Top Ten Male Australian Open Tennis Players

Australian Open is one of the four Grand Slam tournaments in tennis. The first Grand Slam tournament of a calendar year, Australian Open has a history of over hundred years as it started in 1905. Until 1987, the tournament was held on grass court, which was replaced by hard court in the following year. Today, Australian Open is one of most popular sporting events in the world in terms of television viewers. In 2010, the tournament drew 653,860 attendances, which is around 50,000 more than what turned up the previous year.

Here, I have made a list of top ten best singles male tennis players in the history of Australian Open. So, while making the list, I mainly considered players’ performances and records in the singles event of Australian Open. I hope you will enjoy the list, but you can let us know your choices in the comment section.

Roy Emerson

One of the greatest male tennis players of all time, Roy Emerson won 6 our of his 12 Grand Slam titles in Australian Open, a record for Australian Open tournament. Five out of his six Australian Open titles came in successive years, starting from 1963 to 1967. His 12 career Grand Slam titles was the highest for a male tennis players at the time of his retirement, which was so far surpassed by only two players: Roger Federer and Pete Sampras.

Besides his tremendous success in Australian Open, Roy Emerson became the first male tennis player to win all four Grand Slam titles at least twice during his career, and was the first male to win all the Grand Slam titles in both singles and doubles events.

Roger Federer

Many believe that Roger Federer is the all-time greatest male tennis player in the history. The Swiss tennis maestro is currently the most successful male tennis player of Grand Slam with a record 16 titles to his possession. He has won Australian Open 4 times in between 2004 and 2010. Some of you may consider him above Emerson due to the fact that all his Australian Open titles came in Open era.

Federer is just one of the seven male tennis players who have completed career Grand Slam. Moreover, he also holds the record for remaining world no. 1 in ATP rankings for 237 consecutive weeks.

Andre Agassi

Another great of Open era, Andre Agassi also won 4 Australian Open titles during his career. Well-known for his return of serve and baseline game, the American made Australian Open his favorite Grand Slam tournament as he won half of his total career Grand Slam titles in Australian Open. Alike Emerson and Federer, he also accomplished a career Grand Slam.

Unlike many players, Andre Agassi was a multi-surface specialist as he won titles on all surfaces including hard, clay and grass. The former world no. 1 was very popular throughout his career not only for his success on the court, but also his effervescent personality.

Ken Rosewall

Kenneth Robert Rosewall, popularly known as Ken Rosewall, is another Australian great of tennis. The eight-time Grand Slam winner, Rosewall was among the first tennis stars in the post World War II era. He also achieved 4 Australian Open titles during his career and the 16-year gap between his second and third Australian Open title is one of the longest in the history of the tournament.

Image source: australianopen.com

During his illustrious career, Rosewall also won French Open and US Open titles, but he could never win Wimbledon, despite his four appearances in the final of this tournament. His contribution to tennis in the post-war era helped develop the game and reach where it stands today.

Jack Crawford

One of the early greats of tennis, Jack Crawford won 6 Grand Slam titles of which 4 came in Australian Open. The Australian tennis star was one of the dominant players of 1930’s. He came agonizingly close to winning all four Grand Slam titles in a calendar year in 1933 when he won Australian, French and Wimbledon, but he lost to Fred Perry in a five-set classic final in the US Open.

Image source: tennis.com.au

Besides his success in the singles, Crawford also won 6 doubles and 5 mixed-doubles Grand Slam titles during his glorious career, including 3 doubles and 2 mixed-doubles titles in Australian Open. The former world no. 1 was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1979.

Rod Laver

The Australian great could have easily ended up in the top three or four, if it was a list of all time greatest male tennis players. Rod Laver was undoubtedly the best male tennis player of 1960’s, a decade during which he won all of his 11 Grand Slam titles including 3 in Australian Open and remained world no. 1 for seven years.

Image source: sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Rod Laver holds many records of tennis. He is the only tennis player in the history who have won all four Grand Slam tournaments in a calendar year, first as an amateur in 1962 and then in 1969 during the Open era. Today, he is just one of the three tennis players (including both male and female) who won all four Grand Slam singles titles twice. Laver was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1981.

Mats Wilander

The seven-time Grand Slam winner, Mats Wilander was one of the most dominant male tennis players of 1980’s. His 3 titles in Australian Open easily earned him a place in this list. Through he could not accomplish a career Grand Slam due to his unsuccessful campaigns in Wimbledon, no one can doubt about his class and greatness. Interestingly, his only Grand Slam title in doubles came in Wimbledon.

Image source: Guardian

The Swedish tennis star won all the Grand Slam singles titles, except Wimbledon, in 1988. His first two Australian Open titles came when the tournament was played on grass courts, and thus, he became one of only five male players to win Grand Slam singles titles in grass, hard and clay courts. By the time he turned 20, Mats Wilander had already achieved 4 Grand Slam titles, a record that still stands.

Adrian Quist

Though Adrian Quist is now considered to be one of the greatest doubles players of all time, the Australian also achieved considerable success in Australian Open singles. He secured all of his 3 Grand Slam singles titles in Australian Open in between 1936 and 1948. Besides, Quist also won 10 doubles titles in Australian Open, all of whom coming in ten successive tournaments.

Image source: Wikipedia

Known for his superb backhand and classical forehand, Adrian Quist won 14 doubles Grand Slam titles during his career on his way to completing career Grand Slam in doubles.

