MX23RW : Thursday, April 18 05:39:15| >> :600:366471646:366471646:

Live Commentary: US Open day 10 - as it happened

With Sports Mole's text coverage of day ten at the US Open, recap on memorable wins for Tomas Berdych, Andy Murray and Maria Sharapova.

Good afternoon and welcome to Sports Mole's live coverage from day 10 of the US Open.

Following yesterday's rain in New York, we have more top players than expected competing at Flushing Meadows over the course of this evening.

Before the day is out we will see Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Roger Federer, Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams.

As always, you won't miss a single shot with us here.


4.48amThat concludes Sports Mole's coverage of day 10 at the US Open. We will be back at 5pm to bring you Janko Tipsarevic vs. David Ferrer and Juan Martin del Potro vs. Novak Djokovic.

4.43amFederer converted four out of six break points (67%), while Berdych was five from 11 (45%).

4.41amBerdych outaced Federer 14 to seven. Both players produced three double faults.

4.40amBerdych delivered the fastest serve at a speed of 137mph.

4.39amThe Czech won 119 points in total, compared to his opponent's 106.

4.38amBerdych hit 30 winners and made 21 unforced errors.

4.37amFederer made 44 winners, however one of the major factors behind his defeat were the 40 unforced errors that he produced.

4.36amHere are some of the key stats from Berdych's stunning shock win.

4.33amSo, it will be sixth seed Tomas Berdych who will take on Britain's Andy Murray for a place in the final at Flushing Meadows. As mentioned earlier, the Czech has a 4-2 winning record against the Scot.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 6-3 4-6 BerdychGame set and match Berdych! The Czech holds to love by coming up with four huge first serves, to which Federer has no response.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 6-3 4-5* BerdychBerdych breaks! He will now serve for a place in his first ever US Open semi-final.

4.24amBreak point Berdych!

4.23amStunning off-balance volley from Federer. 30-30.

4.22amTwo loose Federer forehands put Berdych 15-30 ahead. A third appears to bring up two break, but the Swiss challenges and is reprieved. The point will be replayed.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 6-3 *3-4 BerdychMake that eight games, as Berdych holds to 30.

4.17amThere has not been a break of serve for seven games now - the longest dry spell of the match so far.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 6-3 3-3* BerdychSimilar story for Federer, who recovers from 15-30 to hold and level the fourth set again.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 6-3 *3-2 BerdychBerdych wins four consecutive points to hold from 0-30 down.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 6-3 2-2* BerdychAnother love service game for Federer.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 6-3 *1-2 BerdychBerdych holds to 15 to edge ahead again.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 6-3 1-1* BerdychThe Umpire is fine and so is Federer's form right now. The Swiss holds to 30.

3.59amTwo big first serves from Federer level the game at 30-30. Berdych gets a strong racquet on one of them but, instead of finding the court, he slams his return into the umpire's chest.

3.57amHere we go again... Berdych has won the first two points on Federer's serve.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 6-3 *0-1 BerdychHe does exactly that (to 15)

3.53amRight then, Berdych, who has lost his last two service games, really needs to stop the rot and hold at the start of set four...

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 6-3 BerdychSet three to Federer. Two sublime drop shots help him hold to 30 and, out of nowhere, the Swiss is now the favourite for this match.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 *5-3Hawk-eye shows that it was marginally out and Federer will now serve for the third set.

3.48amFederer breaks again! Or does he? Berdych's forehand volley is called just wide, but the Czech is challenging...

3.47amDouble break point for Federer! The world number one has finally hit top form. A delightful cross-court backhand makes it 15-40.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 4-3* BerdychFederer holds to love and the pressure is now on Berdych all of a sudden.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 *3-3 BerdychFederer breaks! Berdych double faults again and the American crowd explode into applause!

3.39amFederer produces a couple of errors to level the game, but then Berdych goes long with a forehand and the Swiss has a break point!

3.37amHuge chance for Federer to get back into this, as a Berdych double fault sees Federer take a 0-30 lead.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 2-3* BerdychFederer holds to 15.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 *1-3 BerdychBerdych's 11th ace gives him another comfortable hold. A Federer comeback is looking far from likely.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 1-2* BerdychFederer holds to 15.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 *0-2 BerdychBerdych holds to love. The Czech is in total control right now.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 0-1* BerdychBerdych breaks! Nightmare start for Federer, who produces two more unforced errors to fall behind at the start of set three.

3.21amIt will be if he keeps playing shots like that though. Federer fires wide and is 0-30 down in the opening game of set three.

3.20amFederer has come from behind to win on eight occasions throughout his career... This is not over.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-6 BerdychSecond set to Berdych! He seals it with his eighth ace of the match.

3.17amAce number seven for Berdych brings about three set points. 40-0.

Federer 6-7(1) 4-5* BerdychFederer holds to 15 to pile the pressure on his opponent, who will now try again to serve for the second set.

Federer 6-7(1) *3-5 BerdychFederer breaks! Stunning response from the first seed, who breaks to love.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-5* BerdychBerdych breaks! Berdych secures a double break by taking game 20 to 30. He will now serve for a two-set lead.

