Random Observations: U.S. Open Edition

In the words of the great San Francisco Chronicle sports columnist Scott Ostler, here are my deep thoughts, cheap shots, and bon mots------regarding the 2010 U.S. Open in Flushing Meadows:



---And just like that, Andy Roddick's hopes of winning his first U.S. Open title since 2003 have vanished. Roddick fell in defeat to the Serbian Janko Tipsarevic in four sets late Wednesday night, conjuring further discussion regarding the state of Roddick's career.



---After Roddick was heroic in defeat in the 2009 Wimbledon final against Roger Federer, it appeared as if Roddick had a very strong chance of winning multiple Grand Slam championships. Sadly, that has not been the case. With each early exit---Roddick was ousted in the third round of last year's open---the window of opportunity for Roddick closes. He still maintains the game's most intimidating serve, a dazzling tour de force that puts all other tennis stars to shame. But Roddick is aging, and his weak showings in recent events perhaps indicate that his time is running out.



---On a positive note, Roddick was a class act in defeat on Wednesday night, offering sincere congratulations and respect to Tipsarevic in the immediate aftermath of defeat.



---Meanwhile, the men's top seed, the great Rafael Nadal, showed surprising signs of struggle on Tuesday night in his opening-round match against Teymuraz Gabashvili. It is far too early for Nadal fans to exert any semblance of panic, as he is still the heavy favorite to win the Open. But it is important for Nadal to dominate Denis Istomin tomorrow night. If he looks shaky yet again, then we have a problem.



---If Nadal is to win the U.S. Open, he must overcome an impressive array of challenges. Two names that have a decnt shot at upending Nadal are Andy Murray and Mardy Fish. Murray, the once-stubborn Brit who used to fade under pressure, has matured significantly. He is now a calm, poised presence on the court, and he is a legitimate contender to win it all this year. On the other hand, you have Mardy Fish, the veteran whose star is starting to rise in the tennis scene. And of course, you have Roger Federer. Even at the twilight of his career, Federer is dangerous, still capable of greatness even while his career is on its last legs.



---On to the women's side of things now, where the absence of Serena Williams due to foot injury, and the shocking early exit of young American Melanie Oudin, has given hope to a myriad of contenders. The favorite remains Caroline Wozniaki, and her upcoming match against fellow contender Maria Sharapova will offer compelling drama. But my money is Serena's sister, Venus Williams. The tendency for many people is to overlook Venus in favor of an up-and-coming youngster, but Venus is just as exemplary as ever.

---I'll end with an appreciation of the U.S. Open, one of my favorite sporting events. I love the rowdy New York atmosphere. Tennis is a beautiful sport as is, but the U.S. Open adds an added sense of excitement, thanks to the passionate New York faithful who fill the seats at Arthur Ashe stadium. Each year of the U.S. Open brings new surprises, and I can't wait to discover what this year has to offer.