Even though Roger is still ranked #1, isn't it clear from today's match that Rafa is now the superior player?

Question

I mean, he clearly outplayed Roger on Roger's best surface.

If he hadn't gotten a case of the nerves in the 4th set tiebreak it wouldn't have even gone five sets.

Doesn't today's result signal a changing of the guard?

Answer 1

I am also a Nadal fan. But federer is still much superior of the two when it comes to grass. I watched the finals it was clear that federer is already tired during the 5th set. This gave the nadal the advantage because of his better stamina.

I still think that nadal should develop more his grass court game. He should attack the net more. Do more volleys to shorten the points and not resort to long rallies. He should improve his serve by attempting more aces as possible to get cheaper points so that he will be energy efficient and not get wasted when the US hardcourt season comes.

Answer 2

just a matter of time , nadal will take over from federer

Answer 3

Obviously you jest.

Answer 4

i think the changing of the guard as this year progresses and next year progresses we will see federer, nadal fighting over the no1 spot on a regular occurrence then players like djokovic and murray who im guessing will be 3 and 4 will be trying to get in on the act. If gasquet remains fit and plays regularly and get the results it would be a extremely exciting and individual top 5 that all will be close when it comes to winning majors ,except for gasquet the others are good on all surfaces.

But don't rule out roger yet, coz the only thing that has changed is he has some competition now, players that can challenge him and from looking at the way he played today there is still alot left of him in the tank. In previous years, when roger was dominating he was a generation ahead but now he's met the next generation of players who can do the same things in their own unique way to opponents as he can.

so it is a very exciting moment for tennis. I believe this years us open will be a very good example of what im talking about .

Answer 5

Even though I am a big Nadal fan, it doesn't necessarily mean he is better. It was a very close match and to me it was anyone's game. It was one of the first times I have seen a match and actually didn't know who was going to win.

Greatest match I have ever seen.

Congrats Rafa on Wimbledon title