Novak Djokovic beating Rafa Nadal 10-8 in the fifth set of 2018 Wimbledon semi was replayed last night by Tennis Channel and it was actually more fascinating to see it eight years later than live!
I have more appreciation seeing this fight to the death rivalry between the two greatest champions of tennis history, in an all out brawl to knockout the other.
The points were beyond comprehension, particularly two 21 shot rallies, both players striking some of the best forehands, backhands you will ever see in your life.
Djokovic was more composed and assured in his demeanor while Nadal had a more stressed and uncomfortable aura energy, as Djokovic was slightly superior and he served first so Nadal was always hanging on to survive in his service games.
At the end, Djokovic managed to slay the bull. All the points seemed to be vicious mini-slugfests, determined by an inch or two by the lines or net cord.
When it was finally over, what stood out was the reaction of Djokovic’s wife Jelena, who clapped an cheered and was also caught on camera shaking her head in disbelief at what she had just witnessed. She also hugged the physio guy Badio in a long embrace, as if they both were not only elated about the successful result but also relieved to survive the Nadal onslaught which was without a doubt the very best tennis he could possibly produce.
Today’s big rivalry seems boring in comparison. I love to watch Grand Slam but Carlos and Sinner lacks the soul, ego, grudge and personal conflicts which fueled the Djokovic vs Rafa rivalry.
The Djokovic vs Federer Nadal rivalry appears to be impossible to exceed, at least in this current er with the outstanding but predictable personalities that rule the roost.
Novak Djokovic · Rafael Nadal · Wimbledon
