Letter to DtL readers: An update from yours truly

What's up, DtL readers?

I wanted to let you know I'll be back to regular posting once the new tennis season begins. Since my last update, I've been busy working on a portfolio for my work and I really wanted to focus on it. It's taken some time but I'm happy to announce that it's live at RichRodriguezWrites.com. You can find links to my writing and PR work there.

In the meantime, enjoy the Davis Cup final, the off-season, and see you in 2015!

Rich

Ana Ivanovic to Bella magazine: "I don't meet too many guys."

A striking Ana Ivanovic is featured on the cover and in a feature story for the Fall Fashion and Travel issue of Bella magazine. The magazine asked the former top lady baller about dating and relationships.

I would say, yes - there is always time, if you meet the right person. One of the downsides of the job is that I am travelling so much, and I don't have so much time to go out and socialise, as people who have a more traditional job might do, so it's hard. I don't meet too many guys.

Ana was formerly linked to ATP baller Fernando Verdasco and golfer Adam Scott. She was most recently rumored to have dated German footballer Bastian Schweinsteiger.

[Via: Daily Mail UK; Photo(s) credit: Bella NYC Magazine]

HOW NOT TO BE A GRACIOUS LOSER--JUST A LOSER--BY FABIO FOGNINI

Here's a story for all of you up-and-coming ballers out there that I'd like you to hear.

You're a veteran on the ATP tour (Fabio Fognini) and you come up against a wild card ranked 553 in the world (Wang Chuhan), who is playing his first match on said tour in front of his country people in Shanghai. The match also happens to be the first round of a Masters 1000, a pretty big stage. Shockingly, he beats you 7-6 (5), 6-4 and is understandably ecstatic while you're understandably disappointed. So how do you react to this moment?

CHOICE A: Purposefully bump into your conqueror



CHOICE B: Flip off the crowd



CHOICE C: All of the above because I'm a total ass hat.

CHOICE D: None of the above. I'm bummed but he earned it. Kudos!

Sadly, this veteran baller chose C. You would hope these professionals would know how to act because, well, they're professionals. Not this baller. 

The moral of this story? DON'T BE AN ASS HAT KIDS.

[Photo credit: Getty Images]

Maria Sharapova got an upgrade in flight and in print

Remember that time Maria Sharapova eye-spied a fellow passenger reading about her on a flight and tweeted about it? And remember how I was on-the-floor shocked that she, a former world No. 1 and 5-time Grand Slammer, was riding alongside her minions in coach class? Well, the Sugar Queen got an upgrade in more ways than one.

Hey buddy, remember me? I got an upgrade and a front page picture. Miss you xoxo #whatadifferenceaweekmakes pic.twitter.com/Syzn4832FB
— Maria Sharapova (@MariaSharapova) October 6, 2014

Winning big titles makes EVERYTHING POSSIBLE.

QUOTE OF THE DAY: Tomas Berdych

"I just said to my coach now that I probably played over 700 matches in my career, and I met guys like Andre, Roger, all those probably in their best times. But I have never, ever experienced anything like that."

- A stunned Tomas Berdych after his 6-0, 6-2 drubbing at the hands of Novak Djokovic in the China Open final

High praise. The only time they were on the same playing field was right before the first ball was struck. Nole literally raced out to a 6-0, 5-0 lead before finally getting broken by Berd. It was simply an awesome performance against a quality opponent by the 5-time champ, who remains unbeaten in Beijing.

Nole stated earlier in the week that securing the year-end No.1 spot was a big priority for him, and the possibility of achieving it again gives him motivation. No kidding.

[Photo(s) credit: Getty Images]

PHOTO OP: Grigor Dimitrov feeling flexy

Grigor Dimitrov took out Spain's Pablo Andujar 6-4, 6-4 at the China Open and will try become the first baller to defeat Novak Djokovic in Beijing when they meet in the quarterfinals. The Serb is riding a 21-0 streak at the tourney.

Grisha doesn't seem too concerned about the world number one's record:

"[Novak] has always played well here. At the same time I like my chances. I've been practising well. I had a good block before the last bit of the season. In a way I'm excited to just come out there and play that match. Of course... I'm going to give my all." 

