What a classic! I just wonder what keeps champions going even after achieving almost every other thing and getting to a stage where they are a class apart from the crowd. Federer has nothing to prove to anyone in the world arena and to himself as he has won a slam everywhere and prior to this year's Wimbledon he jointly held the record for the most number of slams with big P. But, when one sees his scamper for every single point, it was as if he had never won a match before in life, leave alone a tournament or a grand slam. Such was the level of commitment, concentration and attitude he showed on court.
I wish I could have this commitment and enthusiasm about what I do in life. It is just amazing to note "What on earth keeps him going even after achieving so many feats?"
Due praise to Roddick .. I love the way he plays and he is a champion too. But sadly he is playing tennis in the same era as the great Federer. That is one of the reasons why he has been sidelined. A parallel can be drawn to the likes of Rahul Dravid and say Saurav Ganguly. They are gifted players too and have achieved a lot in the international arena. But, sadly again they happen to play Cricket in the era of the god of cricket - Sachin!
If only it had not been for such greats who dominate their area of specialization, so many other players would have risen to much higher glory!
Another point I wanted to write was about his composure and maturity. Being a sportsman myself, I understand the emotions attached with sports. Every point earned means a lot and I am in awe as to how he conceals his emotions, even when it means so much to him. With the placid reaction on his face throughout the match, he can pass of as a monk.. May be that is what is called as maturity...!
Compare this to the likes of Nadal, where there is loud and strong expression of emotions so many times throughout the match or the extreme case of Marat Safin who has broken a record number of rackets just to let out his emotions. N and M are kids in the block when compared to the great Federer who has been there done that and knows when to celebrate and when not to. I do agree N brings a lot more energy to the court, but to the purists of the game in specific and sports in general it is Federer who rules! Drawing another parallel to cricket, it is like the comparison of T20 to test cricket. The T20 version appeals to all the newbies of cricket for it's flashy nature, energy on the field and the pace at which the game moves. But, the real test for any player is test cricket. Similarly, N appeals to all those who want to see an energy packed match, with sound, emotions and action. But, the real champion is Federer!
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