Making history

(This post is a week late.)

Rafael Nadal made history by being the first Spaniard to win the Australian Open by beating Roger Federer in 5 sets, 7-5 3-6 7-6(3) 3-6 6-2 in last week's finals. Not only did Rafa make history by setting a new record, he also made history by making his archrival, Roger Federer cry. Yup, if there was one man who reduced Roger to tears, IT WAS RAFA!


I was overjoyed when Rafa captured his first hard-court grand slam. I couldn't stop myself from screaming and jumping. But seeing Federer hurt and crying, I felt sorry for him. He didn't hold back his feelings and was brave enough to let the whole world see him in tears. Now, there's one more reason for people to admire him.


But then again, if you're a true-to-the-bone Rafa fanatic and anti-Federer, you couldn't help but feel mighty proud that the Spaniard has the superior advantage in their head-to-head meetings. It's his 13th victory in 19 meetings and his fifth over the Swiss in seven meetings in Grand Slam finals. Five out of seven in Grand Slam finals?!? Now, who's THE MAN?!? Whatever the FEDex fans say, Rafa fanatics will never lose if they stick to that argument. In fact, even Rafael Nadal can use that bit of info to emphasize his bragging rights. But he just won't!

Jessica Zafra was right on the mark when she said in her PhilStar column yesterday that, "The only person with gloating rights is Rafa, and he is too nice." One hundred percent true! During the awarding ceremony, Rafa was of those who applauded Federer and looked almost sheepish and apologetic when he came up on stage. He took the trophy quietly, held it up very briefly, and then went to put his arm around Roger and consoled him. That was truly one for the books.




I am looking forward to more moments like these. More excellent matches, more quality tennnis. One Grand Slam up, three more to go! Next stop is the Roland Garros which will run from May 24th to June 7th. For tennis fans like me, I cannot wait! But for the meantime, I will just content myself with major tournaments first. And oh yeah, cherish these photos. :)




***Acknowledgement***
Thanks to the Australian Open site for the pictures.