Thursday, August 15, 2013

 

Good morning from the Lindner Family Tennis Center where it’s going to be another busy and exciting day of Western & Southern Open tennis!

 

And we thank our fans again for making it another sold out day for the Thursday matches! This reminder, whether you’re heading out for the day or evening sessions, please come early. You’ll have an easier time getting into the grounds and getting better parking. And when you come early, that gives you time to walk around the Tennis Center, enjoy music and a bite to eat before the matches.

 

Now, to the headlines of the day: Defending champion Roger Federer will be facing Tommy Haas on Center Court as the third matchup of the day there. Federer has defeated Haas 11 of the last 14 times they’ve played.

 

Center Court opens with Victoria Azarenka and Magdalena Rybarikova, then Western & Southern Open finalist Novak Djokovic against qualifier David Goffin. Remember, Djokovic is going after the master’s slam—the Western & Southern Open is the only Masters tournament he has yet to win.

 

Wimbledon winner Andy Murray faces Julien Benneteau in the Grandstand Court, and after the men the women take over as Petra Kvitova faces Caroline Wozniacki.

 

American John Isner and Montreal finalist Milos Raonic also play in the day session on court nine, along with Agnieszka Radwanska facing Elena Vesnina. Vesnina advances after defeating Venus Williams Tuesday.

 

Evening play features Rafael Nadal against Grigor Dimitrov on Center Court and the final match is top seed Serena Williams against Mona Barthel. Also this evening, doubles top seed Bob and Mike Bryan will face Jeremy Chardy and Richard Gasquet.

 

While you’re here, stop by the UC Health tent and pick up a rally towel! UC Health will offer

 

And we can’t preview the day without saying thanks and best wishes to Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli, who overnight announced her retirement after Wednesday’s loss. She is a humble and deserving champion and we are proud to have had her play here at the Western and Southern Open. All the best, and thank you.