NADAL BRINGS FEDERER TO TEARS

This is the first thing I read this morning on Yahoo:
Rafael Nadal held off Roger Federer in another momentum-swinging, five-set final to win the Australian Open on Sunday, keeping the Grand Slam singles record safe for now. After coming through the longest match in the tournament’s history to reach the championship match, Nadal needed 4 hours, 23 minutes Sunday to win 7-5, 3-6, 7-6 (3), 3-6, 6-2. Federer, who was trying to equal Pete Sampras’ 14 major titles, has lost to Nadal the last three times they’ve met in Grand Slam finals. The 27-year-old Swiss star couldn’t hold back tears at the presentation.

“Maybe I’ll try later. God, it’s killing me,” Federer said, sobbing. He returned to congratulate Nadal within minutes, saying: “You deserved it. You played a fantastic final.” Nadal collected the trophy and put his arm around Federer. “Roger, sorry for today. I really know how you feel right now,” Nadal said. “Remember, you’re a great champion, you’re one of the best in history.” He accepted the cup from Rod Laver, who was in Australia to mark the start of the 40th anniversary of the last Grand Slam season. “To receive this trophy from Rod Laver is a dream for me,” Nadal said. Federer, so dominant when he won three of the four majors in 2006 and 2007, has now lost finals on three different surfaces to Nadal. (Yahoo Sports)

First of all, I am going to relish this moment and say I told ya so. Federer- you can NOT beat Rafa if you don’t practice. Federer- you can NOT be one of the greatest if you don’t practice. Federer- you can NOT claim a title if you don’t practice. It’s really as simple as that. How many times have I ripped the Swiss Mister a new one because he’s out frolicking ala Hollywood-style cruising along on his fame while his Girlfriend manages his career? Historically, it’s a recipe for disaster. “Maybe I’ll try later. God, it’s killing me,” Federer said, sobbing. Maybe you’ll try later? Try what? To practice? Did you really think Rod Laver was gonna hand you the Sampras equalizing trophy just because you showed up? You gotta win first! Props to you though for recognizing that Rafael ‘deserved it’ and ‘played a fantastic final’. Hard to believe a compliment slipped passed those lips. Perhaps when we are at our lowest it’s easier to recognize the greatness in others?

The greatness that is Rafael Nadal never ceases to amaze me. From his grunts to his capri’s, the kid is a tennis machine. We are witnessing one of the most remarkable tennis careers to hit the courts, while at the same time witnessing the downfall of another. Sure, R-Fed could theoretically pull himself up by the boot-strings, hire a great agent and trainer, leave Mirka at home and focus on winning instead of jetting off to chill with other Gillette men who have also mysteriously lost career-traction…but would that even be enough? Doubt it. Nadal has remained focused…unshakable…determined…humble…and hot. He basically picks up where Federer leaves off.

And before I forget…Congratulations my precious Tapa! You want make me to be happy, no? Thank you Rafa for making this day about something more than the SuperBowl. Vamos for life you sexy little beast, Va-mos.

As always, thanks for reading. Delinda@athlebrities.com