Jim Courier

The four-time Grand Slam singles winner, Jim Courier bagged 2 Australian Open titles during his career. The former world no. 1 defeated Stefan Edberg in the 1992 Australian Open final, before defending it successfully against the same opponent the following year.

Image source: Tennis.com

The American still holds the record for being the youngest male tennis player to reach the final of all four Grand Slam tournaments when he was 22 years and 11 months old. Courier was also the runner-up of 1991 US Open and 1993 Wimbledon tournaments.

James Anderson

Anderson is one of the two players, placed in this list, who did not win any Grand Slam singles title, except Australian Open, during their career. His three Australian Open titles came in 1922, 1924 and 1925. The Australian also won the Wimbledon doubles title in 1922, his only success in Grand Slam doubles.

Image source: Wikipedia

Some of you may not agree with his inclusion in this list, but considering his success in Australian Open, James Anderson deserves a spot among the top ten all time best of the tournament.

Some other great players who could make it to the list: Boris Becker, Ashley Cooper, Stefan Edberg, John Bromwich, John Newcombe, Pete Sampras, Rodney Heath, Johan Kriek and Ivan Lendl.

Novak Djokovic Wins Australian Open 2008 Title

Novak Djokovic has claimed his first grand slam title in his career after a hard-fought 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 victory over Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. No doubt, it is a memorable night for the third seed Serbian, who had only one grand slam final appearance before Australian Open 2008. However, the victory did not come easily for Djokovic as Jo-Wilfried Tsonga started the match in style winning the first set 6-4.

After the first set, there were many who started to prepare for another magic from Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, who earlier defeated Andy Murray, the ninth seed, and Rafael Nadal, the second seed, in his way to the final. However, Novak Djokovic bounced back and proved his worth once again. Djokovic won the next two sets with sheer dominance, though Tsonga tried his best and posed some threat for the Serbian.

Djokovic faced a real challenge in the fourth set that he had to win in tie-breaker. Tsonga played very well in the set going hand in hand with Djokovic. Neither of them could break serve in the set and eventually it went to tie breaker to be decided. However, Tsonga’s all resistance fall down in the tie-breaker as Novak Djokovic sealed the match and made it a special day in his life.

The tournament has come as a breakthrough for Tsonga, who started the tournament as world no. 38 and there were hardly any one who could even think off Tsonga would be one of the finalists before the Australian Open 2008 kicked off. Australian Open 2008 now deserves a place in the history as a tournament where the dominance of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal ended and it introduced two finalists who had not won any grand slam title before the tournament.

Novak Djokovic and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga: Who will Win?

To get live score of Novak Djokovic vs Jo-Wilfried Tsonga match, visit this link:

Novak Djokovic vs Jo-Wilfried Tsonga: Live Score and Updates

http://techblogbiz.blogspot.com/2008/01/novak-djokovic-vs-jo-wilfried-tsonga_27.html

Novak Djokovic and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga will take on each other in the final of Australian Open 2008. Ahead of the men’s final, set to be held on Sunday, it has already been confirmed that someone is going to win his first grand slam title in Australian Open 2008 with the fact that neither of them has won any grand slam title so far in their career. So, it is going to be a massive final for both of them.

There was hardly anyone who could even think of Jo-Wilfried Tsonga as the finalist of Australian Open 2008 before the tournament kicked off. Who could even dare to say that Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal would be out of the tournament before final? The tournament has been full of upsets and has introduced some new stars of tennis world. Jo-Wilfired Tsonga is one of them.

It is now obvious that both the players are eyeing on their first grand slam titles. For Tsonga, this is going to be the first grand slam final as well. In fact, he is the first play after Gustavo Kuerten to reach the first ATP final in a grand slam tournament. It is really something special for someone to get in to the final of grand slam tournament as world no. 38 in the ranking.

When Djokovic first defeated Roger Federer last year in a tournament, it was thought that the Serbian is going to emerge as the big threat for both Federer and Nadal. However, Djokovic failed to win any grand slam title last year, despite reaching the final of U.S. Open last year. However, the Serbian could get into the top five of the ranking last year. Now, it seems that Novak Djokovic has become one of the strong challengers of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal after showing impressive performance this year.

Actually, the way Djokovic and Tsonga ousted the top two of the ranking indicates something bright of future. I think, it has already been certain that Djokovic and Tsonga are coming up next to succeed Federer and Nadal. I do not think that Nadal was in great form in the tournament; however, Federer was in good from though his form proved less as he had to face a flawless Djokovic.

Now, ahead of the final, I think, Djokovic is favorite to win the title. However, it does not mean that Tsonga has no chance in the match. Djokovic looks very powerful and mentally strong against Federer. His ground shots, serves were impressive. Tsonga, on the other hand, is very much aggressive and certainly, he is now full of rhythm. It is also true that, if Djokovic thinks that he is going to get over the French easily, then he is going to make a big mistake. Jo-Wilfried Tsonga will try his best to resist the Serbian in order to win the title. As both of them are yet to taste their first grand slam success then they will certainly put on their best effort to become the champion of Australian Open 2008 tournament.

