Does Federer have same confidence?

Roger Federer's game looks about the same as usual. New coach Jose Higueras hasn't made wholesale changes. And with reason. Why fix something that obviously is far from broken?

The only thing different is that Federer appears to be taking more gambles by going for more on his shots. Whether that results in a more aggressive net game is the question.

But there was a noticeable difference in Federer's court attitude in his straight-set win over Sam Querrey in the first round of the French Open. Federer appeared to be more serious than usual and not having as much fun as even last year.

Perhaps the increased number of losses in the wake of his bout with mononucleosis has had an impact on his confidence. It still might be a couple of matches before Federer gives a true reading on where his game stands.

Querrey's potential

Querrey will never be an Andy Roddick or a perennial threat in Grand Slam tournaments. Probably not even a James Blake.

But don't be surprised if this tall young American teenager happens to make a couple of splashes along the way. Although slightly one-dimensional, Querrey has potential. He continues to improve.

Maybe another Todd Martin? That's possible.

Querrey obviously is working on his game. He has the serve and the big forehand, and he moves forward quite well for a 6-6 player.

New Venus look?

Is it just my imagination or is the normally extra lean Venus Williams really a little heavier than in the past? She just doesn't look as thin as I remember her.

I almost had to do a double take the first time I saw Venus in this year's French Open. I could have mistaken her for her sister, Serena, although on second glance Venus obviously lacked Serena's upper-body strength.

Could it be that Venus has been building up her body the last couple of months in hopes of getting stronger? Or is it just a new hairdo? Or the different attire from the short shorts she wore much of last summer?

Remember Justine Henin a few years back when she returned from an extended illness bulked up and hitting the ball with increased intensity and power? Justine eventually returned to her slight body size, but kept the extra power while taking her game to a new level.

With Serena suddenly experiencing the type of success of years past as a result of her enormous upper body strength, perhaps Venus is testing a new formula. More power? That might not be a bad idea for Venus if she maintains her consistency and movement.

Of course, Venus hasn't been seen much in the almost two months since she pulled out of the Family Circle Cup with a medical issue.

It might be worth keeping an eye on Venus, especially when she runs into other top players.

Heinz shines

Austin Heinz has played boys' 14 all year in national level tournaments, but dropped back to 12-and-under for this past weekend's Peach State Junior Classic, a national Level 3 event in Norcross, Ga., where he advanced to the semifinals. The Palmetto Christian Academy sixth-grader then took third place when his opponent became ill.

Reach James Beck at jdbeck@postandcourier.com or (843) 937-5540