Submitted by jacqueline, Jul 7, 2007 16:01

federer is a great player, and one who arrogantly says as much in press conference after press conference (has there ever been a more conceited player?). Still, the hyperbole that the press rain on him is a little much. Even while commentating on his matches, commentators often ignore the brillance of the players who are playing against him, only to blather on about how fed isn't playing his best, yada yada. And as Perotta says: fed brings out the worst in other players. I think it's demoralizing and boring for a tennis fan to watch most of federer's matches. Fancypants Fed is what Perrota implies -- a show piece for himself. And he's made tennis a bit of a bore to watch, really. Compare, for instance, how a rafa or a djokovic react when they win a match: falling to the grass, stripping off clothing, throwing their arms into the air, crossing themselves. It's fabulous; it's exciting!! We feel their jubillance. And Fed? Not much from his end, aside from a concessional fist pump, that says, "I know I'm the greatest". Ugh. I'll be thrilled when someone knocks him off his pedestal and tennis opens up to all of the rising, young, competitive and exciting new stars. Only then will tennis get back the buzz it's had in the best of times. Great article Perrota; you're bang on. Go rafa go!

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