though no official statement has been released.

Earlier this year the sports marketing giant closed the print version after 35 years and it seems the tough economic climate made the kill complete.

I have to say it's sad to see another staple in the tennis media go down, even though their material wasn't always original. But no hard feelings TW.com - you'll be missed. 

[Photo(s): tennisservedfresh.com]

SIGHTING: Serena's boob

OMFG.

I can't get myself off the floor after falling down LAUGHING MY ARSE OFF at this pic of Serena Williams and her boob's "Great Escape: Barbados Style."

The 11-time Grand Slammer was there with boyfriend Common vacationing while also appearing at the "Tennis Pon De Rock" exo with Caroline Wozniacki.

At least we know how ReRe was able to stay weighted down on that surf board. *still rolling*

[Photo(s): wtawomenstennis]

SIGHTING: Elijah Wood + Dianna Agron hit the (on set) court

Elijah Wood + Glee's Dianna Agron were spotted grabbing a hit on the Long Island set for the upcoming flick The Romantics.

The movie, directed by Galt Niederhoffer, is about seven close friends reunite for the wedding of two of their friends. However, the bride and the maid of honor have had a long rivalry over the groom which causes problems for the group. It's slated for a 2010 release and also stars Katie Holmes, Anna Paquin and Josh Duhamel.

It sure looks like Elijah got some of his skin + style tips from Andy Murray, no?




[Photo(s): Splash News via JustJared.com]

PHOTO OP: Goran shares a smile, Raft shares a little more (thank GAWD)

Goran Ivanisevic + Pat Rafter grabbed a photo op and shared some sexy laughs (Pat's, that is) at the Royal Albert Hall in London. The pair will be playing their first match since the Wimbledon 2001 final, won by Goran, at the AEGON Masters Tennis.

Dayum, Raft still looks UBER hawt. And more so in his undergear. Hit-it-and-run peeps.

*double drools*


(Photo(s): Julian Finney/Getty Images, insidesocal.com)

Was Muzz spending too much time playing with his joystick?

Apparently the Brits are having a field day with all the rumored reasons for the breakup between their boy Andy Murray and his now ex-girlfriend, Kim Sears.

First there was talk of Muzz dating the current Miss Scotland Katharine Brown. NOW, The Telegraph is reporting the breakup was caused by the long hours the 22-year old spent on his PlayStation. No, really. A source close to Kim told UK gossip rag The Sun,

“He would spend all his time glued to them. In the end she just got fed up with it. She wanted more out of the relationship."

Thanks Mysterious Source.

I don't know how much we should read into these rumors. I mean, the Brits do LURVE their gossip, as do I, but they take it to whole other level.

However, if it turns out to be true, I hope PlayStation will keep Muzz warm at night. And support him from the stands.

(Photo: Getty)

(UPDATED) WORLD AIDS DAY 2009: Remembering those who lost their lives

UPDATE: Join Nike's campaign to fight AIDS in Africa via Facebook, Twitter, adding a widget to your site/blog page, or buying red laces. Thanks Miri!

VIDEO VAULT: Hi-flying Rafa for Banesto

Do these new Banesto ads featuring Rafael Nadal capture the Spaniard's energy and athleticism or what? LOVE.



Now taking it down a notch...or five.



(Via NadalNews)

QUOTE OF THE DAY: DELPO

I never beat him on hard court or indoors. He's very fast. He plays like PlayStation. He runs down everything.

- Juan Martin del Potro on the game of WTF champ Nikolay Davydenko.

ROFL. Okay - that is SCARY fast.

[Photo(s): Reuters]

Kolya downs Delpo for WTF title, becomes first Russian to win year-end trophy

Nikolay Davydenko earned the biggest title of his career defeating Juan Martin del Potro 6-3, 6-4 to win the year-end Barclays ATP World Tour Final trophy in London, the Russian EVAH to do so.

It was a career week for the 28-year old who was at his workmanlike best gutting out tough matches against this year's major title holders including Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Delpo today. His only loss came in his opening round robin match at the hands of Novak Djokovic. He earned $1,510,000 for his efforts this week and will replace Andy Roddick at No.6 in the rankings.

