Tennis In Cyberspace

by DONALD SINGER Fans with Internet access are in for a treat when they log on to the official US Open web site, designed in partnership with IBM ( www.usopen.org ). In addition to real-time scores, there’s a cornucopia of goodies to delight everyone. New this year is "Event Stats," a statistics section giving date on aces, double faults, service games won, tie breaks and much more for Showcourts 1, 2, 3, 10 and 13. Another 1999 feature is "Sights and Sounds" — live audio broadcasts of action on the final two days. This is in addition to daily audio and video interview clips and news updates.
Back from last year’s "SlamCam," which lets users control robotic cameras for different views of the action. Now it will cover courts 2 and 3, in addition to Ashe Stadium! Once again, there will be opportunities for live "chat sessions" with players and coaches and the ability to purchase official US Open tourney merchandise on-line.
Steffi Graf, who retired earlier this month, will be missed both on court and in the interview room, where she always gave thought provoking and insightful quotes. Last year, this reporter inquired if she was committed to playing a certain number of years. She stopped for a few moments and cupped her chin in her hands. "I don’t know, you don’t know, nobody knows!" she answered. Now, it’s over.
Anyone who viewed the final of the recent ATP Championship saw an amazing sight. One of Pete Sampras’ ballistic serves bounced off the cement with such force that it completely shattered the strings of Patrick Rafter’s racket! Even the veteran TV announcers were in shock. It’s said that Pete’s first coach wanted him to have a less powerful "kick" delivery, which would give more time to get to the net for a finishing volley. Is there any man on the tour who fits that profile! Think Pete’s sometime nemesis, two-time defending Open champ, Rafter. The pony-tailed Aussie should be very much in evidence at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, clad in his snazzy Hawaiian print shorts. Pat would like nothing better than a rematch with Pete in the semis or finals.
If you want to predict this year’s winners, check long range weather reports. When the temperature-humidity index goes over 100, fans are urged to take shelter. They can at least go to refreshment stands but players aren’t that lucky. Sampras is vulnerable in day matches in sultry conditions. Swirling winds in the second week could disrupt Andre Agassi’s pinpoint timing and throw off Jana Novotna’s high service toss.