Going the Distance

Speaker 110s - 48.28s

Introducing Coco Golf's ORG signature shoe, more than just a tennis shoe, it's a fusion of 90s-inspired style and cutting-edge performance technology with its sleek mid-cut silhouette. It's designed to enhance speed and power on the court. The multi-piece upper construction delivers high-energy return for players of all levels, whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out.The Coco CG1 empowers you to dominate the game. Learn more and purchase the Cocoa CG1 at New Balance.com ORG. The Road to Rollangueros continues on the red clay in Rome. What a night it was. Welcome to T.C. Live ORG as we get you caught up on all the biggest news and highlights

Speaker 1448.28s - 124.72s

from this last combined 1,000-level event before the tennis world proceeds to Paris GPE. A lot to discuss. The greatest champ in Italian Open history, back for one last dance. See how Raf and Adol lost his footing and got back up to sidestep his first foe. Plus, Coco Gough got through her first test in Rome GPE, but here with the top-ranked American is looking to improve before she gets to Roland Garros FAC.And as Novak Djokovic goes for his seventh title in the Eternal City LOC, find out whether he likes the new two-week format at this Masters EVENT event. Come on into our studios here in Santa Monica, California. A lot to get to today. Steve Weissman alongside the Hall of Famer Tracy Austin PERSON. We got the Hall of Famer, Andy Rodick PERSON, over on the big screen as well.So many big names in action today. But one of the most memorable moments of the day came in the third set between Dan Evans and Fabio Fonini PERSON. We got to show it to you because Fonini was up serving 3-1. It was breakpoint for Dan Evans PERSON. And Fonini PERSON shot right here. Goes out.It was called out by the lines person. You see it right there. But the chair umpire, Mo Liani PERSON gets out of his chair, comes down, and then calls the ball in.

Speaker 6124.72s - 127.58s

In fact, bumps into Dan Evans PERSON.

Speaker 14128.58s - 136.4s

And Evans PERSON is like, show me, show me the mark. But he never did. Also said that the lines person called it in, which they didn't Tracy.

Speaker 9136.48s - 159.7s

And look at the angle of the shot. You can tell that that's coming from a swing volley from inside the court. And for Molyani PERSON to come out of his chair on the opposite side, they rarely overrule a ball there. And also, he should have asked the lines person, did you call that ball in or out and ask the lines person to show where the mark was? Good thing we have the ATP coming in next year with Paukeye PRODUCT on play.

Speaker 14159.82s - 161.7s

Absolutely. Andy PERSON, what did you think of this call?

Speaker 13162.72s - 217.36s

I think it's one of the worst calls I've ever seen. And I'm trying not to say that hyperbolicly. You know, Thugnini PERSON wasn't even offended by it. He wasn't even going to challenge it. You can't you can't overrule the far sideline unless you're positive. And if a ball is out by three inches and you get paid to see things, you can't possibly see it out. And then to double down on wrong, to not ask the umpire.So you get it wrong on the call. You get it wrong on the procedural elements, right? You don't ask the umpire. You overrule the far sideline, which is kind of like a soft rule in tennis. And then you kind of get after Dan Evans PERSON when he's pointing out your stupidity. Like I like Molyani PERSON as a human.Yes. This was horrible. And he does have the reputation for inserting himself into matches. We remember him at the open a couple of years ago getting down and giving Nick Curios PERSON a pep talk in the middle of a match.

Speaker 6217.36s - 220.68s

And I'm going, if I'm playing against Nick Curios PERSON and I'm going, what the hell are you doing?

Speaker 13220.78s - 235.26s

Like, let him default. I want to win this match. This is, you're taking my lunch money if he turns this around. So just bad all around. Dan Evans PERSON, like, he was mad. I can only imagine what would happen if a player bumps an umpire. Right. That's such a good point.

Speaker 14235.26s - 273.2s

I love, by the way, Tracy and Annie PERSON getting so fired up about this. That's why we had to show it at the top of the show. Evans did break in that game, but Fonini PERSON did win the match in the end. He will play Taylor Fritz tomorrow. Let's get to some more highlights on this day. We start with the 10-time champ Rafa Nadal PERSON. He achieved La Decima in Rome three years ago against Novak Djokovic.The fourth time Nadal defeated Djokovic PERSON in the final here. Ropha said after, after achieving 10 in Roland Garros, 10 in Monte Carlo, 10 in Barcelona GPE. I really wanted this one. So Rafa, going for his 70th win in Rome, taking on Zizu Barrags, Andy PERSON. The qualifier was not intimidated against the legend.

