Tough Day in Palmanova

The guys debated as a team last night and even this morning, as to what would be their best line to play Spain today. They finally decided that Larry was almost a sure bet at #2 singles, then have Bill do his best to wear out the #1 player. Phil and Tom would then clean up at doubles. Unfortunately things didn´t quite go as planned. Larry played a very tough, quick footed retriever and lost 6-2, 6-4. Bill lost at number #1, love and two. The match was over. Phil and Tom played the doubles for posterity and won love and one. Spain wins 2-1. They were obviously disappointed in their loss, but gave the Spainards their due. Their opponents played well, and were the better team today. Tomorrow the USA plays Sweden. They are now competing for a 5-8 finish.

The girls beat Great Britain 2-1 and now play France in the semifinals tomorrow.

We picked up our laundry, walked to our beach restaurant and hung out for a while. I took a day off from hitting, mainly because the match schedules and practice courts just didn´t mesh. Tomorrow I´ll get a good work out in. Ana Ivanovic was back out hitting today.

We move to the north part of the island on Sunday. The ITF will provide buses for the 2 hour ride. We´re all looking forward to seeing other parts of the island. The draws for the individuals will be posted tomorrow afternoon. The list of players looks strong, but I´m anxious to get started playing myself.