KRISTEN’S KOURT: RODDICK EXITS WIMBLEDON IN AN EMOTIONAL FAREWELL

Written by: Staff on 1st July 2012

KRISTEN'S KOURT: RODDICK EXITS WIMBLEDON IN AN EMOTIONAL FAREWELL

epa03289895 Andy Roddick of the US returns to David Ferrer of Spain during their third round match for the Wimbledon Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis Club, in London, Britain, 30 June 2012. EPA/ANDY RAIN |

By Kristen Tracy

Judging by his reaction walking off Centre Court after his loss to David Ferrer, this could have very well been the last Wimbledon for American Andy Roddick. A tournament where he once flourished and was considered to be a favorite, Roddick may find himself saying goodbye permanently to the one tournament he was never able to win.

As both players took to court earlier in the day, Roddick knew he was never considered to be the favorite. Ferrer, who is unarguably one of the fastest players on the tour, has a game that is strongly suited for the fast-paced nature of the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club (AELTC) grass courts. It was a great match from both players, coming down only to a few points that unfortunately went against the American.

No one can ever say that Andy Roddick doesn’t try hard enough. The guy will turn 30 in exactly two months. And for someone who’s been on the pro tour for almost half his life (12 years to be exact), it’s only natural that he start to feel a little burnt out. But people also need to keep in mind that Roddick has won at least one title every year since he turned pro. The only other player to accomplish such a feat is Roger Federer – pretty good company if you ask me.

Though his future at The AELTC may be uncertain, he can be pleased in knowing that he will always be a fan favorite. As he walked off Centre Court, you could see the tears begin to well up in his eyes. And the kiss he blew to the crowd (something I don’t think I’ve ever seen him do in all the matches and titles he’s won) all but said “thanks for everything.”

So what does the future hold for the former world no. 1?

“If I don’t have a definitive answer in my own mind, it’s going to be tough for me to articulate a definitive answer to you,” Roddick said. “I’m proud that I’ve been very dedicated to my craft. There aren’t many days when I go to sleep wondering if I could have done more as far as preparation or work or effort,” he added. “So that makes it easier to walk off the court and be proud.”

But his fellow players (along with myself and many members of 10sballs.com, I’m sure) have nothing but respect for Roddick, who will undoubtedly go down as one of the greatest grass court players ever. Ferrer, along with longtime friend Mardy Fish recognize that Roddick’s presence on the tour will never be forgotten. And don’t count Roddick out of the 2013 Championships just yet.

“I’m assuming he’ll come back, but if he doesn’t, you know, (he’d be) one of the best to never win Wimbledon, for sure,” said Fish, who booked his place in the fourth round on Saturday. “I know that he wanted it badly.”

Couldn’t have said it any better myself.

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Topics: 10sballs.com, All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club, Andy Roddick, David Ferrer, Sports, Tennis News