Bangkok Preview

Asia is on the fast track toward the top of the world in sports, especially tennis. From the selection of Bejing, China to host the 2008 Olympics to their first Formula One Race, it is clear that China has taken the lead to show the world that Asian sports are here to stay. The 2004 Olympic results speak for themselves. China finished in second place to the USA with total medals won by a single country. Japan also put in a strong showing in Athens with 16 total medals. In tennis, the paring of Li and Sun won the gold medal in ladies doubles and the Asian men made great strides in Greece and look forward to this weeks ATP event in Thailand.

It is, in fact, Bangkok, that we turn our attention to this week. Andy, fresh from strong 2004 results, competes for his first Asian ATP Title. In just its second year as a destination for professional tennis, Bangkok has drawn the top two players in the world, Andy and Roger Federer. They will be joined by home favorite, Paradorn Srichaphan, as well as Marat Safin and defending champion, Taylor Dent.

After Lleyton Hewitt established his intentions last week of taking Roddick’s number two ranking away from him by the end of the year, Andy will be looking to lengthen the gap currently between them.

Due to the withdrawal of young Aussie Todd Reid, Andy will face lucky loser, Arvind Parmer of Great Britain. Parmer has had a reasonably good summer on the Challenger circuits, although his best tennis is usually played on the grass of England. Although he has a good serve, it is not in the same league as Roddick’s, who just this weekend broke the fastest serving record (which he already held), by hitting a serve of 155mph. Parmer’s serve may hold out for a while, but Andy’s improved returns should find their mark to significantly influence the match. In keeping with the traditional British way, Parmer is a serve volleyer but his backhand volley lacks punch and Andy should be able to find the necessary passes. Andy will have to be wary on his own serve, especially at the beginning of the match, but will likely emerge the victor.

Andy is not likely to be tested until he reaches the quarter final where his probable opponent will be Thomas Johansson. Lurking in the other half of the draw, is number one in the world, Roger Federer.

With to wins at Davis Cup last week and a successful summer, Andy looks ready to compete. A Wednesday start, and a new Asian atmosphere, gives an edge to Andy to capture his first Thailand Championship and intensify the Roddick/Federer rivalry to be number 1 in the world!

Check frequently at andyroddick.com for the latest news…