Federer 6-7(1) *2-4 BerdychBerdych holds to love.

Federer 6-7(1) 2-3* BerdychFederer holds in stunning style to keep his hopes alive in the second set.

2.59amFederer comes up with three huge first serves, including his second ace, to take the game to deuce.

2.58amThree break points for Berdych...

Federer 6-7(1) *1-3 BerdychFederer is struggling to make an impact on the Berdych serve right now. The Czech holds to 15.

Federer 6-7(1) 1-2* BerdychFederer holds to love for the first time in the match.

Federer 6-7(1) *0-2 BerdychBerdych's sixth ace of the match helps him consolidate his break by holding to 30. Federer has only produced one ace so far.

Federer 6-7(1) 0-1* BerdychFederer goes wide again and Berdych breaks! What a start to the second set for the sixth seed.

Federer *6-7(1) BerdychBreak Point for Berdych! 30-40

Federer 6-7(1) BerdychBerdych converts his first set point to complete his tie-break demolition of the world number one. It will be very interesting to see how Federer responds to that...

First-set tie-breakFederer 1-6* Berdych. Five set points for the Czech.

First-set tie-breakMake that 5-1, as Berdych crushes Federer's tame second serve.

First-set tie-breakShocking mishit from Federer. He now trails 4-1.

First-set tie-breakFederer 1-3* Berdych

First-set tie-breakFederer 1-2* Berdych

First-set tie-breakFederer goes long. Mini break to Berdych, who leads 2-0.

First-set tie-breakFederer makes a surprisingly poor volley at the net and Berdych is fortunate to take the first point of the breaker (on his serve).

Federer 6-6 BerdychThe sixth consecutive game goes with serve and this opening set will be settled by a tie-break.

Federer *6-5 BerdychFaultless response from Berdych, as he delivers the match's first love service game.

Federer 5-5* BerdychGreat hold from Federer (to 15), as he twice brings out the drop-shot to devastating effect. Pippa Middleton is still here and she looks mesmerised.

Federer *4-5 BerdychAnother ace for Berdych followed by a 16th unforced error from Federer give the Czech a vital hold. Federer will now serve to stay in this first set.

2.22amAn ace for Berdych followed by a 15th unforced error from Federer take us to 30-30.

2.21amTwo outstanding baseline returns from Federer pile the pressure on Berdych. 0-30

Federer 4-4* BerdychThose new balls seem to have reinvigorated Federer. He holds to 15 in double-quick time.

2.16amFederer has won less than 50% of points behind his first serve so far tonight. He looks like he could really do with some new balls. Here they come...

Federer *4-3 BerdychBig serving from Berdych helps him hold to 30 and take the lead for the first time this evening.

Federer 3-3* BerdychBerdych Breaks!. The Czech converts at the first time of asking and it is all square again.

2.11amBerdych forces his opponent onto the backfoot with a flurry of powerful and precise forehands. Out of nowhere, the Czech has three break points!

Federer *3-2 BerdychBerdych holds to 15.

Federer *3-2 BerdychBerdych holds to 15.

Federer 3-1* BerdychFederer holds with ease.

Federer 3-1* BerdychFederer holds with ease.

Federer *2-1 BerdychBerdych gets his first game on the board by holding to 30.

Federer 2-0* BerdychFederer regains his composure and holds to deuce.

1.54amFederer saves the break point with a stunning cross-court forehand, however he then hands his opponent another straight away by slashing an ugly backhand into the net. Advantage Berdych.

1.53amFederer goes long with an easy forehand and Berdych has an immediate chance to break back. 30-40.

Federer *1-0 BerdychFederer Breaks! The Swiss starts as he means to go on, by forcing three break points and converting at the third time of asking.

1.45amWe are underway!

1.41amHere are your final head-to-head stats of the night... Federer holds an 11-4 record over Berdych. The Swiss has prevailed on three of their five meetings on hard courts.

1.40amEven more surprising perhaps is that Murray has a positive 9-8 win/loss record against Federer - the current world number one.

1.39amYou would have thought that Murray would surely prefer to face Berdych. However, the Scot has lost four of his six meetings with the big Czech.

1.38amRight then, Murray's semi-final opponent will now be discovered. Roger Federer and Tomas Berdych are almost ready to begin on Arthur Ashe Stadium.

1.30amMurray won a total of 124 points, while Cilic won 19 fewer (105).

1.28amMurray had a 42% break point conversion rate, converting eight of 19. Cilic's BPCR was slightly higher at 44%. The Croatian took four of his nice chances.

1.26amMurray's dominance when coming forward is highlighted by the fact that he won 19 of 22 points at the net (86%)

1.25amMurray made 39 winners and 31 unforced errors, while Cilic was 32 and 50.

1.24amMurray recorded the fastest serve - 132mph

1.23amCilic was guilty of making six double faults - two more than the Scot.

1.22amDespite Cilic's reputation as a serial ace-hitter, he only made two. Meanwhile, Murray hit 11.

1.21amThe match duration was exactly three hours, 74 minutes of which were taken up by that epic second set.

