How One Player Can Influence A Grand Slam — By Not Showing Up

It’s semifinal time at the US Open, the annual stateside Grand Slam venue for professional tennis at Flushing Meadows in Queens, New York. The women play today, the men on Saturday.

So far, we’ve seen American Andy Roddick play his last pro match after announcing his retirement, and the exit of number one seed Roger Federer at the hands of sixth-seeded Tomas Berdych from the Czech Republic.

And Wall Street Journal reporter Tom Perrotta says that the men’s side has been influenced by the lack of Rafael Nadal, who did not enter the tournament because of an injury.

“Nadal has really left a mark on this tournament without being here. And not being here for the final weekend… leaves an opening for everyone,” Perrotta told Here & Now‘s Sacha Pfeiffer.

Meanwhile, Serena Williams is steam rolling along the women’s bracket and looks poised to capture another Grand Slam title.

Guest:

• Tom Perrotta, reporter for the Wall Street Journal.