Number One in the World

What a week for tennis lovers. The much anticipatedAndy Roddick played his heart out and was nearly
match between two tennis greats, Roger Federer andwithout error until the miss on a forehand nearly four
Andy Roddick took place at Wimbleton on Sunday.and a half hours into the match. We haven't seen the
For both, there was a lot at stake, but perhapslast of this intensely talented player.
especially for Roger Federer who undoubtedly spentMeanwhile in the crowd, legendary Pete Sampras
the whole year leading up to this showdown with a bitwatched as his title was snatched by the tenacious
of a cloud over his head. It was exactly a year earlierFederer. Ever the gentlemen, he conceded with style,
that he left the same venue in defeat having his titlecalled Federer a "stud" and indicated that he felt
and exalted status in the tennis world stripped away.Federer deserved the distinction of being the best
Losing can be a great motivator and in Federer's case,ever. That is quite a compliment coming from
one has to believe it fed his hunger to recapture thesomeone of his professional stature.
coveted honor of being number one.They say that records are meant to be broken and it's
The win marked Federer's fifteenth Grand Slam titledefinitely a sign of continued progress when individuals
as he went on to claim the trophy and the adulation ofexcel to the next level and yet it's always hard to see
tennis enthusiasts the world over. It was a feat thatour favorites fall from their esteemed positions of
broke the record he shared with tennis great Peteexcellence. As with the culmination of all great events,
Sampras. Federer's dynamic style and immensethere is a bit of a let-down when the "big one" is over
power are mesmerizing to witness and those whoand a year will have to pass before it plays out again
were in the stands for this record breaking event nobetween two ultra gifted and talented players. We all
doubt had some lifelong memories to take home.have something special to look forward to.