Rafael Nadal (Nadal) was finally successful in ending Roger Federer’s winning streak at the Wimbledon. The occasion and timing could not have been better for Nadal. Nadal beat Federer in a five set thriller in a match considered the longest single’s men’s final in the history of Wimbledon. An ardent fan of Federer, I wanted to see him retain the crown for the sixth consecutive year more so because it came after the French Open where Nadal tamed him en route his victory. And on Sunday, in a nerve-wracking contest, Nadal had almost taken the match away from the defending champion winning the first two sets comfortably. Federer, however, came back strongly to win the third and fourth sets (both being tie breakers). Just when it appeared Nadal was leading the way in fourth set’s tie breaker, Federer, the champion of champions, turned it around with his favourite strong backhand return to take the match further. The final set was only going to be amazing and equally challenging. And any tennis lover would be overwhelmed watching the quality of play displayed by these two great contenders. Nadal was at his exceptional best in the final set and almost broke Federer’s serve in a couple of games. Federer, on the other hand, made a few unforced errors only to help Nadal break his serve in the 15th game. Even as Federer was trying to save the next game Nadal finished off the match in style.

The moments of this contest between Federer and Nadal will be cherished for years. This grand finale should go into the tennis books as the greatest final ever played. Nadal’s grit and determination were impeccable. His was a relentless pursuit to dethrone Federer. Federer was not at his best, I believe, but made it tough for Nadal who played the match of his life. Federer’s sight was as sharp as an eagle. His strong backhand returns and the ease with which he produced aces at the right time once again showed why he is revered as one of the greatest players of the game. If Pete Sampras had showed how to win consistently, Federer took that standard of consistency to a higher level. Winning a grandslam five times in a row is no small feat. No doubt Nadal is an aggressive player and he deserved to win the trophy but it remains to be seen if he can display his clay court supremacy on the grass consistently. But for now, Nadal is the champion.

Congratulations Nadal. You’ve won a great contest against the master of class and quality.

Image Courtesy: New York Times