I actually give the Bulgarian a chance because I think he may have learned a few things from their semifinal meeting at Wimbledon. In that match, Nole was shaky and Grisha had his chances but let the moment get to him. There should be less pressure here; and the Serb has not been his supremely confident self since that championship run at the All England Club.

The ATP site also posted a Player Profile on Grisha. Check it out here.
 
[Via ATP.com; Photo(s) credit: Emmanuel Wong/Getty Images]

Andy Murray and adidas reportedly set to split at season's end

There's a good chance Andy Murray will be leaving adidas when his contract expires at the end of the season, according to The Telegraph's Simon Briggs:

Andy Murray's long-standing partnership with his clothing sponsor Adidas is unlikely to be renewed at the end of the season, according to sources within the equipment industry, as the Scot goes in search of one last big kit deal to cover the final five years of his career.

Murray, who beat Jerzy Janowicz yesterday in his first match at the China Open, will finish with close to £15 million – including performance-related bonuses – from the five-year contract with Adidas that is due to end in December.

For their next move, though, it seems that Murray’s agents are - eyeing niche brands that would base their strategy around him - and which might even offer him equity in the company, as the American nutrition specialists Fuse Science did last year. The example of Tomas Berdych, the Czech player who broke away from the traditional tennis labels to join high-street retailer H&M, could turn out to be a precedent.

In 2010, Muzz joined the German sports apparel giant after a stint with British fashion label, Fred Perry. Can you imagine the marketing push the company would have made for him last year when he became the first British man since Perry to claim the title at SW19? Anyway, it sounds like Muzz would like to return to a smaller brand where he can be the face. While it was certainly worth the jump to adidas from a financial standpoint, the company never did anything to make him stand out from the rest - no special collections or marketing strategies. He's always looking to do things a little differently (see: the appointment of Amelie Mauresmo as head coach), so it probably didn't sit well with him to be just another baller in their stable.

Any guesses on who his new sponsor will be? I think he'll go towards fashion rather than performance. Maybe a Brit brand such as Topman, French Connection, or Burberry? Ralph Lauren, although not exactly niche, has been involved in tennis for some time and could be looking to take that next step (plus they'd most likely have the funds). Perhaps The Gap or JCrew? Clearly I'm very interested.

[Photo(s) credit: Getty Images]

PHOTO OP: The 2014 China Open Player Party

The China Open Player Party has come a long way. So long traditional garb, hello sometimes questionable fashion choices. But I have to say, for the most part [SPOILER ALERT] these looks aren't screaming, "Wait, what the hell were you, or your stylist, thinking?!"

It's safe to say our ballers have come a long way, too.

THE GUYS

Novak Djokovic. The Serb usually goes for relatively safe, classic looks for these events and this outfit is no exception. First of all, I love the blue, but Nole's bordering ever so slightly on game show host here.

Rafael Nadal. I wasn't kidding when I said they've come a long way, especially Rafa. Back in the day, he would never show up wearing anything that actually fit him well. That's no longer the case. Aside from the slicked back hair, I think he looks quite good here.

Tomas Berdych. I'm not a huge fan of denim made to be distressed. I much prefer either raw denim or denim that has been distressed naturally and over time. In this case, Big Berd's jeans give his look some edge and make it less conservative than Rafa's. As we've seen on-court with his H&M kits, the Czech isn't afraid to be bold.

THE LADIES

 

Serena Williams. She dares to be different and this striking dress is no exception. It's certainly in the theme of the evening. But if ReRe's trying to out-Milos Milos Raonic with her one-sleeve number, SHE WINS.

Ana Ivanovic. I'll keep it short here and say she looks lovely. It feels like, on-court and off, she's coming into her own this year.

 

Caroline Wozniacki. What I just wrote for Ana? Ditto for Woz. Great look.

Simona Halep. If this haircut is a new one, it's fantastic. Plus, the pops of yellow against the simple black dress are just right.

Genie Bouchard. You really can't go wrong with a great pair of jeans, a simple white blouse and black heels, and easy flowing hair. Smart, classic look.

Andrea Petkovic. Head-to-toe black is easy and always looks chic. Petko gives the outfit a little kick with these fantastic shoes.

