Novak Djokovic, the second seeded Serb earned his title defeating the defending champion in a contest that required as much mental strength as physical prowess. His athleticism is unquestionable, but as much psychological discipline was required this afternoon.
6-4, 6-1, 1-6, 6-3 comprised a final of fluctuation, where nerves and energy levels were pushed to the limit over almost two and a half hours. It exhausts me just thinking about it.
Today was the first time Djokovic has defeated Nadal at Wimbledon in 4 years and, given that its taken him 20 matches, it may well be the start of a new era. It is a proud moment indeed for Serbia. Today Djokovic deprived his opponent of yet another final (the fourth this year) as well as the Number One ranking. In doing so, he has squeezed Federer from his spot too.
He proudly exclaimed it to be the best day of his life and one on which a dream has come true. But not without a fight, and a long journey to get here...
His strategy was impeccable, as he maintained intensity with unflinching concentration. In Nadal he certainly met his match and break points eluded both players until the tenth game.
The second set will be imprinted on the memories of many a fan. The tension was perceivable even via the television screen. The third game was perhaps the high point of the match, with truly fantastic shots, one after the other, before Djokovic brought it to a close with an ace, to go 3-0 up leaving Nadal and his fans standing aghast. He had a mountain to climb, similar to that which he faced in Paris, at the start of defending his French Open title. Here on the grass that has survived the tournament rather well this year, the incline he was facing seemed even steeper. Finally, Nadal got a break, and Spain breathed a sigh of relief - in the second game of the third set, an hour and 25 minutes into the match.
A few minutes later, and he had redeemed himself. The odds were each way. As the roof was rolled back, to improve the light conditions, Djokovic handed his luck to Nadal, but quickly snatched it back: Rafa double-faulted for the first time, and then hit long to drop serve, leaving Djokovic to serve for the match at 5-3 which ended with Nadal's last shot going long. Djokovic has now beaten Nadal 5 times in 2011. No other player has ever beaten Nadal more than 3 times in a calendar year.
This afternoon represented a real battle of wills, culminating in survival of the fittest. This year, these two finalists have separated themselves from the crowd, to become the two best players in the world. They are at the top of the game, and what a game it is...
Today, Djokovic was always going to take over from Nadal as the world No. 1, but this afternoon he snatched the icing on the cake, 'and the cherry on the top'. Wimbledon really does stand apart from other grand slams. That silver plate dominates the dreams of many, but is lifted by only the finest in the sport.
Novac Djokovic
born 22 May 1987
home Belgrade, Serbia
height 6' 2"
plays right handed
turned pro 2003
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