But I am very attracted to Federer as an athlete. He plays so fluidly it's like he's not trying that hard. Yet he has accomplished, after today's win at French Open, the highest honor of a tennis player. He equals Sampras' most Grand Slam titles of all time. He should, quite worthily and certainly, surpass that in the near future. His swings are so complete and effortless. They almost seem godly.
On a rare occasion I watched 2008 Wimbledon final between Federer and Nadal live on NHK. It may have gone down as the greatest ever tennis match ever (deserving of 2 evers). It started at 11pm Japan time and went on forever until 5:00 in the morning. The result went to Nadal, but that match has never ended.
I respect Nadal as a hustle tennis wizard with sheer force. The problem is that it ends there too. Besides his prowess, Nadal can be so uncomfortable in his own skin, scratching his private, moaning like he is having sex, in the shower, with a hippo. As soon as a match is over though he goes back to being a pro. He is and will continue to be an undeniable force for years to come. The fact that he's only 23 is ridiculous!
It begs the question, "How can the best rivalry in tennis history, having accomplished so much against each other, be this different in grace in their playing style?"
John McEnroe interviews Federer after his 14th Grand Slam win
The only thing that would make this sweeter for Federer? Beating Nadal while getting there. At least that means he still got hurdles to clear. For now, G.O.A.T., take a bow.
If you, tennis fan or otherwise, are not watching these two play one and other, you're seriously missing out.
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