1.20amLet's now take a look at a few key stats from Murray's brilliant win over Cilic...

1.17amSerena Williams is safely through to the semi-finals of the women's singles draw. She has beaten Serbia's Ana Ivanovic 6-1 6-3

1.09amOn his stunning comeback, he simply says: "I stated playing better."

1.08amHe says that his slow start was a result of swtiching from Arthur Ashe Stadium to Louis Armstrong, where the court is a lot faster.

1.07amSpeaking to Annabel Croft, Murray says that he "kept fighting" and capitalised when Cilic "got a little bit nervous"...

Game set and match Murray!Murray holds to 15 and it is over! He was a set and 5-1 down but, after winning, 18 of the next 21 games - including a second-set tie-break - he prevails 3-6 7-6(4) 6-2 6-0.

Murray 3-6 7-6(4) 6-2 *5-0 CilicAnother Murray Break! He wins it to 30 and is now potentially just four points away from victory.

12.55amOver on Ashe, it has taken Serena Williams just 25 minutes to win the first set against Ana Ivanovic 6-1.

Murray 3-6 7-6(4) 6-2 4-0* CilicHe doesn't and Murray holds! The Scot has now won nine consecutive games. He requires just two more to reach the semis.

12.47am15-40 on Murray's serve. Cilic must convert one of these break points if he is to have any chance of a comeback.

Murray 3-6 7-6(4) 6-2 *3-0 CilicMurray Breaks! He converts at the first time of asking, as Cilic flaps an awkward overhead long.

12.43amDouble fault from Cilic sets up three more break points. The Croatian looks defeated.

Murray 3-6 7-6(4) 6-2 2-0* CilicMurray consolidates his early break by holding to 15. As David 'Bumble' Lloyd would say, "Start the car!"

Murray 3-6 7-6(4) 6-2 *1-0 CilicMurray Breaks! He is on his way to the semi-finals. I know it, he knows it and Pippa Middleton, who is watching on with a glazed expression from the stands, probably knows it too!

12.38amTwo break points for Murray. Cilic is getting desperate, trying to change his fortunes. The Croatian rushes to the net, only to get a metaphorical nose bleed and paddle the ugliest of volleys four feet wide.

12.36amA third unsuccessful challenge from Cilic within a matter of minutes. The Croatian had indeed crashed wide and is 0-15 down as a result.

Murray 3-6 7-6(4) 6-2 CilicSecond Set to Murray! Two more big first serves clinch a difficult game for the British number one. He is now one set away from a place in the last four at Flushing Meadows.

12.31amThe Croatian slices wide and, despite a desperate challenge, we are at deuce.

12.30am30-40. Break point for Cilic.

Murray 3-6 7-6(4) *5-2 CilicBREAK! Murray converts the second break point as Cilic drives wide. The Scot will now serve for the second set.

12.26amHowever, back on Louis Armstrong, Murray has got three break points.

12.25amSerena Williams and Ana Ivanovic have just got underway on Arthur Ashe. We will keep you updated with proceedings in that match.

Murray 3-6 7-6(4) 4-2* CilicBig hold for the Scot, secured by an equally-massive ace.

12.21amDeuce. Cilic responds with a brilliant Murray-esque backhand return.

12.20amCilic looks disgusted with himself as he plunders a very gettable backhand into the net. Game point Murray.

12.19amMurray replies in kind... 30-30

12.18amMurray has been a little too passive in this game so far. He is down 15-30 following a super baseline forehand from Cilic.

12.16amThe Scot is now ahead for the first time tonight.

Murray 3-6 7-6(4) *3-2 CilicMURRAY BREAKS! with a stunning cross-court backhand.

12.14amSecond serve...

12.14amAnother slack forehand into the net sets up break point for Murray.

12.13amCilic had seemed to be cruising to another hold, however a double fault, followed by a tame forehand into the net takes us to deuce.

Murray 3-6 7-6(4) 2-2* CilicMurray lets out a huge Scottish "come on" after nailing back-to back aces to hold to 30.

12.08amI believe that Murray's superior fitness will start to play a huge role in this match very soon. Cilic, who was forced to do a lot of running during the backend of set two, changed his shirt, shorts and socks during the set interval. Sweaty.

Murray 3-6 7-6(4) *1-2 CilicAnother comfortable hold for Cilic - this time to love - but you call Andy Murray flared jeans because he has made a huge comeback here!

12.02amAnyway, that's enough from me for this evening. I'll now hand you over to the enlightening mind of Robert Summerscales, who will guide you through to the close of play. Enjoy!

Murray 3-6 7-6(4) *0-1 CilicCilic doesn't seem to downhearted about losing that second set as he holds comfortably.

11.57pmThe Louis Armstrong Stadium is starting to fill up nicely now following the conclusion of Andy Roddick's match. Speaking of Roddick, you can see what the sporting world has had to say about his retirement here.

11.54pmHe never does it the easy way, does he?

11.53pmWhat a remarkable set! Murray deservedly found himself 5-1 down after some woeful tennis but picked himself up to force the tie-break and win it 7-4.

