Fernando Gonzalez has had a tough road back since his right hip surgery back in October of 2010. He was a 2003 finalist at the Legg Mason Tennis Classic, but he has yet to take home the title. Could he do it this year? Possibly, but don’t bet on it.
He had an intense two-and-a-half hour practice in the brutal Sunday afternoon heat, en route smashing three, count them, 3 racquets beyond repair. He was visibly frustrated with himself, his movement, and his overall form, and he took it out on his racquets. His coach was on him like glue during water breaks, telling him to change his placement or go for more on his shots. Jurgen Melzer in the court next to him even glanced over a few times in surprise, checking to see if everything was alright.
Although he is a former world #5, he is looking irritated and fragile on court. He is slated to take on another player coming back from right hip surgery as well, German Tommy Haas, in the first round on Tuesday.
At the Chef’s Challenge, a special event hosted by Rums of Puerto Rico, Gonzalez chatted up attendees and enjoyed the delicious Latin dishes. And then I caught him indulging in something else: alcohol. Does he seem to be washing down his frustration by getting his drink on? You decide.
Drink 1
Drink 2
Before his practice on Saturday afternoon, he couldn’t even get onto the court. The side door was deadlocked. The guy just can’t catch a break, can he?
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