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Timing and Schedule of Maria Sharapova vs Ana Ivanovic Final of Australian Open 2008

The final of Women’s singles of Australian Open 2008 is going to be held today. Maria Sharapova and Ana Ivanovic are gearing up to win the first grand slam title of the year and are now taking their last minute preparation. Maria Sharapova, the fifth seed, made it to the final after clinching a superb victory over Jelena Jankovic in the semi final, while Ana Ivanovic came though a fighting match against Daniela Hantuchova in the semi final. The Serbian, Ana Ivanovic has been undergoing an improvement since last year when she reached her first grand slam final in French Open. Maria Sharapova got over her shoulder injury and has come back in the court as stronger a player she was in the past, as the Russian has outclassed her opponents in Australian Open 2008 in style so far. I know that there are many of you who are interested to know the timing of the match. Here, I am giving the timing of the match:

Date: 26 January, Saturday

Venue: Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Park

Local Time (Melbourne): 1:30PM

GMT: 2:30 AM

Indian Time: 8:00 AM

If you are interested to get the match time in your local time then you should click here.

The final between Maria Sharapova and Ana Ivanovic is going to be one of the most glamorous finals of grand slam tournaments in tennis. Both of them are also in their prime form. So, you can also expect a great match today. Now, let us see if Maria Sharapova and Ana Ivanovic can appear with the form they have showed in the previous round matches in the tournament.

Who do you think is going to be the champion of Australian Open 2008?

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Novak Djokovic vs Jo-Wilfried Tsonga: Final of Australian Open 2008

To get live score of Novak Djokovic vs Jo-Wilfried Tsonga match, visit this link:

Novak Djokovic vs Jo-Wilfried Tsonga: Live Score and Updates

http://techblogbiz.blogspot.com/2008/01/novak-djokovic-vs-jo-wilfried-tsonga_27.html

After a long time, tennis world is going to a grand slam men’s final without Roger Federer in the Australian Open 2008 men’s singles final. In the last few years, it became a rule that Federer was there whenever it came to a grand slam final. However, the Serbian Novak Djokovic was confident to present a grand slam final without Roger Federer. Rafael Nadal was earlier crushed out of tournament being defeated to unseeded Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the first semi final of Australian Open.

Now, Novak Djokovic vs Jo-Wilfried Tsonga final is the center of all attention in the tennis world along with women’s final between Maria Sharapova vs Ana Ivanovic.. Among the four finalists only Maria Sharapova has grand slam title in singles. So, it seems that Australian Open 2008 will be remembered for introducing some of the starlets of the tennis world.

Novak Djokovic will definitely be considered as hot favorite against Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the final of the tournament. The third seed is now, for sure, flying in full swing after the breakthrough victory against Roger Federer. Djokovic was the runner up of U.S. Open 2008, which was the first ever grand slam tournament for the Serbian. Actually, it was really very important for Djokovic to prove his worth and he could not find any bigger stage to show what he has in him or what he deserves. In the post-match reaction, Novak Djokovic seemed to be one of the happiest men in the world.

Times Online reported:

"It's amazing, an indescribable feeling to beat the No1 player of the world, probably one of the best players this sport has ever had, in straight sets," Djokovic said.

"I'm very, very proud of myself. I was feeling in control from the first moment and I tried to keep positive thoughts in my head all the time and not to have so many ups and downs in my game, which I did in our past matches.

"I'm just so amazed at how well I coped with the pressure, in the most important moments I played my best tennis."

While Djokovic is favorite to most of the people, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga must be inspired to make his presence felt in the final, what he has been doing in all previous round matches. He has become the first person after Kuerten to reach the first ATP final in a grand slam tournament. Jo-Wilfried Tsonga started Australian Open 2008 as the world no. 38 in the ranking.

So, it is easily understandable that he is now in a dream run which he started beating ninth seed Andy Murray in the first round of the tournament. After defeating world no. 2 Rafael Nadal in three-set match in semi final, he revealed his

Canada.com reported:

"Today I played the match that everyone dreams of all their life," said Tsonga, who even dwarfed Nadal's considerable presence in the interview room in his tight, fitted T-shirt, bulging biceps, huge right forearm, million-dollar smile and diamond stud earrings.

"The moment when you feel you just can't miss, you put more energy into the ball, more power. And I still wasn't making mistakes, so I hit even harder," he said. "I sort of sensed he was thinking,"Who is this guy who's sending me all this stuff from everywhere on the court?

"Tonight I really felt untouchable," he said.

Tsonga made himself untouchable to everyone whoever he faced this tournament so far. He has not left any stone unturned to show his skill and talent in Australian Open 2008. With his similarity with Muhammad Ali, he was called Muhammad Ali of tennis. Novak Djokovic must have the better performance in his professional career than Tsonga. However, the way this French has been playing seems something special. So, Djokovic can not expect any less resistance from Tsonga than what he faced against Federer.

I think, Djokovic and Tsonga have already brought out a huge change in men’s tennis with their performance in Australian Open 2008. People were used to see Federer-Nadal final. Now, after blowing off the no.1 and 2, it has been the responsibility of Djokovic and Tsonga to present with a classic final of dramatic Australian Open 2008 tournament.

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Roger Federer vs Novak Djokovic: Live Score and Updates

Novak Djokovic has won the match by 7-5, 6-3, 7-6 (7-5)

With this victory, Novak Djokovic has already entered into the history for ending Roger Federer’s 10 consecutive grand slam finals since he failed to make it to the final in French Open 2005 after falling to Rafael Nadal in the semi final. Novak Djokovic projected a famous victory over world no. 1 Roger Federer with showing phenomenal performance.

To tell the truth, Roger Federer also played well. However, Novak Djokovic was outstanding throughout the match. Federer started the match well and was ahead of Djokovic in the first set. However, Djokovic sealed the first set winning the last three games. In the second set, Djokovic dominated to take the score 5-0 with two break points, before Federer went on to win three games in a row. However, it was not enough to resist the Serbian as he bagged the second set playing an ace. The third was much closer as Federer tried his best to take the match in the fourth round. The Swiss missed a set point which cost him most as Djokovic took it to the tie-break, where the world no. 3 was claimed the set and booked his final berth.

