Sony Ericsson Open: Men’s Semifinal Preview

By
at Internationaled.org

Published: April 2, 2010

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Key Biscayne, Fla.— A decimated field at this year's Sony Ericsson Open has left a few familiar names standing, while entertaining two relative surprises.

Of course, posting Rafael Nadal and Andy Roddick in the semifinals is far from a surprise. Both players have been near the top of the sport for close to a decade.

However, when looking at the top half of the draw, there certainly couldn't have been a lot riding on a Robin Soderling vs. Tomas Berdych final four clash.

Nevertheless, even though Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray (all former champions) are ancient news at this point, Friday's semifinals could very well provide enough energy for the crowd at Crandon Park.

Rafael Nadal vs. Andy Roddick

Nadal leads 5-2 in career head-to-head meetings, while splitting four hard-court meetings with Roddick.

The day's first semifinal will pit two of the tournament's most cherished jewels. As usual, Nadal has brought his charismatic ways to Miami, which has been highlighted up by fierce back-court play and a well embraced yellow shirt. What has impressed me the most about Nadal this week has been his ability to hold his serve when he's needed to, while ironing out the kinks in his forehand that had let him down against Ivan Ljubicic in Indian Wells.

Nadal has that look of ruthless abandonment back in his eyes; a look that tells his opponents that he's ready to go the distance at the highest level.

Roddick by similar fashion has held up his end of the deal when serving and playing from the back-court. Fitter than he's ever been, the former U.S. Open champion is playing smarter more veteran tennis these days, upholding a blue-collared mentality, while striking his serve with pin-point accuracy.

Although Roddick continues to play the percentages, he'll need to take bigger cuts off his forehand wing if he's to upset Nadal. Nadal was in full flight agai...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Tennis

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