The Deuce Club, 7.24

By Heidi Kim, TW Contributing Writer

Thanks to everyone who has sent in photos for Deuce Club in the last week!  When it rains, it rains photos.  I assure you I will be using at least one from everyone over the next few weeks.

Today's is sadly apropos after yesterday's first-round crash in Toronto.  Faithful Federer fan Russ, shown at right with his wife Celine, didn't shave in the lead-up to Roland Garros, hoping that it would help Federer win.  Funnily enough, fellow top ten player James Blake also doesn't shave during tournaments -- Federer, as becomes a Gillette spokesperson, is always smooth-chinned.  Regardless, it's a great way to show support.  And since Blake himself is a big Federer admirer, it all works out somehow!

Alas, we all know how it ended.  The silver lining here is that we get a picture of Russ in all his freshly shaven glory as well.  Note the large smile despite the heartbreaking loss.  Keep on trucking, Fed fans!  Hug those Federbears and hang in there.

Now, on to some planning for future events.  Regular poster GVGirl sent in some announcements about Talk About Tennis events at the US Open:

I will repeat the tailgate announcement in future weeks, but put it on your calendars now.  GV Girl's tips for attending the US Open can also be found on the TAT site.

Don't forget to email me if you are planning to attend an upcoming tournament.  And photos are always welcome!