US Open day nine as it happened

Defending champion Andy Murray beats Denis Istomin to reach the US Open quarter-finals.

4 September 2013 Last updated at 05:21

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As it happened

    Russell Fuller, BBC tennis correspondent at Flushing Meadows

    It was a bit laborious at times but Murray never looked in danger of defeat. The match(es) that will determine his fate start on Thursday.

  2. 0510: 

    With Andy Murray safely through to the US Open quarter-finals for a third consecutive year, the British number one's Flushing Meadows title defence remains firmly on course. Next stop? Stanislas Wawrinka on Thursday. It's time for us to bid your farewell. Thank you for your company and contributions. See you back here on day 10.

    Jeff Tarango, BBC Radio 5 live

    "Murray is the defending champion, but something is going to have to upset the Nadal applecart if he's going to beat him. Nadal will be favourite."

    Jeff Tarango, BBC Radio 5 live

    "Looking ahead to the quarter-finals, Gasquet's probably the most flashy player in the draw, whereas Ferrer is more of a typical Spaniard who grinds results out. I'm going to give it to the grinder. And if anybody's going to beat Li Na, it's Serena."

    Jeff Tarango, BBC Radio 5 live

    "Nadal has already eclipsed everybody, and there's no sign that the thrusters behind him are slowing down. It's been a long year for the other guys, but it seems as though Nadal's only halfway through the year."

  6. 0454: 

    So, the 2013 US Open men's singles quarter-finals line-up is complete.

    Novak Djokovic (Srb) [1] v Mikhail Youzhny (Rus) [21]

    Andy Murray (GB) [3] v Stanislas Wawrinka (Sui) [9]

    Richard Gasquet (Fra) [8] v David Ferrer (Spa) [4]

    Tommy Robredo (Spa) [19] v Rafael Nadal (Spa) [2]

  7. 0448: 

    "It was definitely tough. It was pretty breezy out there, the wind was quite strong and both of us struggled with out timing early on. When it's breezy like that you can have some entertaining points.

    "After losing the first set, I started trying to dictate the points, especially when the wind was with me, and use my forehand more. I had the chance to win the first set so it was just about minor adjustments.

    "Wawrinka will be very tough. He has played great tennis the whole year, is ranked eight or nine and will be higher after this. He's very talented. We played once before on this court when we were much younger and a lot has changed since then, but it will be tough."

    Andy Murray
    MURRAY WINS- Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 6-4 6-4 Istomin

    We've not seen many backhand winners from Murray in this far-from-vintage performance, but he pulls one out of the bag after an ace to go 30-0 up and within two points of the match. A double fault brings it back to 30-30, only for Murray's serve to click at the perfect time. That takes him to match point and Murray charges into to volley Istomin into submission and roar with delight. That's your lot.

    Jeff Tarango, BBC Radio 5 live

    "That shot went over the jumbotron, it looked as though it was going to go out of the stadium until the wind caught it. I thought it was going to hit the spidercam. After the point, Istomin went over to Murray and tapped him on the leg as if to say 'this must be your night'."

    *Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 6-4 5-4 Istomin

    It seems the end could be nigh after Murray forces his way to 0-30... Istomin bits back. but then skews a horrid forehand into the net to give his Scottish opponent 15-30 and two break points. The first goes begging but the second is converted - and how. Murray is scrambling around the baseline to stay in the point and, all but beaten, puts up a hopeful lob that looks to be sailing out. However, the wind blows it back into court, a rally resumes and Istomin finally puts a groundstroke into the net. Murray to serve for the match...

    Jeff Tarango, BBC Radio 5 live

    "This is the crucial game for Murray to mount his charge, with the wind in his favour. If he's going to break serve in this set, it's got to be right here - otherwise he'll have to wait for a tie-break."

    Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 6-4 4-4 Istomin*

    Top-class volleying is obviously easier said than done, yet it's fair to say Murray misses a sitter to slow his progress. That progress, however, is achieved when Istomin shanks a forehand into the tramlines.

    *Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 6-4 3-4 Istomin

    For those of you expecting to get a little eye-shut sometime soon, I'm afraid your wait will go on a while longer because Istomin is playing some inspired tennis. This time it's a hold to 15, wrapped up with a crunching forehand down the line. His mum will be pleased with that - literally, she's his coach!

    Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 6-4 3-3 Istomin*

    The crowd is starting to thin as this match edges towards midnight local time. Which, fortunately, means less people are in attendance to hear the expletive Murray utters after hitting a fourth double fault of the day. The world number three composes himself told comfortably hold and keen this fourth set on serve.

    *Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 6-4 2-3 Istomin

    Three netted backhands from the Murray racquet play no small part in Istomin collecting a love service hold of his own. Who blinks first?

    Jeff Tarango, BBC Radio 5 live

    "It's important for Murray to end this match so he's fresh for a tough battle with Wawrinka."

    Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 6-4 2-2 Istomin*

    Hold to love for the British number one. Just what coach Lendl ordered. Murray will want to get this over and done with sharpish, but he's still got plenty of work to do.

    *Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 6-4 1-2 Istomin

    More crowd-pleasing play from Istomin, who just won't go away and Murray looks to be feeling the strain. The defending champion goes to put his head in his hands at the change of ends but thinks better of it. And rightly so, because Murray's hopes of reaching the US Open quarter-finals are looking strong.


    Glen Hawkins: If #Murray can whizz through this 4th set !! I can grab bout an hours sleep before work .. So come on Andy.

    Ned Bartholomew: Love that Istomin changed his shorts as well as his shirt, and everything matches his glasses now #fashionconscious

    Iain Luxford: Why is Andy Murray playing against someone in 1980s, luminous, fancy dress!?

    Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 6-4 1-1 Istomin*

    The British number one is back on track with a hold to 15, this time a well-timed drop shot getting the better of his Uzbek opponent.

    *Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 6-4 0-1 Istomin

    Murray is becoming increasingly frustrated by spectators moving around in the stands during points. It seems to distract him through that game and a couple of errors help Istomin open set four with a confident hold of serve.

  22. 0406: 

    Istomin trundles off for a comfort break and returns not in his lighting orange shirt but a luminous yellow version. He has also changed his bandana and shorts. One last roll of the dice?

    MURRAY WINS THIRD SET- Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 6-4 Istomin*

    Tense moments at 30-30 with Murray serving for the set... but he finds a 131mph delivery down the middle to chalk up a set point and converts it at the first time of asking. "YES!" he yells before trotting back to his seat. That puts Murray bang on course for victory.


    Former British number one Greg Rusedski: Looks like a Stan the man v Murray in quarter-finals going to be first big test for Murray.

    *Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 5-4 Istomin

    Istomin with a hold to 15, keeping himself in contention.