Heather Watson. Fine, she's still very young as this outfit shows. It's a little casual for this event, in my opinion, but at least she's not trying to look older.

[Photo(s) credit: Getty Images]

Roger Federer is going to be VERY busy in India

Roger Federer needed some help. So he did what any self-respecting, social-media savvy tennis baller does these days who's in a dilemma (let me throw a little alliteration at you). He went straight to his fans. And he has many. Like, more than 2.2 million and growing.

What's the dilemma? As you may have heard, Fed is stepping in for Rafael Nadal in the inaugural International Premier Tennis League, and he'll be heading to Delhi, India, in December to lead the Indian Aces. Here's what he tweeted this past Monday:

I need some help from my supporters in India. I'm only in Delhi for a few days, so can't visit all amazing places that I'd like...
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) September 23, 2014

Maybe you guys could help #PhotoshopRF? Show me where I should visit and I'll retweet the best pics!
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) September 23, 2014

Apparently he got so many stellar submissions that he needed to create a collection of his own. And so did I. Here are some of my faves:

@rogerfederer #PhotoshopRF You could maneuver a coracle in the Hogenekal Falls pic.twitter.com/nBdehF694p
— Darshu Tikle Tukaye (@darshutikle) September 24, 2014

#PhotoshopRF #rogerfederer @rogerfederer Expierencing Indian culture <3 pic.twitter.com/NwKQGVwGUB
— Imperfect_wolf (@Imperfect_wolf) September 24, 2014

@rogerfederer This is how Roger Federer enjoys NAVRATRI @ Gujarat. #PhotoshopRF pic.twitter.com/PVeluokhFl
— Anil Gupta (@anilgupta003) September 24, 2014

@rogerfederer Get "Fed Up" #PhotoshopRF pic.twitter.com/RhOeY0MHmB
— Vijay Menon (@menongitis) September 24, 2014

Omg whoever did this for #PhotoshopRF yesterday,this is epic ;) pic.twitter.com/LeXRvvfeDl
— Yami (@Yamistic) September 24, 2014

You're a very courageous person! #PhotoshopRF @rogerfederer pic.twitter.com/YnNaH1Onuv
— ö.o (@pemberencir) September 25, 2014

@rogerfederer and Mirka in Kerala to resolve the - "Who's turn to do nappies" - debate once and for all! #PhotoshopRF pic.twitter.com/1IRqQ8XjoY
— Subin Jacob (@sozigzag) September 25, 2014

Last. I promise. #PhotoshopRF @rogerfederer pic.twitter.com/NmFeyfVYxE
— Rameez (@Sychlops) September 23, 2014

@rogerfederer In Bollywood Singham Style #PhotoshopRF #singhamreturns #Bollywood pic.twitter.com/BOFQvkiUdq
— Sarang (@sarangsp) September 24, 2014

Maria Sharapova flies coach and tweets about it #reallynotreally

Hey buddy, I'm right behind you... :) pic.twitter.com/deVaMfetzr
— Maria Sharapova (@MariaSharapova) September 25, 2014

Forget the funny-haha, I-saw-you-looking-at-me part of this tweet from Maria Sharapova. Does anyone really believe the Sugar Queen is flying coach? MARIA SHARAPOVA. SHE'S NOT LIKE US. AT ALL. REALLY NOT.

Rafael Nadal: "I feel much better...I'm in good shape."

Rafael Nadal returned to action today after almost three months away to play an exhibition match against Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in Astana, Khazakhstan. He defeated the Frenchie 6-7(2), 6-3, 6-4.

After injuring his right wrist in practice, he skipped the entire North American hard-court season, including the US Open, to rehabilitate it. He hasn't played a competitive match since falling to Australian Nick Kyrgios in the Wimbledon fourth round.

Prior to the match, Rafa and Jo-Willy met with the country's president, Nursultan Nazarbayev, and gave him an autographed tennis racquet case.

"I feel much better...I'm in good shape," said the 14-time Grand Slammer in an interview on-court after the match. "The wrist, I think, starts to be forget. And now I need to take the rhythm again. This takes time. This match today helps me, but I'm going to have a tough comeback for sure in Beijing and Shanghai. But my goal is try to worry as much as possible, practice as much as possible to be ready for what's going on in the end of the season."

