Is Del Potro Ready to Play the "Bad Guy" Versus Roddick?

Despite being one of the most beloved players on tour, Juan Martin Del Potro will have to play the role of "bad guy" tonight when he faces Andy Roddick in their fourth round match.

By Erik Gudris

(September 4, 2012) -- Despite being one of the most beloved players on tour, especially with his penchant for breaking down in tears after an emotional win, Juan Martin del Potro may have to assume a familiar role tonight on Arthur Ashe Stadium -- that of the "bad guy".

Del Potro will face sentimental favorite Andy Roddick who announced that he would retire from the sport after this year's U.S. Open. And though Del Potro has dealt with this tricky experience before a few years ago when he defeated Marat Safin in Bercy at the Russian's last match, this evening could be different given the expected noisy and partisan crowd of 20,000 plus at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

"Big atmosphere," was how Del Potro described what he expects from the scene tonight on Ashe. "The crowd loves Andy here and they have respect to me, so will be a fantastic show to the players and to the fans also."

While Roddick has been a staple on the biggest stage in the sport since he won the title back in 2003, it may surprise some to know that Del Potro, even with having won his first Major in New York in 2009, has yet to make a return appearance on the event's biggest court since then. Another fact -- Del Potro has only played in one scheduled night match on the court, that being way back in 2007 when he lost in the third round to Novak Djokovic.

Could the atmosphere and occasion get to the "Tower of Tandil"? That remains to be seen, but Del Potro said he planned on preparing for tonight as if it were a regular match.

"I will prepare like always. I know this is special, this day, for him, but I'm doing my job. I will trying to be focused on my match and doing my things, my shots. The match is going to be very tough. But, anyway, if I play in high level, will be tough for both players."

Del Potro also takes some comfort in knowing that he leads the head to head versus Roddick 3 to 1 with Roddick winning their last meeting in Memphis.

"You know, he's a tough matchup for anybody because he hits such a big ball," said Roddick about the matchup. "I'm going to have to serve well, kind of try to rush him a little bit. When he gets into a groove and has time, he'll put a hurt on the ball."

Roddick may have a shot against Del Potro, especially with the crowd on his side, but if it is the Argentine who ends up putting the hurt on Roddick that causes the American to bow out in his final match tonight, it's more than likely that we could see the likable and soft-spoken Del Potro borrow a few tissues from the fans in the front row as they say good-bye to one of the sport's most charismatic champions.

(Photo Credit: Andy Kentla)