Now Nalbandian

Is it time to make room for a third at the top of the ranks?  For quite some time, Nadal and Federer have separated themselves from the rest of the pack. Federer has set himself beyond Nadal even. However, for the second time in as many tournaments, David Nalbandian has won his second title at Paris - with both the No. 1 and 2 seeds in his path.

I’m really not here to regurgitate the score (although – 6-4, 6-0 over Nadal…blanking Nadal…seriously?). It’s all over the web, as is plenty of commentary.

No, what I really want to just briefly mention is what this will do. For so long, people, i.e. tennis fans, have grown used to a one-man show. Rogah. Then Nadal came along and shook things up a touch but Federer kept his cool and has managed to keep Nadal at bay on every surface except clay. And then, seemingly out of nowhere, arrives Nalbandian on his white steed.

Obviously I am over-exaggerating. That’s the point of talking about things that everyone else is talking about. But think about it – both the No. 1 and 2 seeds that have dominated the game for quite some time have been ousted two times consecutively.

Nalbandian has a lot to prove. Federer and Nadal have a lot to hang on to. That’s the thing about being at the top. Everybody is gunnin’ for ya. No more surprises. No more come-from-nowhere tricks.

I like the underdog role. It suits me. Personally, I think there is room for a third man at the top. Makes it crowded. And exciting…

One last thing – I’m having a contest! Post your most embarrassing story related to tennis and when the accolades of being able to laugh at yourself over something embarrassing and win a tennis teddy bear from Vermont Teddy Bear.