RoastedLinuxKing Rafa has Federer on his knees
February 2nd 2009 00:41
It was the final that everyone wanted at the Australian Open and it was a moment that was not to be missed.
Rafael Nadal, the world no.1 who took the mantle away from Roger Federer, was looking for his first Grand Slam title on a hard-court.
Federer, the world no.2, was looking for his fourth Australian Open crown, but moreover, he was looking to equal Pete Sampras' record of 14 Grand Slam championships.
But as is the case with finals, only one of the above objectives can be fulfilled.
After a tight first three sets in which both players had one set each, the fourth proved to be the best of the match in terms of quality.
The fourth set showcased why both Nadal and Federer are ruling the Tennis world the way they are, with explicit shot making from all corners of the court.
Federer started the better, taking a 2-0 lead in the fourth.
But Nadal broke back almost immediately to put pressure on the Swiss player.
But when pressure arises, so do champions, and it was here that Federer reigned supreme, breaking the Spaniard’s serve again to hold a 5-2 advantage.
Although Nadal held his serve for 5-3, Federer did likewise in the next game to seal the fourth set and send the game into an expected fifth set decider.
After a five hour marathon win over compatriot Fernando Verdasco, many thought Nadal would run out of a puff against an opponent often considered the greatest ever.
Many thought wrong.
Nadal showcased why he is without doubt the Gladiator of all Grand Slams with his never say die attitude choking Federer into unforced errors.
It ultimately cost the Swiss dearly as Nadal broke his serve and raced to a 4-1 lead in the fifth.
It was then and there, that the illusion of a fourteenth Grand Slam title was disappearing for Federer, and with it, his game was also being cast into twilight.
As a true world no.1 should, Nadal showed no mercy against a disheartened Federer and broke again to seal his sixth Grand Slam title and deny the Swiss a remarkable sporting record.
Federer was emotional at the presentation ceremony, knowing full well his record against Nadal in finals is an obstruction that will not be easily overcome.
Nadal however was more optimistic about his chances of breaking Sampras' record 14 Grand Slam titles.
One thing's for sure - these two will meet again soon enough.
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