Speaker 13274.26s - 355.72s

Yeah, he wasn't intimidated, and this is a... Oh, my, that was gross, Steve PERSON. That was pretty athletic, wasn't it? But Nadal was up 3-1 in the first set, and then was just leaving the ball short, right? The wheels weren't working the way he wanted to, butRafa PERSON being Rafa started bullying that backhand side, started finding his pacing where Borgas PERSON had to choose whether they're cover of forehand or hedge to the backhand, and then Rafa PERSON started bleeding him in the second set a little bit, gettingthe angle on that inside in forehand, and you know what time it is. Let's get up for the 10 time champ this was bananas imagine falling getting up being in perfect stride and then actually playing a good point i don't think people understand how athletic this was and how dumb i would look had i fallen i would have rolled six times and just stayed there uh but rafa is just being raffle look at wherehe's having to cover and then then you have to guess, right? And you know what time it is. It's lawnmower. It's why, Steve PERSON. You know I love the lawnmower from Rafa Nadal PERSON. Not his best match, but really stuck it out.Kept giving away leads. Gave away a 3-1 lead in the first set. And gave away a 3-1 lead in the third set. But Rafa PERSON being Rafa is going to stick this out, save a couple of break points here. And then it gets a go and he says, get up. I've won it 10 times.What the hell? We're already here. We might as well try to make it 11, right, Tracy PERSON?

Speaker 0356.02s - 365.62s

Absolutely. But then just finding, just finding the distance and making Burgs PERSON cover that back inside, may have gotten a bounce there, but says, you know what? I've done this before. I know what to do.

Speaker 14366.2s - 391.62s

Saved all five break points in the final two sets. Picks up his 410th win at the Masters 1,000 level. That's more than anyone in history. It gets Hughie Hercotch PERSON next. Take a look at this. Favorite stops on tour.That is the 70 win club now for Nadal PERSON, joining his total in Monte Carlo, the Australian Open and Roland Garros FAC. Let's hear from Rafa and then Bergels with Prokash PERSON. Today was not a good match for me.

Speaker 10392s - 407.26s

I mean, I didn't play the way that I really think I can play and I need to play. But I was able to find a way to win and that gave me the chance to play in today's game.

Speaker 12407.56s - 428.02s

As I said earlier to my friends, it's definitely living the dream. Honestly, it's living in a highlight reel. Obviously, I'm very grateful to have this tennis life. You know, you see Rafah Nadal PERSON, always on TV when you're young. You call yourself Mini Rafanadal PERSON. You're wearing the same clothes.So I don't have to tell you how special this moment is to play him at this stage.

Speaker 14429.4s - 433.92s

Really encourage you to watch that full interview with Zizu and Prakash PERSON on our social media.

Speaker 12434s - 435.3s

Very thoughtful young player.

Speaker 14435.36s - 436.5s

But let's talk about Raffanadal.

Speaker 12436.56s - 439.52s

He said he didn't play good tennis, but was able to find a way.

Speaker 9439.62s - 483.26s

What was your biggest takeaway for him? Well, as he said, he didn't play as well as he has been practicing. But the biggest takeaway is that he won in the big moments. And that's what champions do. And that's so important because just like getting the groove on your forehand, you get the groove mentally. You saw in that one game when he was serving at 3-2, but went immediately down Love 40, and you're thinking, okay, what's going to happen here? He locks in, he pulls back just10% knowing that he's Roth and Adal PERSON, and the guy on the other side of the court is still going to be feeling a lot of pressure that he's playing his idol. And so Rafa comes back and wins that game four, too, and then was able to eventually serve it out. But I think that those mental reps were so important for Rafa PERSON to not feel completely comfortable, but he's progressing. He's getting better with each match that he plays.

Speaker 13484.44s - 538.2s

Yeah, my take on it was I don't know that default Rafa PERSON, where I mean, even if I hit the ball short, I can run, right? And I can make you have to hit two, three, four, five winners in a point. I don't know that that is readily available at this point. Time is undefeated. He's given it a hell of a run. But I think Rafa is going to have to be more aggressive from the baseline than he's ever had to be on Clay before. I was watching highlights from Rome, the Coria Final in 05, and I was stunned at how fast he was. It's almost like I've forgotten about it. It was insane.So I think that default setting of coming out, working your way into a match like he tried to do in the first set was leaving the ball a little short, and Bergs PERSON was able to push him towards the corners maybe a little easier than was possible with Raffa PERSON before on a clay court. So I just think he's going to have to up his aggressive mindset, maybe 10, 20%, and maybe start swinging out a little bit sooner than he's accustomed to in these clay matches.

Speaker 14538.56s - 555.42s

Erotic doing the deep dive research on Rafa PERSON here. I love to hear that, Andy, and we will look forward to that match against Hubey Hercotch. Let's talk about Hubie's fellow Polish NORP superstar, the top seat on the women's side. That is Iga Svientek. Coming off, her first title in Madrid, going for number three in Rome GPE.