  26. 0357: 

    Ninth seed Stanislas Wawrinka beats fifth seed Tomas Berdych 3-6 6-1 7-6 (8-6) 6-2 and will play Andy Murray or Denis Istomin for a place in the US Open semi-finals.

    Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 5-3 Istomin*

    Point of the match. Point of the day. Possibly point of the tournament. Even by Murray's standards, this is special. Istomin rags him around the court, belting groundstrokes into either corner, but the Scot refuses to be beaten. He shows superhuman defensive skills to rebuff everything thrown at him, eventually whipping a crosscourt forehand pass that seemingly brings every single member of the crowd to their feet. That sets up a morale-boosting hold and Murray is in charge.

    *Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 4-3 Istomin

    This time it's Istomin's turn to malfunction and when a forehand is battered long and wide, Murray has two break points... the first is saved with a much better forehand, the second when Murray miscues. Here comes a third break point... Britain's finest floats a lob past the baseline. Murray then pulls a forehand into the tramlines and his frustration is clear for all to see as the Scot bends over, hands on knees. Four deuces come and go and a nervous murmur swirls around Arthur Ashe Stadium. Murray produces an inside-out forehand winner on to the sideline for break point four... and this time there is no mistake as Istomin is pinned back and sees his lob gobbled up by the net. Kim Sears is has a smile back on her face and she's urging her her man to press on for the win.


    Rabin Acharya: This is a make and break set for Murray. He must win this set to advance.

    Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 3-3 Istomin*

    Murray loses his concentration and the net result is two break points to Istomin. Both are saved and Murray roars with delight, relief, call it what you like. The Scot is fist pumping, geeing himself up, hitting his head with his racquet... he knows how important this game is but contrives to hand over a third break point and this time a crouching Murray flicks a backhand into the net.

    *Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 3-2 Istomin

    You will struggle to find a better top spin lob than the one we've just seen from Murray as he seeks the double-break. But credit to Istomin, who serves his way over the line and still looks confident of his chances.

  32. 0329: 

    Over on Armstrong, Stanislas Wawrinka, seeded ninth, now leads fifth seed Tomas Berdych by two sets to one.

    Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 3-1 Istomin*

    There's even a hint of a smile on the face of coach Lendl as Murray consolidates his break of serve with a booming ace that leaves his Uzbek opponent rooted.

    *Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 2-1 Istomin

    It is not so long ago that Murray would have exploded in the situation he encountered in that last game. But on-court emotion is something he has worked on with coach Ivan Lendl - they don't want the Scot wasting energy unnecesarily - and it pays off in game three as Murray registers a break point. He comes into the net to dispatch a routine forehand and take charge of set three.

    Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 1-1 Istomin*
    Andy Murray

    "We have to replay that point? Are you kidding me?" That is the question a furious Murray asks of the chair umpire as a clear winner from the Scot is called out, only to be overruled as a point that should be replayed. Murray can't understand why, because we could all see that was a winner. The British number one looks flabbergasted and is clearly having to restrain himself from a huge outburst.

    His mood is not improved by hitting into the net, but Murray then serves his way to safety and his name is on the board.

    *Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 0-1 Istomin

    Timely, Istomin finds a couple of thunderous serves to open set three in style. Plenty left in this match yet.


    Eton Rifle: C'mon Andy. I'm against allergies. I'm "anti-Istomin". Sorry bad joke. Murray in 4.

    MURRAY WINS SECOND SET- Murray 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 Istomin*

    The crowd are treated to a popcorn point as Murray and Istomin take lumps out of each other from the baseline before jousting at the net. Murray sticks up and lob, Istomin gives chase. The Uzbek opts for a through-the-legs 'hotdog', more in hope than expectation. Murray's there to meet in at the net, but he appears shocked that Istomin actually made the return and somehow pats his easy volley into the net.

    It matters not, though, because Murray grinds his way to set point with a fist pump and yell of "Come on!". He converts it to level the match after one hour and 30 minutes of play.


    Jack Elliot: It's going to be a long night for anyone staying up for Murray to progress.

    *Murray 6-7 (5-7) 5-1 Istomin

    Errors starting to mount for Istomin and Murray suddenly finds himself with two break points. Istomin may as well write off the set, no? Certainly not. He battles back with the aid of a stupendous sliced backhand drop shot that Murray doesn't even bother moving for. This is saying something. Murray looks like he's about to start applauding, only to think again. The British number one engineers two more break points and Istomin eventually goes wide to hand over the double break.


    Jamie Murray: Nickname alert: Dennis "The Arrow" Istomin. He's very handy with a dart in his hand!

    Murray 6-7 (5-7) 4-1 Istomin*

    There's something irritating Murray - seems to be a couple of late line-judge calls - but it's clearly not disrupting his rhythm. The world number three chops a low forehand deep to Istomin's backhand and the Uzbek can only find the net. Murray on top.

    *Murray 6-7 (5-7) 3-1 Istomin

    Murray takes his foot off the gas and Istomin is able to regain his earlier poise. Hold to 15 for the Moscow-based right-hander.

    Piers Newbery, BBC Sport in New York

    "Murray was obviously fuming at dropping the first set, swiping his racquet angrily on the way back to his chair, but apart from a few mad moments at the end of the tie-break he was starting to get aboard the Istomin game. With an early break in the second there's every chance that first set will prove to have been not much more than an annoyance. Much like the gusting wind, which is sending food packaging swirling around the stadium."

    Murray 6-7 (5-7) 3-0 Istomin*

    An almost identical crosscourt forehand to the one that secured the break consolidates the advantage. The fightback is on.

    *Murray 6-7 (5-7) 2-0 Istomin

    If Murray was a little sleepy in the first set, he's wide awake now. The Scot races to 15-40 and two break points - the first is saved but Istomin has no answer on the second as Murray dispatches a crosscourt forehand of the very highest order.

    Murray 6-7 (5-7) 1-0 Istomin*

    Murray opens set two with a carefree hold to 15. Much more like it, but he has a lot more work to do after losing that first set.

    Jeff Tarango, BBC Radio 5 live

    "Andy could go out here. Istomin beat the 15th seed in the first round - he's an up-and-coming player with a big serve. Andy hasn't put it into third gear yet but I'd say there's a good chance of an upset and it's getting better."

    You can listen to commentary on BBC Radio 5 live


    Alex Neate: Pull it together Andy !!!!

    ISTOMIN WINS FIRST SET- *Murray 6-7 (5-7) Istomin

    The first mini-break goes Istomin's way as Murray dumps a languid groundstroke into the net for 0-2. The defending champion rallies with a silky drop volley, Istomin responds with an ace, but Murray cranks up the pressure for 3-3 and soon gets his nose in front as Istomin nets a forehand. The net again comes in handy to present Murray with the mini-break for 5-3, only for Istomin to slap a forehand winner down the line for 5-4. Both men blowing hard after that grueller.