Djokovic will face Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the final. Both of them could not win any grand slam tournament in their career. So, it is expected to be an interesting match as they will try their best to win their career first grand slam title.

Related Article:
Telegraph

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Roger Federer vs Novak Djokovic: Semi Final of Australian Open 2008

For the score of Roger Federer vs Novak Djokovic match, visit this link:

http://techblogbiz.blogspot.com/2008/01/roger-federer-vs-novak-djokovic-live.html

Roger Federer is going to take on third seed Novak Djokovic in today’s semi final of Australian Open 2008. The match has already made headlines many times and is now the center of all attention. With Rafael Nadal’s crushing out of the tournament yesterday being defeated to French unseeded Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, who has continued his dream run in the tournament reaching the final of the tournament.

Roger Federer defeated American James Blake in the quarter final in straight-sets, while Djokovic outperform Spaniard David Ferrer in the quarter final to set up his seventh match against Federer. Roger Federer is now in his quest to win his 13^th grand slam title in the tournament, which would move within one of Pete Sampras’s highest 14 grand slam titles.

The Serbian, Novak Djokovic has already proved himself as a threat to Federer-Nadal duopoly in the tennis world. Winning three grand slam titles per year has become a rule to Federer, while wining the French Open title has become a fashion to Nadal for the last few years. Novak Djokovic’s intervene has made it difficult for both Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

Ahead of the match against Novak Djokovic, World no. 1 Federer must put his every effort to come through all the obstacles to come by from the Serbian. Federer has said that he is not interested to concentrate on anybody else. Rather, Federer wants to put on all of his focus in his game. He has also expressed that it will be interesting to see who chooses the right tactics.

Herald Sun reported:

"I usually concentrate on my own game. That's what has happened over the last few years," Federer said.

"If I need to adjust something, I do that during the match to play more aggressive or more defensive, playing counter-punching. You can always decide during the match.

"I used to concentrate much more on my opponent when I was younger. Where does he serve, what is his better wing? Right now it's all automatic.

"It's going to be a matter of who's going to come out of the blocks better and, after that, who's going to come back on the other guy. It's going to be interesting to see who chooses the right tactics," Federer said.

It is very natural that a player like Federer does not need to look to anybody else as far as his skill is concerned. He just needs to stick to his own game and play his natural game which has proven too much for his opponents. However, Novak Djokovic, to me, is someone different who Federer might need to think about. In fact, Federer suffered a defeat to the Serbian last year.

Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic faced each other six times in the past with Federer winning five times including the last year’s U.S. Open final. Novak Djokovic has had a breakthrough season in last year with finishing the year as world no. 3 in the raking. Novak Djokovic has already posed a threat saying that he can win the match.

The Globe and Mate reported:

"He's done a phenomenal job," Federer said yesterday. "Four Grand Slam semi-finals, I was never close to that at his age."

"They say the year after the breakthrough [going from No. 16 to No. 3 in 2007] is the most difficult but I'm feeling really, really good," he said. "I worked on my skills the past couple of weeks and changed my [racquet] strings. I'm playing with a lot of confidence."

"He has been the No. 1 player for a while," Djokovic said of Federer this week. "Players have started playing in a different way against him, with more belief they can win. It's a good thing for all of us."

Djokovic is one of the youngsters who are though to be the future great of tennis. That is what you can realize in his speech as well, finding enough maturity. There is no doubt; Roger Federer would be considered as favorite for the match. The achievements he received in his illustrious career would convince anybody to bet on him. However, I think, Novak Djokovic is full of potential and what makes me impressed about him is that he has been improving in every match. So, I would not be surprised to see if Novak Djokovic plays in the final of Australian Open 2008 tournament.

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Maria Sharapova vs Ana Ivanovic: Who will Win?

Maria Sharapova and Ana Ivanovic are the two finalists of Australian Open 2008. Sharapova confirmed a place in the final with a smashing straight-sets victory against Jelena Jankovic, while Ivanovic had to put on every bit of her effort to get over the semi final against Daniela Hantuchova, after a poor start in the three-set victory. Both Maria Sharapova and Ana Ivanovic are in their prime form now.

Maria Sharapova has come back strongly after an injury-pronged last year. The Russian was handled a tough draw in the competition with the second round meeting with Lindsay Davenport, and world no. 1 Justine Henin in the quarter final, both of them are former champion of Australian Open. To be honest, I had never seen anyone before to dominate over Henin in such a way as Sharapova did with taking a bagel 6-0 in the second set of the two-set victory.

Boston.com reported:

"You have your bad moments in your career and you have your good moments, and it's been a good ride so far," she said. "But it's not over yet.

"In a Grand Slam where I've had good success but some tough endings, I still believe at the end I'll always have more opportunities."

On the other hand, Ana Ivanovic has also been at her great form with improved physical fitness. The Serbian, though, had a successful last year; she was not in such a dominating form. Having defeated Venus Williams in the quarter final, Ana Ivanovic posed a threat for the tournament favorites. Now, she has made it to the final of the tournament getting only Maria Sharapova as her last hurdle to win her first grand slam title.

Ahead of the match, Ivanovic has been full of praise about Maria Sharapova. Referring her success in the tournament, Ivanovic has termed her as a big fighter. However, she has also indicated that she will fight for each point.

