Go for the 15th, Rafa

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Let's get this right - With Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal having to deal with a couple of grueling five-setters and both returning from long injury lay-offs, they might not be able to serve the classic the world is looking for. However, the very fact that these two are here in the finals competing for the big prize is a massive victory for the sport and the spirit of the game. 

These two have played out some of the monstrous games anyone can imagine. Having been a fan of Rafa for 11 years, Wimbledon 2008 and Australian Open 2009 comes from the top of my mind. They were absolute humdingers, where neither were prepared to give an inch to the opponent - Rafael Nadal prevailed, but only just. With Nadal being totally dominant on Roger on clay, the Swiss had his fair share of success on Grass, beating the Spaniard twice in Wimbledon finals. My brother [a Federer worshiper] says the head to head grand slam record could have been better in Federer's favor, had they faced more often in the US Open. Rafa for some reason [skill level, fatigue] hasn't really gone far in New York that often, to have played Federer frequently.
All these happened when they were on top of the world with very little competition around. They were in their twenties and were left with lot of time ahead. The situation is completely different now. Roger Federer is 35 and has not won a major for close to 5 years. Rafael Nadal, though five years younger will surely wouldn't be able to play till 35 due to the nature of this game. His last major was little more recent but close to three years ago. Djokovic, Murray and a lot of upcoming youngsters will only make it tougher for these two. Therefore, the time available for these greats to add to their Grand Slam tallies is limited. That's why Sunday's game will be one of the most important in their careers, if not the most important. 

Having said all these, we cannot rule out Rafa from playing in the French Open finals and Roger in the Wimbledon finals. They have been called a spent force on multiple occasions in the past. Here they are in the finals, proving everyone wrong. Long shall these careers go on! 

Regardless of who wins or loses on Sunday, the biggest beneficiary has been the sport itself, as stated earlier. These two exceptional icons have been great ambassadors both on and off the court. Let's hope they keep playing and let's enjoy their game as long as they do!

 For the moment, Vamos Rafa!

 From the past:
http://babusrt.blogspot.in/2010/06/when-going-gets-tough-tough-gets-even.html
http://babusrt.blogspot.in/2011/06/is-roger-federer-greatest-ever-not-in.html
http://babusrt.blogspot.in/2011/11/frustrating-year.html

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