    Murray prepares to serve for a 6-4 lead, but his routine is interrupted by a shout of "Come on Dan!" from the crowd and he throws in a double fault. Big pressure now. Murray nets a regulation forehand for 6-5 and that means set point to the Uzbek. A baseline exchange ensues, both men trading hammer blows, but it is Istomin who holds his nerve as Murray drives a backhand long and wide!

    Denis Istomin
  51. 0228: 

    Over on Armstrong, Wawrinka strikes early in set three to lead Berdych 3-6 6-1 2-0. Who fancies that to go the distance?

    Murray 6-6 Istomin*

    Murray's speed and movement is so impressive these days that it's easy to take it for granted. But he gives us another glimpse of just what an incredible athlete he is by chasing down a number of lost causes and eventually forcing Istomin to fire wide. The crowd love that effort from the Scot. Into a tie-break we go...

    *Murray 5-6 Istomin

    Trouble for Istomin at 15-30, but his fearless approach pays dividends. A 29-shot rally ends with him directing a pinpoint overhead beyond Murray's reach and drawing healthy applause from the crowd. That takes Istomin to 40-30 and Murray bends over, he looks forlorn. We know he's not really, but he will now serve to stay in the set.

    Denis Istomin
    Murray 5-5 Istomin*

    That's more like it for Murray, holding to 15 as an attempted through-the-legs 'hotdog' from Istomin on game point goes horribly wrong. Over on Armstrong, Stanislas Wawrinka takes the second set against Tomas Berdych so it's 6-3 1-6 over there at present.

    Jeff Tarango, BBC Radio 5 live

    "The door opened just a little bit there for Denis Istomin but he had it slammed straight back in his face."

    *Murray 4-5 Istomin

    There's concern on the face of girlfriend Kim Sears in Murray's player box, but she need not worry for now. Istomin goes from making two unforced errors all evening to four in one game. He goes long to give Murray three break-back points and although one is saved, the Uzbek sends down a double fault on the second. Back on serve and no shortage of entertainment for the assembled celebs.

    Murray 3-5 Istomin*

    A decent start for Murray as he comes to the net and dispatches a brilliant volley despite being rocked back by Istomin's power. But then is all goes wrong and Murray is faced with two break points, the first of which is converted when Murray miscues. Istomin to serve for the opening set.

    Jeff Tarango, BBC Radio 5 live

    "There is a little bit of doubt about whether Andy Murray will win this match, which is why I'm excited to be here for this one."

    You can listen to commentary on BBC Radio 5 live now

    *Murray 3-4 Istomin

    Barely a blemish from Istomin so far - he's playing well and looks to be having fun. Given that he's listed as a Real Madrid fan and the Spanish giants singed Gareth Bale for world record £85m on Sunday, no wonder the 26-year-old has a spring in his step.

    Murray 3-3 Istomin*

    An early look-in for Istomin is quickly snuffed out by Murray and, although the Scot is being tested more on his serve than vice verse, he holds to 30 when the Uzbek goes wide. An interesting use of the drop shot from Istomin in that game... Murray raced in from way behind the baseline to somehow reach it and despite putting his return long, it would have planted a message in Istomin's head that it will take something special to outwit the British number one.

    Andy Murray
    *Murray 2-3 Istomin

    This is big and impressive from Istomin. Another comfortable hold from the man from Uzbekistan, who is coached by his mother, and he could well pose a bigger threat today than many had expected.

    Russell Fuller, BBC tennis correspondent

    "It's nice to see a set on this court which isn't going to finish 6-0!"

    You can listen to commentary on BBC Radio 5 live now

  63. 0154: 

    There is one other match taking place at Flushing Meadows right now and the winner of that will play the winner of this. It involves Tomas Berdych and Stanislas Wawrinka. Fifth seed Berdych took the opening set 6-3 but he trails ninth seed Wawrinka 4-0 in the second.

    Murray 2-2 Istomin*

    Some enormous hitting from Istomin sees Murray taken to deuce in his second service game of the day. Not that the defending champion is fazed by that, serving his way out of trouble to keep the opening set on level terms.


    WTA official Kevin Fischer: 2013 US Open will be second Grand Slam in Open era with three women's semi-finalists who are 30+ years old (also three at 1994 Wimbledon).


    Luce Fenner: Incredible that the last four sets on Arthur Ashe have been won 6-0. Americans do love their bagels.

    Hugo Brundle: If that was Serena Williams not peaking, women's tennis should pack up and come back in January.

    *Murray 1-2 Istomin

    If the outfit was designed to stand out, so it seems was Istomin's game. The Uzbek lost their only previous meeting - in Brisbane earlier this year - but it was close that day and it could be again today. The last unseeded player left in the draw is moving and striking the ball nicely, seemingly unaffected by the blustery conditions.

    Murray 1-1 Istomin*

    Perfectly decent response from Andy Murray - a hold to 30, sealed with an inside-out forehand flick that catches the sideline. The British number one and defending champion is sporting his red top with black trim and shorts, whole Istomin has opted for lightning orange shirt, matching headband, white shorts and wraparound sunnies.

    *Murray 0-1 Istomin

    A love hold from Denis Istomin to get us up and running. Nothing spectacular or unexpected, but impressive serving nonetheless for the world number 65.

  70. 0132: 

    "I followed quite a lot of transfer deadline day on my phone but I couldn't watch it. There weren't too many moves. Ozil is a good signing for Arsenal, but there weren't too many big names.

    "It's very windy out there on Arthur Ashe. It's cooler and not as humid. The rain yesterday got rid of a lot of the humidity. It's windier tonight, similar conditions to the final last year. You need to change the way you need to play quite a lot - one end you need to his with quite a lot of top spin, and at the other end you need to flatten it out.

    "Istomin has a big serve and goes for winners on the run. He plays high risk tennis and is very tough. He served around 25 aces in his last match. He's a big guy with a big game. I need to be solid and not make too many errors. Hopefully I'll play a good match."

  71. 0126: 

    Time for you know who...

  72. 0124: 

    "She's a great player but the conditions were so tough and she definitely did not play her best tennis today. It's only because I've been playing here for like 50 years, so I've kind of gotten used to the conditions and even though it's very difficult to play each year, I'm getting used to it.

    "I hope I'm not peaking yet, I'm just trying to do the best I can. I'm happy to have all this support and to be in the semi-finals feels great. It will be a great match against Li Na - she's playing some of the best tennis of her career and it will be a really tough match."

    Serena Williams
  73. 0120: 

    Serena - who dropped just one point on serve in the first set and that was a double fault - becomes the first woman since Martina Navratilova in 1989 (versus Manuela Maleeva Fragniere) to win a Grand Slam quarter-final without losing a game.

