Stepanek Puts On Clay Court Display In Nearly Beating Murray

Andy Murray defeated Radek Stepanek in 5 magnificent sets in the first round of the French Open in a match that extended from Monday into Tuesday due to darkness. The match was a perfect example of the beauty of clay court tennis when played at the highest level. Stepanek, the oldest man in the draw and primarily a doubles specialist these days, actually had to play through the qualifying tournament in order to get into the singles draw. But he showed how clay court tennis allows a player to use every conceivable shot and the slow surface requires players to actually craft points. Stepanek did not serve big, he had only 5 aces in the match I believe, and he certainly did not overpower Murray with his groundstrokes. But he used the combination of deep and accurate shots, both on his serve and with his groundstrokes; low, flat shots that stayed down, allowing him to come to net for easy winners when he could; fantastic volleying skill; and well executed drop shots. Putting these all together, he was able to move Murray all over the court and nearly pull off a tremendous upset. And that's why I love the French Open and clay court tennis.