I spent the better part of the day wondering about Federer's place in the game. How good is this guy? What do his shots feel like to play against? And how good of shape is this guy in? I was working out in the gym and to my surprise Patrick McEnroe walks by. I did a double take and so did he when we saw each other. I said: "Back already?" I was curious about his thoughts of the performance first hand then I went back to my reps. I became inspired by his domination and efficiency over the past 2 weeks. The guy hasn't lost a set for the entire tournament. He is like Borg was on clay in his prime.

For the last few weeks, I have dilegently studied these hightlighs. I have learned a lot about my own game and can already see improvement. I think the biggest benefit is learning shot patterns and how players put together a sequence of shots to win a point and wear and opponent down. Perhaps next time I will get Patrick McEnroes input as well. In the meantime, check out the highlights below and the earmarks at the points and sequences I found intriguing and amazing all in one.

4:29
Federer displays great patience when constructing a point. He came out very aggressive in the match and blends variety with initiative with a creative clay court type angle to bring the point near end. But it was worth more than one point. It really exhausted Gonzales.

3:03
This is what happens when you get tired. It is subtle to the viewer but not so to the participant. Gonzales has an easy forehand pass opportunity and hits right back to Fed's backhand. His reward? A sprint to the backhand corner for a much more difficult option.

2:35
When you get fatigued you try to find ways to get cheap points. Here Gonzales tries a desparate chip and charge tactic without much chip. This is not his game.

2:28.
This is the point of the match! Here is this sequence Federer utilizes two identical transition shots in the same way with a backhand slice approach. He makes a great leap in the air for a high backhand overhead. Gets back in the point and charges forward with the same shot selection again. You may guess the result.

Enjoy the highlights. As far as me and the gym. I think I may be inspired to continue my workout in the very near future!



TROPHY CEREMONY

Our Aussie Open Party was a lot of fun we were hoping for a big time clash. The Fosters Lager flowed regardless. All you can say about that match is, Serena was sharp!

When you look at these highlights you may wonder where all the rallies are. There were not many. Serena did a great job of starting off the points with sharp spinning serves with a lot of weight behind them and crisply angled returns. This created big openings and easy angles for that frustrated Sharapova. I would say the average shot tolerance in the rally was between 2 and 4. Amazing.

Maria didn't play that poorly but she was not able to come up with a Plan B. Which is a problem for her game. She knows only one way to play. Typically, she can get away with this one plan only strategy. Last night she was lost. Come to think of it her father looked a bit disheveled as well when you see the highlights. Was it symbolic or coincidence?