Upstaged?

Now, the inevitable is out. Nadal has upstaged Federer to the top spot in International Tennis. One of the most formidable forces ever has been dethroned. By August 18th the rankings will change and the new Emperor will be crowned officially.

Recently, after his loss to big serving Karlovic in Cincinnati, Federer said, “I don’t care if Nadal or somebody else takes the No.1 spot. I just am focusing on Olympics in Beijing and the US Open, later this year. And then I will sit to analyze where my game is?”

Does this mean that Federer will not show any resilience in taking back his throne? This is the big question.

What, after his analysis of his game? Will he just play some select tournaments to collect at least 3 grand slams to become the highest collector of grand slam trophies? Will he try even harder to win the French Open, the one missing link in his career so far? Will he become what he was till the last yearend, winning everywhere and enchanting the crowds with his grace and unimaginable talent? OR will he start a new rivalry with Nadal, dethroning him from his Numero Uno position at the earliest chance he gets?

It will always be a sight for divinity to see him in full flow on a tennis court and none would really wish him to bid adieu to the game as Borg has predicted Federer might do after his defeat at Wimbledon this year. And I am no different from any of the normal human beings who would love to experience divinity.

The central figure

Come Sunday, history is going to be rewritten on Wimbledon center court. History beckons both Federer and Nadal. One might break the record, long held by Borg, of 5 consecutive Wimbledon championships and one might equal the record, once again, long held by Borg, of winning French Open and Wimbledon titles in the same year. Whichever way the championship ends, Borg is the central figure who shares the limelight along with the winner.

Any match between Federer and Nadal is sure to tap high voltage tennis, matching the expectations of the crowd. And this match on Sunday on the Wimbledon center court will have all the ingredients that mark any fierce contest. Roger, without dropping a set so far in the tournament looks good for a straight sixth and Rafael, playing like never before on his worst surface has lost only one set in the second round against Gulbis. The equations are pretty even.

Federer has won twice against Nadal in the previous years here on his best surface and Nadal is riding high with exceptional ability on the court and defeating Federer consistently, almost everywhere else in recent times, other than on grass. Considering a lot of factors, both stand an even chance of getting their hands around the coveted trophy.

It all boils down to one fact; who will handle the pressure better on that particular day. Though, as an after thought, Federer has a better chance of reigning supreme again here at Wimbledon, his second home. Fingers crossed, we need to see the fact unfold itself on Sunday.