Can Federer Stay on Top?

He's been the number one guy in the world of men's tennis for years. He's the guy everybody else measures themselves up to and find themselves lacking - except for the French Open. Aside of that elusive event, Roger Federer still holds his crown as the king of tennis as he started the process of making another mark in history: winning a possible fourth consecutive U.S. Open title.

Even for those who don't like Federer, you've got to respect the fact that the guy has game. You don't remain number one for three and a half years by being some over-rated piece of yellow tennis ball fluff. No, even those who aren't a Fed-fan have got to admit he's an excellent tennis player.

I myself am a fan of Roger. He's got amazing touch and can make that ball go wherever he pleases - as many of his opponents will readily attest to. I also think he's got class on the court. Remember when he was young (and he's oh-so-old now, isn't he? If I could be half as successful at 36 as he is at 26 I would be ecstatic)? He was a wild child. What a temper! But he was fun to watch back then even. The years added finesse, titles, records, rankings and lots of moolah to boost his new clothing line.

Hopefully some competition cracks out soon, though. Nadal is good. You know you're watching an athlete when he's on the court. Back in the day, I held hopes for our boy Roddick. He consistently makes a dent in a lot of tournaments. He also consistently doesn't make it to where he needs to be - in the championship round of slams. My hopes are fading - they aren't gone yet and probably never will be since I'm a sucker for lost causes - but he needs to make his move if ever he's going to do it.

But for right now, it's Roger at the top. Nothing new. Can he win U.S. Open number four?

Round one says he can.

Roger that.