Here's video of the on-court interview with Rafa:



Good test for the wrist against one of the heaviest hitters of the ball out there. It's great to hear he's  not so focused on his wrist right now, but on getting in match shape for the remainder of the season. The fall indoor stretch has never been a good one for him historically. But the fact that he's back on the court and healthy is reason enough to be excited.

[Photo(s) credit: inform.kz]

Nike honors Li Na with "Be the Bird that Sticks Out" campaign

Nike has announced a brand campaign to honor Li Na called "Be the Bird that Sticks Out." The image is of a phoenix spreading its wings and it captures "Li’s pioneering spirit of daring to stand out, and encourages young people to have the courage to follow their dreams." She referenced the phrase in the Facebook post announcing her retirement earlier today.

Here's what Nike said about the campaign and its meaning:

The campaign, "Be the Bird that Sticks Out," derives from the Chinese proverb, "The bird that sticks out always gets shot,” a stern reminder to keep in line, follow the rules and be aware of the perils of resisting convention. Li boldly provided an example of someone who stood for what she believed in. She chose her own path outside of the traditional system and soared to a level of success that few Chinese athletes have reached. By following her instincts, Li became one of the best tennis players in the world and forever changed the game in China. Li’s strong will and determination deliver a clear message: History and records are often rewritten by birds that dare to stand out.

It's a beautiful image and tribute. Very fitting for Li. 

[Photo(s) credit: Nike]

[UPDATED] THE LOW DOWN: Li Na to announce her retirement from tennis according to reports

CCTV, the Chinese state-owned news outlet, is reporting that reigning Australian Open champion, Li Na, will announce her retirement according to her agent, Max Eisenbud:

#LiNa, China’s two-time Grand Slam winner, expected to announce #retirement due to injuries, according to her agent pic.twitter.com/3fTFL9hYvO
— CCTVNEWS (@cctvnews) September 18, 2014

Li, who reached a career-high of No. 2 in the rankings, withdrew from all the summer hard-court tourneys, including the US Open, to deal with a recurring knee injury.

If she does retire, it will be unfortunate timing for the WTA. Asia has been a big focus for the women's tour recently, and Li is the region's most recognizable star (and the second highest-earning female athlete in the world behind Maria Sharapova). The season-ending WTA Championships was moved from Turkey to Singapore this year for the first time. Moreover, the inaugural tournament in Li's hometown of Wuhan is set to begin next week (she's still on the competitor's list).

I'll update this post if and when the news is confirmed.

UPDATE: Li Na confirmed the retirement reports in a lengthy and beautifully written post on Facebook. You can read it here. It's a MUST. Maria Sharapova, also represented by Eisenbud, posted a note on her FB page saying: 

A truly respected athlete and person, wishing Li Na much happiness and health in her next chapters of life.

We hear about the injuries and sometimes see them as they happen, but I don't think we ever really know the extent of the pain and suffering some of these athletes endure on a regular basis all in the name of competition and performance. By her own account, she was suffering significantly and more than I even understood.

It makes sense. She has nothing to prove on-court, and off-court she has seen the fruits of her labor born out in front of her eyes. Even in retirement, Li will continue to inspire others in her country and around the world to overcome adversity and achieve their dreams. She is a trailblazer the likes we don't see very often. And it's not just about her tennis; the way she handled herself on-court and in interviews was stellar. Seriously, there's really no one on the WTA tour that can cut up the way Li does. SERIOUSLY.

Thank you, Li Na.

[Photo(s) credit: Getty Images]

PHOTO OP: I'll see your Wheaties box...and raise you Cup Noodles

US Open finalist Kei Nishikori is being honored by Nissin with his likeness on Cup Noodles for being the first man from Asia to reach a major final.

[Via: For the Win, photo: Yoshikazu Tsuno/AFP]

[UPDATED] Nicole Vaidisova posts a win in her return to tennis - is Jennifer Capriati next?

Did anyone else catch the return of Nicole Vaidisova today at the ColemanVision Tennis Championships today?

