A Positive Note From Nicolas Kiefer

28.08.2009: ... What can be learned from a U.S. soldier New York is always an experience. I love this city, the ever-growing and in which there are always exploring new things. I have again moved into a hotel in midtown Manhattan, because I love the action.

For a week I have been here. At first I was turned off and I relaxed, went shopping, drinking coffee, exploring the city. Then I am taken off. With changing training partners I have specifically worked on fitness and tennis. Over two days, Marian Cilic was my training partner, who is coached by my former coach Bob Brett. We understand we are still very good, and he could give me many good tips. I then stood with Lleyton Hewitt, Roger Federer, David Ferrer in the square.

Of course it was something special with Roger. We have trained very early in the morning, which is very dear to me anyway, because it is still not as warm and humid. Roger is even awakened early now, as a young family man with his baby. This certainly means a very nice conversion. Nevertheless, he is my favorite tournament.

My first U.S. Open opponent is Michael Llodra. The balance is positive, but that does not interest me. We start at 0-0. Although this is a stupid cliche, it is true. We both stand in the rankings not particularly good.

Ah, yes, even a little anecdote from my flight from Chicago to New York. Because of inclement weather, we were late and were put off repeatedly. Many are excited about it or insane. A soldier sat beside me, who took the 24-month deployment in Afghanistan after his 22-day leave before he returns to the front. He took the delay perfectly calm although it took him urgently to his family. From such people, we should learn.

Nicolas Kiefer will play Michael Llodra today in an evil first-round matchup. He is currently 2-0 over the Frenchman. They have both battled injuries this year, but I suspect Llodra maybe in better shape this week. It should be a good match today. Too bad it is so early in the tournament.

(Translated by Google from Nicolas Kiefer; image: Denise/tennisfiend)