  74. 0115: 

    Carla Suarez Navarro ends her own misery by finding the net to confirm a 6-0 6-0 defeat by Serena Williams in 52 minutes. Ouch.

  75. 0110: 

    I'll save you the stats until this is over, which will be soon, but rest assured the phrase 'one-sided' is a massive understatement.

    A first moment of angst for Serena arrives in game five of the second set as a loose forehand gifts Suarez Navarro a break point... but Serena comes into the net to dispatch and easy put-away and she lets out an almighty scream in the process. I think she wants this double bagel.

    A double fault - the second delivery landing about four yards beyond the box and hitting Suarez Navarro's body - brings up a second break point. This time there's genuine drama as Serena comes to the net, volleys beautifully, does the splits and eventually prevails when her opponent can only find the net with an attempted pass.

    It's 6-0 5-0 and Serena is almost home and dry. Over on Armstrong, Tomas Berdych and Stanislas Wawrinka have just started.


    Matthew Vernon: Watching an hour-long programme following your 2am estimate. You have 2 options: make Serena take longer or delay Andy's arrival.

    Mark: Suarez Navarro. Worst Grand Slam quarter finalist ever?

    Jarleth Eaton: Well, at least it won't be long before we see Andy. This has been like a practice match for Serena.


    Gregory P: I think 2am was a very conservative estimate if Serena carries on like this.

    AP: Serena looks a bit off her game here, only played the first set and already Suarez Navarro has won 5 points...

    Huw Morris: I love watching Serena decimate opponents to the point where they question their decision to ever pick up a racquet.

  78. 0056: 

    As Mr Harman points out, that 6-0 scoreline means the last three three sets on Arthur Ashe Stadium have been collected for the loss of not a single game. It looks like that is about to change as Suarez Navarro gets to 40-30 and advantage in game two of the second set, but Serena powers through to remain unblemished. And now it's 6-0 3-0. I mean, what else did you expect?


    Times tennis correspondent Neil Harman: What a ghastly opening set of tennis on Ashe. Not Serena's fault, she is just too solid all round. Three consecutive bagels on Ashe. The natives will be demanding their money back.

  80. 0048: 

    It's at this time that we should probably spare a thought for Suarez Navarro - not only is she on the end of a drubbing at the hands of arguably the greatest female player in history, but today is her 25th birthday. Oh dear.

    Carla Suarez Navarro
  81. 0041: 

    With just 19 minutes on the clock, Serena Williams shows exactly why she's the defending champion and world number one. The first set is in the bag, 6-0 the scoreline, and Williams will now have half an eye on the double bagel. Suarez Navarro could do with finding a rabbit and a hat.

  82. 0038: 

    This is an obliteration. Serena bulldozes her way to 5-0 as Suarez Navarro adopts the look of somebody who would prefer to be anywhere else right now.

    Piers Newbery, BBC Sport in New York

    It's pretty gusty on Ashe with a few dark clouds overhead, and for the first time in recent memory it doesn't feel suffocatingly humid at Flushing Meadows. What some might call a sparse crowd is probably a good 10,000, and there are plenty more streaming into the 23,000-seater. They might need to get a move on if they want to catch Serena...

  84. 0032: 

    A characteristically ruthless start from Serena Williams as she follows up that early blitz with a break of serve, hold to 15 and another strike against the head. Three aces and seven winners already on the board. Suarez Navarro is getting a pasting.

    Serena Williams
  85. 0030: 

    Over on Luis Armstrong Stadium, the men's fourth-round meeting between Tomas Berdych and Stanislas Wawrinka should have started some time ago. But there's still doubles being played on that arena so, in all likelihood, Berdych/Wawrinka and Murray/Istomin will be in progress at the same time. How about that for a late-night feast?

  86. 0025: 

    Two aces, one drive-volley and an unforced error from Suarez Navarro see Williams collect the opening game with just one minute on the clock. It's a sparse crowd inside Arthur Ashe Stadium for this, the opening night session match, but expect it to gradually fill up and be fairly packed by the time Andy Murray and Denis Istomin walk out at around 0200 BST. Set your alarms, Brit pack.


    Times tennis correspondent Neil Harman: Serena warming up wearing a jacket with a button done up. Rather disconcerting for the opposition.

  88. 0015: 

    Serena Williams strides on to court in purposeful fashion. Talking of fashion, the world number one appears to be wearing a blazer over her match gear. She plays Carla Suarez Navarro of Spain for a place in the US Open semi-finals. The four-time champion has beaten her 25-year-old opponent in both of their previous two meetings, dropping just five games along the way. Let's get going...

  89. 2354: 

    For all of Serena Williams's dominance over Carla Suarez Navarro on paper, defending a title is no easy task and the last player to successfully do so at the US Open was Kim Clijsters in 2009 and 2010. Can Serena defend her title? Who is her biggest threat? Tweet us your thoughts using the hashtag #bbctennis.

    GET INVOLVED #bbctennis

    Daniel Eckersley: Djokovic eats Granollers for breakfast

    Adam Gibson: Superb performance from Djokovic!

    Michael Blighe: Djokovic looked scarily good in that match. I think that was him laying down a marker. Come and get me!

  91. 2341: 

    There are many facts and figures to accentuate the gulf between Serena Williams and Carla Suarez Navarro, but perhaps the most striking is prize money. The Spaniard recently surpassed the $2m mark in career prize money while Williams has already won $5m this season - the third time she has broken the $5m barrier in a season.

  92. 2329: 
    Carla Suarez Navarro

    Has Carla Suarez Navarro a chance of beating Serena Williams? The 20th seed has lost her two previous encounters with the four-time US Open winner and is competing in the quarter-finals of the US Open for the first time. Indeed, Navarro is the first Spanish woman to reach the quarter-finals at Flushing Meadows since Arantxa Sanchez-Vicario in 1998.

    GET INVOLVED #bbctennis

    Simon: Top players surely get an advantage from always being on show courts; they're used to crowd pressure while their opponents aren't.

    Adam Gibson: Superb performance from Djokovic!

  94. 2319: 

    There are a number of junior and doubles matches in progress at Flushing Meadows, but there's a blockbuster coming up, sort of, and that's Serena Williams's quarter-final clash with Spain's Carla Suarez Navarro. That match is the first night match on Ashe and should begin at around 00:00 BST so let countdown commence.

  95. 2310: 

    You have to feel for Marcel Granollers, I suppose. The Spaniard was defeated in 78 minutes by an opponent who won the last 13 games and won his first 25 points on serve. We should also have sympathy for Djokovic's next opponent, Mikhail Youzhny. After coming through a five setter against Lleyton Hewitt, the Russian now has to concoct a plan to topple the world number one.