Speaker 9555.52s - 604.38s

Tracy facing American Bernardo Perra. Yeah, Iga has talked about managing this tough schedule now with the longer tournaments in Rome and Madrid. And she did this nicely today. Pera is actually a pretty tough customer on the clay. She tried to loop it up to bother Ega PERSON. No problem. Ega PERSON finding the sidelines consistently. And we see that Ega's backhand down the line. That is probably the most improved shot in the last year. Year and a half, she finds the winners nicely when she needs to on that side. But the key with Ega PERSON is on play.She can be offensive, defensive moves just about better than anybody on this surface, hugs the baseline so as able to find those angles. Pera, she tried to mix it up, but Shiantek PERSON, as she does, smother the ball, smothered para, and just able to find all the answers.

Speaker 14604.68s - 622.24s

What do you know, Ego PERSON on play, another bagel? A seventh straight win, tour leading 31st, the season improves to 15 and 2 in Rome GPE. Naomi Osaka, continuing her comeback, facing 19-seid Mardiostia, Tracy PERSON. Osaka came in 0 for 8 against top 20 players on play.

Speaker 9622.24s - 678.36s

Yeah, this was really an important statement match, I think, for Naomi Osaka PERSON. In Madrid, she lost to Samsonava in three sets. She said, I went to Miorca GPE. I really did a great training block there. I watched some matches of Rafa and Alcaraz PERSON to see, maybe I need to change the way I played on Clay PERSON.And she said, no what, Ossapenko won on Clay PERSON? I can play my game. And she really did. She served extremely well. This is where the rain delay came. And she really did. She served extremely well. This is where the rain delay came. She went to her notebook.We saw that the other day. We tried to cheat and see what she had written. We couldn't see it. But once she came back from the clay, from the rain delay, it was all Osaka PERSON. And Koste, we know how well she's played this year, and particularly in Stuttgart GPE getting to the finals. She had a few more mistakes than possibly the norm,but I think it really has to do so much with the way that Osaka PERSON was serving and the way that she was just hitting the ball to the corners, driving the ball with confidence. Enough shape on the ball for control. Lovely match for her.

Speaker 14679.12s - 694.02s

19 winners to just 12 unforced air. First top 20 win on Clay PERSON since she's still a baby giraffe, learning her steps on this surface. But she's doing pretty well growing up quickly. 2016 Rome GPE runner up. Madison Keys, Andy, had to deal with Mother Nature and Camilla Osorio PERSON.

Speaker 13695.24s - 744.68s

Yeah, and getting used to the conditions in Rome GPE, right? A lot dead or the ball doesn't fly as much. She made a great run in Madrid beating Jabour PERSON and golf along the way. But from that middle of the court, she knows what to do with that forehand. That same forehand got away from her a little bit in the second set here. Cruises in the first set and second set, Osorio PERSON able to kind of grind back.And you don't see Maddie PERSON missed these forehands very often. You can see she's not real happy about it. And this is another one here, downset points. So kind of has to regroup the middle of the court. That is normally cash in the bank for Maddie Keyes PERSON. But when you played a lot of matches, you just get right back to business.You see just overpowering, taking the swing, big swings to the big parts of the court. I know our guy Paul Anakone PERSON is loving that. Get through, survive, advance, get use of the conditions for the next one.

Speaker 14744.88s - 759.98s

Yeah, she told Prokosh PERSON. She was thinking about that Taylor Fritz, Six Love Jenks after the first set, but able to move on. How about Coco Golf has won 29 of her last 31 matches against players outside the top 30, facing Magdalena Freck, Tracy, who's 0 and 12 against the top 10.

Speaker 9759.98s - 782.66s

Yeah, we feel like Coco PERSON is going to get through this match, but how well does she get through this match? Things we look for, the forehand. That was really good today, driving through the contact point. And then the other one is the serve for Cocoa Golf PRODUCT. She's been averaging about nine double faults in her clay court matches this year. She got nine today.So she wants to cut that out. That's really where she needs to clean it up. And she said that.

Speaker 6782.94s - 799.28s

Going into the French, she feels like she wants to serve better. She's working on her technique with Brad PERSON just a little bit on the serve. So you might expect it to be a little rough around the edges. But overall, I think this was a really positive match for Coco PERSON. Straight sets, pretty straightforward. She's not like us.

Speaker 14799.28s - 858.94s

Also said after the match, Team Kendrick, much like Naomi Osaka. 28 winners did have nine double faults, something that she is working on. But you can win in straight sets and do that. Progress for Coco Golf PERSON. When we come back, we'll give you an update on when we will see world number five American Jesse Pagula PERSON back on court. And with so many spectacular shots on display today, who will get the ultimate hot shot? Here's a hint. It happened on Match Point style and cutting-edge performance technology with its sleek mid-cut silhouette.

Speaker 2859.24s - 861.74s

It's designed to enhance speed and power on the court.

Speaker 11861.92s - 870.16s

The multi-piece upper construction delivers high-energy return for players of all levels, whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out. The Cocoa CG1

Speaker 2870.16s - 906s

empowers you to dominate the game. Learn more and purchase the Cocoa CG1 PRODUCT at newbalance.com. The President Oh! Oh! Oh!

