Quick thoughts from the Australian Open

1. Tommy Haas needed five sets to beat Janko Tipsarevic, but he rose to the occasion and proved that a strong mind can be a weapon that equals an ace or a killer winning forehand.


2. Venus Williams’ transition to the net is one of, if not, the very best on the tour. She always wants to challenge her opponent’s shots and then come in as well. By doing so, she reaches the ball very quickly, catching her opponent out of position. Her balance and speed enable her to get to the ball quickly and during this transition she is preparing her back swing and shoulder turn as well. Her first volleys are very basic and hit more east and west because she closes in very close to the net, enabling her to have much more court to volley to. She gives away the lob because getting closer to the net will help her win more points in the long run. Also, because of her height it is very difficult to hit a lob over her head.


3. Donald Young – I have said it before (when he was 14 and turned pro) and I will say it again. Donald has so many natural weapons beginning with his lefty forehand than can open up the court, making it very difficult for the opponent to recover and hit a good shot. In addition to this he has quick hands, great anticipation, he takes the ball early and he has the ability to serve and control play. His biggest weakness is his physical fitness. Hewitt was able to wear him down and he must work on his body to be a top pro. The clock is ticking, and only Donlad can determine the outcome of his career.

Stay tuned for more tomorrow!