Canadian Press reported:

"Maria has had a good tournament ... beating Justine in two sets," said Ivanovic. "It's going to be definitely a very, very tough match."

"It's just the way these courts play," she said. "I just tried to move my feet, to return the ball, so it really was not intentional."

"She's definitely a big fighter and she never gives up," Ivanovic said. "That's also something I feel like we have a little bit in common - I also try to fight for each point.

Regarding the final match, Maria Sharapova has commented that whoever it is, she just want to play great tennis as she is looking forward to play in the final again.

Canada.com reported:

"I really hope I take advantage of having the experience behind my back," Sharapova said. "I'm looking forward to being in the final again, and whoever it is, I just hope I can produce some great tennis."

Well, considering recent form of Sharapova and Ivanovic, it seems that Maria Sharapova is favorite in the match. She also has more experience than the Serbian. However, what is the advantage of Ana Ivanovic is that she seems to be fit both physically and mentally and has huge confidence in her. Pointing out today’s semi final, I would like to mention that Ivanovic could manage to win over Daniela Hantuchova not only with her tennis skill; rather it was embedded on her mental strength, because it is very difficult to win a match after losing first eight sets of the match. It needs lots of confidence. This confidence and mental strength along with her improved physical fitness will help her when she takes on Maria Sharapova in the final of Australian Open 2008 tournament.

That is why, I will not go for any prediction regarding the result of match as it would have no meaning. What I would like to say is that the player who will be able to hold her composure and play according to her merit will have better chance, because if you go back to the performance of them, you can see that both of them are full of potential and it is very difficult to say either of them is favorite for the final of Australian Open 2008 tournament. I hope that Maria Sharapova and Ana Ivanovic will come up with their best from in the final and present a classic match for the fans of tennis world.

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Maria Sharapova vs Ana Ivanovic: Final of Australian Open 2008

Maria Sharapova and Ana Ivanovic will take on each other in the final of Australian Open 2008. Maria Sharapova confirmed her place in the final with an impressive victory over Jelena Jankovic. The flawless Sharapova took just about an hour to outperform the third seed 6-3, 6-1 and stormed into the final of Australian Open for the second year in a row. On the other hand, Ana Ivanovic had to make it to the Australian Open final though a three-set thriller over Daniela Hantuchova. Despite the early setback, Ana Ivanovic bounced back to win the match 0-6, 6-3, 6-4 and confirmed her second ever grand slam final.

Now, Ana Ivanovic has to face Maria Sharapova to win her first grand slam final in her career. It is expected to be a tough one for the Serbian as Maria Sharapova has been in an imperious form so far in the tournament. Sharapova has not lost any set so far in the tournament. It is also true that Ivanovic did not lose any set before the semi final match in the tournament.

Ana Ivanovic had a breakthrough season in 2007 with reaching her first ever grand slam final in French Open and she continued her dream run to reach the Wimbledon semi final. With such an impressive performance, she broke into the top five of ranking for the first time in her career. The 20-year old Serbian looked tougher and stronger than ever from the very beginning of Australian Open 2008. She did not look any time during any match of the tournament except the first set of the semi final match. The fourth seed has improved in both physically and mentally. Today’s victory is in evidence of her mental strength.

Maria Sharapova, on the other hand, had a nightmare season in 2007. Though she started the season with reaching the final of Australian Open last year, she could not show any more consistency throughout the season. Added to that she had to fight against her woeful should injury that kept her out of her form a big part of the season and forced her to adopt a new serving action.

However, despite all those odds, Maria Sharapova made an impressive come back though the Australian Open 2008. She has defeated two former Australian Open winners- Lindsay Davenport and Justine Henin in the way to the final. The two grand slam Open winner is now just a step closure from another grand slam open title.

Now, ahead of the match, Maria Sharapova will be inspired to take avenge of her defeat to Ana Ivanovic in the semi final of French Open last year. Sharapova has already taken the revenge of that humiliating defeat by smashing a straight-sets victory at the Tour Championship against Ivanovic last year. Both of them have faced each other four times in the past with both of them winning twice.

Maria Sharapova and Ana Ivanovic are two of the youngsters of tennis world. Both of them are 20 and full of rhythm. They are full of potential and very skilled. So, I hope to see a classic final which people will recall even after a ling time. Now, let us see who are going to win the title of Autralian Open 2008 tournament.

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Ana Ivanovic Reached into the Final of Australian Open 2008

Ana Ivanovic advanced into the final of Australian Open 2008 after winning a hard-fought three-set match over Daniela Hantuchova in the semi final. Ivanovic lost a set for the first time in the tournament in her However, Ivanovic showed her mental toughness winning the match 0-6, 6-3, 6-4 after suffering eight games in a row in the match. It was known to all that the Serbian improved her fitness level, but the tennis world has seen her mental strength in this match.

Daniela Hantuchova started off the match in style, clinching the first set without losing any game. Ivanovic’s imperious performance was not found in the first as she failed to show any resistance in the first one being held to love 6-0. Daniela Hantuchova, of Slovakia, opened the second set in the similar fashion with wining the first two games. However, Ana Ivanovic bounced back strongly winning three games in a row to make it 3-2 from 2-0 down. Hantuchova came back wining the next one leading to a closing end in the second set. However, Ivanovic sealed the second set winning three more games in a row, taking the match to the third set for the first time in the tournament.