"I was [looking at the trophy], until 2008, [there are] so many names there, like Djokovic, Federer, everyone, [Pete] Sampras,” said Davydenko, who was contesting his fifth straight year-end championship. “In 2009, [it says] Davydenko forever on this trophy. I think it's amazing. [In the] history of the [Finals], for my name to be there is something amazing for me."

Huge props to Kolya - what an incredibly impressive effort for the consistently underrated Russian. Could he - dare I say - pull an "Andre Agassi" and hit hyperdrive in the second half of his career (sans the meth + mullets of course)? Clearly he's a hard worker so if he stays healthy and keeps the motivation it's not completely out of the question.


(Photo(s): Getty)

(UPDATED) OFFICIALLY OVAH: Muzz + Kim

Andy Murray + Kim Sears have ended their 4-year relationship.

When asked about the split Leonore Sears, mom to the tennis WAG, confirmed the news saying, "Yes, but I am not going to comment on it."

She reportedly moved out of the home they shared in Surrey and returned to her parent's home. Kim was not in Muzz' baller box in London where he was knocked out of the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals in the round robin portion of the tourney.

Ah, so sad. It'll be strange not seeing her cheering Muzz on in the stands - she was always a presence at his matches. I wonder what caused the breakup? Maybe, like a lot of relationships, it just ran its course.

UPDATE: Has Muzz moved on already? Rumor or reality - you decide. Thanks Djangoo!

QUOTE OF THE DAY: KOLYA

All my family, everybody who supports me, wait for this moment, when I can beat Federer. I was thinking it coming maybe 2010 or '11. But in 2009, end of the season, it's good feeling.

- Nikolay Davydenko on defeating Roger Federer 6-2, 4-6, 7-5 at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals

LOL - "2010 or '11?" Anyway, it took 13 tries but the underrated Kolya finally pulled it off. And after beating Rafa earlier in the week and making his second straight final here the Russian must be feeling pretty good.

Congrats!

(Photo(s): Reuters)

PHOTO OP: Rafa takes a lickin'

Rafael Nadal needed treatment on his lower back during his 7-6(5), 6-3 defeat at the hands Novak Djokovic at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals today. It was the Spaniard's third straight defeat this week, third straight to the Nole dating back to Cincinnati and fourth consecutive loss overall. I can see why he looks in pain.

But it sure seems like the Serb has the right remedy for Rafa's sitch - talk about "having his back." Uber-YUM.


(Photos: Getty, AP)

Letter to DtL readers: Happy Thanksgiving!

Hey guys,

Just a quick note to say I won't be posting today since I'll be celebrating THANKSGIVING.

To those of you enjoying the holiday I wish you a safe and happy one. And to everyone, a big "THANKS!" for reading DtL. I hope you enjoy the coverage as much as I love writing it.

Cheers,

RiCH

PHOTO OP: Talk to the hand 'cause...

"...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)

(UPDATED) PHOTO OP: Who's your number one now?

"Fingers don't lie."

Roger Federer capped off an extraordinary year at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals today securing the year-end No.1 ranking for fifth time after defeating Andy Murray 3-6, 6-3, 6-1 in their round robin match. After Rafael Nadal lost to Robin Soderling yesterday, Fed only needed to win one more match to achieve the feat and he made no mistake today.

“It means a lot to have returned to No. 1 and to finish the year again at No. 1,” said the Swiss. “It was an incredible year for me both on the court and off the court and to be able to break the all-time Grand Slam record and finish the year on top is amazing.”

Fed becomes the only baller besides Ivan Lendl to have held, lost, and then regained the top spot back. He also joins Jimmy Connors + Pete Sampras as the only ones to have finished the year at the top at least five times.

The Swiss maestro can now add the ATP World Tour Champion title to his other incredible achievements this year including the completion of a Career Grand Slam by winning his first Roland Garros crown, breaking the all-time major wins record by grabbing his 15th Slam at Wimbledon and reaching the final of all four Slams this year. Fed also married longtime girlfriend Mirka Vavrinec in April and the couple gave birth to twin mangoes Myla Rose + Charlene Riva in July.