11.52pmSET! Murray 3-6 7-6(4) Cilic

SECOND SET TIE-BREAKMurray 6-4* Cilic

SECOND SET TIE-BREAKMurray 5-4* Cilic

SECOND SET TIE-BREAKMurray *4-4 Cilic

SECOND SET TIE-BREAKMurray *3-4 Cilic

SECOND SET TIE-BREAKMurray 2-4* Cilic

SECOND SET TIE-BREAKMurray 2-3* Cilic

SECOND SET TIE-BREAKMurray *2-2 Cilic

SECOND SET TIE-BREAKMurray *2-1 Cilic

SECOND SET TIE-BREAKMurray 2-0* Cilic

SECOND SET TIE-BREAKMurray 1-0* Cilic

Murray 3-6 6-6 CilicThat was a big game but Cilic shows guts to hold. Here comes the tie-break...

Murray 3-6 6-5* CilicMurray blasts through his service game to go ahead for the first time in the set. Not quite a full-blown momentum shift, but the Brit is in this match now.

Murray 3-6 *5-5 CilicBREAK! Cilic cracks! The Croatian double faults and we're back to 5-5. Murray won four straight games and is right back in this.

11.33pmGreat work from Cilic and somehow it's back to deuce!

11.31pmHere we go. Cilic hits the net with a backhand and Murray has three break points...

Murray 3-6 4-5* CilicA simple hold for Murray puts the pressure back on Cilic. Can the Croatian hold to take the second set?

Murray 3-6 *3-5 CilicBREAK! Hang on a minute, this set ain't over yet. Murray whips a forehand winner past Cilic and he has one break back.

11.24pmGreat stuff from both men but Murray gets it to deuce with a smart volley at the net following a full-blooded rally.

Murray 3-6 2-5* CilicWhoosh! A wonderful forehand from Murray brings up game point before he puts it away with an ace. Cilic serving for the second set and a 2-0 lead.

Murray 3-6 *1-5 CilicMurray was working his backhand well there and had the chance for a break point, but Cilic rallies to hold. The Scot serving to stay in this second set now.

11.11pmAndy Roddick: "I love you guys with all my heart.

"Hopefully I'll come back to this place someday and see you all again.

"One thing I'm not scared of about retirement are the people that I go home to."

Murray 3-6 1-4* CilicBREAK! Big problems for Murray now as he's broken for the second time in the set. He's still not with it out there.

Murray 3-6 *1-3 CilicThat's a fine game from Cilic. One minute he's putting pressure at the net, the next he's on the baseline whacking chunks out of the ball. His all-round game has been superb so far.

11.03pmWe'll have more reaction to that on the site as and when we get it but in the meantime Murray has held for the first time in the set to make it 1-2 with Cilic to serve.

11.02pmThere it is then. Andy Roddick's great career comes to an end after he is defeated by Juan Martin Del Potro. We knew this day was coming after he announced last week that he would be retiring when his run at the tournament ended. The American claimed 32 titles during his career but his crowning achievement was his win here at Flushing Meadows in 2003. There are plenty of tears out on the Arthur Ashe court as we bid farewell to a modern great.

10.58pmGAME, SET AND MATCH! Roddick 7-6(1) 6-7(4) 2-6 4-6 Del Potro

Murray 3-6 *0-2 CilicIt took some time but Cilic finally holds after Murray goes wide with a backhand. That was a fairly gruelling game and, quite possibly, a pivotal one in this embryonic second set.

10.54pmCilic saves another break point with ANOTHER smash...

10.52pmThese two really going at it in this game. Murray has the chance for another break point but and intense rally sees Cilic put home the smash to make it deuce.

10.51pmBut Murray himself finds the net with a backhand return.

10.50pmHis forehand hits the net again and brings up the break point for Murray.

10.50pmJust as I laud Cilic's consistency, he finds the net and it's deuce on his serve.

Murray 3-6 0-1* CilicBREAK! This isn't looking good for Murray as he is broken again. Cilic is just too good at the moment, harrying all over the court and putting away the shots that matter.

10.40pmMeanwhile, it's looking like Andy Roddick's career could have the curtain brought down on it sooner rather than later. He's already two sets to one down against Juan Martin Del Potro but the Argentine leads 4-2 in the fourth.

10.39pmCilic holds to take the set but that last game came down to one point. Murray hit what looked to be a good forehand, but it was called out. He challenged the call but HawkEye showed that it was out but a whisker. Cilic then put away a forehand to take the set and land the first blow in this one.

10.38pmSET! Murray 3-6 Cilic

Murray 3-5* CilicBREAK BACK! Murray goes long which means that Cilic will now serve for the set. Murray then slams his racket down in frustration. He is not a happy bunny.

10.33pmExcellent again from Cilic as another sweeping forehand winner brings up the break point.

10.31pmWow. That's some crosscourt forehand winner from Cilic and it's 30-30. That flew past Murray.

Murray *3-4 CilicBREAK! Murray can't take the first two break points but he converts the third when Cilic puts a backhand wide. The Scot is back in this one.

