Bjorn Again: Frantangelo in Paris, That Is

He wins again, and is in the semi-finals of the French Open Juniors.

I'm talking about American, Bjorn Frantangelo.  He's an Italian-American whi grew up in Pittsburgh, but his father was a big Bjorn Borg fan in the 70's and 80's and hence his first name.

Here's an interview the USTA did with him earlier today and posted on USTA.com.  He's a guy you can really root for.

Here's a short clip of him playing earlier this year on hardcourts.  His game is very Roddick-like, so the results at Roland Garros are a bit of a surprise.  He's one to watch in the next 12 months.

Day 5: French Open Match of the Day - Malisse vs. Verdasco

If you like pure, unfiltered tennis shotmaking, this is the match for you.

I see it as a pretty even steven contest as clay isn't the best surface for either of these players. 

They have only played once, that was in a Davis Cup tie earlier this year on hardcourts.  Verdasco won in straight sets, but Malisse is sneaky good in big situations. 

Prediction:  I think Verdasco might have a little too much, but it's going to be close - 5 close sets.

iPad Free App of the Week: French Open Tennis

The offical app for this year's French Open, or Roland Garros as the Europeans like to call it.

Features iPhone/iPad:

- Real-time scores, point by point
- Live matches and video best-of
- Real-time breaking news + photos
- Draws and results
- Video highlights, behind the scenes coverage
and interviews
- player bios
- available in 2 languages
- visitor’s guide + map of stadium
- the official Roland Garros radio
- access to Orange Sport mobile website

Not quite as easy to use as the U.S. Open tennis app was, but still a must have for free.

Day 2: French Open Match of the Day - Del Potro vs. Karlovic

Two big guys in action on Day 2 at Roland Garros.

Juan Martin Del Potro appeared to be back to full strength about a month ago, but he had to take some time off to heal from another injury, possibly resulting from playing too much.

Karlovic is a big server, but clay isn't his best surface.  If nothing else, this match should provide for some excellent shotmaking and interesting points.

Look for Del Potro to get by in this one in 3 entertaining sets.

Day 1: French Open Match of the Day - Hewitt and Montanes

Lleyton Hewitt vs. Albert Montanes

Lleyton Hewitt returns to Paris for what might be his final French Open.  Hewitt is returning to the tour as he's been injured since Indian Wells.

Montanes is currently ranked #37 and should be in much better shape for a 3 out of 5 set match on clay.  Still, you can never count out a veteran like Hewitt.

Look for Montanes to win in 4.