Since Roger's going to be playing on grass for the first time this year, I think the video above is a great way to look forward to it. What's not to like? Probably my favourite online tennis video, it features the great Rod Laver playing against Tony Roche, former coach of Roger Federer, at the 1969 Australian Open semi-final.
I understand that given the kind of tennis we see today, the short points and the lack of baseline rallies might initially be difficult to appreciate, but eventually, it isn't too hard to see the genius. Tony Roche's split-step and backhand volley are probably the most graceful in the history of the game, and Laver's all-court game is simply a marvel to watch. Add to that the fact that Roche hits one of the best lobs I've ever seen in this match, and you've got a video with great repeat value, and a must see for fans of the all-court and transition game.
Enjoy. Looking forward to the Wimbledon 2011 draw.
Congratulations, RR and thanks for starting this blog. I am excited about your commentary on Wimbledon...by the way, Isner and Mahut face off against each other. Again.
ReplyDeleteCat Lady
You're welcome Cat Lady. :-)
ReplyDeleteHaven't checked out the draw. Will go through it and put up thoughts soon. Thanks for the heads up on the Isner-Mahut match.
Thank you very much for sharing your favourite online tennis video. What a superb match! They are magnificient. I'd like to repeat some words about them from tennisfame.com:
ReplyDeleteon Tony Roche: "His backhand volley-regarded by many authorities as the best ever-was taken right out of a textbook." http://www.tennisfame.com/hall-of-famers/tony-roche
on Rod Laver: "Laver with the immense forearm was remarkably modest for someone of his stature, winning and losing with equanimity, setting the gold standard for tennis over and over again."
http://www.tennisfame.com/hall-of-famers/rod-laver
Thanks always for your loves.