10.25pmBig chance now. The Croatian double faults and it's 0-40.

10.24pmCilic finds the net to give Murray the chance of a break, 0-30.

Murray 2-4* CilicMurray getting it together a bit now with some solid play at the baseline. He holds again.

Murray *1-4 CilicIn contrast, Cilic is looking as alert as can be. He's taking the fight to Murray and the Scot is yet to provide a riposte. Cilic holds again.

Murray 1-3* CilicMurray finally gets on the board with a comfortable hold. He just hasn't looked at the races yet.

Murray *0-3 CilicA cracking forehand sees Cilic consolidate the previous break with a hold. Murray shakes his head and so he might - he's been woeful so far, his head's still in the locker room.

10.08pmSET! Roddick 7-6(1) 6-7(4) 2-6 Del Potro

10.07pmBREAK! Oh dear. Murray whacks long and Cilic has the break. Not the start the Brit was hoping for.

Murray *0-1 CilicCilic gets the ball rolling with a fairly routine hold. It's a real sickener looking at those empty seats on Armstrong. There are plenty of fans there but you can forget about any sort of atmosphere.

10.00pmHere we go them, it'll be Cilic to serve first...

9.58pmMurray and Cilic are both going through their knock up now...

9.57pmMeanwhile, it looks like Andy Roddick is in trouble in the third set against Juan Martin Del Potro. The American is down 1-4 in that one with the match tied at one set all.

9.54pmSo, Marin Cilic emerges from the tunnel first to a light smattering of applause. Now it's Murray's turn and there's a bit more volume for the Brit. However, there are plenty of empty seats in the stadium. I'm guessing that's because of the late change of court and the ensuing logistical chaos that brings.

9.51pmThe last time that these two met was on the green, green grass of Wimbledon this year. Murray took that fourth-round tie in straight sets.

9.50pmHowever, Cilic's only triumph came right here at the US Open back in 2009. The Croatian recorded a surprise 7-5 6-2 6-2 win that day.

9.49pmThere's a bit of history between these two, but Murray currently has the upper hand with six victories from their seven encounters.

9.41pmAnyway, we're leaving this one for now to begin our coverage of Andy Murray's quarter-final tie with Marin Cilic inside the Louis Armstrong Stadium.

9.40pmOne thing you can be sure of, however, is that the home crowd will be doing their best to cheer Roddick over the finish line. They don't want to see him retire just yet.

9.40pmRoddick fails to get back a fizzing Del Potro forehand and the Argentine has the second set. You just get the feeling that the Argentine may prove too much for Roddick now.

9.39pmSET! Roddick 7-6(1) 6-7(4) Del Potro

9.38pmRoddick *4-6 Del Potro

9.38pmRoddick *3-6 Del Potro

9.37pmRoddick 3-5* Del Potro

9.36pmRoddick 3-4* Del Potro

9.35pmRoddick *2-4 Del Potro

9.34pmRoddick *1-4 Del Potro

9.33pmRoddick 1-3* Del Potro

9.32pmRoddick 1-2* Del Potro

9.31pmRoddick *0-2 Del Potro

9.30pmRoddick *0-1 Del Potro

Roddick 6-1 6-6 Del PotroRoddick again holds comfortably so we'll have another tie-break. Tense times out on Ashe.

Roddick 6-1 *5-6 Del PotroDel Potro using his trademark meaty forehand to grind Roddick down there and hold. Roddick serving to stay in the set.

9.23pmIncidentally, the winner of this one will take on Djokovic in the semi-finals.

Roddick 6-1 5-5* Del PotroDel Potro just can't live with the Roddick serve again as the American holds. Neither men really looking like they'll crack at the moment. (When I type that, someone usually cracks.)

9.19pmAs mentioned previously, we'll be following Murray's match with Cilic as soon as that one gets underway.

9.18pmWe're not too sure what's wrong with Wawrinka but it looks like he may have been suffering with an illness.

Roddick 6-1 *4-5 Del PotroMeanwhile, both Roddick and Del Potro hold serve comfortably.

9.16pmAnd it looks like Murray will be on sooner rather than later as Stanislas Wawrinka is forced to retire through injury in his match with Novak Djokvovic. The Swiss had lost the first two sets and was 1-3 down in the second before he pulled out. A real shame for Stan, but defending champion Djokovic marches on.

9.14pmGAME, SET AND MATCH! Djokovic 6-4 6-1 3-1(ret.) Wawrinka

9.13pmIt's probably worth pointing out that we'll be leaving this match as soon as Murray starts his fourth-round tie with Marin Cilic. Home interest and all that.

9.12pmRoddick had a friendly chat with the umpire during that game. I think he was unhappy with a television camera. The cameraman quickly disappeared back into his bunker.

Roddick 6-1 *3-4 Del PotroNot the easiest hold for Del Potro but he eventually comes through thanks to a solid volley at the net.

9.11pmOh, and that Murray match has also been moved to Louis Armstrong Stadium.

