15th seed

Just been given a clay court tennis lesson by Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Straight set loss.

Horses for courses, and certain players for certain surfaces.

The slow clay courts of Monte Carlo suit Stefanos perfectly and he has made the most of it.

Not sure whether he can win the tournament as most likely would have to play Novak Djokovic if he get past Jannik Sinner - but would not discount. Will watch his progress with interest.

Overall satisfied with the tournament. 200 ATP points the reward.

Until Madrid - thank you ball persons, thank you Hawkeye.

The 15th seed

15th seed

The first clay court tournament for the year.

Monte Carlo no less. Spectacular venue

Had a first round victory.

In this episode play a South American clay court specialist and after a good win, sets up a match against a top ten player.

Need to compete with players of this standard if to maintain or advance the 15th seed ranking.

Thank you for coming on the journey of the 15th seed throughout the 2024 tennis calendar.

Thank you ball persons, thank you Hawkeye.

The 15th seed

Players ready, play ..............

At Monte Carlo, the first clay court tournament of the 2024 season for the 15th Seed.

First match under the belt. A successful outcome but with a challenging draw ahead with most of the best players in attendance. And why not. A Masters 1000 event in a superb location.

The 15th Seed expands on the assessment of Nick Kyrgios from the last podcast as a result of feedback.

If you wish to join the debate, feel free to do so by email to "idealinsport@gmail.com".

Until the next round ....... thank you ball persons, thank you Hawkeye.

The 15th Seed

Players ready ......... play.

On today's episode, have arrived at Monte Carlo for the start of the clay court season.

Start of the second part of the year.

Whilst not a favourite surface for results, do enjoy Europe and feel fit & ready to perform.

Answer the question of podcast listener Phil A who asks ........ if Nick Kyrgios was to stop his playing career now, where would he rank amongst all time Australian tennis players?.

The 15th seed has expressed a view. Would be interested in your thoughts & comments.

Welcome comments to "idealinsport@gmail.com"

Until the tournament starts.

Thanks you ball persons, thank you Hawkeye.

The 15th Seed

28 March 2024

Into the fourth round at Miami and full of expectation against a top ten player.

That was short lived.

The gulf between the top ten and others was evident.

Overall a solid tournament and one that was much needed. But still more work to be done.

The end of the early US hard Court season. Now off to Europe and the clay.

The 15th seed

March 2024

Miami ATP 1000

After a bye in the first round, have succeeded in winning two rounds.

The second match by the highest of margins.

A third set tie break that could help define the year.

Feeling satisfied, but a top ten player to come. Need to refocus.

A tournament of upsets to date, but the big stars are still in.

Thanks for following the ups & downs of life on the tour. Trust you are enjoying the 15th seed's diary of events.

The 15th seed

March 2024

Miami USA

On the eve of the tournament, the draw is announced.

Have prepared for this tournament as a season defining event.

There is expectation. There is a degree of trepidation.

The 15th seed

17 March 2024

Miami USA

ATP 1000

Prepared like never before. This is a pivotal tournament.

The time on the court, in the gym, running and mental preparation are all covered.

this may well be a season defining tournament.

And the listeners question ....... are there players whose conduct or antics put you off.

Thanks for your company.

The 15th seed