Intro
1. Learn Vocabulary - Learn some new vocabulary before you start the lesson.
2. Read and Prepare - Read the introduction and prepare to hear the audio.
Without question, Roger Federer is one of the most popular people in the entire history of tennis. This Swiss athlete has broken countless records and gained titles all around the world. With many nicknames like FedEx (short for Federer Express) and Maestro, Federer is not only popular, he’s also very rich. He’s won millions of dollars in prize money.
After winning consecutive championships, Federer’s career has seemed to fall flat lately with less wins. However, his popularity will probably last much longer than his ability to play tennis.
What do Gary and Marni think about Roger Federer? Find out in today’s English lesson about tennis.
Dialog
1. Listen and Read - Listen to the audio and read the dialog at the same time.
2. Study - Read the dialog again to see how the vocab words are used.
Gary: So, I was watching ESPN yesterday.
Marni: Which sport?
Gary: In fact, they were talking about a particular person who plays tennis.
Marni: OK, so I know a few names in tennis.
Gary: Go on.
Marni: Roger Federer.
Gary: Bingo. Done.
Marni: Oh. Wow.
Gary: That’s exactly it. This guy is everywhere. He’s hugely popular. So successful.
Marni: I guess he must be if I’ve heard of him.
Gary: Yeah. He’s won countless titles. He’s broken records. He’s won consecutive Grand Slams.
Marni: But the French Open just happened, and he did not win, correct?
Gary: I saw that as well. Yeah, he didn’t do very well.
Marni: So sometimes even the great ones fall flat.
Gary: Maybe there was something wrong with his racket.
Marni: Oh, you think so?
Gary: I don’t know.
Marni: I think that’s a racket.
Gary: Maybe it was the court.
Marni: Perhaps. Regardless, he’s still a great player.
Gary: He’s a phenomenal player. And he can run so quickly on the court, and his serves are super powerful. I would last about three minutes against Roger Federer on a tennis court.
Marni: More than I would last.
Grammar Point
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Quizzes
Lesson MP3
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Discussion
Gary tells Marni about a program he watched on the sports television channel ESPN. He says it was about a famous tennis player, and Marni guesses Roger Federer.
She’s right. Federer is one of the most famous people in the tennis world because of how successful he is. Gary is definitely impressed by Federer’s records and titles.
Marni mentions that Roger Federer recently lost some games at a popular tennis tournament. Gary is sad that Federer did not do well. However, both Gary and Marni agree that Federer is still an amazing player.
Have you ever watched Roger Federer play tennis? Who’s your favorite athlete?