9.10pmNews coming out of Flushing Meadows says that Andy Murray's match with Marin Cilic will not be before 4.45pm local time. If my knowledge of time zones is up to scratch, I make that not before 9.45pm our time.

Roddick 6-1 3-3* Del PotroRoddick's serve once again helps him through to hold. Is this the last ever time we'll be seeing the iconic shot?

9.03pmBrilliant from Roddick. The pair get involved in another hard-hitting rally before the American wins the point with a deft volley. He's been quite superb at the net during this tournament.

Roddick 6-1 *2-3 Del PotroThe big Argentine goes on to hold and establish a 3-2 lead.

8.59pmWhat a rally. Both men bludgeon the ball from the back of the court before Del Potro whips a forehand out of Roddick's reach into the corner, 30-15.

8.57pmHello there! Amidst all of the madness of that changeover, Roddick held serve to level this set up at 2-2.

8.55pmAnd with that I shall pass you over to the very capable Jack Prescott, who will take you through to midnight. Jack...

8.54pmSET! Djokovic looks to be heading for victory after taking the second set against Wawrinka 6-1.

Roddick 6-1 *1-2 Del PotroDP is equally as impressive with the ball in hand. It already looks like it will take something special to claim a break in this set.

Roddick 6-1 1-1* Del PotroVery nicely is the answer! He serves out to love in 60 seconds flat. With the power that these two possess, there is sure to be similar games in this match.

Roddick 6-1 *0-1 Del PotroIt's a hold for Del Potro at the start of the second set. How will Roddick respond?

8.46pmGAME SET AND MATCH! Tipsarevic is through in straight-sets. The Serbian beats Kohlschreiber 6-3 7-6 6-2.

Roddick 6-1 0-0* Del PotroSET! Roddick has got it! Awesome performance from the American in the breaker sees him take it 7-1. Game on now.

FIRST SET TIE-BREAKRoddick *6-1 Del Potro

FIRST SET TIE-BREAKRoddick 5-1* Del Potro

FIRST SET TIE-BREAKRoddick 4-1* Del Potro

FIRST SET TIE-BREAKRoddick *3-1 Del Potro

FIRST SET TIE-BREAKRoddick *3-0 Del Potro

8.37pmAnd they're underway...

8.28pmHere they come...

8.26pmRoddick and Del Potro will be locked in a first-set tie-break when they return. A-Rod is currently leading 1-0 against the Argentine. You feel it's a set that Roddick must win if he is stand any chance of winning.

8.24pmSET! Don't worry though, we won't be completely ignoring Djoko! He's just one the first set of his match against Wawrinka 6-4.

8.23pmRight, where do we go from here then? With Novak Djokovic on court you'd think we would be heading there wouldn't you? Well, no! We are staying at the Arthur Ashe Stadium, where the retiring Andy Roddick will resume his match against Juan Martin Del Potro shortly.

8.18pmAnd here is our report of the encounter.

Bartoli 6-3 3-6 4-6 SharapovaGAME SET AND MATCH! Sharapova has done it. It was an epic battle between these two right to the end. Shara will now face Victoria Azarenka in the semi-finals.

8.16pmMATCH POINT SHARAPOVA...

8.16pmIt's currently 30 all...

8.12pmSET! Tipsarevic is now two sets to the good over Kohlschreiber following a 7-5 tie-break success.

Bartoli 6-3 3-6 4-5* SharapovaBREAK! And that, could be that! Awesome attack from Sharapova against Bartoli, who gave everything she had. It wasn't enough though and Sharapova is now serving for the match.

8.10pmTHIRD BREAK POINT SHARAPOVA...

8.07pmLong again! Just. A miss opportunity by the Russian. Deuce.

8.06pmThe first one from Sharapova goes long. One remaining...

8.06pmTWO BREAK POINTS SHARAPOVA...

Bartoli 6-3 3-6 *4-4 SharapovaPerfect response from Sharapova as she serves out to love. The dark clouds are descending though. Whoever is going to win this will have to be quick!

Bartoli 6-3 3-6 4-3* SharapovaSharapova takes her all the way to deuce, but Bartoli comes out on top. She's now two games away from winning this match.

7.53pmUNDERWAY! Defending champ Djokovic resumes his match with Wawrinka. Djoko is up 2-0 in the first set.

Bartoli 6-3 3-6 *3-3 SharapovaIt's not pretty, but Sharapova got the job done there! She battled back from 15-40 down.

7.49pmAnd another one bites the dust! Well played Sharapova. Deuce.

7.48pmSharapova gets one back. One more to save...

7.48pmTWO BREAK POINTS BARTOLI...

Bartoli 6-3 3-6 3-2* SharapovaA hold to love shows that Bartoli really means business here. It's not been a subtle match, but it's been a good one to watch nevertheless. Over to you Maria.

Bartoli 6-3 3-6 *2-2 SharapovaBREAK! My, my! What a response from Bartoli. She outpowers Sharapova, who could only manage to get to 30. Game well and truly on.

7.35pmGAME SET AND MATCH! Errani is through to semi-finals courtesy of a 6-2 6-4 win over fellow Italian Vinci. Match report.

