Federer wins… again

Roger Federer took out Marin Cilic in a straight set, somewhat anticlimactic final to win his 8^th Wimbledon, his second major title of the year, and his 19^th career major title.   This was something of a “deer in the headlights” match for Cilic. 

This match was decided in the first set, when Federer broke first and served it out.  In second set, with Federer already up 3-0, Cilic called for the trainer and doctor for treatment during the changeover.  They did not minister to him in any way, but Cilic broke down in tears and draped a towel over his head.  Cilic may have had some physical problem (he fell on a point at 2-2 in the first set), but the issue seemed more emotional, as Cilic seemed to realize, and, unfortunately for the fans, accept the fact that he could not beat Federer.  More tears were shed by Federer after the win, as he realized what he had accomplished.

At this point it’s worth considering whether Federer might be one of the greatest athletes of all time in any sport.  No, he is not as big and strong as Muhammad Ali, Jim Brown or Wilt Chamberlain; no, he never won the Olympic decathlon or broke the world record in the 100 meter dash; no, he never bench pressed more than 500 pounds.  However, in all sports, it is a combination of physical ability and mental stability that leads to success.  When Federer plays, the message he sends is “I love tennis”.  His mental approach to a sport with no active coaching permitted and the obstacles posed by the court and a thinking adversary is one of realism, calm, and indeed, joy at simply playing.  These attributes lead not only to unparalleled success, but to a demonstration of the beauty of sport that few athletes have ever provided.   When he won, Roger thanked his team, the tournament administrators and the fans.  But it is they who should be thanking him for providing the spectacle of legendary greatness in real time.