Rodney Marshall, a Strength and Conditioning Coach for USTA Player Development, is currently in Europe traveling and training with American star Jack Sock as he prepares for the upcoming French Open. Marshall is now in Rome with several U.S. players competing at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia. In his latest blog, he writes about the success of Americans on the court and how he is enjoying one of his favorite cities off the court.
By Rodney Marshall
Ciao, Roma!
The European red clay adventures continue with the third stop of the trip... Roma. This is one of the great cities in the world, and we kicked off the stop with an all-American dinner, sponsored by David Brewer, the tournament director of the US Open. It was amazing fellowship getting everyone together, and on behalf of players and coaches, "Grazie, David!"
It's been a fine showing thus far, as we have four Americans – Venus Williams, Jack Sock, Sam Querrey and John Isner (pictured above) – still alive in singles, and the Bryans, Sock/Isner and Rajeev Ram still fighting in doubles. But the road only gets tougher as we keep advancing. For example, Jack will have his hands full tonight against the "King of Clay," Rafa (Nadal), at the Foro Italico.
There's not been much time for sightseeing in Roma, but I did catch a couple of the sites and also shared some carbonara with Stepheno Amritraj.
Let's hope for a clean American sweep, followed by celebratory carbonara and gelato. Well, maybe not for the players, but I will feast on their behalf!
Ciao!