Eat Beat

That's Amarone

Racket science revs up Rafa's repertoire

Rafael Nadal's new high-tech tennis racket looks and feels like his old one. Except for the on-off switch.

Tour no place for the timid

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, who have won 31 Grand Slams between them, agree there is no room for shyness on the court if you want to make it big on the pro tennis tour.

Li's post-retirement life all about becoming a mom and housewife

In what she describes as her "new life," Li Na is dealing with morning sickness, hoping for a baby girl and realizing her dream of becoming a housewife.

Tidbits

McHale's recovery: Christina McHale has survived her fair share of endurance-testing matches at the Grand Slams. Few have been as dramatic, though, as her first-round win on Monday when she vomited on court at 4-all in the third set and saved a match point before outlasting France's Stephanie Foretz 6-4, 1-6, 12-10. The final set took nearly two hours to complete.

Smith savors his relaunch with Rockets

Josh Smith has been a nice addition to the contending Houston Rockets and simply ignores those who credit Detroit's recent success to his release.

Nationals are Max-ing out the cash

Sure seems as if Max Scherzer and his wife now will be able to afford to buy themselves at least one of those nonstick baking sheets they were hoping to receive as a wedding gift.

Digest

Soccer

Score board

Super six-pack for Pats' duo

Brady and Belichick mastermind another shot at championship

Circus plays against Packers save Seahawks

The last time Seattle punter Jon Ryan recalled throwing a pass that led to points, he was tossing a 2-point conversion for the University of Regina up in Canada.

Shy Sharapova has an artsy side

Despite being the highest paid female athlete on the planet and one of the most recognizable faces in pro tennis, Maria Sharapova insists she is shy and doesn't need expensive things to make her happy.