WIMBLEDON DONE

Another Wimbledon behind us and it was spectacular. It was described by John McEnroe as the greatest match he has witnessed in his tennis career. It ended at 9:18 at night after over 6 hours of play with two rain delays. The incredible serves, chip shots, slices, overheads each one more dramatic than the last. The passing shots that you thought would never pass. Roger Federer wanting his 6th win at Wimbledon, the only player in this century to do so. Rafael Nadal wanting his first win after narrowly losing last year to Federer. Each could taste it several times at match point and yet only one would win. The win was bittersweet for any tennis lover. You want Federer to get his 6th win in a row but Rafael just missed it last year and you secretly root for the underdog. The athleticism beyond the reach of even the most elite athletes. The mental ability to keep your head in and your racquet swinging after 4,5 and 6 hours of play must be so hard to achieve. The serves stayed well beyond the 100mph mark up until the last point of the game. Both players moved and hit like it was the first point each time. I have such a limited amount of experience with only 2.5 years of play under my skirt ;) but having played a 3 hour and 20 minute match and trying to keep my head in, can't even begin to understand how such an athlete can accomplish what each player achieved today. Rafael falling to the ground in almost darkness then running to meet Roger at the net for the obligatory hand shake was understandably trying to fight back tears. He climbed up stadium to his family to get their congratulations and then over to the Royal Box to shake the hand of Spanish Royalty. Meanwhile, Roger donning his white pants and formal looking, gold trimmed, cardigan sitting at the side lines with his head in his hands tugged at every heartstring as well. Both men were incredibly gracious as they each accepted their trophy and gave their interviews. Each gave wonderful accolades to their opponent and each should be so proud. They showed us all what it takes to compete at such a level. The one thing you feel as the airing ends, is how they both have walked away with such grace and elegance. We know we will see them meet again, with the same voracious desire to win. I would like to take that same desire and apply it to my life. Winning, after such a long battle, is so sweet.