US OPEN 2012
US OPEN SUNDAY DIARY: RODDICK MEETS REDFOO
New York, U.S.A.
by ATP Staff | 02.09.2012
Andy Roddick met electropop star
Redfoo on Sunday.
ATPWorldTour.com takes a look at the news and talking points at the US Open on the first Sunday.
An Unshaven Serbian
After winning his third-round match against Julien Benneteau, defending champion Novak Djokovic was questioned about his supposed stubbly look. The Serbian said he shaved the night before in preparation for the 11 a.m. match on Arthur Ashe Stadium, explaining, “I usually get used to being criticised from my mom for not being shaved fully, but thanks for reminding me of that. I will make sure next time I'm looking nice and shaved.
“I haven't played the first match of the day session for a long time, so it's not that easy. I’m not always the morning person, to be honest. You try to go to bed early and try to wake up early and get your body moving obviously. I wanted to start very sharp from the first point, and I've done that.”
The Next Design Star?
Radek Stepanek disclosed in an interview with ATPWorldTour.com that he has been involved in the design process of his new shirts. Explaining his latest creation, which features the Statue of Liberty and New York City skyline, Stepanek said, “The city has a great energy. And the fans are amazing. I wanted to show what I feel here. I’m thankful for the New York fans and the city for having such a great event.”
Celebrity Sightings
Electropop star Redfoo was one of several celebrities who turned up to Flushing Meadows. Set to launch his own tennis clothing line, Redfoo had the opportunity to meet Andy Roddick following the American’s win against Fabio Fognini. Other celebrities in attendance included Kevin Spacey, Tony Danza, Rosie O'Donnell, Josh Groban and John Legend.
Roddick Remembers Connors' Run
As a young fan in 1991, Andy Roddick attended the US Open, watching 39-year-old Jimmy Connors make an improbable run to the semi-finals. Roddick revealed that he managed to sneak his way into the player lounge during the tournament. “I didn't quite make it to the locker room. I didn't want to press my luck,” said Roddick. “They had free stuff in the lounge, so I was fine with that.”
Tipsarevic's Turnaround
Eighth seed Janko Tipsarevic will play for a place in the US Open quarter-finals for the second consecutive year after enjoying a straight-sets win over Slovenian Grega Zemlja Sunday. Since trailing two sets to love in the opening round against Frenchman Guillaume Rufin, the Serb has reeled off nine straight sets.
Asked what he changed to turn around his fortunes, Tipsarevic said: "I guess my whole approach to the game. My mind was somewhere else for a short period of time. It shows that if you're not 110 percent ready to commit you can lose to anyone. It's good to have a small scare at the beginning of the tournament just to remind you that every point counts."
Match Of The Day
Andy Roddick, who is playing his final tournament, put his retirement on hold with a 7-5, 7-6(1), 4-6, 6-4 victory over Italian Fabio Fognini. “This whole process, I'm not trying to over think it. I'm enjoying it,” said Roddick. “I'm trying to be as simplistic as possible. I'm trying to enjoy the process. And when I get out there, [I’m] trying to compete also.”
Tweet Of The Day
@Bryanbrothers: I not a big fake tan guy, but these dudes are a must see @usopen.
http://instagr.am/p/PFeSkqp1RM/