santoro slices and lobs his way to five sets

The match of the 2007 U.S. Open‘s first week will likely be tonight’s five-set — that’s 6-4, 3-6, 6-2, 4-6, 6-4 — win by hometown hero James Blake over Frenchman Fabrice Santoro.

The Frenchman is nicknamed “The Magician” for his shotmaking abilities; his arsenal of slices, lobs, and angles created by two-handed grips on both wings regularly frustrate his opponents (and have propelled him to Doubles Grand Slam titles on more than a few occasions).

Santoro is also known for his wacky Lacoste outfits — we’re talking almost Vince Spadea-level here. But for some reason it works on Fabrice (perhaps because it goes with his unconventional playing style).

FYI: His candy shirt from tonight’s match has been in his closet for most of this year (I remember seeing it on him as far back as Miami). It’s just a piece from the company’s casual collection (i.e., it’s not a Lacoste Sport polo).

Buy: Lots of folks are asking where they can get this shirt. Most retailers have already removed this from their inventory since it’s an item from a past season. Sadly, I have no other leads right now but I am still waiting to hear back from two people. If you can help us out, write me: tennisCBH AT gmail DOT com. Also, there are other companies who’ve produced similar styles. Artful Dodger, etc. You might be better off shopping that way.