Yup, she made her official return at the ITF Challenger in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and took on another former up-and-comer (although not as decorated), Sesil Karantantcheva. It’s been almost four-and-a-half years since the former world number seven played a pro match and so much had happened in between, including a marriage and divorce from Radek Stepanek and a couple of shoulder surgeries. But she had been teasing the return for weeks and then spelled it out on her Instagram feed:

Hey everyone! So I guess the news of me playing again in a couple of weeks is no secret i am excited to be competing again,its been a long road to get to this point...This time last year I was recovering from my 2nd shoulder surgery and going through a very personal heartbreak.I will be forever grateful for the unwavering support of my amazing family,friends and medical team to get me where I am now.I dont know how this will play out,but no matter the outcome, I know I will be proud of myself for giving it my all and for the person I have become through all this.Thank you for all the sweet messages and words of encouragment,it means the world to me and I truly appreciate the support I get from all of U

During the match it really didn’t look like much had changed. She still has the big serve and forehand, and did everything she could to run around her backhand and not come to the net. Her temper seemed to be intact as she swiped the court with her racquet and bounced it out of frustration all by the third game of the first set. She was even still working Reebok. Yes, REEBOK. But she regained her composure and took it to Sesil. Vaida was only broken once and managed to close out the match 6-3, 6-4 against the world number 191 with relative ease (there was a double-fault on one of her MPs). All good signs for the Czech lady baller as she continues to rebuild her game and confidence after such a long time away. Or as I said on Twitter:

BABY STEPS NICOLE
— rich rodriguez (@DTL_Rich) September 16, 2014

At least one person got my joke. Sadz. If you’re feeling nostalgic like I was while watching Vaida, check out some of the old posts about her here. Hope she can keep it up.

In other former-top-lady-ballers-on-the-comeback-trail news, it sounds like Jennifer Capriati is actually sniffing out a return of her own. Check out these tweets from the former WTA Penthouse resident:

Was planning on my 10yr tennis come back at this years open the last grandslam match I played.. But it will have to wait 1 more yr 😉 #itson
— Jennifer Capriati (@JenCapriati) September 2, 2014

This dream and desire has been festering inside me for so long. It has never been my destiny to never walk on that court and play again
— Jennifer Capriati (@JenCapriati) September 2, 2014

Miss the sweat and the tan!!! This is going to be fun pic.twitter.com/vxk2VabXmI
— Jennifer Capriati (@JenCapriati) September 2, 2014

Sounds like a return is in the works to me. It must be hard for Jennifer to accept the fact that an injury is what did her career in (like Vaida, Jennifer's shoulder was to blame). But at the age of 38, it’s going to be a lot tougher for her to return than Vaida. Sure, Serena Williams just won her 18th major at the age of almost 33, but she’s in tremendous physical condition, and she has ways of getting through games quickly and saving energy with her serve alone. For Jennifer, it’s more of a grind because her serve is meant as a starting point…not an end.

You could also make a case for her return by looking at the incredible effort by Kimiko Date-Krumm who will be turning 44 at the end of September. While there’s no doubt that the Japanese is an inspiration, she’s not winning major titles, or any titles for that matter. I’m sure the American, with her experience and competitiveness, would want to make an impact at the elite level. But I guess we’ll see. Stay tuned...this could get interesting.

UPDATE: ICYMI: Highlights from Nicole's win over Sesil.


[Photo credit: Getty Images]

VIDEO VAULT: Roger Federer clinches, cries, and takes a ride

This is what happens when you clinch your country's first appearance in the Davis Cup final in 22 years. Or you happen to be Roger Federer. Or both. Weeeeeee!

The Swiss team will hit the road to take on France at home for the Davis Cup crown from November 21st to the 23rd. Find the rest of the results here.

[Via TennisNow.com]

Serves them right: Serena Williams, Marin Cilic, and their US Open titles

It’s great to finally be settling into our new digs in LA! The cross-country road trip to get here was spectacular. If you ever get the chance to do it, I highly recommend taking the trip. There are some really mind-numbing spots along the way (I MEAN ALL THAT CORN THOUGH), but overall it's an unforgettable experience.

The varied landscapes that make up America are truly breathtaking. From lush forests and the Great Plains, to high deserts and bustling metropolises, you really get a new appreciation for the US after a trip like this one. The sunrises and sunsets in the Midwest and Southwest truly left us speechless at times.

