Yeah, I think you’re probably right – Roger cares a lot more about the “old” status quo than Rafa.

I hope Roger can find a way to beat Murray! It will be interesting to see how the “rivalry” translates to clay.

Murray is going on a rampage. I’m thinking AO Champ for him. I just hope it’s not too boring.

So far I haven’t seen that Rafa is very worried about losing matches or his ranking. Roger, as much as I adore him, seems much more attached to keeping the status quo (you know, the one where he dominates). His statements about Rafa’s “one dimensional” game a few years ago and the statements he issued today about Murray (where he also burned the WTA– a sense a bit of bitterness!) seem much more like an aversion to a changing conversation. Poor Rog seems stunned by Murray, possibly even more than he was by Rafa through all those matches. I guess having a very bad head-to-head with TWO guys is worse, but I’d be watching Roger for back-handed statements more than Rafa…

Oh Rog, you make my heart ache Watching him lose to Mandy again this morning was terrible.

My point with this post is that with all the super talented players coming up the ranks and showing they can take on Rafa and Roger, the conversation is going to change. And as the ATP World Order shifts, I think it will be a tough adjustment for both players and fans alike. It’s a stretch, but maybe Rafa’s undying love for Fed is also a love for the status quo.

Rafa has had the opportunity to idolize Roger while he was only a few years younger and to play against him several times during Roger’s best years. Why wouldn’t he be a huge Federer fan? He has no reason to hate and he’s shown himself to be consistently humble. Even Uncle Toni (see the recent Times article) praises Fed while coaching Rafa.

I just wish players were allowed to be kind and complimentary without arousing instant suspicion. That’s a very sad state of things in my opinion.

Maybe Rafa and Roger will finally play together this year! I’m surprised they’ve never done it before (yes I know Rafa’s asked him.) Even an exhibition would be fun.

2Hander – don’t worry, we all follow Van around!

Pamala – it’s good to have you back, too!

I think it is a motivational tactic in some ways – but a benevolent one.

But I’m curious – no one else sees it as a coping mechanism to handle the fact that he and Roger might not be on top much longer? I guess we just have to see how it all plays out.

And Van, I’m not following you around – honest!

Well, I think Rafa can respect Roger off the court as much as he wants. On court, he still gives those fist pumps, cries of “Vamos!” and dirty looks as those he’s trying to hit on his daughter! I mean, it didn’t stop him comprehensively whupping Roger at RG (with the bagel at the end for good measure)!! Maybe some nerves got to him a bit during the Wimby final due to where he was playing, i.e. Roger’s house!

There may also be an element of playing down his rapid success, progress and future potential…

Remember last year when Djoko was coming close to his number-two spot and Rafa practically saying he deserved it? Not only did he hold Djoko off, but he ended up at number 1. So I wonder if he’s really that respectful of guys or if it’s a motivational tactic.

As to the rise of the young guns–it’s certainly the writing on the wall. Gulbis and certainly Murray should be making some noise in the not so distant future, so it will be interesting to see where Roger and Rafael fall when those two perfect their games.

Glad to see you back. You were missed!