  96. 2303: 

    Want Novak Djokovic's stats for that match? I thought so.

    Aces: 2 Double faults: 0 1st serves in: 72% 1st serve points won: 84% 2nd serve points won: 87% Net points won: 93% Break points won: 7/14 Winners: 34 Unforced errors: 15 Total points won: 86

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    Jonathon Solomons: Djokovic - Awesome

  98. 2256: 
    Novak Djokovic

    Novak Djokovic touched perfection during what he describes as one of the finest performances of his career. "It took me a while to get used to the conditions but after that I played flawless tennis," he admits. "This is great encouragement in front of the next challenge."

  99. 2252: 

    Djokovic nets a backhand volley gifting Marcel Granollers a point! A POINT! The Spaniard then challenges a call, with HawkEye confirming his shot touched the line by 0.000001mm - another POINT! A rare Novak Djokovic error and Granollers has BREAK POINT. Gosh. The Serb was only teasing, though, danger averted and the world number one concludes an emphatic 6-3 6-0 6-0 win with a backhand lob.

  100. 2247: 

    A hush around Ashe as the spectators are stunned into silence by Novak Djokovic's ruthlessness. The top seed breaks to love for a 5-0 lead in the third and merely 75 minutes have gone by. Djokovic could probably conjure winners from the baseline while sitting on deckchair.

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    Shohidur Rahman: Djokovic could at least give his opponent a game.

  102. 2240: 

    What a dominant performance from Novak Djokovic. In just over an hour, the world number one has eased two sets up and has twice broken Marcel Granollers, the world number 43, for a 3-0 lead in the third set. Twenty-five winners so far from the imperious 26-year-old, while he has won 87% of points on his first serve and 91% on the second. The fat lady has probably already sung and is tucking into a bag of fish and chips as I type.

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    Lleyton Hewitt

    David: #Hewitt lets try praising the winner, not commiserating with the looser. A hard 'WON' battle!

    Bambi: Ah I really wanted Hewitt to win that. Cracking match though. Fair play to both.

  104. 2230: 
    Novak Djokovic

    Those who were hoping for a few twists and turns in the fourth round match between Novak Djokovic and Marcel Granollers will be disappointed to hear that the world number one has sealed the second set 6-0 with a nonchalant forehand winner. Easy.

    Piers Newbery, BBC Sport in New York

    Jamie Murray remains upbeat after his quarter-final loss with John Peers in the doubles. "We won two really close matches, beat three pretty good teams," said the Scot. "It was a good tournament for us, absolutely. If you'd told me before the tournament, 'You're going to get to the quarter-finals,' I'd have said: 'OK, we'll take that.' I go home looking forward to the rest of the year."

  106. 2220: 

    Novak Djokovic, a man with six Grand Slam titles to his name, has played Marcel Granollers on one previous occasion - which ended in a straight sets victory for the Serb at the Australian Open two years ago. The world number one strolling along a street named easy on Ashe, breaking twice in the second set for a 3-0 lead.

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    Ally Hewet: Watching Hewitt lose a match like that is tough to take! He doesn't do things by halves that Aussie though!

    Nic MacLellan: Oh Lleyton. That is utterly heart-wrenchingly devastating. Gutted.

    Martina Navratilova, 18-time Grand Slam singles champion

    Martina Navratilova has been giving her thoughts on Roger Federer's straight sets defeat to Tommy Robredo on Monday.

    "In the old days, with the old racquets, you swung less, now you hit through the ball and when people get nervous they overhit. What I found when I was playing, you have to make yourself run. It's not that you lose quickness, it's the reaction to the ball that slows, when you're younger it's automatic. Roger has been changing the racquet, which I thought was a mistake, perhaps he needs a more powerful racquet so he doesn't feel the need to overhit."

  109. 2208: 

    It's going to plan on Arthur Ashe. Triple set points for Novak Djokovic and the top seed finishes with style, an ace down the middle to take the first set 6-3.

    Martina Navratilova, 18-time Grand Slam singles champion

    The top players rarely get tested these days because those guys are so much better than the rest of the field. Novak is a consummate professional. If something's not right, he fixes it straight away. It's amazing to watch.

    You can listen to live coverage from the US Open on BBC Radio 5 live.


    Infostrada Sports: Lleyton Hewitt crashes out of Us Open in 5 sets, his 40th career five set match in a Grand Slam. Only Andre Agassi has played in more (41).

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    Paul Thompson: Heartbreaking for Hewitt. No other word for it. Just heartbreaking. Credit to Youzhny but that is a sickener. What a match.

    Dusky: Commentators making me hungry. Each time they mention "Granollers" I want a cereal bar.

  113. 2157: 
    Novak Djokovic

    Time to place a hot flannel over the forehead after that exhausting match and turn our attention to Ashe where Novak Djokovic has just squandered two break point against Marcel Granollers.

  114. 2151: 

    Mikhail Youzhny will meet either Novak Djokovic or Marcel Granollers after his 6-3 3-6 6-7 (3-7) 6-4 7-5 win over Lleyton Hewitt.

  115. 2148: 

    The pair slicing and dicing from the baseline before Mikhail Youzhny ends that mini battle with a backhand winner into the corner for 30-15. "Out!" shouts a line judge, but Youzhny challenges and HawkEye proves the Russian's serve was in by the width of a butterfly's wing. Two match points. Here we go. Hewitt bravely advances to the net and saves one match point with an overhead... But one man only has so much pluck. The Aussie nets a backhand and Youzhny lets out a manic roar.

  116. 2142: 

    Backhand volley wide! Backhand volley wide! Lleyton Hewitt - who was 5-2 ahead, who had served for the match - gifts Mikhail Youzhny a break point. The Russian goes for the backhand pass, but lets Hewitt off the hook as it finds the tape. But Hewitt then nets a backhand, second break point Youzhny... What have you got, Lleyton? Ah, I see. The Australian's forehand goes long by a fraction and Youzhny can serve out the match.

  117. 2134: 
    Mikhail Youzhny

    Momentum swinging this way and that and Mikhail Youzhny, who was down and out, holds to level at 5-5 in the fifth.

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    Andrew Priestley: Yet another twist in the tale of Youzhny vs Hewitt. Neither man will give this match up. Who will blink first?

  119. 2130: 

    Kerpow! The duo tango at the net but a backhand volley from Mikhail Youzhny outwits Lleyton Hewitt for two break points. How will Hewitt, competing in the fourth round of the US Open for the first time since 2006, respond? He'll tighten, he'll think of the bounty which is within his grasp, and plonk a backhand into the tape. The fifth set is back on serve!