In the third set, Hantuchova opened with winning the first game, before Ivanovic went on to win two sets in a row to take 2-1 lead. Hantuchova then again came back winning the next two games to make it 3-2. Ivanovic then won the next game before Hantuchova won another to take the lead 4-3 in the topsy-turvy set. With Ivanovic winning the next game, it seemed to be an order where both of them were winning a game after losing one. However, the break came in the order when Ana Ivanovic won the next two games to secure the second set as well as the match.

This is going to be the second grand slam final for Ana Ivanovic in her career after losing in the French Open final last year. The fourth seed now has to face Maria Sharapova in the final. It would not be so easy for the Serbian to break down Sharapova, the fifth seed, to win her first grand slam title. Sharapova ousted another Serbian Jelena Jankovic in other semi final of the tournament. So, Serbian fans will definitely want Ivanovic to take the revenge against Sharapova in the final winning the title of the year’s first grand slam tournament.

Maria Sharapova Eased into the Final of Australian Open 2008

Maria Sharapova reached the final of Australian Open 2008 with a 6-3, 6-1 demolition of third seed Jelena Jankovic in the semi final. The victory was every bit as comfortable for Sharapova as the score line shows. The Russian needed just over an hour to wrap up the match in straight sets. Jelena Jankovic had to struggle with injury in the match as well, which she suffered in every previous round match of the tournament.

Jelena Jankovic, however, could show some resistance while threatening to suffer a 6-0 bagle in the first set. From 5-0 down, Jankovic went on to win three games in a row including a service break which indicated a closing first set. However, Maria Sharapova did not give any more chance and sealed the first set winning the next game. In the second, it was all about Maria Sharapova, while Jelena Jankovic had to take treatment for her injury. Jankovic could not show her fighting spirit in the second set as Sharapova blew the Serbian off the court booking her place in the final of Australian Open for the second year in a row.

AFP reported:

"I'm realy happy I got through and I'm back in the final," said the 20-year-old, who is on a mission to make amends for last year's humiliating loss to Serena Williams.

"I had the experience going into last year's final and it didn't turn out too good.

"I'm just glad that I've been able to play such good tennis and I hope I can continue that for another match."

Maria Sharapova now has to face either Ana Ivanovic or Daniela Hantuchova in the final of the tournament. Maria Sharapova has been in an ominous from in the tournament having defeated world no. 1 Justine Henin in the quarter final. She has not lost any set in the tournament so far. However, Maria Sharapova was in the similar red-hot form last year before suffering a humiliating defeat to unseeded Serena Williams in straight sets in the final, ending her impressive run in the tournament. However, it was Sharapova who was full of errors in the match handling the match to Serena Williams. Now, let us see if the Maria Sharapova can win the Australian Open title this time around.

Maria Sharapova vs Jelena Jankovic: Live Score and Live Updates

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Maria Sharapova defeated Jelena Jankovic 6-3, 6-1 in the semi final today.

Ana Ivanovic defeated Daniela Hantuchova 0-6, 6-3, 6-4 in the other semi final of women's singles.

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga defeated Rafael Nadal 6-2 6-3 6-2 in the semi final of Men's singles today.

Maria Sharapova (3) --- Jelena Jankovic (0)

Sharapova held her serve and won the third point and now leading 3-0

3rd Point: Sharapova now serving

Sharapova broke the serve of Jankovic and capturd the second point and leading by 2-0

Deuce (Yes, again!!!!)

Deuce (again!)

Deuce

Deuce

Deuce

30-30

15-15

2nd Point: Jankovic is serving.

Sharapova took the first point impressively. Big first serve from Sharapova as Jankovic could not offer any resistance.

15-0

1st point: Maria Sharapova serving.

The roof is being closed totally now for rain and that is why there is some delay in the match. It will start within a minute or two.

The match will start any moment. The two players are in the court and warming up.
The match will start within 2-3 minutes. So, stay here for live score and live updates of Maria Sharapova vs Jelena Jankovic match.

Ana Ivanovic vs Daniela Hantuchova: Who will Win?

The two semi final matches of women’s singles of Australian Open 2008 will be held today. Maria Sharapova and Jelena Jankovic will take on each other in the first semi final followed by Ana Ivanovic vs Daniela Hantuchova second semi final match of the day. Ana Ivanovic has been superb with her impressive performance so far in the tournament, while Hantuchova has reached her first ever grand slam semi final in her career.

Image Source: Wikipedia

Fourth seed Ana Ivanovic defeated Venus Williams in straight sets in the quarter final to make her way to the semi final. Daniela Hantuchova had Agnieszka Radwanska, of Poland, to defeat in the quarter final and the Serbian could easily get through the match to set up a semi final clash with Ivanovic.

Image Source: Wikipedia

Now, Ana Ivanovic and Daniela Hantuchova must be gearing up to reach their first ever Australian Open final. For Hantuchova, it would be first final in a grand slam tournament. In fact, Hantuchova is going to play her first ever grand slam semi final today. So, you can easily assume that Hantuchova has nothing to lose in the tournament as she must be happy with what she has already achieved so far in Australian Open 2008. However, she is now in her great form and it would be very logical for the Slovakian to eye on the final of the tournament.

Ana Ivanovic, on the other hand, must see it is a great chance to claim her first grand slam title given the fact that Henin and Williams sisters have already been out. It does not mean that Ivanovic is not capable of winning a title in the presence of Henin and Williams sisters. Actually, what I want to say is that they were top favorites in the tournament and Ivanovic has been in an imperious form in the tournament. So, it has become much easier for the world no. 4 to win her first ever grand slam title.

