Monfils, a French Open semifinalist in 2008, is France's most accomplished player on clay, but clay is the big-hitting Tsonga's weakest surface.
Although Connors defeated Borg the year before to win the Open, and Evert was arguably the greatest women's clay-court player ever, clay was generally a difficult surface for Americans, especially the men.
"After losing so many times against the best player on clay ever, to beat him on clay is the maximum," said an emotional Verdasco.
Only in the second half of the show did the band's members loosen up onstage, even showing a bit of zeal, especially the guitar player Clay Cook and the bassist John Driscoll Hopkins.
The player, Clay Rush, was a kicker for the Colorado Crush of the A.F.L. in 2008 when he sustained a series of hits to the head over several games — hits that were mishandled by a team physician, Dr. Saurabh Mangalik, the complaint says.
"I lost against the best player on clay," Coria said.
Kuerten confirmed his status as the world's top player on clay.
"Sam is a great player on clay, which is probably her best surface.
He's not Nadal, but he is still a great player on clay.
Federer has been No. 1 since February 2004, but Nadal is the top player on clay, a slower surface.
He has won 92 of his past 93 matches on clay .To lose always hurts, but when you know you lost to the best player on clay and one of your closest friends, it is a little easier," López said.
