Staying Up For Sharapova

This year, dear readers, I subscribed to Sky television for the sole reason that Test Cricket is no longer shown on Channel Four, or indeed anywhere else live on traditional television. It has meant some additional bonuses such as being able to follow the US Open tennis, becoming an insomniac and alcoholic in the process, as most of the good stuff is on after twelve, including most of Maria Sharapova's matches.

Wimbledon will always be my favourite tournament, due to its magnificient well kept grass and appearance of the place, the Pimms, strawberries and traditions. Also, I will never forget sleeping on the pavement overnight to get in, with my wonderful friends from university. However, this fortnight so far at Flushing Meadow, has been quite something in tennis terms with some classic moments. Who could forget Andre Agassi's tearful goodbye to his career. For once, American sentiment seemed einterely appropriate, as everybody paid tribute to his genius.

Another sensation, was the five set battle between Andrew Murray and Fernando Gonzalez, with Murray coming from 2 sets down to win. It was awesome stuff. I am slowly forgiving Murray for his anti English comments during the World Cup, because he is now letting his talent do the talking. I was actually quite sad when he went out in the next round. Despite this, it is worth bearing in mind, that the Scot has beaten Federer this year and is going to be a formidable talent in 2007.

Tonight's semi final, between Man-resmo (not a spelling mistake) and Maria Sharapova was the icing on the cake for me, as Sharapova finally defeated the French woman who had knocked her out of this year's Wimbledon. Sharapova had not reached a final since her great win at Wimbledon in 2004, so this was a special moment to witness. Maria had also never beaten World No 1 Amelie in their three previous meetings, so I was nervous watching it. This time, however, the blonde bombshell, turned the tables and beat her in spectacular fashion, 6-0, 4-6 and then 6-0 again. This was a great riposte to the idle and inane sports writers of the UK who have been busy writing her off as a one trick pony, or moaning about her wonderous grunting. Next up, the final beckons, with Sharapova facing the talented Belgian Justine Henin-Hardenne.

Now what time, does this potential classic start, 1 am sunday morning.... looks like the gorgeous Sharapova will be keeping me up again!