Speaker 11906s - 907s

Oh!

Speaker 5907s - 911s

Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh!

Speaker 4911s - 1087.66s

Oh! One more than a second. Good! Oh! Oh! The One more than a second. One more than a second. for you for school. You know, Tracy, Eddie, Steve, back with you on TC. Live. Our coverage on T2 from Rome begins 5 a.m. Eastern, and these matches begin at 8 a.m.

Speaker 61087.66s - 1089.72s

Eastern with Leif Chiris and Jan Michael Gamble PERSON.

Speaker 41089.82s - 1092.64s

We've got Sophia Cannon taken on Algebert PERSON.

Speaker 61092.8s - 1094.22s

Cannon PERSON, big lead in the head-to-head.

Speaker 41094.3s - 1095.64s

We'll break it down later in the show.

Speaker 31095.94s - 1098.5s

Plus, Gregor Dimitroff and Yoshi Nishioca PERSON.

Speaker 51099.16s - 1104.12s

More highlights from today, American Marcos Girone, Andy, hoping to approve to 3-0 against

Speaker 41104.12s - 1107.02s

Emil Rousse Savori. But this is their first match on Clay PERSON.

Speaker 31108.36s - 1114.28s

Yeah, changes it a bit, and Rousse d'Ory was able to get out to a hot start here, Steve PERSON.

Speaker 141114.88s - 1120.74s

Jerome likes to run, but Rousibori PERSON really tricky with those kind of mid-court balls,

Speaker 21120.9s - 1124.34s

hitting the little chipper Magoo, and then coming in and sticking the volley.

Speaker 141124.76s - 1126.02s

But Garon PERSON is a fighter.

Speaker 131126.14s - 1161.66s

He is going to make you earn everything. And Roussabour PERSON did not earn it with that for. And that was Flagg City GPE. Not a good-looking ball there. And then Jerome PERSON with this big serve out wide, not something that he has known for, but sneaky, effective serve. And then, listen, you know, Jerome PERSON's not going to get tired.He's got those quadzillas down there moving around the court. You see him moving, taking a shot. And he says, I'm sorry, bro. Like, I'm really not. I'm not sorry. I'm so happy that that happened.But I will fain regret anyways for the highlight. And then he says, hey, hey, hey, look at me. I got ahead.

Speaker 141162s - 1180.66s

I got ahead. The original quad father snapping a four-match slide, picks up his first win since Houston GPE. You got a chipper Magoo in there, a little flag city. Fellow UCLA Bruin, NCAA, NCHET, Manki McDonald PERSON, back going court for the first time since Australia GPE.Andy, taken on Aslon Karatsev PERSON. Good start for the American NORP here.

Speaker 131181.64s - 1229.08s

That's right. He says, you have calves. I have calves. We all have the glorious cabs, Steve. But McDonald wins the first here. That's right. He says, you have cabs. I have calves. We all have the glorious cabs, Steve. But McDonald wins the first set. And Kratzv PERSON, that's the ball that you're not expecting from him. And then this one inside in. That is where he makes his living, is taking that forehand from that side and hitting it flat inside in. Tough to defend when he's hitting it well. It's a high-risk shot.But that's the one. That's the one that he knows he has all the time. And if he's hitting that one down the line from the deuce side, then we got some problems, Steve PERSON. And this might be the shot of the year to finish a match. You know, I like a relevant hot shot up the line for the wind.That is disgustingly awesome. Even after that, Mackey PERSON goes, hey, bro, that was pretty cool.

Speaker 91229.96s - 1236.86s

And he didn't he slowed down for that one? I think he could have actually hit a forehand. He slowed down so he hit the tweener. Unbelievable.

Speaker 141237.02s - 1238.74s

Whatever he did, it was, whatever he did, it was right.

Speaker 131239s - 1239.4s

Unbelievable.

Speaker 141239.9s - 1241.06s

How about American Sloan Stevens PERSON?

Speaker 131241.36s - 1244.14s

Nine and two record on clay this season, taken on Yulia Putin PERSON.

Speaker 141244.32s - 1244.62s

Save it.

Speaker 131244.62s - 1247.16s

Tracy, but Putsi PERSON, been equally efficient on the dirt.

Speaker 141247.36s - 1251.16s

This was going to be an interesting match because they'd both been playing so well.

Speaker 131251.28s - 1253s

Putin-Sovina PERSON gets the break there.

Speaker 91253.58s - 1257.96s

Both have so much variety, but Putin PERSON-Savut drop shot after drop-shot,

Speaker 141258.64s - 1261.96s

bringing Sloan Stevens forward where she was uncomfortable today.

