Men’s quarters, Wimbledon

Highlights of the men’s quarterfinals include.

1) Federer comes back from two sets down to beat Marin Cilic.  Roger saved three match points on the way.  Cilic played absolutely great tennis, which makes one wonder why he doesn’t win more matches.  Once Federer got a foothold in this match by winning the third set, he started to put on a display of all court tennis that was just mind boggling.  It’s hard to imagine how someone his age with so little match play this year could produce dazzling tennis like that.  But Federer is, well, Federer.  This match showed why I hold the view that Roger has the very best one handed backhand in the game.  More on that in an upcoming post.

2) Raonic wins impressively.  Milos Raonic took out Sam Querrey in 4 sets.  Although he lost the third set, Milos looked in control the whole way.  His net play was outstanding.  Raonic is not quick, but he is very agile for his size and has great hands.  He should pose a serious threat to Federer in the next round.

3) Lucas Pouille’s run ends.  Pouille lost easily to Thomas Berdych, but what a great tournament he had!  Another dangerous Frenchman on the rise. 

4) Tsonga takes Murray to 5 sets.  A long tiebreaker in the first, and a five setter for Murray.  He won the last set easily, though, and he’s in fabulous physical shape.  He should be fresh enough to handle Berdych in the semis.