While on the road I followed along with the scores as best I could (we didn’t always have great reception) and watched some bits of matches, but not much, when we were able to sit still in front of a TV. I did catch the entirety of both finals, which were, if we’re all being completely honest, DUDS. What stood out to me was how the matches were similar in many ways but with one big difference – Serena Williams was going for her 18th major while Marin Cilic was looking for his first. They even played out the same; both ballers started off nervously, making errors and coming under pressure immediately in their first service games. But the one shot that never left them was the serve. As their serve went, so did their games. Once they found their footing and relaxed, they powered past their stunned opponents and straight to the titles.

ReRe, playing against good friend, Caroline Wozniacki, had all the pressure in the world on her shoulders. It had been a terrible season by her standards, not getting past the quarterfinals at any Slam. Plus, she was trying to tie Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova with her 18th major championship. ReRe came in with confidence having lost only once since Wimbledon, and she proceeded to plow her way through the draw. She never lost more than three games in any set and that trend continued in the final where she overwhelmed Woz from the start to reach another milestone in her career. With this type of form, it's hard not to see her reaching number 19 and then some.

Even though ReRe never gave her a chance in the final, Woz will leave New York knowing her game is better now than when she first made the finals and moved into the WTA Penthouse. Her serve is bigger and she has a more aggressive mindset on her returns. I’m still not convinced she’ll win a major in her career, but at least her game is continuing to evolve. It wouldn’t bother me at all if she proved me wrong.

Marin looked every bit the part of a multi-Slam champ. He was self-possessed and in complete control of his mind and game. After pushing aside Roger Federer in the semifinals, he came out for single-minded and extremely focused for the final. Not a hint of frustration betrayed his steely look. This match, tournament, and history were his for the taking – and he took it out on Kei Nishikori with ruthless abandon.

Whether it was the fatigue from his previous battles, the weight of the occasion, or both, the Japanese was a shadow of the baller who knocked out three top 10 seeds, including world number one Novak Djokovic. Even thought he didn’t walk away with the men’s title, Kei at least proved his body could sustain a few epic matches in succession without falling apart. He will need to figure out how to save some energy by shortening early round matches if he wants to compete for major titles.

[Photo(s) credit: Getty Images]

Letter to DtL readers: On the road this week

We finally embarked on our cross-country trip to our new digs in Los Angeles. I'll miss New York City; it was once a dream of mine to live in the Big Apple and I did. For 16 years. But sometimes life calls for new adventures, and now happens to be one of those times.

Obviously the timing isn't ideal with the US Open starting tomorrow. I won't be posting this week, but I'm hoping to be settled enough to write some post towards the end of the tourney. Fingers crossed. Enjoy the matches and coverage, and I'll see you on the West Side!

[Photo(s) credit: Me, duh]

FASHION FIX: Nike and fragment design introduce Nike Court collection

Nike Tennis and Hiroshi Fujiwara’s fragment design label have collaborated on Nike Court, a new capsule collection debuting today during a pre-US Open event in Tribeca, New York. The streetwear designs are inspired by some of Nike's classic tennis styles with modern updates.

The Herrington Jacket is constructed from lightweight fabric and features white zips, stitched detailing, and a mock neck.

The Polo features blue accents on white cotton, as well as ergonomic seams for ease of movement.

The Tennis Classic features a crisp white leather upper and sole is accented with a contrasting heel patch in either blue suede or grey snakeskin embossed leather, while a perforated Swoosh adds a fresh detail to the minimal sneaker.

The Half-Zip features a zip-off adjustable hood, drawstring hem, and large center pocket. A mesh lining and mock-neck collar offer breathability and lightweight warmth.

Personally, I love this collection. Clean, sleek, classic styles with a streetwise sensibility. Plus, Rafa is in the ad. You really can't go wrong.

All the styles are available at NikeLab.com. 

[Photo(s) credit: Nike Tennis]

VIDEO VAULT: Serena Williams talks and sings while Roger Federer just talks

Serena Williams loves her some karaoke. It's been well-documented, of course. But I still give her props for getting up on stage at the Delta OPEN Mic event last night in front of actual people and doing her rendition of "Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend". Jack Sock, Orange Is The New Black’s Uzo Aduba and Laverne Cox, comedian Kathy Griffin, 30 Rock’s Katrina Bowden, Glee’s Darren Criss, and celebrity fitness trainer Shaun T joined the 17-time Grand Slammer at the party.


