French Open Recap

I had previously predicted a Nadal/Federer final with Nadal prevailing in 4 sets. I got the victor right, but not the victim. In yesterday's final, Nadal looked more like the 19-year-old that dominated the French Open field in winning his first major back in 2005. Soderling was rattled and couldn't serve consistently or pressure Nadal with his heavy forehand. Other than a couple "are you kidding me?" points by Nadal, there wasn't much else to focus on other than Nadal's $525,000 watch. Nadal isn't a flashy guy at all, so this is a somewhat surprising display by him. Apparently he signed an endorsement deal with the watchmaker - Richard Mille. This watch is one of the lightest in the world with a titanium casing and a precision tourbillon that will keep proper time even when Rafa is playing like a human backboard. I guess if someone is willing to pay you to wear a $525,000 watch, then why not? There are only 50 in the world, so hopefully Rafa will be careful on the Paris Metro.

More importantly, I think yesterday proved that Nadal is back to his 2008 form. Roger Federer must be having nightmares thinking about the grass court season. Nadal is now slimmer, and last year's injuries were a wake-up call. He now understands the need to make adjustments to his game so he doesn't wear out by the age of 25. Nadal is going to serve more aggressively and hit flatter ground strokes in the grass and hard court seasons. Bjorn Borg is giving into the reality that Nadal will break his French Open record of 6 titles. And Federer knows that Nadal is back.

Right now the game of tennis has two of its greatest players in their primes (albeit Roger is probably just past his peak). This is the equivalent of Sampras/Agassi. Nadal has 7 majors at the age of 24. Federer won his 7th major at the age of 24 (2006 Australian). I don't think Rafa can threaten Roger's 16 titles, but I think he will get to double digits. Yesterday Rafa tied McEnroe and Wilander with his 7th major. With his next major, he will tie Lendl, Agassi, and Connors. I don't think Federer will ever beat Nadal in the final of a major. Mentally he is so rattled (i.e. 2009 Australian). The Wimbledon final has the potential to be the second-greatest match ever after the 2008 final. I can't wait.