Shanghai happenings

The Shanghai Rolex Masters is the only 1000 event in Asia, and all of the active “big guns” are there.  Here are some highlight events.

1)  The weather.  The weather at the start of the tournament was brutal, with temperatures in the 90’s and humidity in the mid 80’s.  These conditions forced Jack Sock to retire from his match, and led to a 6-0 final set loss by Denis Shapovalov in his match with Victor Troicki.  As pointed out on this blog before, the planet is getting warmer, and the risk of heat stroke, a potentially fatal decompensation that results from excessive heat exposure, is increasing.  I’ve suggested before that the men, like the women, should be given a 10 minute break after the second set if conditions are so difficult.  Let’s hope the ATP is considering it.

2)  Kyrgios flops.  Nick Kyrgios got the worst of an errant line call in his match with Steve Johnson, and responded with unsportsmanlike conduct and verbal abuse of a spectator, after which he walked off the court at the end of the first set.  If Kyrgios can’t handle the pressure of high level competition better that that, he will always be a journeyman player.  Only grownups reach the top of the tour.

3)  Nadal looks awesome.  Rafa Nadal has dominated his opponents throughout the Asian tour, and his performance this far in Shanghai has been truly awesome.  He is doing everything well, and has been in total command of his matches.  Looks unbeatable.

4)  Federer is well, Federer.  Roger Federer decided to play in this tournament, and has elected to travel to the venue on the subway system.  He waits in line to buy his subway tickets like everyone else.  Other passengers have enjoyed chatting with him while he’s on his way to work, and he seems as affable as ever while socializing with them.  There will never be another one like Roger!