Update: Sam Stosur last night went through to the French Open final. She could become the first Australian female Grand Slam winner in three decades after her dominating straight sets win over Jelana Jankovic. So all aboard people.
OK folks, there’s a seat for everyone in Australia. All you need is your remote, some jingoism and a beer hat. And make it snappy, because the Socceroos bandwagon is also leaving from the next platform in a matter of days.
I caught the end of the second set last night. Samantha Stosur had won the first 6-2 but lost the second to Serena Williams in a tie-break. At that point Williams was in total control so I called it a night, just as this guy suggested some might do. Too bad, as I would have had some wriggle room for indignation this morning wondering where everybody was when she needed our support from the start of the French Open.
But here we are. Stosur beat the world No.1. Tennis cliches and unimaginative chants at the ready, please. You cannot be serious. Onto that powerful forehand. She needs to dig deep. It was on the line, surely. Sam-an-tha, clap-clap-clap. Sam-an-tha, clap-clap-clap.
We can’t forget the French Open terminology refreshers. Egalite. Avantage. Jeu, Madamoiselle Stosur. Quelle shot. Ooh la la.
Today I’m wiping some flecks of egg off my face after writing recently Australia was doing extremely well in a range of niche sports like pole-vaulting and snooker, but for a nation of sporting fanatics the country’s traditional power in some major sports like cricket, rugby union and swimming had faded. And yes, I said it about the tennis too. (Some kind readers were, ahem, disappointed there was no inclusion of cyclists in the list of sports where Australia was on the rise.)
Let’s not get carried away just yet. Sam’s only in the semi-final and needs to beat Jelena Jankovic for a shot at the title.
There is much to be said for bandwagons. They allow us to get into the spirit of a critical game and share great achievements without having to endure years of following a team or an athlete as they trudge through a wilderness of heartbreaking losses and non-results. (Believe me, I’m an Irish rugby fan, and often wonder whether it’s worth it.)
As for the die-hards who whinge and moan when the rest of us jump on board, as far as I’m concerned you can arrange alternative transport.
Samantha Stosur, Australia’s behind you.
Now what sound would a bandwagon make as it gets underway? Ding-ding?
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