Bartoli 6-3 3-6 1-2* SharapovaGotcha! A superb forehand stroke wrong-foots Bartoli and Sharapova has a break. A hold next time up could spell the end for the Bart.

7.33pmShe finds the net with the first one. Two to go...

7.32pmTHREE BREAK POINTS SHARAPOVA...

Bartoli 6-3 3-6 *1-1 SharapovaThe answer to that question is very well thank you very much! She serves out with an ace to level up the set at one game apiece.

Bartoli 6-3 3-6 1-0* SharapovaImportant hold for Bartoli, who has sent out a message to Sharapova there. What will be the Russian's response?

Bartoli 6-3 3-6 *0-0 SharapovaSET! Sharapova ends up cruising to the second set. She is looking good now as the match heads into a decider. Bartoli will have to match her or this could be over very soon.

Bartoli 6-3 3-5* SharapovaBREAK! This time she gets it! Could spell trouble for Bartoli. Sharapova now serving for the set.

7.16pmSECOND BREAK POINT SHARAPOVA...

7.15pmBut she can only find the net while returning Bartoli's serve. Deuce.

7.14pmBREAK POINT SHARAPOVA...

Bartoli 6-3 *3-4 SharapovaStunning game from Sharapova. I'd go as far as saying it was her best of the match. She had Bartoli scampering all over the court.

7.07pmSET! Wow! Blink and you'll miss it. Tipsarevic wastes no time in taking the opening set against Kohlschreiber 6-3.

7.06pmUNDERWAY! Tipsarevic and Kohlschreiber resume their match. The latter is currently trailing 5-2.

Bartoli 6-3 3-3* SharapovaA really important hold for Bartoli there. She battles back from 30-40 down to win the game. If either player can claim a break now, it could be decisive in this set.

Bartoli 6-3 *2-3 SharapovaIt seems that these two have now found their service games all of a sudden! Sharapova produces a ruthless few points to go 3-2 in front.

6.55pmSET! It's advantage Errani in the battle of the Italians. She's taken the opening set against doubles partner Vinci 6-2.

Bartoli 6-3 2-2* SharapovaBartoli bounces back from her disappointment in the previous game to hold with relative ease. Two each.

Bartoli 6-3 *1-2 SharapovaTalk about doing things the hard way. Sharapova survives four break points in the end before going on to hold. She leads 2-1.

6.45pmAnd the final one ends up in the net on Bartoli's side. She's blown three break points. Deuce.

6.44pmFantastic serve and forehand routine from Sharapova leaves Bartoli no chance. One left...

6.44pmShe hits long! One down, two to go...

6.43pmTHREE BREAK POINTS BARTOLI...

Bartoli 6-3 1-1* SharapovaBREAK! Double faults galore from Bartoli sees Sharapova level up the second set. Both of these players appear to have service games that can self-implode at any minute!

6.40pmTHREE BREAK POINTS SHARAPOVA...

Bartoli 6-3 *1-0 SharapovaBREAK! Well I wasn't expecting that I have to say! Sharapova starts sluggishly again, allowing Bartoli to go an early break up.

Bartoli 6-3 0-0* SharapovaSET! Sharapova hits into the net and as a result Bartoli now holds a one-set lead! Can the Frenchwomen pull off a shock now?

6.31pmTWO SET POINTS BARTOLI...

Bartoli *5-3 SharapovaSharapova saves set point to reduce the arrears to 5-3. Massive game coming up for Bartoli now. Can she handle the pressure?

6.24pmUNDERWAY The battle of the Italians between Vinci and Errani is underway...

Bartoli 5-2* SharapovaPerfect response from Bartoli, who is now just one game away from taking her first ever set of Sharapova.

Bartoli *4-2 SharapovaAnd she backs that up with a hold. Bartoli to serve now for a 5-2 lead.

Bartoli 4-1* SharapovaBREAK! The best possible start for Sharapova. A double fault by Bartoli allows the Russian to get her first score on the board.

6.08pmUNDERWAY! Bartoli gets the match off and running again...

6.04pmJust to remind you, Bartoli is currently 4-0 up in the opening set. However, she is 15-40 down on her serve. Play due to start in a couple of minutes.

6.01pmHere come Sharapova and Bartoli again...Third time lucky hopefully!

5.59pmWEATHER UPDATE! The rain has stopped and the sun is shining! Even better, the courts have been dried and play is expected shortly. Great work from everyone involved!

5.52pmEven more positive tweets: "Grounds-crew have seen their shadow! Sun is shining on #ashe." Still trying not to get too carried away!

5.50pmTwitter message from the US Open: "Ride-on machines have exited #ashe. Air blowers are on!" After the last time, I'm struggling to get excited!

5.45pmFor what it's worth (not alot I imagine) I'm backing Federer and Williams to claim the singles titles.

5.44pmThe rest of the field: Bartoli - 25/1, Errani - 33/1, Ivanovic - 50/1, Vinci - 50/1.

5.43pmAs for the women, three-time champion Serena Williams is ranked as the 2/5 favourite. She is followed by Victoria Azarenka at 7/2, while Maria Sharapova rounds off the top three at 9/1.