  120. 2126: 

    Forehand winner down the line from Lleyton Hewitt for 15-30, but the Russian responds with three points on the trot to hold. Hewitt serving for a place in the quarter-finals.

  121. 2122: 

    An ace down the middle from Lleyton Hewitt and the tireless 32-year-old leads 5-2 in the fifth.

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    Paul Thompson: Along with Dan Evans, Lleyton Hewitt has been the story of this year's US Open so far. It's great to see him making a comeback.

  123. 2118: 

    Boy, oh boy, oh boy. Mikhail Youzhny, facing a break point, double faults and the Australians on Louis Armstrong are cock-a-hoop. Their man is 4-2 up in the fifth and Hewitt could be about to extend his lead.

  124. 2117: 
    Li Na

    Li Na becomes the first Chinese player to progress to the semi-finals of the US Open after a 6-4 6-7 (5-7) 6-2 victory over Ekaterina Makarova.

  125. 2112: 

    Lleyton Hewitt is back on the service line, no sign of plasters on those elbows and knees. He saves break point and wriggles free, Youzhny letting his rival off the hook with a backhand into the net. It's with serve, the Australian a nose in front at 3-2.

  126. 2106: 

    So, while the trainer sticks plasters on Lleyton Hewitt's elbows and knees, let's pop over to Ashe. Li Na has broken in the decider and leads Ekaterina Makarova 4-2. The fifth seed should be home and dry from here.

  127. 2105: 

    Lleyton Hewitt slips when attempting to volley at the net and the trainer is called to patch up the Australian's bleeding right elbow. It's an injury which won't prevent the 32-year-old from continuing. Blood 'n' guts 'n' entertaining rallies.

  128. 2055: 
    Lleyton Hewitt

    Over three hours have now elapsed since Lleyton Hewitt began his rumble with Russia's Mikhail Youzhny. Neither player prepared to throw in the towel. The battle of the thirtysomethings will go to death as Hewitt breaks back and holds for a 2-1 lead in the fifth. Deep breaths needed.

  129. 2053: 

    Ekaterina Makarova wins the second set tie-break 7-6 (7-5) against Li Na, which means Novak Djokovic must wait a wee bit longer to take aim at Spain's Marcel Granollers. Mikhail Youzhny showing the world he has grit for guts as he breaks Lleyton Hewitt in the opening game of the deciding set which, I think, makes that six games on the trot for the Russian.

    Jeff Tarango, BBC Radio 5 live

    I think you need a degree in volcanology to understand Mikhail Youzhny. He came back from the depths. I don't know who has got the most left, but I'll have to go with the youth of Youzhny.

    You can listen to live coverage of Mikhail Youzhny's fourth round match with Lleyton Hewitt on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra.

  131. 2047: 

    Lleyton Hewitt's backhand sails into the tramlines and a fierce-looking Mikhail Youzhny, described by The Australian newspaper as a emotional supernova, forces this match into a decider.

    Piers Newbery, BBC Sport in New YorkWEDNESDAY'S SCHEDULE IS OUT

    The early version of Wednesday's order of play is out and from 17:00 BST on Ashe you will see Roberta Vinci v Flavia Pennetta, followed by Richard Gasquet v David Ferrer. The night session from 00:00 [Thursday] will feature Daniela Hantuchova v Victoria Azarenka, followed by Rafael Nadal v Roge.... sorry, Tommy Robredo.

  133. 2040: 

    Double fault... backhand into the tramlines... backhand into the tape... three break points to Mikhail Youzhny and Lleyton Hewitt concedes with a double fault. The Australian walks back towards his chair and looks at his racquet, as if he's asking his weapon 'what happened there, mate?'.Youzhny, leading 5-4, serving for the set.


    Five-time US Open champion Roger Federer: Thanks for all the kind messages I have gotten since last night! You guys are the best. You all inspire me to work hard everyday!

  135. 2035: 

    Backhand down the line from Mikhail Youzhny earns the Russian two break points... Lleyton Hewitt comes to the net, but the 31-year-old passes the Aussie and gives out a wild roar. The match is back on serve and the man from Moscow is back in the match.

  136. 2029: 

    Ekaterina Makarova hanging on against fifth seed Li Na. The Russian has broken back and it's even stevens at 5-5 in the second set.

    Li Na
  137. 2024: 

    Former world number one Lleyton Hewitt, of course, has dominated Mikhail Youzhny in their previous encounters, the indefatigable Aussie leading the head-to-head record 5-1. The crowd on Armstrong firmly in Camp Hewitt, trumpeting the former champion's every point. Forehand into the tramlines from Youzhny and Hewitt moves 4-1 up.

    Piers Newbery, BBC Sport in New York

    "Since the second set, Lleyton's settled into his normal game, playing down the middle of the court and letting Youzhny come to him," says Darren Cahill on ESPN. "It's going to be tough for Mikhail to come back from this." It's certainly looking that way as Hewitt takes 12 of the first 14 points to lead 3-0 in the fourth set. The 2001 champion has reached just one Grand Slam quarter-final in the last seven years, losing to Andy Roddick at WImbledon 2009, so this is a pretty big moment for 'Rocky'.

  139. 2016: 

    Li Na has broken Ekaterina Makarova in the second set and is serving for a 5-3 lead, while Lleyton Hewitt is dominating Mikhail Youzhny. The Australian 3-0 to the good in the fourth. The Russian, shoulders slumped, looks a defeated man.

  140. 2014: 

    Lleyton Hewitt has already been through three tough matches in New York and the Australian has also had to tap into his infinite reserves of willpower in this fourth round. The Aussie proving more resilient than his opponent as Mikhail Youzhny is wobbling, dropping serve to fall 2-0 behind in the fourth set.

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    Michael Blighe: This Hewitt v Youzhny match is brutal. Both players can hit the ball with such ferocity. Hard to pick a winner here.

  142. 2007: 

    Mikhail Youzhny sets off on a sprint across the baseline. If he's going down, he's going down fighting. The Russian attempts a forehand winner down the line, but it drifts into the tramlines and Lleyton Hewitt clenches his fist. The third set his his - a 7-6 (7-3) tie-break win.

    Lleyton Hewitt
  143. 2002: 

    The Aussies in the crowd are now in full voice, singing Ogi Ogi Ogi. An ugly backhand from Mikhail Youzhny and the Russian trudges to the other side of the net at the changeover with Lleyton Hewitt 5-1 to the good.


    Andy Murray's former coach Darren Cahill: 3rd set tiebreak for Hewitt & Youzhny. Both guys have played 303 career tiebreaks. Hewitt has won 159, Youzhny has won 158. Huge moment.

  145. 1955: 

    Tension? Pressure? What of is, says Lleyton Hewitt as he holds to love to force the third set into a tie-break. The 32-year-old's loyal followers are chanting "Let's Go Lleyton" and their man engineers an early mini break.

