We Have A New Favorite Tennis Player: Jack Sock

This morning, Harvey Araton of The New York Times introduced the world to a U.S. Open qualifier named Jack Sock. Here's a passage that apparently posed no problem for any copy editors:

But as Sock had the previous year also won the junior boys title in Flushing Meadows and, with legend holding that he had never lost a high school match, it was natural — at least hopeful — to think he might have a healthy share of winning genes to go with his booming serve.

And his name, for goodness sakes, is Jack Sock; of Lincoln, Neb., a proud Cornhusker. Does it get any more wholesome and hearty for a country in a continuous search for its next men's star in this athletically enhanced smash-mouth era?

Wholesome! Hearty! Harvey, stay just the way you are. Some people might like to tell you that the name "Jack Sock" doesn't conjure up anything wholesome at all, but those people are just immature. Don't even bother googling it, I'm sure nothing will come up that would change your mind.

One or two more performances like this and we can expect a slew of word play headlines, beginning with Sock and Awe.

Sure, "Sock and Awe," that's a start. Also:

Jack Sock Stiffens Up Late

Jack Sock Breaks Down From Overuse

Jack Sock All Over Semis

Holes In Jack Sock Expose Staff

Jack Sock Helps Team Avoid Mess

Jack Sock Hastily Thrown Under The Bed Before Mom Walks In

Hm, that last one sort of got away from us. Still: Jack Sock! We hope he wins handily.

One Match Down In Rise To Stardom [NYT]