Speaker 91262.12s - 1293.58s

Putin-Savid PERSON doing a terrific job with so much variety using all parts of the court, using the chips, using the top spin to loop it out of Sloan PERSON's strike zone. Got to the quarterfinals in Madrid. Quarterfinals actually in Miami, so Putin Sava PERSON has a lot of match wins recently, playing with confidence, gets the break again there, just break after break. And actually, Putin Sava PERSON did a great job of saving her own break points. Three out of four.And really tidy match here for Putin Saba against Sloan Stevens PERSON, who loves the dirt.

Speaker 141294.14s - 1304.84s

Yeah, Putin Sava, six and one on play this season, gets the challenge of Igish Fiantic in the third round. Emma Navarro making a Rome debut is the 21st seat. Tracy facing Paula Bedosa PERSON. This was a good one.

Speaker 91305.08s - 1352.8s

It was. Emma DeVarro, I call her the winning machine in 2024. Even the last 12 months, she gets that first set, 6-1 so easily. And Bedosa PERSON, a few many mistakes, and she looked a little frustrated. But what changed in the second set, the forehand of Bedosa PERSON started finding its mark. And we know that's one of her big assets along withthe serve, a clean ace to get that second set. And then in the third set, Bidosa PERSON even looked more impressive. Look like the Paula Bidosa that got to as high as number two in the world. We know that Bidosa in the far court loves to play on play, but Navarro does too. So this was quite an interesting matchup so early in the tournament. Bedosa PERSON trying to get her ranking back up. This actually would be her biggest win of the year.

Speaker 141353.08s - 1368.8s

Yeah, certainly. That back injury. And backs it up after that win over Mira Andreeva PERSON as well. Come back over an in-form Emma Navarro PERSON. Good stuff for Paula Bedosa PERSON. No public relationship anymore, Andy PERSON. And now a new lease on life and on the court.

Speaker 131369.82s - 1400.2s

Yeah, I'd rather talk about health and form, right? It was this tournament a year ago where she found out she had a fracture on her spine, which is no, no small injury. There's no way to get away from that as a tennis player. It's great to see her healthy again. It's great to see the decision making intact. I mean, listen, I don't know that Vegas GPE would have had her getting through Andrava and Navarro first two rounds, very competent Claycourt players. These are two really, really, really good wins for Bidosa PERSON back to back. Hopefully, this is the turn we've been looking for.

Speaker 91400.6s - 1424.02s

Absolutely, Andy. And you know, it's been hard to watch Paola PERSON come back and then kind of have that slide again because of the back. And then she comes back again and it's been up and down. That's so frustrating as an athlete, so frustrating as a player. So hopefully this will be her springboard. And it makes sense on Clay PERSON. She's so good on the surface. So I think this is the kind of confidence that she really needs to give her that boost. Next match, most important. She told

Speaker 141424.02s - 1441.12s

Perkosha, after her first win, that needs to be able to get through three matches in a row. Physically. Haven't been able to do that all year. Next match, most important, she told Perkosh after her first win, that needs to be able to get through three matches in a row. Physically. Haven't been able to do that all year. So we'll see if she can do that. If so, Paula Bedosa, somebody to look out for on the road to Roland Garros FAC.Tough day, though, for Americans, Andy, in Rome GPE. Look at all these elves. Not the ones.

Speaker 131441.22s - 1459.38s

This is not what we wanted to see. Sarah Ronnie PERSON toughen out. She's never easy, especially in an Italian NORP crowd. Queen Wen, we'll see that highlight a little bit later, but she looked great. JJ Wolf going down, needs to start winning some matches and Nakashima PERSON the same. So not the time of year for the Americans, but hey, we're trying, Steve PERSON.

Speaker 141459.68s - 1498.3s

We're trying. That's all you can do. Try harder, I guess. Still to come, he is the top seed and number one player in the world, but Novak Djokovic still in search of his first title this year. Andy and Tracy tell you if he will find it in Rome. Hey, hey, it's Kaylee Cuoco for Priceline ORG.

Speaker 71500.38s - 1515.5s

Ready to go to your happy place for a happy price? Well, why didn't you say so? Just download the Priceline app right now and save up to 60% on hotels. So, whether it's Cousin Kevin's Kazoo concert in Kansas City, go Kevin, or Becky's Bachelorette Bash in Bermuda. You never have to miss a trip ever again. So download the Priceline app today.

Speaker 41515.5s - 1524.06s

Your savings are waiting. Go to your happy place for a happy price. Go to your happy price,

Speaker 21524.4s - 1535.32s

price line. Austin Rodick Weishman back on T.C. Live ORG.

Speaker 141535.46s - 1538.1s

There are some immortal athletes in the Eternal City LOC,

Speaker 21538.5s - 1542.42s

and the fans know they are in the presence of everlasting greatness.