He'll get his chance for revenge when he meets U.S. Open champ Juan Martin del Potro in the final RR match. The Argentine defeated Fed in the final at Flushing Meadows to capture his maiden major.

Well, I guess the big story of the tourney is dead in the water. BUT, the matches have been really good and the energy in the O2 Arena has been great so I'm thinking there's exciting stuff yet to come.

UPDATE: Here's the actual year-end No.1 trophy being presented to Fed today. Much better than a finger. And, like a DtL commenter hysterically said a few weeks back, "Looks like his taking being the ambassador of Lindt quite seriously." No kidding. ROFL


(Photo: Getty, AP)

(UPDATED) PHOTO OP: Nole + Kolya bask in the afterglow, share shirtless MOMA

"Was it good for you, bro?"

Novak Djokovic + Nikolay Davydenko shared a shirtless, and most likely sweaty, MOMA moment at the net after their opening round robin match at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals in London.

The Serb continued his winning ways edging out Kolya 3-6, 6-4, 7-5 and earning his 11th straight win. It was a match full of long, intense rallies but Nole's confidence pushed him past the finish line as the Russian offered up errors in the crucial moments of the final set.

Afterwards the pair met at the net and exchanged shirts to commemorate their battle - and to entertain us of course. I mean, how could you not be? *licks chops*





UPDATE: Looks like the MOMA didn't do much for A-Rod who was sitting in the audience. Damn you Brooklyn.


(Photos: Getty)

(UPDATED) FASHION FIX: NaturAna goes mellow yellow Down Under

Here's the new adidas dress Ana Ivanovic will be wearing to start off her 2010 campaign in Oz.

It's a continuation of the Adilibria line she wore this year and features a drop waist, deeper neckline, close body fit and side pleats. The core yellow dress is made from adidas' trademark ClimaCool moisture management technology which will help keep her body at optimum playing temperature.

Here's a closer look:


I'm loving the yellow color especially against NaturAna's darker skin tones and the blue backdrop of the courts in Oz. It does look like it fits better than anything she wore this year as well.

Her website will be releasing videos of the former No.1 in this dress along with her Roland Garros dress so stay tuned!

UPDATE: Here's NaturAna unveiling both the Oz Open + Roland Garros dresses at a photoshoot in NYC. Thanks Curtis!



(Photos: AnaIvanovic.com, WomensTennisBlog.com)

PHOTO OP: Throwing in the towel (with Body Bonus!)

"Blech."

Well, not quite.

But Rafael Nadal's quest to snatch the year-end No.1 ranking from Roger Federer took a hit today in London.

The 6-time Grand Slammer was sidetracked momentarily losing his opening round robin match in the 'B' Group to Robin Soderling 6-4, 6-4 and racking up his second consecutive loss to the Swede. Sod inflicted Rafa's lone loss at Roland Garros in the fourth round this year, and add to this their overwhelming LURVE for each other and you've got our first bit of WTF drama.

The Spaniard can still make the semifinals and retake the top ranking but his margin for error is THAT much slimmer now.

I know you're probably feeling down RAFANATICS so here's a little Body Bonus to ease your pain. It did wonders for me:


(Photos: Getty)

Nole drops adidas for 10-year deal with Sergio Tacchini

Novak Djokovic will be the newest face of Sergio Tacchini starting in January 2010, leaving longtime sponsor adidas and putting to rest rumors of a switch to K-Swiss.

The Serb announced the brand-spanking new 10-year sponsorship deal with the Italian sports apparel brand this weekend in London where he's seeking to defend his title at the ATP World Tour Finals.

"My own idols Pete Sampras and John McEnroe have won almost all titles... wearing the Sergio Tacchini logo”, said Novak.

“I am pleased to partner with Sergio Tacchini, a strong brand with a true tennis DNA and am honoured to become a part of this legacy."

