Roddick and Williams lead Americans in the Australian Open.

by brodymccoy | January 19, 2007 at 07:08 pm

184 views | 0 Recommendations | 0 comments

Andy Roddick is one of 4 Americans still left in the mens draw with 24 players remaining, unfortunately James Blake and Robby Ginepri(both Americans) will be squaring off against each other in the third round. Words from Andy Roddick after a long battle against Marat Safin, "I'm glad it looks like I'm rolling through this tournament, because it doesn't feel like it." He also said it's been great to have Jimmy Connors in the crowd and on the court to get him mentally prepared for his match. Roddick moves on to face Mario Ancic of Croatia, would likely play one of his pals in Mardy Fish(U.S.) next, and hopefully will have a shot in the quarters to take down arguably the most dominant male ever to play the game in Rodger Federer.
On the womens side Serena Williams and Ashley Harkleroad are the only Americans still alive. With both playing seeds next, Serena is the only chance for the U.S., considering I teach tennis and I haven't even heard of Harkleroad. Serena has been battling injuries but has comeback strong and is looking to make her stand as the top player in the world again. This will be a very long shot for Williams having to play the 11 seed, 3 seed, 2 seed, and of course the finals where she likely would meet Sharapova the defending champ. Nothing is impossible. The big questions that will be answered after this tournament.. Will Serena have enough endurance to make it through? Will Roddick use his brain and serve and volley once he meets Federer? Both players have a chance to win it, lets just hope they have the support and will to win. Cheer on these fellow Americans as they make a run in the sun!!!! -Brody M