Posted by Dave: Ha! What fun to wake up to the news that Nishikori survived a five-setter against Tsonga and that Serena fell in straight sets to Makarova. I had texted Bess from the comfort of my couch last night, as I watched the early parts of both matches, making both of those predictions before I called it an early night.(c) 2011 Paul Crock/Getty Images
It was also no surprise that Serena made the loss all about herself, rather than Makarova's aggressiveness and control. Serena: "I know that I can play a hundred times better than I did this whole tournament." Perhaps so, but next time you could also admit that your opponent simply played better.
Nishikori should do fine against Murray. It may be a battle, but I think Nishikori will rise to the occasion. He looked strong and steady enough, at least in what little I saw of his match last night.
And the women's quarters should be fun! Aside from Errani (who?), the rest are either proven champions or rising stars. Expect some hard-hitting matches with good doses of drama.
Now if I can just stay awake a little later each night this week ...
Two things, Dave. 1. I thought I saw part of the press conference where Serena actually did acknowledge that Makarova played really well. I remember, because it surprised me to hear that from her. 2. I learned via Twitter that Nishikori spent much of the off-season (such as there is one) at the Drake Hotel (or Hotel Drake?) in Chicago. Clearly you should have been stalking him!
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