Set 1: Nadal 7-5, 80 minutes
In the first set, play went back and forth as both players got into a rhythm. Nadal served well, and Djokovic missed on some returns. The first set lasted only two minutes less than the entire women's final. A little premonition of things to come.
Set 2: Djokovic 6-4, 66 minutes
Nadal rallied by saving three set points in two different games to come within 4-5, but choked on his 40-15 advantage and doubled-faulted to end the set. The momentum began to swing Djokovic's way.
Set 3: Djokovic 6-2, 45 minutes
Djokovic dominated Nadal on his serves in the third set. Nadal tried to play defensively, but Djokovic took advantage. The set was never really in doubt.
Set 4: Nadal 7-6, 88 minutes
Everything seems to be going Djokovic way as he is up 4-3, but Nadal refuses to quit. With the aid of the crowd and a ten-minute rain delay, Nadal battles back. After he wins the set, he falls to his knees in triumph, but this match isn't over yet.
Set 5: Djokovic 7-5, 74 minutes
Djokovic's body seemed to be breaking down throughout the set, but a crucial backhand miss by Nadal breathed new life into him. Despite the exhaustion both must have been experiencing, the two go on a 32-shot rally. Nadal wins the battle, and Djokovic collapses on the court. However, Djokovic rises to his feet and appears to have one more push left in him. Nadal returns one into the net to make it 6-5 Djokovic. From there, Djokovic takes care of business and buries the winner.
This match, lasting a total of 5 hours and 53 minutes, might be one of the greatest of all-time. The win gave Djokovic his fourth Grand Slam win in the last five. The loss dealt Nadal his third consecutive major final defeat. This is the type of match the sport of tennis needs. If you didn't get to watch it, I would encourage you to watch a replay or at least the highlights. This was a battle for the ages. It was won by the best player in the sport right now, Novak Djokovic.
No comments:
Post a Comment