Speaker 141542.72s - 1576.18s

Look at how they surround six-time champ Novak Djokovic. Looks like he's in the Popemobile FAC here. Djokovic has won two of the last four titles and arrives as the top seed and world number one. Incredible scenes there. Take a look at what Novak Djokovic has been able to do.Here in Rome, six-time champ, 12 finals and 17 appearances. 67 wins overall. That is just three shy of Raf and Adol PERSON. Also the oldest ever champ a couple of years ago. Let's hear from Djokovic before he goes for a seventh title.

Speaker 01577.72s - 1610.76s

Hopefully here in Rome I can play better than I did in Monte Carlo GPE. And, you know, that's the wish obviously it's always to go far but let's see you know it's a different concept now you know it's a first time that Rome and Madrid are almost two weeks events like in then Wales Miami GPE so you know it gives you I guess more time to recover between matches if you keep going in the tournament, which I think is useful for me.

Speaker 141612.44s - 1626.44s

Two-week draw? Good thing for Novak Djokovic, as you say, take a look at his draw, starting out against quarantine Mutei, but it's not about the draw for me, Andy PERSON. It's about Novak Djokovic. He is the world number one. What are your expectations for him? Yeah, this is a about the draw. For me, Andy, it's about Novak Djokovic. He is the world number one. What are your expectations for him?

Speaker 131627.74s - 1664.44s

Yeah, this is a good starting draw. What you don't want when you haven't played is someone who's just going to come and not give you any rhythm, right? Like a Karatsev PERSON, who's just going to kind of hit the ball flat to the corners. He's going to get into some rallies with Mutted PERSON. He's going to get into some rallies with Tabilo PERSON also. Also, what needs to be said, after looking at that resume,six-time winner in Rome, he's won multiple Roland Garros FAC titles. Why don't we talk about him as one of the best Clay Court FAC players ever? Like, we're dumb for not doing that. Like, we don't know about his fitness. We haven't seen him on the court since Monte Carlo GPE, assuming it's as good as it's always been. You know, he's got to be near the top of the favorites list, for sure.

Speaker 141664.92s - 1667.32s

He is one of the greatest Clay Court players of all time. By the way for sure. He is one of the greatest Claycourt LOC players of all time.

Speaker 131667.38s - 1669.9s

By the way, Roger Federer, one of the greatest Claycore LOC players of all the time.

Speaker 41669.9s - 1672.84s

The reason we don't say it is because we've got that guy, Raf and Adol PERSON.

Speaker 131673.4s - 1677.02s

Who's got like 10, 10 here, 11 there, 12 there, 14 there.

Speaker 41677.74s - 1687.76s

Tracy, semifonels, Monty Carlis, only the fourth event of the season for Novak Djokovic, but says he is peaking for Roland Garros FAC. That is his goal, that and the Olympics EVENT.

Speaker 91688.5s - 1744.56s

Yeah, and I think because he's 36, he really is trying to stay fresh for the biggest events, the majors and the Olympics EVENT, which, by the way, he hasn't won. And Novak PERSON touched upon it. These tournaments are now two weeks, and they're playing a lot of tournaments, a lot of matches.It's a lot of time. And now he got Alcarez PERSON out. We've got Cinner PERSON out. And then Novak PERSON comes in. He's had a two-week training block. He's been here four or five days, practice sets with some of the other guys.He's got a new coach, Nenad Ziminich PERSON, new fitness trainer, he said, who he's worked with before. So I actually think he's really in a good place. The guy doesn't lack for experience. So, yes, he's only played four events, including the United Cup EVENT. But this is a guy that can ramp it up quickly.And I do think that the draw is important, as Andy PERSON said. That's a draw that's workable, that you win and you keep having that day off for practice and you keep working your way through a tournament. That's so important for even Novak PERSON, who hasn't played a lot, but he can work his way through.

Speaker 141744.88s - 1766.7s

Looking forward to seeing him start off against quarantine Mute PERSON. Let's see what's trending inside the social net. Steve Tickner, writing a great piece on Tennis.com ORG about the Rothenedal Novak Djokovic rivalry, specifically in Rome. They have played a men's record 59 times against each other, but nine times in Rome beginning in 2007, some incredible matches, Andy PERSON.

Speaker 131767.86s - 1798.24s

Yeah, listen, we didn't know that Federer had a weakness until someone like Rafa PERSON came along. We didn't know that Rathlet's forehand cross court could be teamed until Novak Djokovic comes along and can hit backhands up the line from above his head. Like, I love how these greats of all time have pushed each other. I had a front row seat that I didn't always enjoy. But as a spectator, I love how these greats of all time have pushed each other. I had a front row seat that I didn't always enjoy. But as a spectator, I love to see it, often forgotten thatthey've played more than the Roger Raffel rivalry, the Novak Roger PERSON rivalry. Listen, they don't play

Speaker 91798.24s - 1802.2s

for small titles these two. I'm just happy that they're both in the same tournament. It's

Speaker 131802.2s - 1824.14s

been a while. I think it's the Australian Open 2023. We know Rafa, it's his last Rome GPE. He's told us that not at the tip top, but we're curious to see where he is. And actually, we're curious to see where Novak PERSON is because he's played so little. So the dynamic and how wide open Rome is and even Roland Garros FAC moving forward because those other guys are injured. It'll be interesting. Yeah, they've brought the best out of each other.

