Popcorn 2008 Tennis Awards

I have been dying to write about the 2008 Popcorn Tennis Awards but it has been overshadowed by things like Novak Djokovic and Maria Sharapova winning Australian Open titles. Like that is a big deal or something.

(By the way – the “t” on my keyboard is being a bit obstinate and not wanting to work so I am not liable for any missed “t’s” following this disclaimer.)

This is the inaugural edition of the Popcorn Tennis Awards and is aimed at those who have made a valuable contribution to the Australian Open…but not necessarily on the court. Here are some of the best.

“Value for Money” Award: Marcos Baghdatis wins this award for the two five-setters and one four-setter he played.

“Best Impression of a Fly” Award: Yuri Sharapov wins it. Ask Darren Saligari, the author of the Popcorn Tennis Awards, for an explanation. I’m not sure he has one for you though.

“More Bling Than Tiffany’s” Award: Do you even need to be told? Venus Williams, of course.

“Best One Liner” Award: Andy Roddick for this little gem – “Stay in school kids, you’ll end up becoming an umpire.”

And my personal, all-time favorite? The “Choc Wedge” Award: *drum roll* – RAFA! It’s quite self-explanatory.

I still love you Nadal, but seriously? I really can’t say it any better than Saligari: “The Spanish world No. 2 has earned over $14 million in prize money alone. Rafa, buy some new shorts. Please.”