Yet another time Nadal has beaten Federer in the finals of a grand slam. And this time its the Australian open, the first grand slam of the year. With this Nadal wins the his first grand slam on hard court, and his 6th overall [4 in rolland garros, 1 wimbledon]. Had Federer managed to win this one, he would have equaled Pete Sampras's record of 14 Grand Slams, a record which has eluded the swiss for a while now. Last year, in July, it was Wimbledon when Federer eyed to equal the record, and it was Nadal again who came in between, and won his first title on grass. By beating Federer in Wimbledon, Nadal had already replaced Roger Federer from the top rank. And this win has done nothing but announced that he is here to stay at the top, at least for a while.
Coming back to today's match, it was a contest between two great players, of contrasting styles. I am sure both of them, Nadal and Federer have already been listed among the all time greats who ever played the game. But it was Nadal's power and his improved serve that won the day for him. Federer was clearly seen wary, and under pressure. Nadal brole the first game of the match which Federer served, which was evidence to the fact that Federer was under pressure. But he came back strongly and showed great play off his forehand. But it was Nadal who made fewer mistakes and finally won in the fifth set, only second time in the history of australian open that a final has gone till fifth set.
I was watching the match, hoping that the swiss will win, but it was not to be. Although Nadal was a bit tired after his win in the semis over compatriot Verdasco (two days back, a game which lasted more than 5 hours), he played superbly. No doubt he is at the top of his abilities, both physical and mental. Without which you cannot beat a champion like Federer.
I think Federer has lot to do in the coming grand slams.
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