Ivanovic had a successful 2007. However, she looks much more confident this year with her imperious form. Actually, the Serbian might have worked hard during the off season. She has improved both physically and mentally- which made her better player. Ivanovic has not dropped any set so far in the tournament.

Turned professional in 1999, Hantuchova had little success in grand slam arena so far. Considering the fact that this is the first time she cold reach the semi final of a grand slam tournament, I think, you can understand that she revived her career in Australian Open 2008. So, it is almost certain that Ivanovic will find some strong challenges in the semi final of Australian Open 2008.

Now, I know that there are many who would see Ivanovic favorite in the match. However, to me, this is something really very hard to predict when two young, in form players face each other, because they are all full of spirit. Rather, I think, Hantuchova’s eight year in professional will help her to face Ivanovic. Ivanovic and So, I think, both of them have equal chance to win the match and reach the final of the tournament. Ivanovic has two victories over Hantuchova in their three meetings so far. Now, let us see if Ivanovic can continue her form over Hantuchova today in the semi final of Australian Open 2008 tournament.

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Ana Ivanovic vs Daniela Hantuchova: Semi Final of Australian Open 2008

Ana Ivanovic and Daniela Hantuchova will face each other in the semi final of Australian Open 2008 on Thursday. The third seed, Ivanovic has defeated Venus Williams in a thrilling quarter final clash in straight sets. With projecting her first victory in five meeting with Venus, she confirmed her third grand slam semi final. The Serbian did not find it easy to outfight the six grand slam titles winner Venus Williams in the 7-6, 6-4 victory. The first set was full of errors from both Ivanovic and Venus with six service breaks. However, Ivanovic could manage to secure the first set in tiebreaker. However, the Venus Williams bounced back in the second taking it to 3-0 at one stage, before Ivanovic came back with her impressive run to wrap up the match in straight sets.

Image Source: Wikipedia

Daniela Hantuchova has reached the semi final of a grand slam for the first time in her career, ending the impressive run of Polish starlet Agnieszka Radwanska in the quarter final. The Slovakian won the match 6-2, 6-2, without facing any strong resistance from her opponent. Australian Open 2008 has already been breakthrough for Hantuchova. The 25 year old, started her career with lots of potential. However, she could not flourish her potential in the big stages. Thus she needed eight years to make it to a grand slam semi final. Hantuchova thinks that she has improved herself mentally. She has insisted that making a way to win a match is more important, even when one is not playing well.

The Age reported:

For one who has always exercised her mind so vigorously, it might seem peculiar that Hantuchova believes she has always had the game to win major tournaments, but "I just needed, I guess, to improve myself mentally, to believe it".

A significant aspect of that process was to stop dwelling on mistakes during matches. "I think I realised that it's OK to … not always play my best tennis," she said.

"But, you know, it's a nice challenge to have to always find a way how to get through a match, even not playing well. And I think it's something that I've improved a lot the last few months."

Image Source: Wikipedia

Ana Ivanovic had a breakthrough season in 2007 with reaching the final of a grand slam tournament for the first time and broke into the top ten of ranking. However, the French Open finalist has started off well in the tournament without dropping any set so far. She has improved a lot in her fitness and game. The Serbian has tried to improve in her fitness for last 18 months, which definitely made her stronger and tougher to break down.

Times Online reported:

Ivanovic's punishing fitness training paid off and answered questions about her temperament following her worrying defeat in the French Open final last year. "It was a little bit nerve cracking," she said when asked about serving at match point. "I'm just so, so happy I managed to step up and keep my composure and win the match."

Well, now it is almost certain that both Ivanovic and Hantuchova will try their best to make it to the final of Australian Open 2008. With Henin, Williams sisters out of the tournament, it is really a good chance to win their first ever grand slam title.

I see both of them have equal chance in the match. The match will be held today. Ivanovic and Hantuchova have met each other on three occasions so far with Ivanovic wining twice. Ivanovic can make all Serbian final if she can survive in the semi final and her fellow Serbian Jelena Jankovic wins over Maria Sharapova in the other semi final. I think, both Ivanovic and Hantuchova are in their prime form. So, I hope to see an exciting match today in Melbourne Park.

What do you think about the match?

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Roger Federer vs James Blake: Who will Win?

James Blake could never become a big threat for Roger Federer. Even the American could not come in the same line of Rafael Nadal or Novak Djokovic, who are known as possible threats for the kingdom of Roger Federer. However, the things seem to be different this time around. The two are lining up to face each other in the quarter final of Australian Open 2008 today.

Now, before going though the answer of the question given in the title, I would like to take some points into account. First of all, reaching the quarter final of the tournament, James Blake has marked his best ever Australian Open performance. The second one is that James Blake, the 12^th seed, could not yet reach the semi final of any grand slam tournament so far. Another point comes here is that Roger Federer could not continue his imperious form in the last two matches against unseeded players, though could get over the hurdles successfully. The last point, I want to mention here is that Roger Federer is now in his mission to win the Australian Open title for the third time in a row, which would be his 13^th grand slam title, just one behind from Pete Sampras’ record 14 grand slam titles in his career.

Considering the fact given above, you can realize easily that to what extent it is important for Federer to win the match. It does not mean, the match is not or less important for James Blake. What I want to state here is that, Federer has a goal ahead of him to reach, but he was underperformed in the last two matches, while James Blake has been in his prime form in the tournament.