Speaker 141824.2s - 1846.56s

In fact, one of these two has won 16 of the last 19 Italian NORP opens. That's incredible, incredible stuff. Jesse Pagool PERSON, this is in doubt. This according to her says, I actually feel really good, but have to work back into training at a snail's place. Last played at the BJK Cup in April and says she injured herself before Madrid, Tracy PERSON.

Speaker 91847.18s - 1876.28s

Yeah, and I haven't heard what the injury is, but Jessica Bagula PERSON of all people has been one that has just been such a workhorse. She plays all the time, plays doubles included, so few top players play doubles. And oftentimes at the major, she'll even play Knicks ORG doubles. We saw her not play in the Middle East LOC because of a neck neck injury. So we know that she has a new coach in Mark Knowles PERSON. And Jesse PERSON will come back when she is good and ready.And I can't wait for it because I love to watch her compete.

Speaker 131877.88s - 1918.54s

Yeah, it's actually a rivendroes, Texas with Jesse a couple of weeks ago. Listen, if we're being very honest about this, Jesse Pagula's PERSON upside on clay is less than it is on every other surface. If you are trying to get healthy, get fit. Jesse Pagula's PERSON game is fantastic for grass. We forget that she was up for one and third against Von Drozaba PERSON.So if you have any scare for an injury and you know that your upside is more significant at Wimbledon EVENT than many, maybe any other major. I think this is right. Let's get healthy. Let's attack the rest of the season. It's been a rough start to the year through no fault over her own.Just unfortunate. That's the way it goes sometimes. But I like Jesse Paguel PERSON on grass. And I hope she's healthy for it.

Speaker 141918.7s - 1992.42s

All right. So a rib injury for Jesse Pagula PERSON. And that's a great point. Made third round of Rolongeros last year. But quarterfinals at Wimbledon with a great chance to make the final four. Here's our schedule on Friday.Live tennis begins on T2.5 a.m. Eastern TIME. The night session starting at 1 p.m. Eastern, and of course, the three of us back on T.C. Live at 5 Eastern encore coverage from Rome all night long. We will break down some of those matchups when the show rolls on. Welcome back, Roland Garros FAC is almost here. Tennis Channel, Tennis Channel Plus and T2 will once again bring you extensive daily live coverage from Paris GPE. Don't miss any of the Grand Slam excitement on the Terebatu beginning Sunday, May 26,at 5 a.m. Eastern. And don't forget our special Roland Garros T.C. Live pregame show from Paris is on Saturday, May 25th, 11 a.m. Eastern, again at 8 p.m. Eastern. With Martina Navratilova, Prakash Amitraj, John Wertheim, and myself, it'll get you ready for the year's second major. Time now for our hot shot of the day, Andy PERSON, and we go back to what you called the point of the year, potentially.

Speaker 131993.18s - 1998.58s

I'm so happy this is the choice, because otherwise we would have done our last show together. Steve PERSON, this is fantastic.

Speaker 141998.58s - 1999.9s

No, don't say anything so.

Speaker 62000.6s - 2005.84s

Matt's point line just freezes Mackie PERSON at the net.

Speaker 132005.96s - 2013.86s

I could watch that over and over. Even Mackey PERSON does. Look at he's smiling. No one smiles when they lose 6'4 in the 30. He's even smiling. He gets it.A tweeter winner on Match Point ORG.

Speaker 142013.96s - 2016.46s

I mean, the significance. And to come up with that shot.

Speaker 132016.9s - 2017.06s

Yeah.

Speaker 62017.46s - 2042.54s

That's best of the best number one. I don't know what's going to beat that right now. But that's why they play the games. We got a big time lineup for you on this Friday. Novak Djokovic in action, Arena Savalanka, Danielle Collins, playing Anna Blinkova, Taylor Fritz PERSON, Elena Rabakana. By the way, she's your returning champion Rome GPE on the women's side.Nobody's talking about her. Ben Shelton as well. Let's head back to our desk in Rome GPE for a preview with Danny and Prokosh PERSON.

Speaker 82043.4s - 2052.4s

Great, see you back here at our Fandual ORG desk. Prococh, Danielle Collins PERSON, was your dark horse to make a deep run in this tournament. Why do you think she's going to do well against Anna Blinkova PERSON?

Speaker 12052.6s - 2074.68s

Well, very simply, just the form that she's been in. I think she has a shot to do really well here, but let's take it one match at a time. She's been playing great after Miami, continued in Charleston, of course, and then continued in Madrid GPE. Blancova PERSON's been really struggling. She lost five matches in a row coming into this event. Managed to get a good win over Diane Perry, but I think just two ends of the spectrum on form,and I think the American NORP is going to get off to a great start.

