TENNIS MASTERS SERIES - ROMA

May 9, 2002

James Blake

JAMES BLAKE: Well, I'm starting to get used to it, I guess - this is my third one in a row. I just had a slow start. And he was playing really well, serving great in the first set. I never got a chance to break him. And then after that first set I really wanted to just try to play my game instead of adjusting to his game. And I started going for my shots a lot more and putting pressure on him. If he could come up with the shots, then I just say, "Too good." Nothing I could do. But, luckily, my shots were good enough to win that second set. Then got a little more confidence and felt really good in that third set. Felt like I could try and control the points.

JAMES BLAKE: I'm feeling better every match, getting more and more comfortable. And today, playing against just a definite clay courter, I knew it was going to be a tough match. I've had three really tough matches. So I think the only thing it can do is make me better.

JAMES BLAKE: We're trying to show the French that we can play on this stuff since we're coming up to playing them in Davis Cup. Want to put a little pressure on them (smiling). We're just -- actually, I have no idea how we're still in it. We're not known for playing good on clay, but I guess we're learning and we're having some fun over here. And hopefully we can all continue the success this week and into the French Open.

JAMES BLAKE: Yeah, I thought I had it. He hit a dropshot to get me in, I think, then threw up the lob. I saw him coming in as I looked over, I figured that was the perfect time to get a lob over him. I actually like hitting that shot - it's fun. And a lot of times guys close way too tight on that, once they see the ball go over your head. I had him - thought I had him. Then I just barely missed it. I thought I hit it perfect . Guess not. Oh, well. Next time I'll make it hopefully...

JAMES BLAKE: Yeah. I've actually hit with both of them this week. Andre has helped me a lot of times with scouting reports, as has Andy. You know, I would try to help them, but they've both got a little more experience than me. And we've been having a good time. And I hit with Andy right off the plane. We actually were on the same flight over here. Right away, we were hitting together. And warming up with Andre a couple times, he's been very helpful. And hopefully we're doing this together, and hopefully we'll continue.