E-Paper
Roddick enjoys People's Sunday
Andy Roddick got his first taste of a Wimbledon People's Sunday on court one and, despite a slightly subdued atmosphere, felt right at home.
Andy Roddick got his first taste of a Wimbledon People's Sunday on court one and, despite a slightly subdued atmosphere, felt right at home.
The American beat compatriot Taylor Dent 6-3 7-6 7-6 on what should have been a rest day to reach the fourth round.
Although the court was not packed, Roddick likened the atmosphere to New York where he won his only grand slam last year.
"The people that were there, you know, really wanted to be there. They were pretty loud," he said.
"By the end, it was a little bit better (more full). But that's not something I was too concerned with. I mean, this whole week's been whacky. Why not today, too?"
Organisers decided to play on the middle Sunday for the only the third time in the history of the tournament after losing two complete days due to rain.
"I mean, it (atmosphere) was pretty similar (to the U.S. Open). You know, they were getting into it... they were pretty loud and even though there was a small crowd, I could definitely feel them.
"I could feel their energy. It was similar in that aspect."
Roddick was thrilled with the decision to play on the traditional rest day.
"I wanted to go, man. I've been sitting around. I feel like I haven't done anything this week," he said.
"I definitely wanted to get out there and play. I was extremely pleased with the decision and I think it was the right one.
"It's perfect weather today. You know, they're getting a lot of matches in."
Roddick faces Germany's Alexander Popp in the last-16 on Monday -- weather permitting.
