What Federer Can Show Us

On the eve of the 2010 US Open, with Nadal as the best player in the game, Federer still has something to show us, to teach us. If Federer can play at a high level, with grace and true appreciation of those who surpass him in the moment, and can win occasionally while never being bitter or awkward, he will show us a new facet of sportsmanship. I hope he tries and I hope his public appreciates how difficult this accomplishment would be.

Nicholas and Nikolay

Nikolay is playing the best tennis of anyone over the past few months. His superb footwork and surprising power now are paired with a confidence that seemed to be strangely lacking in the past. When my son Lucas and I saw ND play at the Pilot Pen last summer, he was hitting 130 mph serves. I had no idea he had that sort of power. He also has a scowl. I learned of his scowl first hand when we were watching him on a practice court. Nikolay must not have been used to being observed by 'fans' - Lucas noted that he was looking at me with a glare as I prepared to photograph his practice. I find him fascinating - 13m in winnings and no website. He seems like a hard working, tough, smart, undersized athlete making the absolute most of his talents.