Taking the game to a different level
With Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer set to meet in the U.S. Open 2015 finals, it's time for me to finally shed the 'hatred' and start appreciating the unbound talent and capabilities these phenomenal Champions bring. For a long while, I had always wanted Roger not to win another major just because I wished Rafael Nadal wins his 18th title and stands atop. It does seem unlikely though that Rafa will win another (I dare not rule out the Spaniard from proving me wrong). That not being the only reason and more out of sheer respect, I wholeheartedly stand up and admire the remarkable rejuvenation of the best tennis player the world has seen, Roger Federer. Experts wrote him off long back even before he crossed the age of 30. The maestro just refused to believe he is done. He kept coming back year after year, slam after slam, continued fighting and here he is, as many have come to accept, is at the absolute top of his game.
It's really hard to hate someone like Novak Djokovic but I found reasons to do that as well, due to the painful defeats he has inflicted on Rafa. The tenacious Serb has been representing more than himself for so many years. He has been the sporting icon for a war trodden country. Beyond all that, he has simply smiled his way to roaring success, which is not seen often in this era. He is almost the only one who applauds opponents at the end of painstakingly long rallies. He does break rackets on the odd occasion but those moments can be nicely overlooked for the adorable sportsman he is. For the way Djokovic has dominated the Men's circuit in the last few years, he deserves all the accolades.
When these two relentless champions lock horns for the title decider, though I had wanted them to lose miserably at different points in time in the past, it simply doesn't look right at the moment. Tennis couldn't have got any luckier having been blessed with players of this style, substance, caliber and character. I do wish Roger wins - that can at least give my beloved brother some sleep and lots of joy!
Champions are to be celebrated after all!
Nice write up... I am in agreement with all that you have mentioned about Djoker.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, RF goes up first yet again to collect his tophy.