  146. 1953: 

    A drop shot winner from Mikhail Youzhny the highlight of a solid hold from the Russian, who edges 6-5 ahead after surprisingly breaking Hewitt when the Australian was serving from the set.

    Piers Newbery, BBC Sport in New York

    Jamie Murray and John Peers nearly take it all the way against thirds seeds Bruno Soares and Alexander Peya, saving three break points and then two match points in the third set, but the Brazil-Austria team's returning gets the job done. "It feels like home here," says Peya afterwards to the cheers of a healthy Brazilian contingent. The Austrians are keeping a lower profile.

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    Nic MacLellan: I've always liked Youzhny, but my heart belongs to Hewitt. COME ON!

    Nathan: YES HEWITT!

    Cameron Fawcett: Wow. That rally. Lleyton Hewitt is still insane.

  149. 1946: 

    Li Na has won the first set 6-4 against Ekaterina Makarova. The 31-year-old from China has a 100% record against the Russian, winning all of their previous three meetings. What is there to say about Makarova? The 25-year-old, who is bidding to reach a Grand Slam semi-final for the first time in her career, beat Serena Williams in the fourth round of last year's Australian Open.

  150. 1942: 

    Double fault from Mikhail Youzhny gives Lleyton Hewitt two break points. The duo embark on a mammoth baseline slug-fest... 44 shots... 45 shots... then Hewitt conjures a brilliant backhand winner down the line to break the Russian's resolve. The Australian raises his arms and the crowd roar. Hewitt now serving for the set.

  151. 1937: 

    It's with serve at 3-3 in the first set between Li Na and 24th seed Ekaterina Makarova on Ashe, while a few steps away on Louis, Lleyton Hewitt and Mikhail Youzhny are entertaining the crowd with some magnificent rallies. A backhand volley sees Hewitt level at 4-4 in the third.

  152. 1921: 
    Lleyton Hewitt

    Prior to this match, Hewitt had spent more than 10 hours on court during these championships. The 32-year-old has a few more miles left in his limbs, though, as a breaks back with a crafty lob over the backpeddaling Youzhny. The Australian serving for the chance to level at 3-3.

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    Andy Sugden: Ekaterina Makarova is a 9 syllable, 17 letter name. It's great to say. Try it

  154. 1910: 

    Lleyton Hewitt and Mikhail Youzhny have been offering up a succession of entertaining rallies, with the opening games of the third set going to serve at 1-1 as they battle for a place in the last eight.

  155. 1902: 

    Lleyton Hewitt is a man who knows a thing or two about comebacks and the former champion, who defeated Juan Martin del Potro in five sets earlier in the tournament, has won the second set 6-3 against Mikhail Youzhny.

    Piers Newbery, BBC Sport in New York

    Jamie Murray and Aussie John Peers have been on the back foot for much of their match against third seeds Alexander Peya and Brunoa Soares on Court 17, creating just one break point to the Austrian/Brazilian combo's six, but they were broken only once and forced a second set tie-break. There was nothing in it with the Brit/Aussie team leading 5-4 on serve, but two double-faults in a row gift them the set and the comeback is on.

  157. 1853: 

    The men's doubles quarter-final on Court 17 involving Britain's Jamie Murray is into a second set tie-break. Edge-of-the-seat stuff as it's currently 3-3.

  158. 1843: 
    Victoria Azarenka (left) and Ana Ivanovic

    Victoria Azarenka has played Daniela Hantuchova on four previous occasions. Who has the edge in the head-to-head? Neither. Both have two victories apiece. Azarenka, though, enjoyed the most recent victory, a straight sets win in Indian Wells this year.

  159. 1835: 

    "She played really amazing tennis in the first set," says Victoria Azarenka of her opponent. "I really had to wake up in the second set and fight for the points. In the second set, I felt I was more determined and focused and really taking those opportunities."

    Azarenka on her quarter-final opponent Daniela Hantuchova: "Daniela is a great player, she's playing the best tennis of her life. We always have tough battles. We practice together sometimes so there will definitely be no surprises there."

  160. 1831: 

    Ana Ivanovic digging deep, a gutsy forehand crosscourt winner staving off one match point, but Victoria Azarenka collects a second match point and Ivanovic is toast, Azarenka coming out on top 4-6 6-3 6-4 to set up a last eight match with Daniela Hantuchova.

  161. 1831: 

    Mikhail Youzhny wraps up the first set 6-3 against Lleyton Hewitt, while it's with serve in the second set of the men's doubles match involving Jamie Murray and John Peers. But it's time to hop back on to Ashe, match point Azarenka....

  162. 1828: 

    Match point... break point... Match point.. break point... a fitting end to topsy-turvy of a match you could say, but is it the end? A fabulous forehand winner on the run gives Ivanovic her second break point, though she squanders her chance with a sloppy return. Ivanovic whacks a return into the tape, second match point Azarenka... the Belarusian nets. Two careless errors from Azarenka and Ivanovic pounces, directing a whizzing forehand towards the second seed's feet for a fabulous winner.

  163. 1818: 

    Two break points to Victoria Azarenka. Ana Ivanovic composes herself, the Serb distracted by something or someone in the crowd, before launching a bullet of a serve out wide and finishing the point with an inside-out forehand winner. The second seed, though, has one more chance. She pins Ivanovic on the baseline and the Serb's movement is sluggish, a clunky backhand into the tramlines giving Azarenka the break and a 5-3 lead.

  164. 1811: 

    The fourth round match between Ana Ivanovic and Victoria Azarenka is an unpredictable old tussle. One minute Ivanovic is on the ropes, then Azarenka seems to be faltering... If only Ana Ivanovic could hold serve... If only Victoria Azarenka could hold serve... Hang on! An overjoyed Ivanovic kicks the air in delight as a wayward Azarenka forehand allows the Serb to hold and level at 3-3!

    On Louis Armstrong, old timer Lleyton Hewitt is 5-1 down to 21st seed Mikhail Youzhny.

    Victoria Azarenka
  165. 1801: 

    The news from Court 17 is not good, although there are plenty of reasons to remain optimistic. Jamie Murray and John Peers were unable to take the first set, with Alexander Peya and Bruno Soares taking it 6-4. Murray and Peers have two sets to make amends.

  166. 1758: 

    Oh la la! A fabulous forehand return from Ana Ivanovic suggest there's plenty of life left in the Serbian's racquet. Azarenka, though, serves and volleys her way out of trouble for deuce. An eighth double fault of the match from Azarenka has the folk on Ashe encouraging Ivanovic to launch a fightback and a lovely, delicate, perfectly-timed lob earns Ivanovic the break, and the crowd applaud her spirit. If the 25-year-old can hold serve, she will level at 2-2.