5.40pmA cheeky pound on Kohlschreiber anyone?!

5.39pmThe rest of the field are rated as: Del Potro - 14/1, Ferrer - 25/1, Berdych - 40/1, Roddick - 66/1, Wawrinka - 100/1, Tipsarevic - 100/1, Cilic - 100-1 and Kohlschreiber - 250/1.

5.36pmIn the men's draw, defending champion Novak Djokovic is currently the favourite at 11/10. He is followed by world number one Roger Federer, who is rated as a 12/5 chance. Then comes Andy Murray at 10/3.

5.35pmRight, to pass some time, let's take a look at some of the odds to win the US Open outright...

5.30pmWEATHER UPDATE! It's still raining I'm afraid. However, blue sky does appear to be heading in the direction of Flushing Meadows. Still around an hour away from play though I'd say.

5.21pmAwaiting an update from the organisers. They are being pretty quiet at the moment. That may be because this rain has forced them to play around with the schedule like they were forced to do yesterday.

5.12pmSky Sports are obviously not holding out much hope of play at the moment. They are now screening an encounter between American legend Pete Samprass and Andre Agassi.

5.10pmThat was not "sprinkles" by the way! It was full on rain! Reports claim this could happen for the most of the evening unfortunately.

5.08pmUS Open on Twitter: "HERE COMES THE RAIN AGAIN: Sprinkles have forced #Sharapova and #Bartoli inside."

5.05pmWEATHER UPDATE: For crying out loud! There they were warming up and the rain falls once again! The players exit the court and no play will happen any time soon!

5.02pmShe may be 4-0 up, but Bartoli has never taken a set off Sharapova before. It will be interesting to see how this one starts. I'm expecting Shara to have improved dramatically after yesterday's brief display.

5.01pmSharapova and Bartoli are now going through their warm-ups on the Arthur Ashe Stadium...

4.59pmSo, as mentioned earlier, we'll be keeping a close eye on Sharapova vs. Bartoli. The Italian duo of Vinci and Errani are also due on at the same time and will be keeping you updated on that one.

4.50pmHurrah! An update has just informed us that the players are expected on court in ten minutes time! It's looking brighter in New York at the moment. Let's hope it stays that way.

4.46pmAnd a little bit more: "Air blowers are working their windy magic on #ashe." Is that a good sign? Let's hope so!

4.43pmTwitter message from the US Open's official site again: "Play is currently suspended. Once the rain ends we will dry the courts & play will resume."

4.41pmOh dear, here it comes! A 1984 encounter involving Jimmy Connors and John McEnroe. Best get comfy.

4.36pmI'm dreading the moment that our live feed decides to screen a replay from earlier in the tournament or beyond. When that happens, no play is expected any time soon.

4.31pmIf and when play does get underway, we'll be focusing on Sharapova versus Bartoli initially. It's currently 4-0 to Bartoli in the opening set.

4.26pmA Twitter post from the official US Open site: "The courts were dry...they are wet again... #usopen." Try covering them?!

4.24pmThe main reason, so we are told, is because the covers are "unsightly". This is the US Open, not the Milan catwalk!

4.23pmI may have moaned about this at length yesterday, but why on earth do they not cover the courts at Flushing Meadows? It takes longer for play to resume, while for my money it seems to make the surface more dangerous for the players.

4.19pmTwo men that are currently braving the rain are the Serbian duo of Novak Djokovic and Janko Tipsarevic on the practice courts. Both have round four matches pencilled in for tonight.

4.17pmWEATHER ALERT! Unfortunately, it's raining! Quite heavily to be honest. Add to that a bit of thunder and any chance of play any time soon is looking slim.

4.15pmThe night will conclude with Serena Williams vs. Ana Ivanovic, before world number Roger Federer takes on Tomas Berdych.

4.12pmThen it's all about the men for a while. The last eight meetings of Andy Roddick vs. Juan Martin Del Potro, Stanilas Wawrinka vs. Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray vs. Marin Cilic should take us through to around midnight (weather permitting).

4.11pmThe women's quarter-finals will be up first. Maria Sharapova currently trails Marion Bartoli 4-0 in the opening set, while the Italian duo of Sara Errani and Roberta Vinci are yet to start.

4.09pmThe dreaded wet stuff caused havoc at Flushing Meadows yesterday and as a result only two matches were completed. Consequently, we have an extended order of play for today.

4.05pmAfternoon all! Right, keep everything crossed for limited rain today because at the moment it's not looking to positive I'm afraid.
ID:43891: cacheID:43891:1false2false3false:QQ:: from db desktop :LenBod:restore:84500:
Restore Data
Share this article now:
Andy Murray
Read Next:
US Open order of play - day 10
>
rhs 2.0
Today's games header


Sports Mole provides in-depth previews and predictions for every match from the biggest leagues and competitions in world football.
Argentina's Lionel Messi kisses the World Cup trophy after collecting the Golden Ball award on December 18, 2022Sign up for our FREE daily preview newsletter direct to your inbox!