The American leg of prime tennis just kicked off with Indian Wells 2016 - BNP Paribas Open. Pre-tournament, there was Maria Sharapova’s huge - and disappointing - announcement. Second day, likely the most popular match thus far, the doubles match between the Spaniards, Rafael Nadal/Fernando Verdasco and the Americans, Bryan brothers. As I wait for more action, I am feeling a bit nostalgic, reminiscing past moments on American turf.

Season 2013 was all about the amazing comeback of Nadal, well recorded in the annals of tennis history. So I will refrain from rehashing that storyline. Instead, capture a lesser known storyline.

US Open 2011. The year of Novak Djokovic, until 2015 came along! The second week of the tournament turned out to be a goldmine of poor sportsmanship — Andy Roddick, Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams have been rather generous in this regard.

I felt for Roddick during his match with Nadal with the (almost mournful) somber mood of the spectators. Post-game, I once again empathized when he stated that being booed would have been better than the deafening silence. However, there was not so much as a kind word for his superior opponent. And I was duly disappointed. Why does it come naturally for some and not so much for others?

Granted, grace does come easy for winners. Which likely explains the Stefan Edberg Sportsmanship awards for Federer in his heyday, and his derisive comments on Djokovic after his loss. I mean, Djokovic had a remarkably consistent year out of sheer luck and neither skill nor hardwork?! Preposterous. Professional players habitually take risks; it is essential, and even necessary, to best one’s opponent. Federer should know better as he had his fair share of spectacular yet risky winners which could have landed on either side of the line. So for him to make those remarks was truly unkind.

Which brings me to Djokovic. That’s right, I am not letting off anyone easy :) The world noticed how he ran out of steam against Nadal in the third set! He was tired, gasping for breath, and struggling to move and reach as he did earlier in the match. And took a very timely medical break!! The WTA needs to reconsider such rules that can be conveniently exploited. He got the much needed recovery time and shortly after resumed in top form. Unfair to Nadal. Yet, check out how he handled the press inquiry — Nadal Finals Interview on Day 15 at usopen.org. Exemplary sportsmanship! Generosity of Spirit!!

Now for the Coup de grace, the younger Williams. Serena’s utter irreverence, disrespectful outburst(s) were well captured. What I find appalling is how Brian Earley and team judged it. Barring a handful of folks, notably Mary Carillo and Chris Evert, there has been no uproar against their judgment. This, I believe, undermines the genteel sport of tennis. And also brings into focus a number of sensitive topics that folks would rather avoid — gender, race, star capital..