  167. 1751: 

    Ana Ivanovic has been broken in six of her last seven service games. The Serbian looks unlikely to reach the quarter-finals at Flushing Meadows for the second consecutive year. Victoria Azarenka leading 2-0 in the third set and a clumsy forehand volley from her opponent suggests this match will soon be over.

  168. 1747: 

    Su-Wei Hsieh and Shuai Peng have beaten Jelena Jankovic and Mirjana Lucic-Baroni 6-4 6-2 in the third round of the women's doubles. The end of that match means Lleyton Hewitt and Mikhail Youzhny are free to trot onto Louis Armstrong for their fourth round bash.

  169. 1742: 

    A ear-splitting scream from Victoria Azarenka as she breaks the increasingly fragile Ana Ivanovic to clinch the second set 6-3. The Serbian's serve was broken with ease in that set and the result is a third set decider.

    Victoria Azarenka
  170. 1740: 

    It's been a solid opening to the first set by Jamie Murray and John Peers in the men's doubles quarter-final against Alexander Peya and Bruno Soares. It's on serve at 2-2.

  171. 1730: 

    In terms of sporting difficult, Victoria Azarenka and Ana Ivanovic have made holding serve seem akin to climbing the Pyrenees on a bicycle. There were seven successive breaks of serve before Azarenka stopped the rot. The 24-year-old is a break up and is serving for a 5-3 lead in the second set.

  172. 1720: 

    Victoria Azarenka is shrugging her shoulders and grumbling to her clan in the players' box. Last year's finalist looks like she's on the verge of losing her cool after a double fault allows Ana Ivanovic to break back in the second game of the second set. But the second seed refocuses and a double fault from the Serbian gifts Azarenka her second break of the set for a 2-1 lead.

  173. 1714: 

    "Were obviously disappointed," said Marray after the defeat to the top seeds. "I thought we played a good match and had chances. They're so good at snuffing them out and they make you play that one extra ball. That's why they've won so many tournaments. But I think we can take a lot of positives from the week."

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    Grant Sutcliffe: I think now the game has moved on from the elegance of Roger. It's more about the athleticism of Rafa Novak and Andy!

  175. 1708: 

    Jamie Murray and his Australian buddy John Peers will soon appear on Court 17 to begin their quarter-final battle with second seeds Alexander Peya and Bruno Soares in the men's doubles. Murray will be hoping to at least go one stage further than his Davis Cup team-mates Colin Fleming and Jonny Marray who, on Monday, lost their last eight ding-dong with the Bryan brothers 7-6 (9-7) 6-4.

    John Peers and Jamie Murray (right)
  176. 1704: 

    Who said close wasn't close enough for Ana Ivanovic? Nonsense. The 13th seed recovers from losing her serve to break the second seed and grabbing the first set 6-4 before a subdued crowd on Ashe.

  177. 1700: 

    Who said Ana Ivanovic was close to winning the first set? Nonsense. Close is not close enough, it seems, when you're playing the Australian Open champion and one of the favourites for this championship. The Serbian saved two break points, but was helpless in preventing Victoria Azarenka from breaking back with an overhead smash. The Belarusian is serving to level at 5-5.

  178. 1655: 

    While Ana Ivanovic is closing on the first set, perhaps now is a good time to mention today's schedule on Arthur Ashe. Here it is:

    Ana Ivanovic (SRB) v Victoria Azarenka (BLR)

    Ekaterina Makarova (RUS) v Li Na (CHN)

    Novak Djokovic (SRB) v Marcel Granollers (ESP)

    Serena Williams (USA) v Carla Suarez Navarro (ESP)

    Andy Murray (GBR) v Denis Istomin (UZB)

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    Stephen Jones: Federer can still wow anyone, but now seems to have more bad days and other players are taking advantage. Will always be the King.

  180. 1647: 
    Ana Ivanovic

    An-eeeee-way. There are plenty more tennis players in the sea, or something like that, and why not start with Victoria Azarenka and Ana Ivanovic, mainly because the pair are currently on Arthur Ashe. Second seed Azarenka has had better starts to a tennis match. The lady from Minsk has already exchanged stern words with the umpire and fallen 4-2 behind in the first set to the Serbian.

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    Vishal Saxena: This loss is really gonna hurt Federer. Straight sets as well. The way he played here was worse than against Stakhovsky

    Mandy Jones: One more Wimby left then i think maybe that'll be it. Maybe!

    Piers Newbery, BBC Sport in New York

    After a lengthy rain delay on Monday, day nine is looking a little brighter with, apparently, a 30% chance of rain during the day session. The clouds are expected to return for the night session but when Serena Williams and Andy Murray take the spotlight. A tough week looms if Murray is to retain his title, with Tomas Berdych, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal expected to stand in his way, so he won't want to be delayed too long by Denis Istomin - or the weather.

  183. 1639: 
    Roger Federer

    "We have witnessed so much artistry and dominance flow from Federer's racket so recently that it's hard to accept that age, and some significantly younger and phenomenally talented players, have caught up with him," says BBC tennis correspondent Russell Fuller. "We will have to settle for 17 Grand Slam titles. Even if I am still desperately hoping to be proved wrong."

  184. 1635: 

    But can Federer come back stronger after his surprise defeat to the Spaniard? The seventh seed converted just two of 16 break point chances and his usually magical forehand made him look like a muggle. It would be lovely to hear from you so, in between watching the tennis and digging into a pastrami bloomer, lob a text to 81111 or tweet #bbctennis with your musings.

    You could also make your feelings known on BBC Sport's Facebook page. Thanking you in advance.

  185. 1632: 

    "I kind of feel like I beat myself, without taking any credit away from Tommy," said the five-time US Open champion after his 7-6 (7-3) 6-3 6-4 defeat by a man who had previously not beaten the Swiss in 10 attempts.

    "I've definitely got to go back to work and come back stronger, get rid of this loss now as quick as I can, forget about it, because that's not how I want to play from here on."

  186. 1628: 
    Tommy Robredo

    Hello! Welcome to live text commentary of day nine of the US Open. The skies over New York still look unhappy, perhaps brooding over the quarter-final that could have been. Yes, Roger Federer's time in Flushing Meadows is done and it is his conqueror, Tommy Robredo, who will play Rafael Nadal in the last eight. Maybe we will never see two of the sports greats go toe-to-toe at Flushing Meadows...

  187. 1626: 
    Roger Federer

    Socks are still sopping, brollies have been laid to rest while the dank smell of soggy picnics still linger in the air. Who would have thought so many tears would be shed after Roger Federer's unexpected demise to Tommy Robredo on a Stormy Monday in New York.

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