So, if Federer and Blake keep continue their recent form, then it would be a match between an unimpressive Roger Federer and in form James Blake. Well, there are many who might believe that even Roger Federer with his unimpressive form would be enough to reel off victory over James Blake in his prime form.

However, I do not like to agree with the. To me, if Roger Federer gets back his imperious form then there is hardly anyone who could show enough resistance. His dominant form of last couple of years will support my idea. However, if Federer can not retain his natural form and Blake continues his impressive run, then it could bring out a decisive victory for James Blake. However, on top of all, I hope to experience an interesting match today.

Timing and Schedule of Roger Federer vs James Blake Quarter Final Match of Australian Open 2008

The upcoming quarter final match between Roger Federer and James Blake is now in the center of all attention to their fans. Federer has come to Australian Open 2008 with the mission of winning his third Australian Open title in a row, which would see him move within one of the record 14 grand slam titles held by American great Pete Sampras. James Blake, in contrast, is now in the way to reach to the semi final of a grand slam tournament for the first time in his career. I know that there are many who are now eager to know the timing of Roger Federer vs James Blake match. Here goes the timing of the match:

Date: 23 January, Wednesday

Venue: Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Park

Local Time (Melbourne): 7:30 PM

GMT: 8:30 AM

Indian Time: 2:00 PM

If you are interested to adjust the match time with your local time then click here.

Roger Federer and James Blake faced each other for seven times in the past. Roger Federer, top seed, proved too much for James Blake to win in all those previous matches. However, Blake has been in his prime form and looks determined to take on Roger Federer this time around. Added to that, Roger Federer was not in his great form in the two previous round matches.

So, James Blake seems much more confident now. However, the fact is that the players like Roger Federer can bring out their best in the high profile matches. There are many, who think that, Federer can survive against James Blake even if he is not in his great form. Well, I will go that far, because Blake has also been in an impressive form. What I would like to say is that Roger Federer is favorite for the clash, but if James Blake comes up with his best performance and Roger Federer can not be up to the mark, then James Blake will certainly have chances in the match.

Roger Federer vs James Blake: Quarter Final of Australian Open 2008

Roger Federer and James Blake are going to face each other in the quarter final clash of Australian Open 2008. World no. 1, Roger Federer is gearing up to win her 13^th grand slam titles, going another step further to catch Pete Samprpas’ record 14 grand slam titles. The Swiss was the champion of Australian Open for last two years meaning the Australian Open title of this year would be his third in a row.

American James Blake does not have any such goal in the tournament. However, do not think that he is packing up to catch the return flight. In fact, Blake has not reached the semi final of any grand slam tournament so far and reaching the quarter final, the 12^th seed has already marked his best Australian Open success. Naturally, Blake will be inspired to play all out against Federer to try to make it to the semi final.

Well, Blake could find another target ahead of him to reach this time around. Blake had seven meetings with Roger Federer so far, but the American found it too difficult to win any of those previous seven matches. So, once he has been in good form, he will certainly try out his best to win this time around. Indicating their 2006 Masters Cup final match up, where Federer won 6-0, 6-3, 6-4, James Blake has said that he had played pretty well that day, but admitted, it was not enough as the Swiss was up to the mark. He said:

"I thought I played pretty well in the finals of the Masters Cup," said Blake. "Was just kind of blown away by how well he played that day. If that's the case again, you know, it hurts, it's disappointing at the time, but by the time I got on the plane or got off the plane I just said, 'you know, what could I have done?'

"He played too well. I can't beat myself up about it. I can go out and practice and see if I can get better, see if there's any way to defend what he was doing that day. But try to learn something from all of them. So far I've learned he's pretty good."

Yes, it is true that when Roger Federer is in his prime, others have hardly anything to do that day. Actually, Blake’s hopes lies herein as the world no. 1 could not show enough dominance in the last two matches. Federer had to survive through a hard-fought five-set victory against unseeded Janko Tipsarevic from Serbia. Then Tomas Berdych took the every bit of Federer’s strength before losing in straight-sets in the fourth round. Taking Federer’s unimpressive victories as evidence, James Blake found his inspiration before he takes on Federer today.

The Sydney Morning Herald reported:

"Just (Tipsarevic) taking him to 10-8 in the fifth shows that it doesn't matter who you are, you can play your best and take him to the limit," Blake said.

"Every time I've stepped out on the court with him I've felt if I play my best, I give myself a shot."

Well, Roger Federe does not seem to be worried enough ahead of the quarter final clash with James Blake. He knows it very well that he does not need to concentrate on others. What he needs is to put in his natural performance, which is enough to break down anyone in a particular day. However, Roger Federer has been full of praise about James Blake, referring his aggressive style of game.

ESPN reported:

"[Blake] plays incredibly aggressive tennis. Improved his serve a lot, his backhand. So have to be very careful. I know his game sort of suits my game. I've had some great matches against him where I always play my very best. So we'll see how it goes this time around. Definitely got to play offensive myself, put him on the back foot as well.

"I'm excited to play against him. He's one of the nicest guys on tour, very respected on tour, very sportsmanlike."

Roger Federer has already become a legendary figure in Men’s tennis. There are many who are now predicting where he would stop after his retirement. Roger Federer won all of the men’s singles grand slam titles except French Open in the last two years. Now, ahead of the Roger Federer vs James Blake quarter final match of Australian Open 2008, it is really very hard to bet on James Blake, considering all the facts related to them. It is, however, true that if Blake can make it possible, then, no doubt, he is going to enter into the history of tennis, even before playing any grand slam final in his career.