International debut of the world’s most vibrant tennis court on Monday

Last year Kei Nishikori grabbed the headlines by becoming the first Japanese player to win at Delray Beach in almost 16 years.

But this year Kei will not be back to Delray Beach to defend his title as he'll be heading back to Japan to join his teammates for Davis Cup match against China.

Nevermind that Kei is not here because there's another reason why you should keep an eye on this tennis event.

From next Monday onwards, the world will be introduced to one of the most unique and visual tennis courts right here at Delray Beach!

Describing the tennis courts, yellowtennisball.com said, "Whales, dolphins, swordfish, waves and bubbles are emblazoned on the east and west sidewalls of center court in a palette full of eye-catching colors."

"Doug Hoekzema, Angel Mir, Brandon Opalka, Raphael Rodriguez and Peter Agardy are the visionaries who together in just two days—starting with only a concept—captured the essence and flavor of the waves and marine life to enhance the murals from the on-court wave scenes that first appeared at the 2008 tournament. "

According to the Executive Director of the International Tennis Championships (ITC), John Butler said, “When the world turns on their television or downloads the tournament on-line they will be shocked by the brilliant display of colors and art creatively found on our court backdrops."

“It is simply amazing, a feast for the eyes - which will in no part take away from the players concentration or block their field of play!”

(Via yellowtennisball.com)

Ana Ivanovic rejects James Blunt's VIP invitation

Looks like Ana just broke someone's heart.

James Blunt's hopes to meet the tennis beauty after his concert in Belgrade next week have been dashed simply because Ana is too busy.

In last week's post, James was said to have asked the organizers of his concert to invite the Serbian sensation to his concert as he is a big fan of her.

"Ana Ivanovic was honoured with the invitation as she listens to James Blunt's music," said her spokesman.

"However, she would not be able to be present in Belgrade on February 23rd (due) to career engagements."

Maybe Ana is only into sportsmen.

Well, James, just forget it and start writing a new hit song... perhaps with the title "You're Beautiful, But Goodbye My Love". :D

(Via Austrian Times)

Gilles Simon survives Grigor Dimitrov scare in Marseille

Gilles Simon almost become the latest victim of the upcoming, cute-looking and abs-flaunting kid.

The Frenchman had to come back from 5-2 down in the last set to beat Grigor Dimitrov who is affectionately known as Grisha 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 in the first round of the Open 13 yesterday.

"From the moment I broke back, I felt much better," Simon said.

"That hurt him physically and mentally, and I won the next games quite easily."

Well, Gilles, I don't think it's going to hurt Grisha in long term though.

Grisha who has just turned pro is certainly making his mark in the ATP tour this year.

Gosh, how I wish Yang Tsung Hua can achieve that too but it's not going to happen if he sticks with his current management. Tsung Hua already missed the opportunity of his lifetime by not taking IMG's offer.

Back to Grisha, I've just digged up a youtube of him showing middle finger to the chair umpire.

Boy, this kid sure have lotsa fire!

He reminds me of the young Roger who smashed his racquet right in front of the umpire.

(Images via downthelinetennis.com, Open 13 website)

Elena Dementieva celebrates 500th career wins

Congrats to Elena for becoming the 27th woman in the Open Era to record 500 career singles victories!

She was presented a huge cake for her achievement after defeated Sybille Bammer in the second round at the Barclays Dubai tourney.

(Images via tennisforum.com)