Roger Federer sat down with sponsor Wilson to talk about winning Cincinnati, his new racquet, and a little about his pre-match routine which includes not missing the match. His words. Swear.

Will Bethanie Mattek-Sands go all Johnny Weir on Tennis Channel?

Brace yourselves, Tennis Channel viewers. The broadcasting company today announced the addition of Bethanie Mattek-Sands to the on-air coverage team for the US Open starting next week. Yes, that BMS. And this one. And the one above. Not a bad way to spend an injury-induced layoff.

I think it's an absolutely inspired choice by Tennis Channel and I'm harboring very high expectations for her broadcasts:

Dear Bethanie Mattek-Sands: Please go full-on Johnny Weir during your Tennis Channel broadcasts. Because that would be AMAZING.
— rich rodriguez (@DTL_Rich) August 20, 2014

She really needs to Johnny Weir (see the Nick McCarvel-penned definition here) the shit out of her on-air time. Like this:

And this:

And, well, this:

But @4AllSurfaces posed a very interesting question on Twitter:

@NickMcCarvel @DTL_Rich @BMATTEK @JohnnyGWeir but who will be her @taralipinski ?
— Ang (@4AllSurfaces) August 20, 2014

Andy Roddick. No question for me. Why, do you have a better choice?

[Photo(s) credit: BMS - Getty Images]

FASHION FIX: UNIQLO launches 'Match Wear' collection for Djokovic, Nishikori, and Kunieda

UNIQLO just announced the release of the 'Match Wear' collection for their tennis ballers and Global Brand Ambassadors, including Novak Djokovic, Kei Nishikori, and men's wheelchair champion, Shingo Kunieda. Some of these items will be on full display at the US Open beginning next week.

According to the company press release, the match shirt for Nole features an eagle motif (click the image above for a closer look at the motif on his sleeve) – the national bird of both his native Serbia and of the United States – while eagle wings on the back are a nod to his style on the court. Of course, the 7-time Grand Slammer has had a feathered fashion history. While with adidas, he launched a Falcon-themed collection and said at the time:

It’s one of my favorite animals, and I think it describes in some ways my personality as well. I play a pretty aggressive game, and I’m very emotional, and I’m kind of connected to that bird. My grandfather used to call me always when I was younger, ‘falcon, falcon’ – doesn’t make any sense in English, but in our language it does.

It may also have something to do with his love of flying. You can see his full collection here.

For Shingo and Kei, the match wear is designed to look great both on and off the court, featuring red, white, and blue stripes inspired by the American flag, Route 66, blue skies, and the sunset.

Kunieda will sport a V-Neck T-shirt at the US Open, while Nishikori a polo shirt. All the items are available for purchase at UNIQLO stores and online at uniqlo.com. 

[Photo(s) credit: UNIQLO]

Rafael Nadal officially withdraws from the US Open due to wrist injury

Today Rafael Nadal officially withdrew from the US Open with the right wrist injury he sustained in practice at the end of July. He made the announcement via his Facebook page:

I am very sorry to announce I won’t be able to play at this year’s US Open a tournament on which I’ve played 3 consecutive finals in my last participations. I am sure you understand that it is a very tough moment for me since it is a tournament I love and where I have great memories from fans, the night matches, so many things… Not much more I can do right now, other than accept the situation and, as always in my case, work hard in order to be able to compete at the highest level once I am back.

Siento anunciar que no podré participar en el US Open, torneo en el que en los últimos años he tenido muy buenos resultados. Entenderéis que es un momento duro para mi porque es un torneo que me encanta y en el que tengo muy buenos recuerdos, de los fans, de los partidos nocturnos, de tantas cosas. No me queda otra que aceptar que no puedo competir este año y como siempre trabajar para que cuando vuelva esté preparado de la mejor manera para competir.

