« I think it’s the eyes | Home | Um… »

Insane in the membrane

I really used to get into tennis hardcore during my teens and early 20’s. I haven’t been a very diligent fan of the sport in recent years, although I try to check out the Grand Slam finals whenever I can. As I sat at home tonight, eagerly awaiting tomorrow’s Broncos/Steelers matchup, I figured I’d give the Australian Open a little bit of my time.

Holy Baghdatis!

I don’t know if it’s always like this when he plays, but Cyprus’ Marcos Baghdatis is a freakin’ thrill to watch! Why? His fans are crazy! It’s like watching European soccer! After every single point, his loyal legions engage in a raucous yet organized chant that FA Premier League fans would be proud of. In fact, after his last match, Baghdatis had to ask his peeps to tone it down a notch. Tonight’s contingent apparently isn’t even close to his normal mob.

Tennis needs this kind of stuff. With improvements in technology taking some of the action out of men’s tennis in the modern era, fan involvement like this brings some much-needed energy back to the sport. I love it. As of right now, Baghdatis is up 6-4, 0-5 against the #2-seed, Andy Roddick. Good stuff.

Plus, Sharapova’s playing later. She’s hot.