Hanging Around

by Jon Levey

Just got back from Court Suzanne-Lenglen where Marat Safin defeated Raemon Sluiter in four sets. It wasn't enough against Safin today, but the Dutchman is a cagey competitor with the best two-handed forehand drop shot this side of Fabrice Santoro. He has one of the more unusual service motions as he starts more than a foot behind the baseline so he can actually step forward with his front foot as he tosses the ball. You won’t find that in any tennis textbook.

By the way, they do a nice thing for fans at Suzanne-Lenglen. Since the photographer’s pit, which is courtside, is so large and wide, they allow people in wheelchairs to watch the matches from there. It’s a classy gesture and something every event should consider.

On to a totally unrelated topic. Kudos to Conchita Martinez for putting a fright into all those who picked Justine Henin-Hardenne to win the tournament. It had the makings of a blowout, but the match got tight before Henin-Hardenne prevailed 6-0, 4-6, 6-4. I’ve never enjoyed watching Martinez play (I’d rather do laundry), but not many people thought she had the slightest chance today. She’s still rather unpleasant to play on clay.

Also, Juan Carlos Ferrero looked dominant blitzing Karol Beck in straight sets. If he and Safin continue to win they would meet in the third round. And the last time they tangled a few weeks ago in Hamburg, Germany, it got a little testy.

Agassi faces Nieminen next on Philippe-Chatrier. Let’s see what he’s got.