Speaker 82074.9s - 2082.9s

Looking forward to seeing the American NORP in action. In fact, looking forward to see all the action here in Rome on Friday. It's going to be fun. All right, thanks so much.

Speaker 142083.02s - 2099.72s

Can't bet against the Danimal ORG. Speaking of Americans in action, we've got Sonia Cannon PERSON taken the court, and she is playing Anjabur PERSON. Cannon was feisty, Tracy, in her first round win against Bronsetti PERSON. She was going at the crowd. I'd love to see that.Actually, lead Jebber four one head to head. So who do you give the edge to tomorrow?

Speaker 92099.72s - 2127.48s

That is so interesting because they haven't played since 2021. So that's kind of like another time zone for both of them. Both of them have been struggling the last six months to a year for Kenan PERSON. For Jabr, certainly this year. And they're trying to get back on track. Jabur looked much better in Madrid GPE in getting to the quarterfinals.She was just all out of sorts with injuries, couldn't find the range. Sonia Kennan just three match wins. Who do I pick? Tough one. She looked great, but I'm going to go with Jibur. Going with J, just three match wins. Who do I pick? Tough one. She looked great, but I'm going to go with Jabur PERSON.

Speaker 142127.74s - 2129.68s

Going with Jabr PERSON here. Andy PERSON, what do you think?

Speaker 132130.68s - 2159.84s

Yeah, I actually think this is kind of a pick-a-match, but I think Jabr, to Tracy PERSON's point, looked much better in Madrid GPE. Her shot tolerance was better. She was getting out of the corners a little bit better when she can firm up her rally ballthat opens up all the creativity, right? You have to stick someone to where they, you know, a foot or two behind the baseline and not in, in order for those drop shots to work in order to bring out the flare of Jebore PERSON. This is an interesting matchup, though. It's going to be a lot of breaks in this one. Neither one serves the other off the court.But I think I think I liked your work.

Speaker 142160.22s - 2165.52s

It should be a good test for both of these players on the way to Paris GPE. Kenon has made a final at Roland Garros FAC before.

Speaker 92165.96s - 2184.92s

A lot of drop shots. A lot of drop shots. A lot of feel in that matchup. Ben Shelton got a winning dubs today. He's playing with Alexander Boublec PERSON. Took out Francis Tiafo, Felix Oje Ali Assim PERSON. So getting a little feel, Andy, for the courts there in Rome GPE.Tomorrow, taking on Pavel Kotoff PERSON in singles. What makes this a successful singles event if you're Ben Shelton PERSON?

Speaker 132185.98s - 2222.1s

Winning matches, right? On a surface that maybe you're not fluent. And yet, we forget that the guy was in school until, you know, recently until 18 months ago. So it hasn't gotten a lot. I only had a passport, I think, 18 months ago. So listen, still finding his pacing, obviously played well in Houston, want to match to Madrid GPE, needs to get through matches against players ranked lower than him. Kodoff PERSON probably a little bit more comfortable on the clay. But Ben PERSON has some significant upside.He can get the ball to jump up and away here. The serve shouldn't be thwarted too much because he has so much variety and so much kick. And I like Ben in this one, but I've been impressed with Kodaf the last couple weeks.

Speaker 92222.5s - 2230.56s

Yeah, I love Ben on Clay PERSON eventually. I do now, but I think he's only going to get better the way that he can use the kick on that second serve,

Speaker 82230.98s - 2234.2s

loop that forehand out of everybody's strike zone.

Speaker 02234.3s - 2247.9s

He can come to the net. He can use the slice. I actually love that he's playing doubles. You know, a lot of young players don't play doubles, but he's so fit. He's getting those secondary shots, the nuanced shots, and I think that's eventually going to help his career become a more complete player.

Speaker 142248.24s - 2252.54s

Looking forward to that matchup. Sean Holt, graduating tomorrow. So Tracy PERSON's going to go

Speaker 92252.54s - 2265.44s

to the graduation. Congratulations, Shawnee. And that means Jim Curry PERSON are going to be with us on T.C. Live tomorrow. But a big day for the last of your three boys. That's right. No more tuitions. I get get a race thank you very much

Speaker 142265.44s - 2273.44s

well we leave you that's awesome where they go we leave you with this and he uh once again moleani

Speaker 132273.44s - 2280.2s

oh boxing out dan i mean he what is he like is this like yokech and like enbeated in the paint

Speaker 142280.2s - 2283.94s

like what's going on and then he comes up here boognini PERSON's smiling because you know he got away with

Speaker 132283.94s - 2287.22s

something leon he's smiling because he knows his mistake's not got a cost of money.

Speaker 142287.6s - 2288.38s

Dan Evans PERSON is pissed.