Nole joins ballers Tommy Robredo, Ivo Karlovic, Victor Hanescu, Olivier Rochus, Steve Darcis, Flavia Pennetta and Sara Errani in the ST stable.

This partnership with a Grand Slam champ and potential World No. 1 is a total coup for Sergio Tacchini and should help their product get global exposure and brand recognition. They make stylish, well-made gear and should be a great fit for the Serb.

Plus, a 10-year sponsorship means Nole will be wearing their duds for what would likely be the remainder of his career - talk about puttin' a ring on it.

(Photo: NovakDjokovic.rs)

PHOTO OP: Masterpiece theater

Anyone else thinking this Barclays ATP World Tour Final will be theater of the highest order (read: EPIC?)

Here's how the boys have been grouped:

Group A
Roger Federer (SUI)
Andy Murray (GBR)
Juan Martin del Potro (ARG)
Fernando Verdasco (ESP)

Group B
Rafael Nadal (ESP)
Novak Djokovic (SRB)
Nikolay Davydenko (RUS)
Robin Soderling (SWE)

Of course the big story here is the down-to-the-wire showdown for the year-end top ranking (and the strangely titled ATP World Tour Champion honors) between Roger Federer + Rafael Nadal.

The Matador trails Fed by 945 points and could usurp the top spot in three ways (via ATP):

1. If Rafa is an undefeated champion at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals (winning all-three round-robin matches, a semi-final and final) he will earn the maximum 1,500 points. If that happens, the Swiss would need to either win all three round-robin matches OR reach the final to beat out Rafa for the 2009 ATP World Tour Champion title.

2. If Rafa goes 2-1 in round-robin play and wins the title he will earn 1,300 points. If that happens, Fed would need to either win two round-robin matches OR win one round-robin match and reach the final to beat out Rafa for the 2009 ATP World Tour Champion title.

3. If Rafa goes 3-0 in round-robin play, wins his semi-final but loses the final he will earn 1,000 points. If that happens, Fed would need only to win one round-robin match to beat out the Spaniard for the 2009 ATP World Tour Champion title.

Novak Djokovic will be a big obstacle in their way. He's been playing like the top baller for a few weeks now capturing Basel, the Paris Masters and defeating Fed + Rafa in consecutive weeks. Andy Murray is looking to put an exclamation point on his best year and remove some of the disappointment of going Slam-less this season.

Juan Martin del Potro hasn't been playing well since shocking Fed to capture his maiden major at Flushing Meadows so he'll be hungry for a strong end to his career season. Last year's finalist, Nikolay Davydenko, and first-timers Fernando Verdasco + Robin Soderling (who got in after and injuryed Andy Roddick pulled out) round out the elite eight.

Click here to visit the official site.

(image via Julian Finney/Getty Images, CARL DE SOUZA/AFP/Getty Images)

PHOTO OP: Right play, wrong time Muzz

A worn down Andy Murray, who finished off James Blake in an epic 3-set second round match ending at almost 2am local time this morning, was knocked out of the Paris Masters by Radek Stepanek 1-6, 6-3, 6-4. It was the Brit baller's first loss in four matches to the crafty Czech.

He follows Roger Federer's shock exit yesterday at the hands of Julien Benneteau, who had his own letdown and was beaten by compatriot Gael Monfils in their match today.

Oh Muzz. We could all see you were tired but is that really a good way of keeping yourself awake? I usually fall asleep afterwards. But that's just me.

(Photo: Getty)

SIGHTING: NaturAna and the Adam Scott Support Tour take Melbourne

"Where's the green? I can't see. Anything."

Ana Ivanovic and her WAG ways were spotted taking part in the Adam Scott Support Tour, this time in Melbourne.

The Aussie is competing at the 2009 Australian Masters being held at the Kingston Heath Golf Club. In October, they traveled to Singapore where Adam was playing in the Barclays Singapore Open.

Not much to say here, actually. I'm sure NaturAna is happy doing what she's doing at the moment - being a good girlfriend. I just hope to see some training shots soon.

(Photo: Getty)