From Monsters and Critics.com

Tennis
SIDEBAR: Slowpoke Nadal won't set the pace for Federer
By DPA
Jul 5, 2008, 14:12 GMT

London - Rapid Roger Federer won't be put off by the habitual go-slow tactics of Wimbledon finals opponent Rafael Nadal when the pair meet in Sunday's final.

Nadal is noted for taking his own sweet time - especially in tight match situations - when he needs to think his way out of a court crisis.

Clockwork Federer will remain traditionally cool under fire despite Nadal antics which tread the line between gamesmanship and ultimate preparation before a point.

'There's a fine line. He can take 20 seconds and then 10 or 15 seconds until he serves,' said the Swiss on Saturday. 'It's a tricky situation.

'The umpire will warn him but won't give a penalty point so he doesn't feel the heat.'

While avoiding any criticism of the longtime number two, Federer admitted: 'It used to be irritating but I think he's speeded it up a little bit. I feel like he's playing fair.'

Players are allowed 20 points between the end of one point and the start of serve on the next, an apparently entirely flexible concept to the Spaniard.

Federer said his rival often used the full 20 seconds just getting into position to serve, wiping himself after each point, taking three balls for inspection and picking his shorts before finally delivering.

'He's not as slow as he used to be,' said the precise Swiss. 'It's not gamesmanship but if it's on the edge I'm aware of it and then it's up to the umpire.'



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