Blake remains upbeat
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ByEurosport
Published 08/09/2006 at 07:07 GMT
James Blake was remaining optimistic after losing his U.S. Open quarter-final against world number one Roger Federer. The fifth-seed became the only man so far this tournament to take a set off the 25-year-old Swiss star in his 7-6 6-0 6-7 6-4 defeat.
TENNIS Blake 30/08
Image credit: Eurosport
The victory saw Federer equal Ivan Lendl's record streak in reaching 10th successive grand slam semi-finals.
"I take pride in the way I fought," fifth-seeded Blake said. "Down two sets and a break. First time I took a set," said Blake, who had lost his previous four matches against Federer in straight sets.
"I was one point away from winning the first set, too. I guess he's human."
Blake said Federer was one of the top athletes of his generation, alongside the likes of golfer Tiger Woods and NBA star Michael Jordan.
"I think that's a joke - not to take anything away from Tiger Woods because he's an unbelievable golfer.
"I'd make a case for Roger Federer being the best athlete of our time, not tennis player, athlete.
"Roger is winning every grand slam except for the French, winning every Masters Series tournament. That means he can't have one bad day. I mean, that's incredible.
"Not to mention he has to be out here for four hours running as opposed to walking while carrying one club - not taking anything away from golf.
"Tiger is an unbelievable athlete. He's proven himself every Sunday every time he has a lead.
"But look at Roger's record in grand slam finals, too. Grand slam finals, he's 8-1. That's unheard of.
"There are just too many things he does well. He doesn't panic. He plays offense unbelievably well. He plays defense better than anyone I've ever played.
"He makes so many gets, and when he gets to it, he doesn't just put it back; he puts it where it's difficult for you to hit the next shot.
"Volleys well. Serves well. Handled the pressure of being number one in the world. He's handled the pressure of being against a crowd tonight that was clearly on my side. He obviously puts pressure on himself to succeed and has handled all that.
"Got the biggest forehand in the game. Seems to be able to create pace out of nothing. I could keep going probably, too."
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