Roger Federer, who won the Cincinnati Masters over the weekend, will take over as the second seed. Here's the potential list of the men's top eight seeds: 1. Novak Djokovic 2. Federer 3. Stan Wawrinka 4. David Ferrer 5. Milos Raonic 6. Tomas Berdych 7. Grigor Dimitrov 8. Andy Murray

It's never good news when a top baller withdraws from a major, especially when he's the defending champion. He had such a sensational season last year after dealing with another injury-induced absence from the ATP tour. Let's hope Rafa's recovery is swift and he's back in action soon.

[Photo(s) credit: Getty Images]

FASHION FIX: Nike US Open looks for Serena, Sharapova, and Azarenka

Along with the duds Nike unveiled for their boys, the sportswear giant released images and information on what their lady ballers will be wearing at the US Open. It seems like they're trying to go for some eye-catching, chatter-inducing styles for Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova, and Victoria Azarenka this year. If that's the case, then it's working.

Yes, you're looking at leopard print for the Serena Dress, the choice for her day matches. They've been teasing the print during the hard-court tune-ups but in a tank-top version. I didn't mind it so much as a one piece of a total kit, but as an entire dress and in THAT color? Hmmmm.

We all know Maria likes to push the on-court fashion envelope from time to time. See Exhibits A, B, and C. I could go on and on but I'll just stop there. She started teasing the idea of making the biker shorts a more prominent part of her kit during her championship run at Roland Garros this year. You could tell the dress' hemline was taken up so they would show better. The Maria Day Tunic takes it to the extreme, ditching the dress style completely for a tunic. Usually, tunics are a bit more roomy to give the silhouette volume on top paired with a slim look on the bottom. Because the top of this kit is skin tight for performance purposes, the Russian just looks like she decided to wear an apron to the court. Perhaps Forbes' highest-paid female athlete on the planet will be taking drink orders on the changeovers.

I won't go too much into Vika's US Open kit because it's very similar to the one she wore in Stanford. The only difference in this particular image, and it's a major one for me, is that they've dropped the MAGICAL SHORTS for the Printed Pleated Woven Skirt. I much prefer the shorts Vika's wearing in the top photo of this post; they've become her trademark. Hopefully she'll bust them out and not this skirt (although on its own I like it).

Here are the duds Maria (left) and ReRe (right) will be wearing for their night matches. Unfortunately, from what I can tell, there's nothing shiny, shimmery, or eye-catching here. Too bad. These kits really could have used some pops of color or something to make them special. I mean, they are for the US Open night matches.

[Photo(s) credit: Nike]

FASHION FIX: Nike US Open looks for Nadal, Federer, and Dimitrov

The season's final major, the US Open, is less than two weeks away and Nike just officially released the duds for their top ballers. Here's a run down of what their boys will be wearing, including Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, and Grigor Dimitrov.

The status of Rafa and the defense of his title at Flushing Meadows is still up in the air (we should all reportedly know something by end of week) but what he'll be working isn't anymore. There were rumors about the Spaniard going back to sleeveless a while ago and I had a few things to say and so did others (see comments). Well, it's confirmed #TeamSleeveless. He'll be working the Advantage Premier Rafa Sleeveless, classic Premier Rafa Jacket, the Premier Gladiator Shorts, and the Lunar Ballistec. I'm really loving the varsity-style Premiere Rafa Jacket. Must. Purch.

Fed will be going for his sixth US Open title while wearing the Nike Advantage Premier RF Polo, Nike Premier RF Sweater, Nike Gladiator Premier Shorts and the Nike Zoom Vapor 9.5 Tour. This color combo is much better than the green-on-green polo and grey shorts he's been wearing during the hard-court swing. The blue contrast gives the polo some pop.

After reaching his first major semifinal at Wimbledon, Grisha will look to go a couple of steps further in his Advantage Polo, Nike Freestyle Short, and Nike Sphere Tennis Jacket. I've been a fan of how they've outfitted Grisha this season, especially the Touch Stripe Tennis Henleys he wore in the spring. You could say I'm a sucker for stripes. But I'm going to take a wait-and-see approach on this polo with the mismatched sleeves. It's fun and a bit off-beat. The Bulgarian just might be able to pull it off. I wonder if Maria Sharapova had to sign off on this look.

Here are the looks for Federer's and Nadal's night matches. They're dark. Because night.

[Photo(s) credit: Nike]